Guyana Times - Tuesday, May 14, 2024

Govt announces loan write-off for students who stayed in Guyana, worked for 3 years

…some 13,000 students with $11B in loan debts to benefit

Finance Minister, Dr Ashni

Singh has announced the commencement of phase one of the student loan write-off as was outlined during the 2024 budget presentation and part of the party’s 2020 Manifesto.

On Monday in a live broadcast, Dr Singh said that the parameters of phase one Student Loan Write Off Programme include the writing off all loans owed by Guyanese who are able to demonstrate that they completed their course of study and graduated. This also includes, he said, that subsequent to graduation, the persons were employed or self-employed in Guyana for a minimum of three years, as evidenced by a minimum of 156 contributions made to the National Insurance Scheme.

“This is specifically intended to acknowledge as the first priority the contributions made by persons who utilised their education to contribute in one way or another, through employed or self-employed economic activities, towards the development of our country. This first phase, subject to the number of persons who provide the required evidence, could potentially benefit over 13,000 Guyanese who have $11 billion in student loan debt,” Dr Singh said.

He reminded that after 2015, the then APNU/AFC administration had proposed the introduction of travel bans, where students’ information would be put at all immigration points and desks es-

tablished to bar students with outstanding loans from travelling.

This, he said, rendered fear in scores of students across the country.

“This hostile approach by the APNU/AFC administration is yet another example of the callous and uncaring nature of the APNU/ AFC, and is in striking contrast to the people centred approach of the PPP/C,” the finance minister said.

He added that President Dr Irfaan Ali’s ‘One Guyana’ vision seeks to create a society where all Guyanese, irrespective of where they live, their ethnic or religious background, political affiliation, or gender or other orientation, have the opportunity to lead productive and happy lives. This initiative, he added, aims to achieve this by reducing inequality in access to education, health and other social services, employment and income, and security and justice.

According to Dr Singh, in keeping “with our One Guyana vision and in line with our party’s people centred approach to development, and our manifesto, Government remains committed to providing free tertiary education to Guyanese by 2025. In the coming days we will publish how persons can access this immediate phase 1 of the student loan write off programme in keeping with the announcement that I have just made on behalf of President Dr Irfaan Ali and the PPP/C Government.”

Earlier this year at one of his

weekly press conferences, Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo had said that with provisions to waiver outstanding student loans acquired within its current term in office and give free tertiary education, this feature is technically already effective.

As he addressed the manifesto promise of ensuring free university education, Jagdeo had explained that students who took

out loans and are yet to repay such within the timeframe of the Government’s term in office would be given a waiver. Retroactively, they will also benefit from free tertiary education as a result of this.

President Dr Irfaan Ali had already indicated that the Government’s plan to provide Guyanese with free University of Guyana (UG) education by 2025 would be rolled out in phases,

starting with students who have pre-existing loans.

He also spoke about the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) scholarship programme, which has seen the Government partnering with educational institutions around the world to offer courses that will meet the challenges and demands of various sectors in Guyana, including the oil and gas, engineering and construction, and information security sectors. According to the Vice President, the anticipated influx of higher qualified persons into the workforce will create conditions in the public and private sector that have to be addressed.

The Government has already distributed over 20,000 online scholarships through GOAL. The 20,000 online scholarships programme is also the fulfilment of a pledge made to provide opportunities for educational development nationwide. Within the first year of its launch, over 8000 citizens applied for the free online programme.

While the Government had originally intended to make 20,000 of the online scholarships available, this target has since been revised owing to the overwhelming interest shown by citizens.

GOAL is set to offer 187 programmes that can be accessed from 15 reputable academic institutions across the world, including in India, Africa, the United Kingdom, and Germany.

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Tuesday, May 14 – 23:00h-00:30h and Wednesday, May 15 – no retraction.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Tuesday, May 14 –08:05h-09:35h and Wednesday, May 15 – 09:20h-10:50h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery

and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.92 metres.

High Tide: 08:36h and 21:28h reaching maximum heights of 2.19 metres and 2.04 metres.

Low Tide: 14:51h reaching a minimum height of 1.04 metre.

5 killed in 2-vehicle head-on crash on LindenSoesdyke Highway

Two teachers were among five persons who died early Monday morning in a two-vehicle collision at Long Creek, LindenSoesdyke Highway.

Dead are Dwaylon Farrell, the Head of the Industrial Technology Department at the New Silver City Secondary School, and Rushell Leacock, a senior mistress attached to the Kwakwani Primary School.

Also, dead are Rayhum Leacock and pensioner Uramie Hall, both of Kwakwani, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) Pastor Clinton Patterson later succumbed to his injuries while receiving medical attention at the Linden Hospital Complex making him the fifth person to have died in the horrific smash-up.

Traffic Chief, Mahendra Singh told the press that the accident occurred at about 8:20h and involved two vehicles that were going in opposite directions. While he could not say what caused the accident and who was responsible, he noted that the drivers of both vehicles were killed.

“What we know so far, is that five persons have lost

ble as we would wish, right now.”

Further, he reprimanded drivers for their reckless usage of the roadways, noting that the accident could have been avoided.

“It is an unfortunate loss and I think it is one that could have been prevented had drivers been responsible enough to recognise that it is not all about speed and to get people quickly where they want to go… they must recognise that they have a role to play to keep the passengers alive.”

Nevertheless, while sympathising with the aggrieved families who lost their loved ones, he urged other road us-

their lives and about four others are seeking medical attention as in they are currently hospitalised but their conditions are not as sta-

ers to take heed of what is happening on the roadway as a result of recklessness. As such, he called on them to be more responsible and contribute to safer roads across

the country. Meanwhile, in a release issued by the Education Department, Region 10,

them to pursue their passions. Leacock was renowned for her unwavering commit-

it was stated that Farrell was more than an educator – he was a mentor, guiding countless students through the intricacies of industrial technology and inspiring

ment to the holistic development of her pupils. Her infectious enthusiasm and nurturing spirit enriched the lives of all who crossed her path.

Dead: Rayhum Leacock

The two vehicles that were involved in the horrific accident

Dead: Rushell Leacock

Dead: Uramie Hall

Dead: Dwaylon Farrell Dead: Clinton Patterson

Editor: Tusika Martin

News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761

Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707

Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Industrial Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown

Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

Productive adults

It’s a fact that youths today make up the larger part of the population of almost every country in the world. This presents certain challenges for policy-makers to develop, implement and maintain programmes and activities which must be economically and socially oriented to satisfy their (youths’) desires.

Generally, it is well known that the absence of wellthought-out programmes with respect to youth development impacts negatively on our young people, and sometimes even lead to them resigning themselves to lawlessness and other anti-social behaviours that are damaging to society.

In Guyana, an interesting project – Youth Resilience Inclusion and Empowerment (Y-RIE) – was launched on Tuesday. The aim of the United States Government project is to guide youths into productive adults - away from crime and violence. It targets at-risk youths between ages 10 and 29. Based on the local media reports, Y-RIE’s aims to help systems-strengthening activity based on a public-health approach to violence prevention and incorporates positive youth development approaches.

Former Caricom Secretary General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, some time ago, had said the majority of victims as well as perpetrators of crimes reported by the Police are young males 18 to 35 years old. He pointed to the fact that there are a number of socio-economic determinants of crime, the least of which is the high youth unemployment in the Region. This is surely reason to be concerned, as right away one would begin to worry about the kind of future these persons would have, and the contributions they would make to their societies, if any at all. Certainly, this is enough reason to cause Governments and policy-makers to take a closer look at what is happening in their individual countries, and take steps to remedy the situation.

Certainly, there is a great need for intervention in order to combat the current challenges facing young people. In order to prepare young people for workplace success, job training programmes need to go beyond technical instruction and also teach “life skills” such as communication, reliability, and teamwork. This push to teach youths life skills has been validated by employers who have consistently reported that, above all, they want to hire employees who possess workplace-ready skills, such as communication, teamwork, motivation and responsibility. Technical skills, they say, can be learnt on the job.

In addition to teaching youths the life skills employers look for, there is need to introduce complementary life planning activities in this component. These activities help youths in assessing who they are, their aspirations for the future, and define realistic steps towards achieving these goals.

Guyana has a number of programmes geared towards equipping young people with various skills for the world of work, etc. This is commendable, but more focus needs to be placed on combining teaching life skills with the various academic or technical subjects. Meaning, these programmes should include assessment and identification of ways to build competency and skills supportive of healthy behaviours, to help young people as they mature into adulthood.

Additionally, institutions such as the family and religious bodies need to take up their roles more seriously, as happened before. Historically, the older generation had managed to transmit their beliefs, values, traditions, customs, and institutions to the younger members of their societies. This was achieved largely because of the impact of agencies of socialisation, such as the family, religion and the schools. Today, the impact of these institutions has been challenged and undermined by new forces, particularly television and the Internet, and pop culture as a whole.

It is well accepted that progressive countries in the world have strong systems for engaging youths in policy formation and in creating or altering programmes designed to support youths. We believe that if our young people are to make more mature and responsible judgments and engage in activities that are the hallmark of a socially-productive adulthood, certain support systems for development must be present in the environment. Teaching life skills is a good way to start.

Children and their pets: in the photo on the left, two-year-old

North

Region Nine

happily

off

pet

The photo that was entered into the Flora and Fauna

of the Tourism Ministry’s 58th Anniversary of Independence Photography Competition was taken by

According to the entry description, the brown capuchin monkey was found in a farming area in

officer Ufer Nash during a field trip. Meanwhile, the photo on the right, taken by photographer Kevon Lorrimer

(Upper Demerara-Berbice), is described as a “combination of loving souls experiencing the love of nature whilst sharing each other's habitats”. It was entered in the active exploration/adventure (hiking, travel) category of the competition

Jagdeo commended for removing outdated Marxism-Leninism from PPP constitution

Dear Editor,

The General Secretary (leader) of the PPP, Bharrat Jagdeo, wisely has led the charge to delete MarxismLeninism from the Party’s constitution. It is a sensible act; That ‘ism’ has no relevance to Guyana. It should never have found its way in Guyana; it is the primary reason why democracy collapsed in Guyana and the country suffered for four decades from foreign interference leading to the rise of the authoritarian state. Guyana’s ideology must be liberalism and pro-Western. We need absolute democracy, openness, pragmatism and integrity in public life.

Removing the Marxist worn-out ideology from the PPP constitution is a very good move that will be welcomed in Washington, DC and other Western capitals. Marxism-Leninism is a useless tenet or position in the ruling party’s constitution although admittedly it has been harmless as no one in Guyana ever attempted to implement hardcore Marxism or Leninism since the passing of Forbes Burnham nearly four decades ago.

During the anti-colonial and anti-imperialist

struggle, it was fashionable for young revolutionaries to embrace left-wing (socialist) ideology. Also, all over American campuses and around the globe, students at universities gravitated towards left-wing ideology. When I first arrived in USA in 1977 to study at City University, its 22 campuses were hot beds for radicalism – anti-imperialism movements. One could not help to become romanticize with the struggle against neo-colonialism and anti-imperialism. But once one understood the dominance of the West and geopolitics of the Caribbean and American region, one quickly realised that Marxism-Leninism had/has no place in the region and that Washington would not allow its successful advocacy. That is why the Guyanese and IndoCaribbean groups I co-founded in 1977 to champion free and fair elections in Guyana, as advised by my senior, political scientist Rennie Ramracha, advocated a pro-Western democratic ideology. We knew that the USA and Western nations would not support our struggle for restoration of democracy if it meant the election of a leftwing, Marxist-Leninist par-

ty in Guyana. We urged our friends in the leftwing ACG, support group of PPP, to take a pro-Western, pro-capitalist position in its championing of free and fair elections and democratic governance in Guyana. We also urged Dr Jagan whenever we engaged that it would be helpful to the struggle for free and fair elections in Guyana if he were to soften his MarxistLeninist ideology and anti-American position. But we were not successful. We were laughed and scoffed at and labelled as bourgeois agents of imperialist powers. It was ‘imperialist’ powers that foisted democracy in Guyana in 1992 and saved democracy in 2020. Democracy was not restored to Guyana until after the collapse of communism in Europe, allowing for the election of Dr Jagan as President. Several anti-Marxists, myself included, led that pioneering struggle from USA. By 1992, Dr Jagan had changed and had embraced pro-Western economic liberal ideology. Although he supported economic liberalism, he would have opposed the removal of Marxism-Leninism from the constitution of the party he founded.

