Guyana Times - Tuesday, September 19, 2022

1-year-old baby succumbs to head injuries

babysitter being questioned

One-year-old Raheem Fung of Circuitville, SoesdykeLinden Highway, who was on life support at the Georgetown Public Hospital, being treated for severe head injuries, succumbed to his injuries on Monday.

It was reported that the child was admitted to the medical institution after suffering from multiple head injuries. A 28-yearold babysitter of Yarrowkabra, Soesdyke-Linden Highway is being detained for questioning.

The sitter is the niece of the baby’s father, Kevin Fung. However, the baby reportedly sustained

the injuries between July 1 and September 15 at Yarrowkabra while in the care of the babysitter.

It was reported that the baby was left in care of the woman from Mondays to Saturdays due to the hectic work schedule of both parents.

However, during the month of August, the babysitter contacted the baby’s mother and informed her that the child had fallen and hit his head.

As such, he was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital with a swollen forehead. He was treated and sent away in a healthy condi-

tion, after which he remained in the care and custody of the 28-year-old woman.

Nevertheless, on September 15, at about 19:30h, the babysitter again contacted the baby’s mother, this time informing her that Raheem had seizure and lost consciousness.

He was taken to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre by his mother but was transferred to GPHC where he was subsequently admitted as a patient in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) on a life-support machine with multiple head injuries.

Investigations are ongoing.

Pharmacist found dead by teenage son

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of Juneann DeAbreu, a 36-year-old pharmacist of Nelson Street, Mocha, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

The woman’s body was found on Sunday at about 15:20h by her 15-year-old son.

Based on reports received, the teenager was in his bedroom completing his schoolwork and after some time, he ventured outside to inform his mother that there was no ink in the printer.

It was then he discovered his mother’s motionless body. He raised an alarm and persons in the area rushed to offer assistance.

The Police were also contacted. It is suspected the DeAbreu died by suicide since several distressing posts were found on her social media platform.

Nevertheless, a post-mortem examination will be performed on her body. Investigations are ongoing.

Dead: Raheem Fung

Dead: Juneann DeAbreu

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, Sep 19 – 04:00h –05:30h and Wednesday, Sep 20 – 04:00h – 05:30h.

Tuesday, Sep 19 – 06:25h – 07:55h and Wednesday, Sep 20 – 07:00h – 08:30h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.

WEATHER TODAY

There will be sunshine during the day. Expect clear skies at night. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 34 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to East North-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.47 metres.

High Tide: 06:47h and 18:57h reaching maximum heights of 2.62 metres and 2.64 metres.

Low Tide: 12:34h reaching a minimum height of 0.66 metre.

UN General Assembly Int’l financial architecture ‘out of sync’ with developing countries’ SDG needs – Pres Ali

For developing countries to achieve their Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the 2030 timeline, President Dr Irfaan Ali highlighted the need for greater finances as he drew attention to the failure of the international community to deliver on these commitments.

This was the stance of President Dr Irfaan Ali during his address at the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development under the auspices of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Monday.

According to the recent Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) report, the gap in financing to achieve four critical SDGs for Latin America and the Caribbean including access to water and sanitation, energy, building infrastructure to promote sustainable industrialisation, innovation, and making cities sustainable requires US$2.2 billion.

“The increased cost of financing, rising debt to GDP, and unsustainable balance sheets have placed the developing world in a precarious situation,” Ali contended.

LOTTERY NUMBERS

The GDP ratio in the LAC Region in 2022 was 117 per cent and inflation stood at 9.2 per cent. While Guyana’s expanded economy has allowed it to flourish and inject resources into key sectors such as health and education, it is not enough to achieve the SDGs.

“This is the situation of just one region in the world. Guyana’s expansion of our economy has allowed us to focus heavily on the SDGs. For example, investment per capita in health has increased by 62 per cent, in education by 64 per cent, and security by 153 per cent over a three-year period. But national commitment alone will not be alone to achieve the SDGs, especially for the poorest and most vulnerable.”

A major part of the problem, according to the Guyanese leader, has been a lack of progress on Goal 17, which speaks to revitalising the global partnership for sustainable development. He identified that there has been a failure on the part of the international community to deliver on its commitments.

“International financial commitments, be it the 0.7 of the Gross National Product for ODA – a commitment made 50 years ago, or the $100 billion annual commitment under the Paris Agreement to developing countries among others, have not been met. Additionally, our interna-

tional financial architecture is out of sync with the needs of developing countries and must be reformed.”

Ali drew attention to statistics that show developing countries are faced with higher food inflation –some five per cent greater than the rest of the world.

To compound this, the average interest on external borrowing is three times higher than that of developed nations.

“We will not have a world where everyone everywhere enjoys their full human rights, peace, and security and is free from poverty and hunger unless the right to development is realised and respected. Guyana believes

that significant progress can only be made in achieving the SDGs if national efforts are matched by commitments being fulfilled, and if an international environment is created that fosters progress for all.”

Critical to this is action on the Bridgetown Initiative, liquidity support, debt sustainability, development funding, and governance reforms of international financial institutions.

In July, Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh committed that in addition to the way Guyana has woven national development into successive budgets, more work will be done to improve essential infrastructure and public

services.

Dr Singh used the occasion to push for affordable financing for Guyana, noting that this means a redoubled global commitment. Notwithstanding these financial constraints, however, he made it clear that Guyana has made progress on the SDGs. According to Singh, the Government has invested in infrastructure to deliver water to over 30,000 residents in the hinterland. As such, the proportion of the hinterland with access to safe water has gone from 33.8 per cent in 2019 to 75 per cent as of the end of 2022. Removed value-added tax on water charges and reduced water tariffs across the board are also benefitting over 175,000 customers

In addition, work has started on 300 MW of new power generation capability, harnessing Guyana’s newfound gas resources. This will allow for a 50 per cent reduction in electricity costs to the population by 2025.

When it comes to Goal 11, which deals with sustainable cities and communities, Dr Singh spoke of the Government’s accelerated drive to distribute 50,000 house lots by 2025. He said that within recent years, over 24,000 house lots have been distributed, primarily to low- and middle-income households. (G-12)

President Irfaan Ali at the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development on Monday

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Enforcing legislation prohibiting firecrackers

Some years ago, the Government introduced legislation that prohibited the importation and use of squibs and explosives on the local market. This was after years of advocacy, especially from animal rights activists.

As Diwali is approaching, these items will be openly sold on the pavements and in the markets.

Every year, communities and villages are inundated with persons throwing firecrackers during Diwali, Christmas, and New Year’s celebrations.

The sale and/or purchase of such explosives is illegal under the Customs Act, amended by Act No 1 of 2005, and the Criminal Offences Act, Cap 8:02.

As a matter of fact, the sale and/or purchase of firecrackers commences since Diwali celebrations. Each year, it is hoped that the situation changes and that law enforcement agencies will make an example of the importers, sellers, and buyers.

These little devices are no different from bombs. Our Pet Care columnist, Dr Steve Surujbally, in one of his columns explaining the dangers these devices pose to animals, said, “…whether it is a firecracker or a squib, or any noise-making explosive, it hurts animals. Dogs and cats have sensitive ears. The noise from the explosions disorients and traumatises them. They don’t know what to do. They run indoors and try to hide in secluded places where they think there is security (bathrooms, under beds, in cupboards, etc). They hurt themselves. They run away from home. They jump off the verandah, break their legs or, worse, their necks, or damage their spinal cords, causing paralysis for life.”

In the past, persons have paid the price for failing to heed warnings to desist from playing with these explosives. Persons were left maimed, blind, and without limbs, among other irreparable harm caused when the firecrackers exploded in their faces. Sadly, even toddlers and children have suffered severe burns from either playing with firecrackers or coming into contact with those that were lit by other persons. Yet, despite these many disasters, and in the face of repeated warnings, Guyanese still play with these explosives.

A ban was imposed on all fireworks, and persons caught selling the devices could face fines and jail time, as could persons caught playing with the items. But if this year has been anything to go by, the Police have been incredibly weak in clamping down on this practice and in preventing the banned products from entering the country.

Diwali celebrations each year are greeted by an overwhelming number of dangerous firecrackers popping around the country. The excessive noise suggests that very little – if anything at all –has been done to ensure that the banned products are kept off the market. Too many citizens had banned firecrackers in their possession.

In some areas, young people assembled on the road, lit these explosives, and tossed them, being unconcerned about the dangers in which they were placing innocent people, and the damage they could have done. Motorists are often aggravated about this.

The wide use of firecrackers suggests that the products were easily available on the market, and the Police did not make it their duty to crack down on their illegal importation and sale.

The Police could say that tracking down illegal products and finding every seller of banned firecrackers in every nook and cranny in the country is difficult, perhaps impossible to do; but that is not what we had in mind. Our contention is that when it comes to smuggling, law enforcers are still not on top of the situation.

In previous years, when the Police targeted sellers of firecrackers in the lead-up to Diwali and Christmas celebrations, there was a major difference.

Playing with firecrackers is no longer fun. One of the major concerns about the practice is that citizens cannot distinguish between the sound of a firecracker popping and a gun being fired. So, the Police might want to start paying attention to issues of seemingly lesser consequence, but which in truth hold many dangers.

Findings of CFATF's 2-week assessment of Guyana being misrepresented

Dear Editor, The Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) on September 15, 2023, concluded its two-week on-site assessment of Guyana’s Anti-Money Laundering/Countering the Financing of Terrorism/ Countering Proliferation Financing (AML/CFT/CPF) architecture as part of the country’s international compliance obligations under the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) Standards and Methodology.

At the conclusion of the exercise, the mission leader of the Assessment Team, Ms Avelon Perry, Financial Advisor of the CFATF presented a summary of the team's initial high-level findings to the National Coordinating Committee (NCC).

In their report, the assessors lauded Guyana’s effort at identifying and mitigating money laundering/terrorism financing activities and highlighted policy decisions, including the enactment of key legislation, which has enabled the country to do so. They also mentioned shortcomings within the country’s AML/ CFT/CPF architecture, one of which is a need for increased resources for the Treaty Office within the Ministry of Home Affairs to effectively carry out its functions, noting however, that the country has demonstrated the ability to use formal and informal mechanisms for international cooperation.

In a section of the media on Monday, September 18, 2023, an article with the headline “CFATF assessment finds unified approach, resources to tackle money laundering lacking in Guyana” was published.

Nowhere in the report is there a finding that there is a lack of “resources to tackle money laundering in Guyana”. It would appear,

therefore, that the singular observation by the assessors of a need for increased resources for the Treaty Office within the Ministry of Home Affairs was ingeniously used to convey the impression that there is a lack of resources across the national AML/CFT spectrum. This constitutes a gross misrepresentation of the assessors’ finding which we take the opportunity to swiftly reject.

To put this into perspective, it should be noted that during the on-site evaluation, the Assessment Team interviewed various Ministers, Officials, and Heads of Agencies including from the Attorney General’s Chambers and the Ministry of Legal Affairs, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Judiciary, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Office of the Commissioner of Police.

Representatives from the Guyana Revenue Authority, the Deeds and Commercial Registry Authorities, the Central Bank of Guyana, the Guyana Securities Council, the Guyana Police Force, the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit, the Guyana Geology and Gold Mines Commission, the Guyana Gold Board, Real Estate Associations, local banks, insurance companies, accountants, and cambios were also interviewed. These organisations combined, among others, and their representatives form the country’s AML/CFT/CPF structure.

The AML/CFT NCC chaired by the Hon Mohabir Anil Nandlall SC MP, Attorney General & Minister of Legal Affairs has always demonstrated the

Government’s readiness and commitment to ensuring Guyana’s compliance with the FATF Standards and other international best practices aimed at protecting Guyana’s and the international financial systems from money laundering, terrorism financing, and proliferation financing and the proceeds of crime. This manifested through various measures, including the completion of Guyana’s 2021 AML/CFT/CPF National Risk Assessment, and the enactment of the Guyana Compliance Commission Act 2023, the Real Estate and Brokers Act 2023 and the AML/CFT (Amendment) Act 2023. Importantly, this has been done in a transparent manner, ensuring the public, with the support of the media, is continuously kept aware of the country’s ongoing efforts and activities to ensure its readiness to demonstrate full compliance with international expectations in this regard.

Professionals from public and private agencies and entities have worked tirelessly to ensure Guyana left no stone unturned so as to meet the expectations of international observers and regulators. In these regards, conscious of the effort placed into preparing for the on-site evaluation, the Guyana delegation found the preliminary findings of the Assessment Team to be favourable.

Noteworthy, most publications recognised the good work done by Guyana and the mostly favourable findings of the preliminary report as reflected by their headlines and extensive reports in every instance.

This, of course, is with the exception of the media outlet, whose headline and focus of their report sought to highlight the few shortcom-

ings and recommendations of the report of preliminary findings mentioned in a press release issued by the Attorney General’s Chambers and Ministry of Legal Affairs on September 17, 2023.

