Guyana Times - Tuesday, February 21, 2023

Oil & gas sector accounts for US$700M spent annually in Guyana

The oil and gas sector, which continues to grow amid Guyana’s reputation as the fastest growing economy, is responsible for approximately US$700 million in revenue that is retained and spent within Guyana, helping to fuel economic growth.

According to the 2023 Guyana Energy Brief, which was released by the Natural Resources Ministry, the Local Content Act of 2021 was able to secure benefits

for Guyana and in the process, put revenue from the oil and gas sector directly into the hands of locals.

“The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government is resolute in ensuring that Guyanese benefit directly from the blossoming petroleum sector. It is in keeping with this fidelity that the Government implemented the Local Content Act a year ago, which prioritises Guyanese nationals and companies for

the supply of goods, services and capacity development.”

“Through these local content measures, Guyana retains an estimated US$700 million annually in revenue spent in-country. As the petroleum sector balloons, so will the local content revenue,” the Ministry said in the energy brief.

It was pointed out by the energy brief that the billions of dollars in investments and expansions in Guyana’s oil and gas industry have

boosted growth in the nonoil industry, including in agriculture, construction and manufacturing sectors.

“Across every sector, whether it be hospitality, construction, medical services, machinery, catering, agriculture or mining, a significant widening of growth levels has manifested. This has translated into more opportunities for training, employment, economic diversification and overall social change,” the brief added.

As the world’s fastest-growing super basin in recent years, Guyana is estimated to have potential resources in excess of 25 billion barrels offshore. In the oil-rich Stabroek Block alone, which is operated by ExxonMobil and its co-venturers, there are nearly 11 billion barrels of oil equivalent.

Discoveries

To date, there have been some 35 discoveries in the Stabroek Block, where production activities have been ongoing since 2015, and a total of 40 oil finds for all blocks being explored offshore Guyana.

Exxon, through its local subsidiary Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), is the operator of the Stabroek Block 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.

Currently, Liza phase 1 and phase 2 developments in the Stabroek Block are

operating at a combined gross production capacity of more than 360,000 barrels of oil per day (bpd) using the Liza Destiny and Liza Unity floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessels, respectively.

The third development in the Stabroek Block – Payara – is on track to come online by the end of 2023 with a gross production capacity of approximately 220,000 bpd. While this may be the gross production capacity, it is expected that the startup will see a much smaller number of oil barrels being produced. For instance, when Liza phase two started in 2022, it was producing significantly less than its current production.

Meanwhile Yellowtail – the fourth development – is slated for 2025 with a production capacity of some 250,000 bpd. Both these development projects have been approved by the Guyana Government.

Uaru is the fifth development and is expected to come online at the end of 2026 with a gross production capacity of approximately 250,000 bpd with first oil anticipated at the end of 2026. The development plan for Uaru was submitted for Government approval in November 2022 and final approval is expected by the end of the first quarter of this year.

ExxonMobil has said it anticipates at least six projects offshore Guyana will be online by 2027. They are meanwhile seeking project approval for their sixth oil development in Guyana’s waters, approaching the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for environmental authorisation for its Whiptail Project. (G3)

The recently-released Guyana Energy Brief 2023

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Tuesday, Feb 21 – 04:15h to 05:45h and Wednesday, Feb 22 – 04:15h – 05:45h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Tuesday, Feb 21 – 05:05h –06:35h and Wednesday, Feb 22 – 05:40h – 07:10h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

There will be thundery showers and light rain showers during the day. Expect partly cloudy skies at night. Temperatures should range between 21 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

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

High Tide: 17:44h reaching a maximum height of 2.87 metres.

Low Tide: 11:17 and 23:40h reaching minimum heights of 0.41 metre and 0.37 metre.

GYSBI's 700-plus workforce

95% Guyanese …company reports 1000 days of no lost time injuries

Since the company started servicing oil major ExxonMobil and its operations offshore, the Guyana Shore Base Incorporated (GYSBI) has recorded 1000 days of no Lost Time Injuries (LTI) despite having a workforce of over 700, most of whom are Guyanese.

LTI refers to an injury sustained on the job by an employee, which results in the loss of productive work time. Lost time injuries encompass both temporary injuries that keep the employee away from work for a day as well as permanent disabilities and conditions that prevent the employee from ever returning to the job or performing their regular work tasks.

GYSBI revealed on Monday that they have recorded a milestone of zero Lost Time Injuries for the past 1000 days. According to GYSBI Deputy General Manager Rabin Chandarpal, this achievement is not by chance, but rather shows the commitment by the management and staff of the company to protect its staff.

LOTTERY NUMBERS

“This is a remarkable achievement in any industry, anywhere in the world. Safety doesn’t happen by chance but through focus and an all-round commitment from our team and our clients. Our operations are a testament to investment in infrastructure, bestin-class fleet of equipment, and the necessary maintenance and expertise and management systems needed to upkeep them.”

“Our in-house and third-party training and certification programmes also allow us to harness the greatest of our resources, the staff of GYSBI. Every one of our staff comes to GYSBI under the umbrella of unwavering safety,” Chandarpal said.

Meanwhile, GYSBI’s Quality, Health, Safety, Security, and Environment (QHSSE) Manager, Andy Dowson, said that the oil and gas sector, with its high-paced environment requires strict adherence to safety practices.

He also noted that when all elements are considered – including having a workforce of more than 700 workers, most of whom are Guyanese and new to the oil and gas sector, a 155-acre facility, and working thousands of hours – successfully managing all these components while avoiding LTI is a remarkable achievement.

“This incredible milestone could not have been achieved without the exceptional teamwork and attention to detail by our

dedicated and committed staff. What really matters for us at the end of the day is that everybody goes home safe. We do not compromise on safety.”

“As a world-class shore base and logistics provider, safety governs every aspect of how we do business. I am very proud of our impressive achievement and extend my congratulations to our team,” Dowson said.

GYSBI is the largest shore base throughout the country, employing 705 persons; 95 per cent of whom are local Guyanese. Back in 2022, GYSBI recorded two first places and one second

place at the Government of Guyana/Ministry of Labour 2022 Occupational Health and Safety Awards.

The company started with eight acres of yard, two berths, and one warehouse. The expansion has led to a current operation of 155 acres and eight warehouses and four berths. The shore base operations service six rigs and two FPSOs, and can now handle as many as eight vessels within a 24-hour period.

Only recently, the company commissioned its US$25 million Heavy Lift Berths with President Dr Irfaan Ali in attendance to do the hon-

ours. These berths present a combined frontage of 1400 linear feet of waterfront development.

The two new berths sit on the fully reclaimed area that was once part of a dry-docking facility. Over 20 companies and 200 employees were involved in the entire process since it was a new design for the country.

Despite its commencement in November 2019, there was a setback when a contracted employee lost his life, activating a revamp of safety practices. Weather, equipment challenges, and manpower constraints also proved challenging. (G3)

An overhead glimpse of GYSBI’s operations

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Road carnage

AWest Ruimveldt, Georgetown man is the latest death in a series of road accidents as the carnage continues on our roadways. Like many other accidents that have occurred over the past two months, he was speeding, lost control, crashed and, unfortunately, died. The high number of road deaths are in addition to the numerous injuries as a result of accidents along with the pain and suffering left behind. 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. The reality is, people, including those who survived an accident, suffer in unimaginable ways.

We are very much concerned about the number of persons losing their lives on our roadways. Too many families have been broken as a result of losing a loved one due to road accidents, most of which could have been avoided.

The Government has enacted the relevant legislation in relation to driving under the influence, loud music in vehicles, overloading, speeding, etc, but if the laws are not adequately enforced, they become useless. Given what has taken place over the past few weeks, one could not be faulted for concluding that the results of the accidents may not have inspired more responsible behaviour.

We are indeed convinced that the efforts being made by law enforcement and other authorities to reduce the alarming rate of road accidents are not being taken seriously by road users and thus not achieving the desired results.

The reasons for the high rates of road accidents are well known, and there is no need to rehash them here except to say that there are various factors which impact on road safety.

It was hoped that with the passage of the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill 2022, which has toughened existing laws to prevent drunk driving and the carnage on the road, there would have been a major impact on our roadways and the mindset of our drivers.

On a daily basis, many drivers use the roadways in a very reckless manner thereby endangering occupants and other road users; and not the least of all, themselves. It becomes painful even to see how they manoeuvre, seemingly, without an iota of care for others.

It would be interesting to find out how many of the drivers/conductors who are stopped for breaking a traffic law/s are actually charged and brought before the courts.

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.

We had also made the point before that Guyanese need to move away from the culture of disregard and irresponsibility in relation to using the roadways. The Education Ministry and other relevant stakeholders should examine the possibility of strengthening the schools’ curriculum with the aim of increasing knowledge, skills, and understanding among children and young people about the responsible use of our roadways. Similar efforts should also be made targeting the adult population, as they too are sometimes found to be irresponsible when using our roadways.

For a small country such as ours, we cannot afford to continue along this path. The number of deaths and disabilities as a result of road accidents is indeed very worrying, and something must be done urgently to bring a halt to the level of irresponsibility and recklessness on our roadways.

Some weeks ago, the Guyana National Road Safety Council (GNRSC) said that it continues to promote road safety and encourage responsible driving while adding that it will be collaborating with the Guyana Police Force to reduce traffic accidents and fatalities by 50 per cent this year. We look forward to them achieving this figure.

Calling attention to National Labour Policy in Guyana

Dear Editor,

The system of industrial relations in Guyana is informed, influenced and functions within the norms of national legislation, international labour standards, and regional labour policy of Caricom. The national Constitution of Guyana, the labour laws, and international labour conventions of the ILO, ratified by Guyana as treaty and international law, provide the legal basis, foundation, and framework for the conduct of labour relations by the Government, its agencies, and the social partners represented by trade unions and employers and their organisations. Together, these instruments constitute the Labour code of Guyana as follows:

(1) The Constitution –Chapter 1:01 of the Labour Laws of Guyana

The general principles of Part 1, Chapter two of the Constitution:

* entitle trade unions to participate in the management and decision-making processes of the State, and particularly in the national, economic, social and cultural sectors of national life;

* recognise the labour of the people as the source of social wealth;

* guarantee the right to work, including by socialist labour laws, and by sustained efforts of trade unions with others to develop the economy;

* acknowledge the rights of every citizen to rest, recreation, and leisure;

* provide right to equality of opportunity and treatment in all aspects of employment, education, social and political life; and

* impose a duty on the

State to protect the just rights and interests of citizens (workers) resident abroad.

The foregoing principles are only enforceable in the courts upon the enactment of appropriate legislation.

