Guyana Times - Tuesday, August 8, 2023

Central Govt stands as partner in development – Pres Ali tells new Mayors

…Mayors, Deputy Mayors take oath of office

Calling for a fresh approach to governance that will advance services at the local level, President Ali has called on new leaders from the ten townships to put their political affiliation aside and harmonise with the Administration’s aggressive developmental agenda.

The Head of State’s charge came as he administered the oath of office to newly-minted Mayors and Deputy Mayors on Monday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), coming out of the Local Government Elections back in June.

He underscored that Town Councils serve as a vital component of local authority, with the expectation of upholding good governance and enabling thriving communities.

“We must all, regardless

of political affiliation, work together to improve services to communities. There are no winners when communities and public assets are neglected or fall into decay. I offer a hand of friendship and support to all Local Government bodies. Central Government stands as a partner in development,” Ali told the new officials.

The Mayors and Deputy Mayors sworn-in were Alfred Mentore and Denise Miller for Georgetown; Wainwright McIntosh and Kirk Fraser for New Amsterdam; Trevi Leung and Liane Persaud for Mabarauma; Devin Mohan and Lorna Fitzallen for Anna Regina; John Macedo and Indira Singh for Lethem; Sharma Solomon and Dominique Blair for Linden; Dave Budhu and Roydell Lewis for Rose Hall; Imran Amin

and Satyanand Ramraj for Corriverton; Martin Murray and Gail Persaud for Bartica; and Eslyn RomascindoHussain and Akita John for Mahdia, respectively.

Now that the elections are over, Ali said it is time to work collectively and pursue the advancement of people across the length and breadth of the country. He also warned of the consequences of failures.

“Failure to deliver on this mandate could lead to detachment from national development and estrangement from the varying constituents they represent. A fresh approach to governance is now essential, one which aligns with the needs of modern times. Financial accountability, diligence in revenue collection, protection and preservation of public assets, timely and effi-

cient services, greater responsiveness to citizens and an end to internal discord are paramount.”

In the last three years, Government’s efforts have focused on delivering massive transformation across all sectors, the President noted, adding that local officials must understand this push and the need to act expeditiously.

“It is very important that our Local Government or municipalities understand the driven-based policy agenda of the Government and understand the national priorities and imperatives that must be advanced in taking us forward as a nation. We don’t have the luxury of time to indulge in sideshows. Our time is spent and must be spent on the magnitude of the task ahead of us,” Ali voiced.

Riding on the crest of eco-

nomic and social transformation, this decade will be one of rapid growth and will see the establishment of a more diversified and resilient economy. This, Ali said, would build on an integrated framework that focuses on sustainability, resilience and competitiveness of the economy.

“We are building the foundation and setting the framework for a country 2030 and beyond, that will advance development not only for those living here but for this entire region; a country that will play a leading role in food, energy and climate crisis of the world.”

He said this progress must be manifested at all levels of the system of Government: national, regional and local.

“This is why Local Government is so important. It is vital to ensuring that the

dividends of development permeate through our towns, villages and communities. Citizens rightfully expect positive changes to emerge from the just-concluded Local Government Elections. It is for the respective councils to deliver on these aspirations, especially in the areas of community infrastructure, drainage, markets, daycare centres, waste disposal, better services and community enhancement.”

“Our constitution reminds us that sovereignty originates and belongs to the people. Democratic will of the people is exercised through free, fair and credible elections and is therefore sovereign and must never be derailed or become a victim of indifference or contempt,” he shared in his address.

(G12)

President Irfaan Ali flanked by the Mayors after the swearing in ceremony

Deputy Mayors with President Irfaan Ali at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Tuesday, Aug 8 – 22:00h – 23:30h and Wednesday, Aug 9 –11:30h

– 12:30h and 23:00h – 00:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Tuesday, Aug 8 – 09:25h

– 10:55h and Wednesday, Aug 9 – 10:35h – 12:05h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

There will be sunshine and thundery showers during the day. Expect thundery showers and partly cloudy skies at night. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to East South-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 3.57 metres.

High Tide: 09:31h and 21:51h reaching maximum heights of 2.35 metres and 2.35 metres.

Low Tide: 15:23h reaching a minimum height of 0.92 metre.

Investments ramping up in infrastructure, social programmes – Ashni Singh

…says Govt equipping Guyanese to benefit long term from oil & gas

As Guyana’s oil and gas industry continues to grow, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government is continuing to ramp up investments in infrastructure and social programmes, according to Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh.

During a recent broadcast interview, Dr Singh reflected on the Government’s three years in office. Specifically, he noted that during that time, the Government has continued to ramp up its spending in infrastructure and social programmes, alongside the oil and gas sector.

“You’re already seeing ramped up investments in infrastructure, ramped up investments in social programmes and spending in social programmes. Ramped up investments in the things that matter in terms of equipping people to take advantage of the oil and gas sector.”

“So here, for example, the Guyana Technical Training College, a new oil and gas institute being built to train Guyanese people to take advantage of oil and gas opportunities that are emerging. We’re building that right now in Port Mourant,” the Finance Minister said.

LOTTERY NUMBERS

According to the Minister, the Government wants to achieve more than accolades on the international stage. They want to ensure the Guyanese people can benefit from the oil and gas sector in a long term, sustainable way.

“Our predominant objective is to ensure that the Guyanese people are able to realise in a sustainable, long-term manner, not in a reckless, opportunistic, short-term manner, lasting benefits from the endowment of natural resources that we have as a country,” Dr Singh added.

It was recently revealed by the Local Content Secretariat that 1500 Guyanese were hired in the oil and gas sector last year alone. Additionally, 2700 Guyanese in total were employed as of 2022 in the various careers the sector has to offer. The Local Content Secretariat also revealed that approximately 850 Guyanese companies and businesses registered in 2022.

According to the secretariat, the time it takes companies and operators to pay locals, a thorny issue for businesses, has also been addressed. This time period, according to the secretariat, has been reduced

from 45 to 30 days. There had been numerous complaints of prolonged delays, as much as 90 days, for the payment of goods supplied or services rendered to major players in the oil and gas sector – an issue which had been engaging the Government’s attention.

As a result, the Natural Resources Ministry, through the Local Content Secretariat, had informed companies operating in the petroleum sector that their five-year Local Content Master Plans, which have to be submitted by year-end for approval, must stipulate a max 45-day payment

period upon the correct receipt of an invoice to allow Guyanese companies timely and appropriate access to contract and payment terms that facilitate competitive funding and expansion.

To this end, last year the Natural Resources Ministry started approving the Local Content Master Plans of tier-one contractors, including SBM Offshore and Halliburton among others, who were complying with this new condition.

According to the Ministry, this amendment to the five-year Local Content Mater Plan is enforceable by law and will

now see contractors and sub-contractors operating in the nation’s oil and gas sector issuing payment to Guyanese suppliers within 30 to 45 days following the receipt of a correct invoice.

After being passed in the National Assembly in December 2021, the Local Content Act was enacted in January 2022. The Act lays out 40 different services that oil and gas companies and their subcontractors must procure from Guyanese companies.

These include 90 per cent of office space rental and accommodation services; 90 per cent of janitorial services, laundry and catering services; 95 per cent pest control services; 100 per cent local insurance services; 75 per cent local supply of food; and 90 per cent local accounting services.

The Local Content Act mandates penalties, such as fines ranging from $5 million to $50 million, for oil and gas companies and their sub-contractors who fail to meet the minimum targets of the legislation, as well as those who are in breach of the Act. (G3)

Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Persuasive approaches to drivers

In less than 48 hours, three persons have died on our roadways in horrific accidents in three separate parts of our country – East Bank Demerara; West Coast Berbice and Linden-Soesdyke Highway.

This comes on the heels of efforts by the Guyana Police Force along with multiple stakeholders in the “Respect the Road” campaign that is focusing on education and enforcement.

The sudden and shocking death of someone close, especially due to an accident, can never be easy. The ensuing excruciating pain and mental trauma that are inflicted on surviving relatives can be unbearable.

In a fleeting moment, families are plunged into sadness and despair, having received the dreadful news that an accident took the life of someone dear to them. That’s the painful result and often, its real and lingering impact may be hidden from the spotlight of the media.

The reality is, people, including those who survive an accident, suffer in unimaginable ways. The recent spate of accidents, and more so the six persons who died in a horrific accident over the weekend in Berbice even prompted some to ask the question, how many more? One interpretation from that simple question speaks to whether lessons are being learnt from accidents over time. In other words, how many more have to die before better care is taken while using the roadways?

Given what has been taking place on our roadways, one could not be faulted for concluding that the results of the accidents may not have inspired more responsible behaviour.

There is uncertainty as to whether the mindsets of the regular errant drivers have been impacted, or have they learnt anything from what were obviously painful experiences of others. Judging from what continues to take place on the roadways, it seems clear that many drivers have not learnt or are clearly refusing to even be bothered by the harrowing fatal accidents.

On a daily basis, many drivers use the roadways in a very reckless manner thereby endangering occupants and other road users; the least, themselves. It becomes painful even to see how they manoeuvre, seemingly, without an iota of care for others. Again, it brings into question the role of law enforcement to try and curb such irresponsible behaviour, especially since some traffic violations do occur in the presence of Police. Many of those violations involve a minibus.

The general public is hurting and is pleading for help. Some time ago, a 12-year-old schoolgirl was killed in a horrifying accident at Nismes, West Bank Demerara. Despite the emotional devastation, her mother had made a public plea for passengers to demand being let out of a minibus that is speeding or from one in which the driver is imbibing alcoholic beverage.

In addition, the suggestion for undercover cops to pose as passengers is repeated. That would help to authenticate, if nothing else is working, violations of speeding, reckless driving and overloading among others.

Since the launched “Respect the Road” campaign, it is obvious that the Police are holistically demonstrating the sense of commitment to genuinely collaborate with members of the public to collectively tackle the situation. This is even more obvious as Police are seen daily clamping down on errant drivers.

There seems to be a large gap between the road safety campaigns and the practice of drivers. The severity of the carnage on our roadways seems to not have any impact on reckless drivers. Therefore, there is need now to tailor these safety campaigns to target drivers’ sense of safe behaviours and risk awareness with the use of persuasive approaches.

It is time that drivers and reckless road users ask themselves the question of “how many more” will die or be injured before careful use of the roadways and it no longer falls on deaf ears.

Dr Luncheon was a man with an exceptional mind

Dear Editor,

I am motivated to pen these few lines, partly because I’ve noticed some persons on social media etc casting aspersions on the late Dr Luncheon. I am yet to see any of those contributors, local or in the diaspora, attest that he or she was in the room, or have first-hand knowledge of the alleged societal wrongdoings they are parroting. I feel that this sordid trend of wanton abuse of social media for character assassination could become counterproductive if continued to snowball unrestrained. So dear readers, kindly permit me to share some cherished thoughts of Dr Luncheon from a vantage point of being directly addressed by him. And, by the way, even as I write this, another doctor is being crucified without an iota of unbiased, objective analysis of context, or a study of the influencing circumstances. Remembering the gentleman’s sobriquet, I would adjust to say; “crucified a second time” Dr Luncheon’s vast experience and nimble intellect produced an uncanny way of politely completing my statement or question, and providing a response while I am still working out in mind the best way to present a matter consistent with the respect which should be accorded one holding the high office of Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Presidential Secretariat (HPS) and also, Secretary of the Defence Board. Two examples come to mind: one Saturday morning while chatting, I thought that the line of conversation he initiated provided an opportunity to express my concern about the state of cooperatives in our cooperative republic. The current subject Minister was undoubtedly committed to the philosophy and movement, but I wasn’t sure the majority of Cabinet members had fully grasped the significance and potential of cooperatives along with the application of its resources as a game changer in Guyana’s multi-ethnic human development process. On the contrary, Government had just unveiled a set of policies to support the intent that the private sector should be the engine of economic growth. However, the cooperative as a transformational galvanising pillar was marking time. I was thinking about my possible contribution to a greater awareness when he leaned forward and said “you have a lot of experience in field work and administration, your skills could be wider utilised in our nation’s develop-

ment programme. Send me a one or two pager outlining your skillset, background and willingness to serve in a higher capacity than your current assignment”. As I walked out his office, I let out a conceding giggle; it hit home that the HPS had disarmed me and subtly conducted a job interview by applying a strategy of targeted, light banter with sprinklings of old fashion Guyanese vernacular that included his trademark “the banna / them bannas”.

I recall another time Dr displayed his ‘mind-reading’ gift. Around December 2014, having gotten past the topic of his official summons, he settled into initiating a free-flowing discussion about some of his administrative experiences; I felt honoured to be hearing such amazing analyses and conclusions. A voice in my head was saying “the great man is providing awesome guidance to me, a person with whom he only recently got acquainted (well maybe he had the benefit of a dossier).” As if he heard my thoughts, He switched gears and said “in life, to have someone of significance believe in you and got your back at the rightful time, is of inestimable value”. He identified Dr Cheddi Jagan and Justice Kenneth George as having being two such persons to him. The former took him under his wing and protected his phenomenal personal growth, while the latter helped fashion his commitment to higher education, decency and professionalism. That was his unique way of hinting he may have been treating me in a similar light.

The departed, as an individual, was committed to a professional public service and representative industrial relations practices therein. During our last meeting before the March 2015 election, he mentioned his disappointment at not fostering a robust Public Service Association (PSA) to look into the interests of senior public servants. The current PSA head had moved on from being a Permanent Secretary to an appointment as head of a newly established authority within the agricultural sector. I was asked to consider a key assignment to help revitalise the PSA into becoming a more vibrant and effective body after the upcoming general and regional elections

We spoke briefly twice during the 2015 – 2020 previous Administration period. He emphasized two similar points both times: one, his failing health, in particular his

eyes; and two, his deep concern that the Government was making several serious policy and administrative mistakes. They blatantly ignored the fact that they could have reached out and tapped into his two decades of senior governmental experience.

