Guyana Times - Sunday, January 28, 2024.pdf

Guyanese entrepreneurs to participate in fellowship P31 programme in US Nationwide coverage coverage from from the the best best news news team team in in Guyana Guyana Nationwide Issue No. 5625 guyanatimesgy.com

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024

Africa Prosperity Dialogues

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Untapped trade opportunities exist between Africa & Caribbean, but barriers must be addressed – President Ali ...points out 0.1% of African exports destined for Caribbean countries as of 2020 See story on page 3

Guyana’s rice production expected to increase to 710,000 MT in 2024 P27

UG launches robust gender policy to P22 advance equity, equality & nondiscrimination

Body of P31 fisherman found floating in Berbice canal

Acting President Gail Teixeira being welcomed by Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr Amit Shivkumar Telang at a reception to observe India’s 75th Republic Anniversary on Friday evening at the Pegasus Hotel

Global African Leadership Award

18 families P33 receive keys to new 2-bedroom homes in Lethem – 85 identified house lots at Poke Bridge Housing Scheme

African bodies laud Pres Ali’s visionary leadership, commitment to nation-building Gas-to-Energy Project on Black box from crashed Bill tabled toP increase oil track for 2025 completion GDF helicopter yet to be money draw... as $80B allocated for – PM Phillips project in Budget 2024 examined in US – GCAA Head down from NRF Page 7

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15 Judges, 10 Magistrates to be appointed this year – AG Nandlall

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

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COMMODITIES Indicators

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Untapped trade opportunities exist between Africa & Caribbean, but barriers must be addressed – President Ali

…points out 0.1% of African exports destined for Caribbean countries as of 2020

By Rupa Seenaraine

Sunny conditions are expected during the day, interrupted by light rain showers in the midafternoon hours. Clear skies are expected at night.

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

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Africa Prosperity Dialogues

USD Per Ounce $2018.80 $2015.40 -1.10

$2019.80 $2028.60 -0.05%

W

ith the potential for massive trade between Africa and the Caribbean region, President Dr Irfaan Ali has called for the current trade barriers and regulations to be addressed to capitalise on this latent prospect.

Speaking at the Africa Prosperity Dialogues 2024 in Ghana on Saturday, President Ali – who is also the sitting Caricom Chair – highlighted that less than 0.1 per cent of African exports is destined for Caribbean countries as of 2020 and the share of exports into the Region from Africa recorded a downward trend since 2015.

The share of exports from the Caribbean to Africa also showed a similar trend since 2015. Trade between Africa and the Caribbean is highly concentrated around primary minerals.

However, bolstering these numbers would mean fixing the existing bugbears which hamper trade relations.

“These are things that we need to fix. The opportunities are there for massive increases in the trade between Africa and the Caribbean. We have to fix the trade barriers and the issues of transport and logistics. We have to fix the rules between ourselves that will help to stimulate trade and advance trade between our countries,” he said.

According to the Guyanese Head of State, such advancements can tie into the bigger picture of achieving food security and other critical targets. He added that the competitive advantage which Guyana brought coupled with the experience of African countries could result in a superior partnership.

“You may say our population is very small, but what we give to Africa and investors is access to a market of over 400 million people in which we have trade arrangements and trade agreements.

The size of the aquaculture market in the US alone is US$4 billion and Guyana is among the competitive countries when it comes to aquaculture and the production of fish products.

“You have the know-how.

You have the technology. We have the land. We have the competitive advantage. What if we merged? And for us to do this, we have to think outside of the box,” Dr Ali remarked.

Countries were urged to explore building a winning culture, adapt to changing business environments, investing in ideas and breaking traditional grounds. With these insights, leaders were encouraged to work vigorously in placing Africa on the global front while simultaneously focusing on resilience, sustainability, and competitiveness.

“We must show to the world that we can produce the best system of governance, we can produce democratic societies, and that we can stand at all times on the side of the rule of law. That will allow us to demonstrate that we’re serious about ensuring that Africa is resilient, sustainable, and competitive,” Dr Ali declared.

Technology, artificial intelligence, digitisation, and robotics will be the challenges of the future, he asserted, which requires investments in infrastructure and institutions to confront these.

“We cannot speak about prosperity if we do not start addressing these issues now.

We have seen already; we’re always playing the catch-up game. When we the world went ahead with industrialisation, we were catching up to be competitive. Now the world is heading apace with digitisation,” he stressed before the forum.

On the issue of integration, the Caricom Chair insisted that it was not a fixed destination, but rather an ongoing and evolving process. He added that issues of Foreign Direct Investment and economic sovereignty should be high on the agenda.

Ali said, “Integration demands time, patience, and a ceaseless commitment in nurturing a collaborative framework. Understanding that the benefits of integration may not manifest instantly but rather over time helps manage expectations and underscores the need for perseverance in realising the long-term dividends of such endeavours.”

Some 55 countries in Africa have proven natural gas reserves while the continent sports 40 per cent of the world’s gold; 60 per cent of arable lands; 90 per cent of chromium and platinum, and the largest reserve of diamond and uranium.

Ali contended, “How are we going to deploy this to

President Dr Irfaan Ali at the 2024 Prosperity Dialogues in Ghana

solve the global issues surrounding climate security, energy security, food security, and human transformation? We have been blessed in this region with the natural assets to provide the solutions…What is required is a commitment to action, meeting targets and staying on track with the targets we set.”

Fearless leadership

President Ali also lauded Africa’s leadership in supporting the right side of humanity in the current Israel-Palestine conflict, and more particularly, Guyana, during Venezuela’s recent acts of aggression.

“Africa has been a place of fearless leadership. Recently, South Africa reminded us that Africa remains a place where fearless leaders exist, always standing up on the right side of things and humanity…My own country experienced recently, the resounding support of Africa’s leadership at the UN Security Council when we came under threat,” Dr Ali noted.

Last December, South Africa instituted proceedings against Israel before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in what is

called the Application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in the Gaza Strip.

South Africa's submission alleged that Israel has committed, and is committing, genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, in violation of the Genocide Convention.

This week, the ICJ ordered Israel to “take effective measures to prevent the destruction and ensure the preservation of evidence related to allegations of” genocidal acts against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

In building out the institutional and structural arrangement of the local budding oil and gas sector, Ali lauded the support from the Ghanaian Government in crafting a solid local content framework.

“In Guyana, for example, we are a new kid on the block about oil and gas. We understand how economic sovereignty is important for us.

That is why we wanted to enact legislation that ensures local content and local participation. Of course, there were many offers, but we came to Ghana and we got the best possible legislation with the support from Ghana.”

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guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024

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

Abjure election violence

U

nfortunately for Guyana, our politics is not your ordinary garden variety type, wherein politicians pitch their plans for the development of the country to an open-minded electorate, which makes their voting decision based on an assessment of these plans and the parties’ capabilities for executing the same, based on their histories. In Guyana, the genie of ethnically-directed political violence was let out of the bottle as far back as on February 16, 1962 by the PNC and other forces, and it has never since been put back.

On that fateful day, subsequently dubbed “Black Friday”, following months of protests in Georgetown by thousands of supporters of the Opposition PNC and UF, ostensibly against the PPP’s budget; after failing to attack that party’s HQ, they started to loot and burn business places owned

by Indian Guyanese. They focused on Robb, Regent, Water, High and Camp streets, and Stabroek Market. Before they were finished, fifty-six buildings had been destroyed by fire, twenty-one damaged; sixty-six both damaged and looted; twenty-nine market stalls damaged, and five cars burned.

Hundreds of Indian Guyanese were beaten, one Police officer and four looters were killed.

Black Friday 1962 pretty much created the template for all subsequent political riots – confined to Georgetown and executed by the PNC’s support and direction of urban lumpen elements. The Wynn Parry Commission noted in its sanitised report: “The rioters were not drawn from any one particular race or political party, nor where the victims from one particular class. The looters belonged to the category of irresponsible individuals consisting for the most of hooligans and criminals, who in moments of excitement and mass hysteria throw away the inhibitions of a civilised society and seize the opportunity of preying upon their fellow citizens.”

Because the PNC were to rig all elections between 1964 and 1985, the directed political riot did not rear its head until 1992, with the return of free and fair elections. That does not mean there was no political violence, but those acts were meted out to opponents of the PNC by the state’s coercive apparatus -- organised pro-government goons such as the House of Israel -- disrupting political meetings.

In 1992, the incipient violent protests were not allowed to spread beyond an attack on elections HQ, after it became apparent that the PNC was losing the elections. However, President Carter, whose Center was observing the elections, was caught in the mayhem, and made a call to the White House. PNC leader Desmond Hoyte was persuaded to call out the army.

After losing the following 1997 elections, the same Desmond Hoyte reverted to the 1962 template, and launched violent protests in Georgetown that resulted in the same arson and lootings, accompanied by beatings of Indian Guyanese perceived to be supporters of the PPP. The PPP’s term of office was truncated by two years, and a raft of constitutional changes were enacted to give the Opposition PNC a greater input into the political system.

But rather than dampening the violence, Hoyte launched a “slow fyah; mo fyah” strategy that escalated the protests beyond Georgetown and exacerbated both their intensity and volume. This political violence was then ratcheted up to a level never encountered in Guyana: a band of hardcore prison escapees in 2002 ensconced themselves in Buxton, from where they launched attacks on Policemen and neighbouring Indian-dominated villages. They called themselves “Freedom Fighters” for African Guyanese, which meant they were pursuing a political agenda by attacking innocent citizens judged to be supporters of the PPP Government. This gang was not eliminated until 2008, by which time hundreds of persons had been killed by the security forces and armed vigilante gangs dubbed “Phantom Squads”.

It is against this background that we condemn the coded language of PNC Leader Aubrey Norton last week at Burnham Court: “When we finish beating (the PPP), we gon got to take them on. Look, every day they produce a security company; every day a security company. But they must remember, that merely having guns does not guarantee you victory. He who can handle the gun is in a better position.”

President Dr Irfaan Ali and several leaders received the prestigious Global African Leadership Award on Friday evening in Accra, Ghana for their transformational leadership in Guyana. Also in the photo are First Lady Arya Ali and other officials (Office of the President FB page)

Shameful demand by racist organisations for recall of global award to Pres Ali

Dear Editor, The Ghanaian people are celebrating a great Guyanese son for the transformational leadership he has shown for Guyana, and as a voice for the developing countries. President Irfaan Ali carries on the tradition of PPP presidents being globally recognized for their leadership on the global social justice agenda.

The Ghanian-headquartered African Prosperity Network (APN) has awarded its 2024 Global Africa Leadership Award to President Irfaan Ali. The vast majority of Guyanese have greeted the news of the award with pride. But, inevitably, there will be dissidents, even if the dissidents are a small group of bitter Guyanese, infected with the virus of racism.

Eleven organizations that claim to represent AfroGuyanese have demanded that APN withdraw the award they have honoured President Ali with. Those who oppose the award to President Ali include PNC leaders Hamilton Green and Vincent Alexander. They accused the APN of trying to curry-favour the President in the hope of gaining business benefits. Alexander further insulted the APN by referring to them as “some aliens from Ghana”. Such is their bitterness that Alexander even blamed the Ghanaians for slavery, insisting that ancestors in that country sold their countrymen into slavery. The dissidents’ shame knows no bounds.

Any time an Afro-Guyanese dared to show their independence, the organizations opposing the award to President Ali have deemed them “house slaves” and “soup drinkers”.

The dissidents now extend the same characterization to the Ghanaian President and his people, and to the entire APN. For decades, these people have huffed and puffed about racial discrimination by the PPP, al-

ways without an iota of evidence. More and more, their supporters are not just tired of the baseless and false allegations, they are now convinced that the PNC and its cohorts in organizations such as those demanding the recall of the Global Leadership Award are false prophets. Moreover, many AfroGuyanese who loyally voted for the PNC before are horrified and insulted that these charlatans take them for fools.

All eleven organizations claim to speak for AfroGuyanese, even though there is evidence that none of them speak for more than a handful of people. They claim ownership of every Afro-Guyanese, and will not tolerate any Afro-Guyanese not bending down in absolute fealty. But these barefaced people now essentially deem the Ghanaian people and the APN as house slaves and soup drinkers.

For these reprehensible organizations, it is a betrayal that the APN would honour an IndoGuyanese. It is from this prism that they do not object to subsidies which have rightfully been granted to the citizens living in Linden and Kwakwani for electricity, but they object to subsidies given to GUYSUCO. Linden and Kwakwani are mostly populated by Afro-Guyanese, while GUYSUCO workers are mostly Indo-Guyeanese.

While Hammie Green, Vincent Alexander, and the eleven organizations demanding recall of the APN Award to President Ali are recklessly promoting division among our people, they are checkmated by their own supporters, who reject their call. Just like their supporters rejected the PNCsponsored mysterious form of voodoo mathematics that 32 is more than 33 during Election 2020, those same supporters reject the PNC’s efforts to racialize ONE GUYANA. The dissidents cannot erase

the despicable history of the PNC in Guyana, and the racist agenda of many of the organizations they represent. It is not yet even two weeks since the Leader of the Opposition stated publicly that if given an opportunity to govern Guyana again, which he claimed will be soon, he would ensure that the PNCled Government fire all the PPP supporters. When the PNC and its leaders speak about PPP supporters, it is code word for IndoGuyanese. He claimed that the David Granger-led PNC made a mistake by not firing more of the PPP supporters between 2015 and 2020, even though thousands of PPP supporters, mainly Indo-Guyanese, were fired or forced to resign, or demoted during the terrible years of 2015 and 2020.

But Aubrey Norton is not the first to promise mass discrimination targeting PPP supporters. Please recall that in November 2018, after a massive defeat at the LGE 2018, Volda Lawrence had again stated publicly that she only had PNC friends and that the PNC must only employ PNC people.

These demands by senior leaders of the PNC are not concoction of wicked opponents.

Lawrence was caught on camera talking to a party group. In the case of Aubrey Norton, he was addressing a public meeting. The PNC’s policy has always been mass discrimination. When they closed sugar estates between 2016 and 2018, they targeted mainly IndoGuyanese they saw as PPP supporters, although they ended up also hurting some AfroGuyanese. The Afro-Guyanese that were affected by the malicious action targeting IndoGuyanese were collateral damage in the books of PNC. One of the then Vice Presidents, Khemraj Ramjattan, admitted in Parliament that the action was directed at PPP supporters.

But they also fired more

than 2,000 Amerindian CSOs (Community Service Officers).

Even though the PNC has consistently accused the PPP of discrimination, they depend entirely on hearsay anecdotal arguments. They claimed that AfroGuyanese who were Permanent Secretaries (PSs) were fired by the Ali Government after he was sworn-in on August 2, 2020.

In 2015, the contracts of PSs were terminated by the PNC-led Government, with all but one of them replaced. When President Ali’s Government took over in 2020, several PSs were replaced by qualified Guyanese that reflect roughly the diversity of Guyana. While the PSs in the PNC-led APNU/AFC were almost exclusively AfroGuyanese, the new PS class today, slightly majority AfroGuyanese, is broadly reflecting Guyana’s ethnic diversity.

While most of the scholarships granted by the PNCled APNU/AFC Government to students during 2015 and 2020 were Afro-Guyanese and family and friends and even ministers, the more than 22,000 Guyanese awarded scholarships since August 2, 2020 reflect Guyana’s diversity. These are the facts, not some anecdotal story. It is why even organizations that are inclined to support the PNC are unable to publicly support the bogus claim of discrimination.

President Ali has visited every region, every sub-region in Guyana. He has visited communities that have never been visited by a president before.

Whether communities have traditionally voted for the PPP or for the PNC, President Ali has visited, some more than once.

In some communities, PNC-led activists have tried to intimidate people, but whether it is in Linden or Mocha or Hopetown, people invite and swarm President Ali. CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024

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

Asha Kissoon misrepresents facts by giving incomplete information T he Ministry of Health is aware that vast room for improvement in the public health sector presents us with real opportunities to serve our people and country better. Every day, we work to fix the weaknesses that exist, to reduce the challenges that health sectors around the world confront, and to improve the quality of care for our people. We are not oblivious to the fact that among the challenges we face are working conditions for health workers in Guyana.

As part of working conditions, health workers’ salaries and benefits are a prime consideration.

During the debate over Budget 2024, MP Asha Kissoon, who serves also as the Deputy Speaker, highlighted this challenge. The Ministry of Health under the PPP Government has always been conscious that aggressive efforts must be made to improve working conditions for health workers, including the remuneration for doctors, nurses, and other allied health workers, for example, medical technologists, pharmacists, etc. While the PPP Government has always been at the forefront of improving salaries and working conditions, the PPP has made even more stringent efforts since August 2020, when President Ali and Minister Frank Anthony, the Minister of Health, were sworn-in.

