Guyana Times - Tuesday, May 9, 2023

PAC probes $115.9M still unreconciled on Guyana Post Office books

…Auditor General, Finance Ministry to engage management

Asum of $115.9 million, which has been unreconciled on the books of the Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC) for years and was flagged in the Auditor General’s 2019 report, was interrogated by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) during its statutory sitting on Monday.

During Monday’s sitting of the PAC, the Auditor General’s 2019 findings on the Ministry of Social Protection was examined. Surprisingly, it was found that the Guyana Post Office Corporation had still not reconciled $115.9 million on its books, which has been brought forward several years.

Permanent Secretary

the post office? Why do we still have $115 million that is unreconciled? What steps are being made to address this?” Edghill questioned.

However, Hoosein-Outar noted that the cash books have not been prepared properly, dating back years. Moreover, it was further clarified by Ministry staff that no reconciliation was being done between the then Ministry of Human Services and post office for a number of years. However, Edghill pointed out that a mechanism was set up to have the books balanced that should have been followed.

“So, we had a fraud at the post office, in relation to old age pension. The Auditor General and

ter form the internal audit office of the Ministry of Finance, on the way forward.

“We have worked on the audit of the accounts for the Guyana Post Office up to 2021, but it’s a disclaimer. So, there’s a disclaimer and we still have issues. The next step is we have to do a check between the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Social Protection and the post office, to determine what is the true position in terms of who owes who.”

“I think this is a balance brought forward several years and is unreconciled. The Ministry of Social Protection was trying to work on some of the differences, but I don’t think

Shannielle Hoosein-Outar said that the Ministry has opened a new account in order to balance the books. But the $115.9 million is still outstanding. Public Works Minister and PAC member Juan Edghill questioned why this was the case.

“So, what [you] would have done is use an accounting mechanism to have an opening balance continue to go forward while [you] deal with the backlog. But the Auditor General is dealing with the backlog.”

“We have $115 million that is not reconciled. Is it because we can’t find vouchers? Is it because we have unpresented vouchers from

Accountant General saw to this matter. The post office accounts were not audited for decades,” Edghill said.

“We were able to start a process of auditing and getting the books up to date and an agreement was made that we would have to draw the red line at some point and then start a new process from there. Are you telling me that red line was drawn and that new process is still producing this?”

Auditor General Deodat Sharma meanwhile disclosed that efforts were made to work with the post office, but those efforts had stalled. He noted that the Audit Office will have to get assistance on the mat-

it moved forward because the information the post office provided is uncertain,” Sharma further explained.

Meanwhile, Finance Secretary Sukrishnalall Pasha explained that at a previous meeting, they were told that the reconciliation might not be possible because the information needed in order to bring the books up to date is difficult to gather.

“So, this is something I intend to discuss with the AG, to come up with some solution. But to my recollection, it was clear that the reconciliation would be difficult if not impossible to complete, due to the lack of information,” Pasha said. (G3)

The GPO’s Bourda office

PAC member and Public Works Minister Juan Edghill

Social Services Ministry PS Shannielle Hoosein-Outar

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Tuesday, May 9 – 04:15h –05:45h and Wednesday, May 10 – 04:15h – 05:45h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Tuesday, May 9 – 05:40h –07:10h and Wednesday, May 10 – 07:10h – 08:40h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

There will be thundery showers during the day. Expect light rain showers and partly cloudy skies at night. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to North-Easterly between 3.57 metres and 6.25 metres.

High Tide: 06:40h and 19:19 reaching maximum heights of 2.67 metres and 2.43 metres.

Low Tide: 12:48h reaching a minimum height of 0.55 metre.

Govt withdraws further $41.6B from NRF

The Government has made its second withdrawal from the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) for 2023, intended to fund programmes under this year’s $781.9 billion budget.

On Monday, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh announced the withdrawal of US$200 million ($41.6 billion) from the fund. In accordance with the law, this sum will be transferred to the Consolidated Fund.

“It would be recalled that in February of this year, Government made its first withdrawal for the year, amounting to US$200 million equivalent to G$41.6 billion. This brings the ac-

improving its transparency and accountability and overall management of the country’s natural resource wealth.

“The PPP/C Government will continue to work ag-

LOTTERY NUMBERS

cumulated withdrawals to date in 2023 from the NRF to US$400 million, equivalent to G$83.2 billion.”

“In keeping with the NRF Act 2021, as part of the Budget 2023 process, parliamentary approval was granted for a total of US$1.002 billion to be transferred during fiscal year 2023,” the Ministry further said.

Dr Singh further reminded that when the NRF Act 2021 came into operation on January 1, 2022, this was a major step for Guyana in

gressively through sound and transformative investments of oil resources from the NRF, utilising these resources in a clear and transparent manner, to the benefit of present and future generations,” he further assured.

The first withdrawal for this year was made in February.

In December 2022, the Government had made its third withdrawal — US$207.6 million (G$43 billion) in oil funds — from the Natural Resource Fund

(NRF), which went towards financing Guyana’s national development plans.

In announcing that withdrawal, the Finance Minister had said, “It would be recalled that in May and July of this year (2022), the Government made withdrawals totalling US$400 million, equivalent to G$83 billion.

This brings the accumu-

lated withdrawals from the NRF for the year 2022 to US$607.6 million, equivalent to G$126 billion, in line with approved amount in the 2022 budget.”

In January of this year, the Bank of Guyana signed an agreement to officially hand over control of the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) to the Board of Directors appointed by the President.

According to Section 5 (6) (d) of the Act, the Board is required to enter into an operational agreement with the Bank, so that management of the Fund can change hands. This agreement was signed two days after the reading of the 2023 budget.

The funds from the NRF have their origins in the Stabroek Block – the only block currently producing oil. The block is 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometres). (G3)

Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh

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Zero tolerance

For some time now there has been an increase in press reports and viral social media videos/posts about confrontations between citizens and ranks of the Guyana Police Force.

This situation has escalated to an unprecedented level of disrespect and disregard for law enforcement officers.

The most recent of such attacks was by a businessman, who incidentally was arrested while trying to flee the country after assaulting a Police Constable.

In this instance, both the businessman and the person who assisted him in assaulting the cop have been remanded to prison. At the time, the on-duty Policeman was enforcing the law as the businessman was in breach of traffic laws.

The prevalence of assaulting a Police Officer is getting out of control, and a strong message needs to be sent to those who assault and attack cops. In the present instance, the Magistrate must be commended for refusing bail to the defendants.

Over the past year or so, there has been growing concern expressed about assaults on peace officers.

Only days ago, Commissioner of Police (ag), Clifton Hicken, in commenting on the issue of increasing attacks on Police Officers in the execution of their duties, said a zero-tolerance policy has been adopted.

In a statement coming out of Police Headquarters, it was revealed that Hicken has expressed outrage at the assault of cops and said this behaviour would not be tolerated.

On the matter of lawlessness towards the Police, Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC, who had acknowledged that while there is a lot of work to be done to repair its image as well as improve the professionalism and discipline of its ranks, the Guyana Police Force is the premier law enforcement agency in Guyana, and such actions against it cannot be condoned.

The Attorney General had made this statement after a cutlass-toting driver attacked a Policeman. “They may be bad, but it is what we have, and we cannot encourage citizens taking up arms against the law enforcement agencies. This type of conduct must be deprecated, condemned in the strongest possible fashion. When this happens, you’re striking at the very heart of Guyana as a civilised society. When the population is resisting and assaulting the law enforcement agencies, that is a serious thing.”

Like the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic (Amendment)

Bill 2022, which is aimed at toughening existing laws to prevent drunk driving and the carnage on the roadways, maybe it is time that we start to examine the possibility of implementing legislation that will see a sentencing framework which deals with perpetrators convicted of assault against public officers more harshly than those convicted of similar assaults against other individuals. Such penalty enhancements or mandatory minimum sentencing schemes for assaults against public officers may be a way to send the needed message to members of the public who are most strangely empowered to commit such acts.

To do this is easily justifiable, since law enforcement officers provide a service to others when carrying out their sworn duty to serve and protect while at risk to themselves, and this aggravates the seriousness of the offence. This must be done with two aims: deterrence, and condemnation and denunciation.

Despite the attacks on Police, most of which have occurred while they are enforcing traffic laws, it is imperative that the Police sustain their crackdown to curb the blatant breach of traffic laws, including road service licences, overloading, loud music, and disorderly behaviour by citizens.

EEPGL’s legal obligations, environmental contingent liabilities, and GAAP

Dear Editor,

Further to my letter which was published by Guyana Standard on May 6, 2023, and Guyana Times on May 7, 2023, regarding the recent High Court’s ruling in relation to the Environmental Liability (EL) matter between Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited’s (EEPGL) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). As expected, the media is overwhelmed with a plethora of opinionated letters, articles and editorials proliferating the view that the High Court’s ruling should not be appealed by the Government.

EEPGL’s legal obligation as per Condition 14 in the Environmental Permit in reference to its “financial assurance and liability for pollution and damage”, are essentially in respect of EEPGL’s and its Parent Company’s contingent liability. To this end, it must be noted that the accounting treatment and disclosure of EEPGL’s / the Parent Company’s contingent liabilities are required to be in conformity with the “Generally Accepted Accounting Principles” (GAAP) financial accounting reporting framework.

GAAP Compliance

Of note, the Parent Company of EEPGL, namely ExxonMobil, is a US multinational corporation. In the United States, the GAAP reporting framework is adopted?and therefore, companies operating in the United States rely on the guidelines established in the GAAP. Under GAAP, a contingent liability is defined as any potential future loss that depends on a “triggering event” to turn into an actual expense.

There are three codifications within the GAAP guide-

lines that US firms rely on with respect to the accounting treatment and reporting requirements for contingent liabilities. These are summarised hereunder:

1. ASC 460 Guarantees: Guarantees embody two separate obligations: the contingent obligation to make future payments under the guarantee in the event of non-performance by the party whose obligation is guaranteed, and an obligation to be ready to perform, referred to as a standby obligation, during the period that the guarantee is in effect. As a result of this bifurcation of the obligation, many guarantees are now required to be recognised as liabilities on the balance sheet. Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 460, Guarantees, consists of one subtopic: ASC 46010, Overall, which provides requirements to be met by a guarantor for certain guarantees issued and outstanding. ASC 460-10 has two subsections: General, which discusses the guarantor's recognition and disclosure of a liability at the inception of a guarantee; and product warranties. At the inception of a guarantee, the guarantor recognises a liability for both the noncontingent and contingent obligations at their fair values.

2. ASC 450 Contingencies: Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 450, Contingencies, contains guidance for reporting and disclosure of gain and loss contingencies and has three subtopics. ASC 450-10, Overall, which, along with ASC 45020 and 450-30, provides guidance on accounting and disclosures for contingencies. ASC 450-20, Loss Contingencies, which describes accounting for potential liabilities in circumstances involving uncertainties. ASC 450-30, Gain Contingencies, which de-

scribes accounting and disclosure requirements for gain contingencies. ASC 450-10-55 points out several common estimates that do not fall under the contingency guidance: depreciation, estimates used in accruals, and changes in tax law. Loss contingencies are recognized only if there is an impairment of an asset or the incurrence of a liability as of the date of the statement of financial position.

3. ASC 440: Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 440, Commitments, contains only one subtopic: ASC 44010, overall, which provides general guidance on financial accounting and reporting for certain commitments. The subtopic has two subsections: general and unconditional purchase obligation. The general subsection provides guidance for: unused letters of credit; preferred stock dividends in arrears; commitments such as those for plant acquisitions; and obligations to reduce debts, maintain working capital, or restrict dividends. The unconditional purchase obligation subsection provides guidance for unconditional purchase obligations, such as throughput and take-or-pay contracts.

ASC 440 applies to all entities and to all relevant transactions. However, for guidance on product financing arrangements, the preparer should look to ASC 470-40-15 and repurchase agreements within the scope of ASC 606-10-55-66 through 55-78. To determine the appropriate guidance, entities should determine first if an obligation is subject to the guidance on leases.

Recording

In accordance with the GAAP framework, contingent liabilities can be broken down into three categories based on the likelihood of occurrence.

The first category is the “high probability” contingency, which means that the probability of the liability arising is greater than 50% and the amount associated with it can be estimated with reasonable accuracy.

A “medium probability” contingency is one that satisfies either, but not both, of the parameters of a high probability contingency. These liabilities must be disclosed in the footnotes of the financial statements if either of the two criteria is true.

Contingent liabilities that do not fall into the categories mentioned above are considered “low probability.”

The likelihood of a cost arising due to these liabilities is extremely low and, therefore, are not required to be reported in the financial statements. However, sometimes companies include a disclosure of such liabilities.

ExxonMobil’s Contingencies as of December 31, 2022

ExxonMobil and certain of its consolidated subsidiaries were contingently liable at December 31, 2022, for guarantees relating to notes, loans, and performance under contracts. Where guarantees for environmental remediation and other similar matters do not include a stated cap, the amounts reflect management’s estimate of the maximum potential exposure. Where it is not possible to make a reasonable estimation of the maximum potential future payments, future performance is expected to be either immaterial or have only a remote chance of occurrence. As of December 31, 2022, ExxonMobil’s total contingent liabilities/guarantees amounted to US$7.46 billion (ExxonMobil’s Annual Report, 2022).