As for the two pagers; I sent to him as requested. Didn’t hear anything else though we interacted a few times after. He made no reference nor did I. Towards the end of December 2014, some eight months after I submitted, he called (he had a way of calling late night around ten pm with the words “you up?”. Because this was far apart, I would naturally respond “who is asking please” to which he hung up. This morning around six am, having grown accustomed to the drill, I was prepared. We got past the “you up” salutation, he said “About that paper, the President and I have decided you should be invited to undertake higher governmental responsibilities, your subject Minister, (a man who was making baby steps to become Head of State) has readily concurred. Let me know what you think early. I am looking forward to announce your appointment to the nation.”

Dr Roger Forbes Luncheon was a man with an exceptional mind who stealthily applied indescribable administrative power which was buttressed by a disarming wit and unpretentious humility; a Guyanese to the bone and an avowed Marxist clothed in unwavering patriotism. It’s ironical that this accomplished medical doctor, who directly contributed to the healing process of so many, fell victim to being an unrelenting workaholic that made missteps in taking better care of his health. Often at his desk from five am to having late night meetings, he used his Saturday ten am ‘meet the people’ time to ‘ground’ with persons from all walks of life while unwinding in the process; the Kitty ‘roots man’ on dashing display during the discourse.

Today, as I edge closer to my allotted three score and ten, I can undoubtedly say there is no other person with whom I have interacted so little that taught me so much. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to his family and others in mourning. May he rest in peace.

Yours faithfully,

Derrick Cummings

Horsemen fire their rifles during a performance to celebrate the annual Moussem festival in El Jadida, Morocco, August 6, 2023 (AFP photo)

Government to the rescue once again!

Dear Editor, ‘Bigger and Better’ is the name of the game for the 45-year-old Demerara Harbour Bridge’s new ‘Span Nine,’ which will accommodate the passage of larger ships. The new span will now retract from 54 metres to 70 metres. The 1.15 miles long floating bridge with 61 spans supported by 114 floating pontoons, was commissioned on 2nd July 1978 and was the longest floating bridge in the world then. Today it is ranked as number four. It is a crucial and critical link between Georgetown, Berbice, Cheddi Jagan Int. Airport, Linden, the hinterland and the West side of Demerara, networking with Essequibo and the islands. On average, some 17,000 vehicles traverse daily. Initially designed to enjoy a life span of ten years only (others claim twice the amount), it has outlived and outlasted the

useful years and continues to limp along to provide a much-needed service.

During the PPP/C party’s former governance, then Public Works Minister Benn in 2014 had submitted a proposal for a new bridge to be built. Had the PNC Government followed through with that plan when they came into office in 2015, Guyanese would have been enjoying a new bridge already. But their hindsight and selfish reasons caused Guyanese to be suffering the agony of the current dilemma! Guyanese need to be reminded of the PNC’s breaches in procurement due to “unsolicited proposals,” which delayed those plans. Auditor General Deodat Sharma had flagged many breaches of Guyana’s financial laws. Once again, it is the PPP/C Government which has to correct another PNC shortcoming! A new bridge is on its way!

During the shutdown from midnight Monday 24th July to Thursday 27th evening, a carefully well managed team under the auspices of Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, Public Works Minister Bishop Juan Edghill, Minister Deodat Indar, Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn and a group of devoted and dedicated men and women, diligently and dependably managed the supervision of a well-executed plan to complete the replacement exercise, hours ahead of the scheduled time. Perhaps, it shines as some sort of record in the annals of the history of the bridge.

All should be highly commended and accept a salute. Apart from an accident-free period, safety and security played a pivotal part in this exercise. It was heartening to see Police officers from the very high ranks them-

selves engaged in administering traffic regulations along with their support staff on both sides of the Demerara River. Inclusive also were officers from the Fire Service. All the anticipated hurdles failed to materialise as bottle necks due to the diligence and expedience of the planning committee. Commuters were relieved to experience a trouble-free three days’ shut down of the bridge.

Several instituted changes contributed to the smooth flow of traffic, avoiding any chaos and confusion or any large gathering of crowds waiting to join the water taxies. To begin, many Police officers were assigned duties to help direct traffic from the junction at Vreeden-Hoop all the way to the stelling. They ensured that all vehicles kept a constant flow so that drivers were not allowed to back up traffic. Also, there were adequate

Proud to support FDI in Guyana, including from Exxon

Dear Editor,

Please allow me to respond to two letters that appeared in the media on August 7, 2023. The piece by Mike Persaud is predictably pretentious. Mike thinks that a couple of references to Steve Coll’s 2012 book – “Private Empire” would burnish his otherwise vacuous claims about Exxon in Guyana. Much is made about what Coll had to say about Chad, namely that the country has no sovereignty. Well Mike is unaware that Exxon sold its oil interests in Chad and neighbouring Cameroon. Savannah Energy (UK) purchased Exxon’s 40% interest in the Doba oil project, as well as a 1081 km pipeline that takes the crude oil from land-locked Chad through Cameroon. After the deal was struck, Chad nationalised the oil assets, preventing Savannah Energy from proceeding with further development of Doba. Mike should know by Guyana’s experience that nationalisation is an extreme form of exercising national sovereignty. Chad now has plenty sovereignty, but they are in an economic, political, and security mess.

What Mike does not know is that since Exxon’s exit, Chad has been thrown into a worse economic situation than it had been in before. When Exxon embarked on the Doba project a little over two decades ago, Chad was expected to produce 225,000 bpd. Because of intense nationalism both from General Idriss Déby (a dictator), and so-called civil society groups, Shell and Total withdrew from Chad. In 1999 and a new structure was formed among Exxon, Chevron, and Petronas (the latter being a Malaysian

energy consortium).

President Déby (following advice like that provided by OGGN regarding Guyana) chased away Chevron and Petronas. That left Exxon alone, which in turn also decided to bolt due to OGGNtype advice exercised by General Déby. (General Idriss Déby died in 2021, and his son Mahamat, also a General, took over).

Here is what the World Bank has to say of the situation – “Oil revenues have been volatile and downward trending, declining from 16% of GDP in 2012 to 3% in 2016. At 9% of GDP in 2021, it remains low and constrains Chad’s fiscal space, leading to a decline in capital expenditure, slow economic growth, and recessions. Therefore, bold actions are needed to reverse this course and to spur economic growth” (IBRD).

The Chadian economy declined by 1.2% in 2021 but bounced back in 2022 mostly due to oil. “The high revenue from the oil sector resulted in a fiscal surplus of 4.5% of GDP in 2022, while the non-oil fiscal deficit was at 7.4% (C.N. Temgoua & A. Savadogo, 7/10/2023). But now, the oil is gone due to Exxon’s divestment, and the President Mahamat Déby’s nationalisation efforts. Would Cde Mike and Cde Girdhari, please inform the people of Chad where to find foreign investments, or otherwise offer any advice on domestic capital formation?

Cde Girdhari deposit in the press is shallow and elliptical, as is expected. He thinks that by using Cheddi Jagan’s name he will automatically have an alibi. But Jagan, who at one time was a hardline champion against international cap-

ital, himself modified his perspective when he became President in 1992. Jagan was a pragmatic socialist in his later years. This is unlike Gary Girdhari who is an unreconstructed 1970s ideologue who thinks that foreign investments are automatically instances of “imperialism.”

Gary Girdhari has made numerous personal attacks against me including in the Guyana media on August 6, 2023. I hope my response will be printed so that Mr Girdhari gets it. The man frames me as a “professed scholar…,” which implies that I misrepresent my status. Here is some data for Gary Girdhari. You can check Google Scholar where you will see I have dozens of publications in some of the top academic journals and presses in the world. Academia.edu reports that over the past twelve months alone, scholars from 91 countries, 543 cities, and 359 universities have downloaded my work 787 times. More than 1500 pages have been downloaded. Girdhari

wants to know if my “…coffers [are] overflowing.” Yes, that is his critique of my defence of FDI in Guyana. Don’t you have any shame, Sir?

Let me be direct about Exxon, Hess, CNOOC, and other companies like Omai, the latter being in the mining sector. FDI is vital to the upliftment of the standard of living in Guyana. FDI alone, however, cannot do the job. It must be accompanied by a solid understanding of the needs of our people, the opportunities and constraints in international markets, the prevailing trends in the multilateral institutions, and the general dynamics of the states’ system. I am certain that the PPP/C Administration under President Ali is leading us in the right direction. In the meantime, Mike and Gary can continue to live in a city that is among the worst polluters in all human history.

Sincerely,

Dr Randolph Persaud

officers on the wharf itself to control passengers embarking and disembarking in an orderly manner and to keep moving. There was no jumbling or fumbling with passengers! Those joining the boats to go to Georgetown were kept on the right-hand side and those arriving from Georgetown were kept separately on the left-hand side.

A similar exercise was conducted at the Georgetown end. The placement of barriers facilitated passengers staying on their exit and entrance pathways.

Passengers were gently but firmly ushered in their respective directions with the help of friendly Police officers. There were no vehicles to block or impede traffic. Vehicles along with vendors were kept at a safe distance in order to allow passengers to move along quickly and not at a snail’s pace. In particular, vendors had their stalls on one side of the street leading all the way to the eastern junction.

We have witnessed how Guyanese can cooperate to help in a challenging situation and abide with instructions when instituted by the relevant authorities. The question is, is it only in a given situation that Guyanese will behave accordingly, or is it only in the presence of the law will Guyanese abide with requests or orders?

Will Guyanese not comply by using their initiative and do what is right and avoid what is wrong? Do these sociological enquiries question the cultural behaviour of

Guyanese or their temperament or their intellect? Is it a case where a precedent was created and now it’s taken for granted that, that behaviour is the norm?

The Stabroek Market has always been a sore sight and point. It is an issue where many dodge the bullet. The hectic scene has multiplied in commotion and compounded the problems as the years go by. From a dilapidated infrastructure to a criminal environment, the ambience has developed into a health risk with garbage littering the pavements and inside the market itself, while overflowing with carefree vendors and customers unconcerned with the pride of civil and civic responsibility. This is not a name blaming game but it’s obvious that the perpetual problems grew and generated with the Mayor’s office and their lackadaisical attitude and/ or their refusal to grab the bull by its horn!

Hopefully, the current Mayor will cut the bull out and attend to and amend his predecessors’ follies by making Georgetown the garden city again from a garbage city. Also, those changes implemented around Georgetown Stelling during the shutdown period, should become permanent changes. Will the Mayor step up to the plate, or, will the PPP/C Government be the default rescuer once again?

Yours respectfully, Jai Lall

Converting customary measurements to metric measurements

By Kamau Brathwaite

In this easy science experiment for kids you will learn to make a super easy homemade hand warmer using calcium chloride and SAP crystals. This is a great activity to demonstrate an exothermic chemical reaction and the result is an awesome hand warmer that works really well and produces an impressive amount of heat.

Materials:

Small ziplock bag

About one tablespoon of SAP crystals or water beads

About one tablespoon of calcium chloride

Water Instructions:

Open the ziplock bag and put the SAP crystals inside.

Add about a quarter cup of water.

Zip the bag closed and let it sit for several minutes until the water is mostly absorbed.

Now add the calcium chloride to the bag.

Add about another quarter cup of water and zip the bag closed securely. Try not to leave a lot of extra air in the bag.

Knead the bag until the calcium chloride is dissolved.

You will feel a significant increase in temperature.

How it works:

When the solid calcium chloride dissolves in water, an exothermic chemical reaction occurs releasing heat.

Make this a science project:

What happens if you use a larger bag? What happens if you use a different amount of water? What happens if you use a different liquid? What happens if you add an entirely new ingredient like iron filings to the experiment? (sciencefun.org)

But today I recapture the islands’ bright beaches: blue mist from the ocean rolling into the fishermen’s houses. By these shores I was born: sound of the sea came in at my window, life heaved and breathed in me then with the strength of that turbulent soil. Since then I have travelled: moved far from the beaches: sojourned in stoniest cities, walking the lands of the north in sharp slanting sleet and the hail, crossed countless saltless savannas and come to this house in the forest where the shadows oppress me and the only water is rain and the tepid taste of the river. We who are born of the ocean can never seek solace in rivers: their flowing runs on like our longing, reproves us our lack of endeavour and purpose, proves that our striving will founder on that. We resent them this wisdom, this freedom: passing us toiling, waiting and watching their cunning declension down to the sea. But today I would join you, travelling river, borne down the years of your patientest flowing, past pains that would wreck us, sorrows arrest us, hatred that washes us up on the flats; and moving on through the plains that receive us, processioned in tumult, come to the sea. Bright waves splash up from the rocks to refresh us, blue sea-shells shift in their wake and there is the thatch of the fishermen’s houses, the path made of pebbles, and look!

Small urchins combing the beaches look up from their traps to salute us: they remember us just as we left them.

The fisherman, hawking the surf on this side of the reef, stands up in his boat and halloos us: a starfish lies in its pool. And gulls, white sails slanted seaward, fly into the limitless morning before us.

WORD SEARCH

Oil revenue will allow Guyana to create low carbon-based economy – Pres Ali

Guyana’s revenues from oil and gas will pave the way for accelerated modernisation and building an economy that is based on the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), according to President Dr Irfaan Ali.

The President was at the time speaking during a recent interview with CGTN. He was asked about his bilateral visit to China, where he met with Chinese President Xi Jinping. In particular, President Ali was asked about the Belt and Road Initiative.

“President Xi’s approach is to expand the Belt and Road Initiative to include all of

this in his shared governance framework. Shared responsibility framework. And that is what makes it most interesting.”

“Of course, we in Guyana would have benefitted from the infrastructure transformation. And the investment in our infrastructure. Infrastructure is key, for the expansion of sectors. The opening up of opportunities and land for housing, food production,” President Ali said.

Ali noted that the priorities for modernising Guyana include improving efficiency and transparency, the security of the country. These are

all areas in which the country as a whole would have benefitted.

According to the President, oil revenues will pave the way for Guyana to develop into a modernised state. He also lauded China, noting that they are one of the countries that have been helping Guyana in this regard… in particular with their involvement in the construction of six modern regional hospitals.