But Bharrat Jagdeo is

right. Marxism-Leninism does not belong in the PPP constitution. We live in a different era (from the 1950s thru 1980s) now from that of Dr Jagan and spouse Janet. Countries have moved away from Marxism. Every country that once embraced Marxism-Leninism or socialism has moved towards a market economy; thirdworld countries once under radical leadership are restructuring and privatising (de-nationalising) State industries. Guyana long ago sold several national assets and/or put industries under private management.

Also, although it’s in the Party’s constitution, the PPP has not functioned like a Marxist-Leninist party, not in Government anyway. Since it returned to Government in October 1992, the PPP has functioned according to the tenets of liberalism.

It was a sensible move by Bharrat Jagdeo to remove Marxism-Leninism from a bygone era from the PPP constitution. The action will be far reaching, and the VP should be commended for this act.

Yours faithfully, Dr Vishnu Bisram

Henrique Nash

shows

his

“Wrinkles”, a brown capuchin, at Annai,

Rupununi,

(Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

Category

photographer Melissa Nash.

Yakarinta (Maripata) by crop extension

in Linden, Region 10

On the Plantations: Women

By Ravi Dev

The official report mentioned in the previous article on immigrant housing raised another sore issue about indentured life on the plantations, which was a theme throughout indentureship and in all the “indentured countries” – “morality”.

“Some of the ranges, in our opinion, are hardly fit for habitation, resembling more a “pigsty" in the vivid phrase of a labourer, than a dwelling fit for men; while, as regards married couples, they are absolutely unsuitable. No privacy is possible, when words whispered on one side of the partition may be overheard on the other. In these circumstances, it is not at all surprising to find all decency of a family life destroyed. The "'Coolie" lines are as much responsible for the immorality among the immigrants as any other cause.”

What exactly was this “immorality” they were talking about? Not surprisingly it was about women, who are usually appointed guardians of morality in most societies. From the beginning of indentureship (with Gladstone) to its end, obtaining an equal number of women and men to be indentured was a challenge never met. And this even though the recruiters in India were paid more for women than men. Women were, therefore, pursued starting in the Depots in India as well as the Depot in Guyana. When immigrant ships arrived, there were always men from the plantations who would show up looking for wives.

Most of the indentured women came by themselves and had been married before, with many bringing children with them. This was the case, for instance with Dr Jagan’s grandmothers on both sides. It is speculated that in an era of child-brides, the young husbands might have died and the women – girls often – were escaping tyrannical in-laws. Sadly, the authorities often dubbed them “prostitutes”.

But on the plantations, the women would now be earning their own wages, albeit half of the paltry shilling earned by men; had their own sleeping quarters and were in demand. Unfortunately, also by the overseers as had been the case with the sailors on the ships. They became, however, much more independent than in village India, where patriarchal norms were much more entrenched than even Victorian Br Guiana.

As a result, both the male Indian Indentureds and the colonial authorities – including churchmen – adjudged the plantation women as” immoral” because they would not put up with domineering men and would move on with other relationships. This relative independence was resented and in Guyana, there developed the phenomenon of “Coolie wife murderers”. In one sample period between 1886 and 1890, 25 women were killed by their husbands or partners while 6 women were killed by random men and 6 men were killed by other men. No man was killed by a woman.

The female Indian indentured exemplified the saying “women’s work is never done”. Even though they had to proceed to the fields at the same time as the men, wives still had to prepare breakfast as lunch, and after returning in the evening, dinner. They would have picked up their children from the creche where they were dropped off in the morning.

Nagamootoo’s commemoration starkly contrasts with grim reality faced during APNU/AFC's tenure

Dear Editor, Moses Nagamootoo’s enthusiastic commemoration of May 11, 2015, as a day of triumph starkly contrasts with the grim reality faced by the Guyanese population during the APNU/AFC coalition's tenure who, up to 2020, was still waiting on the promise of a ‘good life’.

Glorifying the APNU/ AFC period as an “inclusive, national unity governance” as Nagamootoo did is not only disingenuous but also an affront to the countless Guyanese who suffered under the repressive policies of the former regime.

The APNU/AFC, far from enhancing the lives of citizens, plunged the nation into an economic morass marked by stagnant growth and spiralling cost of living, all compounded by the heartless imposition of over 200 new taxes and fees that strangled the ability of ordinary Guyanaese

to thrive.

They robbed schoolchildren of the Because We Care cash grant; fired hundreds of Amerindians serving as Community Service Officers (CSOs) in hinterland communities; shuttered much of the sugar industry, sending 6000 workers home all while signing the single worst oil deal in the world.

While lives of Guyanese were being plunged into turmoil, the audacity with which the coalition increased their own salaries by an outrageous 50 per cent shortly after taking office is a blatant testament to their priorities—self-enrichment for themselves, cronies and associates over national welfare.

This act alone speaks volumes of their disconnect and disregard for the struggles of those they were elected to serve. Such greed and self-serving gover-

nance catalysed widespread disenchantment and disapproval among the populace, further eroding any trust in their leadership.

Even more egregious was their handling of the 2020 elections defeat and the preceding events. The coalition’s efforts to undermine the electoral process through deliberate and systematic attempts to rig the vote were not only undemocratic but an outright criminal manoeuvre to hijack the country’s future, holding it hostage to their despotic whims.

Nagamootoo’s claim of fighting against the “isms” of corruption – cronyism and nepotism – is ironically a mirror reflection of the coalition’s own practices.

Under their governance, these very elements were magnified, fostering an environment where transparency was obscured and accountability was all but

absent. The real fighters in this narrative are the citizens of Guyana, particularly the youth, who stood up against this tyranny and championed the cause of genuine democracy and governance.

To recast May 11, 2015 as a day of remembrance is to rub salt into the wounds of all those who have endured and continue to reel from the catastrophic impacts of the APNU/AFC rule. It is imperative to remember this day not as one of celebration but as a solemn reminder of the perils of corrupt, self-serving governance and the enduring spirit of the Guyanese people who have found in the PPP a truly democratic and equitable Government.

Sincerely, Kwame McCoy Minister with the Office of the Prime Minister

Agriculture must never fail again

Dear Editor, Gone are the days when agriculture in Guyana struggled. Under the PNC, struggling was a word often heard and echoed amongst our people. I bring attention to the APNU/AFC's 2015 manifesto, I would like to say it is timely considering the Opposition is hot on the path of making empty promises and creating mischief to discredit the work of PPP/C, all for the 2025 General Elections.

Make no mistake, they will try their utmost, but I want the people to remember that promises were made in their manifesto in 2015, many of which packed substance. It is tragic that they dedicated an entire section to sugar and how they planned to develop it once they were in Government, but quickly resorted to shutting the estates down and sending thousands into unemployment

and poverty.

One of their "action plans" was to "enhance the quality of sugar workers within their communities through better facilities, sports and social amenities", I kid you not, that was an actual proposed plan. Can the sugar workers highlight if such was done for them under the APNU/ AFC Administration? I do hope that when these workers choose to protest/strike, they also remember that they were fired under the previous Government, they hadn't a job, they could not earn, they could not support their families, their children were forced to stay home from school, because they could not afford to send them, they could not afford to eat three square meals a day, it was a struggle. I am not saying persons do not have a right to go out there and demand better when it comes to their

livelihood, but we must never forget the atrocities of the APNU/AFC Government that forced thousands of Guyanese into 'punishment'. It is timely to remind the public of the nonsense that was done under their failed regime.

I can and will never forget because I saw the tears,

I heard the painful stories of families struggling to survive and that alone is enough for me to make a decision of never lending support to APNU/ AFC. Agriculture suffered tremendously, but we are now making strides.

Sincerely, Nigel King

Indian Indentured women

Page Foundation

CSEC MATHS

1. How much does a customer pay for an article marked at $50.00 if a sales tax of 6% is charged?

(A) $44.00

(B) $47.00

(C) $53.00

(D) $56.00

2. A salesman sells a car for $11 000. If he is paid a commission of 4.5% for the first $10 000 and 7.5% on the remainder, then the commission he receives is

(A) $ 495

(B) $ 525

(C) $ 825

(D) $1 320

3. X = cost of a pen and y = the cost of a box of pens

The total cost of 3 pens and 2 boxes is

(A) 5xy

(B) 5(x + y)

(C) 2x + 3y

(D) 3x + 2y

4. Given 2x + 3 + 9, the range of values of x is

(A) x > 3 (B) x > 3 (C) x > 6 (D) x > 6

5. Althea saves $x each month; but in June she saved $4 more than twice her usual amount. In June Althea saved (A) $4x (B) $6x (C) $(x + 4) (D) $(2x + 4)

6. 5( x + y) – 3 (x – y) = (A) 2x (B) 2x + 2 y (C) 2x + 8 y (D) 8x + 8y

7. If x is an integer which satisfies the inequalities 4 < x – 2 < 8 then the SMALLEST possible value of x is (A) 7 (B) 6 (C) 5

Select the word that is opposite in meaning to the word indicated

1. Inopportune (A) Ill-timed (B) Unfortunate (C) Apt (D) Mis-timed

2. Rewarding (A) Fruitless (B) Worthwhile (C) Gratifying (D) Satisfying

3. Thoughtful (A) Kind (B) Caring (C) Selfish

(D) Helpful

4. Satisfying (A) Filling (B) Insubstantial (C) Nourishing (D) Sufficient

5. Destructive (A) Damaging (B) Negative (C) Critical (D) Constructive

6. Effective (A) Ineffective (B) Efficient (C) Successful (D) Productive

7. Unkind (A) Amiable (B) Hostile (C) Harsh (D) Mean

8. Hectic (A) Frenzied (B) Calm (C) Angry (D) Frantic

(D) 4

8. Think of a number. Subtract 8 from it. Multiply the difference by 3. The result is 21. What is the original number (A) 1 (B) 3 (C) 10 (D) 15

9. A bag contains 60 marbles of different colours. The probability of choosing a red marble is 5/12. How many red marbles does the bag contain? (A) 25 (B) 17 (C) 12 (D) 5

10. Which of the following points lies on the line y = 2x – 3 ? (A) (2,3) (B) (– 2, –1) (C) (4,1) (D) (0, –3)

Choose the words that best complete the sentence

WORD SEARCH:

Int’l community will respond strongly if Venezuela uses force against Guyana – fmr Colombian President

…says

Latin America would also respond to threat to regional peace

Amid Venezuela’s continued provocative actions in relation to its border with Guyana, former Colombian President Iván Duque is of the view that the international community will not allow Venezuela to act on its illegal and baseless ambitions for Guyana’s territory, but rather will respond strongly to any use of force against Guyana.

During a recent interview with Newsweek, Duque spoke about the trouble Venezuela is causing in the region on multiple fronts. One such front is the border Venezuela shares with Guyana, where the Spanish speaking country has threatened to take away Guyana’s sovereign territory of Essequibo.