Part 1, Chapter III of the Constitution on Fundamental Rights: Fundamental Rights and Freedoms of the individual entitle every citizen basic rights without distinction and discrimination including the right, regardless of his/her race, origin, political opinions, colour, creed or sex subject to the rights and freedoms of others and the public interest to freedom of conscience, of expression, assembly, and association. (Articles 40, 145, 146, 147)

Part 2, Title 1 of the Constitution provides specific rules for the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms of the individuals including:

* from slavery and forced labour: “no person shall be held in slavery or servitude. No person shall be required to perform forced labour.” (Article 140)

* the protection of freedom of assembly and association - the right of all citizens and residents to assemble and associate freely or to form or belong to trade unions or associations of their own choosing to protect their interests. (Article 147)

(2) Essential Labour Laws are:

a) The Trade Unions Act, Chapter 98:03 (No 17 of 1921), provides for registration and regulation of trade unions, their rights, protection, obligations, the registration of rules, chang-

es in rules, amalgamation, the rendering of financial accountability, audit of accounts, and the report of the Registrar to the National Assembly.

b) The Essential Services Act, Chapter 54:01 (No 44 of 1956). This Act provides for the establishment of an Arbitration Tribunal to determine trade disputes in public utility undertakings and the listed essential services. The Act also prohibits strikes and lockouts, and provides for a trade dispute procedure, and for the establishment and functioning of the arbitration tribunal.

c) Labour Act, Chapter 98:01: (No 2 of 1942), provides for the establishment of the Ministry of Labour, for the regulation of the relationship between employers and employees, appointment of the Chief Labour Officer and staff, the statutory responsibility of the Chief Labour Officer and the Permanent Secretary. The Act also provides for the conciliation in industrial disputes, defines the powers of the Minister to intervene in trade disputes, and to establish advisory committees, procedures for the regulation of wages and hours of work, rights and obligations of employees, and the status and enforceability of collective agreements.

* d) Trade Union Recognition Act Chapter 98:07 (No 33 of 1997), provides for procedures for determining appropriate bargaining units and for certifying trade unions as recognised majority unions for collective bargaining purposes by a seven-member trade union recognition and

certification board, a corporate body. The Act also defines the composition of the board, their appointment by the Minister, the secretariat of the board, the duties of the board, procedures for hearing, and determining compulsory recognition, and the duty to treat and bargain in good faith by employers and trade unions.

e) Termination of Employment and Severance Pay Act, Chapter 99:08 (No 19 of 1997), provides for the conditions governing termination of employment, and the grant of redundancy or severance payment to employees for reasons connected with redundancy. The Act defines unfair dismissals and the process of termination, including termination on the grounds of redundancy, and the formula for severance allowance.

f) Prevention of Discrimination Act, Chapter 99:09 (No 26 of 1997), provides for the elimination of discrimination in employment, training, recruitment, and membership of professional bodies. The Act also provides for the promotion of equal remuneration for work of equal value. It further prohibits discrimination, defines unlawful discrimination, and protects against discrimination in employment, and protection against discrimination in other areas.

g) Occupational Safety and Health Act, Chapter 99:10 (No 32 of 1977). provides for the registration and regulation of industrial establishments, and for occupational safety and health of persons at work.

President Dr Irfaan Ali on Monday morning welcomed students and teachers from the Sisters Nursery School, East Bank of Berbice during a visit, to State House. During the visit the children performed several local songs, including a rendition of a calypso they composed (Office of the President photo)

Dear Editor,

At the conclusion of Guyana’s National Budget 2023 presentation, a major debate over the pros and cons of the fiscal budget. Rightness argues that we need a budget in the name of future generations.

Now is the time to launch major medium- and long-term public investments to drive job creation and create new investment opportunities for industrial sectors that remain crucial for Guyana’s development. We must address building new urban and in-

ter-region transportation systems; invest in energy conservation; dramatically expand low carbon-based energy sources; expand basic public services such as childcare and elderly care; and invest much more in public education at all levels as in workers’ skills.

We know that all of these investments, especially those in public services and energy efficiency are labour intensive and create many more jobs than increased consumer spending, and simultaneously promote our environ-

Calling attention to...

The Act also provides for the establishment and functions of national advisory council, and Authority on Occupational Safety and Health (OSH), defines the power and authority of an inspector of labour, medical inspector, OSH commissioner and their appointments.

The Act further provides for the participation of non-governmental agencies through safety and health representatives and joint workplace and health committees with defined functions and powers. The duties of the employer, supervisors, workers, occupiers, owners, and directors are clearly set out in the Act.

In relation to hazardous chemicals, physical and biological agents, the Act requires their identification and hazardous nature with appropriate inventories, and regulates their use, storage, instruction, and training. Notification

FROM PAGE 4

of accidents and occupational diseases, inquest in case of death by accident or occupational disease are further requirements of this Act.

h) National Insurance and Social Security, Chapter 36:01 Act No 15 of 1969

This Act provides for a system of national insurance and social security for old age, invalidity, survivors, sickness, maternity, and funeral benefits for all employees bases on contributions of the employees and the employers.

The Act also complements compensation under the Workmen’s Compensation law for injury or accidental death arising out of, or in the course of employment or disease due to the nature of employment. The Act further establishes a National Insurance Fund.

Sincerely,

Samuel J Goolsarran

mental, community development, and social justice goals.

What we need is a period of public investment-led growth to drive the whole economy. Public infrastructure and public services are key drivers of private sector productivity, public sector investment by private sector suppliers.

This relatively modest growth strategy might seem first-best to establishing Guyana’s best modern industrial economy. Given the emerging constraints on global demand,

however, it is more likely to succeed in laying the basis for sustained growth than a classical export-oriented industrial strategy. Moreover, it would do more to generate opportunities for the majority of Guyanese people in the short to medium term, helping to overcome the employment backlogs.

Together, as we all work to create a culture where others can compose lives of meaning and service, let’s continue to learn from one another. To begin or continue our journey to

be a transformational leader as President Irfaan Ali is changing a person’s life. I agree. This particular President, however, also looks beyond the typical growth metrics of Guyana’s economy and into its heart and soul.

When I say that God owns it all, this is what I mean. I believe that God is the Creator of the universe and owns it all because he created it all. That doesn’t mean we just sit back and let things fall apart. No, he wants us to steward his kingdom.

It can and should be a place devoted to a purpose, a place where we engage in meaningful work with people we care about and for a cause we believe in. Finally, there’s morality. Morality covers a lot of ground, I know. Morality, for me, means understanding the difference between right and wrong. It’s staying away from the edge so I won’t fall into the trap. It’s doing the right thing no matter the cost.

Yours faithfully, Sherwood Clarke

A new economic model for Guyana’s economy Carter helped to restore democracy in Guyana

Dear Editor,

It is sad to learn about the final moments of former President Jimmy Carter. He had a most enduring legacy post-presidency promoting democracy worldwide. Guyana is a beneficiary of that legacy in the restoration of democracy in our homeland.

Carter was a very courageous, polite politician. He spoke his mind and did what was right, not what was convenient. His decision making was very profound.

In his final moments, he also made another courageous decision -- discontinue medical treatment and live out his last few hours at home with his family and close friends. His grandson, Jason, thanked the public for their words of support as the

family prepared for the inevitable.

Guyanese will forever be grateful for Carter's role in the restoration of democratic rule in Guyana in 1992. The Mustique Agreement (1986) between Hoyte and Caricom leaders which summit was facilitated by Trinidad Maha Sabha Secretary General Satnarine Maharaj and the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1990 helped to bring about and end to communist rule in Guyana and the eventual return of democracy. Carter was able to convince Hoyte to introduce political reforms as well as permit the country's first free and fair elections in October 1992. And when the PNC lost, he convinced Hoyte to accept the results and step down. Carter was also influential in Guyana's devel-

opment strategy post-1992. Hoyte is commended for respecting and yielding to democratic values unlike most of his colleagues who advised him otherwise, namely to reject the outcome of the 1992 electoral defeat.

Carter also had some influence in the country's local politics and national development. Conversations with Guyanese politicians during the 1990s suggest that Carter was quite impressed with Jagdeo's stint as Junior Finance Minister and Finance Minister and lauded his performance. Jagdeo shone when he was Finance Minister - brought down the debt and the economy grew.

Carter contributed immensely to restoration of democracy when the globe had given up hope that Guyana

would ever become a democratic nation. Democracy has been thriving since Carter's intervention in 1992. He returned in 2015 as an observer that led to a change in administration. And his grandson led a team of observers in 2020 that led to another political change in administration. Thank you, President Jimmy Carter. The Guyanese nation owes you a debt of gratitude and can never forget you.

Guyana Government should make an announcement expressing solidarity and support to the Carter Center and Carter family, commiserating with them during the final moments of the President's life.

Yours sincerely,

Vishnu Bisram

NGSA Math Questions

9 men released on $2.7M bail on terrorism charges

Nine men were arraigned before Magistrate Alisha George at the Sparendaam Magistrates’ Courts on Monday to answer terrorism-related charges.

Those charged are: Phillip Burk, Mark Hercules, Dave Berkshire, Terrence Adolphus Nedd,

28.

Last week Wednesday, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) issued wanted bulletins for 12 men who, several months ago, had allegedly attacked several vendors at the Mon Repos Market, ECD, while reportedly ‘protesting’ the Police shooting death of Quindon Bacchus, a

of Nabaclis, ECD; “Burke” of Nabaclis, ECD; “Layne” of Nabaclis, ECD; “Kaldin” of Enmore North, ECD, and “Peters” of Haslington North & of Victoria, ECD.

In the following days, several of them turned themselves over to the Police in the company of lawyers. Three of the suspects are

ous” and is adamant that “they have absolutely nothing to fear”.

Terror and mayhem

In a report, the Police Force said the men committed acts of terrorism that occurred on June 28, 2022. The Police Force has explained that terror and mayhem were unleashed on persons on the ECD when several vehicles were burnt and a number of stalls were ransacked and looted at the Mon Repos Market.

“Roads were blocked by burning debris, and scores of persons were beaten and robbed during the acts of terror committed by ‘protestors’,” the Police Force has said.

On June 28, 2022, what was supposed to be a call for justice for the killing of Bacchus of Golden Grove, ECD, escalated into terror along the ECD corridor after several vendors at the Mon Repos Market were robbed

Antony English, Keon Glasgow, Jullian Peters, Tony MacKinnon, and Carlos Kingston.

Particulars of the charges alleged that on June 28, 2022, between Golden Grove, East Coast Demerara (ECD), and Mon Repos, ECD, while being in the company of others, with the intent to strike terror, they used wood and other materials to block, burn and damage the public road.