“The revenue from oil would give us an opportunity to expand our growth, to modernise at a much faster pace. What it allows us to do, very importantly, is what our ambitions were. Even long before oil and gas. And the ambition was to create an economy that is based on a low carbon development framework.”

and education. And China is already playing a key role in the healthcare sector.”

President Irfaan Ali on Monday disclosed that a name will be announced “very soon” as the replacement for former Local Government Minister Nigel Dharamlall.

The Head of State made this disclosure during the swearing-in ceremony of the new Mayors and Deputy Mayors at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.

When asked if there are considerations presently for Dharamlall to fill any roles within the Government’s machinery, Ali disclosed, “Right now, we are dealing with the appointment of the responsibility for Local Government. That has not come to Government at this time.”

It was announced on July 4, 2023, that Dharamlall had resigned, following allegations of rape that were levelled against him. Subsequently, however, the complainant declined to pursue the matter.

The victim had given a “no further action statement” to investigators in the presence of one of her parents and a representative of the Child Care and Protection Agency.

This had led to the Director of Public Prosecutions, Shalimar Ali Hack, SC, advising the Police not to proceed with the case. The DPP, in her advice, stated that the victim’s decision

to withdraw the complaint was not influenced by anyone, and that same was done in her best interest.

Based on this new development, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) had revealed that, “the Director of Public Prosecutions concluded that in the absence of the victim’s complaint, there is no legal provision for the Police to proceed with the matter.”

“The DPP also proffered her advice based on the fact that the virtual complainant’s statement was taken by a forensic interviewer in the presence of a parent, a Child Care officer, and a Police officer; and that such statement was free and voluntary,” the GPF had also related in their statement.

Dharamlall resigned as both a Minister and Member of Parliament (MP). While the Minister within his Ministry, Anand Persaud, has been carrying out his ministerial functions, Coonjah was sworn-in as his parliamentary replacement.

“So, we had the Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030. An economy and country that takes very seriously its global responsibility. Whether it’s on food security, climate change, energy security. A country that abides by the principle of service to humanity. One in which we will invest heavily in healthcare

Launched by President Ali in November 2021, the new and expanded LCDS programme seeks to create a new low-carbon economy in Guyana by establishing incentives that value the world’s ecosystem services, and promote these as an essential component of a new model of global development with sustainability at its core.

In Guyana’s case, it is about harnessing the value of the country’s ecosystem

services to build a long-term, low-carbon diversification opportunity. Importantly, the new LCDS programme intends to align its operations with global climate change goals. Guyana will act strategically and responsibly as the sector develops, supporting global energy security while diversifying and decarbonising Guyana’s domestic economy and investing in development priorities for all Guyanese, including health, education and low-carbon opportunities.

At the same time, the

Government will advocate internationally for a strong global carbon price and the removal of subsidies on fossil fuel – to incentivise the lowest carbon, most cost-effective oil and gas in the global marketplace in line with the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement under which there will be demand for decades to come. In parallel, Guyana will advance a “no flaring” policy, and mandate the use of best technology in the oil and gas sector to limit its environmental impact. The Government launched consultations on LCDS 2030, which were coordinated by a Multi-Stakeholder Steering Committee (MSSC), since 2021. These consultations were able to come up with various ways to invest revenues from forest carbon markets, outside of regular budgetary allocations.

After seven months of consultations with multiple stakeholders, the strategy was laid in the National Assembly by Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh in July 2022. It was subsequently given parliamentary approval. (G3)

President Dr Irfaan Ali

Former Local Government Minister, Nigel Dharamlall

Dharamlall’s replacement as Minister to be announced

“very soon” – Ali

Wounding convict’s appeal adjourned for court’s registry to notify appellant

Robert Rawlins, who has filed an appeal against his conviction and 12-year prison sentence for felonious wounding, has to be notified by the Court of Appeal that his matter has been listed for hearing. The case, which was originally scheduled for arguments on July 25, has been put off until October 4 to allow the court’s registry to notify the appellant, who is on bail, of the new date.

In 2016, this Kingston Squatting Area, Springlands, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) resident was found guilty of a brutal cutlass attack on his ex-reputed wife and consequently imprisoned.

During an incident that

Robert Rawlins

took place on July 3, 2014, Rawlins wounded then-45year-old Sharmila Singh with intent to maim, disable or disfigure her. He was initially indicted for attempted murder but was convicted on the lesser

count of felonious wounding.

Rawlins was convicted by a mixed 12-member jury following a trial before Justice Jo Ann Barlow at the Berbice High Court. He has since appealed that decision, arguing, among other things, that his conviction is unsafe and that the 12-year sentence imposed on him is excessive.

Singh, with whom Rawlins had shared a twoyear relationship, had testified that on July 3, 2014, she was sitting in a hammock at her former sister-in-law’s home when Rawlins came and asked her “Where yuh gon run now?”, before chopping and broadsiding her with two cutlasses.

According to her, her sister-in-law, upon seeing this, ran to the back of the house to alert the neighbours. She had said that Rawlins chopped her about her body and then left.

Singh was initially taken to the Skeldon Hospital before being transferred to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital but had to be transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

During the ordeal, Singh had testified that she was unable to scream because she was in shock.

Dr Chandrawattie Lalbachan, in testifying on behalf of the prosecution, had said that she examined the injured woman on July 23, 2014, and observed that there were 11 lacerations and hematomas about her body, inclusive of her head, back, shoulder, arm and fingers.

According to the doctor, due to the extent of the woman’s wounds, she had lost a large volume of blood. It was noted by the doctor that without prompt medical intervention, Singh might have lost her life; however, she now has a permanent disability in three fingers of her right hand.

In his defence, Rawlins, who was unrepresented by counsel, elected to give an unsworn statement in which he maintained that he did not chop his ex-partner. He had claimed that two men had attacked him and Singh and that during the altercation, she was injured. (G1)

Changes… …at “Big Hospital”

To older folks – especially those from the rural sticks –the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) is simply the “Big Hospital” to which they go or are sent when they’re REALLY sick. With the law of averages being what it is, being sent to the Big Hospital became a death sentence to the masses. That reputation was sealed during the loooong PNC dictatorship. What with rats nibbling away at the toes of newborns and (not coincidently) Hamilton Green being the Minister of Death…erm…Health, how could it be otherwise??

The GPHC became a sordid illustration of Dante’s representation of Hell – with all the tortured souls writhing in the various levels. In modern terms, “Big Hospital” was a hospice – where folks entered as a holding pen for the “the Big Sleep”. Many thought it was poetic justice when Burnham entered it for a “routine” throat operation and ended up a corpse on the table. Ever since, you’d notice that politicians are quickly medevacked to “outside” hospitals in the US, Trinidad and even Cuba!! Burnham’s fate became a cautionary take on the Big Hospital.

After the PPP’s 1992 return, the Hospital was painfully improved – and while it still had a long way to go before it could reach First-World standards, it slowly began to lose its ghoulish reputation. One of the important innovations was to make the Big Hospital into an autonomous corporation. To be run by a Board of Directors (comparatively) free from the political interference that poisons every Governmentrun institution. While it falls under the MoH, the Board has representatives of several stakeholders and the Minister is supposed to only issue “policy” directives – not get involved in operational matters.

But when the PNC returned – like Freddy Kruger –in 2015, they immediately reinstituted the Burnhamite tradition of placing political hacks in charge of “autonomous” bodies. Remember how the CEO was sacked and an ex-army buddy was appointed by the Sanctimonious Gangster?? And while he boasted that this signalled the return of “professionalization” to the Big Hospital, citizens couldn’t help noticing that rather than checking in there when he had a medical issue, he flew off to Cuba!!

Anyhow, with all the improvements that the PPP had introduced, the Big Hospital had just “growd” as haphazardly as Topsy – with no coordination between departments and wards and such like!! But the new PPP Government of Irfaan Ali immediately embarked on a massive reconstruction of hospitals all over the country – even in the hinterland – that each of them now rival the Big Hospital. So, your Eyewitness was quite chuffed that a brand new integrated GPHC gonna be constructed!!

But do we have to get those Cuban staff that understand neither English or our Creole??

…on Ganja!!

Well, your Eyewitness has been following the heated (smoky) debate as to how we should deal with our favourite herb – brought to these shores by Indian indentureds – who gave it the name “GANJA”. Now in an interesting twist, it was adopted by African Jamaicans who made it essential as a sacrament in their Rastafari Religion and spread it worldwide. Including back in a circle to the other WI territories like our mudland.

Anyhow, it appears that the powers-that-be aren’t persuaded the herb should be legalised in toto. So right now, we have folks being thrown into the clinker for half an ounce in their possession!! What to do. Well, this government has based its entire development scheme on a low carbon trajectory. So with marijuana plants of the same mass absorbing more than three times the Carbon than trees –he’s happy with its cousin Hemp getting some traction.

Our now unprofitable sugar lands can now earn carbon credits by growing hemp!!

…time on Haiti

Your Eyewitness has been pleading for the longest while that Caricom should take the lead to assist member Haiti out of its crisis. That Kenya – from across the Atlantic - is taking a lead on sending a force doesn’t reflect well on our cred.

Clifton Hicken’s tenure as Top Cop extended – Pres Ali

a letter extending the services of the Commissioner of Police to a date to be determined,” informed President Ali.

In March 2022, Hicken was appointed Top Cop – a promotion from his post as Deputy Commissioner of Police with responsibility for Operations at that time.

Joining the GPF in August 1986 as a Special Constable, he has held the ranks of Lance Corporal, Corporal, Sergeant, Inspector, Assistant Superintendent, Superintendent, Senior Superintendent and Assistant Commissioner.

egies have been identified to mitigate against crime and violence, particularly clamping down on illegal firearms and drugs in the streets of Guyana.

In July, all categories of serious crime were at negative growth for 2023 thus far; except for murder figures, which hiked by 37 per cent. Additionally, 68 firearms were seized, representing a 13.3 per cent increase in overall confiscation of such weapons.

Article 211 (1) of the Constitution mandates that “the Commissioner of

Police and every Deputy Commissioner of Police shall be appointed by the President acting after meaningful consultation with the Leader of the Opposition and the Chairperson of the Police Service Commission [PSC] after the Chairperson has consulted with the other members of the Commission”.

Meanwhile, provisions for a person to act in the office of the Police Commissioner are outlined under Article 211 (2) of the Constitution, and the provisions contained in Article

211 (1), shall apply to such an appointment as they apply to the appointment of a person to hold that office.

APNU/AFC Chief Whip Christopher Jones’s application had sought to nullify the March 30 appointment, mainly on the ground that the Head of State failed to “meaningfully consult” with the Opposition Leader as is constitutionally required.

However last August, Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George, SC, upheld President Ali’s appointment of Hicken as Police Commissioner, deeming an

APNU/AFC parliamentarian’s challenge to the appointment “vexatious and an abuse of the court process”. Justice George found that the President always had properly executed his discretion.

In the absence of an Opposition Leader and the PSC, she held that President Ali, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, acted “out of necessity” and it was reasonable for him to take action in his “own deliberate judgement” to appoint someone to act as Top Cop. (G12)

Having reached the age for retirement, the service of acting Police Commissioner, Clifton Hicken has been extended.

President Irfaan Ali on Monday told media operatives that a letter to this effect has already been issued.

The Police Commissioner qualified for requirement last month, after he turned 55 years of age.

“I have already issued

In fact, under his leadership, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has been executing his Strategic Plan 2022-2026, geared at transforming the law enforcement organisation into a contemporary one through the development of its human resources and other capabilities.

For 2023, under his leadership, the Police Force has focused heavily on operational priorities, performance, professionalism and accountability. In fact, strat-

GDF officer dies after crashing car into culvert

bearing registration number PAD 8961, parked the vehicle and went to bed.

However, at about 03:05h on Sunday morning, he was informed that his vehicle was involved in an accident along the Little Diamond Public Road.

Dead: Ishmael Cort

A30-year-old member of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) was in the wee hours of Sunday killed after he reportedly crashed his brother’s car at Little Diamond Public Road, East Bank Demerara (EBD). Dead is Ishmael Cort of North East Grove, EBD.

Investigations revealed that on Saturday evening at about 23:30h, Keyah Cort, the owner of the motor car

He immediately made checks for his vehicle and it was then he observed that it was missing. Without hesitation, he went to the scene and upon arriving there, he saw his damaged vehicle on the roadway.

At that time, he was informed that the driver, his brother, had collided with the culvert and was taken out of the vehicle in an unconscious state, and rushed to the Diamond Regional Hospital.

The driver, Ishmael Cort, was examined and treated but was subsequently transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Acting Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken

CANU intercepts $27M in cocaine at cargo company in Timehri

The Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) on Sunday, during a routine operation at a cargo company at the Cheddi Jagan International

and the Eugene F Correia International Airport.

Late last month, CANU destroyed a total of 1009 kg of local and foreign marijuana with a street value of a whopping US$2.5 million, which is equivalent to GY$500,000,000.

The destruction exercise took place at the former Ministry of Housing tarmac, Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown. The ganja was from cases that were disposed of by the Magistrates’ Courts. The quantity of narcotics burnt is just a fraction of the drugs seized for the year 2023.

Airport, Timehri, EBD, intercepted a motor car, PWW 5561, with the driver as the lone occupant.

A search was conducted on the vehicle, which led to the discovery of 23 brick-like parcels of suspected cocaine and a 9mm pistol along with a magazine containing 14 rounds of matching ammunition.

As such, Christopher Michael Douglas, 37, of Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD), and of King

Edward Street, Albouystown, Georgetown, was arrested and escorted to CANU Headquarters.

Whilst there, the narcotic tested positive for cocaine and upon weighing, it amounted to 26.016kg (almost 57.35 lbs.), with a street value of approximately GY$27 million.

CANU continues to work assiduously with other stakeholders to ensure that narcotics are not transhipped via passenger or cargo through the Cheddi Jagan International Airport

The Customs AntiNarcotics Unit, through the period January to June 2023, seized approximately 677.40 kg of narcotics, consisting of 662.40 kg of cannabis, 14.80 kg of cocaine, 10 grams of hashish, and 90 grams of ecstasy.