French President Emmanuel Macron lights the flame at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier under the Arc de Triomphe during ceremonies commemorating the end of World War II anniversary (Victory Day), in Paris (Reuters)

A gas pipeline to Brazil?

Dear Editor,

The Opposition has presented some unreasonable ideas to the country in the past, such as the excessive increase in taxes and the unreasonable tax burden on water and electricity that has since been reduced. They have also presented some ridiculous ideas, such as 34 being the majority of 65. The idea recently published in the letter "Gas-to-energy project can be a game-changer for the country," by the representative of the Opposition and Member of Parliament the Honourable Jermaine Figueira where he said, "the Government has already established partnerships with Brazil, which should be extended with pipelines planted to transport natural gas eventually to the South American behemoth", is a statement that is extremely questionable. A gas-to-energy pipe-

line to Brazil? The closest Brazilian city to Guyana (Lethem) is Bonfim in the state of Roraima, which is a municipality with a population in the 12,000s. Surely the honourable gentleman has not considered the astronomical cost of such a pipeline and the low demand being pursued.

Once again, in an attempt to outdo each other, the ideas around the use of our natural gas resources continue to go from bad to worse. Most recently the heat index in Thailand reached 54 degrees Celsius, and China has also recorded its lowest temperature in Heilongjiang Province of -53 degrees Celsius. This is quite an alarming trend, and one for which there is an increased desire to end it. With this desire also comes financial compensation to aid in putting an end to what many consider as a trend headed towards

an environment that will eventually become unliveable. It is important that instead of presenting and discussing ideas that are callous, irresponsible and bring further harm to the planet's environment that the Honourable Members of the National Assembly of the Parliament of Guyana focus on taking seriously Guyana's role

in the Guiana Shield. The Honourable Assembly should be presenting profitable, environmentally responsible ideas that will aid those affected by climate change while also enhancing the financial health of our nation and its citizens.

Sincerely,

Jamil Changlee

An amazing person gone

Dear Editor,

I've never judged anyone of their choice and always admire those who contribute to society. Sir Kirwyn Mars was an exceptional person, who got mixed reactions from society but successfully achieve the status as an educator.

Editor, I never got the opportunity to reach the individual, but the few videos posted of him, enlight-

en my days.

Apart from public life, everyone has a private life and it's sad to see such a gifted person’s life has been snuffed out so prematurely.

My condolences to the loved ones and I hope the perpetrator pays for his/ her actions.

Sincerely, Sahadeo Bates

EEPGL’s legal obligations...

Commentary With respect to the worstcase scenario concern, which is not to be discounted, should there be an event where the liability is in excess of the current insurance coverage and the Parent Company Guarantee, it does not necessarily translate to the country becoming exposed to this liability. In this regard, an undertaking from ExxonMobil, the Parent Company, is required, such that if the liability exceeds the insurance coverage and the Parent Company Guarantee, the Parent Company is legally obliged to honour those liabilities.

Suffice it to state, such an undertaking is already in place, inter alia, the Environmental Permit itself. In this respect, there is a clause that followed EEPGL’s affixed signature on the Permit where it states that, “EEPGL hereby accepts the above terms and conditions upon which this Environmental Permit is granted and agree to abide by the Environmental Protection Act, Cap 20:05, Laws of Guyana, the Environmental Protection (Amendment) Act, 2005, and the Environmental Protection (Authorisations) Regulations, 2000, and any existing or forthcoming regulations, best practices, guidelines and standards made under this Act”.

Condition 14.1 of the Permit states that, “the Permit Holder is liable for all costs associated with clean up, restoration and compensation for any damages caused by any discharge of any contaminant, including the cost of all investigations into pollution incidents or discharge of contaminants, conducted at the instance of Agency.” Therefore, even if

the cost exceeds the insurance coverage and guarantee amount, the Permit Holder is still liable.

The Valdez Oil Spill

It is interesting to note that proponents of the “unlimited insurance and guarantee” argument have often relied on the BP oil spill in Gulf of Mexico to substantiate their argument. The BP oil spill is considered the largest and most catastrophic environmental disasters in the history of the petroleum industry. There is an overwhelming body of literature and case studies on the BP oil spill, which according to recent studies, cost in excess of $100 billion. One study showed that there was some US$60 billion in hidden cost.

Yet, it is unfortunate that to lend proper context to the discussion, to date no reference has ever been made to the Valdez oil spill involving ExxonMobil in 1989. For the simple reason that BP and ExxonMobil are two different companies and both companies are likely to have different level of safety standards. In fact, the case studies on BP revealed that prior to the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, the quality of BP’s safety standards was highly questionable based on a historic trend of inconsistencies.

The Valdez oil spill symbolized one of the lowest points in ExxonMobil’s long history. And in contrast to the BP oil spill which was caused by an explosion on the Deepwater Horizon oil rig which occurred just over a decade ago, the Valdez oil spill was caused by an accident involving the Exxon Valdez super tanker that ran aground in Alaska’s Prince William Sound, which occurred over three decades

ago. ExxonMobil took immediate responsibility for the spill and have spent over US$4.3 billion as a result of the accident, including compensatory payments, clean up payments, settlements, and fines. ExxonMobil had voluntarily compensated more than 11,000 Alaskans and businesses within one year of the spill. Consequently, ExxonMobil undertook significant operational reforms and implemented a robust operational management system which it has deployed globally to prevent future incidents.

Key Take Aways/Summary

* The GAAP framework does not provide for “unlimited guarantee”, hence, it is for this reason that it is impracticable for ExxonMobil to provide such a guarantee. In accordance with GAAP standards, contingent liabilities of this nature (environmental liabilities), an estimate is required. Also, this type of estimation exercise is highly subjective in nature and therefore difficult to predict an accurate estimate for future liabilities arising as a result of an adverse, unforeseen event.

* Further to note is that in estimating these types of liabilities/guarantees, there could be multiple scenarios that can be simulated?giving rise to multiple estimates based on a variety of models. However, the GAAP framework provides for only a single scenario’s estimate and in practice, companies tend to use the scenario that generates the lowest estimate for those liabilities.

* An undertaking from ExxonMobil, the Parent Company, is required, such that if the liability exceeds the

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insurance coverage and the Parent Company Guarantee, the Parent Company is legally obliged to honour those liabilities. Notably, this undertaking is already obtained, viz-á-viz, the Environmental Permit.

In view of ExxonMobil’s own history dating as far back as three decades ago, the company has not been the subject of any catastrophic event such as BP in the Gulf of Mexico. This speaks to the safety standards of ExxonMobil and considering improvements with new technologies developed three decades later. This alone would render the estimate of its future environmental liability low-to-moderate. In addition, there are other stringent measures being put in place in the case of Guyana, such as the capping stack to further minimize the impact of any unforeseen environmental damages that may occur.

With that in mind, it is unreasonable and imprudent to reference the Gulf of Mexico oil spill event of 2010 that did not involve ExxonMobil, as the benchmark to estimate the future liability in the case of Guyana.

Finally, based on the foregoing discussion and analysis which extends on the contentions highlighted in this author’s previous letter, with the recent Agreement for the Parent Company Guarantee of US$2 billion together with the insurance coverage, and the acceptance of the terms and conditions of the Environmental Permit, it can be safely concluded that EEPGL and its Co-ventures are in compliance with the terms and conditions therein.

Yours sincerely, Joel Bhagwandin

CXC Questions: Maths

Dulce et Decorum Est

By Wilfred OWen

Bent double, like old beggars under sacks, Knock-kneed, coughing like hags, we cursed through sludge, Till on the haunting flares we turned our backs, And towards our distant rest began to trudge. Men marched asleep. Many had lost their boots, But limped on, blood-shod. All went lame; all blind; Drunk with fatigue; deaf even to the hoots Of gas-shells dropping softly behind.

Gas! GAS! Quick, boys!—An ecstasy of fumbling Fitting the clumsy helmets just in time, But someone still was yelling out and stumbling And flound’ring like a man in fire or lime.— Dim through the misty panes and thick green light, As under a green sea, I saw him drowning.

In all my dreams before my helpless sight, He plunges at me, guttering, choking, drowning.

If in some smothering dreams, you too could pace Behind the wagon that we flung him in, And watch the white eyes writhing in his face, His hanging face, like a devil’s sick of sin; If you could hear, at every jolt, the blood Come gargling from the froth-corrupted lungs, Obscene as cancer, bitter as the cud Of vile, incurable sores on innocent tongues,— My friend, you would not tell with such high zest To children ardent for some desperate glory, The old Lie: Dulce et decorum est Pro patria mori.

Questions: What type of poem is it? What is it all about? How did you know what it was about?

WORD SEARCH

Stabbed, then crushed by car: longstanding educator brutally murdered

As a result of the location of the vehicle on Mars’s body, firefighters were summoned to the scene to remove the car.

Investigators found that the victim received lacerations to the face, head, hand, shoulder, forehead, above the left eye, right side chest, and back.

His body was taken to the Memorial Garden Funeral Home.

Speaking with this publication on Monday, Kester Mars, the brother of the teacher, said when he received the call informing him of his brother’s death, he initially thought that the caller had dialled the wrong number.

Police are investigating the brutal attack and murder of 51-year-old Kirwyn Sean Mars popularly known as “Sir Mars” whose body was found pinned under his car at Plantation Providence, East Bank Demerara.

Reports are that Mars of Lot 211 New Settlers Street, Mocha, East Bank Demerara, was found at about 22:30h on Sunday after an altercation with a man inside his car.

According to reports, the Deputy Head Master at the New Central High School was involved in an alterca-

tion in his car with a male and they were both armed with knives and injured each other.

This publication was told that Mars, who was the owner of the grey Mitsubishi RVR vehicle, PZZ-6438, exited the vehicle and was standing when the suspect reversed the vehicle and pinned him near a fence at the Plantation Providence, EBD location.

The injured suspect then made good his escape.

Residents in the area contacted the Police, who arrived at the scene, but by then Mars had already died.

“I thought he dialled a wrong number and he probably got on to me, and about five minutes after some persons came to my residence and told me that my brother got murdered in Providence. So, I went over there and called the Police. When I went over there, I saw him under his vehicle, both wheels off the ground, one was rested on him and the engine was still running and the driver door was open,” the grieving brother said.

He further revealed he had no knowledge where his brother went on Sunday, adding that the last time he saw him was on Friday when they met up to have a meal. He, however, said that he spoke to his brother via telephone on Sunday

evening.

“He didn’t tell me where he was going [or] where he went, he just called [and] I overheard him having a conversation with somebody, he was saying ‘come in the car’ [and] the person was saying ‘you call somebody, you call somebody’ and I thought he dialled a wrong number… but that was it,” Kester explained.

His family revealed he

was a jolly soul who could liven up the room and bring a smile to those who needed it.

As news of Mars’s death spread, persons took to social media to express their shock even as they remembered his work and life as a teacher.

Meanwhile, the Education Ministry in a statement said: “The Ministry of Education is saddened at the passing of Sir

Kirwyn Mars, who served as Deputy Head Master at the New Central High School up until the time of his death. Mr Mars made significant contributions to the Education sector and the Arts. He will be greatly missed. The Ministry of Education expresses sympathy to the family and friends of Sir Mars during this difficult time. May he rest in peace.”

Dead: 51-year-old Kirwyn Sean Mars popularly known as “Sir Mars”

Kirwyn Sean Mars’s car at the scene of the crime

Duo slapped with slew of charges after assault on cop, remanded …businessman nabbed attempting to leave country

Who else...

…arrived??

So, now that “Arrival Day” has come and gone, maybe we can all look back at what the fuss was all about on whether it should actually be “Indian Arrival Day” or not. Now it’s true that other groups “arrived” – many more than you think! Did you know that Englishmen, Maltese, Americans, West Indians, Africans and Germans were tried out – in addition to the Portuguese, Indians, and Chinese we know about?? So, your Eyewitness presumed that not to offend their sensibilities the PPP Government didn’t want to focus only on the Indians.

Abusinessman, who was arrested while attempting to flee to neighbouring Suriname and a labourer have been remanded to prison on a slew of charges after publicly assaulting a Policeman.

Forty-one-year-old businessman Mark Cromwell called “Demon” of Lot 40 Vigilance, East Coast Demerara (ECD), and Kessee Edwards, 30, of Lot 62 Friendship, ECD, were charged with assault with intent to prevent lawful apprehension, abusive language, and disorderly behaviour.

They committed these offences against Constable Harlequin on May 5 in the vicinity of MovieTowne at Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown.

Both of them appeared on Monday before Magistrate Ruschelle Liverpool at the Sparendaam Magistrates’ Courts.

In addition, Edwards also faced charges for seven traffic offences.

These include dangerous driving; leaving motor vehicle in a dangerous position; driving an unlicensed motor vehicle; driving an uncertified vehicle; failing

to comply with Police direction; prohibition of tinted glass and failing to wear seatbelt.

Edwards was the first to be arraigned. Police act-

ing on information arrested Cromwell at the Eugene F Correia International Airport on Monday, just before he boarded a flight to Suriname.

He was then hauled before the court.

The matters have been adjourned until May 17.