They were not required to plead to the indictable charges that were laid contrary to Section 309 (A) (1) (b) (ii) of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01.

Burke was represented by Attorney-at-Law Eusi Anderson, while the others were represented by Attorneys-at-Law Dexter Todd and Dexter Smartt. They were released on $300,000 bail each.

As per the condition of bail, the defendants are required to lodge their passports with the Clerk of Court and report to the Cove and John Police Station on the 14th day of each month.

Their matter has been adjourned until February

father of one and resident of Haslington, ECD.

Wanted bulletins were issued for: Walkie Glasgow of Golden Grove, ECD; Trotman Tixey, alias “Quincy”, of Nabaclis, ECD; Sukie Reginal of Golden Grove, ECD; “Carlos” of Golden Grove, ECD; “Ray Ray/Lilly” of Golden Grove, ECD; “Nedd” of Golden Grove, ECD; “Blammi” of Golden Grove, ECD; “Dave”

still on the run.

Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the suspects still at large is being asked to contact the Police at: 2292557, 229-2700, 229-2750, 225-6978, 225-8196, 2292019, or the nearest Police station. All information would be treated with strict confidence.

Todd has described the allegations against his clients as being “a bit humor-

while their stalls were vandalised and goods looted.

Armed with cutlasses, knives, iron bars and other handy weapons, looters stormed the Mon Repos Market, claiming that they were retaliating against the

shooting death of Bacchus, which had occurred on June 10, 2022. The looters proceeded to destroy goods, burn stalls and vehicles, shatter windscreens of vehicles, and even assault vendors – who were forced to run into the adjoining streets in fear for their lives. After the looters had made off with fruits, vegetables, clothing, shoes and other articles, vendors were left counting their loss-

sides with debris. Chanting and singing filled the air as residents called for justice for their fellow villager, Bacchus.

Following a thorough probe, Constable Kristoff De Nobrega of the Police Force’s Special Branch Unit was charged with murdering Bacchus, who was reportedly shot several times while allegedly attempting to sell undercover Police ranks an unlicensed firearm at Haslington, ECD.

Constable De Nobrega is currently on remand for the capital offence.

Two other Police ranks, a Corporal and a Sergeant, were also charged in relation to Bacchus’s death. Corporal Thurston Simon and Sergeant Dameion McLennon were each slapped with a charge of attempt to obstruct the course of justice, contrary to Section 330 of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act.

After the attack on the vendors, the Government had offered them compensation.

es, which amounted to millions of dollars.

Then a protest started on the morning of June 28, 2022, at the Golden Grove Market square had later seen residents blocking the main access roads on both

The compensation offered by President Dr Irfaan Ali amounted to millions of dollars, with one vendor receiving as much as $3M. Another vendor, whose vehicle was damaged, received $1.5M, and another vendor received $2M to compensate for his minibus that was torched by a looter. (G1)

The wanted bulletins that were issued by the Guyana Police Force

Pictured are five of the six men who surrendered to the CID Headquarters in the company of lawyers from the law firm Dexter Todd and Associates last Thursday

Magistrate Alisha George

Driver on $1.5M bail for slamming pick-up into crowd, killed 1

A few days later, his lawyer, Senior Counsel Murseline Bacchus made a similar application before Berbice High Court Judge Navindra Singh but it was refused.

When Sattaur appeared before Magistrate Singh for the second time on Friday, February 17, he was granted the hefty bail.

He is to return to court on March 10, when the case is expected to continue.

Thirty-six-year-old contractor Shazad Sattaur, who is accused of driving into a crowd and killing a 50-yearold man, has been released on bail totalling $1.5 million by Reliance Court Magistrate Rabindranauth Singh on several charges, including causing death by dangerous driving.

On Wednesday, February 1, Sattaur of Lot 1294 Glasgow Housing Scheme, East Bank Berbice, was brought before Magistrate Singh on the said charges and was remanded to prison.

To the charge which alleged that on January 10, he drove motor pick-up GZZ 8988 in a dangerous manner, thereby causing the death of Somdatt Indal, called “Fats”, of Canefield Settlement, East Canje, Berbice, Sattaur, a father of three, was not required to enter a plea as it was laid indictable.

Additional charges he faces are: failing to render assistance to the injured persons; failing to stop after an accident; and failing to report the accident. He has pleaded not guilty to these.

Shazad Sattaur, the CEO of N&S Engineering and Contracting Services, which is currently executing several contracts for the Public Works Ministry,

is accused of driving into a group of people outside a wedding house on the morning of Sunday, January 29 in East Canje.

It was reported that during the wee hours of that day, the pick-up vehicle was stationary, facing east on Workshop Street when the driver suddenly drove off at a fast rate of speed, during which he collided with several persons standing on the northern side of the street.

As a result of the collision, Indal died, while Daniel Sackichand, 21,

The truth about…

…Burnham

of Adelphi Village, East Canje, Berbice; 11-year-old Dion Kistnen, a student of Canje Secondary School and of Lot 23 Goed Bananen Land, East Canje; and Leon Revon, 34, of Lot 1143 East Canefield, were all injured.

At the time of the accident, there was reportedly an argument between Sattaur and other persons, after which the pickup, which had been parked there for some time, suddenly pulled out and into the crowd. It has also been reported that the driver of the motor pick-up had fled the scene, but later surrendered to the Police in the company of his lawyer.

According to the Police prosecutor, Sattaur was captured on video recklessly fleeing the scene.

Sattaur’s lawyer, on the other hand, is contending that the street was blocked by a group of about 50 persons who were attending a wedding, and Sattaur stopped and blew his horn, seeking to be allowed to pass. Bacchus told the court that someone pelted a bottle and broke the back windscreen of his client’s pickup, and two persons tried to open the doors of the vehicle.

Meanwhile, only weeks ago, the Public Works Ministry had terminated the contract that was awarded to N&S Contracting Services for construction of the El Dorado Road, Corentyne, Berbice, after it was found that no work had been completed on the road even after a letter of poor performance had been issued to the contractor.

The contract was awarded in early 2022, and the contractor was given a $22 million mobilisation advance, but had done nothing almost a year later. (G1)

As the PNC goes into a frenzy, trying to whitewash the image of Burnham on his 100th birth anniversary, let’s look at what Dr Festus Brotherson – a former PNC ExCo member - said in a paper published by the Ivy League Stanford University. Starting with his vaunted “foreign policy genius”: “The country’s foreign policy was not crafted over the years to serve the objective national interest. Rather, the overriding objective of Guyana’s authoritarian leadership was to do abroad what it had failed to do at home: i.e., to establish legitimacy. With this approach, Burnham sought to follow the strategy outlined by Machiavelli, namely, to legitimize one’s regime by means of glorious foreign adventure or diplomatic success, which would whip up nationalist fervor on the one hand and stifle domestic opposition on the other, wringing grudging support from the latter in the process.” Now you know!!

On the domestic front, this quest for legitimacy also dictated Burnham’s policies: “Burnham’s resurrection of radical socialism was inspired by the opportunity which that ideology afforded to gain near-total authoritarian charge of the society, and to out-radicalize his Marxist rivals in his pursuit of legitimacy. He wedded himself to the exercise of authoritarian measures which socialism justifies. Repeatedly portraying the domestic situation as one of “peaceful revolution,” he explained away resort to coercion and arbitrary action as requisite “revolutionary tactics.” Imagine that!! We were turned into a ”coop socialist republic”, merely to give Burnham cover to rule by brute force!

His increasingly radical turn teed off the US, which couldn’t get rid of Burnham, because they saw Cheddi as “the worse of two evils” so squeezed otherwise: “In the wake of an informal, but effective, Western freeze on economic assistance to Guyana, trade and barter arrangements with communist nations increased significantly. Invariably, these countries took advantage of Guyana’s need to dump their inferior goods and flawed technology on the society, as in the case of a Chinese textile mill, Bulgarian telephones and radio communication equipment, Soviet cars, commercial aircraft and military helicopters, and Yugoslavian buses.” About the boasts on Burnham’s “creative policies”, this is what Brotherson wrote: “Burnham was always on the alert to adopt projects which his counterparts abroad had used to their own advantage in their own countries in hopes such strategies would prove equally successful in garnering personal support for him in Guyana. For example, following a state visit to Tanzania, Burnham announced the “Declaration of Sophia”, in which he introduced the controversial policy that the ruling party should be paramount over the government. This was no more than a thinly disguised version of Julius Nyerere’s Arusha Declaration in that East African country.”

If he were in school, Burnham would’ve been punished for plagiarism!

…Granger

Your Eyewitness was surprised David Granger wasn’t at the PNC ceremonies to tout Burnham. He knows that right now there’s some “swell mouth” between the Norton team and the “sanctimonious gangster”, but you’d think that this was the perfect time for them to kiss and make up! Jeez, the man only turned over his home to house the “Burnham Foundation” keeping Burnham’s legacy alive!! Your Eyewitness hasn’t visited but he guesses it had pics of how Burnham turned Guyana from a flourishing country to a poster child for poverty!! But that’s Burnham’s legacy, no?? But not only that; Granger was a protégé of Burnham –plucked straight out of QC in 1965 and sent off to Mons for training to form the core of Burnham’s new army!! While there were others like Joe Singh etc, Granger obviously showed quite early on that he was willing to toe Burnham’s line. Which is why he was made head of the GDF in 1979 when Rodney was infiltrating it!!

And now, no invite?? Cold!!

…Mashramani

We’ve all been taught that “Mashramani” is an Amerindian word meaning “celebrating of a job well done”!! Not so!! The PNC just concocted a word to give a “national” cover for stealing Trinidad’s carnival as our Republic Day jump-up!!

Granted bail: Shazad Sattaur

Magistrate Rabindranauth Singh

Dead: Somdatt Indal

Lives of Annandale squatters improved with new homes

…no new squatting will be recognised – Housing Minister

The Housing Ministry on Monday handed over brand-new homes to nine families, who had been squatting for some time at Annandale Sea Defence reserve (Sand Reef) on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD).

Each family was handed the keys a move-in ready two-bedroom home at the Annandale New Scheme by Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal. Their monthly payment rate is about $24,000.

“Those for the land were allocated with conditionality that they have to be able to finish their own construction

in a particular time. Here, these ten houses represent the other then but we were able to get nine prequalified. The reason it is one out is because it is an elderly lady and she is putting systems in place to have a support. We would be able to put her on eventually,” Croal told the media.

The homes are part of a commitment made by President Dr Irfaan Ali in 2022 during an outreach in Annandale. During the visit, the poor living conditions activated efforts to assist these areas.