The Unit also made seizures of 4 firearms and a total of 1087 ammunition seizures, encompassing a diverse range of types. For the said period, the Unit handled a total of 30 cases and secured 27 convictions.

Plaisance

man shot after allegedly pulling gun on Police

A22-year-old labourer of Robert Road Plaisance, East Coast Demerara, is currently nursing a gunshot wound to his right thigh following an alleged incident with ranks from the Sparendaam Police Station on Saturday evening at Robert Road, Plaisance, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

Police reported that on the day in question, a Gazetted Officer and a party of Police ranks were in Plaisance with the aim of arresting a suspect for questioning in relation to the shooting to death of Education Adviser Olato

Sam.

However, the Police ranks were in an unmarked vehicle and were conducting surveillance in the vicinity of Robert Road, Plaisance, when they observed a man standing at the side of the road next to a fence.

The ranks exited the vehicle, and as they approached the suspect, he went through a small opening in the fence. As such, the ranks shouted for him to stop, but instead, he reached into his waist and whipped out a firearm.

A rank discharged one

round in his direction which caught his right thigh, thus causing him to fall into some bushes. At this time, a crowd had converged and started to behave in a disorderly manner.

The suspect was picked up and escorted to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was admitted under guard.

Police subsequently found a .32 pistol with its serial number filed off and two matching rounds of ammunition at the scene. Investigations are ongoing.

The firearm and ammunition found during the operation

The cocaine that was intercepted

Christopher Douglas

$70B in oil monies financing grants, employment, pension increases – VP

…debunks false notion of Guyanese not directly benefiting

In addition to the Government’s investments in infrastructure and non-oil economic sectors, $70 billion from oil revenues is being spent by the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government directly on the citizens of Guyana.

In 2022, US$600 million in oil funds was used to help fund the $553 billion budget... the first time since Guyana started producing oil that the revenue had been spent in the budget. This year, that figure will rise to US$1 billion.

According to Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo at his recent press conference, the increased spending can be traced to the Government spending directly on the people… which debunks the claim in some sections of society that Guyanese are not directly benefitting from the oil sector.

“The school kids now have $8.4 billion more in this year’s budget, that they did not have in 2020. The pensioners increased by $13,000, from $20,000 to $33,000. When you calculate it, it’s over $14 billion. Two categories getting near-

ly $23 billion,” Jagdeo said.

He also referenced employment costs, including the 14,000 part-time workers under the Government’s initiative. This particular initiative amounts to approximately $10 billion, making the increases amount to $33 billion more. This does not include the money being spent on public servants.

According to Jagdeo, if all of this is added up, it would amount to $70 billion more that the Government is spending from this year’s budget in employment, hiring part-time workers, the school children grant and old age pension.

“If you look at the growth in employment costs for the Government. In the last budget passed by APNU, it was $68.6 billion. This budget, it is $105.7 billion. So that’s a $37 billion increase in employment costs in the public service.”

“Four initiatives alone is $70 billion of the $200 billion budgeted this year from oil and gas… $70 billion goes to those categories. And people are not getting back anything in this country. That’s their argument. Leaving out the $5 billion for cost-of-liv-

ing adjustment, the foregone revenue from lowered taxes.” Government’s spending from the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) is overseen by the NRF Fund Board - which consists of five members, as well as the Public Accountability and Oversight Committee (PAOC), which is comprised of nine members, and the Investment Committee, seven members.

Since passage of the NRF Act in 2021, Government has gone on to establish

the Natural Resource Fund Board. Following parliamentary approval, the Government has made several withdrawals from the fund, amounting to tens of billions of dollars, which were transferred to the Consolidated Fund to finance national development priorities.

This year’s $781.9 billion budget was financed for the first time by both oil and climate funds. The Government meanwhile made three withdrawals from the fund last year to finance Guyana’s national development plans. These

withdrawals amounted to US$607.6 million (GY$126 billion) overall.

The funds from the NRF have their origins in the Stabroek Block – Guyana’s only block currently producing oil. The block is 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometres). Exxon, through its local affiliate Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Ltd (EEPGL), is the operator and holds 45 per cent interest in the block. Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd holds 30 per cent interest and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of

CNOOC Limited, holds the remaining 25 per cent interest.

Section 3 (1) of the NRF Act 2021, Act No 19 of 2021, which was assented to by President Dr Irfaan Ali on December 30, 2021, establishes the NRF to manage the natural resource wealth of Guyana for the present and future benefit of the people in an effective and efficient manner and in accordance with the principles of good governance, transparency, accountability, and international best practices, including the Santiago Principles. (G3)

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

TUESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Livestock farmer dies in WCB smash-up

...2 others injured in head-on crash

An East Canje, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne)

cattle farmer is now dead following a two-vehicle collision at Cotton Tree Public Road, West Coast Berbice (WCB), early on Monday morning.

Dead is 60-year-old Carlton Maltay of Victoria Street, Cumberland, East Canje.

The crash occurred at about 02:00h at Cotton Tree Public Road, West Coast Berbice, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice). At the time, Maltay was on his way home after dropping

with two occupants: his sister Auria Maltay and his nephew Jurjan McAndrew.

According to the Police, Maltay was proceeding

which was at the time being driven by a 22-year-old man from Bath Settlement, WCB.

in an unconscious state and taken to Fort Wellington Public Hospital. The two passengers were treated and transferred to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital, where the woman was admitted as a patient.

The 60-year-old man, on the other hand, was pronounced dead on arrival at Fort Wellington Public Hospital.

The driver of the other car that was involved in the accident was also treated and admitted at the Fort Wellington Public Hospital for observation, Police said. The two occupants in his vehicle were not injured.

off a brother at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

Maltay was driving a motor car bearing registration number PTT 7168,

along the Cotton Tree Public Road at a fast rate and while negotiating a turn, he allegedly lost control of the car and collided with motor car PWW 5977,

As a result of the collision, Maltay and his two passengers received injuries about their bodies. They were subsequently pulled from the wreckage

According to Attorneyat-Law Joel Edmond, the 22-year-old driver is claiming that it was Maltay who failed to negotiate the turn

and came into the path of his car, causing the collision.

Maltay’s wife, Michelle, a nurse attached to the New Amsterdam Hospital, said she spoke with her husband on the telephone at around 02:00h and he told her he was at Cotton Tree and would be home shortly.

“I see time pass so I start to wonder that he told me he was by Cotton Tree coming and he can’t reach yet. Anyhow, I go back to my bed and lay down. Then I get a call from Fort Wellington Hospital, the nurse said she was calling to tell me about the accident,” the grieving widow

revealed.

Maltay said when she arrived at Fort Wellington Hospital, some of her colleagues insisted that she make arrangements for a Police officer to visit the hospital to carry out a breathalyser test on the young driver. Reports are that the driver left the hospital and subsequently returned.

Maltay said she subsequently made contact with the traffic officer who was initially carrying out the investigations.

The 22-year-old driver is the son of a Bath Settlement goldsmith. Police are continuing their investigations. (G4)

Prison Guard killed in hit-and-run accident

Apedestrian was on Sunday evening killed in a hitand-run accident at Swan Village, Soesdyke-Linden Highway.

The dead man has been identified as 20-year-old Shamar Charles, a Prison Officer and also of Swan Village.

Police stated that they are looking for a motor car that was speeding and might have been the vehicle that is responsible for Charles’ death.

At the time, Charles reportedly ran from East to West across the road when

the car collided with him.

As a result of the collision, Charles fell onto the road surface and sustained injuries to his head and about his body.

The injured pedestrian was picked up in an unconscious state by public-spirited citizens, placed into a passing vehicle, and taken to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The motor car, after the accident, continued its journey without stopping. Investigations are continuing.

Carlton Maltay

The grieving wife: Michelle Maltay

The car that 60-year-old Carlton Maltay was driving

The car that was driven by the 22-year-old driver

Dead: Shamar Charles

$23.7M contract signed for rehabilitation of BIT training centre

The Labour Ministry on Monday signed a contract to the tune of $23.7 million for the rehabilitation of a Board of Industrial Training (BIT) learning resource centre at Unity, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara (ECD). The contract was awarded to Perba Trading and Construction, with the aim of completing the building by December 2023.

With training scheduled to commence in 2024, the building will facilitate welding programmes at the highest level and will also ensure that all skilled tradesmen are correctly re-trained and officially certified.

During the ceremony, Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton noted that it is an important initiative that will majorly help in changing the lives of people, adding that there are many skilled persons living in Guyana but the major investors coming to Guyana seek accreditation along with years of experience. In this regard, the Government is investing millions into establishing training facilities.

“In Guyana we have a lot of skilled tradesmen who will tell you how many years they have been doing this and they will tell you they are the best as they see it. But the world that upon us and that is upon Guyana, they really are not the best because my fear is a company will come to build a building in this country and the contract says you cannot bring a person on this site unless they are certified and accredited,” Minister Hamilton remarked.

“This facility will be rehabilitated to take people there, to retrain them…we are to es-

tablish a welding area there so we will attach a facility to do welding at the highest level. We have to prepare our people, both man and woman, for the world that is before them and whilst this might seem to be a simple exercise, it’s an important exercise for the development of Guyana,” Hamilton added.

Last month, in an effort to decentralise its services and ensure citizens from all across the country are afforded equal opportunities, the Ministry had signed two contracts for the construction of two new training centres in Corriverton and New Amsterdam, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) for the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) to carry out its operations.

The New Amsterdam centre will be constructed by NK Enterprise Inc to the tune of $44.8 million and the Corriverton training centre will be constructed by Perba Trading and Construction at an investment of $39.9 million.

Speaking at the signing, Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton had explained that the training facilities will be

constructed at Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (CVQ) Standards.

“We have to do this building, and even the training rooms and so, to the CVQ Standard. It’s useless we build a training facility that is just another training facility, we have to build a training facility that is at the level of the Caribbean Vocational Standard,” the Minister pointed out.

Moreover, he noted that though the centres are being constructed for use by the BIT, they will house the Ministry’s Labour offices within the region.

“The building is being built for the Board of Industrial Training. Labour will have offices there but it’s not a Labour office. It is a training building but we’ll have Labour offices to facilitate work that we do in the region,” Hamilton added.

Meanwhile, in a bid to ensure more persons benefit from training through the Board of Industrial Training, plans are afoot to refurbish several buildings across the country. These include areas like Bartica, Mahaica, Lethem, and Annai.

Health screening commences for nursery students

The Health Ministry, in partnership with the Education Ministry and Mount Sinai Health Systems, has commenced its Comprehensive Child and Youth Health Programme, which aims to screen schoolaged children.

The initiative currently targets children who are enrolled to commence Nursery Level One this year. Medical examination and screening are being conducted by healthcare workers of the Health Ministry at specific health centres in each region.

Each child will undergo a physical examination of their head, eyes, ears, face, legs and arms. Heartbeat and blood pressure reading will also be recorded. Should a child require further care and examination, a referral mechanism will be put in place by the healthcare workers administering care.

Parents can access the list of health centres and dates on the Health Ministry’s Facebook page.

Intended to improve the health of school children aged 5-17, the Health Ministry aims to screen at least 27,000 nursery-level children by the ending of the year.

A comprehensive programme rolled out at the nursery level will ensure that every child gets at least one checkup. This data will be entered into a chart and if there are any problems, it will allow the Ministry to address them at an early age to prevent any longterm health conditions.

To execute this service, the Ministry is in receipt of a quantity of testing equipment and other medical materials as part of the collaboration with Mount Sinai Health Systems and Hess Cooperation.

During a recent broadcast message, Director of Family and Primary Health Care Services, Dr Ertenisa Hamilton had called on parents to throw their support behind the Comprehensive Child and Youth Health

Programme, as she said it will ensure that the well-being of a child is met through early detection of any potential health concern.

The senior health official recognised that through this new initiative, Guyana’s children can be among the healthiest in the Region.

Hamilton voiced, “We believe that a healthy body and mind are essential for academic success. With this programme, we are taking proactive measures to promote the health and well-being of every student, enabling them to thrive both inside and outside of the classroom. To parents, I call on you to give us your support as we work towards ensuring that our children are among the healthiest in the Caribbean and Latin America.”

The sector received a whopping $84.9 billion as its budgetary allocation, which was intended to enhance and expand services to the entire population. (G12)

The contracts being signed for the rehabilitation of the BIT training centre

Water taxis destroyed by fire Banking, insurance institutions to meet with operators

President Dr Irfaan Ali met with several boat operators and owners whose vessels were destroyed in the fire on August 1 at the Vreed-en-Hoop, West Coast Demerara stelling.

After discussions, it was agreed that Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibilities for Finance, Dr Singh and representatives of the local banking and insurance sectors will meet with the boat owners and operators next week to explore options for support.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

Boat owners and operators meeting with President Dr Irfaan Ali on Monday

Flames engulfing boats docked at the Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling

30 Region 4 farmers receive $3.3M agri boost

Thirty small and medium-scale farmers from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) on Monday received inputs to boost their productions totalling some $3.3 million.

This was made possible through funding from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) under Component Two of the Agriculture Ministry’s Sustainable Agriculture Development Programme (SADP).

Under Component

Two of the SADP project, funding was allocated for the strengthening of the Ministry’s extension system. This included training of both staff and farmers and the establishment

of research and demonstration plots. To assist with the adoption of the new technology promoted by the Ministry, a grant incentive programme (non-cash) was also designed to support small and medium farmers.

Last June, during a sim-

ple handing over exercise at the Ministry’s Regent Street office, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha received the items on behalf of the Government from IDB’s Country Representative to Guyana, Solórzano Salazar.

Banking, insurance institutions...

Farmers also received some of the inputs procured under the project during that exercise.

Through the initiative, some 6000 farmers from across the coast will benefit from US$3 million worth of inputs and technical assistance as part of the Government’s efforts to boost Guyana’s agriculture sector.

While offering remarks at the exercise, Mustapha said while Caricom is looking to Guyana to play the leading role as it pertains to agriculture and food production, the Government

has been working to ensure farmers are equipped to improve and increase production.