Police stated that Constable Harlequin, and another rank were performing traffic duties at the Plaisance Railway Embankment, East Coast Demerara (ECD), when they intercepted a heavily tinted vehicle driven by Edwards, with Cromwell as a passenger.

As Constable Harlequin approached Edwards and informed him of the traffic offences, he refused to comply with the officer’s request to take his vehicle to the Sparendaam Police Station for inspection. Instead, Edwards sped off, and the officers pursued him.

Eventually, the vehicle was intercepted in the vicinity of MovieTowne.

The situation escalated when Edwards approached the officer and started hurling expletives towards him. The officer retaliated by making attempts to arrest Edwards, but Edwards and Cromwell attacked and started to assault the peace officer.

Public-spirited citizens who witnessed the incident intervened, and one man, who was later identified as an ex-Police officer, confronted the assailants. Edwards was eventually arrested and taken into custody at the Sparendaam Police Station.

The ordeal was video recorded and shared on social media.

But in moving around and reading the reports, it doesn’t seem that a single member of those groups took time to commemorate their arrival. After all the trouble the PPP took to make them feel part of the family!! Just the Indians came out – as they’ve done since the sixties. Gotta be a reason for that, no?? Your Eyewitness can understand the Germans, Americans, Maltese and Englishmen – they amounted to just hundreds and never had an impact. The Maltese, for instance, had to be sent back!!

Now we also know the West Indians and Africans blended into the local freed African community very quickly! They did so to such an extent very few of them even know they came from elsewhere – AFTER emancipation!! But how about the Portuguese and Chinese?? What’s their excuse?? Could it be they resent being lumped with the Indians on THEIR day of arrival?? Maybe your Eyewitness should conduct a survey!!

But the Portuguese first arrived from Madeira on May 3, 1835 – three years before the Indians. So maybe they’re miffed THEIR day wasn’t picked as the holiday, since being FIRST is a big thing in Guyana!! As it ought to be!! Or is it because the Brits rejected them and didn’t even recognise them as “Europeans”, they don’t want to be reminded of their indentured beginnings??

But they got nothing to be ashamed of in that department. More than any other group, they died like flies, but yet persevered and very quickly prospered!! They’re the ones who pioneered that unique Guyanese institution – rum shops – across the land!! Your Eyewitness has a suggestion, since it appears the PPP has dug in their heels on the Arrival Day moniker. Maybe the THEME for the day can be changed annually in the sequence of arrival – Portuguese, West Indian, African, Indian and then Chinese??

We can go further and have a specific dish for each year to go with the designation, say, Garlic Pork followed by Conkie, Foo Foo, Curry, and Lo Mein!! We can continue with other cultural features like clothing, etc.

And before you know it, we’ll be so integrated, we wouldn’t even have to be reminded we’re “One Guyana”!! …but the PPP?

Looking at the PPP and PNC going about their (political) business in the last week, your Eyewitness’s mind was cast back to his school days (daze?). Brutus had just remarked to Cassius on cheers in the background probably signalling yet another honour on the Emperor Caesar. Replied Cassius, “Why, man, he doth bestride the narrow world/ Like a Colossus, and we petty men/ Walk under his huge legs and peep about/ To find ourselves dishonourable graves.”

It doth seem that nowadays the PPP is a colossus under whose legs the PNC has to creep around!! The point is the PNC’s been unable to seize the initiative from the PPP –even though there are so many issues to be seized. The Exxon insurance issue and the Press Freedom issue are much too esoteric for the average voter.

However, there’s the phenomenal increase in the cost of living. But where’s the sustained messaging on how they can resolve it and at least gain some traction??

Get real, PNC!!

…but the US

Looking at the Guyanese meeting Pres Ali on his trip to Charles III’s coronation, your Eyewitness was struck at how obviously less prosperous they are compared to their US counterparts.

The USA’s still the land of opportunity!!

Constable Harlequin being attacked by the two men

Remanded: Kessee Edwards

ExxonMobil partner signals intent to submit Whiptail FDP later this year

…over 370,000 bpd produced by Liza Phase 1 & 2 in 1st quarter

Hess Corporation, ExxonMobil’s partner in the Stabroek Block, has signalled the joint venturer’s intent to have the Field Development Plan (FDP) for its sixth project, Whiptail, submitted later this year for governmental approval.

In the 2023 budget, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government had set aside $100.7 million to review the Whiptail Field Development Plan (FDP) when it is submitted. This decision lines up well with Exxon’s timetable to submit the Whiptail FDP, which, according to Hess Corporation, is later this year.

“A plan of development for our sixth development, Whiptail, is expected to be submitted to Government for regulator and Government approvals later this year,” Hess Corp Chief Operating Officer (COO) Greg Hill said while giving updates on his company during a recent conference call.

The Whiptail discovery is located approximately 4 miles southeast of the Uaru-1 discovery. It will be ExxonMobil and its coventurers’ sixth project in the

Stabroek Block. Whiptail is expected to target 40-65 development wells, with production levels expected between 220,000 and 275,000 barrels of oil per day (bpd).

First oil is expected from this project between the fourth quarter of 2027 and the second quarter of 2028.

Hill also provided details on past and future developments in Guyana’s waters, from the first Liza Development which is presently producing over 200,000 barrels of oil per day, up to the planned fifth development, Uaru, which recently received Government approval.

“We have the potential

for up to 10 FPSOs to develop the discovered resources on the Block. The Liza Phase One and Two developments produced an average of approximately 375,000 gross barrels of oil per day in the first quarter. The FPSO for our third sanctioned development, Payara, arrived

on the Stabroek Block [last month] ahead of schedule.”

“And is targeted to start up early in the fourth quarter with a gross production capacity of approximately 220,000 barrels of oil per day. The fourth sanctioned development, Yellowtail, is expected to come online in 2025, with a gross production capacity of approximately 250,000 barrels of oil per day,” the COO further said.

An FDP outlines how an oil company plans to develop the oil field while also mitigating environmental damage. United Kingdom (UK) company Bayphase Limited reviewed the last FDP for ExxonMobil’s fourth project – the US$9 billion Yellowtail Project.

Guyana, with US oil giant ExxonMobil as the oper-

ator, began producing oil on December 20, 2019, in the Stabroek Block. Guyana’s oil revenues are being held in the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) at the New York Federal Reserve Bank, where it is earning interest.

The oil rich Stabroek Block, which is producing the oil, is 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometres).

Exxon, through its local subsidiary Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), is the operator and holds 45 per cent interest in the Block.

Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd holds 30 per cent interest, and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CNOOC Limited, holds the remaining 25 per cent interest.

ExxonMobil has said it

anticipates at least six projects offshore Guyana will be online by 2027. Production has already started in the second phase, with the Liza Unity FPSO vessel in operation.

The third project –the Payara Development – will target an estimated resource base of about 600 million oil-equivalent barrels, and was at one point considered to be the largest single planned investment in the history of Guyana.

Meanwhile, the Yellowtail development, which will be oil giant ExxonMobil’s fourth development in Guyana’s waters, will target a mammoth 250,000 bpd. ExxonMobil also received approval for Uaru, its fifth project in Guyana’s waters, only last week. (G9)

Hess Corp Chief Operating Officer Greg Hill

Guyana lost over US$1 trillion with graduates migrating – UG Vice Chancellor

…says urgent attention on repatriation, immigrants needed in ‘hyper-development’ era

The migration of graduates after they would have completed studies in Guyana has come with a hefty loss of over US$1 trillion, as they move to build other countries.

At the University of Guyana’s 2nd Diaspora Conference on Monday, Vice Chancellor, Professor Paloma Mohamed-Martin provided an analysis, suggesting that in its 60 years of existence, the institution would have produced more than 50,000 graduates.

At least 30 per cent from the upper and middle socioeconomic layers of Guyanese diaspora, to which she added that Guyanese natives have made many countries great.

“Given the Statesubsidised nature of the University, it’s funding is estimated in both terms of direct costs and opportunity costs that Guyana might have lost over US$1 trillion through the immigration of our graduates to other countries, mostly to North America and the

Caribbean,” the professor underscored.

Professor MohamedMartin reiterated that diaspora engagements are not just to bring people back home but to calculate what it has cost the country in

such cases.

According to her, the nuances of these dynamics require urgent attention as well as studies on transnational issues and the role of the diaspora in academia, training and development.

“This underscores the past call and urgent and dire need for an organised study of the diaspora at the University of Guyana since the complexity presented by multiple diasporas who are from Guyana is quite particular and peculiar.” She added, “As Guyana enters into a special phase of what I’d like to term hyper

development and we are beginning to confront the matters of repatriation as well as immigration by diverse groups of non-Guyanese… this is a new problem requiring urgent attention.”

Recent reports, Mohamed-Martin zeroed in, suggest that Guyana has the largest per capita diaspora in the world, with three times more Guyanese living outside of the country than within its borders. She opined that their achievements and actions have had significant impact on Guyana and their host countries.

The Vice Chancellor examined, “For instance, it is reported that remittances back to Guyana in 2019 have been in the vicinity of US$2.6 billion and foreign direct investment, a further US$1.6 billion. The aggressive business agenda of the present Government of Guyana have tracked new projects, which alone have exceeded in 2022, all of the two numbers combined.”

The conference focused on the imbedded power of diasporas, and more importantly, the ability of the Guyanese diaspora to foster resilience,

innovation, cultural diffusion, and transformation. Robust discussions on a proposed centre for diaspora study is expected to be a key outcome from this event.

Head of the Diaspora Unit under the Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ministry, Rosalinda Rasul said Government has created an environment for persons in the diaspora to benefit from the opportunities unfolding.

Statistics have pointed to many persons seeking to obtain a Guyanese passport and applications to obtain a house lot in Guyana, she divulged.

“One only needs to look at the statistics, the number of passport applications for the diaspora, the number of birth certificates being renewed for the first-generation diaspora; the number of registration of births for second generation diaspora; the number of remigration applications made at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the number of house lot applications being made by overseas and returning Guyanese,” Rasul disclosed. (G12)

Duo slapped with slew...

Zero-tolerance

In light of the increasing attacks on Police officers while they are executing their duties, acting Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken has expressed the Police Force’s zero-tolerance for unprovoked attacks on ranks.

He made it clear that the Police Force will not tolerate any such behaviour, and will take appropriate action against anyone who assaults Police officers while performing their duties.

“Commissioner of Police Mr Clifton Hicken has expressed outrage at the assault and said this behaviour would not be tolerated, and anyone who feels they can assault and

attack the Police while carrying out their sworn duty to serve and protect will face the full brunt of the law,” a statement from Police Headquarters said.

Meanwhile, the Top Cop is asking the general public to continue assisting officers as they aim to maintain law and order.

In addition, Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) and APNU’s Shadow Home Affairs Minister, Attorneyat-Law Geeta ChandanEdmond has also condemned the abhorrent and abominable conduct of the two civilians and said she has examined attempts to defend this action by the perpetrators.

“I have taken note of the content of the video re-

cording and the subsequent release from the Guyana Police Force in relation to this incident… civilians are required and urged to respect members of the armed forces who are discharging their duties within the confines of the law. Similarly, Police ranks are required to execute their duties within the confines of the law.” She further reminded civilians that in instances where ranks act contrary to the provisions of law, there are mechanisms for recourse.

“First, we should comply and then complain. I trust the Guyana Police Force will ensure that there is maximum accountability consistent with the law.” (G1)

Diaspora Unit Head Rosalinda Rasul (first from left) and Professor Paloma Mohamed-Martin (fourth from right) with British High Commissioner Jane Miller; Indian High Commissioner, Dr KJ Srinivasa and other stakeholders

Essequibo Coast pedestrian struck by speeding driver

An Essequibo Coast, Region

Two (PomeroonSupenaam) man was killed on Sunday evening when a motor car slammed into him while he was crossing the Adventure Public Road, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam).

Dead is 52-year-old Budhidra Koosiall also known as “Dumb Bai”, of Adventure village. The accident occurred about 19:50h.

It is alleged that Koosiall, who was a mechanic, and who also had a speech impairment, was intoxicated at the time of the accident.

According to information reaching Guyana Times, the accident involved a silver motor car, PSS 150, which was driven by a 41-year-old of Lima Sands, Essequibo Coast. The driver of that motor car is an ambulance driver attached to the Oscar Joseph Hospital, Charity.

An eyewitness related that, “I was on the road when a set of man along

with Dumb Bai bin ah drink in front we front neighbour and is come I come home and then hear a loud impact. When I come out, I see Dumb Bai on the road lay down and the car there. When them man raise up he, he head spin around, so I suspect like he hit his neck causing it to break.”

Meanwhile, Police in a statement said that motor

Alpha Hotel murder

car PSS 150 was proceeding south on the eastern drive lane at a fast rate of speed when the driver alleged that he observed, from a distance, a pedestrian walking from the western side of the public road and heading to the eastern side.

The driver alleged that upon seeing the pedestrian, he attempted to avoid a collision, but nonetheless, the right front-side of the car hit Koosiall, which caused him to fall on the front windscreen and then onto the road.

Koosiall received injuries on his body and was picked up in an unconscious condition by the driver and other public-spirited citizens and transported to the Suddie Public Hospital. He was pronounced dead on arrival. The body was later transported to Suddie Mortuary awaiting post-mortem examination.