MP Kissoon alleges that doctors work 16, 24 and 26 hours straight, without overtime. This statement can be confirmed if the Hansard is examined. MP Kissoon, by telling only part of the story, is clearly misrepresenting the facts, which we hope is an oversight.

Unless there is a specific kind of emergency, such as the unfortunate Mahdia incident, we are not aware that doctors work on a routine basis 16, 24 and 26 hours straight and are not paid overtime. While it is true that some doctors are assigned to cover periods that might extend to 16, 24 and 26 hours straight, doctors are not physically present in the clinics or in the wards for those numbers of hours in our hospitals. MP Kissoon is obviously referring to on-call assignments. In the case of GPHC,

multiple doctors per department, often as many as 5 to 7, are assigned per department for on-call duties. In some regions, for logistical reasons, the doctors remain in the hospital compound but only respond to see a patient if called out. Because, in some settings, the doctor may live on campus, they are at home, and called if needed. At GPHC and several other hospitals, doctors are at home during on-calls.

On-call duties might be following a shift or on a doctor’s day-off. On-call means that doctors must make themselves available in case of an emergency need at the hospital. Doctors who are on call are paid a fixed sum, which presently is from $4,000 to $5,500 for an on-call assignment. This covers a period between 4.00 pm and 8.00 am. For most doctors on most of their on-call days, they are never called out. Even for a regular eighthour shift, many doctors are away from their place of work.

MP Kissoon’s address gave the impression that doctors are routinely requested to work beyond their shifts by physically being present and not being remunerated. This is not the case, and therefore MP Kissoon, who knows this as a fact, is deliberately misrepresenting the facts by not telling the whole story.

Where doctors must work with a physical presence beyond their shift, they are paid overtime at a rate of $2,000 per hour; or if it is in the ER department, between $2,700 to $4,500 per hour, depending on the level. Here, again, MP Kissoon is either unfamiliar with, or misrepresenting, the facts. It is true that, in some regions, the local administration might treat such physical presence for a whole or part shift, as multiple on-call assignments, or reduce the number of shifts a doctor does subsequently as compensation.

In 2023, overtime for clinical staff, including doctors, amounted to more than $25M per month at GPHC, compared to about $21M per month in 2022. In addition, for 2023, oncall payments averaged more than $23M per month. Ms. Kissoon should make herself familiar with the facts. If she needs such information, she

can easily access such information. The annual report of GPHC is a public document.

MP Kissoon herself is a health worker and a Ministry of Health doctor working in a health centre. The MP must know that the dozens of doctors who work in the primary health care system in health centres do not work beyond the regular working hours of the health centres. Although health centres are intended to be open between 8 am and 4.00 pm, many do not complete the whole shift. MP Kissoon will face a major challenge to convince the Guyanese public that health centres work 24 and 26 hours straight. We would like evidence that any doctor who is assigned to work in health centres physically is present for more than 8 hours per day. They also do not work on weekends.

We challenge MP Kissoon to present us with evidence that a doctor working beyond regular hours is not remunerated either with on-call or overtime payment or with a local arrangement.

With regard to doctor migration, MP Kissoon clearly is not familiar with the facts. It would be totally dishonest and false were we to insist that there is no migration of doctors. But Guyana has a dispensation at this time that is very different from the 1970s, 1980s and the 1990s when

migration of our doctors was above 90%. In those times, we depended almost entirely on a small band of Guyanese doctors supported by doctors from Cuba, the Philippines, and some other countries.

Gradually, since 2000, the number of doctors migrating has reduced. While there are still doctors who resign from the MOH and GPHC, most of them remain in the country in the private sector. Our dependency on international doctors has become negligible, and mostly revolves around doctors for certain specialist areas only.

In terms of specialist doctors, Guyana’s retention rate over the last decade is more than 95%.

In 2023, the MOH employed in the health sector 50 new doctors; the number of doctors who resigned numbered 25. This in no way represents a mass exodus. The vast majority of doctors who resigned from the MOH were reemployed at GPHC or remained in the country in the private sector. Most of them resigned not because of salaries, but because they wanted to pursue post-graduate studies at GPHC/UG or embark on post-graduate studies abroad in Canada, China, Cuba, Brazil, Russia, the UK, UWI, and other countries; or did not want reassignment to a hinterland region. If we ex-

Shameful demand by racist organisations...

It is no accident that communities that once voted almost 100% with the PNC are now calling President Ali their “Comrade President”. It is why more than 70% of the seats in LGE 2023 were won by the PPP. President Ali’s Government has invested everywhere. In five years under APNU/AFC, the PNC-led coalition built 29 streets, and virtually all in communities which represented their strongholds, communities which were largely majority Afro-Guyanese, in Region 5.

In just 2023 alone, President Ali’s Government has built 169 streets in the same region. In Region 10, a fortress for the PNC, a region that has been loyal to the PNC, and in which

Afro-Guyanese dominate, President Ali’s Government in 2024 is providing $5B to continue the electricity subsidy for the residents of Linden and Kwakwani.

The PNC-led APNU/ AFC Government had promised in Election 2015 to construct a new Wismar Bridge.

For five years, between 2015 and 2020, they vacillated, and only announced the construction of a three-lane bridge. But even that silly talk never materialised. It is President Ali’s Government that has started the construction of a four-lane Wismar Bridge. They closed a call center that provided jobs, and today President Ali’s Government has brought back those jobs. Linden is undergo-

ing an economic rebirth, courtesy of the PPP Government, following the PNC-instigated economic stagnation.

More Afro-Guyanese, as well as more Guyanese overall, are today benefiting from small business loans, scholarships, support for their children, support to meet catastrophic payments for illnesses such as kidney diseases through the dialysis subsidy program which grants $600,000 annually and which pays for all tests and medicines, bringing the subsidy to more than $1M annually. Every child, no matter what race or religion, or where they live or who their family voted for, more than 204,000 children in school, will receive $45,000 in 2024, a grant that was ruth-

FROM PAGE 4

lessly taken away from them by the PNC-led coalition in 2015.

Just in 2021, more AfroGuyanese got house lots from President Ali’s Government than they did between 2015 and 2020.

President Ali’s award in Africa is an award also for Guyana. ONE GUYANA is here to stay. The unity of 1953 was no mirage, but the dream was temporarily distracted. President Ali has relit the flame, and ONE GUYANA is our compass as we embrace UNITY in DIVERSITY. Congratulations, President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, our beloved President!

Sincerely, Dr Leslie Ramsammy

amine each region, the story will be similar. For example, in Region Six 20 doctors left the system in the last twenty months, with 8 being reassigned to other regions, one whose contract was not renewed, several on local or international post-graduate studies, with only 5 resignations, all of whom are presently working in the country.

MP Kissoon’s reference to health workers, especially doctors, migrating and indicating that salaries represent the main cause of migration is only giving part of the story.

MP Kissoon did not say that Guyana is one of the countries, developing and developed, in which migration affects the health system. Every single developing country has this problem. Global health

workers’ exodus to North America and Western Europe is a priority issue being addressed in forums at the UN and the WHO. The health workers’ exodus is especially chronic for nurses. Guyana has taken steps to address the nursing migration challenge.

Meaningful steps, even if they are not yet enough, have been made in improving health workers’ working conditions.

MP Kissoon failed, for instance, to mention that there were no designations beyond GMOs in the public service.

For that reason, senior doctors at the level of senior registrar and consultants were either employed by GPHC and assigned to the regional hospitals or were paid at GMO levels. These were adjusted in 2022, and now the MOH can employ doctors as registrars and consultants in the public health sector outside of GPHC with similar conditions as GPHC. Similar adjustments were made for nurses and other allied health workers.

Further adjustments were made in 2023, and more are due in 2024. For doctors, the adjustments have led to salary increases between $71,000 (interns) and $172,000 (consultants) per month.

MP Kissoon, even if she wanted to argue more must be done, and the MOH concurs, failed to acknowledge these meaningful steps, which include salary adjustments for doctors. We urge MPs to be fair and to represent the facts, not alternative facts (deliberate falsehoods) when they speak in Parliament.

MINISTRY OF HEALTH

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024

06:00 (Sign on) Jewanram Rel. Hour 07:00 Cartoons 08:00 Shekinah Ministry 08:30 Evening News (RB) 09:30 Anthony’s Old Is Gold 10:30 Cartoons 11:00 Prem’s Electrical Religious Program 11:30 Blippi Educational 12:00 Movie - Under the Boardwalk (2023) 13:30 Movie - Street Gang: How We Got to Sesame Street (2021) 15:30 Forged in fire 16:30 Payless Power Hour 17:30 The Healing Touch 18:00 Explained 18:30 Week-in-Review 19:00 Lucifer S6 E1 20:00 Arrow S5 E17 21:00 Riverdale S5 E15 22:00 Movie - The Best of Me (2014) 00:00 Sign off

6 FEATURE

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

H

aving, in 2024, discussed the prerequisite considerations associated with the adoption /acquisition of a new puppy as an addition to your family, let us turn our attention to ensuring that the puppy remains healthy during this period of its young life.

Over the following weeks, we will be discussing ailments which can befall our young acquisitions. We will address, inter alia, the following: * The names of the diseases. * The symptoms of the ailments. * What can be done to prevent the puppies from acquiring the ailments.

HELMINTHOSES (= WORM BURDENS) N.B: 1) Puppies are often born with worms, which they may have acquired when they were in their mothers’ wombs. It is for this reason that, if possible, pet caregivers should ensure from the source of the puppies (shel-

PUPPY AILMENTS ters, breeders, friends, etc.) that the mother dogs have been (routinely, if possible) dewormed prior to, and even during, pregnancy.

2) Also, you may have received the puppy when it is about six weeks of age. The newborn pup should receive its first deworming at 3 weeks of age. Please ask the person (giver/seller) or shelter management whether the pup was dewormed at three weeks of age. If not, your (the new owner’s) first treatment of the pup would be to have the pup dewormed – preferably by your veterinarian. You may recall I had mentioned, in a previous column dealing with the acquisition of a pet, that it would be wise to have identified the veterinarian who would be looking after your new companion animal now and as it evolves into adulthood. I dare say that this consideration is similar to that which obtains in human medicine.

desired effect of impacting on the worm infestation in the gut. It is for that reason that only the veterinarian will, from experience, advise how much dewormer (and which deworming) should be used relative to ensuring that the puppy would have a healthy life. A worm-infested pup will not grow well, and will be especially susceptible to the most common ailments.

fixation of the new puppy caregiver to deworm the puppy by himself or herself.

Bad idea. This propensity might have come down to us from our ancestors. So many myths and legends.

worm from a Roundworm.

The medication will consequently differ.

Some dewormers have been on the market for decades; no self-respecting worm will die from their ap-

Worms are not all the same, and do not have the same origin. And the dosage rates surely differ relative to size and breed, and age and frequency of dosage.

A tapeworm, for example, is a totally different

plication.

Tapeworms are obstinate beasts. It is not easy to get rid of them. It may take several attempts to remove these parasites permanently. Since tapeworms are associated with fleas,

3) There is perhaps the

it becomes quite an effort (a science) to ensure these worms are killed and unable to re-infect the pup/young adult/mature dog.

Some dewormers (especially the old ones) do not kill the worms; rather, they stun the worms, and then, during defecation (passing stool), the intestinal movement deposits the stunned but live worms into the environment. Left exposed to the heat of the sun, the worms will die. The last activity of these dying worms is to lay their eggs, and therefore contaminate the environment in the process. These eggs can be picked up by the puppy/young adult/mature dog – and the cycle begins all over again. That’s why your vet would insist that the environment to which the puppy is exposed must be kept

persistently clean by using tested and proven and safe environmental sanitizers.

4) I have mentioned (see 3 above) that one has to be knowledgeable and quite sure about the dosage rate of the worm medication (anthelminthic) used. Actually, many of the dewormers used are human medical products designed for children. Now, if, for the sake of argument, the dosage for a 50-pound child is five (5) mls of deworming liquid, then the caregiver might be tempted to administer one-half of a ml (0.5ml) to a 5-pound puppy. Well, that dosage of vermicide will not produce the

5) I find it important that I point out that many pup/ dog owners/breeders relate and implement the practice of removing a worm (or worms) from the pup’s/dog’s mouth. They feel (and boast) that they have dewormed the animal. Nothing can be further from the truth. The organism that they have removed from the animal’s mouth – with a needle, no less – is in effect just removing a migrating immature stage of the adult worm.

These stages in a worm’s (usually Roundworms) development actually actively bore through the intestinal wall, get into the bloodstream, and arrive in the lungs, from whence they are coughed up into the mouth. If you, as a caregiver, see (and remove) one “worm” from the mouth of your pet, you can be assured that several (even hundreds) worms are still in the animal’s body.

In a nutshell, what the

caregiver can garner from the above is that the deworming of a pet is an important (science based) intervention to promote the continuous well-being of the caregiver’s ward. Let the vet carry out the relevant treatment.

P.S. It has occurred to me that even before dealing with the specific puppy ailments, I should make some comments on the newborn animal and its relationship with its mother even before it is adopted/ purchased by the caregiver. Next week, therefore, we will address these subject matters before we return to the discussion on puppy ailments.

NEWS

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Global African Leadership Award

African bodies laud Pres Ali’s visionary leadership, commitment to nation-building P

resident Dr Irfaan Ali has been lauded for his visionary leadership and commitment to nation-building by several African bodies, following his acceptance of the Global African Leadership Award in Ghana on Friday.

In a statement, the Association of People of African Descent-Guyana (APAD) posited that the Head of State was deserving of such an honour.

“His commitment to building a better future for all Guyanese, including those of African descent, aligns perfectly with the Award's values and makes him a worthy honour on the global stage,” the organisation noted.

Since taking office, it was outlined, President Ali has consistently promoted inclusivity and national unity through his "One Guyana" initiative.

This framework emphasises non-discriminatory governance and actively seeks diverse perspectives for the nation's betterment.

“This reflects a clear commitment to addressing historical racial disparities and fostering a more equitable society…President Ali's actions have demonstrably benefited AfroGuyanese communities.

President Dr Irfaan Ali receiving the Global African Leadership Award in Ghana

Removing VAT from water, implementing vocational training programmes, offsetting subsidies in Region 10, and reversing past discriminatory taxes have directly improved the lives of many. These steps showcase a deliberate focus on addressing long-standing inequities,” it was recalled.

Moreover, the Head of State was recognised for consistently and vocally defending the African Diaspora at both the local and international level.

His advocacy for the recog-

nition of African contributions and fight for reparative justice demonstrate a deep understanding and commitment to African advancement, said APAD. “President Ali's achievements extend beyond racial boundaries…His dedication to improving living standards for all citizens further validates his "One Guyana" vision,” it noted.

Another organisation, the Afro-Guyanese Union, shared that the award was a significant milestone in recognising Guyanese

leadership on the global stage. The Union contended that the Guyanese leader’s tenure since 2020 has been marked by decisive transformational leadership, and under his guidance, Guyana has achieved unprecedented economic growth while conforming to the highest principles of human dignity and unity.

“His leadership has been characterised not only by domestic achievements but also by his stance on international issues, particularly his support for global

reparations and restorative justice. This support underscores his commitment to addressing historical injustices and promoting a fair and equitable world order.

This initiative is reflective of his broader vision of reconciliation and restoration, both within Guyana and in the larger context of global African communities.”

For the Association for Democracy and Human Rights, the prestigious accolade is a proud moment for every Guyanese.

Additionally, the award recognises President Ali's strong leadership on the Essequibo territorial controversy as a testament to his steadfastness and integrity.

“President Ali's leadership since taking up office in August 2020 has been nothing short of transformational, steering our nation to become the fastest-growing economy globally. His dedication to principles of equity and probity resonates deeply with … all Guyanese.

His vision of a unified 'One Guyana’, transcending racial and cultural divides, is particularly laudable, since his vision aligns with our goals of promoting cultural harmony and understanding.”

In his 2020 inaugural

address, President Ali introduced a “One Guyana” policy and governance framework that would underpin his presidency.

This initiative is geared towards inclusive, non-discriminatory governance as he had assured, “No government has all the answers. It is, therefore, my wish to benefit from the viewpoints of all, including our political parties, trade unions, workers, and social organisations. One Guyana is, therefore, a social contract of inclusion.”

As he accepted the Global African Leadership Award in the presence of Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo on Friday, Ali dedicated it to his ancestors who came to Guyana from Africa and fought valiantly for freedom and for the shackles of slavery to be broken.