“Countries in the Caribbean are looking to Guyana to play that leading role as it relates to agricultural development. As a Government, we have to ensure our farmers are equipped with the necessary tools and equipment so that they can produce. Our farmers are very important because they are the ones who will drive the sector. This is why we are making these contributions so that you have the necessary inputs to ramp up production. Our goal is to ensure Guyana becomes a hub for food production and a country capable of producing most if not all of the crops and commodities we import in Caricom. This is why we’ve been expending large sums of money to develop both our traditional and non-traditional sectors,” he explained.

Mustapha also said the Government is working to expand the cultivation of commodities like corn, soya, high-value crops, black-eyed peas, and spices like ginger. “We’ve also

been expending large sums of money to develop new crops. Things like corn, soya, high-value crops like broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots. We are also working to commence largescale beans production and supply the Caribbean with black-eyed peas. In Region One (Barima-Waini) we are working to ramp up production of spices like ginger and black pepper,” he added.

Both crops and livestock farmers received items which included small land tillers, breeding animals inclusive of cattle, swine, small ruminants, and Black Giant birds, improved planting materials, farrowing crates, water pumps, nipple drinks, and water systems, drip systems (both tape and hose), pasture fence materials inclusive of wire and posts, shade house materials inclusive of mesh, plastic, and building material, milking machines, threshing machines, plucking machines, plastic mulch, building materials for pen upgrades, weeding machines, incubators, mist blowers, grass chippers, and gestation crates.

Sophia man admits to robbery, jailed for 3 years

ASophia, Greater Georgetown man who admitted that he committed armed robbery, was jailed on Monday.

Separately, Minister Singh and representatives from the banking and insurance sectors will meet with the victims of the Parika market fire, which occurred in February this year, to explore options for support.

Additionally, Minister within the Public Works Ministry, Deodat Indar, and the Minister within the Local Government Ministry, Anand Persaud also accompanied President Ali to Monday’s meeting.

On August 1, a massive fire destroyed 13 passenger speed boats and damaged six others docked at the Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling,

West Coast Demerara.

According to the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), a distress call was received at about 01:49h regarding a fire raging at the Vreed-enHoop Stelling, and swift action was taken, with Water Tender #111 and a crew from La Grange Fire Station rushing to the scene. Fire Boat Protector #8 and its crew were also dispatched to combat the blaze.

Upon arrival, firefighters were confronted with the daunting sight of multiple boats engulfed in flames. The fire had rapidly spread, affecting 19 vessels moored at the stelling,

and despite valiant efforts, the relentless inferno completely consuming 13 boats and inflicting damage on six others.

Preliminary investigations conducted by the Police reportedly indicated that the fire originated from a vessel docked on the southern side of the Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling. From there the blaze rapidly spread to adjacent boats.

Authorities have taken statements from various individuals, including a watchman responsible for overseeing the vessels. Investigations are still ongoing.

Chavez Alves, a 34-yearold self-employed resident of Sophia, ECD, was arrested on August 4 by a rank from the Turkeyen Police Station.

He appeared at the Sparendaam Magistrate's Court, before Magistrate Rushell Liverpool where he admitted that he robbed Jennifer Goette. The Magistrate sentenced him to three years’ imprisonment.

In addition to Alves, Witman Pollard, a 34-yearold self-employed resident of Lot 827 Cummings Lodge, ECD, was also arrested on August 4 for

the offence of Receiving Stolen Articles, contrary to Section 237 (1) of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act Chapter 8:01.

It is alleged that he collected the stolen items from Alves after he had robbed Goette. He too ap-

peared at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court on Monday before Magistrate Liverpool, where the charge was read to him but he denied the offence. He was released on $150,000 bail. The case was adjourned to September 19.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar with some of the farmers from Region Four who benefited from the inputs

The aftermath of the fire

Jailed: Chavez Alves Witman Pollard

18 students participate in mental health video competition

campaign.

The “Let’s Talk Guyana” campaign, which was held alongside the CME lecture, is a nationwide initiative with a primary focus of combating mental health stigma and discrimination that persists in association with mental health disorders. The campaign seeks to provide vital information on various mental health issues and support mechanisms available in Guyana, encouraging individuals experiencing ill mental health to seek help and support.

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony during his address, underscored the Government’s commitment to prioritising mental health initiatives and improving access to mental health services in the country. He also addressed the country’s high suicide rates, emphasising the link between mental illness (especially depression) and suicide.

Greenwich Park fatal accident

Prosecution makes partial disclosure of statements, driver still on remand

Eighteen students across public and private learning institutions in Guyana recently participated in a mental health video competition, which was held by the Education Ministry in partnership with several other organisations.

In February, the MoE and the International Development and Relief Foundation (IDRF) with funding support from the Government of Canada under the Safeguarding the Human Dignity & Rights of Populations At Risk for Ill Mental Health (SPAR) Project signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on several targeted initiatives in support of addressing mental health treatment, awareness, and evaluations among students in Guyana.

Since the signing of the MoU, the IDRF has undertaken Mental School Audits in 15 public schools and 3 private schools in Guyana and kickstarted several awareness and advocacy initiatives including a Students’ Mental Health Video Competition.

At the award ceremony for the Students’ Mental Health Video Competition, acting Chief Schools’ Welfare Officer, Vickram Mohabir reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening the availability of Mental health programmes and support services to students across Guyana. These initiatives are aimed at driving greater support for children facing mental health challenges in Guyana. IDRF’s CEO, Mahmood Qasim, in his remarks commended the efforts of the students and charged them to continue to influence positive changes.

Eighteen students entered the competition, and the top three prizes were awarded to Ganesh Ghansham of Zeeburg Secondary, Kimberely Angela Sparman

of Christ Church Secondary and Akaida Simpson of Hope Secondary School.

Last month the Continuing Medical Education (CME) hosted a lecture focused on strategies, techniques and tools to enhance the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of persons requiring mental health support in Guyana, and the official launch of the “Let’s Talk Guyana” mental health

In addition, the Minister pointed to recent legislation supporting Government’s mental health agenda, including the new Mental Health Protection and Promotion Act and the Suicide Prevention Act, which both prioritise the rights of mental health patients, replacing outdated laws and shifting towards a more holistic care approach, rather than institutionalisation.

In preparation for the trial, the prosecution has made a partial disclosure of statements in relation to the five causing death by dangerous

Security guard remanded on murder charge

driving charges against a Stewartville, West Coast Demerara (WCD) lorry driver, Ewart Stewart.

Stewart, 38, was slapped with the charge after five persons died following a tragic accident involving the motor lorry he was driving and a Route 32 (GeorgetownParika) minibus.

When the matters were called last week at the Leonora Magistrate’s Court, the prosecution served some of the witness statements on the defence.

The case is set for another hearing on September 21.

passengers. Several other passengers were seriously injured following that horrific accident which occurred on the morning of March 6.

Those injured were: 21-year-old Shemar Alleyne of Tuschen, EBE; 46-year-old Samuel Ramda of Tuschen, EBE; 64-yearold Selmont Brisport of Tuschen, EBE; Samuel Ramdas of Ruby Backdam, EBE; and Junior Jack, 25, of Tuschen, EBE.

A22-year-old security guard has been charged with murder in the killing of Gerald Sobers, who died last week after being shot in the neck.

Osaffo Chester of Lot 60 Friendship, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was arraigned on Monday before Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Cove and John Magistrate’s Court.

He was not required to plead to the indictable and was remanded until September 26.

Chester surrendered less than 24 hours after the Police had issued a wanted bulletin for him.

Sobers, aged 25 years of

Paradise, ECD, was shot on July 2, while visiting a rela tive at Paradise.

After the shooting, Chester fled the scene; while Sobers was rushed to the hospital and doctors discovered that the bullet had struck his neck and exited through his spine, leaving him paralysed.

Despite medical efforts, Sobers passed away on July 29 while in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation. The following day, a wanted bulletin was issued for Chester, who later surrendered in the company of his lawyer.

It is believed that the in-

had a few weeks prior in which Sobers had reportedly asked to borrow an electric bike from Chester, who vehemently refused. That incident reportedly occurred outside a supermarket at Dazzell Housing Scheme, Paradise, ECD. The situation escalated quickly, and Chester allegedly threatened Sobers with his service firearm. Police were called to the scene by the supermarket owner, where Chester worked, resulting in both men being arrested and later charged.

They were awaiting their court hearing. (G1)

Those who died are: Margaret Kennedy, 72, of Tuschen, EBE; 57-yearold Olga Reddy of Parika, EBE; bus driver 50-yearold Vernon Prowell of Bent Street, Wortmanville, Georgetown; 40-year-old Elvis Charles of Ruby, EBE; and 71-year-old Stella Parhoo of Parika, EBE.

As it relates to the death by dangerous driving allegations, Stewart, who was initially charged on March 9, has not been granted bail.

In relation to the other charges for driving an uninsured vehicle and driving an uncertified vehicle, Stewart was admitted to $200,000 bail after pleaded not guilty.

Prowell was the driver of a minibus, BWW 8364, in which Kennedy, Reddy, and Charles were

Reports are that motor lorry GZZ 2285, driven by Stewart, was proceeding east along the northern side of the Greenwich Park Public Road at a fast rate of speed behind motor car PWW 836.

The lorry driver alleges that the driver of the car made a sudden stop to allow a pedestrian to cross the road, and he swerved to the right to avoid a collision with the car, but, in the process, he collided with the minibus, which was proceeding from the opposite direction.

The impact of the crash also caused a Guyana Power and Light (GPL) pole to break and fall into a house in the area. However, no one was injured in the home.

Following the accident, a party of Policemen visited the scene and carried out an investigation. A breath analysis carried out on the driver of the motor lorry showed a reading of .00%. (G1)

On remand: Ewart Stewart

Dead: Stella Parhoo

One of the students who was awarded after participating in the mental health video competition

Murder accused: Osaffo Chester

Dead: Gerald Sobers

Govt pledges continued support to Afro-Guyanese communities

…as Association of People of African Descent launched

The Government has recommitted its support for AfroGuyanese communities across the country, as part of its efforts to ensure the livelihood of all Guyanese.

This was reaffirmed by Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy on Sunday, at the launch of the Association of People of African Descent (APAD) at Parc Rayne.

He assured that the Government is a key stakeholder that any group in society can work with, as it is responsive, understanding, and committed to working in partnership to address the issues faced by the Afro-Guyanese community.

“You have a very willing partner in the Government of the People’s Progressive

Party/Civic, to work with Afro-Guyanese and to work with you in the most genuine ways, to make sure that the issues that affect Afro-Guyanese are discussed,” the Minister is quoted as saying by the Department of Public Information.

Meanwhile, Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister, Oneidge Walrond encouraged the new association to engage with the various groups they represent and let their voices be the guiding principles of their advocacy.

This approach is one that the Government has employed, in its people-centred agenda for development, the Minister explained.

“There is a reason why, as a Government, you see us all around the country,

going into communities and listening to what they say. You can’t rule and understand what the needs of the people are in an ivory tower. You have to go to the ground and speak with the people,” she stated, according to a DPI report.

She stressed the importance of the various organisations coming together to highlight their concerns, and that Government will continue to listen to and address these concerns.

“There is nothing that you will say or ask or any idea that will be shut down. As you speak on behalf of an organisation and on behalf of a people, everything that you say has merit or credit,” the Tourism Minister assured.

The Association of People of African Descent is aimed at bringing together Afro-Guyanese or -

ganisations, to empower and uplift persons of African descent, promoting unity and effecting social change.

Additionally, it aims to

create a platform for AfroGuyanese to have access to the necessary resources to achieve their goals.

APAD’s Chairman, Andrew Douglas said the

Association is committed to transparency, accountability and collaboration, dedicated to contributing to Guyana’s development through collective action.

Referral pathway training conducted as part of efforts to eradicate GBV …Hope and Justice Shelter, rehab programme to be launched soon

The Human Services and Social Security Ministry in its effort to eradicate GenderBased Violence (GBV), conducted a comprehensive referral pathway training programme, at the Palms Geriatric Institution, Georgetown, on Monday.

The one-day training session saw the participation of some 70 persons, including social workers, medical personnel, education officials, and members of the Joint Services.

According to a DPI report, during the programme, Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud said that, “for us to have the seamless response and for us to be meaningful and impact the life of any survivor, we need to act as one.”

She highlighted the substantial efforts made over the past three years to address the scourge such as streamlining access to essential support services through the introduction of the 914 toll-free hotline with over 8000 calls received to date.

To further empower individuals and further im-

prove access to resources, the Ministry launched the ‘IMatter’ App. The innovative tool provides citizens with information on the many resources available to them. It also features a panic button.

Added to this is the Spotlight Initiative launched in October 2020, which demonstrates the Government’s dedication to Guyana’s fight against gender-based violence.

The Ministry also collaborated with the Ministry of Home Affairs to train law enforcement officials to better serve victims of violence through the CopSquad2000 initiative.

Persaud announced that the target of 2000 trained officers will be attained by the end of the year.

“It is intended that these officers will be in every region, it is intended that if they are trained, they must act accordingly and we must remove the act of bias from that action. We cannot belittle people, we cannot diminish their reports,” the Minister added.

Meanwhile, the

Minister announced the launch of the Hope and Justice Shelter, a pioneering one-stop model where

survivors can access a range of services under one roof.

In addition to these ini-

tiatives, the Ministry has embarked on proactive programmes targeting prevention, with a particular fo-

cus on at-risk individuals. A programme to rehabilitate perpetrators is also slated to be launched soon.

Trump demands removal of Jamaicaborn Judge in election conspiracy trial

Former US President Donald Trump said Sunday he will petition to have a different judge oversee his historic criminal trial and for the case to be moved out of Washington.

The twice-impeached Republican, who is seeking a return to the White House in 2024, has unleashed a stream of invective against those prosecuting him or running the case in which he faces charges over attempts to overturn the 2020 election results and defraud the United States.

His latest target: US District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan, the Jamaicaborn appointee of former Democratic President Barack Obama who was randomly assigned to the case in Washington.