The driver was arrested and is in custody, assisting with the investigation.

Woman died from multiple wounds – PME

Apost-mortem examination conducted on Kim Halley, who was murdered by her husband at Alpha Hotel on the East Coast of Demerara, has found that she died from multiple incised wounds.

The autopsy was performed at about 08:15h on Monday at the Georgetown Public Hospital’s Mortuary.

It was conducted by Government pathologist Dr Nehaul Singh in the presence of a Police rank. The woman was identified by her 24-year-old son, and her sister, 44-year-old Gail Harris.

“The cause of death was given as multiple incised wounds. The body was handed over to relatives for burial,” the Guyana Police Force said in a report.

It was reported that the woman’s lifeless body was discovered last Thursday in Room 235 of the Alpha Hotel on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD). Clad in a black bra and a pair of blue short pants, the body was

facing upwards and lying in a pool of blood, with at least 13 stab wounds and a slit throat.

A black-handled knife without a blade was found next to the woman’s body on the bed, while the blade was found in the dead woman’s hair, covered in blood.

Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum on Sunday told Guyana Times that despite

being separated for several months, the suspect and the victim, Kim Halley, meet once a week at the hotel to spend “quality time” together.

He explained that on the day in question, the suspect requested that the woman inform their children that everything was okay between them and that they had reconciled. But the woman was reluctant to heed to man’s request thus an argument ensued between them which ultimately turned deadly.

According to Blanhum, the businessman of Mahaicony, ECD, during the argument, whipped out a knife and fatally stabbed the woman.

After committing the crime, he reportedly joined a minibus and went to the seawall where he offered a “junkie” $1000 for his shirt. At the time, his shirt was soaked with blood. Upon getting the shirt, he went to the Police Officers’ Training Complex where he surrendered.

Dead: Kim Halley

Police at the scene of the accident

Dead: Budhidra Koosiall

MoU signed with Indian firm to commence millet cultivation in Guyana

The Agriculture Ministry has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with India-based UPL Limited, paving the way for trials to commence for the cultivation of millets.

The undertaking will see UPL Limited providing technological and agriculture inputs while the Government through the Agriculture Ministry will assist with developing approximately 200 acres for the cultivation of millets.

Millets are a highly varied group of small-seeded grasses, widely grown around the world as cereal crops or grains for fodder and human food.

During the signing, Mustapha said Guyana was pleased to commence trials for millet cultivation. He noted that Guyana was leading the agriculture agenda in Caricom in keeping with the Region’s Vision 25 by 2025 and that millets would contribute significantly to those efforts.

Last March, Mustapha visited India and participated in a round-table discussion at the Global Millet Conference with his Indian counterpart Narendra Singh, and other Ministers

from across the world. Discussions circled on fostering millets production in countries like Guyana to increase food security.

Prior to that, President Dr Irfaan Ali during a virtual address at the Inauguration of the Global Millet Conference in New Delhi, India, disclosed that Guyana will soon commence cultivation trials for millets production in Regions Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), and 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) to support the transition to largescale production of the seed locally.

In his address, the Head of State noted that the production of millet will help support poverty reduction efforts in the Region and that the areas earmarked for the trials represent the profit zone in which similar crops like corn and soya are adaptive and being produced on a large scale.

“Guyana looks forward to strengthening its cooperation with India to kickstart large, medium, and small-scale production of millets. India is the largest millet producer in the world, and through collaboration, Guyana hopes to embark

soon on the sustainable production of millets,” the Head of State had said.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had lobbied the UN to declare the year 2023 as the International Year of Millet.

The first crops of millets were cultivated in Asia and Africa, later spreading as an important food source for advanced civilisations around the world. With these two continents considered the production and consumption centres for millet crops, the major producers of the grain are India, Niger, Sudan, and Nigeria.

Due to the low glycaemic index (GI) being gluten-free, it helps in a slower release of glucose over a longer period of time thus reducing the risk of diabetes mellitus. Millets are rich sources of minerals like calcium, iron, zinc, phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium. It also contains appreciable amounts of dietary fibre and vitamins such as folic acid, vitamin B6, beta-carotene, and niacin. The availability of high amounts of lecithin is useful for strengthening the nervous system. Therefore, regular consumption of millets can help to overcome malnutrition. (G12)

3 years in jail for man who stole from church

Shawn Persaud called “Shawn Yhap”, a 47-year-old man of Lot 67 Pike Street, Kitty, Georgetown, who was previously sentenced to four years’ imprisonment for break and enter and larceny, has been sent to jail again for stealing two amplifiers from a church.

A three-year prison sentence was imposed on him last week when he appeared before Magistrate Ruschelle Liverpool at the Sparendaam Magistrates’ Courts.

Particulars of the charge to which he pleaded guilty, stated that between

January 24 and 25, 2022, he broke into the Full-life New Testament Church of God at Lot 118 Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara (ECD), and stole two amplifiers valued at $680,000.

Police Prosecutor Sergeant Visram Ramjattan, in narrating the facts, said that on Sunday, January 23, 2022, Persaud and a wom an went to the church seek ing assistance, claiming that they had lost everything in a house fire.

As such, they received help in the form of clothing and other items from church members. On January 24, 2022, members of the church secured the premis es and left.

Minister Zulfikar Mustapha and an official from UPL Limited signing the MoU for millet trials in Guyana

Guyanese, Cuban travel companies partner to boost tourism

Cinnabon set to enter Guyanese market with signature treats

As part of an initiative to enhance intra-regional cooperation in the Caribbean, Guyanese and Cuban travel companies have entered into a number Memoranda of Understanding to formally embark in alliances for the future growth of tourism.

Global Tours and Travel (GlobalTT), a journey and destination management company that is headquartered in Georgetown, has been holding several meetings with major tourism stakeholders in the Republic of Cuba.

Cubatur Agencia de Viajes, Havanatur SA, Paradiso, the Cubanacan Group and Grupo de Turismo Gaviota has formally entered into agreements to allow GlobalTT to offer special business and leisure travel packages and options to Guyanese and businesspersons seeking to

visit Cuba.

Currently in Cuba is Director of Caribbean Leisure Travel for GlobalTT, Pedro Pablo Martínez Azcuy, who has been representing the company in its bilateral discussions and negotiations with the Cuban companies for the promotion of “Destination Cuba” in Guyana.

“Connectivity, promotions, multi destination packages and deeper cooperation between Guyana and the Cuba tourism entities featured predominantly during their discussions,” a press release indicated.

Global Tours and Travel has also formed a strategic partnership with Caribbean Airlines Limited (CAL) which allows for seamless and convenient air connectivity between Guyana and Cuba and other Caribbean territories. The affiliation between these companies

with their multi-destination plans are all a part of the push to align the tourist sector with regional integration and development.

On a mission to make Caribbean vacations more appealing to Guyanese travellers and expatriates who live and work in Guyana, GlobalTT will be offering special multi destination vacation packages to Cuba in combination with other Caribbean ports of call including St Lucia, Barbados and Jamaica.

The packaged tours and all-inclusive vacations will be complete end-to-end travel solutions including airfares, hotel accommodations, ground transportation, auto rentals, tours and access to executive airport lounges, and will cater to solo travel, adventure tourism, romantic holidays, educational trips, health tourism and group tours. (G12)

World-renowned bakery chain Cinnabon is preparing to open the doors of its first location at the Giftland Mall, bringing signature goodies and beverages to locals.

The Giftland Mall location will offer a wide range of Cinnabon’s beloved menu items, including its classic cinnamon rolls, as well as a variety of other baked goods, hot and cold drinks, and specialty treats.

In a release, it was announced, “The world-renowned bakery chain, known for its cinnamon rolls, will bring its signature treats and beverages to locals and visitors alike, offering a tasty new option for dessert and snack lovers.”

A representative for

Cinnabon Guyana expressed, “We’re excited to bring the delicious taste of Cinnabon to Guyana and to join the vibrant community of the Giftland Mall…We can’t wait to introduce our signature cinnamon rolls and other baked goods to the people of Guyana and to become a go-to destination for sweet treats and snacks.”

Cinnabon Guyana said it is committed to providing a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for all guests. The new location will feature modern decor and friendly staff, creating a cosy and inviting environment for customers to enjoy their treats.

More information on Cinnabon Guyana can be accessed at the company’s

Facebook & Instagram @cinnabonguyana where followers will be among the first to receive updates on their menu, special promotions, and other exciting news about their upcoming opening at the Giftland Mall.

Cinnabon is an American chain of baked goods stores and kiosks and the company’s signature item is the famous cinnamon roll. It has over 1000 locations across the world.

With development taking place rapidly in Guyana, new chains are planting their investments in the local economy. The most recent company to create a rave was Starbucks, which opened its first location at the Amazonia Mall a few days ago.

Officials of Caribbean Leisure Travel for GlobalTT in discussions with officials of Paradiso Cultural Tourism

Ruling on insurance coverage

Deadlines imposed by court being carefully observed – EPA Director …as

entity considers way forward

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which was recently the subject of a court ruling that said the agency had to order ExxonMobil to provide an unlimited Parent Company Guarantee for its Stabroek operations, will carefully consider the way forward in light of the ruling.

This is according to EPA Executive Director Kemraj Parsaram, in an exclusive interview with this publication. According to Parsaram, the EPA has taken note of the ruling and will be considering its options.

“The ruling is what it is… we are considering our next steps, in terms of how we proceed with the orders of the court. And we note the deadlines placed in the orders,” Parsaram said. Outside of the ruling, however, Parsaram assured that the agency generally continues to execute its duties in a professional manner.

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, SC, has already indicated the Government’s intention, as a major stakeholder, to move in the direction of an appeal. He had insisted that the Environmental Permit imposes no obligation on the Permit Holder to provide an unlimited Parent Company Guarantee Agreement and/or Affiliate Company Guarantee Agreement.

Hence, Nandlall had contended the Judge erred in his findings. The AG, too, pointed out that this ruling can have profound ramifications and grave economic as well

as other impacts on the public interest and national development.

In September 2022, the President of the Transparency Institute of Guyana Inc (TIGI), Fredericks Collins, and Guyanese citizen Godfrey Whyte had moved to the court to get the EPA to implement the liability clause in the permit issued to ExxonMobil (Guyana) for its operations.

They wanted the court to ensure Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) takes full financial accountability in the case of harm, loss, and damage to the environment from a well blowout, oil spill, or other failures in the Stabroek Block.

On the issue of whether the EPA acted in breach of its statutory duty and unreasonably permitted Esso

to carry out petroleum production operations in the absence of compliance with the terms of the permit, Justice Sandil Kissoon ruled that the EPA has committed an illegality, acted unlawfully, ultra vires, unreasonably, in defiance of logic, irrationally, and without any jurisdiction.

Hence, the court ordered that the agency issues the Enforcement Notice to EEPGL on or before May 9 to provide an unlimited Parent Company Guarantee Agreement and/or unlimited liability Affiliate Company Guarantee, and failure to do so would result in the suspension of its Environmental Permit.

But during a press conference last week, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo had maintained that EPA has to be able to professionally justify its work without any interference or any rush to complete its work within a set timeline that can pressure the agency.

In fact, he pointed out the EPA has been engaging the oil major over the past year on the parent guarantee. Those negotiations, according to the Vice President, were only concluded last week to the tune of US$2 billion in liability coverage in compliance with EEPGL’s financial assurance obligations under the Environmental Permit and the Environmental Protection Act.

“I’ve said about a month ago that it was close to finishing, and last week I said that the agreement has practically been settled for US$2 billion of the parent guaran-

tee… But the EPA has been working… nobody wants this more. I would’ve loved for Exxon to give us a US$500 billion coverage but for them to offer us a guarantee, it has to be supported by money on their balance sheets too.”

“I think a lot of things were not understood clearly and sometimes it gets a bit

complex. Here, this decision needs to be appealed by the EPA because it makes the EPA looks like it’s not doing its work. The EPA is staffed with professionals and it’s been doing its work, protecting the interest of the country.”

“My own thing is the Judiciary can interpret may-

be several issues… But I think it’s threading on mirky waters when you start directing a regulatory agency as to how to do its own job and give them a timeframe to get it done in because you can’t supplant yourself and know what the challenges they face are,” VP Jagdeo had further posited. (G3)

Teen among 2 charged for handyman’s murder

They were not required to plead to the indictable charge which stated that on April 29 at New Road, Vreed-en-Hoop, West Coast Demerara (WCD), they murdered Wafad Wahab, 45.

The two murder accused were remanded to prison and the case will continue on May 29.

Police Headquarters reported that Wahab, a handyman also known as “Ricky”, of Lot 6 Harlem, WCD, was reportedly attacked in the vicinity of Strikey’s Bar along New Road, Vreed-enHoop.

Two persons, including a 17-year-old boy, appeared in court on Monday on a joint charge for the capital offence of murder over the death of a handyman.

Ronaldo Warnauth, a 21-year-old construction worker, and the teen, both of Phoenix Park Squatting Area, West Bank Demerara (WBD), were brought before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Vreed-enHoop Magistrate’s Court.

The man was allegedly attacked and beaten by three males and later succumbed to his injuries at the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH).