We do not believe that this is fair, based on the hard work put in by the Guyana team. The article and certainly its headline are therefore not an accurate reflection of the preliminary findings and the public statement released, and not a demonstration of good journalism by the media outlet.

The headline on its own sends a very inaccurate perception of the general findings of the review and to some degree the very article published by the local newspaper.

We are unsure of the motive behind the headline and the focus of the article. Whatever it may be, it is unfortunate. Unsurprisingly, its headline and highlights were also in drastic contrast to nearly 10 other reports by the public and private print and electronic media based on the same press release issued by the Attorney General’s Chambers and Ministry of Legal Affairs. This constitutes jaundiced reporting.

In closing, we again highlight that these are indeed preliminary findings of the CFATF on-site review shared based on our commitment to openness and transparency. The report will now go through multiple iterations of updates and reviews over the next few months. The final report of Guyana’s Mutual Evaluation will be completed and approved at the CFATF Plenary scheduled for Trinidad and Tobago in May of 2024.

Sincerely, Ministry of Legal Affairs

This Mike Charles Photo captured sections of Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) including the Vreed-en-Hoop Shore Base that is presently being constructed by NRG Holdings Inc for ExxonMobil

Presidential press conferences

Dear Editor, PNC Member of Parliament, Annette Ferguson has berated me for what she describes as “disrespect for the female journalist”, referring, I believe, to Stabroek News reporter Marcel Thomas. I beg to differ.

In fact, I happen to regard Ms Thomas as one of our more current professional journalists.

When the President answered the question put

by Ms Thomas on the subject of the Chancellor and Chief Justice, she did not like the answer and, rather than reframe her question to probe further, she attempted to debate the President, at which point I intervened as the Moderator.

There is a distinct difference which I doubt Ms Ferguson understands between an interview and a press conference. In a oneon-one interview, the jour-

nalist is within his or her rights to express disagreement with a statement made by the person being interviewed if it is patently wrong because the conversation is free-flowing. In a press conference, in contrast, with a large number of journalists present and asking questions, the journalist has a professional responsibility to ask questions, not debate, so that others may have their turn.

I have written on this subject before when previously targeted by the Press Association, simply because, in fact, as the Moderator I expect a certain degree of professionalism at presidential press conferences and, as Ms Ferguson acknowledges, I act from the experience of having over many years been on both sides of that fence. The press conferences which I have moderated include, for instance,

More spays; less strays!

Dear Editor, Time and again, there have been numerous calls from the general public to have animals, both large and small, removed from the streets. This missive will zoom in on small animals, ie, dogs and cats. The large animals, such as horses, cattle, and pigs, are an entirely different kettle.

Editor, only those who are directly involved will ever truly understand. It is an endless daily battle. Any attempt to educate society about the importance of animal well-being and welfare is an uphill task since oftentimes, the welfare of an animal is perceived as inferior to that of humans.

Editor, the sad reality in Guyana is that there are simply not enough homes for all the animals, and shelters are out of space. Shelters are filled beyond their capacity. There is simply not enough space or resources to house all the animals that are dumped and abandoned on a daily basis. On any given day, an average of about 15 kittens and puppies are surrendered to any of the local shelters, the GSPCA might have a higher number. Now, multiply that number by 7 and you get the reality. There is simply not enough space!

For those that are not surrendered, they are dumped every day. Some are placed in bags and dumped in trenches or by the roadside. Some are dumped at garbage dumps. Some were killed by the very owners. These pups and kittens are left to the elements of nature, diseases, and parasites. No one cares for them. No one to shelter or provide for them. Their next meal is not guaranteed and their illnesses get progressively worse. Internal parasites proliferate. Attacks from older animals left them wounded. Attacks from humans, who despise them, are even worse - chops, poison, burns etc. Left untreated, their wounds become infected and infested, and their diseases and parasites are then spread

to our pets and, in some instances, to us humans.

When animals are placed in overcrowded shelters, that also comes with its complications. Reduced personal space for animals increases their stress levels and encourages fighting and obsessive-compulsive disorders (Stereotypies) such as clawing, biting, head butting, teeth grinding and gnawing etc. Overcrowding also increases the incidence of diseases and disease spread amongst shelter animals.

Editor, in some cases euthanasia is inevitable. Euthanasia is never an easy option but it can be the most humane option. Euthanasia saves an animal from such torment. But again, it's one of the hardest decisions to make. It is, however, the last option. This procedure is fast and painless, for the animal, but never for the veterinarian performing the procedure nor shelter workers or rescuers who are the ones who have to make the decision to euthanise.

Editor, there is a better alternative to euthanasia. It is a surgical procedure that prevents your dogs and cats from having unwanted litter of pups and kittens. If people really care about their animals and do not wish to have kittens or pups, a conscious sacrifice must be made to have these procedures done. Spaying and neutering are surgical procedures done under general anaesthesia and should only performed by a licensed veterinarian. In the females, a small incision is made to gain entry into the abdominal cavity, and the ovaries and uterus are removed. In the males, a small incision is made under the belly and the testicles are removed. Recovery from this surgery is usually rapid with minimal complications. Your pet will return to their normal activities within 24 hours after the procedures. If you have questions and concerns, you are free to consult with your veterinarian about same.

The benefits of having these procedures done are many; no pups or kittens, no birth complications, reduced incidences of reproductive tumours, reduced aggressive dominant behaviours in males and females, less straying and injuries related to straying, eliminated urine territory markings by tom cats and a longer healthier life for your pets are just a few to mention.

But with all surgical procedures, there are risks related, some of which include post-surgical bleeding, infection of the incision site, and in rare cases, allergic reaction to the anaesthetic used. However, there is less than a 1% chance of your pet developing complications, once carried out by a licensed veterinarian.

Book an appointment with your local veterinarian to get these procedures done. Also, there are numerous animal welfare organisations and animal

activists that conduct lowcost spay and neuter clinics. Please contact your local animal welfare organisation or activist to get help.

Here is a list of some of the welfare groups operating in Guyana that conduct low-cost spay and neuter campaigns and they can be contacted via social media.

Tails of Hope - Animal Rescue

Paws for a CauseGuyana

Guyana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA)

Rosewood Foundation

Fureva Hope Alive

Also, you can do your part by adopting or fostering an animal, donating food, cleaning agents, and toys, or volunteering your time at a local shelter or with an activist in your area.

Sincerely,

Anurama Ramgobin

Tails of Hope Animal Rescue

those hosted by Former US President Jimmy Carter, and the late Duke of Edinburgh when they visited Guyana.

In my previous letter on this subject, I quoted the description of a press conference by ABC News Reporter Irving Fang since 1968 and it’s worth requoting: “A kind of courtship dance which the interviewer and his subject feint, parry and manoeuvre around the topic, circle gradually coming closer together until the climactic moment of thrust and response.”

In another book, Freedom of the News Media by Olga G and Edwin P Hoyt, published in 1973, to which I have also previously referred, it’s pointed out that: “Freedom of the press did not mean – as some newsmen seem to think it did - that officials or oth -

ers were bound to love or even respect any segment of the press. But then neither was it ever incumbent on the news media to love or even respect any segment of the government. The members of each side would have love or respect as they deserved it; such matters could not be guaranteed.”

In my view, we have made progress. We have established a Presidential Press Corp selected by the media houses themselves. At the last press conference, every journalist fully exhausted the questions they came prepared to ask. There was once a time when the Kaieteur News would come to a press conference with four reporters attempting to railroad the press conference. No more of that nonsense.

Yours sincerely, Kit Nascimento

Test Questions

BY ZAKARIA MOHAMMED

TRANSLATED BY LENA KHALAF TUFFAHA

Do you think it is possible to put an egg inside a bottle with an opening that is smaller than the egg? In this fun and easy science experiment, we’re going to show you how to put an egg inside a bottle. Being able to do this seemingly impossible task may appear magical but we will show you it’s just science.

Important – This experiment requires adult assistance and supervision due to the use of matches.

Materials:

A bottle with a wide mouth –check to make sure that the egg is slightly larger than the opening of the bottle

Hardboiled egg

3 matches

Small piece of paper – about one inch by one inch

Instructions:

Place the egg on top of the bottle to demonstrate that the egg will not fit inside.

Now remove the egg.

Drop the piece of paper inside the bottle. Have an adult assistant strike the three matches together until they burst into flame.

Have the adult quickly drop the matches inside the bottle.

Immediately set the egg onto the top of the bottle making sure it is sitting snuggly.

As the matches go out, observe what happens to the egg.

How it works:

The matches heat up the air inside the bottle. This causes the air to expand and some of it even escapes. Once the matches go out, the air inside the bottle cools and contracts. This lowers the air pressure inside the bottle. The higher air pressure outside of the bottle seems to magically push the egg inside.

Make this a science project: Are there other ways to reduce the air pressure inside the bottle and cause the egg to go inside? (sciencefun.org)

I sing of you, migrating heron. I sing of your whiteness and your sauntering gait in fallow land.

And I sing of you, resident hoopoe. I sing of your little crown as you gather seeds from a plowed field. This is how I am, my song is confused, it plants one foot in fallow land and another in plowed fields. Sometimes I recite the resident’s prayer, other times the prayer of the traveler. Translated from the Arabic

WORD SEARCH

LCDS strikes balance for sustainable wealth creation – Pres Ali

The Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS)

2030 was a topic of discussion on Monday, with a former Colombian President even praising the initiative during the Concordia Annual Summit, Plenary Session themed “Underneath the Green Transition: The Oil Industry.”

President Dr Irfaan Ali, who is in New York for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), also held discussions on the sidelines that centred on Guyana’s oil-producing future. One of the observations made by the President during his appearance at the plenary session is that enough progress is not being made in discussing reaching net-zero with stakeholders and the developed world.

“The conversation along net-zero has been derailed to the extent that it has now become a conversation on how to end petroleum and not how do we create a balanced set of policies and programmes to achieve net-zero in a sustainable way,” President Ali explained.

Guyana is already poised to lead the Net Zero by 2050 Agenda, through its robust plans for energy security and renewable generation, while continuously recording increased economic pros-

perity. The United Nations Global Roadmap sets out the target that the world must achieve net zero emissions by 2050. It involves balancing the amount of greenhouse gas produced and the amount removed from the atmosphere.

At the annual Caribbean Sustainable Energy Conference last year President Ali had shared

that energy security remains central to net-zero and that his Government is already undertaking efforts to create an onshore low-carbon economy, that will further cut emissions while maintaining environmental sustainability.

LCDS

The developing world has had to find creative ways of achieving sustainable de-

velopment and helping to bridge the divide between the developed and developing world, with Guyana’s LCDS 2030 being one example. According to President Ali on Monday, there are innate disparities between the developed and developing world, which must be bridged.

“Take for example, in the era of modernisation and mechanisation, the de-

veloping world was left behind. Because the developing world did not have the capital to mechanise. The developed world went ahead and mechanised. They became more competitive. Now we have digitisation,” the President said.

“Again, widening the gap between the developing world and the developed world. Who is going to finance that gap? When are the developing countries going to get the full opportunity to exploit their resources to ensure they can survive in this highly competitive environment? That is why the balance is required.”

According to President Ali, the LCDS is a holistic approach to finding that balance, in terms of managing the environment, ensuring the livelihood of the people, promoting economic wealth, and creating and bridging inequality. He noted that the strategy ensures that the aspirations of Guyanese are met in a balanced approach.

Guyana’s ability to market its Low Carbon Development Strategy also came in for praise from former Colombian President Ivan Duque, who shared the stage with President Ali. He made it clear that with the volume of initiatives

Guyana is trying to achieve, including the energy transition and fulfilling development needs, financing is imperative.

“We need to finance the transition, not only the energy transition, the economic transition, in a sustainable way. As President Ali mentioned, I’m really impressed by his efforts to keep on promoting the Low Carbon Development Strategy by being a zero-deforestation country, having 40 per cent of the land in the hands of Indigenous communities with land titles and trying to change the energy matrix so that they don’t depend on oil to generate electricity.”

“Guyana is also a food security provider for the Caribbean and the Region. Guyana is an energy security provider. And they need these resources to allow for better education, better health, and better infrastructure. So, I think having that balance is possible,” the former Colombian Head of State explained.

Duque served as President of Colombia from 2018 to 2022. For its part, Colombia has been able to develop green financing, increase its protected areas from 14 per cent to 34 per cent, and establish a voluntary carbon market.

President Dr Irfaan Ali (centre) and former Colombian President Ivan Duque appeared as panellists at Concordia’s Annual Summit to discuss “Underneath the Green Transition: The Oil Industry” on Monday

...says not enough progress being made on net-zero discussions

Fisherman found guilty of burning crew members to death in 2011

cuted the case.