In total, 15 households are occupying the zero-tol-

erance area. Ten families opted for the homes, while the remaining five opted for lands to construct their homes.

Croal stated that the Government is working to address squatting nationwide and no new squatting will be recognised. He, therefore, urged informal settlers to do the ‘right thing’ and to work with the Government.

“We’re moving in an aggressive manner in terms of not recognising any new squatting but we will try to address those that were already in the system because at the end of the day, you

Businessman arrested after over 2kg ganja found buried in backyard

The Police have arrested a 45-year-old businessman of Block 22

Squatting Area Wismar, Linden, after over two kilograms of ganja was found buried in the backyard of his business at Honey Camp Landing, Middle Mazaruni River.

The discovery was made in the wee hours of Monday. Police in a release stated that acting on information received, ranks went to the businessman’s premises at Honey Camp Landing during which a 5-gallon bucket containing two parcels was dug up from the backyard.

Upon inspecting the two parcels, seven smaller parcels were found containing the cannabis. He was, however, told of the offence committed and cautioned, but he denied having any knowledge of the drugs.

He was escorted to the Issano Police Station along with the narcotics where it was weighed and amounted

to 2413.9 grams.

The businessman is presently in custody and he is assisting with investigations.

Housing Minister Collin Croal with recipients of the new homes have a caring and understanding Government too. We know what we have met. Certainly, we have taken that into consideration,” he relayed.

Croal clarified that these programmes are happening simultaneously with other initiatives through the Housing Ministry to allocate houses and house lots.

“It doesn’t take away from our mandate of 50,000 house lots or construction of more houses for per-

sons. These are all part of what you’re talking about when you’re building a One Guyana. It is also addressing every section of society, including the vulnerable.”

The relocation process is being facilitated by CH&PA’s Community Development Department. Each home is constructed at a cost of $5 million. The families were engaged by commercial banks to source funding for the construction of their homes.

By the ending of February, the Ministry will commence dismantling of the squatting structures.

For 2022, over 400 titles were issue to squatters. In some instances, squatters have protested the relocation to another area when approached by the Ministry but notwithstanding, the Minister has reiterated several times that infrastructural works take precedence and they will have to move.

(G12)

Bomb scare forces suspension of school at St Rose’s

What was expected to be a typical Monday morning for students and staffers at the St Rose’s High School on Church Street, Georgetown, turned into a bomb scare, forcing an evacuation as the building was combed for explosives.

When Guyana Times arrived on the scene, the Guyana Fire Service and the bomb squad were already on site. Persons reported that they were directed to leave the building at about 09:45h. As students, teachers and security personnel waited outside, the inspec-

tion was carried out.

Shortly after, students were told that school was suspended for the day.

It was almost two hours after when the personnel on site indicated that they did not detect any signs of an explosive. Students remaining within the vicinity were told

the building is cleared.

This report comes on the heels of a similar incident one month ago at The Bishops’ High School.

The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) said it had received a report at that time, alleging that a bomb had been planted at the institution on Carmichael Street, Georgetown. Shortly after

the call was received, the building was evacuated and firefighters were actively on the ground investigating the report with the bomb squad.

Prior to the call to The Bishops’ High School, another had surfaced mere hours before regarding a false report of a fire at the school.

The last bomb threat that was made on an educa-

tional facility prior to 2023 was in February 2019 at the University of Guyana’s (UG) Turkeyen Campus. A number of threats were sent to several online news outlets, which were promptly reported to the Police. This had caused UG to be placed on lockdown owing to the bomb scare. (G12)

The building was cleared and students returned into the compound

The Guyana Fire Service at the scene

Bunty Singh crowned Chutney King 2023

Three-time Chutney King, Bunty Singh on Sunday evening copped his 4th title when he outshone his competitors at the 2023 competition which was held in Berbice.

The singer won the competition in 2017 and 2018 but in 2019, he placed second and in 2020 he reclaimed the title.

Singh, however, performed before a massive crown which saw 12 other singers taking to the stage at the Classic Hotel Parking Lot, Skeldon.

Coming in second was Sonia Singh followed by Roger Hinds in the third spot and Haresh Singh, who is no stranger to the competition, in fourth position.

Teen charged for causing labourer’s death in hit and run …released

on $320,000 bail

An 18-year-old man, who allegedly fled the scene after hitting a labourer with an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV), killing him, has been placed on $300,000 bail on a causing death charge.

Adon De Silva of Lot 621

Charity Housing Scheme, Essequibo Coast, was taken before Magistrate Chrystel Lambert at the Charity Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

He was charged with causing the death of 36-yearold Manniram Sooklall of Lot 403 Charity Extension Scheme, by driving the ATV in a manner dangerous to the public.

He was released to $300,000 bail on that charge. For allegedly driving the vehicle without a licence, De Silva was granted $20,000 bail. Meanwhile his father, Henry De Silva, was also charged with permitting his son to use an unregistered vehicle.

The De Silvas, who were represented by Attorneyat-Law Bernard Da Silva, pleaded not guilty to their respective charges.

March 20 is their next court date.

According to information received, on November 3, 2022, at about 19:00h, the ATV driven by the 18-yearold was proceeding along the

road at an alleged fast rate of speed when the driver suddenly lost control and collided with Sooklall, who was

standing in front of his home.

The Police stated that the teen reportedly stopped at the scene, but after seeing

Sooklall lying on the roadway motionlessly, in a pool of blood, he fled without providing any assistance to the injured man.

The injured man was left on the scene for a while until he was picked up by a public-spirited citizen and rushed to the Charity Oscar Joseph Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Residents in the neighbourhood are claiming that the teenager would usually traverse the street with the motor raptor at a fast rate of speed. Guyana Times understands that Adon is the grandson of the Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva. (G1)

Magistrate Chrystel Lambert

Dead: Manniram Sooklall

The crowd at the Chutney Monarch in Berbice at Classic Hotel Parking Lot, Skeldon

Chutney King Bunty Singh

2nd place winner Sonia Singh

Road carnage continues West Ruimveldt youth dies in earlymorning accident

AWest Ruimveldt, Georgetown youth met his demise in the wee hours of Monday after he reportedly lost control of the motorcycle he was riding and crashed into a utility pole.

Dead in 21-year-old Anthony Pierre, popularly known as “Chip” of West Ruimveldt Estate Scheme, Georgetown. Police stated that the accident occurred at about 00:20h along Vlissengen Road, Georgetown.

Based on reports received, the young man was riding a motorcycle bearing registration number CK 7223 and while in the vicinity of the Botanical Gardens, he lost control and collided with a utility pole. At the time, he was reportedly speeding.

As a result of the impact, he sustained several injuries to his head and body and was pronounced dead on the scene by Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) who responded. Investigations are continuing.

Over the past week, several young people lost their lives on Guyana’s roadways,

with one of the most recent being that of 21-year-old Altaf Lalman of Line Path Corentyne, Berbice.

It was reported that a pick-up, bearing licence number PNN 4343, was travelling on the Crabwood Creek Public Road when the driver attempted to make a left turn but collided with Lalman, who was riding motorcycle CL 8024.

The young man and his pillion rider were flung off the motorcycle following the collision. They were picked

up and taken to the Skeldon Public Hospital where Lalman was pronounced dead.

In another accident on Saturday, 24-year-old Ezekiel Kampadoo of Tain, Corentyne, was killed after he reportedly lost control of the car he was driving and slammed into a utility pole along Auchlyne Public Road, Corentyne, Berbice.

Police stated that the young man was speeding at the time of the accident which also left an 18-yearold injured. Nevertheless, as a result of the collision, the car flipped several times and ended up in a trench on the southern side of the road.

They were both pulled from the wreckage by public-spirited citizens and taken to Port Mourant Public Hospital, where they were examined and admitted. Due to the severity of the injuries the driver incurred, he was transferred to New Amsterdam Public Hospital, where he succumbed while receiving medical attention.

Further, 17-year-old Bibi Sophia Mohammed of Non-Pareil Railway

Embankment, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was on Friday evening killed while her sister remains in hospital following an accident along the Coldingen Public Road, ECD.

Based on reports received, the two sisters were on an electric bike when they were struck by a truck. It was reported that the truck was proceeding along the Coldingen Public Road when the driver alleged that he left a ‘bump up’ and upon checking, he saw the two sisters lying on the road next to an electric bike.

The girls were picked up

and escorted to Georgetown Public Hospital, where they were examined but Bibi Mohammed was pronounced dead on arrival.

Earlier in the year, the Guyana National Road Safety Council (GNRSC) promoted road safety and encouraged responsible driving while adding that it would be collaborating with the Guyana Police Force to reduce traffic accidents and fatalities by 50 per cent this year.

Deputy Commissioner of Operations (ag) Ravindradat Budhram in a recent televised programme stated

that the Police Force has made note of the alarming figures as it relates to road accidents, and is working to arrest this issue.

“These will be addressed… we have noted also the number of vehicles that are coming into our country, and the number of schemes… there is a need for traffic enforcement, there is a need for education throughout our schools, there is a need to educate our pedestrians…”, he said. It was also noted that speeding is one of the major contributing factors of road fatalities.

Dead: Anthony Pierre

Dead: Altaf Lalman

Dead: Ezekiel Kampadoo Dead: Bibi Sophia Mohammed

Gaps in protecting LGBTI persons identified in Inclusion Index report …as

SASOD works to address discrimination at policy level

While Guyana’s laws have provided for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) persons within society, there are loopholes where policies do not offer explicit protection or inclusion of these persons.

The report on Piloting Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) Inclusion Index was launched on Monday at the Herdmanston Lodge, Georgetown.

The Index measures the level of inclusion of LGBTI people in strategic areas such as health, education, political and civil participation, economic empowerment; and safety and violence. It was developed by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the World Bank and other international partners.

In January 2022, SASOD Guyana participated in a

global training programme by the UNDP on how to pilot the index. It was decided that it would be piloted in Guyana to which consultant, Kesaundra Alves was hired.

Data on these areas were analysed after canvasing the legal and policy landscape.

Inclusion from highest to lowest reflected health, politics and civil participation, economic well-being education and violence.

“We have no laws, thankfully since the cross-dressing law was struck down, that criminalise people on the basis of gender expression. That was a positive thing, but of course, we have existence of laws that criminalise same sex activity. In relation to gender recognition, we don’t have the right to choose our gender. That’s assigned to you at birth.”

“We did not find any restrictive laws that restrict freedom of expression, civil participation, etc of LGBTI persons and we found that NGOs are able to register freely. We have multiple organisations in Guyana that cater to the LGBTI population,” she underscored.