Police said that Wahab was under the influence of alcohol when he visited his aunt in Vreed-en-Hoop on the evening of Saturday, April 29, but was urged to return home due to his drunken state. However, later that evening, the Police received a report that an injured man was lying on the street in Vreed-en-Hoop, and upon arriving at the scene, they

Dead: Wafad Wahab

observed the man covered in blood.

At the time, a Samsung cell phone and $1040 in cash were found in Wahab’s pocket.

He was picked up and taken to the hospital, where he died while receiving treatment.

An eyewitness subsequently told Police that Wahab was attacked and beaten by three men, who fled the scene on bicycles. (G1)

3 years in jail for man...

But when they returned the following day, they observed that the church had been broken into and the amplifiers missing.

Persons in the neighbourhood informed the church members that they saw a man and a woman, both with haversacks on their backs, leaving the church yard on January 25, 2022.

A report was made to the Police and on July 4,

2022, Persaud was pointed out by persons in the village as the man who was seen leaving the church with a backpack.

When arrested by the Police and cautioned, Persaud admitted to breaking into the place of worship and stealing the items.

This is not the first time he has been in trouble with the law.

In fact, in October of last year, he was sentenced

FROM PAGE 12

to four years in prison on two counts of break and enter and larceny when he appeared at the Sparendaam Magistrates’ Courts.

He committed the offences on October 12, 2022, on the homes of Pricillia Ramcharran and Diana Agrippa. He was sentenced after pleading guilty to both charges.

The two two-year jail sentences were ordered to run consecutively. (G1)

Murder accused: Ronaldo Warnauth

EPA Executive Director Kemraj Parsaram

The High Court

– Agri Minister on state of drainage maintained by M&CC …as

Council.

“What I found is very disappointing because it seems that the city council have not been doing any work whatsoever in these areas. The interlocking drains and the small drains that they had to do work on, those drains have been neglected for a number of years and that is why when you look at the sluices and the pumps, we are not getting the water coming out from these areas to go to the sluices and pumps, because the drains are clogged and blocked,” the Minister remarked.

has always been a major issue that needed to be addressed.

Drainage problems and keeping waterways clear of debris were the major issues raised on Monday when Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha conducted a walkabout in West

the residents to do the internal cleaning, the manual cleaning and they will also execute maintenance work over the next few months, so that we can keep it in a way whenever there’s heavy rainfall, the water at least

area, the drainage is very deplorable. We have earmarked some of the drainage work that we’ll be doing immediately, within another two weeks from now, we’ll see work commence here. We’ll also engage the residents to do the manual cleaning and where there [is] need for mechanical cleaning we will have machine come in to do these works,” the Minister shared.

Meanwhile, Mustapha

He highlighted that the area is highly vulnerable to flooding and as a result, the Ministry will be continuously engaging residents to maintain the drainage system, for which they will be renumerated.

“These areas are very vulnerable [to] flooding and what I promise to do… we’ll continue, not only now, this will be a continuous process. From the NDIA level/Ministry of Agriculture we will be looking to do the entire drainage system to clear it, to have it in a way that water can run off the land and run from the drain, easily to the pumps,” the

“Living in the area the drainage system has been very bad, not only that our community centre have been neglected for quite a long time. It’s a pleasure, the people in the communi-

“What I like…is the quick intervention where things are happening. You can talk to the Minister and immediately he’s here. He’s here… so that we can do a complete assessment of the drainage system in this constituency so I’m really happy about that and the changes that

Ruimveldt, Georgetown, following heavy downpours.

Speaking with residents, Mustapha said the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) will soon be awarding contracts to persons in the various communities to do internal cleaning.

“The NDIA will be awarding these works to

could reach at the pump and the sluices so that we can drain the area.”

The Minister further added that already, several areas were earmarked within the community to do drainage work, which is set to commence within the next two weeks.

“We are looking at the drainage system within the

also expressed disappointment after seeing the condition of drains which were supposed to be maintained by the Georgetown City

Minister explained.

A resident from the area said that she has been residing in the community for some 31 years and drainage

ty…are very proud. They’re glad that the Minister came into the area to take a look at the drainage and everything else. I’m very pleased and I’m glad that that happened and I…will be looking forward to seeing Minister within this area,” the resident said.

Additionally, Councillor for the East and West Ruimveldt and Layne Avenue constituency, Trichria Richards shared that she is proud of the Government’s swift interventions to provide relief to residents.

we’re seeing,” Richards remarked.

Over the past few weeks, Minister Mustapha has visited several communities across the country to find out about problems affecting residents and provide solutions to those problems. During his visit on Monday, he noted that he will also be encouraging his colleagues Public Works Minister Juan Edghill, and Local Government Minister Nigel Dharamlall to visit the community and make the necessary interventions where needed.

3 remanded for murder at National Psychiatric Hospital

They are accused of killing 32-year-old Dinesh Persaud of Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice (WCB), who was only an inmate of the institution for two days prior to his demise.

On Monday, the trio appeared at the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Renita Singh.

It is alleged that on April 19, they murdered Persaud at the National Psychiatric Hospital.

tigation and asked for six weeks to seek additional legal advice.

The three were remanded and the case will continue on June 12 when the court will decide the way forward.

It had been reported that on April 19, the lifeless body of Persaud was taken to the New Amsterdam Hospital and dumped with no information being provided by personnel from the psychiatric facility.

Three persons, who have allegedly been suffering from mental illnesses, have been remanded for the recent murder which occurred at

the National Psychiatric Hospital at Fort Canje, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).

Remanded are Curtis Robertson, 31, a farmer of

During the court hearing, Robertson told the court what he knew about the incident. He also told the court it was the second time he was charged with a crime. He said he was charged previously with breaking into his own house.

Police Prosecutor, Lance Corporal Ryan Jattan told the court that the Police had not completed their inves-

Police had reported that he died sometime between 01:00h and 07:30h on April 19, at the National Psychiatric Hospital.

An autopsy performed on the victim’s body found that he died from shock along with cerebral haemorrhage due to a fractured skull. (G4)

Golden Fleece, West Coast Berbice; Kellon Cadogan, 29, of Wismar, Linden; and Mark Sampson, 36, self-employed of Vrymens Erven, New Amsterdam.

Dead: Dinesh Persaud

Remanded: Kellon Cadogan Remanded: Curtis Robertson (left) and Mark Sampson

“Disappointing”

NDIA to soon award cleaning contracts to West Ruimveldt residents

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha visited West Ruimveldt, Georgetown on Monday

TUESDAY, MAY 9, 2023

Works ongoing to enhance the Guyana Zoo

Guyana Zoo in particular, are constantly brought to the attention of management and we would like the public to recognise that we are working assiduously to improve the conditions of the zoo for both the patrons

a tender out in the print for the rehabilitation of the animal clinic and the jaguar enclosure, which is all part of enhancing the aesthetics of the zoo in a phased approach.

It was pointed out that

The Protected Areas Commission (PAC) has an ongoing campaign to enhance its urban parks to create a more engaging atmosphere for the thousands of patrons who visit daily.

Some of these enhancement projects are ongoing across all of its urban parks with the support of local and international stake-

holders, while more long terms plans are being examined.

This will see the National Park, Botanical Gardens, Guyana Zoo and the Joe Vieira Park benefiting from major and micro projects to enhance these facilities throughout this year and the foreseeable future.

“The conditions of the

who visit and the animals who live there,” the PAC said in a statement.

The PAC currently has

currently the zoo does not function according to the definition of a traditional zoo.

“We do not seek out and acquire animals for captive breeding or ex-situ conservation. Rather, the animals currently in the zoo have been rescued from various abandoned, illegal or abusive conditions, and brought to us for rehabilitation and release. Those who can no longer survive in the wild are rehabilitated and provided a safe space in our zoo to live out the remainder of their lives. Over the coming weeks the public will learn more about the zoo and its function as a rescue centre,” the PAC noted.

The zoo is managed by

TUESDAY, MAY 9, 2023

12:00 Movie - A Slice of Romance (2021) 13:30 Wheel of Fortune 14:00

Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir S1 E1

14:30 Star Wars: The Clone Wars S3 E19

15:00 Indian Soaps

16:00 Power Rangers: Super Ninja Steel S1 E21

16:30 Doogie Kamealoha, M.D. S1 E7

17:00 The Young & The Restless

18:00 CNN

18:30 Teaching the Truth in Love

19:00 The Evening News

20:00 Stop Suffering

20:30 Stand-up Comedy

21:00 Dynasty S3 E3

22:00 Blacklist S6 E22

23:00 The Vampire Diaries S7 E10 00:00 Sign off

the PAC, a semi-autonomous Government agency. Several enhancement projects have been approved for the urban park and the Guyana Zoo under the 2023 budget, including projects to improve drainage, security, lighting and animal en-

ways and enclosures in some parts of the zoo. In the coming months, our team will be working with stakeholders and contractors to continue these renovations. As part of these efforts, our engineer and team met with interested contractors on

closures.

“We have already begun working on some of these projects, and there has been improvements in the walk-

May 3rd, 2023, to discuss works on a jaguar enclosure and rehabilitation of our animal hospital,” the PAC noted.

France says Haiti remains a “priority concern”

France said Haiti remained a “priority concern” for it , adding that it is mobilised along with the rest of the international community to help deal with the political as well as the socio-economic situation in the French-speaking Caribbean Community (Caricom) country.

In a statement on the crisis in Haiti, a spokesman for the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, AnneClaire Legendre, said “we are facing a deep political and security crisis in Haiti, which is having serious consequences for the population, and which is also hampering humanitarian access, in an increasingly degraded economic and social context.

”France is mobilised, along with the rest of the international community, both in terms of security, politics and humanitarian issues. According to the national network for the defence of human rights in Haiti, criminal groups control the entire capital.”

She said it was in this context that France has given priority to the res -

toration of security and greatly increased its support for the National Police of Haiti.

“It is important that Security Council resolution 2653 be implemented. You know that it introduced a sanctions regime that targets people involved in criminal activities. We are also working on the adoption of a European framework of sanctions which would complement these UN sanctions. So much for the security aspect of this crisis.

”In addition, we obviously have a mobilisa -

tion on issues of political dialogue. There was an agreement on December 21, 2022. It is now a matter of Haitian political actors returning to this dialogue, to quickly appoint a Provisional Electoral Council, which will finally make it possible to move towards elections.”

Late last month, the Special Representative of the Secretary General and Head of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH), Maria Isabel Salvador, said that gang violence was expanding at an alarming rate in areas previously consid -

ered relatively safe in the capital, Port-au-Prince.

The UN said that compared to the first quarter of 2022, criminal incidents, including homicide, rape, kidnappings and lynching, more than doubled in the same period in 2023 to 1647.

Some residents have begun to take matters in their own hands, and recently, a group of civilians seized 13 suspected gang members from Police custody, beat them to death, and burnt their bodies.

The Police have since pledged to crack down on unrelenting gang violence and pleaded with Haitians to end a string of grisly vigilante killings.

Legendre said on the humanitarian side, France has increased its humanitarian aid, “which for 2023 amounts to nine million euros (one euro = US$1.29), including 5.5 million in food aid, which is particularly critical in the current situation.

“We are also working on health issues, with an increase in our aid in the fight against cholera, which is also raging in Haiti,” she added. (CMC)

According to the national network for the defence of human rights in Haiti, criminal groups control the entire capital

CXC Questions: Maths

Dutch PM to discuss defence of Ukraine with Brazil's Lula

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said he will lay out the need to defend Ukraine in the war with Russia today when he meets Brazilian President Luis Inácio Lula da Silva, who has been critical of arming the Ukrainians.

"We need to help Ukraine fight this fight," Rutte told reporters on Monday, the first day of his visit to Brazil.

Rutte said he will explain to Lula why the question of backing Ukraine is "existential" for the Netherlands, for Europe and beyond, because the Russian invasion has put Western values at stake.

"If Putin would be successful in Ukraine, and I don't think he will be, it won't end there. People are worried for their own safety, in Amsterdam, in Berlin, in Paris and Europe," he said.

Lula, who has tried to encourage countries who are not involved in the conflict to form a group to push for peace talks, has said supply-

ing arms to Ukraine was encouraging the war. The US Government accused him of parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda.

The Dutch Government is considering with its European partners donating F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine.

"We discussing intensely with Denmark, the UK, some other parties in Europe and also the US on F-16s," Rutte said in Sao Paulo.

But agreement was first

Mexico's top court invalidates part of President's electoral reform

Mexico's Supreme Court on Monday struck down part of an electoral overhaul championed by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador that curbs the power of the country's elections authority, which the leftist leader has repeatedly attacked.

A separate part of the legislative reform, which slashes the budget and staffing at the National Electoral Institute (INE), is still being evaluated by the tribunal.

the INE's ability to police political communications, the court announced on Twitter.

The Justices ruled that "serious violations in legislative procedure" had taken place in passing the measure, it said.

In March, the court temporarily suspended other parts of the overhaul, citing violations of citizens' political rights.

favour of his opponents.

Critics argue the electoral shake-up really aims to cede power to state and local officials, many of whom are currently affiliated with Lopez Obrador's ruling MORENA party, potentially tipping the scales in its favour in the 2024 general election.

needed between all the partners, as they had done in the past before supplying Panzer howitzers and Leopard tanks to Ukraine, he said. "The debate is ongoing."