“I want to say how pleased I am to be here and I accept this award on behalf of all our great ancestors who came from Africa and laid their bones on our shores in the name of freedom, just to realise human dignity and achieve freedom from the worst system the world has ever seen, and that is the system of slavery,” the President declared. (G-12)

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

After… …the Budget Debate W

ell, what do our parliamentarians do after budget debates?? Is it like after making love: they throw back and have a smoke?? Don’t scoff now, that ain’t too farfetched!! Did you see the two sides having a go at each other?? They were either making love or making war…so much sweat was expended!! Sure, some tempers got frayed, but that’s to be expected when so much is at stake, innit?? And trust your Eyewitness, it wasn’t just because the Opposition wanted to show how much they cared for the well-being of us, the Guyanese people. No Siree Bob!! This was an opportunity for all the wannabe PNC leaders to show why they should replace Aubrey, going forward!!

Poor Aubrey…he just can’t win, can he?? Well, he did win the leadership back in Dec 2020, didn’t he?? He’d been around for donkey years, but, for some reason, wasn’t even the bridesmaid - just the water boy. When he was made PNC Chair back in the day, Desmond Hoyte summarily banished him from the position. When questioned as to why, Hoyte said Norton was merely his “creature”. Not as in “The Creature from the Black Lagoon”, as many persons snickered, but he was the Leader’s appointee. But the “creature” label unfortunately stuck! Up to then, some had figured he woulda been groomed into Desmond Hoyte’s Hamilton Green - Burnham’s go-to thug du jour!!

Well, like Freddy Krueger, Norton kept coming back… and back. You remember him taking on Volda’s Lawrence for the Chairmanship of the Georgetown PNC branch in 2009 and being soundly whupped? He later showed up at the 2011 PNC Congress to run against David Granger for the Leadership role. That’s chutzpah! The man really saw himself as leadership material! So that’s why your Eyewitness is taken aback that he’s the invisible man now, when he finally became the leader and the PNC needs some direction.

But that’s the problem right there. In 2020, most PNC faithful felt Granger should’ve brazened it out and refused to concede the Mingo-rigged election. He wasn’t “tough enough”, and that’s where Aubrey came in. Just because he LOOKED rough and ready, everyone thought he was ready to rumble with the PPP in the streets!! They didn’t appreciate that Burnham used to get away with his rigging cause Cheddi was unacceptable to the greater powers that be!!

It wasn’t that Granger was chicken; he was realistic – and so, to everyone’s surprise, was Aubrey!! Refusing to shake Pressie’s hand was as truculent as he was gonna go!!

So, now some want him to go!!

So, did any of the wannabees show they’re ready to do better than Aubrey?? Sadly, no!! And this is a tragedy, cause we sorely need some real Opposition!! …the honour Say what you want about our young Pressie, he sure knows how to smooze with other world leaders, doesn’t he?? None of that stiff-upper-lip British tradition for him!! And it’s not just with other Caribbean leaders, like Mia Mottley or Ralph Gonsalves, but with King Charles.

Certainly NOT David Granger’s prostration when meeting Queen Elizabeth!! Anyhow, here was Pressie in Ghana, where it was like a home away from home kinda greeting, with his hands on the shoulder of his host!!

But Pressie broached a topic that isn’t usually flaunted over here – his religion. To demonstrate the Catholicity (!!) of our land of six peoples, he pointed out that as a member of the small Muslim Minority, he was yet elected president!! Ghana has almost 20% Muslims, but none of its presidents was from that group. While the first Muslims in Guyana were from Africa – from the Fula or Fulani tribe, which gave the local appellation “Fulaman” to our Muslims, not many of them were from Ghana. …the Joiner Schuman’s leaving politics to found a new 100% Guyanese Airline. He should make it the first 100% INDIGENOUS Airline – with all the stewards and stewardesses decked out in grass skirts – or less!! Let it ALL hang out!!

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

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

NEWS

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

15 Judges, 10 Magistrates to be appointed this year – AG Nandlall E fforts are currently underway for the appointment of Judges and Magistrates to fill vacant posts in the Judiciary, according to Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, during his presentation in the 2024 Budget debate.

According to Nandlall, the reconstitution of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) in July 2023 has paved the way for these critical judicial appointments to be made.

“Six Justices of Appeal will be appointed [and] nine Puisne Judges will be appointed to the High Court,” he stated.

In addition, two Commissioners of Title are expected to be recruited.

With regard to the magistracy, the Legal Affairs Minister noted that “10 Magistrates will be appointed, bringing the total magistrates to 29 and new posts have also been created to accommodate for the large intake of cases”.

One of these new posts that were created is that of Deputy Chief Magistrate.

The new JSC was appointed by President Dr Irfaan Ali on July 14, 2023.

The Commission mem-

bers are Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Justice Yonette CummingsEdwards; Chief Justice (ag), Roxane George; Chairman of the Public Service Commission (PSC), Manniram Prashad; Retired Justice Carl Singh and Retired Justice Beasraj Singh (BS) Roy. The Chancellor sits as Chairman of the Commission.

The JSC is a constitutional body responsible for handling matters related to the appointment, discipline, removal, and promotion of judicial officers, including Judges and Magistrates.

Following its appointment, the Commission late last year published vacancies to fill the personnel gaps within the Judiciary and magistracy.

Only earlier this month, Justice CummingsEdwards disclosed that the JSC had begun the interviews for these vacant positions.

“We are pleased to say that, after advertisements, the next step has been interviews. Interviews have been conducted. Interviews are for the position of Magistrates.

Interviews

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, SC

are going on again this month, and you will soon see appointments to various positions,” the acting Chancellor said while commenting on the recruitment process recently.

For the Supreme Court of Judicature, which consists of the High Courts in each of the three counties and the Court of Appeal, the JSC is looking to appoint Puisne Judges, Commissioners of Title (Land Court Judges), and a Deputy Registrar for the High Court in Berbice.

The Commission is

also looking to appoint Magistrates for the various magisterial districts.

The JSC was appointed last year after a sixyear hiatus, and the acting Chancellor said the Judiciary was “deeply grateful” to President Ali for reconvening this very important Commission to help the court in the discharge of its functions.

Since the reformation of the JSC, Justice Cummings-Edwards said, its members have been tackling the backlog in cases and staff matters.

“It is obvious that after an absence of the Commission, there would have been lots of outstanding work. The members have been working assiduously to build the secretariat and to create positions for the better functioning of the Judiciary,” she explained.

A Puisne Judge shall hold office until he/she attains 65 years, and the basic salary for this position is $1,425,065 monthly, along with allowances.

A Land Court Judge holds office until he/she reaches 55, and is paid $1,167,923 monthly, together with allowances.

A Magistrate shall hold office until he/she attains the age of 55. Salary and benefits include a total basic salary of $880,885 per month plus allowances.

The Deputy Registrar will remain in office until the age of 55. The position’s total base pay is $754,284 a month and also includes allowances.

Persons appointed will be required to serve a probationary period of at least six months. On satisfactory completion of the period of probation, the appointees will be confirmed.

Reports state that an additional advertisement will be made for Appeal Court Judges, of which there are now just three in office, despite the law providing for nine.

Given the small number of judicial officers and the growing workload, there had been rising calls for the JSC to be established before its official appointment.

This Commission is responsible for advising the President on the appointment of Judges, except the Chancellor and the Chief Justice. The JSC’s powers also include the power to remove and to exercise disciplinary control over persons holding or acting in the following offices: Commissioner of Title, Magistrate, Director of Public Prosecutions, Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, Registrar of the High Court, Deputy Registrar of the High Court, Registrar of Deeds and Deputy Registrar of Deeds, and to such offices connected with the courts or for appointment to which legal qualifications are required as may be prescribed by Parliament.

(G-8)

10 NEWS

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Black box from crashed GDF helicopter yet to be examined in US – GCAA Head D

irector General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Egbert Field, has disclosed that the black box which was retrieved from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) helicopter that crashed last month claiming the lives of five servicemen is yet to be examined by experts in the United States.

Last month, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill disclosed that the black box was handed over to US’s National Transportation and Safety Board (NTSB) for the retrieval of data to aid the ongoing investigation in ascertaining the circumstances that led to the tragic December 6, 2023 crash.

The incident claimed the lives of Brigadier (Retired) Gary Beaton; Lieutenant Colonel Michael Shahoud; Lieutenant Colonel Sean Welcome; Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles, and Sergeant Jason Khan.

Two soldiers survived the crash: Corporal Dwayne Jackson and Lieutenant Andio Crawford.

An accident and incident investigator has been appointed in the person of GCAA’s Airworthiness

Director General of the GCAA, Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Egbert Field

Inspector, Krishnanand Ramlachana, who is leading the probe. Ramlachana was the one who took the black box to the Washington DCbased NTSB last month.

“We’re still waiting on them [at NTSB] to schedule what time [and date] they will be either listening or reading the box...

They just put it in the queue and you wait for a response from them… So, the Chief Investigator would be following up with them,” the GCAA Head told Guyana Times.

Since the horrific incident, there have been talk regarding the extraction of the wreckage from the crash site. Based on reports, the helicopter suffered significant damage, particularly in

the fuselage, with only a few pieces remaining.

Asked whether there were any plans to do the extraction, Field explained to this newspaper that the Chief Investigator would have to make that decision.

“I don’t know. That will be a decision for the Chief Investigator to decide on. If he wants to visit the site or to have the chopper [brought out so that] …he has all the information, but he will make that decision,” the Director General stated.

In addition to the GCAA, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) is also conducting an investigation into the deadly crash while the GDF has also launched a Board of Inquiry, which is still ongo-

The victims of the crash are Brigadier (retd) Gary Beaton; Lieutenant Colonel Michael Shahoud; Lieutenant Colonel Sean Welcome; Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles, and Sergeant Jason Khan

ing.

On December 6, the Bell 412 helicopter, with registration 8R-AYA, left GDF Headquarters at Camp Ayanganna at 09:24h, and travelled 144 miles to Olive Creek, where it arrived at 10:27h. After refuelling, the helicopter departed at 10:58h for a 58-mile journey to Arau, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) near Guyana’s border with Venezuela.

Contact was lost with the aircraft, and an Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) alert was received about 11:19h.

The GDF had said the chopper was on a command trip to Arau, Macapa, and Eteringbang, as part of Guyana’s response to an

“imminent threat to our territory”. The specified helicopter possesses an unladen weight of 3207kg, an internal payload capacity of 2190kg, a maximum total weight of 5398kg, and a cargo hook capability of 2041kg.

The Bell 412 Epi helicopter also had a system designed to warn the pilot of obstacles ahead, enabling them to take evasive measures. However, it has been disclosed by the GDF that only the aircraft’s black box holds the potential to offer insights into this capability.

Lieutenant Crawford and Corporal Jackson were finally extracted from the crash site after two days and multiple thwarted attempts by the search-and-

rescue team to rescue them.

Adverse weather conditions in the mountains of Region Seven had posed a multitude of challenges for the survivors to be rescued.

Brigadier Beaton was the project engineer; Colonel Shahoud, an Attorney-atLaw, was Commander of the 1st Infantry Battalion; Lieutenant Colonel Charles was the pilot; Lieutenant Colonel Welcome was the Commanding Officer of the Reserve Battalion; and Staff Sergeant Khan was from the 31 Special Forces Squadron.

Guyana Times was reliably informed that the two surviving soldiers were yet to resume duty, but were still undergoing extensive counselling. (G-8)

NEWS

11

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Gas-to-Energy project on track for 2025 completion – PM Phillips ...as $80B allocated for project in Budget 2024

Venezuela’s grey zone, hybrid war

A

mong the agreements between Guyana and Venezuela contained in the Argyle Declaration was that they, “directly or indirectly, will not threaten or use force against one another in any circumstances (1)” and a Ravi Dev commitment to “peaceful coexistence (3)”. This has been widely understood to mean that “war” between our countries has been averted, and that the subsequent meetings of the Commission of the Foreign Ministers and their teams are meant to move relations towards cooperation in agreed areas.

This understanding, however, assumes a view of “force”, “war” and “peace” that has long been superseded among military establishments across the world – including Venezuela.

Rather than the old “absolute, kinetic wars”, today, these establishments discuss, prepare for, and engage in, “hybrid wars” - the use of a range of different methods to attack an enemy. These include political, diplomatic, economic, and financial initiatives and the spreading of propaganda, criminality, infiltration by fifth columnists, or attacking important computer systems. Technology has opened up new ways to conduct hybrid warfare. Hybrid wars are conducted in what are called “grey zones” – where all instruments of national power are leveraged to achieve the aggressor’s aims. Venezuela’s use of PetroCaribe’s debt write-offs made some of our fellow Caricom members not only undermine our diplomatic strength, but give succour to Maduro in a very personalized manner, that subverted decadeslong institution building.

In a word, hybrid wars strive to avoid Clausewitz’s kinetic war as “politics by other means” and embrace Sun Tzu’s Art of War, where the enemy can be conquered without necessarily fighting. The strength of the adversary is gradually sapped in the grey zone, as much energy is wasted to keep the war from getting kinetic. The premises of the hybrid war aggressor also become normalized over time, as we saw with Russia’s moves against Ukraine and other neighbours, including Georgia and now the Baltics.

I have been arguing that Maduro and Venezuela are conducting a hybrid war against us, and for them to keep their peace agreement, they have to retract their hybrid war salvoes in order to convert the grey zone into a zone of peace. Take, for instance, Venezuela’s refusal to accept the ICJ’s interpretation of the Geneva Agreement to assume jurisdiction over the border controversy. This cannot stand. We must expose this for what it is: an act of hybrid war by Venezuela that encouraged them to escalate their aggression to an announcement of their “annexation” of our entire Essequibo Region. If this was not an act of war, then what is? Maduro’s appointment of a Governor of the region with the “authority” to award or deny licences continues the normalization of Essequibo as Venezuela’s, so that the final physical occupation – as with Russia in Eastern Ukraine – becomes a fait accompli.

The Venezuelan people’s historic grievance of being taken advantage of by Britain was once again emotionally aroused after the Argyle Declaration by the exhumation of General Sifones’s body and his installation in the Venezuelan pantheon of heroes on par with Simon Bolivar for “expelling the British from the Cuyuni Basin. Maduro made it clear that this expulsion was to be extended in the present, and he left no doubt about the means to accomplish this with his mobilization of one-quarter of the conventional Venezuelan armed Forces to counter the visit of the 30-man HMS Trent.

Maduro’s actions illustrate how subversive war in the grey zone is to the international rules-based order. And our acceptance of the several acts of aggression against our national interests, such as discouraging FDI into Essequibo because of the “dispute”, as not “warfare” makes us complicit in their international brigandry. We can expect such actions to continue to escalate, until one day we will wake up, as Ukraine did, to have enemy forces occupying our Essequibo.

In a positive development, however, our Government has evidently accepted the need to buttress our security to possibly fight Venezuela’s grey zone war. This can be discerned in our acceptance of members of the US 1st Security Forces Assistance Brigade (SFAB) working with our GDF. The SFABs are a US Army innovation to deal with the reality of hybrid wars in the grey zone that used to be handled by their Special Operations Forces. They organize, train, equip and advise foreign security forces like ours to face threats by wannabe regional hegemons like Venezuela.

We again reiterate the need to establish a base in our Essequibo Region, to which our US ally can have access.

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

P

rime Minister Brigadier (retd) Mark Phillips has told the National Assembly that work on the Gas-to-Energy project is moving apace, and the project is on track for completion by the 2025 deadline.

Making his contribution during the Budget Debates on Friday, Phillips recounted the current activities and posited that the Gas-to-Energy Task Force is poised to maintain its steady progression of activities.

A whopping $80 billion has been budgeted in 2024 to advance this project and its associated infrastructure, including transmission and distribution upgrades to offtake the power.

“The Gas-to-Energy Task Force has made substantial progress in the integrated power plant and NGL facilities, with 6.8 per cent of site preparation already completed. Significant progress is also being made in the engineering

Prime Minister Mark Phillips making his presentation

and fabrication of steel turbines, gas turbines, and GSU transformers. Transmission lines and substation projects are progressing nicely, including completion of the land-clearing and geotechnical works at substation locations,” the PM detailed.

Phillips has dubbed the project one that would ease the burden of electricity costs on Guyanese, and has outlined Government’s commitment to improving the lives of

its citizens; which he said has continuously been done in the energy sector by stabilising electricity prices.

“This project is significant for all Guyanese because of the significant impact it will have: allowing for cheaper and more affordable electricity at approximately 50 per cent less cost when it is completed…I must add that there has not been an increase in the charge for electricity since what we were paying pre-COVID.

This is a people-centred, people-caring Government,” he declared.

It had previously been reported that the marine offloading facility has been completed and 26 kilometres (km) of onshore pipelines have been installed.

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

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

TURN TO PAGE 18

12 NEWS MoH to kick off filaria pill distribution exercise in 2nd quarter of 2024 SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

T

he Ministry of Health (MoH) is conducting preparatory works for the commencement of its Filaria Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaigns scheduled to commence in the second quarter of 2024.