According to Alves, the Constitution of Guyana provides for overarching protec-

CDC donates food, hygiene supplies to migrant group in Lethem

tion from discrimination for Guyanese in Article 149 (2) and the grounds under which it is prohibited. However, there is no expressed inclusion of Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, Sex Characteristics (SOGIESC).

“We found that in relation to employment, we have a Prevention of Discrimination Act that speaks to discrimination in employment. It does not cover for Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Gender Expression. So, LGBT would not be protected under the Prevention of Discrimination Act. It does provide for protection on the basis of sex.”

LGBTI inclusion

Meanwhile, Founder of Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD), Joel Simpson said this study now gives a baseline and quantitative measure as it relates to LGBTI inclusion.

“The issue of inclusion refers to you making specific provisions for disadvantaged groups because you recognise that these groups have been marginalised his-

torically, socially, economically in every sphere of society and you make specific provision to bring them in to society so that they aren’t left behind… What this methodology does is that it looks at inclusion at the level of laws and policies… It also draws to our attention, how the society is far ahead of the policymakers,” Simpson noted.

Highlighting that the organisation is significantly ahead of the country’s laws, Simpson shared that engagements have materialised with several sectoral

Ministers of Government.

Particularly, the meeting with Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira focused on addressing discrimination.

“That was a very, very fruitful discussion on the Prevention of Discrimination Act 1997. We discussed what would be an appropriate strategy for advancing an amendment to that legislation. One of the things we proposed is to sensitise, in particular, social services committee,” Simpson noted. (G12)

The Civil Defence Commission (CDC), on Sunday, donated a quantity of much needed resources to a significant group of Venezuelan Indigenous migrants living in Lethem, Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo).

The intervention surfaced after the Mayor of Lethem indicated that the

migrants are living in lessthan-ideal circumstances in the town’s industrial district.

An average of 50 households, mainly of women and small children, are currently residing in the area that the Mayor has temporarily provided. The location has access to potable water, and as such, the Commission

has agreed to donate three water tanks to assist with proper water storage. Additionally, 60 collapsible water containers; 60 food hampers, at least 24 IOM baby kits and a large quantity of towels and bathing soaps have been distributed. Among the migrants are at least ten pregnant women.

SASOD founder Joel Simpson

4 safaris launched for 2023

Four safaris were launched on Monday as Rainforest Tours collaborates with the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), Guyana Beverage Inc and Guyana Oil Company (GuyOil).

The 2023 safaris are to Moraikobai; Orinduik; Mahdia to Bartica and the South Pakaraima Mountain Safari. All of the safaris will be held at various periods throughout the year with the Moraikobai safari taking place on February 23 to 25.

Director of Rainforest Tours, Frank Singh on Monday said that the Georgetown to Orinduik

safari will be held in celebration of their 20th anniversary and their newest addition

is the Mahdia to Bartica safari.

“The third one now…this year we’re going to start it…it’s going to be from the 17 of August to the 21. This is the first year we’re attempting this, it’s going to be from Georgetown to Mahdia…into Bartica,” Singh Explained.

Meanwhile, the Director of GTA, Kamrul Baksh announced the Tourism Ministry is expected to launch 15 new tourism products and also

explore and open more areas in Guyana to create more tourism experiences, boasting that in just two and a half years they have launched twenty-seven new tourism experiences.

“We’ve launched about 27 new tourism experiences within just two and a half years and we will continue to launch new experiences. This year we have the objective of launching fifteen new tourism products as we…open out new areas in the country making them accessible to Guyanese and all others. This year we’re building out new products in South Rupununi,” Baksh Shared.

Meanwhile, General Manager of GuyOil, Molly Hassan shared that her team is looking forward to this year’s safaris, adding that over the years, the company has been investing mil-

lions into these safaris and they have seen great value for money.

“For the past 17 years GuyOil has stood behind the management and we’re here today to reaffirm that we will be there again this year. We are the largest distributors [of] energy and as a company providing energy, we’re happy to be in the right place. We will be testing the skills of those drivers during the safari. We are very happy to partner again…we have been putting millions into the safari over the years and… we know there was value for money and we’re very pleased to once again rekindle the partnership and take it this year two steps further.”

She noted too that her team is quite excited to take part in this year’s events.

Additionally, Guyana

Beverage Inc will also be a part of this year safari’s and will have its newest Kure Oxygen Water available for the adventure.

The Rainforest Tour company was formed by Frank and Sabita Singh in 1995, where in the beginning, the business was run from their residence. Frank Singh had extensive knowledge of the country due to his previous business endeavours, and with that and his deep love for nature and the environment, they created a company that would focus on hospitality, customer satisfaction and pure adventure. This concept has now put their company at the very top of the industry.

Anyone interested in joining the safaris could contact the Pakaraima Safari Club or Rainforest Tours on (592)-624-3298.

GTA Director Kamrul Baksh along with Rainforest Tours Director Frank Singh and GuyOil General Manager Molly Hassan at the launching of the 2023 safaris

US military team begins 2-week medical mission in Guyana

…as US$225,000 in supplies to be donated to medical facilities

The United States’ Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team (LAMAT), in partnership with Guyana’s Health Ministry, will perform surgical operations, provide dental services, and conduct professional knowledge exchanges over the next two weeks here.

A release from the US embassy in Georgetown said that the exchange will occur from February 20 through March 3 as part of the US Southern Command’s (USSOUTHCOM) Enduring Promise mission.

LAMAT, the release noted, is a medical team composed of approximately 29 US Air Force and Army medical and dental professionals and support staff who will provide free general surgery, emergency room care and dental care at Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation and West Demerara Regional Hospital.

The Health Ministry’s Deputy Director for Regional Health Services, Dr Veronica Griffith, welcomed the team at GPHC.

Dr Griffith expressed excitement in developing the military-civilian partnership between the US team and the medical professionals in Guyana.

LAMAT operations have been coordinated with the Ministry of Health and hospital medical directors to take advantage of additional operating room capacity without displacing medical providers.

It added that the US medical professionals will

work in tandem with local doctors to ensure continuity of care following all surgical procedures. The team brings with it the medicines and supplies necessary for the operations and will leave surplus supplies with the hospital. Overall, approximately US$225,000 in supplies are being donated to medical facilities.

Medical patients are selected in coordination with hospital medical directors,

based upon the types of surgeries and procedures the US medical team is certified to perform; primarily GI surgeries such as hernias and cyst excisions. The US dental team will focus on treating underserved populations, concentrating on cleaning, fillings, extractions and preventative care.

“My team is humbled to have been invited by

the Ministry of Health and US Ambassador to Guyana to participate in this much needed operation,” said Lt Col Gentry Mobley, LAMAT Mission Commander.

“It is important to the US to provide whatever help we can to take care of people in need. Our team is prepared to engage in Guyana, whether that be in the operating theatre,

the dental clinic, helping with emergency room or experiencing the culture.”

In addition to Guyana, the LAMAT team completed operations in Suriname and will proceed to St Lucia to conduct medical assistance operations, providing relief to overwhelmed medical facilities and improving the Region’s collective ability to meet complex global challenges.

The networking opportunities offered by the recently concluded International Energy Conference and Expo, came in for high praise from offshore company El Dorado Offshore, which revealed that a number of job seekers have been added to their database.

El Dorado Offshore, which is a manpower and recruitment agency, recently participated in and exhibited at the Guyana Energy Conference and Expo. In a statement subsequently, El Dorado Head Sherry Ferrell praised the opportunity the conference offered to network and build its database.

According to Ferrell, through the conference they were able to engage with job seekers and add them to their database. The company was also able to network with stakeholders in the energy sector. According to Ferrell, this is an exciting

time in Guyana’s history.

“The Guyana Energy Conference provided a great opportunity for us to network with many of our stakeholders in the energy sector. We were also able

to meet with job seekers who were added to our database. We are happy to be part of this exciting time in Guyana's history, and to play a role in the country's development,” Ferrell said.

It was also explained that El Dorado was also able to share its expertise and experience in human resource management and personnel logistics. They

were also able to engage with key stakeholders in the energy sector, including Government representatives, energy experts, and industry leaders.

“With the participation of several regional Heads of Government and experts in the energy sector, this conference was a valuable platform for exchanging ideas and building partnerships that can contribute to the sustainable development of the energy sector in Guyana and the surrounding regions.”

“The company shared its expertise and experience in the field of human resource management and personnel logistics to explore ways to contribute to the growth and development of the energy sector in Guyana and beyond,” the company added.

El Dorado is operational in Guyana, Columbia, Suriname and Trinidad and

Tobago. According to the company, it employs more than 500 professionals. They made it clear that they are committed to local content and the growth of the oil and gas sector.

“EDO is committed to supporting the growth and development of the energy sector in Guyana and the wider Caribbean Region. Along with Sherry Ferrell, Sarona Samaroo and Jynelle Mohamed from Trinidad and Tobago, Torasha Faerber from Suriname, and members of the local EDO team attended the conference.”

“With a team of over 500 professionals, onshore and offshore, in Colombia, Guyana, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago, EDO is well-positioned to support the development of the energy sector and to provide its clients with the highest quality of manpower and recruitment services,” the company’s statement said.

LAMAT Biomedical Equipment Technician, Master Sgt Timothy McClelland receives a tour of the emergency department at GPHC (US Air Force photo by Senior Alexus Wilco)

Dr Cheman Ramdharry provides a tour of the operating theatre to LAMAT surgery team members at GPHC (US Air Force photo by Senior Airman Alexus Wilco)

From left: Logistics Coordinator Nyron Wray; Business Development Manager – International Ventures, Jynelle Mohamed; Senior Human Resources Officer Torasha Faerber; EDO Vice President Sarona Samaroo; Senior Human Resources and Engagement Officer Thalia Wilson; EDO Guyana Head Sherry Ferrell and Customer Care Team Lead Jahdiel Harry

Regional Death toll from Brazil rains hits 40; Lula calls for safer housing

The death toll from devastating rainfall in south-eastern Brazil rose to 40 on Monday, official figures showed, as President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva visited the region and said homes should no longer be built in areas at risk of landslides and major floods.

Authorities in the state of São Paulo said on Monday four more people had been killed in addition to 36 tallied a day earlier, but more casualties were still expected to be reported as three dozen people remained missing.

Lula flew over the coastal town of São Sebastião alongside Cabinet Ministers and pledged to help rebuild the town of some 91,000 people by constructing new houses in safer places.

He also said the Government must work to restore key infrastructure facilities such as roads

damaged by landslides.

The floods in coastal São Paulo state were the latest in a series of such disasters to have recently struck Brazil, where shoddy construction, often on hillsides, has tended to have tragic consequences during the country's rainy season.