It was reported that Motilall and Fernandes departed to go fishing but were instead set on fire by the suspect. Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome, brought on by the men’s severe burn injuries, was listed as their cause of death.

For the murders, Mohanlall was initially charged in 2011 and remanded to prison. He was committed to stand trial at the High Court in March

Stoking divisions...

...on race

Your Eyewitness is very disappointed – but not really surprised – about the continuous harping on “race” by the PNC and their camp followers to “explain” everything negatively perceived as happening in Guyana. In fact, if these accounts are to be believed, race ain’t no variable any longer in our dear mudland, but a constant! Fella gets robbed as he staggers home from the rum shop. Race! Cocaine discovered in saltfish? Race!

Aformer Fyrish Village, Corentyne, Berbice fisherman, Ravindranauth Mohanlall was recently found guilty of two counts of murder following a trial at the High Court in Berbice.

For the 2011 murders of

Beeram Motilall, 45, known as “Boy,” of Chesney Village, Corentyne, and Renard Fernandes, also known as “Renny,” 15, of Rose Hall Town Reef, Corentyne, 63-year-old Ravindranauth Mohanlall was on trial before Justice Sandil Kissoon and a jury.

Police stated that the

incident occurred between September 6 and September 12, 2011, on the sea near Bush Lot Village, Corentyne. Mohanlall will be sentenced on October 5.

The now-convicted killer was represented by Attorney-at-Law Stacy Goodings while State Counsel Muntaz Ali prose-

DPP orders inquest into death of lad crushed by reversing truck

So, it wasn’t surprising that when Pres Ali and his team went to Washington to brief our American allies on our positions on the burning international issues du jour, the PNC used their “in” with Democratic House leader Hakeem Jeffries to raise the issue of race in Guyana with the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC)!! Well, actually, it was only Jeffries who said he raised the issue – with a post on his Facebook page. Referring to the meeting with Pres Ali, he wrote, “During the meeting, we discussed several critical issues, including…the importance of an inclusive society in Guyana that involved full economic participation and civic engagement by Guyanese-Africans and Guyanese-Indians. We also discussed electoral reform (and) strengthening democratic institutions.”

This was contradicted, however, by the official release of the CBC which stated they had a “productive” meeting and discussed “a range of global issues, including energy and food security, enhancing regional economic prosperity, and the importance of sustainability and environmental stewardship.” Not a word about Guyana’s internal politics – especially on race!! This, not so incidentally, is the topic that led to their formation to highlight and address racial problems in the USA in Congress. But they are mature enough to understand the protocols of the international order – which the USA has done so much to build – and evolved a general consensus on non-interference in the affairs of independent countries!!

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has ordered that a Coroner’s Inquest be held into the death of 13-year-old Rovin Mark Williams, who was killed after falling from a reversing truck.

Williams, a former student of Suddie Primary School and of Onderneeming, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), was on June 12, in a canter truck along with another person when the driver started to reverse the vehicle. This publication understands that the young man fell out of the tray and into the path of the rear wheels of the canter.

As a result, he sustained injuries and was immediately taken to the Suddie Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead. He suffered a fractured skull and several broken bones.

An inquest is a judicial inquiry in common law jurisdictions, particularly one held to determine if anyone is to be held liable for a person’s death. The inquest is likely to commence soon before a Magistrate.

Reports are that Williams would usually aid in loading and offloading a businessman’s canter. The incident occurred as the world observed World Day Against Child Labour.

As such, it’s extremely unfortunate that Rep Jeffries is using his bully pulpit to push his personal agenda inspired by his close relations with one of the most rabid PNC partisans in NYC. Guyana suffered for 28 years when the US interfered with our internal affairs because of fears of communists taking over Guyana. The US administrations since have been very careful to stress the importance of democratic governance in maintaining a stable world order. And while it helps with democracy building – as for instance to stand tall to call for the will of the people exercised by their votes to prevail in 2020 – they preach un-substantive non-interference.

Rep Jeffries said he’ll be coming to Guyana with a delegation – at Pres Ali’s invitation - and will be meeting with the Opposition. No problemo!! But your Eyewitness hopes he doesn’t put his foot in his mouth and adopt the PNC’s line on race here – because of his personal friendship.

That ain’t the American way!!

...by the PNC

Back in 2015, the PNC had proclaimed a “post-race” Guyana after they’d coalesced with the AFC to form the coalition that squeezed into Government that year. After decades of insisting they’d “won” elections with massive majorities under Burnham and Hoyte because of their support from all the races of Guyana, Sanctimonious PNC leader Granger conceded his base hadn’t ever expanded! He needed the Indian Guyanese (11%?) from the AFC to make themselves “National”! Never mind that the AFC also insisted it was “multiracial”, like the PNC of yore!

And so the “post-race” PNC promptly overwhelmingly hired only African Guyanese as Permanent Secretaries, Ministers, Government Boards, Contract workers, Contractors (excepting Harmon’s bestie, BK!) and finally fired some 2000 Indigenous Community Workers and 7000 mainly Indian Guyanese sugar workers!! The PNC insisted that those who complained were just racist troublemakers, stuck in the past! Channelling Tina Turner, they snorted, “What’s race got to do with it?”

Does Jeffries know these facts??

...hobbling labour

With Guyana open for business and finally having something the Multi-National Corporations (MNCs) can get their teeth into, shouldn’t the umbrella trade union bodies bury the hatchet and form a united front?

Guilty: Ravindranauth Mohanlall

Murdered: Renard Fernandes Murdered: Beeram Motilall

Dead: Rovin Mark Williams

$135M in grants distributed to schools in Regs 5, 6

The Education Ministry’s school grants initiative continued on Monday in Regions Five (MahaicaBerbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), which saw $135 million being distributed.

The grants were distributed to 72 schools in Region Five, amounting to $47 million. In Region Six, $85 million was distributed to 129 schools. This caters to 954 children in Region Five and 1653 in Region Six.

The monies are going directly into the hands of teachers who are tasked to improve their students’ learning experiences. In Region Five some 9200 children stand to benefit while in Region Six 21,354 children will benefit.

The grant is being distributed under three headings - janitorial, office, and field - with $1000 per child for janitorial and $3000 for office and field needs.

The funds can be used for various purposes such as purchasing items needed to keep the environments clean, office supplies such as charts/cardboards/chalk, or whatever needs the teacher believes need to be filled.

Each teacher will be getting $4000 per child on the coastland while the $5500 per child will be distributed in the hinterland and riverine communities.

The initiative was officially launched last week in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara).

However, on Monday, Education Minister Priya Manickchand during the distribution exercise explained that the monetary grant is aimed at addressing the constant calls by teach-

ers for school items to be used in the classrooms.

School supplies had been coming through the regional administration and had not been meeting all of the needs of the teachers.

“Your Region got $50 million for all of you for one year.

I am bringing here today $47 million for one term,” Minister Manickchand told Head Teachers in the Mahaica-Berbice region.

She noted that giving the teachers the money directly would give more indepen-

Over 2200 traffic offences recorded last week

– 652 for speeding, 55 for DUI

For the week of September 10 to 16, a total of 2247 traffic cases were made out against errant drivers across all Police Divisions throughout the country.

The aim is to ensure safer roads for travel by all.

This exercise saw traffic ranks engaging the schools, markets, liquor restaurants and bars, bus parks and more importantly, the communities.

Of the 2247 cases, speeding accounted for 652 while driving under the influence (DUI) accounted for 55.

Convictions have been obtained in a few of the charges, with fines ranging from $60,000 to $200,000.

While motorists are per-

Traffic Chief Mahendra Singh

mitted to use the road, they are reminded that doing so with due care and caution for themselves and other road users remains un-

changed.

Pedestrians are forewarned not to use the regulation crossing without observing the road, as ignorance is not an excuse.

Traffic Chief, Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh said Traffic ranks will continue to engage the all-important public at varying times daily to realise the change demanded to reduce accidents/wanton loss of lives.

Bar owners are also encouraged to resist ‘sale for profit’ and practice responsible business ethics, which can save lives. For the past few weeks, over 20 persons have lost their lives on Guyana’s roadways, most of whom are teenagers.

dence them, and allow them to choose what they want to use.

“If you have a class or school with less than 56 children, you will get the value of 56 children - $224,000 because although it is a small number of children, you still have cleaning, you still have to make aids and all those things to do,” she pointed out.

To ensure a transparent process, Minister Manickchand told the Head Teachers that a list would be provided to guide teachers on their purchases while encouraging them to utilise the grant in innovative ways.

“This has to be strictly

accounted for so in the same manner whereby you have accounted for public monies you have to account for this. We want you to get receipts from where you bought stuff and it is going to be audited.”

In some sections of society, there have been calls urging the teachers not to take the money, claiming that it is insufficient and that teachers should demand $50,000 per child.

Responding to this development, the Minister reiterated that the funds will help greatly. The initiative will be taken to all the administrative regions in the coming weeks. (Andrew Carmichael)

Minister Manickchand interacting with pupils at one of the schools

Teachers of Region Six during the distribution exercise

Education Minister Priya Manickchand in discussion with some of the teachers in Region 5

3-day GPS exhibition set for September 29 to October 1

Athree-day exhibition aimed at showcasing the ‘talents’ of inmates from the various prisons across the country will be hosted from September 29 to October 1 at the National Cultural Centre Tarmac, Hadfield Street, Georgetown.

The initiative forms part of the 40th Thanksgiving Anniversary of the Guyana Prison Service (GPS).

Under the theme “Promoting Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Prisoners,” the exhibition will provide inmates with a platform to express their commitment to their fami-

lies and society and to showcase their talent in various areas.

Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot said the exhibition will also give some insight into the positive developments that have been going on in the prison system.

“This exhibition will not only showcase the positive developments, but it will also showcase the depth of innovation and creativity by the inmates,” Elliot explained in a release to the media.

The Prison Head added, “the Prison system is progressively being trans-

formed from an institution focused on crime and punishment to one that is focused on criminal justice, correction and rehabilitation.”

Some of the items made by inmates culminate with the Prisons in Concert programme at the National Cultural Centre where inmates will further showcase their talents in the form of dance, song, poetry and stand-up comedy.

Booths will showcase various items ranging from tailoring, arts and crafts, leathercraft, agriculture, cosmetology, culinary arts, training, events décor and carpentry.

Prior to the exhibition, Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn will deliver the feature address at the Service’s Thanksgiving Anniversary and Church Service.

However, the event will

Elliot pointed out that the prison directorate has opted for such proactive ex-

ercises to further empower inmates and encourage the preservation of the many talents within the prisons.

“What you will see is the revelation of some really talented people. It will be an evening full of fun and really uplifting for the inmates, taking into consideration

their circumstances.”

The event will bring the curtains down on the Guyana Prison Service’s 40th Thanksgiving Anniversary celebrations. The public is encouraged to support this event, which is free at cost. The Prisons in Concert is billed for 18:00h.

US, Guyana collaborate with NGOs to assist Linden residents

Representatives of the United States Embassy in Guyana and non-governmental organisations - Guyana Medical Relief, Guyana Cancer Society, and Food For The Poor recently hosted a medical outreach for residents in Linden in collaboration with the Linden Hospital.

As part of its ongoing humanitarian assistance partnership with Guyana, the US Embassy donated seven air-conditioning units to the paediatric sec-

tion of the Linden Hospital, thus providing a more comfortable setting for children receiving care.

Additionally, members of the US Embassy Humanitarian Assistance Program collaborated to bring medical assistance to over 250 residents of Linden at the Linden Hospital.

Linden residents received ophthalmology, gynaecology and dental care along with blood testing, and food donations.

“We are proud to partner with the Government

of Guyana and local NGO partners to increase resources, availability of care, and essential services to improve the quality of life for residents,” a release from the US Embassy stated.

This collaboration highlights the US Embassy’s initiatives and commitment to strengthen partnerships within Guyana’s health sector and to work with the Government of Guyana at all levels to support enhanced public health for the people of Guyana.

US Embassy representatives present air-conditioning units to Linden Hospital

Pres Ali proposes eco-tourism park for Batavia, Reg 7

as part of plan for developing hinterland’s eco-tourism potential

The People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government has floated plans for the building out of an eco-tourism park in the hinterland community of Batavia, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), as part of Guyana’s drive to enhance its tourism credentials.

These plans were announced by President Dr Irfaan Ali while attending the opening Heritage Day celebrations in the Region Seven community on Sunday. According to the President, it is a project that his brainchildMen on Mission - initiative could execute.

“The Minister (of Amerindian Affairs) would have covered all the important areas, but one of the most important things about this area, the Toshao would have spoken to me about, so after this week, what do we do with this area? Perhaps, with the Men on a Mission, we can work on creating the first what we will term an eco-friendly, eco-tourism park with the community.”