"There is no way I can get a fair trial with the Judge 'assigned' to the ridiculous freedom of speech/fair elections case. Everybody knows this, and so does she," Trump, using all capital letters, posted on his Truth Social platform.

"We will be immediately asking for recusal of

this judge on very powerful grounds, and likewise for venue change," out of Washington – a majority Black city that leans heavily Democratic, Trump continued.

His lawyer John Lauro, however, denied later Sunday that any final deci-

sion had been made.

Lauro confirmed that they would be seeking a change of venue, but only after "some polling" and "quantitative analysis in terms of how people are reacting to the indictment".

Chutkan, 61, is one of a dozen judges on the Washington federal district court bench. Her nomination to her post in 2014 was approved unanimously by the Senate.

She has a legal history with Trump, having ruled against him in a November 2021 case in which she notably declared that "presidents are not kings". And she has handed down lengthy sentences to Trump supporters who stormed the US Capitol on January 6 of that year.

(Excerpt from AFP)

Ministers Kwame McKoy and Oneidge Walrond at the launch of the Association of People of African Descent

Participants during the gender-based violence training on Monday (MHSSS photos)

Former US President Donald Trump argues he will not get a fair trial with Jamaica-born Judge Tanya Chutkan

Regional Amazon nations summit faces fault lines on oil, deforestation

Eight Amazon rainforest nations are expected to face divisions over proposals to block new oil drilling and end deforestation when they meet today for their first summit in 14 years.

The meeting of the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organisation (ACTO) gathers Heads of State from Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Suriname and Venezuela for two days in the northern Brazilian city of Belem.

They will aim to forge unified policies, goals and positions in international negotiations on some 130 issues ranging from financing for sustainable development to Indigenous inclusion.

But at a pre-summit meeting last month, Colombian President Gustavo Petro pushed his Brazilian counterpart Luiz InÁcio Lula da Silva to block all new oil development in the Amazon. Brazil is weighing whether to develop a potentially huge offshore oil find near the mouth of the Amazon River

"Are we going to let hydrocarbons be explored in the Amazon rainforest? To deliver them as exploration blocks? Is there wealth there or is there the death of humanity?" Petro asked in a speech alongside Lula.

Days later, Petro underscored the issue in an op-ed in the Miami Herald, writing: "As Heads of State, we must assure the end of new oil and gas exploration in the Amazon."

The debate over drilling for oil near the mouth of the Amazon has sparked fierce infighting in Lula's sevenmonth-old Government, pitting advocates for regional development against environmentalists.

Asked whether oil would factor into an accord at the summit, Brazilian diplomats told Journalists last week that a joint statement was still being negotiated and economic development more broadly was under discussion.

A Brazilian Government

Tuition fees going up for UWI students

Students attending the University of the West Indies (UWI) Cave Hill Campus will have to pay more in tuition fees from this academic year.

official, who was not authorised to speak to the media, said that Colombia was in an easy position to propose no new drilling in the Amazon, because it did not have significant oil reserves there, unlike Brazil or Peru.

For his part, Lula pushed at the pre-summit meeting in Leticia, Colombia, for all countries in the region to pledge an end to deforestation by 2030. Only Bolivia and Venezuela have not yet made such a commitment.

Bolivia could be a barrier to such a regional 2030 pact, the Brazilian government source said. Primary forest loss there rose 32 per cent last year amid fires and rapid agricultural expansion, according to Global Forest Watch.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Argentina workers ask saints, not politicians, for jobs

Argentines, who have seen jobs and wages hit by economic malaise and rampant inflation, lined up at churches on Monday to ask St Cayetano, the patron saint of bread and labour, for employment, with some critical of politicians for not doing enough to help.

The South American country, which saw unemployment tick up to 6.9 per cent in the first quarter, is set for primary elections on Sunday where the conservative Opposition is expected to outperform the

ruling Peronist coalition.

The run-up to the vote, in effect a dress rehearsal for the October General Election, has been dominated by the economy. Inflation of 116 per cent has hit savings and salaries, while dwindling hard cash reserves, a sky-high interest rate, a weak peso currency, and tight capital controls have dampened the economy and jobs.

"Walking around this neighbourhood, there are many people who have come from other parts of the coun-

try to ask for work. People are asking a saint because they can't ask the politicians," said retiree Juan Mura, 58.

"I would like the politicians to come here and see the reality of the people."

The ruling coalition candidate, Economy Minister Sergio Massa, is by no means down and out in the polls, though he lags the main Opposition bloc, split between two runners. A far-right libertarian also holds a key chunk of the likely vote. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Brazil’s Indigenous population double the size previously recorded – census

Brazil has 1.69 million

Indigenous people, almost twice as many as previously acknowledged by the state, according to numbers announced on Monday by the national statistics agency IBGE from the 2022 census.

In 2010, the IBGE had counted 896,917 indigenous people.

Government officials and experts said the 88 per cent increase was due to changes in methodology by census teams that travelled to remote villages in the Amazon rainforest to count the

Indigenous population for the first time.

Minister of Indigenous Peoples Sonia Guajajara said more Indigenous people felt comfortable identifying themselves as such.

"Before they had to hide their identity for fear of being killed," Guajajara said at a news conference.

She and Planning Minister Simone Tebet spoke at a convention centre in Belem at the mouth of the Amazon River where the region's Heads of State will meet this week to discuss trans-border cooperation to

In an email, the university recently informed students that “there has been a slight increase in tuition fees effective the 2023/24 academic year for students in non-self-financed programmes in the faculties of culture, creative and performing arts, humanities and education, science and technology, and social sciences.”

Officials say the fees have increased by US$100 per year. However, the fees for the faculties of law and medical science remain unchanged.

The University further informed students that registration fees must be paid prior to course registration

and they would not be able to complete registration for courses until Semester 1 registration fees are paid.

The Campus added: “All students, including those who are sponsored by their Governments or have scholarships, must pay the

university registration fees or the system will not permit completion of course registration adding that university registration fees cannot be included in a payment plan.

(Excerpt from Nation News)

Kidnappings of women, children surge in Haiti

Kidnappings of women and children are surging in Haiti as gang violence worsens, with the number of abductions in the first half of 2023 nearly reaching last year’s total.

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) said in a statement on Monday that close to 300 kidnappings have been reported in the Caribbean nation in the first six months of the year.

Most often, the women and children were taken by armed groups “for finan -

cial or tactical gains”, said the agency. It called for the immediate release of those kidnapped.

“Women and children are not commodities. They are not bargaining chips. And they must never be exposed to such unimaginable violence,” Garry Conille, UNICEF’s regional director for Latin America and the Caribbean, said in the statement.

“The growing trend in kidnappings and abductions is extremely worrisome, threatening both the people of Haiti and those

who have come to help.”

Gang violence has been on the rise across Haiti — particularly in the capital Port-au-Prince — after the July 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse worsened widespread political instability.

The UN said in November that armed gangs controlled large swathes of the capital, where they carried out murders, kidnappings and sexual violence in an effort to expand their influence and “terrorise” residents.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Venezuela’s Opposition-led congress to discuss extending bonds validity

March by the Venezuelan Government and State oil company PDVSA to suspend statute of limitations on the debt until 2028 or until US sanctions on the nation are lifted.

protect the Amazon and its forests.

Tebet told reporters the new population numbers will allow for improved budget funding for policies to help Indigenous communities, in education but mainly in health services and basic sanitation.

Tebet also said census teams, backed up by Police and travelling on helicopters, were able to cover villages where they had no access in the past or were too dangerous due to the presence of illegal miners and loggers.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Groups supervising Venezuela's foreign assets plan to submit this week to the nation's congress a proposal to extend the validity of billions of dollars in defaulted bonds, the head of one of the overseeing boards said on Monday.

The country's elected Opposition-led National Assembly in 2019 issued an order naming supervisory boards to look over

Venezuela's foreign assets after the US imposed sanctions intended to oust President Nicolás Maduro.

The congress is the only one recognised abroad and has received US authority to negotiate any external debt payments.

The proposal to bondholders, which would allow for payment negotiations and debt restructuring efforts, would be similar to a plan presented in

Since the Maduro Administration is not recognised by Washington, the Government's proposal has not shown much progress. An equivalent plan by the Opposition-led National Assembly also would have to be green lit by the US.

"There must be a joint declaration over the bonds' validity by Venezuela's Committee for Administration and Protection of Assets and PDVSA's ad-hoc board, which could happen this week," said Horacio Medina, who leads the PDVSA ad-hoc board.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

The state of the Piraiba river before a summit of Amazon rainforest nations, in Belem, Para state, Brazil, August 6, 2023 (Reuters/ Ueslei Marcelino)

“Extremely worrisome”:

The University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus

Around The World OIL NEWS

Ukraine arrests woman over alleged plot to kill Zelensky

Oil prices recoup some losses after earlier drop

Oil prices settled down 1% on Monday, after six straight weekly gains, as investors braced for weaker demand from China and the United States, the world's two biggest economies.

Brent crude settled 90 cents, or 1.04% lower, at US$85.34 a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate crude settled down 88 cents, or 1.06%, at US$81.94 a barrel.

Analysts noted the six straight weekly gains and pointed to the impending early September end of the US summer driving season and lower than expected demand from China.

"The China story is the headwind on this market," said John Kilduff, partner at Again Capital, pointing to a drop in tourism.

"The summer driving season is winding down in the United States," said Robert Yawger, director of energy futures for Mizuho Securities USA. "If you don't need as much gasoline, you don't need as much oil."

Polish pipeline operator PERN said it expects to resume flows today on a pipeline that transports oil to Europe, easing worries of supply constrains.

PERN had halted pumping through a section of the Druzhba pipeline after detecting a leak in central Poland on Saturday.

Saudi Arabia, the world's top oil exporter, last week extended its production cut to the end of September, and said more could follow.

In line with production cuts, Saudi Aramco on Saturday raised the official selling prices for most grades it sells to Asia for a third month in September.

Russia added to the supply tightness with an announcement it will cut oil exports by 300,000 bpd in September.

Chinese economic data this week will be in focus as the market seeks to gauge Beijing's appetite for more stimulus measures to support the world's second-largest economy. Investors will also monitor the US consumer price index reading on Thursday for clues on the Federal Reserve's monetary policy path.

On Monday, Fed Governor Michelle Bowman said additional interest rate hikes will likely be needed to lower inflation to meet the Fed's 2% target. (Reuters)

At least 16 people killed in refugee shipwrecks off North Africa

At least 16 people have died in shipwrecks off Tunisia and Western Sahara as North Africa faces a spike in Europe-bound sea crossings.

Tunisia in particular has become a major gateway for refugees, primarily from other parts of Africa, attempting perilous voyages in the hopes of a better life.

The death toll from a shipwreck on Sunday off Tunisia rose to 11 after more bodies were found.

“Seven new bodies have been recovered on Sunday evening,” said Faouzi Masmoudi, spokesman for the court in Sfax, Tunisia’s second largest city, which is near the site of the sinking that took place over the weekend in the Mediterranean Sea.

Two people have been rescued out of the 57 on board, all from sub-Saharan African countries,

Ukraine's security service says a woman has been arrested over a Russian plot to kill President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The service said she had tried to find out the itinerary ahead of his visit to flood-hit Mykolaiv in June.

Ukraine regularly accuses local residents who support Russia of passing information to help Moscow's military.

Zelensky confirmed he had been informed about the arrest saying the head of the SBU had updated him about the "fight against traitors".

Russia has not commented on the arrest.

Ukraine's security service, the SBU, said in a statement that the woman

was arrested "red-handed" when she was trying to pass intelligence to the Russians.

They alleged that ahead of the visit, she tried to gather intelligence to try to find out Zelensky's plans in the southern Mykolaiv region.

Zelensky visited Mykolaiv in June to see the damage caused by the Kakhovka dam breach and then again in July after heavy Russian shelling.

The security service said it was made aware of the plot before the visit and put in additional security measures.

It alleged Russia was planning a "massive airstrike on the Mykolaiv region" and the suspect was trying to provide them with information about the locations of electronic war-

fare systems and warehouses with ammunition which could be targeted by the Russian military.

Agents followed her after the visit to find out more about her actions and "assignments received" by the Russians, the SBU added.

The statement alleged

the suspect had driven in the area and had taken pictures and video of Ukrainian military facilities.

She is expected to face charges of unauthorised dissemination of information about the movements of weapons and troops.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Train derails and roads flood as Sweden, Norway hit by torrential rain

Heavy rainfall drenched southern Scandinavia on Monday, causing a train to derail and roads to flood in what officials in Sweden and Norway warned could become the most extreme wet weather system to hit the region in decades.

Swedish and Norwegian meteorologists issued red alerts, the most severe warning level, covering several days this week and said the hardest hit places could receive a month or more worth of normal rainfall

in 24 hours and the worst floods in 25 years in Norway, or even 50 years for Sweden.

A train carrying more than 100 passengers derailed in eastern Sweden as the rain partly washed away the railway embankment, injuring three people who were taken to hospital, Police said.

Gale force winds and thunderstorms knocked out local power lines and disrupted several Baltic and North Sea ferries as well as some air traffic, while Norway suspended certain

California: Three killed in firefighting helicopter crash

Masmoudi said, adding that authorities continued to search for the missing.

Survivors of the latest reported sinking, near Tunisia’s Kerkennah Islands in the Mediterranean, said their makeshift boat had departed over the weekend from a beach north of Sfax with 57 people on board.

The distance between Sfax and the Italian island of Lampedusa is about 130km (80 miles).

In a separate incident, authorities in Morocco on Monday said the bodies of five people, all from Senegal, were recovered and 189 people were rescued after a boat capsized off Western Sahara.

Eleven people in critical condition were transferred to a hospital in Dakhla, the disputed Western Sahara’s second largest city, a military source told Moroccan state media. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Three people have died following a helicopter crash during a firefighting mission in the US state of California.

The incident happened on Sunday evening after fire crews were called to a blaze near Cabazon, Riverside County.

The two helicopters collided, with one then landing safely and the second crashing into the ground, killing everyone on board.

An investigation has been launched into the cause of the crash by the National Transportation Safety Board.