Making reference to the current Russian invasion of Ukraine, Duque was adamant that the international community would not stand by and allow this to happen. This, he noted, is a fact that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro must be aware of.

“Maduro knows that the international community is not going to let him play the Putin card in Ukraine, here in the western hemisphere. And there’s going to be a very strong response if he tries to use force against Guyana,” the former Head of State said.

“Not only maybe the United States and Canada, but there’s also going to be a response from Latin American countries, according to the treaty of reciprocal attention. So, he better not play with that. Because he knows that if he tries to play that card, he’s going to

see a very strong response.”

Expressing his opinion on Maduro’s motives, Duque was of the view that the President was using the occasion to drum up nationalistic support, ahead of general elections in Venezuela where the main opposition candidate has already been controversially barred from contesting.

“I think Maduro is desperate to remain in power. And he’s trying to use Guyana as a scape goat for using the nationalistic speech. Essequibo has been in the hands and sovereignty of Guyana for more than 100 years. It represents almost 70 per cent of the territory of Guyana. And Maduro has tried to threaten Guyana that he’s going to take away that territory. He actually passed a bill stating that, that territory is part of Venezuela. And that is something that is simply insane.”

“So, Guyana is requesting that the process before the ICJ keeps on going. They have made not only a legitimate defense of

their sovereignty and their interest. But I also believe that Guyana will prevail. Because I think the judicial arguments that Guyana has presented before the ICJ, are (sound),” Duque said.

Venezuela has been widely condemned for recently promulgating a “Law for the defense of Essequibo” in its National Assembly, which would infringe on Guyana’s sovereignty if acted upon.

The controversy surrounding the territory was settled through an Arbitral Award in 1899, which both countries agreed to and accepted. However, when Guyana was on the verge of gaining its independence from Great Britain in the early 1960s, Venezuela’s claims to two-thirds of its territory resurged.

The controversial law was promulgated at the instigation of President Maduro last week, in his bid to establish Guyana’s sovereign Essequibo region as a state within his country. In addition to the OAS and Caricom, the Commonwealth Secretariat has also expressed concern over the recent actions of the Venezuelan regime.

The matter was eventually taken to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), where it currently awaits a ruling. However, Venezuela in December 2023 moved a referendum to annex twothirds of Guyana’s sovereign territory. The ICJ at the time had issued interim measures restraining Venezuela from taking further steps in this regard. (G3)

US wants deeper relationship with Guyana in security – Ambassador …as MoU signed between NYPD and GPF

With the launching of a partnership between the New York Police Department (NYPD) and the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the United States has made it clear its desire for a stronger partnership with Guyana under the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative.

On Monday, a high-level delegation from the NYPD, led by first Deputy Commissioner Tania Kinsella met with President Dr Irfaan Ali. During that meeting President Ali was pleased that the two agencies were working together to develop policing strategies that will better serve the citizenry of Guyana.

Following the signing of the historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for 'Capacity Building’ in the Commissioner of Police's Conference Room at Police Headquarters, US Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot noted that the partnership will align with the Guyana Police Force’s 2022 to 2026 strategic management plan. According to her, Kinsella will be meeting with oth-

er key officials to ensure the implementation of the training programme.

“We’re so proud to have the number two in the largest police department in the world, sitting right here in this conference room. I’m honored to welcome this high-level delegation, led by first Deputy Commissioner Kinsella. This ceremony commemorates the start of a new training partnership with the Guyana Police Force, in support with the GPF’s 2022 to 2026 strategic management plan.”

“This week, first Deputy Commissioner Kinsela and the delegation will meet with key government and civil society stakeholders, including President Ali, the Mayor of Georgetown, several Ministers, and of course civil society, to ensure that this training programme is holistic, tailored and strategic. And that it has the government and people of Guyana’s overwhelming support.”

According to Theriot, they will be working with the NYPD and the GDF to develop curriculum. She explained that this curricu-

lum would focus on law enforcement best practices, including community policing, homicide and gender-based violence investigations.

“The US Embassy and the US Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, are proud to support this new partnership, through funding, to ensure a successful programme.”

“I am pleased to announce that the NYPD will return to Guyana in a few short months to start the programme. And we will send a cadre of GPF officers to New York, later this year, for a practical study tour at the NYPD’s training facility.”

Meanwhile, Home Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn lauded the initiative, while noting its potential to revamp policing in Guyana. According to the minister, the information gathering and systems that are in place are still trailing behind the level at which is needed to deal with these challenges.

Former Colombian President Iván Duque

Top security officials from Guyana and the NYPD, along with US Ambassador Nicole Theriot, following the signing

Fight between couple leads to house being set on fire – Police

The woman, who police said, allegedly deliberately set fire to a West Berbice, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) building resulting in it burning, did so in retaliation after an argument with her husband during which he ordered her to pack up and leave.

Police referred to the woman as being mentally challenged.

Seven persons were rendered homeless as a result of the fire which destroyed three apartments.

According to the police, the two-storey wooden and concrete property was owned by Jean Harte and was occupied by her and her daughter-in-law, who is allegedly mentally ill.

Police said on Saturday at about 11:00h, the daughter-in-law informed Harte that she had lit a mattress in one of the bedrooms on the lower floor of the house.

In a panic, the woman rushed to the lower flat where she observed smoke

and immediately started to disconnect the gas cylinders. After doing so, they both ran out of the house and within minutes the fire had engulfed the bedroom and other sections of the house.

The woman’s daughter said seven persons occupied the three apartments that were destroyed by the blaze.

Harte and her husband occupied the upper flat while her son, his wife and their 8-month-old baby occupied the lower flat. The fire also destroyed an adjoining apartment occupied by two of Harte’s sons.

Rosy Hero, who is the eldest of the siblings and no longer lives at the Kingsley address said that based on what was related to her was that there was a misunderstanding between her brother and his wife over a cellular phone conversation.

“He turn to her and told her to pack up her things and leave and go home. Which in she is living till

in Essequibo but she don’t have any parents or any family. When he told her to pack up her things and go home, he was upset with her. She packed up her bag and he left the house and went out. She told us that after he left, she went back inside and took a piece of paper and lit it and took it to the bed and put it on the mattress. After the fire start to burn, she came out side and told my mother that the house is one fire,” the woman claimed.

The woman reportedly went into the apartment but had to flee as the bedroom was completely engulfed.

The youngest of Harte’s siblings was in the apartment he shared with another brother when he learned that the building was on fire.

“The first thing I did was to go upstairs and take out the two gas bottles and then come downstairs and reverse the car out of the yard,” Cleshawn Harte said.

According to the young man he used a hose with water from the tap to dose the blaze but his efforts were in vain and he soon had to abandon the idea.

Meanwhile, his sister related that by the time the fire service arrived, the fire had taken over the entire building and was also burning trees in the yard.

Hero said damages are estimated at $10M as all three apartments were fully furnished and nothing from the three apartments was saved. A motorbike was also destroyed in the fire.

The family is reaching out to the public for assistance nothing that while they would want to rebuild, they have immediate needs since the fire has destroyed everything they owned.

The family can be contacted by telephone number 601-2357 by persons who are desirous of helping them. (G4)

US wants deeper relationship with...

“This new partnership with the NYPD will be significant and will leapfrog us to certain stages in terms of where we need to get to deal with multi-faceted issues of crime fighting," Benn stated.

"The issues that we experience are issues at higher levels which are experienced in other countries. Particularly with the NYPD, with crime-fighting challenges and their successes in New York, (the partnership) would be advantageous for us to learn from their experiences," he added.

NYPD First Deputy Commissioner Tania

Under the MOU, the NYPD delegation will meet with key government and civil society stakeholders to develop a comprehensive frame -

work for co-operation, focusing on key areas of capacity building which will ensure the training programme is holistic, tailored, and strategic.

This agreement, which will aid the implementation of the Force's Strategic Management Plan 2022-2026, signifies the New York City Police Department and the Guyana Police Force's shared commitment to bolstering and improving the effectiveness and professionalism of policing efforts throughout Guyana.

To ensure its success, the initiative will be sup -

ported by the US Embassy and the US Department of State's Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).

Among the other high-ranking officials from both organisations who witnessed the historic signing were National Security Advisor Capt. Gerry Gouveia; Deputy Commissioner 'Administration' Calvin Brutus; Deputy Commissioner 'Operations' Ravindradat Budhram, along with senior members of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT). (G3)

Going… …slumming

One thing that sticks out like a sore thumb – and as you know, Dear Reader, these are PAINFUL!! –is the Opposition constant bitching and moaning about poverty – even as they’re decked out in finery befitting a fundraising party at the Met!! Did you see Kim Kardashian there a few days ago?? Now plunk that look in Linden or Albouystown and imagine the insensitivity!! Listen, don’t get your Eyewitness wrong. Not because someone’s in politics, they gotta dress in sackcloth and ashes!! But still, they gotta have a sense of proportion – the messenger can’t be so disconnected from the message. It deguts the premises of that message. Kinda signals that a whole lotta hypocrisy is in play!! We see the same types in the NGOs for the poor.

From, the US, we learn about the phenomena of “poverty pimps”. In the words of Thomas Sowell, the black Harvard Sociologist, “There are whole classes of people who live off the poor, or rather, off the vast sums of money that are poured out from the public treasury and private philanthropy, in hopes of helping the poor”. Haven’t our Opposition MPs been collecting their huge salaries – plus duty-free vehicles and other perks? “Those who intercept the money intended for the poor have been aptly called “Poverty Pimps. The poor are a commodity to these people, who include not only local politicians, community activists and small-time hustlers, but also people with impressive titles and academic credentials, who likewise milk the larger society, in the name of the poor”.

Sowell’s satirical poem, “Poverty Pimps”, describes them well – read it like rap: “Let us celebrate the poor, let us hawk them door to door. There’s a market for their pain, votes and glory and money to gain. Let us celebrate the poor. Their ills, their sins, their faulty diction. Flavour our songs and spice our fiction. Their hopes and struggles and agonies, get us grants and consulting fees. Celebrate thugs and clowns, give their ignorance all renown. Celebrate what holds them down, in our academic gowns. Let us celebrate the poor”!!

One critic of “Poverty Pimps”, offered some clues on “how to know a poverty pimp”, so you’ll easily recognise the local practitioners: 1) they start supposedly “not for-profit” ventures but the profits remain in their pockets; 2) they getting funding but spend on themselves and “coaches” rather than on the poor; 3) they’ve become really, really, really good at using race, class and gender discussions to subvert any criticism of what they’re doing; 4) their offices are furnished much better than anything their clients will ever own in their entire lifetime; 5) when travelling money goes for fourstar hotels!!

Or when MPs take their salaries and don’t attend sittings!!

…political

Your Eyewitness has a lotta sympathy for teachers – having been one of their ranks when it was the only game in town for a fella with a handful of GCEs - and a collapsed economy under Fat Boy Forbes!! But c’mon now, why they gotta dig their heels in that the Government revisit the raises they got since 2019. Sure that’d be nice, but think about the precedent it’ll set in industrial relations!!

Your Eyewitness believes that the union leadership have become giddy with the Court’s ruling that’s in their favour – and then some. But the Government have already signalled they’ll appeal the outrageous order that they must pay workers – when they’re out on strike and not in front of the kids. They must know this will be overruled – and then what?? The Government has asked for the Chief Labour Officer to conciliate in the impasse – so now what?? They want to be on the wrong side of the law??

Your Eyewitness hopes good sense – and not politics – will prevail.

…low

So, Prezzie decides to share a birthday cake with the soldiers by feeding them a piece – as is customary on birthdays. And is now told he’s disrespecting our boys and girls in olive?? Ow, man!! What next?