The activity, which will play a crucial role in ensuring Guyana stays on course to eliminate filaria as a public health issue by 2026, will see several teams going house-to-house to distribute the medicine.

According to a report issued by the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) in 2022, approximately 500,000 Guyanese are at risk for the disease.

Additionally, a survey conducted by the Health Ministry revealed that nine of Guyana’s 10 administrative regions are endemic, especially Regions Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Four (DemeraraMahaica), Five (MahaicaBerbice) and 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

Through the Filaria MDA campaign, efforts will be made to have at least 70 per cent of the population consume ‘filaria pills’ – Diethylcarbamazine citrate (DEC), Albendazole (ALB)

National Coordinator of the Neglected Infectious Diseases Programme, Dr Annastacia Sampson

and Ivermectin (IVM) – to sterilise and kill the worms that cause the disease.

During MoH’s televised programme “Health Matters”, National Coordinator of the Neglected Infectious Diseases Programme, Dr Annastacia Sampson disclosed that the Ministry was currently acquiring the medicine and making other arrangements necessary to ensure the campaign was executed smoothly.

“We are currently in the planning phase of that activity, we’re recruiting personnel to fill the different positions such as Regional Coordinator, National Supervisors, Field Officers and pill distributors. So, we’re planning towards implementation of NDA 2024,”

Dr Sampson stated.

The general public is urged to monitor the Ministry’s Facebook page for release dates for their respective communities.

On this point, Dr Sampson reminded that the number of tablets varies per age, and would not be administered to pregnant women and children below the age of two.

Further, an individual requires five annual doses of the pills before they become immune to the mosquito-borne disease.

“If you are in your early stages the most common way of preventing it is by taking your filaria pills, this is recommended by the World Health Organisation as a preventative measure, to take your pills whenever there is filaria distribution within your area… and when we do have campaigns, you know our pill distributors, they walk about… they go door to door and even visit schools,” Dr Sampson related.

Filariasis

Filariasis is a tropical disease caused by parasitic worms that are spread through mosquito bites. The skin gets thick and hard,

Previous pill distribution exercise

resembling an elephant’s skin. Although medically known as lymphatic filariasis (LF), the term elephantiasis is commonly used because symptoms include swelling and enlargement of the arms and legs.

People living in affected tropical or subtropical areas are most at risk of infection.

However, short-term visitors to these regions have a very low risk of getting filaria or related conditions.

The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with PAHO launched the MDA campaign

in Guyana in 2017.

The countries of the Americas agreed to a collective approach to the elimination of communicable diseases throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. The Elimination Initiative identifies a wide range of diseases and related conditions, including lymphatic filariasis, as potential candidates for elimination in the Region, and enables countries to consolidate efforts and resources towards ending these diseases and ensuring public health.

Most people who are infected will not show symptoms, despite damage to the lymph system and kidneys.

Those who do get symptoms most commonly experience swelling of the legs, arms, breasts and genitals.

This disease is transmitted by mosquitoes and can be prevented by sleeping under a mosquito net, covering up skin with long sleeves and trousers, using insect repellent and participating in the MDA campaign by taking your filarial pills when visited by healthcare workers.

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

14 FEATURE

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Int’l Education Day

– A revised system is needed

ello again, and welcome!

As we drawn near to the month of February, we take this time to share with you the benefits and values of wetlands, and the need for conservation. Guyana will join the rest of the world on February 2nd to celebrate World Wetlands Day.

I

n today's dynamic and ever-changing world, the concept of lifelong learning has become increasingly vital. International Education Day 2024 serves as a poignant reminder of the immense contribution of individuals who, at various stages of their lives, have embraced the pursuit of knowledge and skills’ development.

In Guyana, today, what is needed is a ‘revised system’, as many past and present educators call for better curriculums. These very individuals see their endeavours not only as enriching lives, but as playing a significant role in the driving force of economic growth and societal advancement, and they would not trade it for any-

H

February 2 is World Wetlands Day

thing else.

International Education Day is observed on January 24 annually. This day was established by the United Nations General Assembly to recognize the importance of education worldwide and to promote the idea that education is a fundamental human right.

Guyana and the world observed International Education Day under the theme “learning for everlasting peace”. This publication took the opportunity to speak with some head teachers and past students, who shared their educational journey over the years, challenges faced, and how they are benefitting now.

Alison Lanferman, Head Teacher of St. Pius Primary

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What are wetlands?

According to the National Geographic Society, “A Wetland is an area of land that is either covered by water or saturated with water.

The water is often groundwater, seeping up from an aquifer or spring.

Wetland’s water can also come from a nearby river or lake.

Seawater can also create wetlands, especially in coastal areas that experience strong tides. A wetland is entirely covered by water at least part of the year. The depth and duration of this seasonal flooding varies.

Wetlands are transition zones. They are neither totally dry land nor totally underwater; they have characteristics of both”.

World Wetlands Day is observed annually on February 2nd, though it was not celebrated until 1997. This day serves to highlight the influence and positive production that wetlands have had on the world, and brings communities together for the benefit of Mother Nature. This day also raises global awareness of wetlands’ significant role, not only for people, but for the planet. Community protectors and environmental enthusiasts all come together on this day to celebrate their love for nature through celebration, which recognises what wetlands have done for not only humans, but all sorts of organisms in the world.

Threats

Over time, the world, more so human influence, has led to various ecological problems affecting wetlands. According to UNESCO, the threat to wetlands will have an adverse impact on 40% of the world’s flora and fauna that live or breed in wetlands. Overpopulation, pollution, erosion, climate change, just to list a few, have led to a decrease in environmental conservation of wetlands. Many wetlands are being lost, and we should recognise the dilemma before this natural filter and conserver of the world faces irreversible changes.

Wetlands in Guyana

The Demerara, Berbice and Essequibo rivers make up Guyana’s 3 main watersheds. these watersheds play a vital role in the environment that form our wetlands. Let us discuss a few of our wetlands.

Moruca:

The Moruka River, or Moruca River, is a river in the Barima-Waini region of northern Guyana. The mouth of the river opens to the Atlantic Ocean. Mangrove forests make up the shoreline, turning into swampy savannah wetlands as it moves west. The Moruka River’s water level varies dramatically, depending on the season. This savannah wetland is home to eleven (11) titled Indigenous communities. They all use the wetland areas for their daily livelihoods.

The North Rupununi

The North Rupununi Wetlands are a unique and highly diverse ecosystem that includes seasonally flooded forests, wetlands, and savannahs that are extremely important for the biodiversity and ecosystem services that they provide to local communities and the nation. The North Rupununi Wetlands system is one of the largest wetlands in Guyana. It encompasses an area of 22,000 hectares of periodically flooded savannah and forest. These Wetlands are dominated by the Rupununi, Rewa, and Essequibo Rivers, and include over 750 lakes, ponds and inlets.

Over 400 species of fish have been recorded in the area, leading to estimates of up to 600 species for the larger wetland system. This is the highest fish diversity in the world for areas of similar size. The wetlands are also home to Guyana’s endangered giants: the Arapaima (Arapaima gigas), Giant River Turtle (Podocnemis expansa), Black Caiman (Melanosuchus niger), and Giant Otter (Pteronura brasiliensis).

The Makushi nations depend heavily on the North Rupununi Wetlands to provide them with clean water, food, materials to make craft, housing materials, and traditional medicine. Their harvesting techniques are sustainable, and promote protection and conservation of these resources in the long-term.

The Coastal wetland:

The origin of the Mahaica wetland is difficult to trace, because its upper watersheds overlap with the lower watersheds of the Demerara and Berbice rivers. The river breaks off into smaller tributaries, making it seem “boundless.”

The river is a well-known bird-watching site, and over 150 species makes this area their home. It is also home to other wildlife, including river otters, howler monkeys, and the Canje Pheasant, Guyana’s national bird.

How can we protect our wetlands?

By reducing pollution; wetlands are sensitive to pollution, so it’s important to do the following: Reduce the number of pollutants that enter them. This can be done by properly disposing of hazardous waste, using environmentallyfriendly products in manufacturing and the industrial sector, in cleaning products, and reducing the use of fertilizers and pesticides within the agriculture sector.

Preserve wetlands by protecting them from activities that can harm them. This can be done by creating protected areas such as national parks, wildlife refuges, and conservation research areas.

Wetland ecosystems support water purification, control flood, and provide habitat for many aquatic species. It is also important to recognize that Indigenous communities in Guyana and around the world have had a longstanding connection with wetland ecosystems.

The Secretariat of the Convention on Wetlands invites you to join the World Wetlands Day celebrations on 2 February 2024. The theme for the day is “Wetlands and Human Wellbeing”. With only six years left to meet the Sustainable Development Goals in 2030, there is an urgent need to act now.

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

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FEATURE

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Int’l Education Day...

Through conversations with head teachers and past students, it is evident that education plays a pivotal role in people's lives. However, the challenges faced along the journey cannot be ignored.

For instance, consider the story of Alison Lanferman, a graduate Head Teacher at the St Pius Primary School, who has been in the teaching profession for just over 33 years. Lanferman, who began her teaching journey as a pupil teacher at Dolphin Secondary School, spoke of her challenges as a young teacher having to deal with students within her age group.

“It was tough for me, especially dealing with the boys in the school at the time, since they saw me as a young female and would try to ‘express their affection’ or didn’t show much respect.”

Addressing challenges faced with the school’s curriculum from then to now, Lanferman noted that it can be confusing for new teachers

Education Minister Priya Manickchand

to navigate efficiently. She emphasized the need for the curriculum to be structured in a way that facilitates better teaching practices for all educators, and highlighted a concerning trend wherein students are more focused on consuming information to pass exams than taking the time to fully comprehend and internalize the knowledge bestowed upon them.

Similarly, Paul Burnette,

a former teacher at Nations University, who served the institution for ten years, highlighted the challenges faced by both teachers and students during his time.

He observed that some teachers lacked proficiency in utilizing technology for instructional purposes and connecting with their students, but also noted that while new teaching methods have advantages, they can pose difficulties for some students, particularly those who may not have access to the necessary tools, due to financial constraints.

Further, Burnette noted that for students at the NGSA level, it may be failing our students, though it is necessary. “Too much is being done in the classroom for children at that age,” he opined. When they reach Form One, they are so oversaturated, (while) it didn’t completely prepare them for what is expected on the secondary level,” Burnette added.

In a message to observe

FROM PAGE 14

opportunity to learn and succeed.

“Despite the challenges, the education system in Guyana has yielded significant benefits. Many individuals who have gone through this system have excelled

Paul Burnette, former Educator at Nations University

the day, Education Minister Priya Manickchand stated, “It is important to recognize the issues and benefits of the education system. This allows us the opportunity to raise awareness about the challenges and advantages that still impact education. It also catalyzes governments and individuals to work together in enhancing the education system and ensuring that everyone has an equal

and attained leadership positions, while others have been able to contribute on an international level. This serves as a testament to the potential of the education system and the capabilities of those who have experienced it.”

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Gas-to-Energy project on track for 2025 completion...

FROM PAGE 11

In last year’s national budget, the project received a $43.3 billion allocation in addition to the $24.6 billion injected into the start-up of the transformational project, for the construction of an integrated Natural Gas Liquid (NGL) Plant and the 300-megawatt (MW) Combined Cycle Power Plant at Wales, WBD. Between 2020 and 2023, investments have also been increased in clean renewable energy. Some 173 per cent in-

crease in installed solar PV capacity - from 5.3 megawatts to 14.6 megawatts – has been recorded throughout Guyana.

For this year, work will commence on a 10-megawatt solar farm in Berbice, an eight-megawatt solar farm in Essequibo, and a 0.6-megawatt solar farm in Leguan.

The Government would be spending $4.8 billion to finance these projects.

Solar power generation increased with the commissioning of a 1.5MW solar

farm in Bartica in 2023, while works have been advanced on the 0.65-megawatt solar farm in Mahdia. The latter will be completed within the first quarter of this year.

Solar photovoltaic (PV) mini-grids have also been installed in 21 communities in 2023, among which are Baramita, Capoey, Kwebana, Orealla, and Siparuta. These mini-grid systems now provide renewable electricity to 285 public and community buildings.

In 2024, over $350 million has been budgeted for new mini-grid systems in several areas, including Awarewaunau, Katoka, Maruranau, Nappi, and Yupukari.

At the household level in the off-grid hinterland and riverine communities, 26,398 solar panels were delivered, bringing electricity to many of those homes for the very first time. In 2024, a further 3,602 solar panels will be distributed.

An overhead view of part of the onshore facilities being developed for the Gas-to-Energy project

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22 NEWS

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UG launches robust Gender Policy to advance equity, equality & non-discrimination T he University of Guyana on Thursday officially launched a carefully-designed, robust Gender Policy aimed at ensuring that all staff, students and external stakeholders, irrespective of gender, have equal rights, responsibilities and development opportunities at the University.

In launching this policy, the University touted its commitment to implementing sustainable strategies and programmes towards the advancement and implementation of equity, equality, non-discrimination, and diversity among all staff and students, and with its external stakeholders.

Creation of the Gender Policy was supported by the University’s local and international development partners - the European Union (EU), UNICEF, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Women and Gender Equality Commission (WGEC).

Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Prof Paloma Mohamed-Martin, declared the University very proud to be leading the way in ensuring that a carefully-designed policy has been

written, and noted that a strong institutional framework is in place to ensure it is effectively and fully implemented. The VC explained that a rigorous process was followed by the University before the policy became final.

“The university’s procedures are quite rigorous, going through four committees whenever a policy is to be made,” she noted.

The VC further explained that the Sexual Harassment and Sexual Misconduct Policy, a Mental Wellness Policy, and an Inclusion, Diversity and Equity Policy would also complement the Gender Policy. She thanked the EU, UNICEF, UNDP and the Women and Gender Equality Commission for their support in ensuring

the policy has been finalised.

UN Resident Coordinator in Guyana, Yesim Oruc, noted in her remarks that the Gender Policy is a result of previous collaborations and partnerships between the UN, EU and the University.

“This product stands alongside other related outputs developed through various Pillars of the Spotlight Initiative, in collaboration with the Government of Guyana, the Private Sector, and other key stakeholders,” she said.

The Resident Coordinator added, “I encourage the University of Guyana to quickly and fully implement the Gender Policy being launched today. A policy on paper is a remarkable product, which is the culmination of the countless efforts

(From L-R): Representative of the Women and Gender Equality Commission, Nicole Cole; UN Resident Coordinator in Guyana, Ms Yesim Oruc; European Union Ambassador to Guyana, Rene van Nes; ViceChancellor of the University of Guyana, Prof Paloma Mohamed-Martin; and Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Institutional Advancement, Dr Melissa Ifill, each holding up a copy of the Gender Policy

of countless people; but even better than a policy on paper is a policy in action; one that is so inextricably woven into the fabric of campus life that it becomes a defining characteristic.”

European Union Ambassador to Guyana, Rene van Nes, noted how very pleased the EU is to support the initiative, and said the Gender Policy would help to ensure the University of Guyana pro-

motes gender equality, equity, non-discrimination and justice, and equal opportunities within the academic community for all staff and students.

The Ambassador said: “Ensuring equal rights for all individuals, regardless of gender, serves as a powerful catalyst for the progress and prosperity of our societies. It makes our nations not only richer, but also more peaceful and more

secure. This policy is a commitment to breaking down barriers and building bridges. It's a promise to create a university where every one of you, regardless of gender identity, feels empowered, respected, and ready to conquer the world. Let this be the beginning of a transformative journey within the university, radiating its positive influence into the wider Guyanese society.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

NEWS

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UG launches robust...

FROM PAGE 22

Deputy Representative Officer-in-Charge (OIC), UNICEF Guyana and Suriname, Javier Cordoba, in his virtual presentation, congratulated the University and its partners for the efforts they have made in ensuring the policy was finalized, and noted that it is a step in the right direction.

UG Deputy ViceChancellor for Institutional Advancement, Dr Melissa Ifill, in a brief overview of the policy, noted that “the purpose of the Gender Policy include: to create a work and academic environment to ensure students, job applicants, and staff members receive the same treatment, irrespective of gender or gender identity; to create a safe environment that is free from all forms of violence for all, regardless of their gender; to end discrimination based on gender and gender identities; to raise awareness of gender equality, gender equity and gender justice; and to mainstream gender awareness in the University’s operations.”

Dr Ifill outlined that among the objectives of the policy are: 1) To promote working and learning environments in which all staff and students are treated with

dignity and respect; 2) To prohibit gender, gender identity and gender expression from being used as a criterion or requirement to disadvantage any staff or student; 3) To outline guidelines to report and procedures to investigate allegations of discriminatory behaviours or attitudes; 4) To promote a zero-tolerance policy for any forms of gender-based violence that emanates from gender inequality; 5) To provide guidelines for responding to all reported incidents of gender-based discrimination or violence; and 6) To provide guidelines for responding to all reported incidents of gender-based discrimination or violence.