“And that is a park that will demonstrate how you can enjoy leisure, how you can enjoy health tourism within a natural framework. Within the heart of an eco-facility. So that is something we would love to work with you on.”

President Ali also re -

called a conversation he had with the President of the Tourism Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), Dee George. According to him, there is a need to make better use of infrastructure… both temporary and permanent, for tourism purposes.

“I was saying to the President of THAG… perhaps we too have to make better use of the infrastructure that we build at events like these. For example, the beautiful tents that you would have built Batavia was selected as the heritage village for this year’s edition of Amerindian Heritage Month. As such, the village

will be the centre of the Heritage Day village celebrations. The month-long activities will conclude with Amerindian heritage sports on October 1.

Guyana’s eco-tourism potential continues to be explored. Since 2021, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government had announced its intention to seek out investors to develop luxury-branded eco-tourism facilities throughout the country.

As the Government continues to engage investors on the possibility of developing luxury eco-lodges in Guyana, some potential investors recently visited several interior locations

to scope out the opportunities.

Over the years, the Irfaan Ali-led Administration has had discussions with a number of interested investors and according to Tourism Minister Oneidge Walrond earlier this month, this interest continues to grow.

While no firm decision has been taken, Walrond had revealed that the Government has recommended several suitable locations for possible investments. It has been reported that the development of a ‘world-class’ eco-resort is needed to meet the demands of Guyana’s growing tourism industry.

It was also noted that

the eco-resort will be linked to the ‘sun, sand and sea’ concept. Walrond revealed that the construction of the tourism and hospitality training institute has begun with secured funding of US$11.6 million from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).

Further, the Minister noted that very soon some thirty (30) persons will be sent to Barbados to be trained in the area of tourism and hospitality, and upon their return, they will train other persons in the tourism sector in Guyana. Similarly, partnerships with St Lucia are also moving apace to enhance the tourism experience in both countries.

President Dr Irfaan Ali poses with residents during his recent trip to Batavia

Best graduating HWLS student, Guyanese Rea Harris urges classmates to unite to effect change

The Trinidad-based Hugh Wooding Law School (HWLS) graduating class of 2023 valedictorian, Rea Harris, a Guyanese national, delivered her speech on Saturday last, urging her classmates to let their voices be heard and to unite to effect change.

“We will use the law as a social institution and as a mechanism to handle the social plights in the Caribbean that are unique to Caribbean

territories. As we go out, we will be concerned with the constitutional frameworks that make up each of our territories,” Harris told her fellow graduates.

She added, “We will let our voices be heard. We will unite as brothers and sisters to effect changes and to advocate for many things...”

Supporting the Caribbean Court of Justice’s (CCJ’s) Appellate Jurisdiction, which will

replace The Judicial Committee of the Privy Council as Commonwealth Caribbean Member States’ last appellate court, is one of the many things that must be done, she pointed out.

She reminded the class that their successful completion of the law school’s Legal Education Certificate (LEC)—the final academic qualification to practise as an Attorney-at-Law in the Anglophone Caribbean—is a victory to be celebrated as it is a representation of how hard work and diligence pays off.

Reflecting on the comradely nature of students attending the institution, Harris expressed, “May our bond remain as strong as ever, and may we always remember how we would have helped each other climb this ladder. May you add this

qualification to your toolkit and utilise it to effect positive changes in the law and legal systems of the Caribbean.”

“Each one of us is capable of enhancing the regional jurisprudence of the Caribbean. And I am excited to see the direction in which each of you will steer your ship next.”

The Council of Legal Education (CLE) first welcomed students to the Hugh Wooding Law School

in September 1973, which was 50 years ago. The Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad and Tobago,

50 years to be “even more fruitful.”

Apart from being named the law school’s best-graduating student, Harris also copped the Mediation Board of Trinidad and Tobago Prize for Excellence in Mediation Studies, the Book Specialists Prize for Best Overall Performance – Academic and Extracurricular Activities – and the Book Specialists Prize for Second Outstanding Year II Student.

While reading for her LEC, Harris completed her law school in-service training at the Attorney General’s Chambers in Georgetown.

Norman Manley Law School in Jamaica, and Eugene Dupuch Law School in The Bahamas are all run by the regional organisation known as the CLE.

Harris was in high praise of the HWLS, asserting that it is the epitome of a world-leading centre of academic excellence. Her hope is for the law school’s next

She completed her Bachelor of Laws at the University of Guyana (UG), attaining a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.8 on a 4.0 GPA Scale, and was named the Law Department’s best-graduating student in 2021. For this stellar accomplishment, she was presented with the Pro Chancellor’s Award by Education Minister Priya Manickchand.

Rea Harris addressing her classmates over the weekend

The Hugh Wooding Law School Guyana graduating class of 2023 (PC: Christopher Anthony Belfield/Facebook)

MoH to tackle substance abuse, addiction as new mental health programme launched

EHR systems, a National Data Prevention Act has been established.

“Now because we’ve been collecting data in such a manner, we want to prevent data breaches and so we’ve passed legislation called the National Data Protection Act and in this, if someone takes someone’s personal information and leaks it or uses it in a very irresponsible way, then that person starting fine would be GY$20M,

The Health Ministry recently launched the Mental Health and Psychosocial Wellbeing and Development of Children and Adolescents Programme in Guyana with heavy emphasis on addiction and substance abuse.

The new programme is being executed through a collaborative effort from the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF).

It aims to address and break the inter-generational cycle of poor mental health and transform mental health outcomes in Guyana for both current and future generations.

During the launch on Friday, subject Minister, Dr Frank Anthony underscored, “Substance abuse, alcohol abuse, we want to do a lot more work in this area. Right now, if somebody needs to get some help, there are basically two NGOs that offer that type of help. That is the Salvation Army and Phoenix Recovery. That is not good enough because we’re seeing more and more cases of people who need

this kind of help. Therefore, one component of this programme is really to look at addiction and how we can prevent addiction from happening.”

Dr Anthony noted that the Ministry is working on establishing a comprehensive national strategy to combat mental health in Guyana and it is not being handled in a piecemeal way.

“While we implement the new legislation, we want to have a comprehensive national strategy on mental health to make sure that what is captured in the law, we now have in our mental health strategy. So, one of the core principles we want to look at is the deinstitutionalising of patients who have been institutionalised…We also want to make sure that mental health services are integrated with primary healthcare and that we have preventative centres for these patients since they will need a safe place for counselling,” he explained.

In addition, he reiterated that very soon the project for the billing of an Electronic Health Record system will be launched, making it easier to have a handle on sta-

tistics and health trends on a national level.

“We are launching very soon a project whereby we want to bill out an electronic health record system. The idea behind this is that every person who would have an interface with the public health system when they come to us will have a unique identifier and their patient data will be collected. If the patients go to a hospital in Berbice, Essequibo or even Linden, the same system will be used. So you don’t have to go to one place and then bring your physical record to Georgetown for them to see,” the Minister added.

To protect a patient’s data and information, with the establishment of the

while an institution that

does the breech, starting fine will be GY$100M,” he highlighted.

The seven regional hospitals will have accommodation to house acute psychiatric patients.

Deputy Representative of UNICEF Guyana and Suriname, Irfan Akhtar highlighted that this programme is in keeping with one of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Mental Health Protection and Promotion Bill 2022 was passed in the National Assembly

on August 8 of this year. Enshrined in the law is a series of rights for mental health patients, including access to care.

The Act provides for the mental healthcare of persons suffering from mental illness and protects, promotes and fulfils the rights of those persons during the delivery of mental healthcare. Additionally, it seeks to promote the mental health and well-being of persons in Guyana and to ensure that all persons receive the best mental healthcare.

Labourer allegedly drowns in Grove canal

The lifeless body of 65-year-old Goolcharran Shivcharran, a labourer of Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was pulled from a canal on Monday. It is believed that the man may have drowned.

Police stated that the man reportedly left his home at about 08:00h but his body was discovered at about 13:30h.

The now dead man reportedly lived with his 60-year-old wife and was known as a heavy drinker of alcohol.

Police stated that the man’s son-in-law told investigators that he was at home and at about 13:30h, he received a telephone call from a neighbour who informed him that his father-in-law was found in a nearby drain. The caller

stated that the man was not breathing.

The son-in-law rushed to the area where the body was spotted. The Police were summoned to the scene and the body was retrieved from the drain.

Upon inspection, there were no marks of violence on the body. It was taken to the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home awaiting post-mortem.

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony at the launch

A section of the gathering at the launch

Deputy Representative of UNICEF Guyana and Suriname, Irfan Akhtar addressing the gathering

Sophia residents now trained in plumbing, IT among other skills

she said.

For 16-year-old Issac Booker, the training has enabled him to develop a career in plumbing.

“The training was good; I learned a lot. I enjoyed it, and it feels nice to have graduated. I will use this training to find a job, and learn a trade,” he said.

Gavin Sealey commended the Government’s resolve in making this programme available for every Guyanese.

“There is no harm in trying. You can’t fail if you don’t try, and even if you fail, try again.”

These were the words of an elated Tenicia HamiltonFraser, as she wielded a certificate of achievement in plumbing, and a trophy for Best Graduating Trainee, setting the foundation for a potential career in the industry.

Hamilton-Fraser was among the 71 Sophia residents who graduated from Board of Industrial Training (BIT) programmes, follow-

ing a rigorous 16-week marathon of instruction.

The graduates received certificates in the fields of Welding and Fabrication, Plumbing, Information Technology, and Electrical Installation.

Hamilton-Fraser related that in her continuous quest for knowledge, she thought it necessary to explore this avenue to equip herself with a well-rounded education. “It was informative, and a very good experience. I gained both knowledge and a new skill. Things I didn’t even know

about plumbing, I know now, so it was fun overall,” she said.

She added that this new knowledge will empower her, as she can utilise it in domestic life.

“One of the reasons I took this opportunity is that sometimes people come to do this kind of work for you and they take advantage because you don’t know much about it. So, this training prepared me to deal with it. I’m thinking about furthering this certificate at the technical institute, and then going into practice,”

“My experience was quite welcoming. It taught me a lot in expanding my abilities, and I learned a lot. I would like to use this knowledge to start my own plumbing company so that I will be able to expand my business. I would encourage others to take up this opportunity because the sky is the limit, because the course is free, and the Government is reaching out to all citizens. So, I would encourage them to take this opportunity,” he said.

Another graduate, Adrean Howard, who received his certificate in Welding and Fabrication, expressed, “The training was very enjoyable. Having graduated, I feel relieved, because I worked so hard to get here. Now, my hard work has paid off. I already

signed up for some companies, so I’ve already started the process of using this qualification.”

Meanwhile, Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton commended the graduates for overcoming the many challenges that may have stood in their way, as well as taking that valuable step in upskilling themselves.

“Geography must not define you. Let no one tell you they are better than you because of their geographical location,” he said.

He added that this knowledge will serve as sustenance, especially in the midst of the rapid ongoing development in Guyana. He urged graduates to use

their qualifications to contribute to the transformation underway.

“Qualifications are not to be boasted about. We get these qualifications so we can serve. You also have to put some innovation into your art.”

This skills training initiative in the community was realised through the collaborative efforts of the Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Charles Ramson Jr; Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister, Oneidge Walrond; Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame Mc Coy; and Minister Hamilton.

900 Wauna residents to soon benefit from new well

Anew well in Wauna in the Mabaruma sub-region of Region One (Barima-Waini) is scheduled for completion in approximately one month, bringing significant relief to approximately 200 households or close to 900 residents there.

The development marks a significant step towards providing clean, safe, and reliable water to the community in keeping with the commitment of President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali.

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal on Friday last visited the site and met with the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) Hinterland Services Well Driller, Joseph Mohanlall, and his team.

Croal explained that at present, Wauna depends on

the Wanaina Water Supply System, which distributes water on a scheduled basis. He emphasised the crucial role of the well for the community, particularly during the dry season.

“[During] the dry season, the hinterland suffers the most because if you’re not getting a source from the river or the creeks, then what happens is that those who are inland; a source of water becomes problematic because they depend mainly on rainwater,” the Minister explained.

He further stated that the Government has earmarked $1.4 billion in 2023 for the Hinterland Water Programme, which includes plans to drill 40 wells across Regions One, Seven, Eight, and Nine.

Meanwhile, Mohanlall explained the work process in Wauna, where GWI is drilling an eight-inch rock well, sourcing water from fractures within the rocks.

The drilling began in August 2023, and despite challenges posed by the rock formation and adverse weather conditions, the team remains on schedule. Currently, the well has reached a depth of 32 metres, with the goal of reaching at least 50 metres.

Upon completion, two community service officers will manage the system alongside GWI. In addition, the construction of the new GWI sub-office in Mabaruma will enhance water services in the sub-region, improving efficiency and timeliness in serving communities.