"Sometimes nature takes us by surprise, but sometimes we also tempt nature," Lula said in a speech after meeting with São Paulo Governor Tarcisio de Freitas and São

Bus carrying migrants in Mexico crashes, killing 17

Abus carrying migrants from Venezuela, Colombia and Central America crashed in central Mexico, killing 17 people, officials in Puebla state said on Monday.

The accident occurred on a highway on Sunday afternoon as the bus with 45 passengers headed north, Puebla's Interior Minister Julio Huerta told reporters.

"Fifteen people at the moment of the accident lost their lives," he told a news conference. Another 15 were hospitalised, two of whom later

Sebastião Mayor Felipe Augusto to coordinate their response to the disaster.

"I think it's important that neither happen," he added. "I express my solidarity with the people of São Sebastião and I hope this never happens again."

The deluge happened during Brazil's Carnival holiday period, when thousands flock to the region's beaches, likely aggravating the human toll of the natural disaster. (Excerpt from Reuters)

T&T CoP hails safe start to Carnival 2023

Trinidad

Commissioner of Police (CoP) Erla Christopher says the commencement of the Mother of all Carnivals was matched by the "mother of all Carnivals Safety and Security Operation", and the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) is reporting that J’Ouvert celebrations across all 10 Divisions were safe and secure Monday morning.

The Commissioner said she was extremely pleased with the combined efforts of all 10 Divisions in ensuring that there were no major incidents and that revellers and spectators were kept safe during Monday’s morning’s activities.

She hailed "meticulous planning and preparations, training and ramped-up anti-crime and

road traffic exercises" in the lead-up to Carnival 2023.

The TTPS reported zero incidents across the divisions with CoP Christopher saying officers will continue their heightened presence and anti-crime operations across the country

over the next two days to ensure the entire Carnival period remains safe.

CoP Christopher joined her officers on duty in the Port of Spain and Northern Divisions Monday morning during J’ouvert Celebrations.

(Trinidad Guardian)

Mexican President flags water-scarcity of northern state eyed for Tesla plant

Mexico's President said on Monday the northern Mexican state of Nuevo Leon, considered the front-runner to land a major investment from Tesla Inc, struggles with a lack of water and touted the benefits of the poorer southern region where he has fought to boost development.

The comments come amid fears from some investors and analysts that Mexico's geographic advantages as a nearshoring destination for businesses look-

ing to sell into the United States are somewhat dampened by the heavy-handed influence of the Federal Government.

The state of Nuevo Leon at the US border had emerged as the top contender in Tesla's hunt for a site to open its first plant in Mexico, yet President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said the electric car producer has not yet made a final decision and he would speak with company executives about the location.

"There are favourable conditions in Nuevo Leon. They have a skilled workforce, they have engineers, it's very close to the border," he told a news conference. "But the lack of water?"

Lopez Obrador said he would emphasise to Tesla the need for careful planning around water, electricity and other services, noting certain northern zones ban water extraction while the southeast holds 70 per cent of Mexico's water. (Excerpt from Reuters)

died, he said. Five others remain in critical condition.

Puebla state officials did not specify how many of the dead and injured were migrants, and Mexico's migration institute did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Migrants often take risky routes to transit Mexico on their way to the US border.

A 56-year-old Colombian man was among the dead, Colombia's Foreign Ministry said in a statement. The survivors included two men and a woman also from Colombia who were hospitalised in

Puebla, and an uninjured man who was turned over to migration authorities in the neighbouring state of Oaxaca. Mexican media reported that the bus crashed when the driver lost control of the vehicle. Images published by television station Milenio showed parts of a bus crushed and mangled.

Last week, dozens of migrants were killed in Panama after the bus they were travelling in fell off a cliff, marking the worst migration accident in the country's history.

(Reuters)

Antigua and Barbuda to host lecture series on Silver Economy as part of ECCB 40th anniversary celebrations

Antigua and Barbuda will be host to a lecture series on “Transforming Health and Wellness: Use of Traditional Medicines! -- Silver Economy” as the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) released its 40th anniversary calendar of events.

The ECCB last week held a media briefing explaining the decision-making behind the planning of the calendar and the seven-part lecture series.

“There is a Lecture Series sub-committee, that comprises persons across the bank, economists and others outside of the bank that they rely on and what they looked at was the UN sustainable goals and the colours associated with those goals,” ECCB Deputy Governor, Dr Valda Henry explained.

According to Dr Henry,

the ECCB this year will be pursuing an agenda of “implementation” and the lecture series will look at the various areas that the region needs to address.

“Antigua has been, for a large extent, a leader in traditional medicine as I can think of a number of persons who are naturalists; there are strong leaning on that [medicine],” she added.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines traditional medicine as the knowledge, skills and practices based on the experiences indigenous to different cultures, used in the maintenance of health and in the prevention, diagnosis, improvement or treatment of physical and mental illnesses.

“The question is how do we take those herbs – what are the uses, can it be used for everyone [and] what are

the dosages –so we take these traditional herbs sometimes without understanding the implications,” Dr Henry noted.

The Silver Economy, also described as the Senior Market, is the name given to markets that meet senior citizens’ needs.

According to the Santander website, the three pillars of the silver economy are technological innovation, entertainment and training, and jobs.

On February 28, Anguilla will host the first lecture in the series called “Food Security –Blue and Green Economy”.

St Lucia will be after Antigua and Barbuda with its series “Powering a Modern Saint Lucia – Green and Golden Economy” scheduled for April 20.

(Antigua Observer)

No election money in Jamaica

There is no provision in the 2023-2024 budget for the holding of Local Government Elections, which it appears will not be held before the end of this fiscal year on March 31.

The Local Government Elections were initially due in 2020, but have been postponed on two occasions since then.

Last January, the House of Representatives approved the Representation of the People (Postponement of Elections to Municipal Corporations and City Municipalities) Act, 2022 before the Senate also approved the postponement for a further 12 months, to be held no later than February 2023.

At that time, Local Government and Rural Development Minister Desmond McKenzie, who piloted the Bill, told the House that given the ongoing novel coronavirus pandemic, in its fourth wave, the holding of an election at that time would put the country at greater

public health risk.

He also argued that public schools would have to be used as polling and counting centres, and the desire not to disrupt face-to-face engagement also factored into the decision to postpone the elections.

“As the Minister responsible for local government I wish to assure the House, and the country, that we are still committed to having the next Local Government Elections in the shortest practicable

time,” said McKenzie during the debate.

“The commitment of this Administration to the local government system is well known. It is a critical part of national life, and it will remain unthreatened. Despite the fact that we are seeking to postpone for an additional year, it does not jeopardise the existence of local government in this country,” he said.

(Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Landslides are seen after severe rainfall in São Sebastião, Brazil, February 20, 2023 (Reuters/Amanda Perobelli)

In this September 1, 2020 file photo representatives of the Jamaica Labour Party (left) and People’s National Party check their voters’ list during the September 2020 General Election (Naphtali Junior photo)

CoP Erla Christopher joined her officers on duty in the Port of Spain and Northern Divisions Monday morning during J’ouvert Celebrations

Oil rises 1% on China demand hopes and supply concerns

Oil prices rose over 1% on Monday, buoyed by optimism over Chinese demand, continued production curbs by major producers and Russia's plans to rein in supply.

Brent crude settled up US$1.07, or 1.3%, at US$84.07 a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate crude (WTI) for March, which expires today, last rose 85 cents, or 1.1%, at US$77.19.

Volumes were muted on Monday because of a US market holiday for Presidents' Day.

Both crude benchmarks settled US$2 lower on Friday for a decline of about 4% over the week after the United States reported higher crude and gasoline inventories.

Analysts expect China's oil imports to hit a record high in 2023 to meet increased demand for transportation fuel and as new refineries come on stream.

"The optimism around China today may be responsible for the gains we're seeing in crude, which would make a lot of sense given it's the world's largest importer and expected to recover strongly from the COVID transition," said Craig Erlam, senior markets analyst at OANDA in London.

China and India have become major buyers of Russian crude amid Western sanctions on Russian oil and more recently, embargoes and price caps because of the Ukraine war.

In India, the world's third-biggest oil importer, crude imports rose to a six-month high in January, Government data showed.

China's Commerce Ministry has met independent oil refiners to discuss their deals with Russia, five sources with knowledge of the matter said, imports which have saved Chinese buyers billions of dollars.

"The Government wants to understand how much independent refiners could possibly buy and their actual appetite for such imports," said one source with direct knowledge of the discussions.

Russia plans to cut oil production by 500,000 barrels per day (bpd), equating to about 5% of its output, in March after the West imposed price caps on Russian oil and oil products.

Russia is part of the OPEC+ producer group comprising the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and allies, which agreed in October to cut oil production targets by 2 million bpd until the end of 2023.

Future oil supply shortages are likely to drive prices toward US$100 a barrel by the end of the year, Goldman Sachs analysts said in a Feb 19 note.

Prices will move higher "as the market pivots back to deficit with underinvestment, shale constraints and OPEC discipline ensuring supply does not meet demand", they wrote. (Reuters)

Around the World

Panic as Turkiye, Syria rocked again by 6.3M earthquake

Amagnitude 6.3 earthquake struck southern Turkiye near the Syrian border late on Monday, setting off panic and further damaging buildings two weeks after the country's worst earthquake in modern history left tens of thousands dead.

Two Reuters reporters said the tremors were strong and lasting, damaging buildings and leaving dust in the night air in central Antakya city, where it was centred. It was also felt in Egypt and Lebanon, Reuters reporters said.

The European Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) said the tremor struck at a shallow depth of 2 km (1.2 miles).

Police patrolled Antakya while ambulances rushed to the quake-hit area near the city centre. Two people fainted, while others filled the streets around the cen-

tral park making emergency calls on cell phones.

Reuters saw Turkish rescue teams running around on foot after the latest quake to check on resi-

dents, most of whom were living in temporary tents after the tremors two weeks ago.

Muna Al Omar, a resident, said she was in a tent in a park in central Antakya when the earthquake hit.

"I thought the earth was going to split open under my feet," she said, crying as she held her 7-year-old son in her arms.

"Is there going to be another aftershock?" she asked.

The two larger earthquakes that hit on Feb 6, which also rocked neighbouring Syria, left more than a million homeless and killed far more than the latest official tally of 46,000 people in both countries.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Biden visits Zelensky in Kyiv and says Putin 'dead wrong' on Ukraine war

The US will back Ukraine in its fight against Russia for "as long as it takes" President Joe Biden said as he made an unannounced and symbolic visit to the capital, Kyiv.