Dr Ifill explained that the policy allows for data collection the promotion of gender diversity and the mainstreaming of gender in the curriculum. In this regard, the Institute of Gender Studies would work with faculties, schools and colleges to review their course/programme content to eliminate gender value judgements, and to appropriately integrate gender in all taught courses and research, in order to promote a fair and inclusive gender environment in the classroom.

According to DVC Ifill, the

University is also utilising the Sexual Harassment and Sexual Misconduct Policy that was approved in 2021 to hold perpetrators of gender-based harassment and violence accountable. This policy includes both preventative and disciplinary measures, and is a complementary policy to this Gender Policy.

The DVC noted that training and educational materials would be made available to the University community and the public on the University of Guyana’s website.

Debbie Hopkinson, Director of the Institute for Human Resiliency, Strategic Security, and the Future, said the policy provides guidelines on the actions that are critical to ensure continued efforts are made towards gender equality and empowerment.

Head of the UG Institute of Gender Studies, Dr Lisa Edwards, whose Unit would play a major role in implementing the policy, noted that gender is one notion that cannot be ignored if we are committed to promoting the wellbeing of people. Further, she said the policy sets a strong foundation for stakeholders to work together on achieving the objectives laid out in the document.

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NEWS

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Greater Guyana Initiative funds UG School of Medicine's innovative Skills and Anatomy Lab W

ith the primary focus of advancing healthcare education in Guyana, the Greater Guyana Initiative (GGI) on Tuesday handed over a fully-equipped Skills and Anatomy Lab to the University of Guyana’s School of Medicine.

As part of a transformative collaboration, GGI is funding key projects at the University of Guyana, including the School of Medicine’s Higher Education Enhancement Project, which is designed to establish a fully equipped and functional skills lab, recognized as a pivotal component in training healthcare professionals.

The lab will feature anatomy models, providing invaluable insights into functional anatomy,

training.

By fostering early exposure to clinical skills in a simulated environment, the project aims to improve student learning, and application and retention of various skills. This, in turn, would contribute to the development of highly- competent health practitioners.

Occupational Health Physician at ExxonMobil Guyana Limited, Dr. Antonette Hamer, shared

Cutting of the ribbon with Dr. Antonette Hamer (ExxonMobil Guyana Limited) and Dr. Roberta Martin (3rd Year MBBS Coordinator, College of Medical Sciences)

and creating a skills-based learning environment to

enhance the practical aspects of undergraduate

that, being in the medical field, she is aware of how essential it is to have a handson approach to subject areas such as anatomy. Hence GGI is pleased to have supported the School of Medical Science in making its vision come to fruition.

Dr Hamer shared, “The anatomy lab provides great visualization and insight to the fine distinctions of human anatomy.” She added that “Undergraduate students will develop the tech-

nical competency needed within their work scope, allowing for a seamless transition in the clinical environment.”

With GGI’s mission being to build capacity in education and training, economic development and health, this initiative would strengthen the Guyanese workforce and increase the capacity of human resources and competencies across the health sector.

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Greater Guyana Initiative funds UG...

FROM PAGE 25

UG Deputy Vice Chancellor Professor Emanuel Cummings has said establishment of the Skills and Anatomy Lab is a significant cornerstone, as this addition would aid in training of the college’s healthcare professionals, and allow them to gain practical experience.

“The equipment will surely strengthen the foun-

dation in the development and training of our doctors; who will, at the end of their five years, be fit for purpose and deliver the kind of healthcare that the country needs,” Dr Cummings has said.

GGI’s partnership with the University underscores a shared vision of a prosperous and diversified future for Guyana. This

Stakeholders of the recently unveiled Skills and Anatomy Lab (left to right) Dr. Martina Mc Kenzie – Assistant Dean, College of Medical Sciences; Professor Paloma Mohamed, Vice Chancellor – UG; Dr. Cecil Boston, Dean, College of Medical Sciences; Professor Rajni Karup, Dean of Graduate Studies, College of Medical Sciences; and Dr. Roberta Martin, 3rd Year MBBS Coordinator, College of Medical Sciences

partnership stands as a testament to the commitment to building a skilled workforce, advancing education, and fostering a robust healthcare system in Guyana.

The Greater Guyana Initiative is a US$100 million, 10-year investment made by the Stabroek Block co-venturers -- ExxonMobil Guyana Limited, Hess Guyana Exploration Limited, and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited -- that is geared towards developing the local workforce, building human capacity, enhancing education, and improving healthcare with the aim of promoting sustainable economic diversification in Guyana.

27 Guyana’s rice production expected to increase to 710,000 MT in 2024 NEWS

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W

ith significant investments and sustained policy management in the agriculture sector, Guyana’s rice sector is moving apace, and production is expected to increase to 710,000 metric tonnes in 2024.

This has been underscored by Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha during his budget debate presentation on Wednesday in the National Assembly.

“And this year, again we set a target of 710,000 tonnes, to increase production from 653,000 tons. That is the progress I am talking about. We brought out a new variety, which is called the zinc-enriched, biofortified rice. Today those varieties are being given to farmers. That variety will attract preferential prices around the world. That is the kind of thing we are doing,” Mustapha declared.

He said the rice sector has recorded an increase of 7 per cent in 2023 with a production of 653,706 metric tonnes, signifying increased production of 43,111 metric tonnes over the 2022 production of 610,595 metric tonnes; and Guyana earned approximately $45.2 billion in rice

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha

exports in 2023, in excess of $3 billion more than it earned in 2022.

Mustapha explained that the PPP/C Government would continue to implement various measures to bring immense relief to farmers; unlike what had obtained with the previous Government, who had increased land rental and drainage and irrigation (D&I) charges on farmers.

In contrast to the previous Government, who had raised land rental and drainage and irriga-

tion (D&I) fees on farmers, Minister Mustapha clarified, the PPP/C Government would continue to undertake numerous measures to provide significant assistance to the farmers.

“The Panama payment is still outstanding! US$7 million! You left the farmers in debt, that is the legacy of the APNU/AFC! But I want to tell you that this PPP/C Government will recoup that money for the farmers in our country. Do you remember the pressure you put on the farm-

Rice cultivation

ers, especially in Region Five, for D&I and land rental charges from $3,500 to $15,000? When we took a motion to the Parliament, you used your one-seat majority to defeat the motion!”

Minister Mustapha informed the House.

As promised, when the Government assumed office in 2020, the D&I charges were reversed to their original rates, resulting in al-

most $1.3 billion being immediately placed into the hands of farmers in Region Five.

Mustapha said farmers have also benefited from the distribution of seed paddy and availability of more farmlands to increase yields; and several facilities have been built and upgraded to aid in the nation’s rice production. This year, $1.3 billion is budget-

ed for expenditure by the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) to support increased production and productivity of the rice industry.

And, he said, with $97.6 billion budgeted in 2024 to further stimulate the agriculture sector, the Government is unwavering in its commitment to its transformation, diversification, and expansion.

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40 families benefit under “Vulnerable Families Support Program”

F

ood For the Poor (Guyana) Inc., in collaboration with the Marriott Hotel’s “Serve 360 Sustainability Program”, last Tuesday provided relief to 40 vulnerable families in the South Georgetown/ Sophia area as part of the “Vulnerable Families Support Program.”

This joint initiative, which highlighted the FFTP’s commitment to supporting the most vulnerable in our community, had the primary objective of collaborating to minimize the effects of food insecurity on vulnerable families, and the program is intended to last from 6 to 24 months.

As the socio-economic conditions of the beneficiaries improve, they will gradually be transitioned out of the program.

Speaking at the simple handover ceremony, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of FFTP, Andrea Benjamin, said, “This is a

Representatives of Food for the Poor (Guyana) Inc. and the Guyana Marriott Hotel

labour of love from everyone involved in the program. Over the years, FFTP (Guyana) Inc. has been supporting vulnerable families through our relief program. We understand the need to take an

holistic approach to their situation, so we are willing to work closely with them for a maximum period of two years. We will explore various methods for families to enhance their capacity and empower them-

selves. We want to help you improve your lives.”

Human Resources Generalist of the Marriott Hotel, Crystel Hampstead, expressed her gratitude to FFTP for allowing the company to be a part of such a

significant event.

“We at Marriott think this is a wonderful initiative, and it is something that we will continue to support in the future. To the program beneficiaries, I encourage you to participate in this event, as it will empower you and improve your socio-economic condition.”

One of the beneficiaries, Victoria Lennox, expressed her gratitude to the two entities for their contribution, while stating that although the food items are helpful, she is hopeful that the “Vulnerable Families Support Program” would help her find a job and stabilize her household.

Each family received a hamper containing essential food and personal care items such as flushable wipes, Johnson’s Head-toToe Baby Shampoo, baby wipes, and food items.

Collaboration is crucial in addressing the needs of vulnerable, food-insecure

families, and the FFTP believes that each such initiative is a cornerstone of progress.

FFTP (Guyana) Inc. believes in breaking down silos and fostering partnerships across sectors, including governments, NGOs, businesses and local communities. The impact of collaboration extends beyond mere statistics and reaches into the lives of individuals and families. Therefore, it is important to dedicate ourselves to working together, sharing ideas and resources to build a world where no one faces the harsh reality of food insecurity alone.

Marriott Hotel’s “Serve 360 Sustainability Program” is that company’s commitment to creating positive and sustainable impact wherever they do business, guided by their 2025 Sustainability and Social Impact Goals, as well as the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

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30 NEWS Stop-and-search exercise yields multiple traffic violations in Springlands I SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

urged to adhere to traffic laws and regulations to foster a secure and orderly community.

Only a week ago, the Guyana Police Force Traffic Department dealt with a spike in cases, totalling 927.

Violations included speeding and driving under the influence (DUI), with 154 cases of speeding and seven DUI incidents.

n a targeted effort to ensure road safety, Police in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), conducted a comprehensive stop-andsearch' exercise on the public road at Springlands on Friday evening.

The operation, aimed at maintaining law and order, resulted in the inspection of numerous vehicles and individuals passing through the area. During the operation, law enforcement officers encountered various traffic violations, leading to a total of six traffic cases.

Traffic officers conducting enforcement

The violations included Breach of Condition as Prescribed Fitness, Failing to Produce a Driver's Licence, and Permit Irregularities.

According to the Police

Force, the stop-and-search initiative underscores the commitment of the Berbice Police to uphold traffic regulations and ensure the safety of both motorists and pedestrians.

Such exercises play a crucial role in deterring potential offenders and maintaining order on the roads. As the Police continue to prioritise proactive measures for public safety, residents are

Regional Divisions 4C, 4B, and six stood out in addressing the surge, recording 243, 164, and 139 cases, respectively. Authorities emphasise the 5Cs for road users: Caution, Care, Courtesy, Consideration, and Common Sense.

Alongside punitive actions, the Police focus on education, delivering 11 lectures to drivers, 10 at local

bars, and 10 at schools. The overall initiative aims to raise awareness and promote responsible road behaviour.

As such, the Police have collaborated with Regional Road Safety Councils and partners to make these campaigns a reality. These efforts aim to shift motorists' mindsets positively and enhance road safety.

Reg 10 traffic dept worried by reckless usage of roadway by motorcyclists T raffic Officer for Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), Inspector Sherwin Henry is concerned about the gross disrespect for the road laws by motorcyclists, particularly teenagers.

He pointed out that young motorcyclists oftentimes neglect essential safety measures, such as wearing helmets, and exhibit a lack of consideration for other road users.

“These motorcyclists fail to adhere to the rules and regulations governing the roads. They don’t wear protective helmets, observe the 5 Cs, and continue to use the roads without any consideration for road users," he noted.

Despite the alarming situation, Henry and his team are taking a proactive approach to address the problem including the launch of an extensive education drive aimed at raising awareness among motorcyclists about

Inspector Sherwin Henry

the importance of adhering to road laws.

The campaign emphasises the significance of wearing helmets and adopting responsible behaviour while using the roads.

"We try to tackle them with our enforcement. We had an increase in motorcycle accidents, but we started to engage them, and we see persons are starting to comply, and this was something

we were looking for."

In addition to educational initiatives, law enforcement agencies are intensifying efforts to enforce existing road laws. Stricter penalties will be imposed on those found in violation to discourage reckless behaviour and promote a safer road environment.

"Most of the time, we would find them in groups [the motorcyclists], and most of them are around 16, 17…"

While grappling with this challenge, Inspector Henry remains optimistic that a combination of education and enforcement will lead to positive changes in the behaviour of motorcyclists, ultimately creating safer roads for all.

Finally, he urged the motorcyclists to use the roads safely, emphasising that the safe use of the road is everyone’s responsibility, and encouraged everyone to demonstrate that kind of responsibility and stay safe at all times.

NEWS

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Guyanese entrepreneurs to participate in fellowship programme in US T

hree young Guyanese entrepreneurs – Brian Smith, Nakaida Belle-Lindie and Shellon Lynch – have been selected to participate in the Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) Fellowship Programme in the United States.

The Guyanese who are actively involved in the fields of drone technology, civil construction, and commercial printing were accepted out of over 50 local applicants and over 2000 applicants globally.

The YLAI Programme which was launched in 2015, empowers entrepreneurs, increases trade, and encourages job promotion throughout Latin America, the Caribbean, and Canada.

It aims to help strengthen the capacity of its participants to launch and advance their entrepreneurial ideas and effectively contribute to the social and economic development of their communities.

Smith, the Operations Lead for Dragonfly Drones and Geospatial Solutions, has as his primary goal gaining exposure to industry leader networks and creating alliances for partnerships and collaborations through the initiative.

Belle-Lindie, the Founder and Managing Director of HKBL Construction, aspires to gain knowledge and make connections to help her

grow as a successful business owner.

While, Lynch, the Owner and Creative Director of SL Printing and Stationery, aims to enhance her understanding of effective programme management, strategic planning, and communication strategies through the YLAI Programme.

In March, the trio will join 280 other young leaders in the United States for one month and will benefit from professional placements with US businesses in 19 cities.

They will also collaborate with their peers to address shared business challenges, as well as engage in virtual and in-person events and cross-cultural activities.

The 2024 YLAI Fellowship Programme, which is sponsored by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the US Department of State, is slated to conclude in April.

YLAI Fellowship Programme

The YLAI Fellowship Programme includes online and in-person coursework, developed by IREX and Arizona State University (ASU), that combines technical entrepreneurship training and leadership development.

Using the E-LAP, fellows will set and achieve their entrepreneurial leadership goals.

YLAI Welcome Workshop in the United

The Guyanese trio Shellon Lynch, Brian Smith and Nakaida Belle-Lindie

States: The YLAI team will meet fellows in Houston upon arrival for a fourday welcome meeting. This meeting will be to welcome fellows to the US and give YLAI advisors and fellows the chance to meet and go over logistics, and discuss community guidelines, and programme policies.

YLAI Closing Forum in the United States:?YLAI fellows participate in the?YLAI Closing Forum in Washington, DC, as well as networking events with business and social entrepreneurial leaders, and US Government representatives.

Post-Fellowship Sustained Engagement: After successful completion of the Fellowship, YLAI Fellows continue their collaboration with US partners and have ac-

cess to ongoing professional development op-

portunities, mentorships, networking, and alumni

activities. YLAI Fellows will have the chance to?welcome a US host?to their country through the Outbound Exchange Programme, sharing their expertise on the entrepreneurship climate in their country.

As a result of the programme, YLAI Fellows can accelerate their commercial and social ventures’ success and develop specific action plans to implement upon return to their home countries.

The programme also allows them to build networks, linkages, and lasting partnerships to attract investments and support for their entrepreneurial ventures.

Body of fisherman found floating in Berbice canal

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ilach Nateram, called ‘Boy’, or ‘Rice’, a fisherman of No. 4 Settlement, Blairmont, West Bank Berbice, is suspected to have drowned at some time on Friday in a canal in the area.

According to reports, Nateram had been an alcoholic and had suffered from epilepsy. He had last been seen alive consuming alco-

hol in the village at about 17:30h on Friday. At about 23:45h on Friday, a sluice attendant found Nateram’s motionless body floating in the canal near the sluice.

At the time of the discovery, his face was submerged.

His body, clad in a pair of short red pants, was taken out of the canal and examined for suspected marks

of violence, but none was found.

Persons in the area were questioned, and information received was that the deceased would usually set seine in the said canal.

A post-mortem examination is expected to be conducted on Nateram’s body on Monday as investigations continue into his demise.

32 NEWS

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Bill tabled to increase oil money drawdown from NRF T

he Guyana Government on Friday tabled a bill that seeks to significantly increase the withdrawal amounts from the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) – where the country’s earnings from the burgeoning oil and gas sector are being held.