Kinsella

The aftermath of the fire

New inter-Caribbean ferry service to be implemented in 3rd quarter of 2024 …as partnership with Dubai company to see multiple cargo ships in region

The private sector-led interconnecting Caribbean Community (Caricom) ferry service Connect Caribe will be on stream by the third quarter of 2024, promising not only passenger movement but the shipment of cargo.

Connect Caribe is focused extensively on working towards a solution to the problems of maritime transportation, particularly the movement of goods and people in the southern Caribbean (in the first instance).

This first phase of the estimated US$50 million project was expected to come on stream during the last quarter of 2024 and later be expanded to new island routes in the Caribbean Sea.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Caribbean Israel Finance (CIF) and United Nations Peace Ambassador, Dr Andre Thomas an-

tive, bringing it from concept to reality.

CPSO assistance ca-

go ships that will enable us to serve the region so that you have cargo going both

by 25 percent by 2025.

“They have from the beginning focused on devel-

tered for the tactical and logistical aspect of the project while Jampur Group death with the acquisition

nounced during a press conference on Monday that significant progress has been made since the company disclosed details of the project in January, 2024.

According to the CEO, the early shift in the programme’s implementation is a result of partnerships with the Caricom Private Sector Organisation (CPSO) and Jampur Group, who have played a significant role in accelerating the maritime corridor initia-

of ships/vessels, which are being procured and shipped to the Caribbean.

“In the first stage of acquisition, we are acquiring more ships because our intention was to have two cruise ships and one large cargo ship, that has changed. With our partnership with Jampur Group we are going to have a lot more cargo ships, about five to seven. And so, we are looking to have significant acquisition of multiple car-

ways,” Dr Thomas said.

Jampur Group is a shipping company in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Connect Caribe ferry service is completely separate from the ongoing work by the governments of Guyana, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) to commence a new ferry service among the three Caribbean states, however, it will complement the proposed project.

If all goes according to plans, the vessels under Connect Caribe will be dedicated to weekly and daily round trips, connecting to Barbados, St Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, St. Vincent, Grenada, Dominica, Antigua, Suriname, and Guyana.

The vessels will have the capacity to transport about 800 to 1,000 passengers, cargo and manufactured goods and produce.

During the press conference, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Technical Director of the Caricom Private Sector Organisation, Dr Patrick Antonie explained that the services Connect Caribe will provide effort to fulfill the mandate of reducing Caricom’s Food Import bill

oping a successful business development proposal and certainly we’re starting to see developments that will plug in to what has been a felt need in the community in relation to the movement of goods and in all instance, we have focused on agricultural goods,” Dr Patrick Antonie explained.

Recently President Dr Irfaan Ali announced that a new company will solve the intra-regional transportation woes. Thomas said similarly, Connect Caribe is the private sector response to these challenges which involves several companies including Ramps Logistics,

creation is factored into the response to the region’s shipment issues and according to Thomas and his team, there will be room for employment at warehouses and on the vessels. The first phase alone will see some 270 persons being employed. Further, the company not only responds to the need for quick trips by sea across the Caribbean but also provides a realistic pathway for businesses to get their products across the region. (G1)

J&S Cruises and Tours and UPTURN FUNDS New York. Job

Private Sector Organisation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Technical Director, Dr Patrick Antonie

Israel Finance (CIF) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and United Nations Peace Ambassador, Dr Andre Thomas

Construction worker dies crashing motorcycle into donkey

Amotorcyclist is now dead after he crashed his bike into a donkey said to have tried to run across the road.

Dead is heavy-duty machine operator, Kumar Atmaram of Gangaram Settlement, East Canje, Berbice.

The 23-year-old lost his life on Sunday evening after the motorcycle he was riding at the time reportedly crashed into an animal.

This has resulted in relatives expressing concern over the large number of animals on that section of the country’s road network.

According to the police, Atmaram was riding motorcycle, CK 1572 along the Betsy Ground Public Road at a fast rate, when he lost control crashed into the donkey and fell onto the road surface, where he received injuries.

He was then picked up in an unconscious condition and taken to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

firmation that it was indeed his son.

“He was dead already,” the senior Atmaram said.

“They told me that the donkeys were behind the truck and while they were fighting, he was riding com-

ing. All of a sudden the donkey run out from behind the truck on the road and he crash into it. No brakes mark. He didn’t have a chance to hold brakes and

spot and its body was subsequently removed by the NDC.

Atmaram has expressed concern over the large number of animals roaming the upper sections of the East Canje main access road noting that stray donkeys are being captured from a section of the Corentyne where they have become a worrying concern to vehicles operating in the rice industry. The captured animals are being released in the Upper East Canje area.

“At one time they had stray catchers to get the animals off the road and then the people who own the animals start to talk up because they feel that it is the right thing that they doing having their animals on the road).”

He pointed out that many of the accidents which occur in East Canje and along the East Berbice Highway are as a result of animals on the roadway.

“Nobody doing anything; even to the government not doing anything,” he added.

His father told Guyana Times that his son was at the time returning home from a shop two villages away when he crashed.

He said that when he arrived on the scene the police were already there and a crowd had gathered.

According to Narinedatt Atmaram, he saw a sheet covering a body on the road and he raised it up for con-

he pitched off from the bike and brake his neck,” he said he was told.

At the time Atmaram was wearing a safety helmet, which his father referred to as being a cheap one.

“The helmet break up. It is a thin helmet and it buss up.”

Villagers said the animal was also killed on the

“Cows, donkeys and horses are on the road and nobody removing them. I lost my son, he never married, hasn’t seen life as yet and he lost his life just like that,” a hurt Atmaram said.

Meanwhile, police are continuing their investigations and say they are awaiting a post-mortem examination of Atmaram’s body. (G4)

Dead: Kumar Atmaram

The damaged motorcycle

The damaged helmet

President Dr Irfaan Ali met with Tania Kinsella, First Deputy Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (NYPD), and her team at the State House. During the meeting on Monday, the NYPD signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to strengthen cooperation. In a post on President Ali’s social media page, it was stated that he expressed satisfaction with the collaboration, which aims to improve policing strategies in Guyana. US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot; NYPD Inspector Courtney Nilan; US State Department Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs and Caribbean Program Advisor, Jake Patrick Collins; Guyana’s Home Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn; Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd; Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud and senior GPF members also attended the meeting

(Office of the President and Radio Eve Leary photos)

Labour Ministry’s intervention

Education Ministry, GTU to continue negotiations today

Conciliatory talks between the Education Ministry and the Guyana Teachers Union will continue today as there has not been any major headway made during discussions on Wednesday.

In an interview with Guyana Times following the meeting on Monday, Chief Education Officer Saddam Hussain disclosed that the Ministry is reviewing the dialogue exchanged on Monday, which will determine the Ministry’s position on the various issues.

According to Hussain, the engagement was fruitful.

“This is a clear situation that can be easily resolved…I believe that every teacher would want to see a resolution of all the issues and I think that the entire country is expecting that there is some sort of resolution on all of the issues,” the CEO said.

Hussain said, “it was a good day it was a very very good day activity. There was discussion on both sides and I think both sides made clear what it

is they wanted out of this activity and so we have gone ahead. We have made progress and we expect to continue tomorrow (today) at 10:30h.”

When asked about the conciliation document that the GTU President, Mark Lyte had told the media earlier in the day that he presented to the MOE, Hussain said that he is not aware of Lyte’s document proposal.

“I am not aware that Dr Lyte presented any document, what happened was during the course of the meeting was that there was discussion on both sides and the chief labour officer began drafting a document for both sides. This conciliation was requested you recall by the MOE it was not something that the Union asked for, we asked the Ministry of Labour to intervene because there seem to be some sort of an impasse” he stated.

Hussain noted that the MOE has already began reviewing the terms and conditions presented and will be ready to return to the bargaining table today

to resolve ongoing issues.

The parties met on Monday for conciliation talks regarding the ongoing teachers strike, which resumed on last Thursday.

This was facilitated following the issuance of a letter from the Education Ministry to the Labour Ministry requesting that Minister Joseph Hamilton intervene in the matter with the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU).

The government, through the Education Ministry, has made it clear that it stands ready to engage the Union on the Multi-Year Agreement from 2024 onwards, however, GTU wants the talks to be centered from 2019 to 2024.

After several hours of discussions, both parties agreed to commence the conciliation process, and according to the GTU’s President, a document outlining the union’s terms and conditions for the resumption of work was presented.

It was also noted by the Union’s General Secretary Coretta McDonald that the document which aims to

pave the way for further discussion has been reviewed by the union’s legal representatives and is awaiting an approval or denial from the Education Ministry.

The terms and conditions were not disclosed.

The request made by the Education Ministry was provided for under the provisions of the 1990 Memorandum of Agreement “the avoidance and settlement of disputes” between the Government of Guyana and the Guyana Teachers’ Union and the Labour Act, Cap. 98:01, which allows the impasse in respect of the timeframe to be referred to the Labour Minister for Conciliation.

Resumption of strike

The Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) resumed strike action across the country on Thursday last, after talks between the union and Education Ministry reportedly broken down.

Teachers had only on March 6 returned to the classroom, after striking for some four weeks.

As a result, the teachers, through their union,

had ended the strike and agreed to return to discussions with the government regarding salary increases.

When the strike had ended, the Union and the government were engaged in discussions on issues affecting teachers.

McDonald later told media operatives that the decision to resume the strike is because the union believes there is nothing forthcoming from the Government as it relates to collective bargaining.

The government has already addressed over 20 issues affecting teachers, aimed at improving their working conditions and overall welfare.

In fact, at the time of the last strike, President Dr Irfaan Ali had reminded that he has already met with teachers across the country and outlined the government’s plan to improve their livelihoods.

Moreover, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo had calculated that at the end of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government’s first term in office, grad -

uate teachers would have benefited from salary increases amounting to nearly 50 per cent.

Further, on April 19, the High Court had ruled in favour of the GTU, and stipulated that teachers’ salaries should not be deducted following their participation in the recent strike.

The High Court had also ruled against government’s decision to discontinue the deduction of union dues from the salaries of teachers for the GTU.

This came on the heels of the Guyana Government’s refusal to negotiate for that salary increases for the period December 2019 to 2023, but instead was ready to do so for a multiyear agreement starting 2024.