"We have every confidence you're going to continue to prevail," he said.

Biden's first trip to Ukraine as President came days before the first anniversary of Russia's invasion.

He said President Putin had been "dead wrong" to think Russia could outlast Ukraine and its Western allies.

He met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and the pair visited a memorial to soldiers

who have died in the nine years since Russia annexed Crimea and its proxy forces captured parts of the eastern Donbas region.

Biden's presence was intended to reaffirm America's "unwavering commitment to Ukraine's democracy, sovereignty, and territorial integrity", according to a White

House statement.

The New York Times reported that he took a 10hour train journey from Poland to reach Kyiv.

He left Ukraine on Monday to travel to Poland.

After the visit, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced a new package of security assis-

tance for Ukraine valued at US$450M (£373M), including ammunition for howitzers and the HIMARS rocket system, Javelin missiles, and air surveillance radars.

The US will also provide Kyiv with an extra US$10M (£8.3M) in emergency assistance "to keep Ukraine's energy infrastructure up and running", Blinken said.

A new wave of sanctions against individuals and companies "that are trying to evade or backfill Russia's war machine" will also be announced later this week.

Zelensky said: "The results of this visit will surely be seen and will surely be reflected on the battlefield in liberating our territories."

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Japan aims to raise age of consent from 13 to 16

Apanel of the Japanese Justice Ministry has proposed raising the age of consent from 13 to 16.

It forms part of a wider overhaul of Japan's laws on sex crimes, after multiple rape acquittals in 2019 caused outcry.

The proposal also aims to criminalise the grooming of minors and expand the definition of rape.

The statute of limitations for reporting rape will also be increased to 15 from 10 years.

Currently, Japan has the lowest age of consent in developed countries, and the lowest in the G7 group.

In Germany and Italy the age is 14, in Greece and France it is 15 and in the UK and many US states it is 16.

The current law in Japan means victims of rape need to prove that there was "violence and intimidation" used during the rape and that it was "im-

in sex crime overhaul

Mass protests as Israel moves ahead with judicial ‘reform’

Tens of thousands of Israelis are protesting against the Government’s plan to pass a judicial reform bill that they say threatens democracy.

possible to resist" to secure a conviction.

The panel has not changed this wording but instead added other factors including intoxication, drugging, being caught off guard and psychological control into the definition.

Justice Ministry official Yusuke Asanuma said that this "isn't meant to make it easier or harder" for victims to win a rape case but that it should make verdicts "more

consistent".

The re-examination of the sex crime laws comes after widespread demonstrations in 2019 following a number of acquittals.

The government could pass the law as early as summer. Despite the potential change to the age of consent, an exception will still exist for intercourse between people who are at least 13 and who have an age gap of less than five years.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Demonstrators from across Israel descended on Jerusalem on Monday to rally near the Knesset for a second straight week ahead of the first reading of the legislation to change the way judges are picked.

Many critics say it will upend the country’s system of checks and balances and concentrate power in the hands of the Prime Minister. They also say that Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister who is on trial on corruption charges, has a conflict of interest.

Protesters accuse the

Government of a power grab, and weekly protests in Tel Aviv since early January have drawn tens of thousands of people.

The Government – the most right-wing in Israel’s history – is forging ahead with the plan despite the unprecedented demonstrations, warnings from military and business leaders, and calls for restraint by the United States.

The bill would give elected representatives more control of the judicial system by giving the government a de facto majority in the process to nominate judges.

Currently, jurists are chosen by a panel overseen by the justice minister. It includes judges, lawmakers and lawyers representing the Israeli Bar Association.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

People react after an earthquake in Antakya in Hatay province, Turkiye, February 20, 2023

Japan saw protests in 2019 after a series of rape and sexual abuse acquittals

DAILY HOROSCOPES

Don’t share too much information until you have sorted out the pros and cons. Reevaluate your relationships and consider who is an excellent candidate to work alongside.

(March 21-April 19)

Stubbornness and hesitation should be avoided. Verify information and head for the finish line. Your vision, hands-on help and openness will win favors and support.

(April 20-May 20)

Do what you do best, and don’t let jealousy or emotional manipulation point you in the wrong direction. Take a moment to evaluate how you can help others and still reach the goals you set for yourself.

PEANUTS

(May 21-June 20)

Don’t take on too much, or you’ll miss out on something special. Coordinate your plans to include people and activities offering a different perspective on life, love and happiness.

(June 21-July 22)

Play to win and let your charm dazzle someone you want to impress. Be open about your intentions. Personal growth and romance are apparent. Support a group that’s addressing an issue you care about.

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(July 23-Aug. 22)

Traveling or attending a conference will encourage you to try something you’ve been afraid to pursue. Don’t let fear of failure hold you back. Embrace challenges with open arms.

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Time spent with colleagues, clients or classmates will lead to fresh insight and intelligent solutions. Start a discussion and hash out what you are willing to do.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

Listen to complaints and find solutions. Compromising and finding unique ways to get along with others will make your life easier. Get involved in something creative for a fresh perspective.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Tell it like it is, or someone will correct you. Look on the bright side, but don’t lose sight of your responsibilities. Use intelligence to create a financially sound plan.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

Consider the past and what you must do to improve your life. A home improvement project or changing your lifestyle or living arrangements will set you on a positive path. Believe in yourself.

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Offer hands-on help, but don’t give away money you cannot afford to donate. Reach out to someone you lost touch with and pick up where you left off. A change of location could be in the offing.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

(Feb. 20-March 20)

Stick to the truth and ask questions to avoid making mistakes. Get the facts and make decisions that won’t jeopardize your position or long-term goals. Adjust your spending to stay within budget.

Berbice name star-studded team

…Chandrika to captain Select XI

GCB Select XI. The team’s Vice Captain is First-Class pacer Demetri Cameron, and features Guyana Under-19 Captain Alvin Mohabir, off-spinner Jonathan Rampersaud and legspinner Zeynul Ramsammy, who were also members of the Guyana Under-19 team.

Inter-county Super-50 champions Berbice have named a star-studded team to compete in the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Senior Inter-County 4-Day Tournament.

Guyana Harpy Eagles

Vice Captain Veerasammy

Permaul will lead the squad which includes the likes of Shimron Hetmyer, Romario Shepherd, and Kevin Sinclair.

Former West Indies opening batsman Rajendra Chandrika will captain the

Net training sessions for the GCB Select XI will be held from 15:00h to 18:00h on Wednesday, February 22 and Friday, February 24, 2023 at Malteenoes Sports Club Ground. The Select XI comprises players from the three counties who were not initially selected to their county teams.

The Guyana Harpy Eagles team for the third round of the West Indies Championships 2023 are expected to be selected by the end of the second round of the GCB Senior InterCounty Tournament 2023. Those selected to the Harpy

Eagles team for the third round of the West Indies Championships will be unavailable for the county teams for the third and final rounds of the GCB Senior Inter-County Tournament.

Consequently, the re-

spective County Boards are asked to resubmit their teams by 17:00h on March 6, 2023 for the third round of the GCB Senior Inter-County Tournament 2023. Berbice squad:

Back Circle, Bent Street to clash in ‘Legendary Cup’ final

Back Circle and Bent Street will contest the inaugural final of the Rock Auto Trans and Spare Parts ‘Legendary Cup’ Futsal Championship, after commanding semi-final wins on Saturday evening at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue.

Back Circle embarrassed Sparta Boss 5-1 in a thoroughly-lopsided encounter that was essentially over at the end of the first half, as the East Ruimveldt outfit romped to a 3-0 advantage.

Jermaine Beckles recorded a hat-trick over the 18th, 22nd and 33rd minute to lead the rout of their fierce rivals. Stephon Reynolds and Simeon Moore had commenced the

thrashing with conversions in the sixth minute and 10th minute respec-

tively.

For the losers, Darron Niles recorded a consolation goal in the 30th minute.

Similarly, Bent Street dismantled Tiger Bay 7-2. Experienced defender Quincy Adams bagged a hat-trick over the 17th, 38th, and 40th minute. Fellow rearguard operative Marcus Wilson had amassed a quick-fire double to start the carnage in the third and fourth minutes.

Assisting with goals in the 12th and 23rd minute were Daniel Wilson and Trayon Bobb with one apiece. On the other end, Deon Alfred tallied

a brace (10th minute and 20th minute).

The victors now face off for the coveted title on Saturday, February 25 at the same venue. The losers will contest the third-place play-offs.

The winners of the tournament will pocket $500,000 and the championship trophy. The second, third, and fourthplace finishers will receive $250,000, $150,000, and $100,000 respectively.

On the individual side, the Most Valuable Player (MVP) will receive one motorcycle. Similarly, a patron will receive one motorcycle on the night of the final.

Veerasammy

Permaul (Captain); Tomanni Caesar; Adrian Sukhwa; Garfield Benjamin; Shimron Hetmyer; Kevlon Anderson; Jonathan Foo; Kevin Sinclair; Anthony Bramble; Romario Shepherd; Nial Smith; Shamar Joseph; Shamal Angel and Junior Sinclair. The Manager is Travis Harcourt and the Head Coach is Julian Moore. The reserves are Javed Karim, Seon Glasgow, Seon Hetmyer, Suresh Dhanai, Nigel Deodat, and Kwesi

Mickle.

GCB Select XI squad: Rajendra Chandrika (Captain); Alvin Mohabir; Jeremiah Scott; Carlos La Rose; Zachary Jodah; Rajendra Ramballi; Nathan Persaud; David Williams; Mark Gonzales; Demeter Cameron; Jonathan Rampersaud; Zeynul Ramsammy; Sylus Tyndall and Kevin Umroa. The Manager is Ravindranauth Seeram while the Head Coach is Clive Grimmond.

jobs, Sexual problems, Health issues. Tel: 661-1777.

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Rajendra Chandrika

Shimron Hetmyer Keemo Paul Romario Shepherd

Part of the semi-final action in the Rock Auto Trans and Spare Parts ‘Legendary Cup’ Futsal Championship on Saturday evening at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue between Sparta Boss and Back Circle

A scene from the Tiger Bay and Bent Street semi-final encounter in the Rock Auto Trans and Spare Parts ‘Legendary Cup’ Futsal Championship on Saturday evening at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue

West Indies name squads for white-ball series in South Africa

The Cricket West Indies (CWI) Senior Men’s Selection Panel on Monday announced the One-Day International (ODI) and T20 International (T20I) squads for the upcoming series against South Africa.

The West Indies will play three ODIs on March 16, 18 and 21, followed by three T20Is on March 25, 26 and 28.