Rutte is on a three-day visit accompanied by a business delegation for talks focusing on trade and cooperation for sustainable agriculture and the energy transition, especially hydrogen. (Reuters)

King Charles III as Head of State in St Vincent and the Grenadines “absurd” – Gonsalves

Nine of the court's 11 Justices voted to invalidate the reform's push to rein in

Lopez Obrador says he was twice robbed of the presidency before he won by a landslide in the 2018 election, and argues the INE is too expensive and biased in

Tens of thousands of protesters took to the streets in February after lawmakers approved the reform, in one of the largest protests so far against Lopez Obrador's 4-1/2 year-old administration. (Reuters)

Ecuador deploys soldiers against illegal mines in Amazonian areas

Ecuador's Government is deploying soldiers and Police in nine provinces to combat illegal mining, officials said on Monday, in a bid to stamp out the unlawful mines mostly targeting gold and copper deposits.

The announcement came after some 1000 security forces destroyed machinery in a raid on illegal miners in the eastern Amazonian provinces of Napo and Orellana.

Earlier this year, President Guillermo Lasso declared illegal mining a threat to national security, linking the practice to organised crime, including money laundering and arms and fuel trafficking.

"To the members of organised crime who insist on this activity, hear this message clearly: We're coming in with absolutely everything," Interior Minister Juan Zapata told a press conference in capital Quito.

Illegal mining is present in 21 of Ecuador's 24 provinces, Zapata said, but the plan announced on Monday

The Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines has said having a British monarch as Head of State is "an absurdity" he would like to end in his lifetime.

Dr Ralph Gonsalves said he would welcome an apology from the British State and monarchy on past injustices relating to slavery.

He said he believes King Charles III is open to talking about reparations.

King Charles is Head of State in eight Caribbean countries.

Within the past year, political leaders in The Bahamas, Belize, Grenada, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis and Antigua and Barbuda have all indicated their plans to review their positions as constitutional

monarchies.

The Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Dr Terrance Drew, told the BBC his country is "not totally free" as long as King Charles III remains Head of State and that a public consultation on whether the nation should become a republic would begin during his leadership.

Speaking to the BBC two days after the coronation, Dr Gonsalves said the current constitutional arrangement "offends people in a psychological way" and his country wanted a president "selected by our own constitutional processes".

In 2009, St Vincent and the Grenadines held a referendum to decide whether to transition to a republic. Forty-five per cent of vot -

ers chose to replace Queen Elizabeth II with a ceremonial President – falling far short of the two-thirds required.

Dr Gonsalves has said he would like to try again.

"I don't know whether it will happen. But I'm hoping so. If it doesn't happen, somebody else will stand on my shoulders and carry forth that work," he said.

According to a recent poll conducted in the 15 countries where the King is Head of State, St Vincent and the Grenadines is among those most opposed to becoming a republic.

In a statement, Buckingham Palace said the decision on transitioning to a republic "is purely a matter for each country to decide". (Excerpt from BBC News)

targets key conflict zones in the Amazon region that are rich in biodiversity, including protected areas, as well as areas that are home to precious and base metals.

The latest operation aims to further destroy machinery, seize weapons and arrest those involved, according to Zapata.

Last weekend in Napo and Orellana, security forces reported the visible impact of the unlawful activity on local biodiversity and rivers, as well the

presence of fuel in the water, Environment Minister Jose Davalos told reporters.

So far this year, raids authorised by authorities on illegal mines have documented the seizure of heavy machinery and even a helicopter.

The Government has not given figures on the increase in illegal mining, nor the total number of hectares (acres) affected in the most affected areas, but it has described it is a growing activity. (Reuters)

Chile’s conservatives win most seats on constitution rewrite body

Chilean right-wing parties have won a majority of votes to elect advisers to draft a new constitution, marking a sharp shift from a progressive majority that drafted a failed first constitutional rewrite.

With 95.13 per cent of ballots tallied, Chile’s Republican Party, led by former conservative firebrand presidential candidate Jose Antonio Kast, secured nearly 35 per cent in Sunday’s vote.

A separate coalition of traditional right-wing parties gained more than 20 per cent of the vote, while

President Gabriel Boric’s left-wing coalition garnered about 29 per cent. Centrist parties took the remainder of the vote.

“Today is the first day of a better future, a new start for Chile,” Kast, who lost to Boric in 2021, said during a speech in Santiago. “Chile has defeated a failed government.”

The final results will determine the exact make-up of a 50-seat Constitutional Council that will be in charge of drafting a new constitution. Articles will need a three-fifths majority to be approved.

This is the latest step in a years-long effort to overhaul the country’s dictatorship-era text after nearly 80 per cent of Chileans voted to draft a new Constitution in 2020 following violent protests against inequality.

Al Jazeera’s Lucia Newman, reporting from Santiago, said, “Should the text be found wanting, Chile will have lost the last opportunity for a long time to finally eliminate the last important symbol of its former military dictatorship.”

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte

Members of the A'i Cofan community guard make plans after patrolling the banks of the Aguarico River in Ecuador's Amazon (Reuters/Johanna Alarcon)

King Charles III, seen here with Ralph Gonsalves, is Head of State in a number of Caribbean countries

Around The World OIL NEWS

Russia attacks Ukraine with huge drone swarm ahead of Victory Day holiday

Oil climbs over 2% as recession fears begin to fade

Oil prices rose over 2% on Monday as US recession fears eased and some traders saw crude's three-week slide on demand worries as overdone.

Brent crude settled up US$1.71, or 2.3%, at US$77.01. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude also gained US$1.82, or 2.6%, to US$73.16.

A healthy US jobs report for April helped oil to climb by about 4% on Friday even though labour market strength could compel the Federal Reserve to keep interest rates higher for longer.

Brent had finished last week with a decline of about 5.3% while US crude plunged by 7.1% even after Friday's rebound. Both benchmarks were down for three weeks in a row for the first time since November.

"Oil's rebound (on Monday) follows energy stocks' comeback on Wall Street last Friday after the US reported strong job data, which eased concerns about an imminent economic recession," said CMC Markets analyst Tina Teng.

Banking concerns have plagued the market recently after the collapse of three major US regional banks in recent months. Still, the KBW Regional Banking index posted its best single-day performance in seven weeks on Friday, before falling on Monday.

"The market is less worried about a banking crisis that could lead to a recession and hurt demand," said Phil Flynn, an analyst at Price Futures Group.

Also supporting oil prices, Alberta declared a state of emergency over the weekend in response to wildfires that have displaced nearly 30,000 people and prompted energy producers to shut in at least 185,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd), about 2% of Canada's output.

Ole Hansen, head of commodity strategy at Saxo Bank, said oil's recent drop looked excessive.

"An oversold market condition combined with Brent managing to find support ahead of the March low forced recently established short sellers to seek cover, potentially highlighting that the recent sell-off was overdone," he said.

Goldman Sachs analysts on Saturday said that concerns over near-term demand and elevated supplies were "overblown."

A round of voluntary output cuts by some members of the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies, together called OPEC+, begin this month and the group holds its next meeting on June 4.

Before then, US consumer price inflation figures for April will be in focus on Wednesday, potentially influencing the Fed's stance on future interest rate decisions.

OPEC's latest monthly oil market report is due on Thursday, providing an updated reading on the demand and supply outlook. (Reuters)

Russia launched its biggest swarm of drones for months against Ukraine on Monday, the eve of Russia's May 9 holiday celebrating the defeat of Nazi Germany.

Ukraine commemorated the occasion, known as Victory Day, on Monday in a symbolic break with Moscow. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy compared the Ukrainian troops currently fighting Russia with those who had battled the Nazis.

Kyiv's Mayor said Russia had fired 60 Iranian-made kamikaze drones at Ukrainian targets, including 36 at the capital, all of which had been shot down. Debris hit apartments and other buildings, injuring at least five people in the city.

A food warehouse was set ablaze by a missile in the Black Sea city of Odesa, where officials reported three people were injured.

It was the biggest drone swarm yet in a renewed Russian air campaign unleashed 10 days ago after a lull since early March.

Kyiv said Moscow was also making a final push to try to capture the ruined eastern city of Bakhmut to deliver President Vladimir Putin what would be his only prize for a costly Russian winter offensive, in time for Victory Day.

Moscow is preparing for today's Victory Day parade, the most important day in the calendar for Russia under Putin, who evokes the 1945 Soviet triumph over Nazi Germany in trying to rally Russians behind his invasion of Ukraine.

In a new break with Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy marked Victory Day on Monday rather than Tuesday, announcing that decree a change in the date of the holiday to match the practice of Western allies.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

China and US see need to stabilise relations

China's Foreign Minister Qin Gang said on Monday it is imperative to stabilise Sino-US relations after a series of "erroneous words and deeds" threw ties back into a deep freeze.

Qin, in a meeting in Beijing with US Ambassador Nicholas Burns, stressed in particular that Washington must correct its handling of the Taiwan issue and stop the hollowing out of the "one China" principle, accord-

ing to China's Foreign Ministry.

Asked about Qin's remarks, US State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel said Burns had "conveyed privately" that there had been no change in US policy towards China and in particular its one-China policy, under which Washington officially recognises Beijing diplomatically, not Taipei.

Patel told a regular briefing Burns had spoken about areas where the

countries could cooperate, including climate change, global health and food security.

"We want to and intend to keep lines of communication open," Patel said, while adding that Washington would "continue standing with our friends and allies across the Indo-Pacific to advance our shared prosperity and security and values."

"We do not intend to change the status quo - that has not been the approach

India Kerala: At least 22 dead as

At least 22 people have died after a packed tourist boat capsized in India's southern Kerala state.

The death toll could rise as rescue efforts are under way on Monday and the vessel is pulled from muddy waters.

Indonesia, Singapore condemn 'shootout' involving ASEAN officials in Myanmar

Indonesia and Singapore condemned an attack involving Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) officials delivering humanitarian aid in Myanmar and called for an end to violence in the strifetorn country.

It was unclear who was behind the incident that, according to Indonesian foreign ministry spokesperson Teuku Faizasyah, took place in Hsi Hseng township in the western Shan State and targeted officials from the ASEAN humanitarian assistance centre.

Myanmar has been trapped in a spiral of violence and economic turmoil

since the military in 2021 overthrew an elected government and launched a brutal campaign to crush dissent.

Intensifying military attacks and clashes with armed resistance movements across the country have prompted calls, including from Myanmar's ASEAN neighbours, to end all hostilities and allow access for humanitarian aid.

Two staff members of the Singapore embassy in Yangon who were part of the convoy were safe and had returned to the city, a spokesperson for Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

Singapore urged all parties to refrain from violence, saying, "Only constructive dialogue among all key stakeholders in Myanmar can facilitate a peaceful solution in the interests of the people of Myanmar."

Indonesia President Joko Widodo did not give details of what he called a "shootout" but said it would not deter efforts by Indonesia and ASEAN to push for peace in Myanmar.

Myanmar's shadow National Unity Government, which is allied with the anti-junta militias, the People's Defence Forces (PDF), said it was not involved in the incident. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Overcrowding caused the double-decker boat to capsize, Abdul Nazar, junior superintendent of police of Malappuram district, told Reuters.

The boat was reportedly carrying about 50 people, or double its capacity, when it overturned on Sunday night.

The Police on Monday registered a case of culpable homicide against the owner of the boat, who is reportedly absconding.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences on Twitter, saying he was "pained by the loss of lives".

that the United States has attempted to take," he said.

Relations between the world's two biggest economies sank to a low last year when then US House speaker Nancy Pelosi visited democratically governed Taiwan which claims the island as its territory.

In response, Beijing severed several formal communications channels with the United States including one between their militaries. (Excerpt from Reuters)

boat capsizes

Many passengers were trapped under the boat and the darkness held back rescue efforts, according to local media. The casualties included women and children on school holiday.

At least four people who were taken to hospital are in critical condition, said Kerala's sports and fisheries Minister, V Abdurahiman.

The exact number of missing passengers was not immediately clear. Authorities said they were investigating the cause of the accident and are looking into whether the boat had a proper permit.

Shameer, a lifeguard involved in the rescue operation, told Mathrubhumi news channel that "the boat was completely upside down" when rescuers arrived at the scene. "I recovered four bodies and none of them had life jackets on."

Many of the other passengers were also not wearing life jackets at the time of the incident, survivors told local media.

Boat accidents are not infrequent in India where vessels are often overcrowded, poorly maintained and lack safety equipment. (Excerpt from BBC News)

A view shows an apartment building damaged by remains of a suicide drone, which local authorities consider to be Iranian made unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) Shahed-131/136, shot down during a Russian overnight strike, in Kyiv, Ukraine, May 8, 2023

The vessel capsized due to overcrowding, Police say

DAILY HOROSCOPES

(March 21-April 19)

Emotional problems will surface if you are too explicit about your plans. Take your time and leave nothing to chance. A passionate approach will help you gain the support you need to forge ahead.

Embrace whatever comes your way and search for an appropriate solution. What you discover will change your life. Speak from the heart and make what you have to offer crystal clear.

(April 20-May 20)

PEANUTS

(May 21-June 20)

Get organized and spend more time and money on learning and developing. Check out investments and look for ways to lower your overhead. Take on what you can handle and do your research.