Minister Hamilton addressing the gathering

Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton and some of the graduates

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal in discussion with Hinterland Services Well Driller, Joseph Mohanlall

The well being drilled

Some of the equipment at the worksite

Mahdia CoI

Absence of Commissioner forces postponement

– hearings to resume on Friday with full quorum

While the Mahdia fire Commission of Inquiry (CoI) hearings were expected to continue on Monday, the hearing had to be postponed due to a lack of quorum. In fact, one of the Commissioners had to travel out of the country due to an unforeseen emergency.

This publication understands that due to the unnamed Commissioner having to emergency travel,

a quorum - the minimum number of persons necessary for a body to convenecould not be reached to allow the CoI hearing to proceed.

The CoI is made up of three CommissionersRetired Major General Joe Singh as Chairman and Attorney-at-Law Kim KyteThomas, and Chairman of the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Derrick John, who were all appointed by

Berbice man nabbed with over 8kg ganja at roadblock

President Ali on August 10 as Commissioners.

Contacted on Monday, however, the CoI’s Secretary, Attorney-at-Law Javeed Shadick, explained that the Commissioner should be back in the country soon and that the CoI is expected to go ahead with its next hearing on Friday.

The Commission of Inquiry will dive into and report on the events and circumstances leading up to and causes of the Mahdia fire; inquire into and report upon the actions taken to provide swift care, medical attention, and other forms of support and assistance to the families of those injured and deceased; and make such recommendations and observations as the Commission may deem fit, including such measures to prevent the recurrence of such tragedy.

There are three phases of the inquiry: evidence gathering, oral hearings, and report writing. It will last for two months unless extended by the President.

Last week Friday the dorm father, Steve Jerome took the stand as public

hearings commenced before the Commissioners. Jerome’s five-year-old son, Adonijah Jerome, was among the 20 victims killed in the Mahdia fire.

On May 21, Guyana and the rest of the world were plunged into mourning as news broke of the tragic incident which destroyed the building and took 20 lives. Those who died were Eulander Carter, Martha D’Andrade, Mary D’Andrade and Omefia Edwin of Chenapau; Belnisa Evans, Loreen Evans, Rita Bibi Jeffrey and Sabrina John of Karisparu; Natalie Bellarmine, Shorlin Bellarmine, Sherena

Daniels, Arianna Edwards, Delicia Edwards, Adonijah Jerome, Andrea Roberts, Lisa Roberts, Nickoleen Robinson, Cleoma Simon, Tracil Thomas and Lorita Williams of Micobie.

The Mahdia school’s dormitory housed students from the communities of Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni).

The fire was allegedly set in the bathroom area of the dormitory. According to the surviving female students, they were asleep and were awakened by screams.

Upon checking, they saw fire and smoke in the bathroom area, which quickly spread in the building, causing several students to re-

ABerbice resident was on Monday busted with over eight kilograms of ganja during a police roadblock at Weldaad Public Road, West Coast Berbice (WCB).

The man was at the time a passenger in a motor car bearing registration number PYY 1658.

Police stated that the car was being driven by a 24-year-old man of Ankerville, Corentyne, Berbice with four occupants in the vehicle.

During the exercise, a rank instructed the passengers to exit the car with their belongings, which they did.

One of the passengers, a resident of Number 67 Village, Corriverton, Berbice identified a haversack and a travelling bag that belonged to him.

Inside the travelling bag, Police found three bulky transparent parcels containing a quantity of cannabis thus prompting the ranks to search the haversack during which one parcel with ganja was unearthed.

The man was told of the offence committed and escorted into the Weldaad Police Station where the ganja was weighed. It amounted to 8675 grams. He remains in custody pending charges.

Foulis man slapped with attempted murder of 10-yearOld, wounding 12-year-Old

Forty-two-year-old

Zabar Khan, a spray painter of First Street Foulis, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was on Monday charged with the attempted murder of a 10-year-old and the felonious wounding of a 12-year-old.

The man was arrested on September 14, following a social media post of two children being beaten and burnt.

Charges were instituted by ranks of Enmore Police Station for the offence of Attempt to Commit Murder, Contrary to Section 103 (c) of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01.

The accused appeared at Vigilance Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Fabayo Azore, where both charges

Charged: Zabar Khan

were read to him. He pleaded not guilty to both charges and was remanded to prison. He will return to court on October 31.

ceive burns to their bodies and suffer from smoke inhalation, whilst several managed to escape.

Several of the injured students were air-dashed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) for treatment. On May 27, a 13-year-old girl was flown to the Northwell Health Burn Care Centre in New York to seek advanced medical care. She has since returned to Guyana for further treatment.

Information from the Guyana Fire Service indicated that 14 youths died at the scene of the fire, while six died at Mahdia District Hospital.

Billions left behind on path to universal health coverage – WHO, World Bank report

The World Health Organisation (WHO) and the World Bank have jointly published the 2023 Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Global Monitoring Report, revealing an alarming stagnation in the progress towards universal health coverage.

This means providing people everywhere with quality, affordable, and accessible healthcare.

Released amid the HighLevel Meeting on UHC at the 78th United Nations General Assembly, this report exposes a stark reality based on the latest available evidence – that more than half of the world’s population is still not covered by essential health services.

Furthermore, two billion people face severe financial hardship when paying outof-pocket for the services and products they need.

WHO Director General, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus reflected, “The COVID-19 pandemic was a reminder that healthy societies and economies depend on healthy people. The fact that so many people cannot benefit from affordable, quality, essential health services not only put their own health at risk, it also puts the stability of communities, societies, and economies at risk. We urgently need stronger political will, more aggressive investments in health, and a decisive shift to transform health systems based on primary health

care.”

The 2023 report found that, over the past two decades, less than a third of countries have improved health service coverage and reduced catastrophic out-ofpocket health spending.

Vice President for Human Development at the World Bank, Mamta Murthi said this report paints a dire picture but also offers evidence on ways to prioritise health in Government budgets and strengthen health systems for greater equity.

“We know that achieving universal health coverage

is a critical step in helping people escape and stay out of poverty, yet there continues to be increased financial hardship, especially for the poorest and most vulnerable people.”

While health service coverage improved since the beginning of the century, progress has slowed since 2015, when the Sustainable Development Goals were adopted. Notably, there was no improvement from 2019 to 2021. While services for infectious diseases have seen significant gains since 2000,

there has been little to no improvement in service coverage for noncommunicable diseases and reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health services in recent years.

In 2021, about 4.5 billion people, more than half of the global population, were not fully covered by essential health services. This estimate does not yet reflect the potential long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Achieving universal health coverage by 2030 is crucial for fulfilling the promise of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and realising the fundamental human right to health.

To reach the goal of universal health coverage, the WHO said substantial public sector investment and accelerated action by governments and development partners are essential. Key actions include a radical reorientation of health systems towards a primary healthcare approach, advancing equity in healthcare access and financial protection, and investing in robust health information systems.

These shifts are essential to counter the impact of COVID-19 on health systems and the health workforce globally, as well as the new challenges posed by macroeconomic, climate, demographic, and political trends that threaten hardwon health gains worldwide.

Dorm father Steve Jerome (left) testified before the Commission and Counsel Keoma Griffith on Friday last

The ganja that was found during the exercise

St Cuthbert’s Mission elects CPG members

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) was on site to witness the formation of the St Cuthbert’s/Pakuri Community Policing Group (CPG) on Sunday.

The launch of the Community Policing Group marks a memorable occasion, as it is the first of its kind in the rapidly growing and developing community.

Pierre Andrews was elected Chairman with Orland Shuman as ViceChairman; Ameera Husain as Secretary; Rondi Phillips as Treasurer; Alana D’olliviera as Assistant Secretary/Treasurer and Alvoro Simon as the Public Relations Officer (PRO).

Communities in Region

Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) and Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) will feel safer and protected as the Government’s “Safe Country” initiative is scheduled to roll out in the regions by year-end.

As part of the programme, the Home Affairs Ministry through the Guyana Police Force (GPF) is integrating Information and Communications Technology (ICT) into its crime-fighting capabilities to enhance sur-

The committee members include Gary Shuman, Abid Husain, Neil Henry, Ian Shuman, Poonsammy Tomby, and Mahase

veillance nationwide.

The initiative will see the entire country being connected to closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras. CCTVs are designed to increase formal surveillance by making it easier for security agencies to monitor potential criminal activities and deter crime by increasing the risk of detection.

To complement this new development, a contract to develop an electronic identification (e-ID) system was signed earlier in 2023, and is on schedule to produce the

Ramnarase.

Station Sergeant at the St Cuthbert’s Police Outpost, who was present at the election, encouraged

first Guyanese Citizenship Identity Card by 2024.

According to the Ministry of Finance’s Mid-Year 2023 report, command centres are being constructed in Regions Two, Three, Five, Six, and 10 which will be operated by civilians and Police officers in the respective regions.

A total of $468.3 million was expended in the first half-year to advance construction to these centres as well as the Criminal Investigation Department, Special Constabulary, and Tactical Service Unit

DeSinco Ltd donates BOP Insecticide Spray in fight against dengue

the new executives and members to maintain professionalism and indicated his willingness to work closely with the group.

The new group will play an active role in boosting security in the village as it prepares of its Heritage Celebrations on September

30.

The Guyana Police Force has been resuscitating several CPGs across Guyana. These groups were restructured with a focus on rebuilding, boosting their membership, and regaining trust within communities to prevent crime.

“The promoting of safe communities and neighbourhoods can only come through enabling and rebuilding of community trust and confidence through a system of volunteerism, using law-abiding citizens to bolster and aid the lawful, professional and human rights embracing efforts of Guyana Police Force,” Subject Minister Robeson Benn had stated.

Headquarters.

Other developments for the GPF include advanced works on the rehabilitation and construction of living quarters at Beterverwagting, Cove and John, and Lethem; Police stations at Baramita, Tuschen, Den Amstel, Vreed-enHoop, Mocha, Sparendaam, Rose Hall, Imbaimadai, Eteringbang, Annai, Lethem, and Karasabai, as well as the

ICT Training Complexes in Regions One, Four, Five and Nine.

In the first half-year, the Police Force also received 30 double cab pick-ups which will aid its capabilities to respond efficiently to criminal activities.

Meanwhile, to increase active community participation in the prevention of crime, some $38.1 million of the budgeted $111 million

was exhausted in the halfyear towards the formation of 37 new Community Policing Groups (CPGs). An additional 53 groups will also be formed by year-end.

To enhance its human resource pool, $70.4 million was spent to train 714 ranks who participated in local and regional courses, of which 22 ranks participated in 16 crime prevention-related courses.

Officials of DeSinco Limited and the Rotary Club of Georgetown

DeSinco Limited has donated a quantity of BOP insecticide spray to the Rotary Club of Georgetown with the aim of bolstering the community response to dengue fever and other preventable diseases caused by flying and crawling insects.

Dengue fever continues to pose a major health threat in various regions of Guyana, including Regions 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, and 10. In response to this challenge, DeSinco Limited has stepped up with their donation, as BOP Insecticide Spray is recognised for its unparalleled efficacy in eliminating indoor flying and crawling insects.

The Rotary Club of

Georgetown will spearhead the distribution efforts, ensuring that these critical supplies reach those in need. The beneficiaries will include health centres, educational institutions, daycare facilities, clinics, and other community organisations dedicated to maintaining public health.

A representative of DeSinco Limited, Shannon Savory emphasised the company’s commitment to community well-being. “DeSinco Limited and BOP are committed to giving back to the community. We stand united with governmental and non-governmental organisations in protecting Guyanese communities from infectious and vector-borne diseases.”

The official handing over ceremony was attended by key members of the Rotary Club of Georgetown, including its President Devindra Kissoon, Secretary Natasha M Vieira, and Service Projects Director Wilmot Garnett.

This collaborative effort underscores their unwavering dedication to the health and well-being of the Guyanese populace.

The Rotary Club of Georgetown extended its profound gratitude to DeSinco Limited for its generous donation, which will undoubtedly make a significant impact in the ongoing battle against dengue fever and other preventable diseases.

Members of the newly-formed St Cuthbert’s/Pakuri Community Policing Group (CPG)

“Safe Country” initiative to roll out in Regs 3 & 6 by year end

Regional Dominican President to meet UN chief over aid through closed Haiti border

The President of the Dominican Republic said he would meet United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Wednesday to discuss a call from a UN expert to allow humanitarian supplies to pass through his country’s shuttered border with Haiti.

President Luis Abinader said he had not received a formal request to do so and would need more details, after UN expert William O’Neill said stopping essential goods such as food and medicine crossing the border would be “dire” for Haiti.

Abinader, who is seeking re-election in May, announced a total border shutdown on Thursday over the construction of a canal from a shared river he argues violates a 1929 treaty.

The Dominican Republic says the canal is being built by non-Government agents, but has called on Haiti’s Government – which is facing escalating gang warfare and a worsening humanitarian crisis – to halt construction.