Attorney General Anil Nandlall has since said government will appeal the ruling at the level of the Guyana Court of Appeal, with the likelihood that the case will go to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), Guyana’s final court of appeal. (G1)

Hess investors advised to abstain from vote on US$53B Chevron deal

Shareholders of Hess should abstain from voting on its $53bn takeover by Chevron, proxy adviser Institutional Shareholder Services has recommended in a potential blow to the US oil companies’ efforts to wrap up the deal quickly. The takeover is the latest in a se-

ries of large mergers and acquisitions in the oil industry. Among the assets it would deliver to Chevron is Hess’s lucrative stake in an offshore oil block off the coast of Guyana. A tense dispute over Guyana is casting a shadow over the deal. ExxonMobil, which has a 45 per cent stake in

the Stabroek Block, asserts it has a right of first refusal over Hess’s 30 per cent stake. ISS, one of two leading shareholder advisory firms, on Monday said Hess investors should support a pause to allow more time for details on an arbitration process Exxon initiated to emerge. Hess shareholders are due to vote on the deal on May 28. Chevron’s share price slipped 0.8 per cent on Monday. ISS said during any adjournment Chevron may want to consider offering an incentive to Hess shareholders payment to compensate for a delay in closing the deal or in case the deal falls apart. “Investors are presently unable to make an informed assessment of the likely timetable for the ROFR (right of first refusal) arbitration process,” ISS said. Glass Lewis, the other leading advisory service, has yet to issue its opinion

of the deal. The proxy adviser added that given the uncertainty surrounding the transaction and the potential interference of Exxon with the current proposed deal, “Hess shareholders bear the risk of a potentially broken deal without any compensation.” Chevron on Monday said: “We look forward to Hess obtaining a successful shareholder vote and completing the transaction.” Under the deal’s terms, Chevron has a right

to walk away from the deal without paying a break-up free if Exxon wins the arbitration. Darren Woods, Exxon chief executive, last week told a conference in Los Angeles that the arbitration process could drag on until 2025. Exxon is claiming a right of first refusal on the assets in Guyana under a joint operating agreement with Hess and the China National Offshore Oil Corporation, which owns 25 per cent of

the Stabroek Block. “This is an important arbitration, obviously, not only for ExxonMobil but for Chevron and Hess,” Woods said. “What we need to do is take our time to do what’s right to make sure that we do all the due diligence and we get to the answer — the right answer.” ISS said the industrial rationale for the deal “may ultimately be defensible”, although it added that the roughly 10 per cent premium to be paid to Hess shareholders was modest. The deal also faces political headwinds and an investigation by the Federal Trade Commission. On Sunday Chuck Schumer, US Senate majority leader, called on regulators to block the transaction over concerns it could raise petrol prices. “The FTC should side with consumers and pump the breaks [sic] on this deal,” he said on social media. (Financial Times)

Education Ministry officials and the Guyana Teachers’ Union meet with the Chief Labour Officer at the Labour Ministry on Monday (Education Ministry photos)

Hinterland girls, expecting mothers benefit from hygiene, baby kits

Some 160 personal hygiene kits were distributed to women and girls and 200 baby kits to expecting mothers across Regions Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), Eight (PotaroSiparuni) and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) by Food For The Poor Guyana Inc.

FFTP on Monday said that this move is part of a concerted effort to uplift and empower vulnerable communities. The Region Seven distribution benefited women and girls from the communities of 72 Miles, Kangaruma, and the township of Bartica. In Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni), women and girls from the communities of Princeville, Campbell Town, Muruwa, Tuseng, Turuka, and Bamboo Creek received support, while in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), the beneficiaries were from the commu-

Some of the beneficiaries

nities of Annai and Nappi. The items were distributed through the various health facilities in the communities. According to FFTP, recognising the unique challenges women and girls face in these hinterland regions, it remains dedicated to addressing critical needs and ensuring access to essential resources. The personal hygiene kits serve as crucial means of promoting health, hygiene, and dignity among women and girls, while the baby kits offer essential supplies to expecting mothers, they also contribute to the well-being of both mother and child.

The organisation stated that by extending support to vulnerable populations, particularly in remote and underserved regions, it underscores its unwavering commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all Guyanese citizens.

16 graduate from Republic Bank's Youth Link Apprenticeship Programme

Sixteen young adults are now equipped with skills to help them gain employment having completed the seven-month Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited’s apprenticeship programme.

On Monday, Republic Bank said that after months of dedication, hard work, and invaluable learning experiences, the 13th batch of Youth Link Apprentices, graduated at a ceremony held at the Guyana Marriott Hotel last week. They will each receive a Caribbean Vocational Qualification Banking Operations Level 1 Certificate. This Certificate is approved by the Council for Human and Social Development of Caricom through the Council for Technical and Vocational Education and Training

(CTVET). With this qualification, the Apprentices will be eligible for jobs within the Caricom Region. Throughout the programme, each apprentice was exposed to a combination of classroom instruction, on-the-job training and self-directed learning. Under the guidance of CTVET certified trainers and assessors, these apprentices improved their skills and knowledge in various areas essential for success in the world of work.

The apprentices, the bank said, were assigned to various branches across the Bank’s network from October 2023 to April 2024, where they received comprehensive training and practical experience. They gained insights into commu-

nication techniques, office procedures and sales strategies, while also crafting business proposals and developing their public speaking abilities through effective presentation sessions.

In addition to formal training, participants were also exposed to purposeful activities designed to broaden their perspectives and enhance their personal development. They interacted with children from the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre, received First Aid training from the Guyana Red Cross. and enjoyed a memorable trip to a local resort, allowing them to deepen their appreciation for our nation’s history and natural splendor.

In his address to the graduates, Managing Director of Republic Bank

(Guyana) Limited, Stephen Grell said that the true essence of the apprenticeship Programme is about preparing young adults to better navigate their personal and professional pursuits. He remarked "…. we are really celebrating the emergence of future leaders; young men and women who are

better equipped to succeed in today’s working world; more willing to make a difference to build more successful societies."

The 2023/2024 Youth Link Apprenticeship Programme graduation ceremony served a key reminder of the power of education, mentorship, and opportu-

nity to transform lives and shape futures, the bank said.

The Youth Link Apprenticeship Programme was first introduced in Guyana in 2008 primarily to bridge the gap between the end of the participants’ school life and the start of their careers.

Republic Bank officials along with the young adults who were part of the 2023/2024 Youth Link Apprenticeship Programme

MV Ma Lisha enters drydock 1 year after delivery

…MV KIMBIA to ply Georgetown to Kumaka route

After one year of operation, the MV Ma Lisha will enter drydock for a period of three weeks, as part of the Contractual Agreement between the Transport and Harbours Department of the Public Works Ministry and the Garden Reach Ship builders and Engineers Ltd.

The drydocking of the vessel, which began on Monday, was done to complete the administrative process of Guarantee Slipping, so that the vessel can exit its defects liability period and the retained sum can be paid to its builders.

This routine process is a part of the Public Work Ministry’s contractual agreement with the Garden Reach Shipbuilders Engineers Ltd (GRSE).

The vessel “Slipping” process involves lifting

the ship from the sea along special rails, and then moving it to a location where its surfaces can be inspected from various angles.

This allows for all materials, fittings and equipment upon the vessel to be fully inspected and checked for any issue that may have arisen during the first year of operation to be rectified.

On Monday, the Public Works Ministry said that the cost of the Guarantee Slipping is being borne by the GRSE and the works are being carried out at the Guyana Port Inc. located at Supply, East Bank Demerara. A team from GRSE led by Commander Kartic, the Project Manager is in charge of coordinating the activities. The MV Ma Lisha will resume full service at the end of this administrative period. In the

interim, the MV Kimbia will ply the Georgetown to Kumaka route.

The $2.5 billion vessel, which plys

the Barima-Waini/ Georgetown was built by Indian company Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited and

has special features to mitigate challenges faced by travelers the ferry has the capacity to accommodate up to 276 passen -

gers, along with 18 crew members. It can also carry 14 sedan-type vehicles and two trucks.

Keep environment clean to avoid mosquitoborne illnesses – Health Ministry

As Mosquito

Awareness Week begins, which is observed from May 13 – May 17, the Health Ministry is emphasising the importance of taking a proactive approach to maintain a clean environment to prevent the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses. With the rainy season approaching and the rise of dengue fever, it is vital for citizens to be more aware since this remains a significant health concern, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions.

Health officials are urging citizens to be vigilant in eliminating standing water sources around their homes, such as flower pots, tires, and gutters, as these are common breeding sites for mosquitoes. By regularly checking and emptying containers that collect water, individuals can significantly reduce the mosquito population in their surroundings.

Head of Department,

Medical Entomology Unit and Vector Control Services at the Health Ministry, Crystal Crawford in a recent interview on local program ‘Health Matters’ stated, "prevention is key when it comes to mosquito-borne diseases. By keeping our living spaces clean and free of stagnant water, we can protect ourselves and our communities from potential outbreaks."

Meanwhile, Director (ag) Vector Control Services Unit, Dr. Reza Niles-Robin

featured on the same programme also emphasised on the importance of preventing mosquito bites to reduce the risk of dengue transmission. She noted individuals should take the necessary precautions such as using mosquito repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants, and ensuring there are no areas of stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed.

Moreover, Dr. Niles highlighted the significance of controlling mosquitoes both

inside and outside homes.

The Ministry of Health’s Vector Control Department has been actively conducting fogging exercises to reduce mosquito populations. As dengue prevention requires a collective effort, citizens are encouraged to remain vigilant in maintaining clean and mosquito-free environments.

As part of Mosquito Awareness Week, under the slogan ‘Stop Disease Transmission/ Reduce Source Reduction’ the Ministry of Health is encouraging persons to come out and get the necessary information on prevention and awareness. Crawford stressed on the importance of ‘small bites big treats’ and in order to see a decrease in dengue cases we have to keep our environments clean, killing the larva so as to prevent them from emerging as adults.

Educational campaigns and distribution of infor-

mational materials to raise awareness about the risks associated with mosquitoes and the preventive measures that can be taken will be avail. While community clean-up initiatives and fumigation efforts will also be organised to further control the mosquito population. Residents are encouraged to co-operate with health authorities and actively participate in keeping their environment clean and mosquito-free. By working together, we can create a healthier and safer living environment for everyone.

Medical Entomology Unit and Vector Control Services at the Health Ministry, Head of Department, Crystal Crawford

Vector Control Services Director (ag), Dr Reza Niles-Robin

New modernised wing at Court of Appeal commissioned

…Judiciary looking to implement electronic payment system

n a stride towards effi-

Icient court proceedings coupled with modern technology, a state-of-theart new wing for the Court of Appeal was on Monday commissioned.

The new wing features a courtroom, judges’ chambers, a conference room, a lounge, a library, is outfitted with built in modern equipment among other facilities.

Chancellor (ag) Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards during the unveiling of the plaque ceremonial cutting of the ribbon to commission the facility at High StreetKingston, said that the courtroom has long been needed to carry out various tasks, given the significant rise in cases and the imperative need for modernisation.

“There became a need for another court room as the old one could no longer supply for the volume of the number of cases heard by the court. The number of cases has grown exponentially and as such the court offices had to be expanded,” she explained.

Alongside the ongoing

progress of modernised facilities created in the judiciary, Justice Edwards also took the time to reveal that through continued collaboration the judiciary is hoping to soon implement an electronic payment system. which will foster easier transactions.

“We are extremely hopeful that with the continued cooperation of the Finance ministry we will in the soon future implement an electronic paying system to receive payments form litigants and lawyers and effect

transfers to the consolidated funds,” she revealed.

Meanwhile, Chief Justice, Justice Roxane George, who was also present at the event revealed that this implementation has marked a significant step as the last court room was situated in close proximity of a car park and there was not enough space for staff.

Additionally, she said that this new court room has been built in a timely manner having seen the exponential growth of the country

and the court must be needed during this time.

“In the old court room, there were hardly any facilities for our administration staff, and we needed extra

out in a way that it is conducive to Guyana’s environment as the mission of the court is to uphold the rule of law and to provide access to the timely rule of justice in a fare transparent and efficient manner Meanwhile as develop-

“We shall soon commission the Mahdia Supreme Court, when we say that there is a physical transformation taking place within Guyana, we do not only mean from an executive perspective but from transformation standpoint as well

facilities, with the economic rise within our country it shows the need for more matters to be dealt with for more cases, whether it be commercial civil and environmental the need is there for those cases to be heard,” she said.

According to the judge, these cases must be carried

ment within the Judicial system flickers in many directions due to the progressive work of the government, Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Mohabir Anil Nandlall, who also spoke said that the Mahdia Supreme Court’s building will soon be commissioned.

as every sector of our country will be enhanced, he stated whilst then further underscoring that the judiciary will never be left out of the governments plans as they will be partnering with them again to provide the most advanced reputable facilities,” AG said.