Share your thoughts and feelings with a loved one or colleague, and you’ll make progress. Your insight and ability to put others at ease will help you drum up support.

(June 21-July 22)

CALVIN

AND HOBBES

(July 23-Aug. 22)

Keeping a steady pace and paying attention to detail will help you finish what you start. Don’t let anyone interfere with your schedule. A positive attitude will be key.

Gather information and prepare to discuss what’s important to you and with whom you want to work. Social events, conventions, travel and educational pursuits will help you make connections.

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Keep your work and home lives separate. Don’t overspend or take on more than you can handle. Keeping the peace will be in your best interest. Look for a unique way to make your point.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

Put your energy where it counts, and you’ll gain momentum and generate interest in your plans and progress. Spending more time with others will lead to a change of heart.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Be careful not to share sensitive information. Put your energy into how you earn your living and handle your money. Take better care of your health and emotional well-being.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Put everything you’ve got into what you enjoy doing most, and you’ll get great results. Focus on important relationships and be wary of risky or indulgent situations.

A friend, relative or peer will oppose you. Be blunt about what you want. Look for any underlying problem that might interfere with your progress. Use your strengths to get ahead.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Added discipline will help you gain ground. Be direct about what you want to do. An event that requires physical strength and a good imagination will put you in the spotlight.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

Swag Entertainment reigned supreme on Saturday at the Amelia’s Ward/Wisroc Car Park when they achieved a three-peat of titles in the Guinness “Greatest of the Streets” Linden Championship.

Swag Entertainment defeated Universal Ballers in a nail-biting 2-1 final on their way to their third consecutive championship.

With the win, Swag became only the second team to achieve such a feat, after Showstoppers of West Demerara claimed three consecutive zonal titles.

In the championship game, Universal Ballers’ Mortimer Giddings found the back of the net first in the fifth minute to hand his team the lead. However, Swag Entertainment’s Deon Carter

struck four minutes later, to bring the scores level.

With time running out, it was Swag’s Colwyn Drakes

who found the game winner in the 13th minute, slotting home from the centre of the field after receiving a left-sided

pass.

In the third-place playoff, spectators were treated to sudden-death kicks from the penalty mark, after a contest between Speightland and Anybody Got It ended in deadlock.

From the penalty mark, Speightland prevailed 4-3 over their opponents.

Earlier in the night, semifinal action went down at the same venue, with eventual champions Swag Entertainment getting the better of Speightland 2-1, on penalty kicks, after regulation time ended with the scoreline reading 1-1. On the other hand, Universal Ballers dismantled Anybody Got It 4-0, on their way to the final.

Along with their championship trophy, Swag

Entertainment carted off a $400,000 grand prize, while Universal Ballers had to settle for $200,000. Speightland pocketed a $150,000 thirdplace prize, while Anybody Got It received $80,000 for their fourth-place finish.

Complete Results

Final

Swag Entertainment

2 v Universal Ballers 1

Swag Entertainment scorers

Deon Charter – 9th

Colwyn Drakes – 13th

Universal Ballers scorer

Mortimer Giddings – 5th

3rd Place

Anybody Got It 0

v Speightland 0

Anybody Got It won 4-3 on sudden-death penalty kicks

Semi-final Round

Game 1

Universal Ballers 4

v Anybody Got It 0

Universal Ballers scorers

Jamal Caster – 4th

Tevin Crawford – 20th

Amoniki Myers – 23rd

Mortimer Giddings – 24th

Game 2

Swag Entertainment

1 v Speightland 1

Swag won 2-1 on penalty kicks

Swag Entertainment scorer

Donovan Francis – 3rd

Speightland scorer

Kester Randolph – 17th

Russell and Rinku star as KKR win last-ball thriller

Kolkata Knight Riders hung on by the skin of their teeth, both in their match against Punjab Kings and in the tournament.

Rinku Singh sealed another last-ball win for them, but this was no miraculous comeback from the dead. This was a topsy-turvy contest set up by KKR's spinners, but even their batters struggled on a slow surface.

Nitish Rana set up the chase with 51 off 38, but it took

Andre Russell to finally turn up and take 20 runs off the 19th over, bowled by Sam Curran, to bring the equation down to six required off the last over.

Arshdeep Singh managed to push them all the way to the last ball, before Rinku Singh found the boundary with two runs required.

The result left KKR and PBKS level at 10 points from 11 matches. Five teams are currently tied on that points total in the middle of the table,

SCOREBOARD

Punjab Kings (20 ovs maximum)

Prabhsimran Singh

c †Rahmanullah Gurbaz

b Harshit Rana 12

Shikhar Dhawan (c) c Arora

b Rana 57

Bhanuka Rajapaksa c †Rahmanullah Gurbaz

b Harshit Rana 0

Liam Livingstone lbw b Varun 15

Jitesh Sharma † c †Rahmanullah

Gurbaz b Varun 21

Sam Curran c †Rahmanullah

Gurbaz b Suyash Sharma 4

Rishi Dhawan b Varun 19

M Shahrukh Khan not out 21

Harpreet Brar not out 17

Extras (b 4, lb 3, nb 2, w 4) 13

TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 8.95) 179/7

Did not bat: Rahul Chahar, Arshdeep Singh, Nathan Ellis

Fall of wickets: 1-21 (Prabhsimran

Singh, 1.6 ov), 2-29 (Bhanuka

Rajapaksa, 3.4 ov), 3-53 (Liam

Livingstone, 5.3 ov), 4-106 (Jitesh Sharma, 12.3 ov), 5-119 (Shikhar Dhawan, 14.4 ov),

6-139 (Rishi Dhawan, 16.5 ov),

7-139 (Sam Curran, 17.2 ov) •

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Vaibhav Arora 3-0-32-0

Harshit Rana 3-0-33-2

Andre Russell 1-0-19-0

Varun Chakravarthy 4-0-26-3

Suyash Sharma 4-0-26-1

Sunil Narine 4-0-29-0

Nitish Rana 1-0-7-1

Kolkata Knight Riders (T: 180 runs from 20 ovs)

Jason Roy c Shahrukh Khan b

Harpreet Brar 38

Rahmanullah Gurbaz † lbw b Ellis 15

Nitish Rana (c) c Livingstone

b Chahar 51

Venkatesh Iyer c Livingstone

b Chahar 11

Andre Russell run out

(†Sharma/Arshdeep Singh) 42

Rinku Singh not out 21

Shardul Thakur not out 0

Extras (lb 1, w 3) 4

TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 9.10) 182/5

Did not bat: Sunil Narine,

Harshit Rana, Vaibhav Arora,

Varun Chakravarthy

Fall of wickets: 1-38

(Rahmanullah Gurbaz, 4.4 ov),

2-64 (Jason Roy, 7.2 ov), 3-115

(Venkatesh Iyer, 13.4 ov), 4-124

(Nitish Rana, 15.2 ov), 5-178

(Andre Russell, 19.5 ov) •

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Rishi Dhawan 2-0-15-0

Arshdeep Singh 4-0-39-0

Nathan Ellis 4-0-29-1

Sam Curran 3-0-44-0

Liam Livingstone 2-0-27-0

Harpreet Brar 1-0-4-1

Rahul Chahar 4-0-23-2

but both Royal Challengers Bangalore and Mumbai Indians –- who meet on Tuesday - have a game in hand.

Harshit Rana keeps a check PBKS were always going to target the new ball, because they expected the spinners to be effective on this pitch, which is why they batted first. Prabhsimran Singh was up early, using Vaibhav Arora's inswing to pick up three boundaries in the first over.

The impressive Harshit Rana, though, bowled hard lengths and got disconcerting bounce from the pitch. He had both Prabhsimran and Bhanuka Rajapaksa caught at the wicket while looking to hit big shots. Rajapaksa's return to the side ended with a three-ball duck. Liam Livingstone still kept going hard, helping PBKS take 19 off the fifth over, bowled by Russell, to make it 51 for 2.

The spin choke

KKR are not shy to use spin during the powerplay or at the death. They had picked three spinners. So they began the spin attack in earnest. Varun Chakravarthy got the first shot, and produced a beautiful legbreak to trap the rampaging Livingstone in front.

Having lost a third wicket inside the powerplay, PBKS had to go into rebuild mode, especially with the KKR spinners bowling well. Jitesh Sharma then hit Suyash Sharma for a six, and Shikhar Dhawan had just about begun to open up again with sweeps and reversesweeps when Varun came back for the 13th over.

Once again, Varun produced the breakthrough, spinning the ball away from Jitesh, taking

the edge through to the keeper. Nitish brought himself on when two left-hand batters were at the wicket, and got Dhawan for 57 off 47. Suyash proceeded to tighten the screws with the wicket of Curran. In effect, PBKS were tied down on a slow pitch by 13 straight overs of spin, which brought them just 92 runs for five wickets.

Pace on, game on

As soon as KKR went back to pace for the last two overs, PBKS came back to life and took 36 runs to make it a total of 87 from just seven overs of pace. Shahrukh Khan scored 21 off 8, and Harpreet Brar 17 off 9.

Nathan Ellis gives PBKS early lead

A similar pattern of batters going after pace followed, but Nathan Ellis, deservingly playing ahead of Kagiso Rabada, flummoxed Rahmanullah Gurbaz with his slower one. At 39 for 1 after five overs, with Venkatesh Iyer not allowed to bat at number three at that moment, because he had spent time off the field during the PBKS innings, KKR needed something special.

Rana attacks Livingstone

PBKS went to take pace off the ball, but Jason Roy and Nitish managed to hit Livingstone for a total of five boundaries in his two overs. It softened the blow of KKR losing Roy to Brar with the ball arriving too late for his slogsweep. The equation had got tricky – 104 from 10 overs on a tricky surface – when Nitish took down Livingstone's second over, bringing KKR's task down to 88 from 54 balls.

Chahar keeps PBKS in it

He might not be having the greatest season, but Rahul Chahar turned up for PBKS with the wickets of Iyer and Rana, earned through the slowing down of pace, which he himself carried out. At the fall of Rana's wicket, KKR needed 56 off 28, and it was down to Russell and Rinku.

The finishing touches

Chahar bowled out in the 16th over, leaving KKR 51 to get off 24, but PBKS had a question to answer: bowl four overs of pace or go to Brar's leftarm spin. They took the safe route. Ellis bowled out in the 17th, but went for 15 as Russell hit a four and Rinku a six. Ellis's figures

of 4-0-29-1 almost made up for the absence of the extra spinner, but KKR were still ahead in the game.

With 26 required off two over, though, Curran made a couple of errors in execution, and Russell climbed in with two sixes over the bigger boundary. For good measure, he skimmed one over the short side too.

Arshdeep bowled a superb last over, denying Russell the big hit, and then running him out as he scrambled for a bye to tie the game off the fifth ball. Off the last ball, Arshdeep finally erred, and Rinku flicked the full-toss square of fine leg to get twice the requirement.

(ESPNcricinfo)

Banks DIH Linden Branch Manager Sean Grant presenting the championship trophy to the victorious Swag Entertainment in the presence of teammates and tournament officials

“One Guyana” National Futsal Championship…

Over the weekend, the Kashif and Shanghai group’s “One Guyana” National Futsal Championship Round of 16 matches commenced at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue, but not before the final group stage matches took place on Saturday night. The Round of 16 then kicked off on Sunday, May 7, 2023.

On Saturday, in the opening match of the night, NA United devastated Thomas Lands with a 2-1 victory. Goals came from NA United’s Justin Williams and Allista Drakes, who scored one goal each. Kevin Gordon scored the consolation goal for Thomas Lands. Ballers Empire thumped California Square in the second match to win 4-1, with sensational strikes from Solomon Austin in the eighth minute followed by a double from Stephon Jupiter in the eighth and 13th and a Donte Mc Aulay goal in the 22nd. Mario Eastman was the lone goalscorer for California Square in the 29th

BCB/Dave West Indian Imports 40-over tournament…

Bush Lot United SC, Cotton Tree, Achievers, D’Edward register wins

Despite problems with weather and the unplayable conditions of several grounds, the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) started its BCB/Dave West Indian Imports 40-over SecondDivision tournament.

The tournament involves the hosting of five different subdivision tournaments which would each provide a champion. These five champions would then go on to play for the overall Berbice title. The five subdivisions are West Berbice, Lower Corentyne, Upper Corentyne, New Amsterdam/Canje and Berbice River. The tournament has been played with close to 80 teams, the most for any tournament in Guyana.

Warriors. Nilson Figuera was the lone goalscorer for Kitty Spanish.

The opening match of the Round of 16 action on Sunday night saw Stabroek Ballers demolishing Albouystown 6-0 and becoming the first team to advance to the quarterfinal round. A sensational performance saw Bevney Marks netting a hat-trick (2nd, 23rd and 29th) while Shamar Welch and Dorwin George did not miss out on the scoresheet with a double from George (38th and 39th) and a solitary goal by Welch (19th).

double in the 16th and 36th minutes while Clive Nobrega put the ball in the net in the 37th, securing the game.

Kumath Ramkisson grabbed seven wickets

Highlights of the outstanding performances saw Arthur Bailey, Steffon Adams, Shamal Angel, Quaccey McPherson, Joel Dilchand, Waqar Hassan, K Ali, Nick Ramsaroop, W Subhan and Sherwin McPherson notching up half- centuries.

minute.