Haiti has condemned the border shutdown and called on the Dominican Republic to safeguard Haitians in its country. The country has deported tens of thousands fleeing the crisis back to Haiti, despite repeated UN criticisms.

Santo Domingo has said it will not resume talks until construction on the canal is stopped, and that it is planning to build two dams which could “significantly af-

T&T cop killed in ambush outside mini-mart, gun stolen

Special Reserve Police officer Charles Kublalsingh, who was on extended leave, was shot once in the chest with a 12-gauge shotgun less than three minutes after leaving his home on Saturday night. His attacker then stole his gun and car.

The 56-year-old, Police said, had requested leave from duty after he became a witness in a murder case where one of his then superiors was charged. That matter is still ongoing.

Police reported that around 20:03h pm on Saturday, they received a report while on patrol of a shooting at Woodford Street, Curepe. When they arrived, they found men bundling Kublalsingh into a car to take him to hospital.

The officers escorted the car to hospital, where Kublalsingh was declared dead around 20:35h.

tol and his car. The car was later found abandoned in Maracas, St Joseph.

fect” Haiti if the treaty is not active.

O’Neill had earlier on Monday called for the countries to seek international arbitration if necessary. “Lives are at stake,” he said in a statement.

“Directors of medical clinics in Haiti have told me that they will not be able to care for their patients if access to the Dominican Republic is cut off,” he added.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

More than 50 Colombian State, private entities hit by cyberattack – Petro

More than 50 Colombian state entities and private companies were hit by a cyberattack last week, Colombian President Gustavo Petro told Journalists in New York.

Internet service provider

IFX Networks last week reported it was the victim of a ransomware attack, which saw dozens of Colombian organisations affected.

Without naming the company, Petro said the wider impact of the attack showed

IFX Networks did not have the right “cybersecurity measures” in place and put the company in breach of its contracts.

Earlier on Monday, Colombia’s Minister for Information, Technology and Communications Mauricio Lizcano said on messaging platform X that he had ordered administrative actions to be launched against IFX Networks.

“We are coordinating ... a civil lawsuit and possibly

Kublalsingh, who lived at Jackson Street, Curepe, was granted a firearm user’s licence due to threats he reported to his colleagues after he became a witness in the case.

Police said Kublalsingh was returning to his silver Toyota Fielder wagon parked along Woodford Street after purchasing an item at a nearby mini-mart. While walking back to the car, however, a gunman approached him and shot him in the chest. He then took Kublalsingh’s Glock45 pis-

When Guardian Media visited Kublalsingh’s relatives, they said they were still grappling with the realisation that he was dead. They said he left home, promising his dog he was returning soon. The dog has since been sleeping on his pillow, awaiting his master’s return.

“He was a good man,” was all one relative could muster up the strength to say.

Relatives said while Kublalsingh was on extended personal leave, he was making preparations to return to the T&T Police Service as soon as possible. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Jamaican Foreign Minister calls for embracing science, tech in global development

a criminal case (against the company),” Lizcano said.

IFX Networks understands the complexity of the incident and the problems it has caused for affected clients, the company said in a statement on its website.

“Thanks to the swift detection and action of our team, we were able to limit the potential reach of the attack and considerably contain the number of affected systems,” the statement said.

(Reuters)

At least 24 killed in Peru after bus plummets down slope

At least 24 people have been killed after a bus in Peru veered off a mountainous road and plunged down a slope.

The crash is the latest deadly incident on Peru’s roadways, which have seen an increase in traffic-related fatalities.

The bus had been travelling north from Ayacucho in the south-central part of the country to Huancayo, the capital of the Junin region, when it crashed around 1:30h local time (06:30 GMT) on Monday.

Local media reported that the bus flipped several times as it tumbled down the rugged mountain terrain in the area of Huancavelica.

Manuel Zevallos Pacheco, the Mayor of the Anco dis-

The bus plunged some 200m from a mountain road into a ravine. Authorities have expressed concern about adequate driver safety training in the wake of recent bus crashes

trict, told the news outlet RPP that the bus fell at least 150 metres (492 feet).

The regional government of Ayacucho reported that it had attended to 11 injured passengers at the Huanta Support Hospital. The newspaper La Republica estimat-

ed that as many as 36 persons could be wounded.

Peru’s transportation authority, SUTRAN, issued a statement on Monday offering condolences for the dead and pledging to probe what happened. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Minister, Senator Kamina Johnson Smith is urging the developing world to act now to advance strategic plans to fully incorporate science and technology into its development.

The Minister was speaking at the G77 and China Summit held in Cuba from September 15-16, where she represented Prime Minister Andrew Holness.

In her statement to the Summit, Johnson Smith referenced the 2023 United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) Report on Technology and Innovation, which she stated, reminds that there are windows of opportunity for the Global South.

According to the Foreign

Minister, “the report correctly asserts that we can build resilience, grow stronger and more diversified economies, and move to better development trajectories with the wave of technological change unleashed by renewable and other green technologies.”

Johnson Smith also reiterated the call for the inter-

national community to foster an open, fair, inclusive and non-discriminatory environment for scientific and technological development.

According to the Minister, the issue of access to technology and bridging the digital divide, including its gender dimensions, must also be addressed. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Mexican President defends Russia participation in military parade

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Monday defended the presence of a Russian military unit in a weekend parade marking Mexico’s independence day, following sharp criticism his country had given a platform to forces that invaded Ukraine.

Ukraine’s Ambassador to Mexico, Opposition politicians and critical media blasted the decision to allow a Russian unit to participate on Saturday, but Lopez Obrador said Mexico had allowed any country to join in.

“We have relations with

all countries in the world and we invite everyone,” Lopez Obrador said at a regular Government press conference after noting that the presence of the Russian unit had sparked a “scandal.”

Lopez Obrador, a leftist, has sought to keep Mexico neutral in the war between Russia and Ukraine, at one point proposing peace talks.

Nonetheless, his government has backed some major United Nations resolutions criticising Russia’s role in the conflict.

Ukraine’s ambassador to Mexico, Oksana Dramaretska, said on X that

the parade had been “sullied” by the participation of a Russian unit which she said was “stained with blood.”

Units from Brazil, Chile, China, Venezuela, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Cuba and Nicaragua were among others also taking part.

The participation of Nicaragua also came under criticism, with the central American country’s Government under fire for cracking down on opposition to President Daniel Ortega. Ortega argues his opponents having been trying to engineer a coup. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Haitians work on the construction site of a water channel from the Massacre river, a river shared by Haiti and the Dominican Republic, after Dominican President Luis Abinader announced a total border shutdown amid a conflict over the construction of the channel, in Ouanaminthe, Haiti

Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Minister, Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, (right) is urging the developing world to act now to advance strategic plans to fully incorporate science and technology into its development. The Minister was speaking at the G77 and China Summit held in Cuba from September 15-16, where she represented Prime Minister Andrew Holness

Around the World OIL NEWS

Ukraine sues EU neighbours over food imports ban

Oil prices rise as tight supply outlook offsets demand woes

Oil prices rose on Monday after flirting with US$95 a barrel earlier in the session, as expectations of a supply deficit stemming from extended output cuts by Saudi Arabia and Russia as well as weak shale production outweighed concerns about demand.

Global oil benchmark Brent crude futures settled 50 cents higher at US$94.43 a barrel after rising as high as US$94.45. US West Texas Intermediate crude futures rose 71 cents to US$91.48.

Saudi Arabia and Russia this month extended a combined 1.3 million barrels per day (bpd) of supply cuts to the end of the year.

Meanwhile, US oil output from top shale-producing regions is also expected to fall for a third month in a row in October to its lowest level since May 2023, the US Energy Information Administration said in a monthly report.

Saudi Arabia's Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman on Monday defended OPEC+ cuts to oil market supply, saying international energy markets need light-handed regulation to limit volatility, while also warning of uncertainty about Chinese demand, European growth and central bank action to tackle inflation.

Brent and WTI have climbed for three consecutive weeks to touch their highest since November and are on track for their biggest quarterly increases since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in the first quarter of 2022.

The Brent benchmark traded in overbought territory for a seventh straight session, while WTI traded in overbought territory for a fifth straight session.

The market was also seeing some profit-taking, said Dennis Kissler, senior vice president of trading at BOK Financial.

Citi on Monday became the latest bank to predict that Brent prices could exceed US$100 a barrel this year. Chevron Chief Executive Mike Wirth also said in a Bloomberg News interview he thinks oil will cross US$100 per barrel.

Saudi Arabia and Russia's output cuts could lead to a 2 million bpd deficit in the fourth quarter, and a subsequent drawdown in inventories could leave the market exposed to further price spikes in 2024, ANZ analysts said.

China is a key risk because of its sluggish post-pandemic economic recovery, though its oil imports have remained robust.

A series of stimulus measures and a summer travel boom helped industrial output and consumer spending to rebound last month and Chinese refineries ramped up output, driven by strong export margins.

Eyes will also be on central banks this week, including an interest rate decision from the US Federal Reserve.

The Bank of England is likely to hike interest rates once again this week, possibly the last hurrah for one of the most aggressive tightening cycles of the past 100 years as a cooling economy begins to worry policymakers. (Reuters)

US-bound plane leaves Doha with 5 Americans freed by Iran

AUS-bound plane car-

rying five Americans freed by Iran left Doha on Monday as part of a prisoner swap for five Iranians held in the United States and the transfer of US$6 billion in Iranian funds, marking a rare deal between the long-time antagonists.

"Today, five innocent Americans who were imprisoned in Iran are finally coming home," US President Joe Biden said in a statement shortly before the US detainees descended the stairs of a Qatari jet in Doha to be embraced by US diplomats.

The White House confirmed a plane carrying the five, along with two US family members who left Tehran with them earlier, was en route to the United States, where they were to be offered medical treatment by the US military as they adjust to freedom.

Separately, Iran's State-

Ukraine has filed lawsuits to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) against Slovakia, Poland and Hungary over their bans on food imports from Kyiv.

It said such restrictions were a violation of international obligations by Ukraine's EU neighbours.

They say the bans are needed to protect their farmers from cheap imports.

Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine last year all but closed the main Black Sea shipping lanes, with large grain quantities ending up in central Europe.

"It is crucially important for us to prove that individual member states cannot ban imports of Ukrainian

goods," Ukrainian Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko said in a statement on Monday.

"That is why we are filing lawsuits against them [Slovakia, Poland and Hungary] to the WTO."

She added that Ukrainian exporters had "already suffered and are continuing to suffer significant losses" because of the unilateral bans.

Poland said it would maintain its ban regardless.

"We maintain our position, we think it is correct, it results from an economic analysis and powers derived from EU and international law," said Government spokesman Piotr Mueller.

"A complaint before the WTO doesn't impress us."

Poland said it would maintain its ban regardless

Last Friday, the European Commission - the EU's executive body - decided not to extend a ban agreed earlier this year on Ukraine's grain imports into Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania and Slovakia.

The Commission has repeatedly stated that it is not

up to individual EU members to make trade policy for the 27-strong bloc. But the governments in Budapest, Warsaw and Bratislava defied the Commission's move, announcing their national restrictions. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Italy passes tougher measures to deter migrant arrivals

The Italian Government, struggling with a surge in arriving migrants, on Monday passed measures to lengthen the time they can be detained and ensure more people who have no legal right to stay are repatriated, Government officials said.

The move came after almost 10,000 migrants reached the southern Italian island of Lampedusa last week, dealing a blow to the cred -

ibility of right-wing Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who won office last year vowing to curb illegal immigration.

Meloni said at the start of a Cabinet meeting on the situation that migrants awaiting repatriation should be detained for an initial six months, extendable to up to 18, up from three months now.

"That will be all the time needed not only to make the necessary assessments, but also to pro -

Australia swelters in spring heat wave, temperatures set to break records

owned Press TV said the five Iranians held by the United States and charged with committing crimes had been freed, an apparent reference to their being granted clemency, and that two of them had landed in Tehran.

The other three are not expected to return to Iran.

"This was purely a humanitarian action," Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi said after arriving in New York for the annual UN General Assembly. "It can certainly be a step based upon which in the future other humanitarian actions can be taken."

It was unclear whether the exchange might bring progress on the many issues that divide the two nations, including Iran's nuclear programme, its support for regional Shi'ite militias, the presence of US troops in the Gulf and US sanctions on Iran. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Aspring heat wave across large parts of Australia's southeast, including Sydney, will intensify on Monday, the weather bureau said, with temperatures expected to peak up to 16 degrees Celsius (60 Fahrenheit) above the September average.

Australia is baking through a rising heat wave which has been building in the country's outback interior over the weekend and is likely last until Wednesday across the states of South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales.

The Bureau of Meteorology said it expected several early spring records were likely to be broken over the next few days, calling the heat "very uncommon for September".