(G2)

Inside the new wing at the Court of Appeal

The library inside the new wing

Inside one of the judges’ chambers

Attorney General Anil Nandlall

Chancellor (ag) Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards

Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George

Regional

Persistent flooding in Brazil raises spectre of climate migration

Devastating and ongoing flooding in southern Brazil is forcing some of the half million displaced residents to consider uprooting their lives from inundated towns to rebuild on higher ground.

Two weeks after the onset of torrential rains, the Guaiba River running by state capital Porto Alegre is rising again, having passed the all-time high. In the state of Rio Grande do Sul, the streets of dozens of towns have turned into slow-moving rivers.

Just in the area around Porto Alegre, where four rivers converge to form the Guaiba River, researchers estimate nearly 3800 square kilometres (1,500 square miles) were flooded. That is more than the urban footprint of the Washington DC metro area, which includes 10 counties in two adjacent states.

With hundreds of thousands of families fleeing the floods, the disaster –which has killed at least 147 persons, with 127 still missing – could touch off one of Brazil's biggest cases of climate migration in recent history.

Southern Brazil's location at the confluence of tropical and polar currents has fed periods of increasingly intense drought and rains due to climate change, according to scientists.

The record devastation in Rio Grande do Sul follows floods in the second

half of last year, leading many of the 538,000 persons now displaced from their homes to consider more extreme adaptations.

For the third time in seven months, businessman Cassiano Baldasso had to remove wheelbarrows of mud from his home in Muçum, a small town 150km (90 miles) upriver from Porto Alegre, only to see the waters rise again. He says he has had enough.

"I have no idea where I'm going, but it will be somewhere far from the river, where our lives will not be at risk," Baldasso told Reuters as he removed another cart of mud from inside the house.

Mayor Mateus Trojan said many of Muçum's 5000 residents will have to relocate. His office is planning to rebuild 40 per cent of the town elsewhere.

Baldasso had already saved his family in September by climbing onto the roof of their two-storey house until they were rescued by the fire brigade in the middle of the night.

During that flood, just a few blocks away, Maria Marlene Venancio's house was swept away and she lost everything. This month, the rented house she had moved to was flooded 1.5 metres (5 ft) deep. She fears it is time to leave Muçum.

"I think the town will become a river one day, and it will be difficult for us to live here. People with money are all leaving," she said.

Governor Eduardo Leite has said initial calculations show Rio Grande do Sul will need at least 19 billion reais (US$3.7 billion) to rebuild from the disaster. The federal government has offered to freeze 11 billion reais of debt payments for three years.

On the streets of Muçum and other nearby towns, the slowly receding waters leave desolate scenes of furniture, clothing and appliances piled up in front of the houses.

Maria Ines Silverio has returned to her house, but she keeps her clothes in plastic bags for fear of the river rising again. She has a 30-year mortgage and says she cannot afford to leave.

"When we bought the house, this wasn't a flooded area. Now it is, and the river is going to rise more and more," she said.

Environmental experts warn that there is no alternative for some towns in the state but to relocate entire neighbourhoods.

"We need to move urban infrastructure away from high-risk environments and return space to the rivers ... so they no longer impact cities with such magnitude," said ecologist Marcelo Dutra, Professor at the Rio Grande Federal University.

"We can't oppose nature. We have to wake up to this force that is telling us we need to adapt and respect nature," he said. (Reuters)

Jamaica: 2 schoolboys among 4 shot in drive-by on Wild Street

F our persons, including two schoolboys, were shot during a drive-by along Wild Street in East Kingston on Monday afternoon. According to news reaching Observer Online, at least two of the victims have since succumbed to their injuries. The deceased have not yet been identified. Reports indicate that

a white Mark X drove up along Wild Street. One of the occupants stepped out of the car and opened fire on a group of people standing on the road. (Jamaica Observer)

Argentina ramps up pressure on Venezuela over Opposition refugees in Embassy

Argentina's Government is set to ramp up pressure on Venezuela to grant safe passage to six Opposition aides who had sought refuge in its embassy in Caracas, official sources said, adding they were at physical risk if they didn't leave the country.

Two senior Argentine officials told Reuters last week that the Administration of President Nicolás Maduro, who has looked to head off political rivals ahead of July presidential elections, had reneged on promises to allow the six to safely leave the country.

In March, aides to Venezuelan Opposition Leader María Corina Machado requested asylum at the Argentine Embassy in Caracas, after a local prosecutor issued arrest warrants against them for conspiracy. Machado, who has denied any allegations of misconduct by her team, was blocked from being a candidate in the upcoming election despite being the front-runner in polls.

Maduro's Government

has been going after political Opposition candidates, including Machado, despite electoral commitments signed last year, a trend that saw Washington reimpose broad oil sanctions in April.

In April, Reuters reported, citing a Venezuelan official source, that Maduro's socialist government would allow the six aides to leave safely, in order to travel to Buenos Aires.

However, senior Argentine sources from the Government of right-wing

told Reuters no such concession was ever granted.

"Venezuela is not issuing safe-conduct passes, it is not complying with what was agreed upon or with the (1954) Convention on Diplomatic Asylum," said one of the sources, an official from Argentina's Foreign Ministry. Venezuela's Ministry of Information did not immediately respond to a request for comment. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Lawyers seeking release of Vybz Kartel

Attorneys representing Vybz Kartel and two of his three co-accused on Monday filed a habeas corpus application seeking their release.

The habeas corpus application hearing seeking the release of entertainer Vybz Kartel and two co-accused is to continue later this month.

The matter was adjourned in the Supreme Court on Monday morning.

The application seeking the release of Kartel, whose real name is Adidja Palmer; Shawn “Shawn Storm” Campbell, and Andre St John will be heard over two days, May 29 and 30.

The fourth co-accused, Kahira Jones, has another matter before the court.

Attorney Isat Buchanan said the application was brought before the court because of issues that the defence does not wish to disclose.

In March, the Privy Council quashed their 2014 convictions for the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams, citing juror misconduct and sent the case back to the Court of Appeal of Jamaica for a ruling on whether they should be retried. Williams, of whom no trace has been found since, was allegedly killed after he failed to return two unlicensed guns given to him by Kartel for safekeeping. The convicted men have maintained their innocence.

(Adapted from Nation News)

Sargassum hits Barbados’s

South Coast beaches

Sargassum seaweed continues to invade the coastlines of Barbados.

On Sunday, a large amount of the algae, which usually accumulates in large heaps on the East Coast, was spotted on the South Coast beaches, particularly in the areas of Accra and Rockley in Christ Church.

One beachgoer said it had to wash ashore overnight as over the weekend the beach was free and clear of seaweed. (Nation News)

A drone view shows flooded streets in downtown Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, May 13, 2024 (Reuters/Diego Vara photo)

libertarian Javier Milei,

Venezuelan Opposition Leader Maria Corina Machado

The application seeks the release of Kartel, whose real name is Adidja Palmer; Shawn “Shawn Storm” Campbell and Andre St John

Around the World

IOIL NEWS

Formerly bullish investors dump oil as demand disappoints

nvestors sold petroleum futures and options in the most recent week at the fastest rate for a year as the war risk premium continued to evaporate and the anticipated strong recovery in consumption receded.

Hedge funds and other money managers sold the equivalent of 143 million barrels in the six most important petroleum-related derivatives contracts over the seven days ending on May 7.

Fund managers have sold petroleum derivatives in each of the last four weeks reducing their combined position by a total of 265 million barrels since April 9.

The combined position had been reduced to 420 million barrels (21st percentile for all weeks since 2013) from 685 million (66th percentile) four weeks earlier.

Positioning had become strongly bearish from moderately bullish at the start of April, based on reports filed with ICE Futures Europe and the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission.

In the most recent week, there were heavy sales of both Brent (-60 million barrels) and NYMEX and ICE WTI (-57 million) as well as US gasoline (-19 million) and European gas oil (-12 million). The only purchases were in US diesel.

Positioning has become exceptionally bearish towards WTI, with a net holding of just 83 million barrels (5th percentile) and longs outnumbering shorts by a ratio of just 1.60:1 (6th percentile).

Persistent growth in US crude production has ensured inventories remain close to the long-term average and the regional market is well supplied.

By contrast, Brent is neutral, with a net holding of 261 million barrels (57th percentile) and longs outnumbering shorts by 4.21:1 (46th percentile).

The less bearish positioning on Brent likely reflects residual conflict risk in the Middle East and the North Sea marker’s smaller exposure to over-production in the United States.

It may also reflect a structural shift towards futures and options linked to Brent and away from WTI after WTI grades were included in the Brent price assessments.

At the same time, the fund community has become mildly bearish about the outlook for both European gas oil and US diesel in response to the halting recovery in manufacturing and freight activity.

Biodiesel and other renewable fuel oils are also capturing a small but rapidly increasing share of the freight markets formerly dominated by petroleum-derived diesel.

The anticipated cyclical depletion of inventories has not materialised so far this year; the market remains comfortably supplied with few signs prices will move higher in the short term.

Previous bullishness about US gasoline also vanished, with funds selling a total of 36 million barrels over the last four weeks.

The net position had been cut to just 49 million barrels (41st percentile) from 85 million (88th percentile) four weeks earlier.

US natural gas

Investors have become progressively less bearish about the outlook for US gas prices despite the massive amount of inventories carried after an exceptionally warm winter in 2023/24.

Hedge funds and other money managers purchased the equivalent of 490 billion cubic feet (bcf) in futures and options linked to gas prices at Henry Hub in Louisiana over the seven days ending on May 7.

Funds purchased gas contracts at the fastest rate for nine weeks since early March in response to indications surplus inventories have stabilised and expectations they will be reduced over the summer.

The overall position was boosted to a net long of 314 bcf (41st percentile since 2010), the highest for almost four months.

Inventories remain 667 bcf (36% or +1.46 standard deviations) above the prior 10-year seasonal average but the surplus has been basically stable for the last two months after increasing relentlessly for most of the winter. (Reuters)

Israeli forces press Gaza offensive from north and south

Israeli forces pushed deep into the ruins of Gaza's northern edge on Monday to recapture an area from Hamas fighters, while in the south tanks and troops pushed across a highway into Rafah, leaving Palestinian civilians scrambling to find safety.

Some of the most intense fighting for weeks is raging in both the north and south. Israeli operations in Rafah, which borders Egypt, have closed a main crossing point for aid, which humanitarian groups say is worsening an already-dire situation.

Hundreds of thousands of people are being forced to flee again after around half of Gaza's population took sanctuary there after Israel ordered evacuations from north-

ern Gaza in October.

Gaza's health authority appealed for international pressure to reopen access via the southern border to allow in aid, medical supplies and fuel to power generators and ambulances.

"The wounded and sick suffer a slow death, because there is no treatment and supplies, and they cannot travel," it said.

A foreign United Nations staff member was killed on Monday when a vehicle travelling to a hospital in Rafah was struck –- the first international UN casualty in the Gaza war, a UN spokesperson said.

In northern Gaza's Jabalia, a sprawling refugee camp built for displaced Palestinians 75 years ago,

Israeli forces pushed into an area where they claimed to have dismantled Hamas months ago.

Residents fled along rubble-strewn streets carry-

and health

cials said they had recovered 20 bodies from overnight airstrikes. (Excerpt from

Russia widens Kharkiv front in Ukraine with small assault groups, governor says

Russia pressed its ground assault into the north of Ukraine's Kharkiv region on Monday, attacking new areas with small groups to try to widen the front and stretch Ukrainian forces, the regional governor said.

Moscow's troops entered Ukraine near its second largest city of Kharkiv on Friday, opening a new, northeastern front in a war that has for almost two years been largely fought in the east and south. The advance could draw some of Kyiv's depleted forces away from the east, where Russia has been slowly advancing.