The tertiary match of the night saw a demonstration of class from Road Warriors, who emerged victorious against Kitty Spanish 4-1. Sakeel Cadogan’s classy goal in the 15th minute were among the goals for Road

The next match saw an extraordinary performance by Bent Street, securing a quarterfinal position with a 4-1 victory over Wismar All Stars. Devontea Tappin of Wismar All Stars scored the first goal in the fifth minute, but Bent Street kept their composure and netted the equaliser off the boots of Adrian Aaron, in the 10th. Sheldon Holder managed to score a

The final match of the night was a tense match, having supporters on their feet when California Square opposed Leopold Street. The 2-1 affair went the way of California Square, earning them a quarterfinal berth. California Square’s Jerry Burnette netted the first goal to give them an advantage in the 26th minute, but Leopold Street’s D Stewart equalised the game 10 minutes later. T Blaize locked in the victory for California Square with a goal in the 40th minute.

The Kashif and Shanghai organised “One Guyana” National Futsal tournament will continue this evening (Tuesday, May 9) with the remainder of the Round of 16 games. The teams are vying for a $1 million grand prize.

BCB/Ali’s Bakery Under 17 tournament…

At the Bath Community Centre Ground; Achievers arrested West Berbice Police by six wickets. West Berbice Police were bowled out for 50 in 11 overs after taking first strike, Grisean Grant scored 12. Bowling for Achievers, Rendell Bobb grabbed 3 for 8 off 4 overs and Shamal Angel 3 for 6 off 4 overs. In reply, Achievers reached 51 for 4 off 8 overs, with Shamal Angel 14 not out.

At Bush Lot, Bush Lot United Sports Club defeated Blairmont Remnants by a mammoth 258 runs. Bush Lot United Sports Club scored 300 all out in 35.4 overs, Joel Dilchand scored 56, Rajiv Kishun 43 and Ajai Matabeek 43 while extras top scored with 74.

Paramdoo Ramdhan grabbed 3 for 70 off 7 overs. In reply, Blairmont Remnants were dismissed for 42. Kumath Ramkisson grabbed 7 for 20 off 7.2 overs.

At Paradise, Bush Lot United

Centuries from Ramnauth, Persaud and Budhoo highlight opening round

The opening round of the Berbice

Cricket Board/Ali’s Bakery Under 17 Knockout Tournament bowled off on Friday last with victories for Achievers A, Cotton Tree, Rose Hall Canje, Albion A, Rose Hall Town Bakewell, Port Mourant, and Upper Corentyne.

The highlights of the opening round were centuries from Rampertab Ramnauth, Rampersaud Ramnauth, Afraz Budhoo, and Avishkar Persaud while five-wicket hauls were taken by Deeraj Ramjit, Aryan Darat, Tulsieram Ramcharran, and Nathan Karamchand.

Scores from the matches were:

Port Mourant CC defeated Radha Krishna by 385 runs at Port Mourant. PMCC – 455 for 6 off 50 overs. Rampertab

Ramnauth 195, Rampersaud Ramnauth

115. Radha Krishna – 70 all out in 24 overs, Aryan Dasrath 5 for 12. Albion B lost to Upper Corentyne by 62 runs at the Number 72 Ground. Upper Corentyne – 211 all out in 36 overs with Gibran Yacoob 51, Khemraj Sukhwa 24, and Aaron Yacoob 18 being the main

scorers. Nathaniel Ramsammy took 4 for 55 and Reshawn Sakrulla 2 for 43; they were the best bowlers for Albion B. In reply, Albion B were dismissed for 149 in 34.3 overs, with Ramsammy returning with the bat to score 24 and Chamesh Sewnauth 13. Aaron Yacoob (3 for 38) and Gibran Yacoob (2 for 21) were the main bowlers for Upper Corentyne.

Cotton Tree defeated Achievers B/ Bush Lot United by 88 runs at the Cotton Tree Ground. Cotton Tree –199 all out in 46.1 overs. Shoaib Gaffoor 28, Rohait Sarjoon 28, Arif Bacchus 22. Tulsieram Ramcharran 5 for 13, Shahadon Mohamed 2 for 28. Achievers B/Bush Lot – 111 all out in 22 overs, Justin Doobay 51. Shoaib Gaffoor 3 for 23, Arif Khan 3 for 25, and Rashad Gaffoor 2 for 21.

RH Canje CC defeated East Bank Blazers by 216 runs at Canje. RH Canje – 311 for 9 off 50 overs, Avishkar Persaud 119, Sanjay Algoo 47. Odwin Cort 2 for 72, Shamar Semple 2 for 52 and Josh Sampson 2 for 41. East Bank Blazers – 95 all out in 25.2 overs, Odwin Cort 19, Shamar Semple 12. Richard Ramdeholl 3 for 1, Ahil Hemraj 2

for 31, and Enrique Mickle 2 for 14.

RHT Bakewell got past Skeldon Community Centre by 88 runs at the Area H Ground. RHT Bakewell – 191 all out in 48 overs. Rondy James 32, Mario Butcher 30. L Chaitnarine 3 for 9, M Baichan 2 for 29. Skeldon – 103 all out in 32 overs, J Clarke 26, N Singh 17. Deeraj Ramjit 5 for 32, Matthew Pottaya 3 for 6.

Albion A breezed past Guymine by 440 runs at the Jai Hind Ground. Albion A – 469 for 7 from their allotted 50 overs. Afraz Budhoo 105, Ari-Afrizal Kadir 94, and Damion Cecil 57. D Hope 3 for 69, T John 2 for 51. Guymine – 29 all out in 12.4 overs. Kumar Deopersaud 3 for 1, Nicholas Ishack 3 for 8, Afraz Budhoo 2 for 2.

Achievers A sent Bath packing with a five-wicket defeat. Bath – 105 all out in 25.1 overs, Aslam Mohin 20, Simon Anandram 11. Nathan Karamchand 5 for 11, Kemar Joseph 3 for 15. Achievers A – 108 for 5 in 21.5 overs. Ezekiel Rogers 38, Collis Hardcourt 30, and Nathan Karamchand 17. Christopher Baldeo 3 for 16 and Sataydeo Ramnarine 2 for 15.

Sports Club defeated West Berbice Police by 3 wickets in a highly-contested clash. West Berbice Police scored 192 all out in 31.2 overs, Kord Griffith 37, Lennox Williams 35 and Osbert Cain 33. Justin Doobay took 3 for 22 off 8 overs, R Hemraj 3 for 30 off 6 overs. In reply, Bush Lot United Sports Club reached 194 for 7 in 30.3 overs. Budhram Lakeram scored 40, C Ramnarine 30 and K Ally 25. G Grant grabbed 5 for 23 off 8 overs.

At Bush Lot, Bush Lot United Sports Club dethroned Achievers A by two wickets. Achievers A scored 220 all out off 37 overs. Sherwin McPherson topscored with 98, Shamal Angel 50, and Travis Perry 39. Navindra Persaud grabbed 4 for 39 off 8 overs for the hosts. In reply, Bush Lot United reached 221 for 8 in the 39th over, winning the game with three balls to spare. Asif Khan scored 36, Latchman Dhana 31 and Navindra Persaud 21. Bowling for Achievers A, Arthur Bailey grabbed 3 for 77 off 5.4 overs.

At Cotton Tree, Achievers thrashed Blairmont Remnants by 147 runs. Batting first, Achievers scored 296 all out off 30 overs, with Steffon Adams scoring a brilliant 84 and Arthur Bailey 76. Bowling for Blairmont Remnants, K Singh was the pick of the bowlers with 2 for 54 off 6 overs. In reply, Blairmont Remnants scored 149 all out off 23 overs. W Subhan scored 64 and D Singh 43. Bowling for Achievers, Omari Arthur, Shamal Angel, and Arthur Bailey grabbed two wickets apiece.

Bent Street’s line-up

California Square’s goalscorers

Avishkar Persaud

President Dr Irfaan Ali, via a social media post on Monday morning, made a call for corporate support of Guyana’s senior men’s and women’s national football teams, the Golden Jaguars and the Lady Jags.

The call comes just ahead of the Golden Jaguars’ CONCACAF Gold Cup 2023 campaign next month and the Lady Jags’ participation in the W Gold Cup qualifiers set to begin this September.

President Ali wrote, “I am calling on Corporate Guyana to back our national footballers, both men and women, in their quest to bring glory to our country. I am confident in their ability and will spare no

effort in giving them the best possible chance at being the best they can be. It is this shift from the unimaginable to the

Windwards complete 9-wicket win over Guyana in round 1 CG United Women’s Super50…

are set to commence their CONCACAF Gold Cup 2023 campaign, against Grenada on Saturday, June 17. Should the Golden Jaguars be successful in that encounter, they will progress to face Trinidad and Tobago or Guadeloupe for a chance to compete in Group D of the 2023 Gold Cup, which is set to kick off on June 25.

imaginable that needs us all to get on board. Let’s go, Golden Jaguars!!!”

The Golden Jaguars

Victory

On the other hand, the draw to ascertain groups for the Women’s Gold Cup qualifiers will be held on May 17. Guyana’s women are currently in Pot 1 of League B ahead of the draw. The winner of each League B group will progress to the preliminaries of the 2024 W Gold Cup set for February 17 to March 10, 2024.

Valley Royals win LABA U23 3x3 Championship

…Shi-oil, Guyana Breweries

Inc hailed for sponsorship

Guyana’s national women’s cricket team suffered a heavy defeat in their opening fixture of the CG United Women’s Super50 regional tournament, on Monday morning.

Qiana Joseph produced figures of 4-18 from 10 overs to assist the Windward Islands Women in routing the Guyanese team for just 80 runs in the 50-over contest.

Playing at the Conaree Cricket Centre, St Kitts and Nevis, the ladies from Windward Islands won the match-up by nine wickets, with 172 balls remaining.

Guyana batted first and were off to a commendable start, with a 24-run partnership between Mandy Mangru and Realeanna Grimmond before Mangru was sent back to the dugout by Pearl Etienne.

Mangru’s 18 from 25 balls and Grimmond’s eventual 20 from 39 deliveries were the only double figures for Guyana, as the next best score came

from Captain Shemaine Campbelle, who pitched in eight runs from 11 balls.

The Guyanese women were eventually all out for 79 in 27.1 overs. After from Joseph, Windwards Captain Afy Fletcher was the next best bowler, picking 2-10 from 5.1 overs.

In the chase, Windwards had an early stumble as Malika Edward was trapped by Plaffiana Millington for a duck. Nonetheless,

Namiah Marcellin and number three Fletcher struck up a solid partnership to lead the Windwards home. Fletcher struck 45 runs from 54 balls while Marcellin hit 28 from 74 deliveries on their way to the 80-run target.

Guyana will play their second-round match of the Super50 competition on Wednesday, May 10 against Barbados at the same venue.

SCOREBOARD

Guyana

Mandy Mangru (RHB) lbw

b Etienne 18

Realeanna Grimmond (RHB) c James b Joseph 20

Shemaine Campbelle (RHB) lbw b Joseph 8

Sheneta Grimmond (RHB) c Crafton b Fletcher 1

Shakibi Gajnabi (RHB) run out

Plaffiana Millington (RHB)

b Crafton

Kaysia Schultz (RHB) b Joseph 1

Ashmini Munisar (RHB)

c Etienne b Joseph

Nyia Latchman (LHB) not out

Katana Mentore (RHB) run

Cyanna Retemiah (LHB)

st Marcellin b Fletcher

Victory Valley Royals were crowned champions of the inaugural Linden Amateur Basketball Association (LABA) U23 3x3 tournament following their 14-4 win over Kid Rock Blazers on Saturday evening.

Royals, led by Yonnick Tappin, played undefeated in the seven-team tournament played at the Retrieve Hard Court, to win the first-place trophy, compliments of Guyana Breweries Inc.

While for most of the players, the LABA tournament was their first time playing the 3x3 format, Tappin was critical in helping Guyana win bronze at the Caribbean Games last year in Guadeloupe

when he teamed up with Stanton Rose Jr, Timothy Thompson, and Kimol Grimmond.

For Kid Rock Blazers, Teishaun Kitt, Jennis Benjamin, and Leslie Campbell finished top of their group to set up the showdown with the Royals, but they were outmuscled and outplayed.

LABA President Rawle Toney said he was impressed with the level of competition, and thanked the Colts basketball club for participating.

Toney also thanked local fuel importer and distributor Shi-Oil, along with Guyana Breweries Inc, for supporting the tournament.

The U23 3x3 tournament marks back-to-back

events in the LABA following the conclusion of the Kevin Joseph U23 club championship, which was won by Retrieve Raiders following a closely-contested final against Royals on Friday.

According to Toney, the LABA will start its league, followed by a series of tournaments, to keep the clubs and players in the mining town active.

“The LABA is encouraged by the level of support shown by the clubs and players in Linden, and as such, we intend to keep them active,” Toney said.

He added that the executive committee will meet with the clubs shortly to ascertain the way forward after the league.

Victory Valley Royals following their 14-4 win over Kid Rock Blazers in the LABA U23 3x3 final

Guyana’s Women will look to bounce back in their second-round match on Wednesday

President Dr Irfaan Ali