Senior Minister with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, presented the Fiscal Enactments (Amendment) Bill 2024 – a bill that intitules an act to amend the NRF Act, among other legislation.

The proposed bill was read for the first time in the National Assembly on Friday.

Under the new withdrawal formula in the proposed legislation, the Government plans to draw down 100 per cent on the first US$1 billion deposited into the Fund in the immediately preceding fiscal year; then 95 per cent on the second US$1 billion; followed by 90 per cent on the third US$1 billion; and 85 per cent on the fourth US$1 billion.

This proposed withdrawal formula is significantly higher than the figures that were catered for in the current 2021 NRF Bill. That NRF formula allows the withdrawal of

100 per cent for the first US$500 million; 75 per cent for the second US$500 million; 50 per cent for the third US$500 million; 25 per cent for the fourth US$500 million; 5 per cent for the fifth US$500 million; and 3 per cent on the excess for the first US$2.5 billion.

Minister Singh first announced the Government’s intention to increase the amount of money it can withdraw annually from the NRF to finance its accelerated transformation agenda.

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

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

“Our Government will be proposing… a revision to the NRF withdrawal rule which, once approved,

drew a total of $126 billion (US$607.6 million) in three tranches from the NRF which went towards financing Guyana’s national development plans.

In 2023, US$1002 million was withdrawn to finance national development priorities. The last withdrawal for last year, of eight in total, was made on December 27, 2023, from the NRF to the Consolidated Fund to the tune of US$152.1 million (equivalent to $31.6 billion).

Petroleum revenue

Senior Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh

will result in an upward revision to the NRF withdrawal amount to take effect from this fiscal year.

The revised withdrawal rule will retain the important feature that, as production and revenue ramp up further, an increasing share of the inflows into the NRF will be saved relative to the share transferred to the Consolidated Fund to finance national development priorities,” the Finance Minister had explained during the presentation of Budget 2024.

The funds in the NRF, which are being held in

an account at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, have their origins in the oil-rich Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, where US oil major ExxonMobil and its partners – Hess Corporation and CNOOC – are producing light sweet crude using the Liza Destiny, Liza Unity, and more recently, the Prosperity Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels.

In 2022, for the first time, Guyana used oil funds to finance a national budget. In fact, in 2022, the Government with-

According to Dr Singh, some US$1617 million in petroleum revenue was deposited into the Fund last year, and at the end of 2023, the overall balance, inclusive of interest income, stood at US$1973.5 million.

For 2023, the Fund received US$1398.9 million in profit oil, that is, US$576.6 million from Liza Destiny and US$822.3 million from Liza Unity. With respect to royalty payments, some US$218.1 million was received from the Stabroek Block operator.

These earnings stemmed from the 142 lifts of crude oil from Guyana’s three producing FPSOs last year. Of those lifts, 17

were Government entitlements – six from the Liza Destiny FPSO and 11 from the Liza Unity FPSO. “The profit oil receipts received in 2023 correspond to two lifts that occurred in the last quarter of 2022, and 15 Government lifts that occurred in 2023. Two receipts related to 2023 are anticipated to be made this month, with respect to lifts that occurred in December 2023,” the Minister explained.

In 2024, Dr Singh revealed, some 202 lifts of crude oil are projected from the three FPSOs in Stabroek Block. Again, 25 of those lifts are estimated for the Government.

Consequently, earnings from the Government’s share of profit oil in 2024 are estimated at US$2078.9 million, while royalty payments for this year are projected at US$319.9 million.

Additionally, based on 2023 deposits, an estimated US$1154.3 million or $240.1 billion can be withdrawn from the NRF in 2024 and transferred to the Consolidated Fund to support the country’s development agenda.

The $1.146 trillion 2024 Budget is financed with a $240.1 billion transfer from the NRF to the Consolidated Fund. (G-8)

9 homeless after fire razes Wismar home

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family of nine in Andyville, Wismar, Linden has been left displaced following a destructive fire that engulfed their home on Saturday.

At the time of the fire, the owner of the house was not at home, but one of the occupants told media operatives that she, along with two of her siblings and four young children, was inside the house when they heard a noise followed by the flickering of electric bulbs in the front bedroom.

Upon further investigation, they observed flames and promptly contacted the Guyana Fire Service.

Despite efforts from both the Fire Service and helpful neighbours, the occupants tried in vain to salvage some of their be-

longings. Eventually, they were compelled to evacuate as the fire rapidly spread throughout the house.

In a video seen by Guyana Times, persons were heard saying that they called the Fire Service before the fire became uncontrollable, but they never turned up until the house had been destroyed by the blaze.

Authorities, including the Fire Service and the Guyana Police Force (GPF), have initiated an investigation into the cause of the fire.

One day ago, the Fire Service stated that since the beginning of the year, it has responded to over 20 fires originating from electrical issues, arson and negligence.

The fire that destroyed the home in Linden

In response to this concern, it has launched nationwide community engagement initiatives wherein firefighters are ac-

tively spreading awareness about fire safety and prevention as they reach citizens one person at a time.

This year, the Guyana

Fire Service is set to receive a $572.8 million allocation in the 2024 Budget, with plans to construct four new fire stations and

complete the Diamond Fire Station.

Additionally, extensions and rehabilitation of existing fire stations in Linden, Rose Hall, and Timehri are on the agenda.

The Government aims to enhance the Fire Service's capabilities by upgrading its transport and equipment fleet, with recent investments in firefighting equipment and the planned delivery of 40 light firefighting vehicles in 2024.

The budget also allocates funds for servicing and installation of fire hydrants and training for fire officers, emphasising the Government's commitment to the Fire Service's readiness and response capabilities.

NEWS

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Lethem Housing Support Programme

18 families receive keys to new 2-bedroom homes – 85 identified house lots at Poke Bridge Housing Scheme

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ighteen families from the border town of Lethem, Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo) on Saturday received the keys to their homes, under the Lethem Housing Support Programme.

The beneficiaries received their keys following a simple ceremony, which was held in the compound of the Regional Housing Office.

On the occasion, the Housing and Water Minister, Collin Croal was joined by the Mayor of Lethem, John Macedo; Regional Chairman, Brian Allicock; Regional

commitment to ensuring affordable houses for all Guyanese.

He added that these and other investments in the region should be seen as investments in improving the quality of life for hinterland families. Additionally, reference was also made to the spin-off benefits these investments bring to the region.

"These investments also aid in building and strengthening village economies. We use labour from the communities and villages such as Kwatamang, Shulinab, Shea, Moco Moco, St Ignatius, and Surama to provide the clay bricks and

proximately $3 million, of which $ 1 million in support in the form of clay bricks and timber was given by the Ministry and $2 million through a partnership with financial institutions.

were also given the green light to commence construction of their homes after they were given access to their respective lots in the Tract CHPA (Poke Bridge) housing scheme in Lethem,

Minister Croal and other CHPA officials on site for the identification exercise

A family receiving the keys to their home

Some elated residents waiting to locate their lands Executive Officer, Carl Singh, and other regional representatives.

Minister Croal, in his address to the beneficiaries, noted his government's

timber. " The combined total of the investment made on the homes that were handed over stands at $53 million.

Each home is valued at ap-

The units measure 550 square ft. and feature two bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, and a lavatory area.

Further, the regional representatives all lauded the initiative, noting their satisfaction at seeing the initiative to this final stage.

Additionally, as the programme continues, contracts have been signed for another 40 housing units to be constructed in the Tract CHPA Housing Scheme.

Meanwhile, 85 families

Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

The families were invited on Saturday to participate in a lot identification exercise and were joined

by Housing and Water Minister Croal.

The families were all shown their boundaries and allowed to plant name posts, signalling ownership.

The activity forms part of the Ministry’s ongoing drive to increase occupancy rates in housing schemes across the country.

Surveyors from the Agency, at the beginning of the year, started an aggressive Lot Identification exercise, spanning Regions Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Five (Mahaica-Berbice), Six (East Berbice- Corentyne), Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

In May of last year, a $507 million contract was signed for ongoing infrastructure works in the area.

Upon completion, approximately 400 individuals will gain access to their land.

It was reported in September that a total of 25,996 house lots had been allocated up to that time since the Government took office, with a significant portion – 14,054 – being

granted to young individuals between the ages of 21 and 35.

There are approximately 57,000 pending house lot applications. However, to address this and provide lots and housing units to thousands of people, a substantial $170 billion is required, said President Irfaan Ali a few months ago. 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.

This is 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.

Protect personal data, conduct regular training – NDMA Head in Data Protection Day Message

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mphasising that “data protection is everyone’s responsibility”, Cybersecurity Director at the National Data Management Authority (NDMA), Muriana McPherson, has sounded a call for organisations to put systems in place to ensure the personal data are protected including regular training for employees.

She made these remarks in her message in recognition of Data Protection Day 2024, or Privacy Day as it is otherwise called, which is observed on January 28 annually.

According to McPherson, the NDMA is commemorating this day by raising awareness on the importance of data protection. She noted that modern organisations – whether large enterprises, small businesses, or medium-sized companies – usually collect, store, process, use, and share data which includes their employees’ and customers’ personal identifiable information.

However, the Cybersecurity Director pointed out that these personal data can traverse the boundaries of an organisation’s network, and it can reside on a plethora of devices ranging from an individual’s mobile phone to an organisation’s on-premises server,

to a cloud server in another country.

To this end, McPherson noted that while organisations must make personal data accessible to employees and other stakeholders, it is even more imperative that they ensure that the privacy of the individual data subject is maintained.

“It is imperative, therefore, that both organisations and individuals alike, understand the risk associated with the use of personal data, and ensure that prudent measures are implemented for its protection.

Managing and securing personal data is one of the most complex and challenging tasks for any organisation or individual when contemplating the risk of personal data breach,” she urged.

The NDMA Head explained that data protection is important to both reduce risk and enable a proactive response to associated threats. This, she added, is especially crucial given the current age of targeted cyber-attacks aimed at stealing personal identifiable information including financial and health data.

“This is an era where mobility and convenience of accessing data from anywhere using any device is the new norm. A period in

Cybersecurity Director at NDMA, Muriana McPherson

which the prevalence of both trusted employees and others’ actions – unintentional or intentional – has resulted in personal data breach,” McPherson stated.

On this note, the Cybersecurity Director offered some steps that organisations and individuals can implement to protect personal data. These include: managing data access by establishing and enforcing policies surrounding levels of access granted to data users, with regular oversight; promptly applying vendor-released patches and software updates to systems given that attackers commonly take advantage of unpatched com-

puter systems and software to gain access to personal data; implement malware detection software, which is crucial in safeguarding against common Internetbased threats, such as webbased malware designed to steal data; ensure that personal identifiable data is encrypted both at rest, and in transit to prevent unauthorised disclosure; enable multifactor authentication (MFA) as an absolute requirement for all applications and services that are used to access personal data; and implement network security controls such as firewall and intrusion prevention systems to regulate data flows, and to identify and stop known threat attempts.

However, even with the installation of this measure, the NDMA Head said no data protection strategy is complete without ample security awareness training for all who access and interact with organisations’ sensitive data.

“It should come as no surprise that intentional and unintentional mistakes of employees, contractors and partners represent the biggest threat to data security and the most significant challenge in personal data breach prevention. Hence, proper training that covers

data usage guidelines, password policies and common threats, such as social engineering and phishing scams, should be conducted regularly,” McPherson posited.

In August 2023, Guyana passed its first Data Protection Act to regulate the handling of personal data to protect the privacy of individuals concerning their data.

The Cybersecurity Director implored organisations to get familiarised with the Data Protection Act of 2023. She also asked that they keep an inventory of the type of personal data they use, know where it resides, and how it is accessed and managed. Then, McPherson added, organisations should apply appropriate protection mechanisms to safeguard personal data and maintain privacy.

The Data Protection Bill was created to regulate the collection, keeping, processing, use and dissemination of personal data. It sets a statutory framework, moving away from the current construct of the country’s legislation, which does not safeguard against rights to data protection.

Personal data has been defined as any information relating to an identified or identifiable person, about

private and public life as well as professional activities.

The Bill prescribes that a body be established, recognised as the Data Protection Office, which shall be responsible for the administration and implementation of the Act. The President will also be empowered to appoint a Data Protection Commissioner.

The new law also contains sanctions for data protection breaches. A person who fails to comply with the enforcement notice, an information notice, or a special information notice commits to an office and can be fined $1 million or imprisoned for three months.

Any person who intentionally obstructs the execution of a warrant, fails to provide the Police with required assistance, or makes false statements under certain subsections can be fined $1 million- or six months’ imprisonment.

There are penalties for data controllers, which are persons who determine the manner and purpose of which personal data is processed. It is a criminal offence for such officers to operate without being registered or without nominating a representative, carrying a fine of $10 million- or two months’ imprisonment.

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024

Regional

Opposition Senator calls on T&T PM: Efforts being made to Jamaica to “more loudly” bring home citizens from Syria, Iraq support South Africa in P case against Israel

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pposition Senator Lambert Brown has called on Jamaica to “more loudly” support South Africa in the African country’s landmark case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

South Africa has accused Israel of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, claiming it has breached the 1948 UN Genocide Convention, set up after World War II and the Holocaust.

In making his contribution to the State of the Nation Debate in the Senate on Friday, Brown asserted that Jamaica should more strongly condemn the alleged genocide.

“Today, the International Court of Justice made some provisional orders. This senator and all of us on this side support South Africa,” Brown declared.

“We support the South African call to end the genocide. We call for a ceasefire in Gaza, immediate ceasefire as we condemn the terrorist acts of October 7. I’m sorry, my friend Senator Hill

Senator Lambert Brown

is not here. But Senator Hill no black man, no black woman, no progressive government can but condemn the genocide in Israel, by Israel against the Palestinian people,” Brown continued.

“Minister, my good friend, I hope to hear our voice, the voice of Jamaica, more loudly supporting South Africa; calling for a ceasefire and an end to the genocide.”

Hill, the Minister of in-

dustry, investment, and commerce, has publicly declared his personal support for Israel in the conflict.

The ICJ on Friday ruled that Israel must take measures to prevent the killing of more Palestinian civilians in Gaza and to prevent acts of genocide, although the court stopped short of calling for a ceasefire.

(Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

rime Minister, Dr Keith Rowley said no Trinidad and Tobago nationals who are in conflict zones in Syria have been repatriated to date.

But Dr Rowley gave the assurance that efforts to do so are ongoing.

He made these statements in the House of Representative on January 26.

“The Government of Trinidad and Tobago is committed to ensuring that the return of qualified persons is organised in a way that balances the needs of those returning with the national security considerations that’s in the best interest of Trinidad and Tobago.”

Rowley sad this was “a highly sensitive and complex matter”.

He reminded Members of Parliament that last March, Government took a policy decision to attempt to repatriate ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria)-affiliated Trinidad and Tobago nationals who are in various locations in

In this May 2021 file photo, persons walk in the al-Hol camp in Syria that houses some 60,000 refugees, including families and supporters of the Islamic State group, many of them foreign nationals (AP photo)

Syria and in Iraq.

Dr Rowley said that involved the creation of a three-man repatriation committee working alongside with an inter-ministerial committee called Task Force Nightingale that was formed in 2018.

The team consists of former Speaker of the House Nizam Mohammed, former diplomat Patrick Edwards and Kewsi Atiba.

Rowley said this team provides an invaluable interface between civil soci-

ety and Government in order to repatriate Trinidad and Tobago nationals in Syria and Iraq.

He added that the National Security Ministry continues to look at how to successfully reintegrate these people into society while balancing national security considerations.

Rowley said the team is well resourced and further resources could be provided to it if necessary.

(Excerpt from Trinidad Newsday)

Strong quake in southern Guatemala US reviewing Venezuelan sanctions jolts residents, felt in El Salvador policy in wake of court decision A

T

he United States is reviewing its sanctions policy against Venezuela after a court in that country upheld a ban preventing presidential candidate Maria Corina Machado from holding office, the US State Department said on Saturday.

The ruling by Venezuela’s Supreme Justice Tribunal on Friday means Machado, a 56-year-old industrial engineer, cannot register her candidacy for presidential elections scheduled for the second half of 2024.

“The United States is currently reviewing our Venezuela sanctions policy, based on this development and the recent political targeting of democratic Opposition candidates and civil society,” State Department spokes-

man Matthew Miller said in a statement.

The US eased economically-debilitating oil sanctions on the crude-exporting country in October after President Nicolás Maduro’s Government signed a deal with the Opposition under which Caracas made commitments to hold a free and fair 2024 presidential election.

Miller said the court ruling was a “deeply-concerning decision” that ran contrary to the commitments made by Maduro to allow all parties to select candidates.

Maduro on Thursday said the deal with his opponents was in danger of collapse, citing what he has described as “conspiracies” against him.