In the ODIs, Shai Hope will have his first series as Captain with all-rounder Rovman Powell appointed as the new Vice Captain. In the T20Is, Captain Rovman Powell will be supported by a new Vice Captain in batting all-rounder Kyle Mayers.

Fast bowler Shannon Gabriel has earned a recall to the ODI squad on the back of his performances during the CG United Super50 Cup

last November. He was the joint leading wicket-taker, spearheading the Trinidad & Tobago Red Force bowling attack, taking 15 wickets in seven matches at an average of 14.2. He last played ODIs for the West Indies at the International Cricket Council (ICC) Cricket World Cup in July

2019.

Left-arm pacer Obed McCoy has been named in the T20I squad subject to medical clearance. Fast bowler Jayden Seales remains unavailable for selection following a knee injury and subsequent surgery, while another fast bowler, Anderson Phillip has re-

GINMIN on board with Milo U18 tourney

turned to training but is not yet match-fit.

Lead Selector Desmond Haynes said: “We have had some injuries to our fast-bowling pool, so therefore we see Gabriel as an ideal fit heading into South Africa, and the surfaces we expect to play on. It is felt that we need someone to get those early wickets and he is the kind of bowler that can do that. Judging from his performances in the CG United Super50 Cup, he is potentially a wicket-taking option up front.”

Haynes added: “For the T20Is, we have an experienced squad. What we are looking for is to form a cohesive unit and look at the players who we believe can form the nucleus as we build towards doing very well and challenging when we host the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in June 2024.”

Full Squads

One-Day Internationals

Shai Hope (Captain)

Rovman Powell (Vice Captain)

Shamarh Brooks

Yannic Cariah

Keacy Carty

Roston Chase

Shannon Gabriel

Jason Holder

Akeal Hosein

Alzarri Joseph

Brandon King

Kyle Mayers

Nicholas Pooran

Romario Shepherd

Odean Smith

T20 Internationals

Rovman Powell (Captain)

Kyle Mayers (Vice Captain)

Shamarh Brooks

Yannic Cariah

Johnson Charles

Sheldon Cottrell

Jason Holder

Akeal Hosein

Alzarri Joseph

Brandon King

Obed McCoy

Nicholas Pooran

Raymon Reifer

Romario Shepherd

Odean Smith

White-ball schedule in South Africa

Thursday, March 16: 1st

ODI at Buffalo Park, East London (day-night)

Saturday, March 18: 2nd

ODI at Buffalo Park, East London (day-night)

Tuesday, March 21: 3rd

ODI at JB Marks Oval, Potchefstroom

Saturday, March 25: 1st T20I at SuperSport Park, Centurion

Sunday, March 26: 2nd T20I at SuperSport Park, Centurion

Tuesday, March 28: 3rd

T20I at Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg (night)

MMG sponsors National Under-14 Rapid Chess Championships 2023

The Guyana Industrial Minerals Inc

(GINMIN) are the new sponsors on the block for the Milo Boys’ Under-18 schools’ football tournament, slated to kick off next weekend.

GINMIN joins Genequip, not only as secondary sponsors of the highly-anticipated schools’ football tournament, but the company will also share the responsibility of sponsoring playing kits for the tournament.

With 48 teams from Regions One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven and 10 slated to compete in this year’s expanded Milo tournament, those teams that reach the Round of 16 will be fully outfitted for the rest of the tournament.

At the simple announcement on Monday afternoon, hosted during the Petra Organisation’s customary team briefing exercise, CoDirector Troy Mendonca expressed his gratitude to

the new sponsor, as he detailed just how much value it brings.

Mendonca explained, “We are happy to work with you for this tournament, as a sponsor. Your contribution is vital towards us delivering the Boys’ Under-18 schools’ football tournament. The success of this tournament is dependent on the generosity of supporters like your company.”

Meanwhile, the company’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Elliott Lincoln expressed that supporting the tournament was a really easy decision for him, given his son’s love for the sport.

“When I heard about this tournament, this was a no-brainer. This was a really easy decision to make,” Lincoln related with a laugh.

The GINMIN CEO went on to add, “When we were approached to get involved in the tournament, I must say it was an honour for me as the CEO of GINMIN, hearing about the plans, hearing about the schools that will be involved from the length and breadth of the country.”

The ninth edition of the Milo schools’ Under-18 tournament is set to commence on Saturday, March 4, 2023.

Moving swiftly ahead with the youth tournament schedule, the Guyana Chess Federation is poised to host the National Under-14 Chess Championships.

This year’s edition of the one-day event is set for February 25, 2023 at Queen’s College from 09:00h and is being sponsored by MMG – Mobile Money Guyana.

Players will compete for seven rounds under a time control of 20 minutes per player, with 5 seconds added to the clock after each move in the Open or Girls’ tournaments.

Reigning Under-14 and Under-16 Open Chess Champion, 13-year-old Kyle Couchman returns to defend his title after a year of impressive feats across multiple tournaments and opponents of wide-ranging ages and skill levels.

Up-and-coming

star junior players, the Zhang brothers Alexander and Nicholas; Mahir Rajkumar; Arysh

Raghunauth; Jeremy Cole; Jacob McDonald; Arush

Ramnarine; Micaiah Enoe; Vivek Persaud; Mayas Khan; the Mohabir brothers, Julian and Landon and nine-year-old Aquilani Swaminadha, who is the current Under-12 Open Chess Champion, will all challenge him for the title.

A number of these players also performed well in the recently-concluded Under-12 tournament.

The Girls’ Tournament is set to be fiercely contested as well with strong young players such as 2022 Girls’ Under-12 Champion

Ciel Clement and Kataleya Sam, who won the Under-12 Girls’ Chess Championship recently. Atalya John, Amelia Griffith, Chelsea Harrison, and Skyler Gurchuran are among those competing on Saturday.

However, they will come up against 13-yearold Anaya Lall, who was the youngest player on the women’s team at the 2022 Biennial Chess Olympiad in Chennai, India. The Olympiad is notably the highest-level tournament Guyanese chess players compete in and includes a rigorous selection process where players show their prowess against the best players across the country.

West Indies will play three ODIs and three T20Is against South Africa

Kyle Couchman

Anya Lall

Petra’s Troy Mendonca; GINMIN’s CEO Elliott Lincoln, and Education Ministry’s Africo Selman are flanked by players who will compete in the schools’ U18 football tournament

GINMIN CEO Elliott Lincoln

The best of Guyana’s amateur boxing talent was on show at the National Gymnasium on Sunday night when the Patrick Forde Memorial

ing Roopesh Balgobin of Rose Hall Jammers (RHJ).

Shaquan Marshall of VBG took a little over one minute to get the best of RHJ’s Curtis McDonald in the following fight, while Mark Crawford

the young Guyanese boxer was moved to tears.

Her older sister, Abiola Jackman, also effected a TKO when she came up against Barbados’s Kamara Stuart. The elder Jackman took her

time throughout the threeround bout, wearing out her opponent as she went along. A decisive blow in the third round would eventually see off Stuart, who only needed to persevere 10 more seconds in order to see the fight through.

Allicock rallied the entirety of his three rounds against Trinidad’s Anthony Joseph, but when the final bell went, it was the Guyanese who won unanimously, as his quick footwork and frequent body shots got the job done.

Next up was the figurative ‘main event’ where Amsterdam, Guyana’s Sportsman of the Year 2021-2022, battled Nickelle Joseph, also of the twin-island republic.

Amsterdam’s powerful blows managed to fell Joseph on several occa-

sions before the referee stopped the encounter, awarding the Guyanese a TKO.

Other bouts of the night saw Guyana’s

ing Trinidad and Tobago’s Jaden Castillano and Barbados’s Ju Sean Shepherd overpowering Julius Kesney of Guyana, while an international fe-

Joel Williamson defeating Jeremiah Toussaint of Barbados , Guyana’s Brian Harris overcom-

male bout saw Leeann Boodram (TT) overpowering St Lucia’s Nikaela Khodra.

Tournament made its highly-anticipated return.

So much so that the Gymnasium saw hundreds of fans and supporters pouring in, unlike most amateur tournaments of the past.

When it was time for the bouts, the spectators erupted in cheers and dances, as the likes of Keevin “Lightning” Allicock, Desmond “Dynamite” Amsterdam, and the Jackman sisters entertained in the ring.

Earlier in the night, some of Guyana’s Under-16 boxing talent were on show. Those matches saw Glaston Winter of Vergenoegen Boxing Gym (VBG) defeat-

of Forgotten Youth Foundation (FYF) bested Clifton Graham of the Police Force’s Boxing Gym.

A bout between RHJ’s Jamal Eastman and FYF’s Patrick Harvey gave a taste of the entertainment

Hero CPL sees huge increase in viewership in 2022

to come, as the duo battled fiercely for the entirety of their three rounds. In the end, it was Eastman who prevailed.

Facing off with Trinidad and Tobago’s Shawnelle Hamid, all it took was 53 seconds for Alesha Jackman to effect a technical knockout of her opponent. After cornering Hamid, Jackman landed several punches on her opponent before the fight was stopped by the referee and

The 2022 Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) had a combined broadcast and digital viewership of 721.8 million. This is a new record for the tournament and the third year in a row where the total viewership has passed half a billion.

The 2022 viewership figure represents a 39 per cent increase on the 2021 audience as the Hero CPL’s broadcast and digital footprint continues to have a

massive global reach, with the tournament the second most-watched T20 league in the world.

2022 saw the return of fans to the “Biggest Party in Sport” with full stadiums adding to the carnival atmosphere that has become synonymous with the Hero CPL. There were matches in St Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana, with large crowds turning out in all four countries.

The Hero CPL continues to be at the apex of cricketing innovation, and 2022 saw the introduction of two new tournaments, the Massy Women’s Caribbean Premier League and the SKYEXCH 6IXTY, both of which further increased interest in cricket in the Caribbean.

Hero CPL’s CEO, Pete Russell said: “To have passed half a billion in viewership for the third year in a row, and to have taken a big

step towards reaching one billion is huge for Hero CPL.

“2022 saw us celebrate 10 years of this wonderful tournament and it was without question the best one yet. The rapidly-increasing viewership number is just another indication of where Hero CPL sits, and we are delighted that we have been able to celebrate the success of this league with fans, Governments and commercial partners across the Caribbean.”

Story and PhotoS by Jemima holmeS

The Hero CPL has seen a 39 per cent increase in viewership for 2022

Keevin Allicock was keen on landing body shots

Desmond Amsterdam caused his opponent to lose his footing on several occasions

A look at Abiola Jackman (blue) in action

Alesha Jackman cornered her opponent on her way to a TKO victory