"A reprieve from the heat is not expected until Wednesday onwards, as a stronger cold front crosses the southeastern states," the weather bureau said in a Facebook post on Sunday.

The heat took its toll on

runners in the Sydney marathon on Sunday with 26 people taken to the hospital and about 40 treated for heat exhaustion by emergency services.

Temperatures in Sydney's west are expected to hit 36 degrees Celsius (96.8 F) on Monday before dropping to about 22 degrees Celsius (71 F) on Thursday, the weather bureau forecasts showed.

The heat wave has also elevated the risks of fires with several regions given 'high' fire danger ratings, and authorities urging residents to prepare for bushfires. About 50 grass or bushfires are burning across New South Wales but all have been brought under control.

Australia is bracing for a hotter southern hemisphere spring and summer this year after the possibility of an El Nino strengthened and the weather forecaster said the weather event could likely develop between September and November. (Excerpt from BBC News)

ceed with the repatriation of those who do not qualify for international protection," Meloni said in her introductory speech.

Government sources said the Cabinet approved that measure shortly afterwards, as well as the creation of more detention centres in remote areas. Meloni said Italy needed to increase the capacity of such facilities as they had been weakened by "years of immigrationist policies".

Under Italian law, mi -

grants facing repatriation can be held if they cannot be immediately expelled. Officials say a majority of migrants head to Italy for economic reasons and are therefore not eligible for asylum.

Past efforts to hold migrants have largely failed, with those detained repeatedly breaking out of centres and often heading straight to wealthier northern European countries. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Canada says Indian Govt agents could be linked to Sikh leader's murder

Canada said on Monday it had credible information linking Indian Government agents to the murder of a Sikh leader in British Columbia in June and said it had expelled a senior Indian intelligence official.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said any involvement of a foreign Government in the killing of a Canadian citizen was "an unacceptable violation of our sovereignty".

Hardeep Singh Nijjar, was shot dead outside a Sikh temple in Surrey, British Columbia, on June 18.

Nijjar supported a Sikh homeland in the form of an independent Khalistani state and been branded by India as a "terrorist," the Canadian Broadcasting Corp said.

"Canadian security agencies have been actively pursuing credible allegations of a potential link between agents of the Government of India and the killing of a

Canadian citizen, Hardeep Singh Nijjar," Trudeau said in an emergency statement to the House of Commons parliamentary chamber.

"Canada has declared its deep concerns to the top intelligence and security officials of the Indian Government.

Last week at the G20 I brought them personally and directly to Prime Minister Modi in no uncertain terms."

New Delhi said last week that Modi had conveyed strong concerns about protests in Canada against India to Trudeau.

Foreign Minister Melanie Joly told reporters that Ottawa had expelled the Indian head of intelligence in Canada but gave no further details.

Canada has the highest population of Sikhs outside their home state of Punjab in India, and the country has been the site of many protests that have irked India.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

DAILY HOROSCOPES

Emotional matters will cost you if you lack realism. Sidestep joint ventures and proceed alone to maintain control. Being able to do things your way will give you limitless energy and enthusiasm.

(March 21-April 19)

You’ll gravitate toward serious people pursuing a mission similar to yours. Don’t get consumed in someone else’s dream; work alongside people who empower you to do your own thing.

(April 20-May 20)

PEANUTS

(May 21-June 20)

Go about your business, and don’t stop until you are satisfied with the results. A personal challenge will help you hone your skills and push you to reach your potential. Personal growth requires time.

Participate in something and see what happens. Someone you meet will spark your imagination and encourage you to believe in yourself. A partnership looks promising but will require work.

(June 21-July 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(July 23-Aug. 22)

Contain your eagerness to jump in and take charge. You’ll bite off more than you can chew if you are too ready to show off. Test the waters before you plunge into something time-consuming.

Make your move. Stop procrastinating or waiting for the perfect moment. Start heading in a direction that suits your needs and lifestyle. Change can be frightening, but regret will haunt you.

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Poor judgment will cost you. Don’t get involved with someone for the wrong reason. Focus on self-improvement, sustainability and security. You can help others, but not at the expense of your own progress.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

Keep the momentum flowing. Conversations will lead to concrete results and positive change. Look for a unique way to present your case, and the interest in your plan will mount.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Pay attention to your health. Overindulgence will cause unexpected problems. Be honest with yourself and others, and honor any promises you make. Protect your secrets.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

You are in a better position than you realize. Stay focused on what you are trying to achieve. Refuse to let personal matters disrupt your concentration. Finish what you start.

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Poor behavior will make you vulnerable. Protect yourself from those luring you into something you shouldn’t pursue. Build your strength and improve your image. Make romance a priority.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Put the brakes on any far-fetched suggestion. Stick to what’s realistic. Surround yourself with people who aren’t afraid to tell you the truth. Make decisions based on facts.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

Deos dominate Canada Trophy Stall tournament

… Hackett, Khan winners in their respective flights

The Lusignan Golf Club On Saturday, September 16, 2023, hosted the Canada Trophy Stall Golf Tournament. In the end, Arnal Deo emerged victorious over his competitors. Brian Hackett and Kassim Khan were also winners in their respective flights. The Deo family in particular were a regular feature as Arnal Deo, Maurice Deo and Bholawram Deo were among the winners as well.

The results for the tournament are as follow:

Flight 0-12

1. Kassim Khan – Gross 73, HC 5, Net 68

2. Patrick Prashad –Gross 81, HC 12, Net 69

3. Mike Mangal – Gross 78, HC 6, Net 72

Flight 13-20

1. Brian Hackett – Gross 88, HC 18, Net 70

2. Joseph John – Gross 86, HC 15, Net 71

3. Mahesh Shivraj –Gross 87, HC 14, Net 73

Flight 21-36

1. Arnal Deo – Gross 91, HC 28, Net 63

2. Maurice Deo – Gross 94, HC 26, Net 78

3. Bholawram Deo –Gross 90, HC 21, Net 69

Overall Best Net – Arnal Deo 63

Best Gross – Kassim Khan 73

Nearest to pin – Joseph John Longest Drive –Ravindra Harry

Speaking at the end of the tournament was LGC Vice President Brian Hackett, who said, "Trophy Stall has

been a very good supporter of the Lusignan Golf Club and has been hosting tournaments annually for the last 15 years without exception. Their tournaments are usually well-attended. We look forward to this tournament every year as we work with Trophy Stall to improve golf and make it more prominent in Guyana. The tournament was exception-

ally attended by more than 23 golfers."

Hackett noted that Victor Sunich of Trophy Stall Canada has indicated that he was very pleased to be part of the golf club and was looking forward to sponsoring a second tournament towards the end of this year. Hackett also shared that the LGC welcomed Sunich and appreciated his gesture

and ongoing commitment to ensuring golf remains popular in Guyana.

Also sharing remarks was Sunich, the proprietor of Trophy Stall Canada, who said, "At Trophy Stall, we are involved in sports, and this is one way that we can contribute to the community and show appreciation to our customers. Trophy Stall has been doing this for the past 15 years. It has become a tradition at the Lusignan Golf Club to host two tournaments every year. So, we are more than happy to contribute to sports in Guyana."

Trophy Stall is a longtime supporter of golf and all sporting activities in Guyana. The sponsor is committed to continuing to be a part of the growth of golf in Guyana. Trophy Stall is the premier seller of a wide range of trophies and sporting memorabilia in Guyana.

India recall Ashwin for Australia ODIs; Rahul to captain in 1st 2 games

India have included both R Ashwin and Washington Sundar in their 15-member squad for the three-match One-Day International (ODI) series against Australia.

With the World Cup looming and the team intent on testing more of their bench, regulars such as Captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, and Kuldeep Yadav have been rested for the first two ODIs. In Rohit's absence, KL Rahul will lead the side.

For the third ODI, the selectors have picked the same squad that they will play with at the World Cup, plus Ashwin and Washington.

Ashwin last played an ODI more than 18 months ago, and his selection is a chance for the team management to have him ready, along with Washington, should they need a replacement for Axar Patel, who has a left quadriceps strain that ruled him out of the Asia Cup final.

Ashwin has been training at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) over the past week along with spin consultant Sairaj Bahutule, even as the national team was away at the Asia Cup in Sri Lanka.

"We're hoping Axar will be fit," chief selector Ajit Agarkar said. "Washy was

already part of the squad for the final. Ashwin brings experience, so it gives us options in case there is a need at some stage for us to look at those guys."

Rohit elaborated on the Ashwin selection a bit more when asked if the offspinner's lack of match-time in the format could be a possible hindrance.

"With guys like Ashwin, game-time and time on the ground is not so much of a concern," he said. "Which is why we thought if he is an option for us, we need to get him in. With the kind of experience he has, for guys like him, it's all in the head more than the body. I thought getting him in could give us a chance to understand where he is at, how his body is and stuff like that.

"It's not like he has not

been playing cricket for the last year or so. Yes, he hasn't played in this [ODI] format, but he played Test cricket recently in the West Indies, and if I'm not wrong, in the TNPL [Tamil Nadu Premier League] as well. Of course, there's no comparison, but he has had some cricket there. The games against Australia will give us a chance to look at where he's at."

Explaining the team management's rationale behind naming two different squads for a short ODI series, Agarkar stressed the importance of giving the senior players a "mental break" given the short turnaround between their victorious Asia Cup campaign and the first ODI.

"Luckily, we got a fair amount of cricket at the

Asia Cup," Agarkar said. "If not, we would've looked at it some other way. More than physical, sometimes guys need a mental break, which isn't a bad thing leading into a tournament like the World Cup.

"For the third game, everyone will be available. We will play our World Cup squad. This [squad for the first two ODIs] gives us a chance to give guys sitting outside a chance. It's still a strong squad. Like I said, if we hadn't got a lot of cricket at the Asia Cup, who knows, we may have thought differently."

With Rohit resting, India have the option of picking either Ishan Kishan or Ruturaj Gaikwad as an opener. Gaikwad has been training

at the NCA along with the rest of India's Asian Games contingent that will leave for China on September 27. Gaikwad, who is set to captain that team, will now link up with the rest of the touring group immediately after the second ODI in Indore on September 24.

The Australia series, which begins on September 22, is India's last ODI assignment before the World Cup and it presents a chance for highly-rated middle-order batter Tilak Varma to push his case at the highest level. He has been picked for the first two games.

India's squad for Australia series

For first two ODIs: KL Rahul (Captain);

Ravindra Jadeja (Vice Captain); Shubman Gill; Ruturaj Gaikwad; Shreyas Iyer; Ishan Kishan; Suryakumar Yadav; Shardul Thakur; Jasprit Bumrah; Mohammed Siraj; Mohammed Shami; Tilak Varma; Prasidh Krishna; R Ashwin and Washington Sundar.

For third ODI: Rohit Sharma (Captain); Hardik Pandya (Vice Captain); Shubman Gill; Shreyas Iyer; KL Rahul; Ishan Kishan; Suryakumar Yadav; Ravindra Jadeja; Shardul Thakur; Jasprit Bumrah; Mohammed Siraj; Mohammed Shami; Virat Kohli; Kuldeep Yadav; Axar Patel (subject to fitness); R Ashwin and Washington Sundar. (ESPNcricinfo)

The winners’ row

The victorious Arnal Deo

R Ashwin last played an ODI in January 2022

India will take on Australia in an ODI series beginning Friday

Guyana highlighted as “team to watch” in Road to Women’s Gold Cup

Guyana’s senior women’s national football team, the Lady Jaguars, have been highlighted as a “team to watch” in the upcoming CONCACAF Women’s Gold Cup qualifiers.

Ahead of the competition, which begins on Wednesday, September 20, the Lady Jags were singled out alongside El Salvador by the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) as teams who can potentially excel in League B of the tournament.

CONCACAF wrote, “The 2023 Road to W Gold Cup kicks off and 12 nations in League B have their sights set on securing a play-offs ticket that will give them the opportunity to advance to next year’s inaugural CONCACAF W Gold Cup.

The League B format features a dozen countries divided into three groups of four. Each team will face each other twice, home and away, with the top team in each group advancing to the prelims against the second-place finishers from League A. Additionally, the group winners will be promoted for the next edition of the tournament.

Group A Guyana, Antigua and Barbuda, Suriname, and Dominica were the four nations drawn in Group A. All four participated at the 2022 CONCACAF W Championship qualification and will look to build on the efforts in that tournament.

Cameo Hazlewood and Mariam El-Masri are two names to look for on the goal sheet for Guyana, along with defender Sydney Cummings. All three have had multiple goal games and can lead their

team to victory.

Kai Jacobs is a name to watch as she can score during the run of play and from the penalty marker for Antigua and Barbuda. Ravalcheny van Ommeren can score goals in bunches for Suriname, while Dominica features a young scoring duo of Sari Finn and Starr Humphreys.