"The enemy is trying to deliberately stretch it (the front line), attacking in small groups, but in new directions, so to speak," Governor Oleh Syniehubov said in televised comments.

"The situation is difficult."

Russia's forces were driving towards the town of Vovchansk about five kilometres (three miles) from the Russian border, as well as the village of Lyptsi which lies north of Kharkiv, he said.

Kyiv's troops are managing to defend all of the approaches to Vovchansk, he said, but Moscow's forces are trying to establish themselves at a meat plant on the outskirts of the town, according to the settlement's military administration.

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, in his nightly video message, said Vovchansk and other border areas had been reinforced. Ukraine's military, he said, understood "how the enemy operates and ... the intention to divert our forces". (Excerpt from Reuters)

OpenAI unveils new AI model as competition heats up

ChatGPT mak-

er OpenAI said on Monday it would release a new AI model called GPT-4o, capable of realistic voice conversation and able to interact across text and image, its latest move to stay ahead in a race to dominate the emerging technology.

New audio capabilities enable users to speak to ChatGPT and obtain real-time responses with no delay, as well as interrupt ChatGPT while it is speaking, both hallmarks of realistic conversations that AI voice assistants have found challenging, the OpenAI researchers showed at a lives-

tream event.

OpenAI planned to announce its own artificial intelligence-powered search product on Monday.

"It feels like AI from the movies ... Talking to a computer has never felt really natural for me; now it does," OpenAI CEO Sam Altman wrote in a blog post.

Microsoft-backed OpenAI faces growing competition and pressure to expand the user base of ChatGPT, its popular chatbot product that wowed the world with its ability to produce human-like written content and top-notch software code. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Michael

Cohen said hush money payment to Stormy Daniels had Trump's 'signoff'

Donald Trump's former fixer and Attorney Michael Cohen told jurors that the Republican presidential candidate personally signed off on a hush-money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels to bury her story about an alleged sexual encounter before it could derail his 2016 campaign.

"Just do it," Cohen said Trump told him, instructing him to figure out the best way of paying Daniels US$130,000 to stay quiet about the alleged

2006 encounter. The payment is at the centre of the first trial of a former US President, which has entered its fifth week in New York state criminal court in Manhattan.

Cohen, once one of Trump's most loyal lieutenants and now the prosecution's star witness, will be back to resume his testimony today.

Trump has pleaded not guilty and has denied having any sexual relationship with Daniels. (Excerpt from Reuters)

ing bags of belongings. Tank shells landed in the centre of the camp

offi-

Reuters)

Smoke rises following Israeli strikes, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, in Jabalia refugee camp northern Gaza Strip, May 13, 2024 (Reuters/Mahmoud Issa photo)

A Police Officer helps a local resident during an evacuation to Kharkiv due to Russian shelling, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in the town of Vovchansk in Kharkiv region, Ukraine, May 13, 2024 (Reuters/Stringer)

Former US President Donald Trump waits for the start of proceedings in his trial at Manhattan criminal court, Monday, May 13, 2024, in New York (Seth Wenig/Pool via Reuters)

DAILY HOROSCOPES

(March 21-April 19)

Reconnect with things that put a smile on your face or passion in your heart. An active lifestyle will get you back on track and ready to conquer your dreams.

Take the time to map out the best route. Refuse to let anyone take advantage of you or cause you to second-guess what you want in your life. Take better care of yourself.

SUDOKU

(May 21-June 20) (April 20-May 20)

Don't let anyone decide what's best for you. Mull over your options, get a handle on the specifics and press forward enthusiastically. It's time to call the shots.

(June 21-July 22)

(July 23-Aug. 22)

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

Refuse to let emotional baggage weigh you down. Step out, participate and do your best to make a difference. You will receive a clear indication of how someone feels.

Stepping into the spotlight unprepared will slow you down. Find out what's important to people whose support you need. Rely on your intelligence and charm to carry the day.

A change may be necessary, but first you must gather the data and consider your options. Knowledge is powerful, and putting everything in place ahead of time will be key. Learn from experience.

Participation will lead to insight, personal growth and a sense of what you want to pursue. Don't let laziness set in when punctuality and hard work will be required.

Unusual people, places and pastimes will capture your attention. Be sure to take advantage of the chance to try something new or meet interesting people.

Domestic problems will surface if you ignore what's happening in your backyard. Keep a close watch over what the people in your life are up to.

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Don't let the little things get to you. Step out and enjoy a change of pace, scenery or lifestyle. What you discover will lead to some valuable insight and changes.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Pay attention to detail and to what others say and do. Don't allow anyone to mislead you. Do your homework before making a big move. Make sure you consider all the ramifications.

Embrace the moment and command attention. Shrug off anything weighing you down and decide what's best for you. Take charge, make clear decisions and refuse to let anyone rain on your parade.

"Hopefully, we'll ruin it..."

Kemar Roach eager to spoil James Anderson's farewell Test

West Indies veteran fast bowler Kemar

Roach is setting his sights on ruining James Anderson's farewell Test against the West Indies, expressing confidence in his team's ability to secure a historic away series win against England when the three-Test series bowls off on July 10.

The 41-year-old Anderson, England's most successful bowler, having taken 700 Test wickets in 187 Tests during his illustrious career, recently announced that he will hang up his boots after the first Test against the West Indies.

Roach, who on Monday took 6 for 46 in Surrey's County Championship victory over Warwickshire, believes the West Indies seam attack is poised for success. With teammates Jayden Seales and Jason Holder also in fine form for Sussex and Worcestershire respectively, Roach is optimistic about their chances against England.

"It's a very highly talented and skilful group," Roach told ESPN Cricinfo at the Kia Oval. "We've not had the best of times over here in England, so it's more about focusing on us – not what they're going to do for him. He's going to get what he deserves. But it's all about us working hard

to get what we deserve, which is a series win over here in England."

Reflecting on Anderson's imminent retirement after the Lord's Test, Roach acknowledged the English bowler's greatness while maintaining a competitive spirit. "He's a great fast bowler, probably one of the greatest," Roach remarked. "First Test match against us… hopefully, we ruin it," he added with a laugh. Roach expressed confidence in the West Indies' current seam attack, highlighting the emergence of young talents like Shamar Joseph and Jayden Seales alongside seasoned campaigner Alzarri Joseph. "With Shamar and Jayden Seales now – Alzarri as well – they have added a lot of X-factor to the bowling

unit," Roach noted. "To have three guys like that in the team, a captain to have that to select, for any given day or any given surface [is great]."

Despite approaching his 36th birthday, Roach's recent performances demonstrate his enduring skill and experience. "I've spent the past two weeks working hard on my balance at the crease," Roach shared. "To have those great days... that's what you want," he added, emphasising the team's readiness for the challenge ahead.

With the West Indies aiming for their first Test series win in England since 1988, Roach and his teammates are determined to put on a strong showing and create a memorable conclusion to Anderson's illustrious Test career. (Sportsmax)

Ahmedabad washout ensures top-two spot for KKR

Acombination of lightning and rain forced the first abandoned game of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 in Ahmedabad on Monday, and in the process confirmed two things: Kolkata Knight Riders' top-two finish in the league stage and Gujarat Titans' elimination from play-off contention.

Only a win could've kept eighth-placed GT in the hunt, but rain did not even allow for a toss. Such was the storm's intensity that some floodlights were also affected; banners in the stadium that got torn earlier ended up wrapping the floodlights in such a way that they needed to be manually removed.

GT's task was uphill anyway. With the season's lowest net run-rate of -1.063, they were only mathematically alive as even two big wins in their last two games could've still left them short. KKR were almost assured of a top-two fin-

ish courtesy of their dominating net run-rate of 1.428 after 12 games, but a 19th point in their tally sealed that.

This is the first time that GT have not qualified for the IPL play-offs since they joined the competition before the 2022 season. They have a consola-

tion game against Sunrisers Hyderabad next on May 16. Monday's game could've given KKR a chance to ease Rahmanullah Gurbaz, the wicketkeeper-batter, into the XI. Gurbaz is the likely replacement in their XI once Phil Salt leaves to join his national team camp.

For KKR, their next aim is to finish the league stage at number one, something they have never achieved before. If they beat Rajasthan Royals in their last league game on Sunday, they are assured of that. They would also be assured of number one if RR fail to collect two wins in their last two matches, which includes the KKR fixture. Even if KKR do not finish first, they wouldn't mind it much. The only two times they finished second on the IPL points table (2012 and 2014), they ended up as IPL champions. (ESPNcricinfo)

Buttler, Livingstone, other England cricketers

leave IPL early for T20 World Cup duty

Liam Livingstone, the Punjab Kings (PBKS) and England all-rounder, has left India ahead of schedule in a bid to get his knee "sorted" before June's T20 World Cup.

The rest of England's T20 World Cup squad, who have been at Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, have also started to return home. Will Jacks and Reece Topley flew back to the United Kingdom after Royal Challengers Bengaluru's win over Delhi Capitals (DC) on Sunday night, while Jos Buttler left the Rajasthan Royals (RRS) camp ahead of their game against PBKS in Guwahati on Wednesday.

Moeen Ali, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran, and Phil Salt will also leave India this week, with England

stands that the knee injury is not serious enough to place his prospects of travelling to the T20 World Cup in doubt, but requires a period of rest before England play Pakistan in four T20Is later this month.

players expected back in the country by this weekend. The squad will meet up in Leeds ahead of England's first T20I against Pakistan at Headingley on May 22.

Livingstone wants to get knee 'sorted' before T20 World Cup

Livingstone has suffered from a series of muscle injuries in the past two years and missed two games early in the IPL season after he went down in the field during a defeat to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) last month. He was later left out

by PBKS as they looked to find their best combination of overseas players, but he returned to the side in their loss to RCB on Thursday. "IPL done for another year, had to get my knee sorted for the upcoming World Cup," Livingstone wrote on

Instagram. "Thanks once again to the Punjab Kings fans for all their love and support. Disappointing season as a team and personally, but as always I loved every minute of playing in the IPL."

ESPNcricinfo under-

Livingstone struggled to make an impact for PBKS – who were among the first teams to be eliminated from the IPL 2024 play-offs race – in what he described as a "disappointing" campaign. He made 111 runs at 22.20 in seven innings, striking at 142.30, and took three wickets in 12 overs. It extends a lean winter for him in franchise cricket after a quiet SA20 season with MI Cape Town and a two-match stint with Sharjah Warriors. (ESPNcricinfo)

West Indies’ Kemar Roach and England’s James Anderson

Rain bashes down at the Narendra Modi Stadium as the ground staff are kept busy

It got scary at times, especially for the people at the venue

Sanju Samson will have to get a replacement for Jos Buttler at the top

Liam Livingstone will be looking to correct his knee issues before the global event

Matthews earns ICC Player of the Month award

… 3rd monthly award for the West Indies superstar

West Indies all-rounder Hayley Matthews has beaten off some stiff competition to be named the International Cricket Council (ICC) Women’s Player of the Month for April 2024. Matthews was rewarded for her excellent form during white-ball fixtures against Pakistan, as the 26-yearold edged out South Africa Captain Laura Wolvaardt and Sri Lanka skipper Chamari Athapaththu for the coveted monthly award.

It is the third time that Matthews has claimed the monthly ICC award, with the star all-rounder adding the success in April to previous wins in November 2021 and October 2023.

Ash Gardner (four times)

is the only player to have won the women's monthly award on more occasions than Matthews and the West Indies skipper was thrilled to have done so once more and closed

Inter-Schools

in on the Australia star.