The victims were identified as a fire captain and division chief from the state's Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire), as well as a contracted pilot. They have not been named.

David Fulcher, southern region chief for Cal Fire, described the incident as a "tragic loss".

"We have lost three great individuals. Three fathers, three husbands, three friends, three sons," he said.

"Daughters have lost their fathers, sons have lost their fathers".

Fulcher told a press conference the fire initially broke out in a building but later spread to surrounding vegetation.

The crash also caused an additional four-acre fire. All fires were eventually extinguished.

The helicopter that crashed was a Bell helicopter, which was being used for observation. The helicopter which landed safely was a Sikorsky Skycrane, which typically carries fire retardant or water. Both had been contracted to Cal Fire.

These are the first deaths of the 2023 fire season, according to Cal Fire data. (BBC News)

train services and postponed a number of outdoor football matches.

Hitting Sweden late on Sunday and reaching Norway on Monday, the low-pressure system was dubbed "Hans" by the Norwegian Meteorological Institute, which said naming the weather system makes it easier to get the public's attention.

Authorities warned those most affected to stay away from rivers and steep

slopes and only travel when strictly necessary. They said there was a high risk of widespread property damage as the downpour was set to continue in the coming days.

Neighbouring Denmark also saw heavy rainfall and issued a yellow alert, a lower-level warning, while meteorologists in Finland said the country could see severe thunderstorms later this week. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Nine killed in multiple bombings in Pakistan

Aroadside bomb has struck a vehicle carrying a local politician and his friends in southwestern Pakistan, killing him and six others. In another bombing, two people were killed in the country’s northwest.

The attack that killed seven on Monday happened in Kech, a town in Balochistan province, local Police Officer Haider Ali said.

The slain politician, Ishaq Yaqub, was from the Balochistan Awami Party and it was unclear who was behind the attack, said Ali.

For years, Balochistan has been the scene of a low-level rebellion by small separatist groups and nationalists who complain of discrimination, and demand a fairer share of their province’s resources and wealth.

The bombing in Balochistan happened hours after a suicide bomber detonated his explosives-laden vehicle prematurely in a former

stronghold of the Pakistani Taliban, killing a married couple in a nearby car.

Local official Rehmant Ullah said the bombing happened in North Waziristan, a district in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of northwest Pakistan, bordering Afghanistan.

He said a team from the bomb disposal unit was also present nearby when the blast took place, but they escaped unharmed.

It is unclear who dispatched the car bomber to the area, but suspicion is likely to fall on the outlawed Pakistani Taliban, known as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has stepped up attacks on security forces since last year.

TTP is a separate group but is a close ally of the Afghan Taliban, which seized power in neighbouring Afghanistan in August 2021 as United States and NATO troops were in the final stages of their pullout from the country after 20 years of war. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Zelensky visited a military hospital in the town of Ochakiv in Mykolaiv region of Ukraine in July27

DAILY HOROSCOPES

Practice makes perfect, and once you choose a course of action, you will find it easier to look forward instead of living in the past. Recognize your skills and add to your qualifications.

(March 21-April 19)

Overreaction or poor behavior will cost you. Use your intelligence, courage and strength of character, and you will bypass making a mistake. Control your emotions and secure your position.

(April 20-May 20)

PEANUTS

(May 21-June 20)

Execute intentions with stamina and finesse. Your actions will stand out, positioning you for bigger and better things. Believe in yourself. Personal gain and self-improvement are apparent.

Listen to your heart, not to someone trying to take advantage of you. Align yourself with those with something worthwhile to contribute. Learn from experience, and opportunity will follow.

(June 21-July 22)

CALVIN

HOBBES

(July 23-Aug. 22)

Tidy up loose ends that can set you back. Rethink your lifestyle and pay more attention to how you present yourself to others. Be a leader, and you'll discourage anyone trying to throw you off your game.

Elaborate, but do not make promises you can't deliver. A change that improves your health and emotional well-being will help you distance yourself from temptation. Lead the way.

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Someone funny, endearing and helpful will increase your awareness regarding how to make your life better. Enrich your lifestyle by saying no to whoever tries to dominate you and your choices.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

Use your intelligence to market yourself, and a positive turn of events will unfold. Interviews, updating your skills or sending out your resume will point you in a new and exciting direction.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

You can talk all you want, but you will fall by the wayside, and your skills and talents will go to waste, unless you act. Actions speak louder than words; do your part, and don't look back.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

Don't let anything expire or leave you without a safety net. Look for investment opportunities, but don't take on a financial burden. Keep life simple, healthy and affordable.

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Say no to anyone trying to waste your time or take advantage of you. Someone will use compliments to tempt you into taking on too much. Nurture your relationship and protect your heart.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Refuse to let anyone take advantage of you financially. Play to win, and use your skills in a unique manner that targets trends and puts you a step ahead of the competition.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

Dreams to turn reality as Kares T10 heads to National Stadium on August 12

From 32 teams, it is now down to four in the Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast set to conclude Saturday, August 12, at the National Stadium, Providence.

minded that admission is free.

Many players are ecstatic about the chance to play tapeball at Guyana’s premier sporting facility and under lights.

Though some teams boast several national players, some embody the grassroot culture of tapeball cricket, and the oppor-

President Dr Irfaan Ali, the tournament’s patron, and Culture, Youth and Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr supported ensuring the matches move to the National Stadium.

rewarded G$200,000, which will be donated to charity.

The action on the field has been nothing short of pulsating

The first semi-final pits the rampant Eccles All-Stars against Team Corruption from 14:00h, followed by V-Net Vipers, who ousted Village Rams, against Tarmac Titans from 16:00h.

The charity match will be at 18:00h, then the grand final from 20:00h, and fans a re-

tunity to play at the National Stadium was one they never foresaw could occur.

It is a dream that came to fruition after the rain hampered the tournament's opening day on July 30.

President Ali noted the event would bring many people together from various communities under the “One Guyana” banner.

According to the organisers, while they are confident of a thrilling end to the tournament given the quality of teams present, they are happy to announce numerous fan prizes.

Two persons will win cell phones compliments of ENet, two will win an overnight stay at Jaigobin Hotel in Essequibo, two gift vouchers from Pressy Gift Store, and K-Tronics, and lunch and dinner at Heliconia Restaurant.

Banks DIH also reaffirmed its commitment to hosting the free ‘Kidz Zone’ at the National Stadium, aback the Green Stand.

The children will enjoy free

Fans swarmed the Enmore Community Centre Ground for the Super 8 action, and another massive crowd is expected on Saturday at the National Stadium

rides in the child-friendly zone, including a bouncy castle, and free ice cream, soda, snacks, and water for the young.

Only the Green Stand will be open for usage, but the Red Stand will be open if necessary.

The Corporate Village will be hosted below the Green Stand, and will have all amenities such as food and drinks for the fans.

The inaugural champions will pocket G$1 million, while the losing finalist will collect

Shariff triumphs in Diamond Insurance Women's Chess Championship Qualifiers

mences on Thursday, August 10 at School of the Nations.

Nineteen-year-old Shariff is by far one of the most seasoned competitors in the event. She holds the title of UG Chess Queen – the top female player at the University of Guyana. She has represented Guyana at the Batumi Olympiad in 2018, the Chennai Olympiad in 2022, and many other international chess competitions.

Coming in second in the qualifying event is National Under-16 Champion Anaya Lall.

through the Sonneborn-Berger tie-break employed in GCF Swiss-system tournaments.

G$300,000.

The two losing semi-finalists will walk away with G$100,000 each. There will also be prizes for outstanding individual performances.

The Most Valuable Player of the series will get a motorbike valued over G$250,000, compliments of Assuria Insurance.

Additionally, there will be a celebrity charity match before the championship match where the winning side will be

The competition is sponsored by Kares Engineering Inc; Mohamed’s Enterprise; GT Beer; Rainforest Water; Star Party Rentals; Avinash Contracting and Scrap Metal Inc; Enet; Regal Stationery and Computer Centre; Trophy Stall; Premier Insurance; Cricket Zone USA; Beacon Café; Continental Transport; Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport; National Sports Commission; RS53 RestoBar and Lounge; Jacobs Jewelry and Pawn Shop; First Change Builders Inc; Impressions Inc; Sicko Mode; 94.1 BOOM FM; Assuria Insurance; Montra Restaurant and Lounge; Gafoors and Hard Rock Café.

Finals Schedule

Match 29 – Eccles AllStars v Team Corruption –14:00h

Match 30 – V-Net Vipers v Tarmac Titans – 16:00h

Match 31 – Charity

Match – 18:00h

Match 32 – Final –20:00h

Beckles to conduct training seminars in Guyana next week

Trinidad and Tobago three-star Referee/ Judge Assessor James Beckles will arrive on local shores on August 15 to conduct two important training seminars during the prestigious Winfield Braithwaite Caribbean Schoolboys/Juniors Championship.

been invited to partake in the respective seminars.

Sasha Shariff has emerged victorious in the Diamond Insurance Women's Chess Championship Qualifiers, finishing with 6.5 points after seven rounds of play.

She is one of 10 players who will now advance to Nationals to pursue the coveted title, National Women's Champion.

Shariff is the lone player heading into Nationals who has held the title before. She reigned as National Women's Champion from 2020 to 2022, until current champion Pooja Lam claimed the title last year. With Lam unable to defend her title this year due to commitments in her academic studies, Shariff is now the player to beat when the round-robin Women's Nationals com-

As is usually the case for Lall, she is the only deaf chess player competing. And once again, it has not swayed her on her steadfast path to victory. She finished the tournament with five points, her only loss being against Waveney Johnson.

She drew her games with Aditi Joshi and Italy Ton Chung. Lall has also graced the international stage for Guyana in the International Chess Championship for Persons with Disabilities and in the 2022 Olympiad in Chennai. She is definitely a player to watch in the Nationals, having placed fifth in last year’s Nationals.

Third place went to former Under-14 Champion, Ciel Clement, also on five points but ranking lower than Lall

Johnson was fourth with 4.5 points after losing against eventual champion Shariff, stalemating a winning endgame position against Vienna Bharosay and drawing her games with Jessica Callender and Aniyah Couchman.

Adia Alphonso and Couchman ranked fifth and sixth with 4.5 points each.

Callender, Joshi and Chelsea Harrison all finished on four points to take seventh, eighth and ninth place and will advance to Nationals.

The final qualifying spot went to Italy Ton Chung with three points.

Head of the Women in Chess Committee Marcia Lee was present to award medals to all 10 players advancing to Nationals. Since the Women in Chess Committee was established under Lee’s leadership,

the participation of women and girls in competitive events has increased significantly. More so, creating avenues for community and bonding among female chess players has added value to the local chess community by creating spaces for girls to learn from more senior players and improve their game, narrowing the gender gap in the historically male-dominated game.

This championship could not have been possible without the generous support of Diamond Fire and General Insurance. As such, the Federation extends its gratitude for acknowledging the value of this tournament and contributing to the advancement of chess for women and girls in Guyana.

Special thanks to the School of the Nations for granting the use of its facilities for both the qualifying event and the National Championship.

Beckles, who has the distinction of being the only threestar Referee/Judge Assessor within the English-speaking Caribbean, will conduct an intermediary forum to provide clarity and educate the respective participants on the recent rule changes that were implemented by the world governing body, the International Boxing Association (IBA). Beckles will also administer a beginner seminar to emerging and aspiring participants. Both forums will occur from August 16 to August 20.

Practical evaluations will occur during the morning period at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue, while the National Racquet Centre, Woolford Avenue, will serve as the setting for the theoretical assessments. Both workshops are being conducted with the sole purpose of improving the quality of local refereeing and judging.

The Joint Services in the form of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), the Guyana Police Force (GPF), and the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) have also

GBA President Steve Ninvalle said, “The two forums are of the GBA’s developmental apparatus. As an association, we inherently recognise that the advancement of referees and judges, who are pivotal members of the sport’s human capital, is synonymous with the growth and development of the discipline. This is the soft infrastructure that we have continued to enhance and evolve each year. Boxing cannot develop without the advancement of its technical and judicial officers. We are aware of such a reality which is a best practice within the international sporting fraternity, and simply not an actuality or element of boxing. This is development personified!”

“The seminars are also twopronged in their developmental scope. The decision to invite the Joint Services, who have a cultural and historical affinity and heritage within the discipline, was done with the simple premise of expanding the pool of judges and referees which will serve the long-term growth of boxing. This is a mechanism for blooding and exposing new talent who will eventually transition into the senior realms of authority within their respective judging and refereeing corp. This is certainly an investment for the future that will benefit the sport,” the GBA boss further stated.

Top 10 players advancing to the women's championship

Sasha Shariff accepts her first-place medal from Marcia Lee

India's misfiring batters in the spotlight as West Indies eye series win

West Indies, 2-0 up with three T20 Internationals remaining, have the chance to win their first series of two or more matches against India, in any format, since 2016. They also have the chance to complete back-to-back T20I series victories for the first time since 2017.

If they manage to pull it off, it will be a massive confidence boost for West Indies, who will be co-hosting a T20 World Cup less than a year from now.

Whether they can seal the series today may come down once again to how they tackle India's spinners, which they did quite well in the first two matches.

At the forefront of their success has been Nicholas Pooran, who, along with Shimron Hetmyer, has been tasked with taking on India's wrist spinners. Pooran has done the job to perfection, leading the counterattacks on both occasions. The bowlers have also been on point with their execution, mixing it up on pitches that have been two-paced.

West Indies have also come out on top in the game of nerves so far: while their bowlers closed out the series-opener on

Thursday, their batters did the same in the second game after the team had lost four wickets for three runs in the space of 13 balls. While the likes of Rovman Powell and Hetmyer have offered Pooran support with the bat, West Indies will expect more runs from their top three.

India, meanwhile, have mostly been let down by their batting. While their long tail has been an issue, their top and middle order, barring Tilak Varma, have struggled to get going on the sluggish surfaces.