Gerardo Blyde, head of the Opposition negotiat-

ing team, denied members had been linked to acts of violence and demanded the court ruling be reversed.

“We are not asking for sanctions, that is not our job. We are looking for the process to move forward,” he told a news conference in Caracas on Saturday.

At a separate press conference in Caracas, a representative for the Government’s negotiating team insisted the ruling party would remain in the talks.

“We will never hesitate to remain in the talks, to remain in the discussion,” said Hector Rodriguez, the ruling party Governor for Venezuela’s Miranda state.

He said the Government had complied with all prior agreements. (Excerpt from Reuters)

IDB approves loan worth US$100M for Paraguay

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he Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has approved a loan worth US$100 million to Paraguay to help the country improve its logistics performance and commercial integration, it said in a statement.

According to the statement, dated January 29 but published on Saturday,

the 20-year loan will have an SOFR interest rate and will especially benefit micro, small, and medium-sized businesses in the country.

The credit approved by the IDB will support policy reforms, and is the first in a series of two consecutive loans technically linked to each other, although financed independently, the

statement added.

“This programme will support reforms to strengthen logistics management and institutions facilitating trade, boost sustainable investment in logistics infrastructure and services, expand businesses’ access to international markets, and promote foreign direct investment,” it said. (Reuters)

magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck the southern Pacific coast of Guatemala late on Friday, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS), causing some to flee their homes and with early reports of damage to buildings.

The quake was also felt in neighbouring El Salvador.

There were no immedi-

ate reports of injuries, just past midnight, while many slept.

Officials in El Salvador described the quake as “strong” and said they were monitoring developments.

The earthquake’s epicentre was near the Guatemalan town of Taxisco, about 100 kilometres (60 miles) south of the capital Guatemala City, where alarms sound-

ed and some frightened residents evacuated their homes.

USGS said the quake struck at a depth of 108 km (67 miles).

Parts of the facade of a church in the town of San Pablo Jocopilas, northwest of the quake’s epicentre, fell down, said Guatemala’s emergency services agency CONRED. (Reuters)

Antigua & Barbuda marks India’s 75th Republic Day with flag-hoisting ceremony

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he 75th Republic Day celebration in Antigua and Barbuda began in the morning with a flag-hoisting ceremony by India’s Honorary Consul, Vijay Tewani.

The event, attended by members of the Indian Diaspora and other special invitees, was followed by an evening reception at The Chimney Restaurant.

Congratulations were conveyed by Prime Minister Gaston Browne to PM Narendra Modi, and a similar message was sent by the Minister of Foreign Affairs. The enduring bond of friendship and good relations between India and Antigua and Barbuda was emphasised.

Tewani, as the Honorary

The event, attended by members of the Indian Diaspora and other special invitees, was followed by an evening reception

Consul of India, expressed pride in being part of the world’s largest democracy, highlighting this year’s theme, “Mother of Democracy”, and encourag-

ing the championing of justice, fairness, and friendship between Antigua and Barbuda and the Republic of India. (Excerpt from Antigua Observer)

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024

35

Around The World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS Trafigura assesses Red Sea risks after tanker attacked

by Houthis

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ommodities trader Trafigura said on Saturday it was assessing the security risks of further Red Sea voyages after firefighters put out a blaze on a tanker attacked

by Yemen's Houthi group a day earlier.

The US military said a US Navy ship and other vessels provided assistance after the Marlin Luanda was hit by a Houthi anti-ship missile.

"No further vessels operating on behalf of Trafigura are currently transiting the Gulf of Aden and we continue to assess carefully the risks involved in any voyage, including in respect of security and safety of the crew, together with shipowners and customers," a Trafigura statement said.

Some shipping companies have suspended transits through the Red Sea, which is accessed from the Gulf of Aden, and taken much longer, costlier journeys around Africa to avoid being attacked by Yemen's Iranian-backed Houthi group, which began launching waves of exploding drones and missiles at vessels on November 19 in response to Israel's military operations in Gaza.

The Houthi attacks have primarily targeted container vessels moving through the Red Sea. Many fuel tankers have kept using the route.

A notable exception is QatarEnergy, the world's second largest exporter of liquefied natural gas, which earlier this month stopped sending tankers via the Red Sea, citing security concerns.

Over several hours early on Saturday the Marlin Luanda's crew battled a blaze in one cargo tank on the vessel's starboard side, Trafigura's said in a statement.

By Saturday afternoon, the blaze was extinguished and all crew were safe, Trafigura said. (Excerpt from Reuters)

UN agency condemns aid halt over alleged help for Hamas attacks

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he Head of the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees UNRWA has urged the countries that halted funding to reconsider their "shocking" decision.

"UNRWA is the primary humanitarian agency in Gaza, with over two million people depending on it for their sheer survival," Philippe Lazzarini said.

Nine countries, including the United Kingdom, earlier paused funding the agency.

They acted over allegations that some UNRWA staff were involved in the October 7 deadly Hamas attacks on Israel.

The agency later announced it was sacking those employees.

The countries that have now suspended fund-

ing UNRWA are Australia, Canada, Finland, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland, the UK, and the US. Created in 1949, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency, UNRWA, is the biggest UN agency operating in Gaza. It provides healthcare, education and other humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. It employs around 13,000 people inside Gaza.

Since Israel began its offensive in response to the Hamas attacks UNRWA has used its facilities across Gaza to shelter hundreds of thousands of displaced civilians.

The information on UNRWA employees' alleged

UNRWA aid services help about two-thirds of Gaza's 2.3 million population

involvement in the Hamas attacks was supplied by Israel, which has long accused different branches of the UN – including UNRWA – of bias and even of antisemitism.

In a statement on Saturday, Lazzarini said: "It is shocking to see a sus-

pension of funds to the agency in reaction to allegations against a small group of staff, especially given the immediate action that UNRWA took by terminating their contracts and asking for a transparent independent investigation.?

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Putin derides 'Russophobia' in Europe at World War Two memorial

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ussian President Vladimir Putin castigated Europe on Saturday for "Russophobia" and criticised the Baltic States over human rights at the unveiling of a World War Two memorial.

Since he sent Russian troops into Ukraine nearly two years ago, Putin has been making comparisons with the fight against the Nazis in order to rally his nation.

"The regime in Kyiv exalts Hitler's accomplices, the SS men ... In a number of European countries, Russophobia is promoted as state policy," Putin said in the Leningrad region for the 80th anniversary of the end of the Nazi siege.

The Germans' aims then were to steal the Soviet Union's resources and eliminate its people, he said.

Ukraine, which was part of the Soviet Union and it-

self suffered devastation at the hands of Hitler's forces, rejects comparisons as spurious pretexts for a war of conquest.

In his speech, Putin also lambasted the Baltic States over human rights.

Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania – ruled from Moscow during the Cold War but now members of the European Union and NATO military alliance – have been among the stron-

gest critics of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

"In the Baltic states, tens of thousands of people are declared subhuman, deprived of their most basic rights, and subjected to persecution," Putin said, referring to migration crackdowns. Moscow has repeatedly accused the Baltic nations of xenophobia and treating Russian minorities as "second-class". (Excerpt from Reuters)

“Taiwan independence” Gunmen in Iran kill 9 World's largest cruise an obstacle to China-US Pakistanis days after ship sets sail from Miami relations, says Beijing tit-for-tat strikes

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he world's largest cruise ship has set sail from Miami, Florida, on its maiden voyage, amid concerns about the vessel's methane emissions.

The 365m-long (1197 ft) Icon of the Seas has 20 decks and can house a maximum of 7600 passengers. It is owned by Royal Caribbean Group.

The vessel is going on a seven-day island-hopping voyage in the tropics.

But environmentalists warn that the liquefied natural gas-powered ship will leak harmful methane into the air.

"It's a step in the wrong direction," Bryan Comer, director of the Marine Programme at the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), was quoted as saying by Reuters news agency.

"We would estimate that using LNG as a marine fuel emits over 120 per

cent more life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions than marine gas oil," he said.

Earlier this week, the ICCT released a report, arguing that methane emissions from LNG-fuelled ships were higher than current regulations assumed.

LNG burns more cleanly than traditional marine fuels such as fuel oil, but there is a risk of leakage.

A powerful greenhouse gas, methane in the atmosphere traps 80 times more heat than carbon dioxide over 20 years. Cutting these emissions is seen as crucial to slowing down global warming.

A Royal Caribbean spokesperson is quoted by media outlets as saying that Icon of the Seas is 24 per cent more energy efficient than required by the International Maritime Organisation for modern ships. The company plans to introduce a net-zero ship by 2035. (Excerpt from BBC News)

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hinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and United States National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan have held talks aimed at keeping in contact, both sides said, with Wang stressing that “Taiwan independence” posed the biggest risk to Sino-US ties.

Wang and Sullivan met in Bangkok, Thailand, on Saturday, just more than two months after US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping met on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in San Francisco.

The two “had candid, substantive and fruitful strategic communication on implementing the consensus reach at the San Francisco meeting … and on properly handling important and sensitive issues in China-US relations,” China’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

The White House said that the meeting between the officials was “part of the

effort to maintain open lines of communication” between the two countries.

It added that “Sullivan stressed that although the United States and China are in competition, both countries need to prevent it from veering into conflict or confrontation”.

Beijing and Washington have previously clashed on issues related to technology, trade, human rights, and Taiwan, which China claims as its territory.

The recent Taiwanese election saw the Democratic Progressive Party (DDP) secure a third term. The DPP is resistant to China’s claim over Taiwan.

This week, two US lawmakers met Taiwan’s new leader, Lai Ching-te, to reaffirm Washington’s support for the self-governing island.

This was the second group to arrive in Taiwan since the election after Biden sent an unofficial delegation to congratulate Lai two days after the vote. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

U

nidentified gunmen killed nine Pakistani workers in a restive southeastern border area of Iran on Saturday, Pakistan's Ambassador and Iranian State media said, amid efforts by the two countries to mend ties after tit-for-tat attacks.

"Deeply shocked by horrifying killing of nine Pakistanis in Saravan.

Embassy will extend full support to bereaved families," the Pakistani Ambassador to Tehran, Muhammad Mudassir Tipu, said on the X platform. "We called upon Iran to extend full cooperation in the matter."

Iranian State media said Police were looking for the three gunmen who escaped after the shooting.

The Baluch rights group Haalvash said on its website that the victims were Pakistani labourers who lived at an auto repair shop where they worked. Three others were wounded, it

said.

State media said no individuals or groups had claimed responsibility for the shootings in Saravan in Sistan-Baluchestan province.

"It is a horrifying and despicable incident and we condemn it unequivocally," Pakistani Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said. "We are in touch with Iranian authorities and have underscored the need to immediately investigate the incident and hold to account those involved."

The shooting occurred ahead of a planned visit on Monday to Pakistan by Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani condemned the shootings.

"Iran and Pakistan won't allow enemies to damage the brotherly ties between the two countries," he said in a statement. (Excerpt from Reuters)

36

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024

Get in touch with people you can trust to give you good (March 21advice.

Do what you can to April 19) make a difference. Avoid situations that could weaken your position. Protect your reputation and speak the truth.

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Maintain a friendly, upTAURUS beat attitude. Go after some(April 20thing that makes you hapMay 20) py, and don’t hold back when sharing your feelings or intentions. Embrace love and self-improvement.

Emotions will surface if GEMINI (MAY 28- you enter a fraught conversation. Listen carefully, but June 20) don’t agree to anything that sounds suspicious. Take the high road and avoid outside interference.

Speak your mind and make CANCER things happen. Turn your (June 21ideas into something tangible, July 22) and you will create interest in your activities. Equality will be the key to success when considering a joint venture.

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Don’t follow the crowd.

Revisit how you feel about certain relationships.

Distance yourself from people who tempt you to be overindulgent. Don’t go into debt to impress someone.

Stop hesitating and start doing. You have so much to (Aug. 23- gain if you are ready to do Sept. 22) what excites you. The opportunities that await you will be worth the effort of chasing them.

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Make domestic changes LIBRA that will ease stress and low(Sept. 23er your cost of living. Don’t arOct. 23) gue over something you can’t control. Protect yourself from illness or injury. Focus on personal improvements.

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Peanuts

You’ll make progress if you step up and take charge.

Your insight and determination will far outshine what anyone else has to offer. Once you put yourself out there, you will enjoy the spotlight.

SAGITTARIUS Check details with care.

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CAPRICORN Surround yourself with people who motivate you.

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024

37

GCB U15 tournament to bowl off today at QC, Malteenoes Grounds

T

he Guyana Cricket Board’s (GCB’s) Under-15 Intercounty tournament is set to commence today at two venues in Georgetown.

At the Queen’s College ground at Thomas Lands and Camp Road, Demerara’s U15 team will take on the Select XI, while further up Thomas Lands, at Malteenoes Sports Club Ground, Berbice and Essequibo will do battle.

The full squads for each team are listed below:

Essequibo’s U15 Team

The Berbice U15 Team

Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) U15 Team Adrian Hetymer (Captain), Arif Bacchus, Antonio DePaul, Chamesh Seenauth, Mathew Pereira, Richard Ramdeholl, Lakeram Singh, Ravin Boodwah, Sohail Mohamed (w/k), Rafael McKenzie, Feaaz Baksh, Gibran Yacoob, Arif Khan v/c, Kumulchan Ramnarais and Jayhayden Rohleher.

Standbys: Tameshwar Deonandan, Akash Sooklall, Gilbert Griffith, Arif

Marimutoo, Ahil Hemraj.

Select XI U15 Team: Tameshwar Deonandan (Captain), Danvir Seegobin (VC), Arif Marimutoo, Shahid Ramzan, Ravid Fredricks, Ethan Silas, Rovaldo Parciara, Aarav Sukhram, Usain Fredricks, Joseph Bolo, Gilbert Griffith, Ahil Hemraj, Joshua Charles, Patrice France and Akash Sooklall.

Standbys: Julian Craig, Patrice Fraser, Joshua Charles, Rovaldo Parciara, Danvir Seegobin

Essequibo U15 Team: Elisha Ramdat (Captain), Makayah Holmes, Omarin Smith, Bomesh Lall, Eron Benjamin, Timothy Burton, Shazim Mohamed, Darrius Pearson, Jathniel Nurse (VC), Zaheer Ramkissoon, Justin Dowlin, Dennis Crossman, Jeremiah Melville, Francis Gurahoo and Johnathan Bharry.

Standbys: Aarav Sukhram, Usain Fredricks, Ethan Silas, Joseph Bolo, Eldon Lewis and Ravid Fredricks

Demerara U15 Team Emmanuel Lewis (Captain), Parmeshwar Ram, Khush Seegobin, Trilok Nanan, Shamar Apple, Munesh Outar, Mickel Sharma, Brandon Henry, Ravin Singh, Ravin Persaud, Narendra Isurdeen, Anek Haimnarine, Reaz Latif and Darwin LaRose.

Standbys: Samuel Barkoye, Joshua Collette, Ravindra Singh, Mahendra Mohan, Shane Shivram and Ruel Dindyal.

See below for

full fixtures: Sunday 1/28/2024: Select XI vs Demerara at QC Sunday 1/28/2024: Essequibo vs Berbice at Malteenoes Ground Tuesday 1/30/2024:Essequibo vs Demerara at DCC Tuesday 1/30/2024: Berbice vs Selector XI at Malteenoes Thursday 2/1/2024:Demerara vs Berbice at DCC Thursday 2/1/2024: Select XI vs Essequibo at Malteenoes.

Jockey Patrick upbeat ahead of Jumbo Jet’s Mashramani horse race meet J

ockey Nicholas Patrick is in full preparation mode for the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee’s grand Mashramani horse-race meet at Rising Sun Turf Club, West Coast Berbice.

Eight races are on the cards for the February 25 event, and close to Gy$10M will be up for grabs. Feature event of this meet is an Open race to be run over 1600 metres. The horse emerging top horse would bag GY$2M. While Jockey Patrick is excited to get going, he also welcomed the forward movement of the legislation in Guyana’s horse racing. He believes this would further enhance the sport in Guyana.

“That is going to be perfect! when the legislation passed and the game goes up, you will get more horses and the stakes are going to go up.

More people will go into racing,” Patrick said about the prospective introduction of the legislation.

In terms of preparation, Patrick has expressed his

readiness for the February 25 race meet.

“We have been taking it light so far. We were preparing for the January 28 race, but that was cancelled; but we are ready for the next race,” the jockey said.

Reflecting on 2023, Patrick said: “If I have to rate myself, as it relates to fitness and feeling, I would say I am 80% there. Last year was not a bad year for me. I had fun last year, I rode couple of winners for the big races, especially Bossalina and Amazing Grace. She gave me a couple of wins as well, and I must say thank you to the owners and trainers.”