"I’m really happy to win the award again. The performances resulted in the team’s success and that’s the most important thing for me as cap-

Kayaking Competition… NGSS see good returns on inaugural participation

During their first-ever participation in the third annual Inter-Schools Kayaking Competition on May 5, 2024, at the Watooka Guest House, Linden, North Georgetown Secondary School (NGSS) achieved noteworthy performances.

Breann Ritchie, with her determination, secured first place in the females’ Under-14 category, ahead of Linden Foundation’s Nicosia James in second and Walburg Secondary Sisi Sampon in third.

Head of Physical Education of North Georgetown, Brandee Douglas, in an exclusive comment with <<<Guyana Times Sport>>>, divulged that determination and willingness were the keys to their success last week.

Douglas shared, “I guess the determination and willingness of the students, we would have gotten some practice time. I think the students’ determination and it was a good experience for the children for the first time. In terms of the next preparations, I guess some practice and students' willingness to take part in the event.”

Douglas went on to ex-

pound that the win has motivated other teammates to do well in future competitions.

“It has motivated the students again, hoping that the students will go forward again, given most of the members of the team are fourth formers and third formers and one Grade 8, so yes it motivates the rest. They were all excited when their teammate would have done well,”

Douglas expounded.

Linden Foundation, with their ability to move swiftly through the water, finished the competition with 71 points and walked away with the $400,000 first prize.

Harmony Secondary had posed a threat to the title winners, but had to settle for sec-

ond place and $250,000; while 2023 Champions Kwakwani Secondary finished in third with 56 points and took home $150,000.

The competition saw participation from 13 schools hailing from Linden, Kwakwani, Georgetown, Berbice, and the West Side: namely North Ruimveldt Secondary, North Georgetown Secondary, St Stanislaus Secondary, West Demerara Secondary, Berbice High, Mackenzie High, Christiansburg Wismar Secondary, Wisburg Secondary, New Silvercity Secondary, Linden Foundation Secondary, Harmony Secondary, and Kwakwani Secondary. (Omar McKenzie)

and look to secure more crucial points in the ICC Women's Championship."

During April, Matthews made three appearances in T20Is and as many in ODIs against Pakistan.

In that period, the ICC Women's T20I Cricketer of the Year for 2023, made 325 runs at an impressive average of 162.5 to go with her six wickets in the ICC Women’s Championship ODI series. In the T20I leg, she scored 126 runs at an average of 42 and claimed six wickets.

tain," Matthews said.

"To win in Pakistan … was always a big goal. I wanted to perform well and contribute to the team’s success so to be able to have performances and get the results that was really good and showed that the hard work and the concentration in Pakistan paid off.

"Being able to set some new records and achieve some new milestones as well was good for me so I’m extremely happy. We have confidence and we will take this with us going into the tour of Sri Lanka

She also won four Player of the Match awards, two each in the ODI and T20I series, while also taking home the Player of the Series in ODIs.

In the ODI series opener, she made a scintillating 140* from 150 balls, consisting of 15 fours and a six. She then led the charge with the ball, returning 3/17 from her six overs as West Indies sealed a big 113-run victory over Pakistan.

In the second ODI, she took one wicket and contributed with 44 runs as the Windies cruised to a thrilling two-wicket win on the last

2024 Chess Championships qualifier underway

The Ready Mix powered Open Qualification Chess tournament, which is a lead-up to the 2024 National Chess Championship, got underway over the past weekend at School of the Nations, New Market Street, Georgetown.

Some 40 players of all ages are being paired for seven rounds of intense action over the chessboard to secure a top spot in the upcoming championship.

After a weekend’s worth of chess action, eight players are bunched together with outright wins after two rounds of play thus far.

They are FM Anthony Drayton, Loris Nathoo, Sachin Pitamber, Aditi Joshi, Rolex Alexander, Kyle Couchman, Ethan Lee, and Keron Sandiford.

The top nine players to qualify from this Ready Mix-sponsored competition will challenge defending National Champion Taffin Khan in their attempt to unseat him from the highest chess throne in Guyana.

In last year’s National Open Tournament, both

ball. Matthews made a stronger in the final ODI with a solid knock of 141 from 149. Her batting brilliance in this game included 19 fours. She also made an impact with the ball with returns of 2/26 from eight overs. In the T20Is that followed, she was dismissed for a rare duck in the opening fixture, however, she bowled an economic spell of 1/14 in her four overs. She made a brisk 58 in the second game and was also the star bowler of her side with returns of 3/25. In the final game, she made another half-century, making a 49-ball 68 and returning 2/22 with the ball. (ICC)

eventual champion Taffin Khan and Loris Nathoo ended their campaigns with 7.5 points. As such, the tie triggered the need for a rapid playoff in order to determine the National Champion.

Khan successfully defended his title during a fast-paced playoff that lasted less than one hour with main challenger Nathoo.

Two rounds were completed on Saturday and the remaining five will be contested next weekend, with the final on Saturday, May 25.

Scenes from the beginning of the Chess Championships qualifiers over the weekend

Taffin Khan is the reigning National Chess Champion

West Indian skipper Hayley Matthews was named ICC Women’s Player of the Month following an impressive series against Pakistan

Female Under-14

Champion Breann Ritchie (North Georgetown Secondary)

The North Georgetown Secondary team

NTFC being rectified for return of international football

Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr has assured that an international venue for football in Guyana will soon become available, after months of not having such a venue.

The issue was raised in light of Guyana’s senior men’s national team, the Golden Jaguars, having to play their home game for the FIFA 2026 World Cup Qualifiers overseas next month, similarly to their CONCACAF Nations League campaign in September to December last year.

During an invited comment with Sport Journalists on Friday last, Ramson Jr divulged that the pitch at the National Track and Field Centre (NTFC), West Coast Demerara is getting back in shape.

“Yeah, absolutely. So, we awarded the contract at the end of the year last year. We were going through a serious bout of dry spell in the country and that affected, not just Leonora, it affected a lot of grounds across the country. Without water, it’s difficult for grass to grow and even with some irrigation systems in place, it still is not the optimal condition,” the Sport Minister told me-

Tdia operatives at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC).

Ramson Jr further stated, “Having said that, I’ve seen an update on what the condition is right now and it’s getting back to a very, very, good condition. Even better than it was before. We are going to be in a strong position to host any matches that are going to be requested of us. Where that application is made to us, we’re going to be in a strong position to host.”

The Golden Jaguars’ home venues woes were put on embarrassing display last September, following a

3-2 victory for Guyana over the Bahamas at the NTFC, during the CONCACAF Nations League.

While the state of the chalky- looking pitch was highlighted immediately after the encounter concluded by Golden Jaguars Head Coach Jamaal Shabazz, CONCACAF later imposed a fine on the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) regarding the state of the pitch at the NTFC.

In imposing the fine, CONCACAF had informed the GFF that the playing surface was below the minimum required standards for international matches.

Republic Bank CPL launches Broadcast Talent Search

The Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has launched a region-wide talent search to find a presenter for its broadcast of the 2024 season. The CPL Talent Search is open to all Caribbean residents and the prize for the winner will be a contract to be a pitchside presenter for this year’s event.

This groundbreaking initiative will be searching for the next sports presenting superstar from within the region with training on offer for the winning participant so that they can hone their talent and use this amazing opportunity as a springboard to a career in broadcasting.

This is one of the many CPL initiatives that look to develop the next generation of Caribbean talent, but this is the first time that the focus will be on the CPL broadcast, which was watched by 853.5 million viewers in 2023.

Those wanting to submit a performance for the contest can do so by sharing them in front of the camera presenting or interviewing someone on social media with the hashtag #CPLTALENTSEARCH.

Paul Pritchett-Brown, CPL’s Head of Production, said: “We are really looking forward to seeing the submissions from the next generation of broadcasting talent from across the region. This is an amazing opportunity to showcase your skills in front of the camera and we are

Roger Boyce IFBB Pro Classic…

hopeful that we will get a lot of submissions as we search for the next on-screen talent.”

CPL Talent Search Terms & Conditions

•The contest is open to Caribbean residents aged 18 and above

•The campaign commences on 13th May 2024 and concludes on 12th June 2024

•CPL will choose to either select a winner or create s shortlist from submissions received

•Participants must tag their video content on #CPLTalentSearch in order to enter

•Submissions must be original and not infringe on third-party rights

•Content must comply with social media platform guidelines

•Entries must not include any inappropriate, offensive or unlawful material

•CPL reserves the right to change the scope and details of the competition or withdraw it at any time

•One prize winner will be selected to participate as a broadcast presenter during part of CPL 2024

•The winner will be announced on CPL social media channels and CPL will endeavour to contact the winner by social media direct message prior to the announcement

•By participating, entrants grant CPL and its partners the right to use their name, likeness and submitted content for promotional purposes without additional compensation

•Participants are responsible for obtaining any necessary permissions related to the content of their submissions

Rampersaud, Albert secure Pro cards

he Roger Boyce International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) Pro Classic 2024, which saw participation from several Guyanese athletes over the weekend in Barbados, culminated with two Guyanese, namely Hannah Rampersaud and Nicholas Albert securing their Pro cards, with Albert being the youngest in the Caribbean and Central America to do so.

Rampersaud, competing in the Women’s Wellness Senior up to 163cm category, won her category and went on to the overall where she placed second and secured her Pro card. Rampersaud now joins Laura Cravalle, 1979, and Rosanna Fung, 2022, as the third female Guyanese to win a Pro card and to be elevated to professional status in fitness and bodybuilding.

Albert, competing with five other athletes from Grenada, Mexico, Suriname, Barbados and Guadeloupe in the Men’s Bodybuilding Senior up to 90kgs category, dominated the field and won his category. In the bodybuilding overall, which brought together the winners from all

the bodybuilding categories, Albert again dominated and comfortably secured first place and with it secured the often elusive Pro card. Albert, at 22 years of age, is the youngest athlete to win a Pro card in the Caribbean and Central America re-

gion and joins Sylvon Bruce Whatley, 2018, as the only two male Guyanese bodybuilding athletes to acquire professional status in the sport.

On the other hand, Julio Sinclair competed with three of the best heavy-

weight athletes in the region in the Men’s Bodybuilding Senior over 90kgs and narrowly missed out on a gold medal, but comfortably secured the silver medal.

Rosanna Fung, taking on her third professional competition since capturing pro status at CAC

2022, came in third in the Women’s Wellness category.

This specific category was stacked with 10 other athletes from countries such as Czech Republic, Mexico, Jamaica, Haiti, Dominican Republic, and Paraguay.

In a missive, the Guyana Bodybuilding and Fitness

Federation (GBBFF) extended heartiest congratulations to the athletes on their great accomplishment on the international stage and went on to articulate gratitude to all sponsors, trainers, coaches and managers who worked with and supported the athletes.

Giroud leaving Milan to join MLS at end of season

Olivier Giroud announced he will be leaving Milan to join Major League Soccer (MLS) at the end of the season when his contract expires.

The Frenchman joined the club in July 2021 from Chelsea, winning the Serie A title in his first season.

Giroud has scored 48 goals in 130 games in all competitions for Milan, netting 16 of those this season to help them to a second-place finish.

In an emotional interview with the club’s media channels, Giroud said: "I'm here to tell you that the next two games will be my last for Milan. My career will continue in MLS.

"I'm very proud of everything I've done here at Milan

across three seasons. It's the right time to announce it. I'm a bit emotional. My story with Milan ends this season, but Milan will forever remain in my heart."

Though Giroud did not

confirm which team he would be joining in the MLS, previous reports suggested he could be moving to LAFC to link up with his France international team-mate, Hugo Lloris. (Sportsmax)

Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr

The RBL CPL is offering Caribbean residents the opportunity to become a CPL broadcaster

Hannah Rampersaud earned her Pro card

Milan’s Olivier Giroud