In the spotlight – Hardik Pandya and Kyle Mayers India Captain Hardik Pandya has exuded cool-guy

energy despite the losses. "It is what it is," he philosophically said after their loss on Sunday. While he's found his bowling rhythm, his batting has not reached its usual level, and he's also been under scrutiny for his tactics on the field. In the first T20I, Hardik gave the last over of the powerplay to Axar Patel, despite the in-form and left-handed Pooran's presence in the middle; that over ended up costing 14 runs. In the second T20I, Hardik did not bowl out his best bowler – Yuzvendra Chahal – during a nail-biting chase when West Indies' lower order was struggling. The constant presence of left-handers at the crease also meant Axar end-

Archery Guyana’s inaugural Youth Championship deemed a success

Archery Guyana recently held its inaugural Youth Championship at the National Gymnasium which was deemed a success. The youths exceeded all expectations and won the hearts of the audience.

The ranking rounds were a resounding success with the highest score being 395 held by Saifullah Gani from ProArchers Guyana in the men’s category. The women were not far behind, Saifullah’s sister, 10-yearold Fatima Gani, also from ProArchers Guyana, held a score of 301.

who

National Sports Commission

and Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, for their usual kind support of the sport, as well as the beverage sponsor Guyana Beverages Inc for its tremendous support.

The Archery Guyana President also went on to thank the judges, Ryan McKinnon and Robert Singh, for their efficiency and professionalism throughout the competition. She also extended thanks to the Chair of the Tech Committee, Saeed Karim.

ed up playing as a pure batter in the second T20I, after being taken for 22 runs in two overs in the first game.

Kyle Mayers had a superb Indian Premier League (IPL) season, but he's not been able to replicate that form while playing for West Indies. After a middling One-Day International (ODI) series, he's made 1 and 15

Team news – Will India bring in Yashasvi Jaiswal?

The hosts are unlikely to make too many changes to their winning combination.

West Indies (probable): 1 Brandon King; 2 Kyle Mayers; 3 Johnson Charles (wicketkeeper); 4 Nicholas Pooran; 5 Shimron Hetmyer; 6 Rovman Powell (Captain); 7 Jason

year, considering they have another wicketkeeping option in Sanju Samson. If he's fit, India may also want to bring back Kuldeep Yadav –- who was out of the second T20I after being hit in the nets. Ravi Bishnoi, who replaced him, went wicketless for 31 runs.

India (probable): 1 Shubman Gill; 2 Ishan Kishan/Yashasvi Jaiswal; 3 Suryakumar Yadav; 4 Tilak Varma; 5 Hardik Pandya (Captain); 6 Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper); 7 Axar Patel; 8 Kuldeep Yadav; 9 Yuzvendra Chahal; 10 Arshdeep Singh and 11 Mukesh Kumar.

The Men in Maroon will look to seal the series today at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence

in the first two T20Is. His T20I average is currently 20.75. West Indies have continued to show faith in him despite this, and he will hope to contribute consistently in the top order, which has been one of the team's weak links in this series.

Holder; 8 Romario Shepherd; 9 Akeal Hosein; 10 Alzarri Joseph and 11 Obed McCoy.

Will India consider bringing in Yashasvi Jaiswal to lengthen their batting? They could bring him in for Ishan Kishan, who has averaged 12.12 in eight T20Is since the start of this

Pitch and conditions

The surface for the second T20I at Providence Stadium was slow, and it's likely to remain that way; expect spin and slower balls to have their say once more. The weather is expected to be cloudy with a chance of rain in the afternoon. (ESPNcricinfo)

Digicel Schools’ Football Championships… Carmel, Waramuri, St Ignatius, Waramadong make semi-final cut

Eight were reduced to four on Sunday evening when the quarter-final round of the Digicel Schools’ Football Championships was contested, with a display of skill and upsets galore in store.

win for the former, upending the 2023 Georgetown District Champions.

The match play events began in the Barebow Division with the finalists in their respective categories Men’s U-18 and Women’s U-18. In Men’s U-18, Saifullah Gani captured the gold against Daniel Elliot, of Qayyim Archery, who received silver, and Muhsin Wazidali, also of Qayyim, won bronze.

In the Women’s U-18, Fatima Gani won gold in a nail-biting one-arrow shootoff against Summayyah Karim, of Qayyim Archery,

At the presentation ceremony after the event, President of Archery Guyana, Vidushi PersaudMcKinnon thanked the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport; Subject Minister Charles Ramson Jr, the

President PersaudMcKinnon announced the results and together with the Chair of Competitions Committee, Jeewanram Persaud and Vice Chair of Competitions Committee Mr. Umasankar Madray, presented the medals. Participation medals were also presented to each and every participant.

The final results are as follows:

When the dust settled at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground, Carifesta Avenue, St Ignatius Secondary (Region Nine); Carmel Secondary (Georgetown); DC Caesar Fox (Waramadong, Region Seven) and Waramuri Primary Top (Region One) were the teams still in the hunt for this year’s coveted Digicel Championships.

This year’s tournament will see brand-new champions, with neither of the aforementioned schools lifting the trophy in the past seven editions.

The first team to secure their spot in the semi-finals were St Ignatius Secondary, after defeating Tucville Secondary 5-1.

St Ignatius’ Romel Ernest registered a treble in the 49th, 70th and 74 minutes while Morgan Taruma and Akon Albert netted one each in the 60th and 62nd.

Tucville had opened the scoring in the ninth minute by way of an Akil Barrow goal.

Next, an intensely-contested game between virtual neighbours Carmel and Dolphin Secondary resulted in a 3-1

Jequan Cole netted the first goal of the game for Dolphin in the 10th minute, however, a solid comeback from Carmel saw Ian Daniels, Marcus Layne and Amar Husbands scoring in the 22nd, 29th and 48th minutes to seal the win.

With Cole and another teammate getting their marching orders from the referee, the Georgetown champions, who were already missing their usual goalkeeper, were unable to come back from the deficit.

It was a walk in the park for DC Caesar Fox (Waramadong), who whipped Charlestown Secondary 5-0 in the following fixture. Braces off the boots of Carrington Isaacs in the 43rd and 49th minutes and Bevon Jones in the 71st and 77th, accompanied by a single strike in the 39th from Anthonio Isaacs accounted for Waramadong’s 5.

The final game of the evening was arguably the upset of the tournament, as Waramuri

Primary Top ousted Regional Champions Santa Rosa in an all-Region One clash.

Waramuri got ahead first with goals from Bruce Vincent in the 27th minute and a stunner from Zundel Adams in the 50th, which caused spectators at the venue to erupt in cheers.

Meanwhile, Santa Rosa tried to play catch-up. Captain Roy Vansluytman continued his fine display of excellent freekick execution, converting for a goal in the 60th, however, it was not quite enough as the 2-1 game went in Waramuri’s favour. The semi-finals will be staged on Wednesday, August 9 at the same venue. There, St Ignatius Secondary will take on Waramuri Primary Top, while Carmel Secondary and DC Caesar Fox (Waramadong) Secondary face off in the other semi-final game. The Digicel Schools’ Championships final is set for Sunday, August 13.

Ishan Kishan and Ravi Bishnoi might be under pressure to keep their places in India's XI

won silver and Stephanie McTurk of Nations Archery Club copped the bronze medal.

A look at the action in Archery Guyana’s inaugural Youth Championship

Several of the successful youth archers alongside Archery Guyana officials Scene from the Digicel Quarterfinals on Sunday evening (Jemima Holmes Photo)

Fans rush box office for CPL final, playoff tickets

The Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) box office was a hive of activity on Monday morning as scores of Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) fans lined up outside the build-

Sunday, September 24, tickets are going for $7500 for the Green Stand, $7000 for the Red Stand, $5500 for the Orange Stand and $3500 for the Grass mound.

However, according to box office operators, tickets for the Red and Green Stands were sold out, as tickets were available online weeks prior to Monday morning’s availability at the box office.

Amazon Warriors would be in the finals and I’m excited to see them there.”

“Of course, this is our year,” an equally-excited Carr added.

The RBL CPL is set to bowl

chise, the Guyana Amazon Warriors will begin their CPL 2023 campaign next Saturday, August 19 against home team the St Lucia Kings at the Daren Sammy Cricket

ing at 233-234 Camp Street, Georgetown, eagerly antici-

pating the start of ticket sales for this year’s CPL Playoffs and Finals, to be held at the

Guyana National Stadium, Providence, next month.

As is customary, a ticket limit was instituted with individuals being able to purchase a maximum of 4 tickets for the final and 10 tickets for each of the three playoff (Eliminator 1, Qualifier 1, Qualifier 2) games.

Ticket prices for the playoffs on Tuesday, September 19; Wednesday, September 20 and Friday, September 22 are set at $7000 for the Green Stand, $6000 for the Red Stand, $4500 for the Orange Stand and $3000 for the Grass Mound.

For the grand finale on

Nonetheless, several fans were quite excited to get their hands on tickets, the first being a duo that travelled all the way from Parika, East Bank Essequibo (EBE) on Sunday night.

The pair of Simone Browne and Tandy Carr revealed that they arrived at the box office since 21:00h on Sunday and as such, copped the coveted first place in line.

“It was a very rough night. Right now, I’m tired, I’m sleepy, I’m hungry and everything in one, because I was here since last night,” Browne told <<<Guyana Times Sport>>>.

Browne went on to state confidently, “I did that sacrifice because I know Guyana

off next Wednesday, August 16 in St Lucia, before moving around the Caribbean to St Kitts and Nevis, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago and finally, Guyana. Local fran-

Stadium. The Warriors will play their first home game of the season on Wednesday, September 13, against the Jamaica Tallawahs. (Jemima Holmes)

Record 77 horses on board for Sunday’s Guyana Cup

Over $30 million in cash and prizes will be up for grabs this Sunday, August 13, when the 15th edition of the renowned Guyana Cup horse race meet races off at the Rising Sun Turf Club, West Coast Berbice.

In what is expected to be a day filled with the best of Guyana’s race horses on display, this year’s event will be a 10-race card, featuring horses from Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, the United States of America and for the first time, Brazil.

A record 77 horses will gallop around the track throughout the day at Rising Sun Village, Berbice – the most in the event’s recent history.

During the auspicious post drawing on Sunday at Palm Court, Main Street, Georgetown, Horse Owners’ Association’s Dennis Deeroop spoke of the growth of the Guyana Cup brand.

“The Guyana Cup is the biggest horse race event in Guyana. By now, the Guyana Cup race has become a household name, not only in Guyana, but around the racing circle. A lot of Guyanese, you know, following overseas what’s happening in Guyana,” Deeroop stated.

Meanwhile, Banks DIH returns for another year as the event’s title sponsor and more importantly, sponsoring the coveted ‘Guyana Cup’ race.

so, we’re excited to be part of this event,” Banks DIH’s Sonya Forrester shared with those gathered on Sunday.

Forrester went on to state,

Con Amor of Slingerz Racing Stables in Stall 2, Glories Business of Big G Racing Stable in Stall 3, Converter of Slingerz Racing Stable in Stall 4, Early Bird of Jumbo Jet Racing Stables in Stall 5, Nice Company of Mahaicony Racing Stable in Stall 6 and Simply Royal Racing Stable’s Creemore in Stall 7. That race will have a purse of US$13,454 or G$2,906, 250.

The Associated Construction Derby Stakes boasts a purse of US$26, 909 or G$5, 812, 500 and will see seven horses in competition.

“We know that based on what we’ve heard and what we’ve seen so far, it’s going to be an exceptional display of skills’ talent and entertainment. For Banks DIH Limited, as one of the largest manufacturing companies, we really are committed to forging partnerships and ensuring that we offer quality products wherever we go and for the people of Guyana. And

“Banks DIH has a strong emphasis on events such as these and we continue to support them, because they make a positive impact on the community.”

For the feature races on Sunday, the Junior Sammy Sprint Classic will be run over 5.5 furlongs (1100 metres) and see U Can’t Handle This of the Ryan Pereira stable being drawn in Stall 1, Hecho

Stuart Gonsalves’s Haley will race out of Stall 1, Jagdeo Racing Stables’ Renaissance Man and Red Ruby will race out of Stalls 2 and 3 respectively, Colwin Adams’ El Dorado Queen will race out of Stall 4, Bronson Cheefoon’s Rachel out of Stall 5, J Narace and Jumbo Jet Racing Stables’ Firecracker will operate out of Stall 6, while Jumbo Jet Racing Stables’ Scandal bolts out of Stall 7.

The most anticipated event on the card will be the Banks Beer Guyana Cup, with a purse of G$9,687,500 or US$44,850. The first stall will be occupied by Slingerz Racing Stables’ El Tarzan, while Jessica’s Pride of

Night Eyes Racing Stable gallops from Stall 2. Defending champion and the horse to beat, Alado of Master Z Racing Stable will race out of Stall 3, and Our Stuie of Jagdeo Racing Stable out of Stall 4. Stall 5 will house Queen Domina of Slingerz Racing Stables; Stall 6, Wild Texas Tom of Jagdeo Racing Stable; Stall 7, John Bull of Slingerz Racing Stables and Stall 8 Easy Time of Master Z Racing Stable. Deleep Esreepersaud’s Bossalina will race out of Stall 9 while Master Z Racing Stable’s Everesting operates out of Stall 10. The

Banks Beer Guyana Cup will run for eight furlongs (1600m). The race is scheduled to run off at 17:30h.

Races aside, the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee has indicated contingency plans are in place for the large crowd that is expected to flood the venue. One of those plans include a four-lane entrance to the venue and parking capacity for 2000 vehicles. The Guyana Cup will be followed by a super concert featuring Dancehall superstars Masika and Teejay out of Jamaica. (Jemima Holmes)

Organisers including Nasrudeen Mohamed, Irshaad Mohamed and Glen Mohamed flank Bank DIH’s Sonya Forrester and the sparkling Banks Beer Guyana Cup trophy

Horse owners in the Guyana Cup race surround the Banks Beer Guyana Cup trophy for which their steeds will be competing

A look at the crowd gathered outside the box office prior to its opening on Monday morning (Jemima Holmes photo)

GAW fans proudly display their RBL CPL final and playoff tickets (Jemima Holmes photo)