Jockey Nicholas Patrick rocking the Guyana colours at a recent racing event

Mashramani race meet programme: RACE 1: OPEN to all imported & locally bred horses — 1600M- Purse: $3,750,000: 1st: $2,000,000 – 2nd: $1,000,000 – 3rd: $500,000 – 4th: $250,000 Entry fee: $232, 500 Late Entry Fee: $310,000 RACE 2: West Indianbred 4 Y.O & W.I. 3-yr old horses –1600MPurse:

$1,875,000 1st: $1,000,000 – 2nd: $500,000 – 3rd: $250,000 – 4th: $125,000. Entry fee: $116,250 Late Entry Fee: $155,000 RACE 3: Three-year-old Guyana-bred non winners of two races — 1400M- Purse: $1,125,000 1st: $600,000 – 2nd: $300,000 – 3rd: $150,000 – 4th: $75,000 Entry fee: $69,750 Late Entry Fee:

$93,000 RACE 4: G Class Horses.

Open to F3. & also F1 & F2 non earners in their last start horses — 1400M- NORTH AMERICA IMPORTED 3YR & UP COLTS 126LB, FILLIES 123LB. W.I. & LOCALLY BRED COLTS & FILLIES 15LB ALLOWANCE. Purse: $750,000 1st: $400,000 – 2nd:

$200,000 – 3rd: $100,000 – 4th: $50,000 Entry fee: $46,500 Late Entry Fee: $62,000 RACE 5: i-Class Horses & Open to First time starter – West Indian-bred 3 Y.O & Also open to H3 non earners in last two start, or h3 horses who has not earn since August 2023. W.I. bred colts 126lb, fillies 123. W.I.

Bred 3yr old colts 121LB, fillies 119. Locally Bred colts 111LB, fillies 108LB. -1,100M W.I. BRED Colts 126 fillies 123.

Guy Bred colts 111, fillies and mares 108. Purse: $656,250. 1st: $350,000 – 2nd: $175,000 – 3rd: $87,500 – 4th: $43,750 Entry fee: $40,688.

Late Entry Fee: $54,250 RACE 6: J3 & Lower horses — 1400M- Purse; $609,375.

1st: $325,000 – 2nd: $162,500 – 3rd: $81,250 – 4th: $40,625 Entry fee: $37,780. Late Entry Fee: $50,375 RACE 7: L class horses & open to J3 first time starters1400M – Purse: $562,500.

1st: $300,000 – 2nd: $150,000 – 3rd: $75,000 – 4th: $37,500.

Entry fee: $34,875 Late Entry Fee: $46,500 RACE 8: L class non earners of $200,000 or L class horses who has not earn since August 2023 & also open to J3 first time starters – 1400MPurse: $375,000. 1st: $200,000 – 2nd: $100,000 – 3rd: $50,000 – 4th: $25,000 Entry Fee: $23,250 Late Entry Fee: $31,000

38

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024

GHE 4-Day squad announced – Anderson Captain, Nandu Vice Captain

F

illing the void that was created by Leon Johnson’s retirement at the end of the 2023 4-Day season; star batsman Kevlon Anderson will make his debut as Captain of the Guyana Harpy Eagles 4-Day team ahead of the upcoming CWI Regional 4-Day Championships.

The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) has named a strong unit led by the former West Indies Under-19 batsman and consisting of a few familiar faces along with a new crop of players.

Spinner Steven Sankar will be among the new faces in the team, following a breakthrough year with the ball at domestic level. Opener Raymon Perez, following his immaculate batting form which rolled over from 2023, will get his chance to play at the senior level.

In-form fast-bowling all-rounder Ronaldo Alimohamed is the third fresh face in the Harpy Eagles side, having played 50-Over cricket for Guyana

Matthew Nandu will operate in the Vice Captain role

at the senior level.

Alimohamed, Perez and Sankar will likely make their debut, while middle-order batsman Akshaya Persaud makes a return to the Harpy Eagles unit following his return to form across all formats.

Young batting sensation Matthew Nandu will be Anderson’s deputy, as they lead a well-balanced side featuring a few veterans among the new faces.

First-Class crick-

et’s leading spinner, Veerasammy Permaul, Anthony Adams and West Indies latest Test player, Kevin Sinclair, will run the spinners show for Eagles.

Fast-bowler Ronsford Beaton, Nial Smith and Alimohamed will make up the frontline seam unit, which adds to their star-studded batch of spin bowlers.

Test opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Nandu, Sinclair, Perez, Anderson,

Raymond Perez impressed during the practice matches and secured a spot in the team

Persaud will look to carry the Eagles batting unit.

Kemol Savory will be the wicket-keeper for the first two rounds, until Tevin Imlach returns from West Indies duties. Savory is also expected to play a key role in the batting department.

The Harpy Eagles Head Coach is Ryan Hercules and his Assistant is Coach Garvin Nedd; they have Ryerson Bhagoo as their Analyst and Albert Clements as Manager.

Meanwhile, this year’s 4-Day Championship will have a significant increase in prize money, as the winning team will pocket US$250,000, while the runners-up will receive US$100,000.

The GHE commence their title defense when the West Indies Championship bowls off in St Kitts on February 7.

GHE is set to face Trinidad and Tobago Red Force at Conaree Cricket Centre in round 1.

U20 Golden Jags trials conclude today

…talented players in pool - Head Coach

C

ommencing on February 23rd, Guyana’s Male Under-20 team will come up against 4 other teams in pursuit of a spot in the CONCACAF Under-20 Championships.

Guyana was drawn in Group B for the competition, alongside the likes of El Salvador, Antigua and

here and first was to kind of establish the culture that we want within the group.

We spoke about trust, that was this cycle that we’re in.

Our expectation is to make sure that we build a cohesive group that is a representation of the Guyanese people and the country of Guyana,” the Head Coach related.

The U20 trials boasts a

mixture of local and international talents that were invited to show off their skills for the coaching staff. In his assessment of the group, the Head Coach noted that there is an abundance of talent.

McKinnon said about his observations “I think we have talented players, when I speak about talent, we have players who have the creativity, they’re technical but one of the things that even as coaches that needs to be embraced, is the soccer

With less than a month to go before the qualifying tournament’s commencement, in how he intends to get the best out of his players, McKinnon lamented adjustment and utilizing strengths as key to their preparation.

“I think one of the things we try to do was, we simplify the principle based on the culture of players that we believe that we have. So, we try to simplify that and make it very clear and make it something, not just what

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Head Coach Kayode McKinnon

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Over the past week, hopefuls for the Junior Golden Jaguars have been competing for a spot in the National team that will represent the Land of Many Waters.

Speaking with this newscast at one of those sessions, Under-20 Head Coach Kayode McKinnon shared initial expectations and what he hopes to get out of the young group.

“Fantastic! We got in

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education, the football education. It’s an ongoing process.

“You know, when new ideas come, it takes a time for players to adjust and adapt; but from the perspective of the physicality and the technical proficiency, I think my assessment of that is we’re right there,” he went on to add.

Snapshot from the U20 national team trials

Guyana Harpy Eagles 4-Day team: Kevlon Anderson (Cpt), Matthew Nandu (VC), Nial Smith, Veerasammy Permaul, Anthony Adams, Kevin Sinclair, Ronsford Beaton, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Akshaya Persaud, Raymon Perez, Ronaldo Alimohamed, Steven Sankar and Kemol Savory.

Under the new Cricket West Indies ‘Player Movement Policy’ each territory is required to name six priority players. The GHE’s six priority players will be announced shortly.

we’re talking about, but what they’re seeing every day. Every practice, we’re very consistent with the terminologies that we’re using to kind of rewire their brain to get that understanding.

So, I think that was one of the ways we dealt with it, but time is something that you want more of it,” the Coach divulged.

“Like I said to the boys, it’s important that we play the cards that we’re being dealt, and we don’t worry too much about the excuses. We know we’re a resilient people, we know we’re a fearless people, we have to use what our strengths are and utilize that in our preparation.”

Based on what he’s seen over the past week, the Head Coach revealed that his team is close to deciding on their final squad.

The Head Coach revealed, “We’re right there and we know we don’t have time. So, we as a staff, we had to be really precise about what we’re looking for in this not-so-ideal situation,

but we had to set a measurement, we had to set a foundation of what will govern this team, and I think (that) over this week, we’ve been able to see where the players are psychologically, where they are technically, what we can work with from a tactical position and from a technical position.”

After the trial’s conclusion today, the international players will return home, after which the selected players will return for a camp that is set to begin on February 9th and run until the team departs Guyana for the tournament on February 21st. the overseas-based coaches, including Head Coach McKinnon, are expected to leave and return for the camp in February.

Guyana’s group action will go down in Antigua and Barbuda at the ABFA Technical Centre in Piggotts.

The U20 CONCACAF Championship Qualifiers will run from February 23rd to March 2nd.

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39

Aussies in control after Hazlewood, Lyon set up 216-run chase

S

teven Smith made a positive start to Australia’s chase of 216, but a shorthanded West Indies attack hit back late on day three to breathe life anew into the second Test at the Gabba.

Australia reached stumps at 60 for 2 and need a further 156 runs to claim a sweep of the home Test summer.

But this unpredictable contest may have more twists and turns with heavy showers forecast on days four and five due to the after-effects of Cyclone Kirrily.

New-ball bowlers Kemar Roach and Alzarri Joseph started sluggishly and failed to make the most of favourable conditions under lights.

Australia rattled off 24 runs before opener Usman Khawaja tickled Alzarri

on the toe on his right foot by an inswinging yorker from Mitchell Starc. It was initially given out lbw but Starc had overstepped. Joseph had to retire hurt to end a West Indies second innings that fell away.

They had moved to 148 for 4, with a lead of 170, when the in-form Kavem Hodge hit to Travis Head at forward shortleg and took a couple of steps

Alzarri Joseph celebrating the wicket of Usman Khawaja

Greaves squared up Marnus Labuschagne, whose edge was brilliantly snaffled by Kevin Sinclair in the slips.

Not for the first time in his debut Test has Sinclair celebrated by crossing his arms

struck on the pads by Greaves, but West Indies were unsuccessful in their review. He then edged the next delivery in front of second slip.

In contrast, Smith looked technically sound and hit the ball crisply to finish unbeaten on 33 from 56 balls.

It was a resilient effort from West Indies, who were without quick Shamar Joseph after he was struck

Steven Smith pulling forward of square

Kirk McKenzie played a flurry of check-drives down the ground

Joseph down the leg side.

West Indies’ hopes of ending a two-decade Test drought against Australia were further raised when Justin

after he rose from the turf.

Smith and Cameron Green survived a probing examination before stumps.

Green was all at sea and

Alick Athanaze pulling through the legside

Archery Guyana represented at 20th Lancaster Archery Classic T

wo of Archery Guyana’s members, Jeewanram Persaud and Mehandra Chatargum, are in the USA competing in the 20th edition of the Lancaster Archery Classic 2024, hosted at the Spooky Nook Sports Complex in Manheim, Pennsylvania, the largest indoor sports complex in the United States, and is situated just outside

forward with the stroke, and Head quickly flicked the ball at the stumps.

A desperate Hodge dove back but his bat was in the air when the ball hit the stumps in what might prove a match-turning moment.

It followed a trend where West Indies lost wickets almost out of nowhere and were left to rue four of their top six batters scoring between 29

of Lancaster. The Classic attracts archers from all over the world every year during the winter season.

Persaud and Chatargum are shooting in the Men’s Barebow Division against some of the world’s biggest names in barebow, and have been meeting and making friends with some of them.

Shooting for a top score of

SCOREBOARD

Jeewanram Persaud with Senior Men’s Barebow champ Lee Wilkins

Michael Chatargum with Recurve World Champion Brady Ellison

and 41 but not kicking on.

No. 3 Kirk McKenzie, who drove well during his stay, top-scored with 41 and along with Alick Athanaze played attractively and threatened substantial scores before they both fell to Nathan Lyon either side of the dinner break.

Australia’s attack toiled in oppressive conditions, but managed to conjure breakthroughs at crucial junctures much like they did when challenged against Pakistan earlier in the summer.

With the quicks feeling the effects of the hot and humid weather, Lyon was relied upon, and he threatened on a ground he has a terrific record at. Bowling quicker than usual, Lyon produced sharp turn and bounce to finish with 3 for 42 from 22 overs.

After a frenetic day two, the match returned to normalcy as the surface settled and West Indies eyed batting long. Resuming at 13 for 1, West Indies needed to survive

the new ball onslaught and reached the 25-over mark, after which batting has proven easier, relatively unscathed.

But the surface did not offer as much zip as it did late on day two, when Australia had declared 22 runs behind and Josh Hazlewood had sent back Tagenarine Chanderpaul.

McKenzie motored along to thwart Australia’s pace attack. In contrast, skipper Kraigg Brathwaite was anchored to the crease and scored just six runs off his first 33 balls before whacking Starc uppishly through the covers for his first boundary of the innings.

The batters defied probing hard-length bowling from Pat Cummins and notched a half-century stand before Brathwaite chipped Green to cover.

McKenzie slowed down, and on his 50th delivery, he missed an attempted sweep to be trapped lbw on Lyon’s second delivery. McKenzie decided to review, having been hit high on his back leg, but ball tracking showed it to be clipping the off bail, and the decision was upheld.

Athanaze, who has had limited impact in the series, showed glimpses of why he is highly rated with several attractive strokes, and combined well with Hodge after dinner to rattle Australia.

Australia’s frustrations boiled over when Mitchell Marsh made a hash of a fielding attempt leading to Lyon, the bowler, gesticulating in annoyance.

But Lyon’s mood soon brightened when he dismissed Athanaze on 35 after tossing up a delivery that was edged to slip, where Smith took a sharp catch.

It was a relief for Smith, who had earlier in the innings dropped Athanaze and Brathwaite, as West Indies fell away before their late fightback left the match delicately poised. (ESPNCricinfo)

660, Persaud shot his ranking score of 515 on Thursday 25th January, while Chatargum shot his ranking score of 502 on Friday 26th January.

Persaud came in at #48, making it into the eliminations bracket, while Chatargum came in at #72, falling just outside of the elimination, which ends at Archer Number 64.

The elimination rounds on Saturday saw Persaud go up against John Dawson of

the USA, with Dawson gaining just 2 points to win 100-98.

The Classic continued with the shoot-up finals on Saturday and today, Sunday.

The Board of Directors of Archery Guyana convey their congratulations to both Archers for their participation, and are proud of our 2 barebow archers who represented the country at this huge event, and wish them safe travel back home.

West Indies 2nd Innings Kraigg Brathwaite (c) c Labuschagne b Green 16 Tagenarine Chanderpaul c †Carey b Hazlewood 4 Kirk McKenzie lbw b Lyon 41 Alick Athanaze c Smith b Lyon 35 Kavem Hodge run out (Head) 29 Justin Greaves c †Carey b Hazlewood 33 Joshua Da Silva † c Green b Starc 7 Kevin Sinclair not out 14 Alzarri Joseph c Smith b Hazlewood 0 Kemar Roach lbw b Lyon 1 Shamar Joseph retired hurt 3 Extras (b 4, lb 3, nb 3) 10 TOTAL 72.3 Ov (RR: 2.66) 193 Fall of wickets: 1-13 (Tagenarine Chanderpaul, 7.3 ov), 2-63 (Kraigg Brathwaite, 19.4 ov), 3-86 (Kirk McKenzie, 25.2 ov), 4-123 (Alick Athanaze, 41.2 ov), 5-148 (Kavem Hodge, 49.6 ov), 6-157 (Joshua Da Silva, 52.2 ov), 7-184 (Justin Greaves, 62.4 ov), 8-184

(Alzarri Joseph, 64.2 ov), 9-185 (Kemar Roach, 69.1 ov), 9-193* (Shamar Joseph, retired hurt) • BOWLING O-M-R-W Mitchell Starc 14.3-3-45-1 Josh Hazlewood 14-5-23-3 Pat Cummins 12-1-39-0 Cameron Green 10-2-37-1 Nathan Lyon 22-6-42-3 Australia 2nd Innings (T: 216 runs) Steven Smith not out 33 Usman Khawaja c †Da Silva b AS Joseph 10 Marnus Labuschagne c Sinclair b Greaves 5 Cameron Green not out 9 Extras (nb 2, w 1) 3 TOTAL 19 Ov (RR: 3.15) 60/2 Yet to bat: Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey †, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins (c), Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood Fall of wickets: 1-24 (Usman Khawaja, 5.6 ov), 2-42 (Marnus Labuschagne, 10.2 ov) • BOWLING O-M-R-W Kemar Roach 6-0-18-0 Alzarri Joseph 6-1-19-1 Justin Greaves 7-0-23-1

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024

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

Pg 38

Pg 38

GHE 4-Day squad announced trials conclude today

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