Group B

El Salvador, Nicaragua, Honduras, and Martinique are the four teams in Group B. The close proximity of the three

GFF President commends BFA on successful rollout of M-FAP-funded programmes

Guyana Football Federation (GFF)

President Wayne Forde has commended the Berbice Football Association (BFA) for the successful implementation of various Members-Financial Assistance Programme (M-FAP)-funded initiatives, including the recently-concluded Summer Grassroots Programme and the current Senior Men’s League.

President Forde, along with General Secretary Ian Alves, Technical Director Bryan Joseph and Competitions

Director Troy Peters, met with executive members of the Berbice Football Association, including President Abeja Trotman, on September 16 at the Guyana Teachers’ Union Hall in New Amsterdam, East Berbice- Corentyne.

The GFF team received a comprehensive overview of the Association’s football programmes, including the recently-concluded GFF Summer Grassroots Programme, the ongoing Academy Training Centre, and the Senior Men’s League.

“It was, therefore, a great opportunity to spend some time with President Abeja Trotman and his members learning more about the remarkable work they are doing to grow the game across the Association,” President Forde shared after the meeting.

The Federation’s Nine

Regional Associations have received millions in funding and gear to support grassroots camps and senior men’s leagues in Berbice, Linden,, Essequibo, and Georgetown through M-FAP, which was launched by President Forde in 2020 with the approval of Congress.

M-FAP is playing a crucial role in advancing football across Guyana by enabling Associations to effectively implement training programmes and competitions for all age groups, which aligns with President Forde’s overarching objective of professionalising and expanding the game to make it more accessible to children all across Guyana.

“The M-FAP programme is building a solid legacy within the body of the Berbice Football Association. The ongoing Senior Men’s League, the grassroots programme,

the Academy Training Centre programme are all resourced through the M-FAP Programme and is being executed successfully by the BFA Executive Committee,” President Forde added.

The discussion during the meeting also focused on the Association’s continued compliance with the GFF’s regulations, particularly in terms of good governance and transparency.

Additionally, Cougars, New Amsterdam United, Paradise, Monedderlust, Fryish, Rosignol and Ithaca football clubs received essential football gear, including bibs, cones, and footballs.

President Forde and his team will be visiting Associations in the coming weeks to receive updates on the implementation of the M-FAP Programme and the GFF Club Charter Programme.

Yoselyn Lopez and Mara Rodríguez are two players that can lift El Salvador with goals, while Nicaragua feature Yessenia Flores, who was the co-top scorer in the CONCACAF W Championship qualification tournament with 11 goals.

Kimberly Diaz is part of Honduras’ youth movement in the women’s game. Martinique will look to stamp their mark in the CONCACAF region after being ineligible to participate in Olympic qualifying.

Group C Dominican Republic, Bermuda, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Barbados make up Group C.

Manuela Lareo will be missed by the Dominican Republic for her goals, but remains with the team as part of the coaching staff for the start of a new era. Bermuda’s

future, meanwhile, is also in good hands with rising stars in LeiLanni Nesbeth and Nia Christopher.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines have a variety of players who can score, including Annesta Richards and Areka Hooper. Midfielder Soraya Toppin-Herbert will be looked at as a leader for a Barbados side ambitious to leave their best mark.”

The Lady Jags will open their CONCACAF Road to W Gold Cup campaign tomorrow, Wednesday, September 20 against Antigua and Barbuda at the Sir Viv Richards Stadium, Antigua. After which, the Women’s National team are scheduled to face off with Dominica in a ‘home’ game, on Sunday, September 24. However, according to CONCACAF, that game is set for the Wildey Turf Stadium, Bridgetown, Barbados.

New DL double-sprint champion Jackson grateful for dominant season

“Honestly, I haven’t put any thought into the Olympics yet. I just take it one season at a time. I’m healthy right now and I have probably six weeks’ break so I want to just enjoy that,” she said.

“I’ve been so focused on doing well this season and now I want to focus on having my break and then I’ll go back to the drawing board,” she added.

Finally, Jackson described the 200m at the Budapest World Championships as the high point of her season.

“Grateful” was the dominant term used by Jamaican Shericka Jackson after bringing her phenomenal 2023 season to an end at the Diamond League Final at the Prefontaine Classic in Eugene on Saturday and Sunday.

The 29-year-old entered the meet as the reigning Diamond trophy winner in the 200m and was aiming to defend that title as well as claim her maiden trophy in the 100m.

She did the latter on Friday, running 10.70 for victory. Saturday saw the twotime World Champion claim her second straight trophy in the 200m, running a meet record 21.57, her fourth straight time below 22 seconds, for a comfortable win.

Jackson mentioned after the 200m that winning both trophies has been among her goals for the past two seasons.

“Last year I wrote on my goals that I want two Diamond League trophies and I didn’t get them. I wrote that again this year and now I’ve got it and I’m grateful. It’s the end of the season, I’m healthy and I’ve run some fast times so I’m definitely grateful,” she said.

Another of Jackson’s goals this season was to break Florence Griffith-Joyner’s long-standing world record of 21.34 set in 1988.

Despite not getting it done,

Jackson was pleased with her work in 2023.

“I’m feeling good. I said it in a previous interview that If I don’t get it I’m okay, but if I do get it it’s a plus. I didn’t get it this year and I’m okay and happy. I’m still grateful for being healthy and I was so consistent. I only ran 21.4 once last season and to be able to run three this year, I’m feeling good,” she said.

Her consistency was indeed the most impressive part of her season in both the 100m and 200m.

In 14 100m races this season, Jackson ran faster than 10.8 six times including her personal best of 10.65 done to defend her Jamaican 100m title in July. Jackson also ran 10.72 for silver at the World Championships in Budapest.

In the half-lap event, Jackson ran 11 races with seven seeing her dip below 22 seconds.

In the last month alone, Jackson has run the second, fourth and eighth fastest times in history with her 21.41 at the World Championships in Budapest, 21.48 at the Brussels Diamond League and 21.57 on Sunday. Jackson also owns the third and sixth fastest times ever.

When asked about her thoughts about the upcoming Olympic year, Jackson said she just wanted to enjoy her time off.

“The 200m at the World Championships was really the high point of my season. I knew I was in pretty good shape, but I didn’t know I was going to run that fast,” she said. (Sportsmax)

The Lady Jags will be back in action tomorrow for the CONCACAF Road to W Gold Cup qualifiers

Members of the BFA are presented with equipment

Central American countries in one group will give this quartet a big rivalry feel as Martinique hope to waive the flag for the Caribbean.

Shericka Jackson after claiming 200m gold at the World Championships in Budapest

ahead of CPL play-offs

Tahir confident of Keemo Paul’s recovery

The 2023 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) play-offs will bowl off today, Tuesday, September 19 from 19:00h at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence.

St Lucia Kings and Jamaica Tallawahs will meet in the Eliminator while the big contest between Trinbago Knight Riders and Guyana Amazon Warriors will bowl off tomorrow, Wednesday, September 20 from 19:00h.

In a pre-match press conference, which was held at the Pegasus Hotel, Imran Tahir, Captain of the Warriors; Brandon King, Captain of the Tallawahs; Sikandar Raza, Captain of the Kings and Martin Guptill, stand-in captain of TKR, expressed positive sentiments ahead of the business phase of CPL 2023.

The defending champions, Tallawahs have made the play-offs, and Captain King believes that the team is clicking at the right time.

“I think it is going alright so far. In terms of the competition at this stage nothing really matters before the play-offs. Our goal was to qualify for the playoffs and we achieved that. We look like we are starting to play our cricket coming into the play-offs, that is good from a team’s perspective, and everyone in the camp is going well,” King said.

Meanwhile, Guptill who stood in place of Kieron Pollard at the press conference, said the best was yet to come for TKR. He also noted that everyone, including Dwayne Bravo, was fit and ready to play.

“We are in a pretty good space; I think everybody

had some good game time out in the middle. Whether batting, bowling or fielding, we are in a really good space, and the guys are playing really good cricket, and the best is yet to come,” Guptill said.

Captain of the Warriors, Tahir is brimming with confidence ahead of the TKR clash.

“Really looking forward to our next game. We have been playing really good cricket. We played four games in a row, so we deserve a rest today, some time to think, and yes, we are looking forward to the game which is coming ahead (against TKR).

Raza, the man from Zimbabwe, is hoping that his team can replicate the good performances shown in the league stage.

“Similar to the other teams, we are really excited, and we firstly wanted to qualify, which we have done that. What we are looking for is to have some of the

best performances that we have had, some of the good performances that we have had during the group stages, we have to try and replica those performances in the play-offs when it matters the most,” Raza said.

As it relates to Keemo Paul, Captain Tahir said that despite Paul’s injury being severe, things were looking positive for him to return to the team.

“If we make it to final, I

am sure that he will recover. His injury is a bit severe, so I am not sure that he is going to get it right. Our physio has been working hard, and things are looking positive going forward,” Tahir explained.

Guyana Amazon Warriors squad: Imran Tahir, Shimron Hetmyer, Saim Ayub, Hazratulla Zazai, Odean Smith, Romario Shepherd, Azam Khan, Shai Hope, Gudakesh

Motie, Dwaine Pretorius, Kevlon Anderson, Kevin Sinclair, Keemo Paul, Chandrapaul Hemraj, Ronsford Beaton, Matthew Nandu, and Junior Sinclair.

Jamaica Tallawahs squad: Imad Wasim, Brandon King, Fabian Allen, Mohammad Amir, Alex Hales, Chris Green, Jermaine Blackwood, Shamarh Brooks, Hayden Walsh Jr, Raymon Reifer, Amir Jangoo, Steven Taylor, Shamar Springer, Nicholson Gordon, Kirk McKenzie, and Kelvin Pitman.

Saint Lucia Kings squad: Johnson Charles (wicketkeeper); Colin Munro; Bhanuka Rajapaksa; Sean

Williams; Sikandar Raza (Captain); Roston Chase; Roshon Primus; Matthew Forde; Alzarri Joseph; Peter Hatzoglou; McKenny Clarke; Chris Sole; Khary Pierre; Jeavor Royal; Kimani Melius; Leonardo Julien; Jair McAllister and Sadrack Descarte.

Trinbago Knight Riders squad: Martin Guptill; Mark Deyal; Nicholas Pooran; Lorcan Tucker (wicketkeeper); Kieron Pollard (Captain); Andre Russell; Sunil Narine; Akeal Hosein; Jayden Seales; Ali Khan; Waqar Salamkheil; Kadeem Alleyne; Jaden Carmichael, Terrance Hinds, Tom Curran, Chadwick Walton and Dwayne Bravo.

GTT, Fortinet, LGC collab for Golf Carnival 2023

GTT Business Solutions, in a dynamic collaboration with partner company Fortinet and the Lusignan Golf Course, proudly presents Golf Carnival 2023.

This visionary partnership, unveiled during Guyana's Cricket Carnival season (September 8September 25, 2023), aims to bring businesses together for a friendly game of golf while also serving as a platform to raise awareness in the fields of cybersecurity, network management, and technology.

Orson Ferguson, Chief Operations Officer (COO) of GTT Business Solutions, emphasised the pivotal role of technological advancements in Guyana's forward trajectory.

He stated, "As Guyana progresses into a future driven by technology, it becomes imperative to not only celebrate but actively

contribute to this growth.

In line with this commitment, GTT Business Solutions is thrilled to collaborate with Fortinet and the Lusignan Golf Course in launching the inaugural Guyana Golf Carnival."

Ferguson underscored the significance of providing

a platform where businesses can stay informed about the latest technological developments, particularly in the field of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). He remarked, "What better moment than the cricket season, when festivities are in full swing, to seamlessly merge celebrations with opportunities for network-

ing and knowledge sharing?" The tournament commences with a practice round on Friday, September 22, followed by the official tournament on September 23, starting at 05:30h (5:30am) . Golfers and enthusiasts alike will converge at the Lusignan Golf Course, to vie for a share of prizes totalling $1

million.

Bhagwat Persaud, the Regional Account Manager for Fortinet Guyana and Suriname, who was equally enthusiastic about this partnership and recognising the growing importance of ICT in the nation’s evolving landscape, stated, "We are extremely excited about this newly-formed alliance and the unique opportunity it presents. This partnership goes beyond the golf course; it's about fostering a space for networking, learning from each other, and collectively contributing to the advancement of technology in Guyana. It undoubtedly adds an extra layer of excitement to the ongoing festivities.”

President of the Lusignan Golf Club (LGC), Pantanjilee Persaud, also expressed enthusiasm in hosting the Golf Carnival. The event offers a unique

platform where golf enthusiasts and business professionals, including those from the ICT field, can engage in friendly competition, network, share knowledge, and celebrate the spirit of competition and camaraderie.

As the nation’s digital landscape continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, Golf Carnival 2023 is an exciting event that combines the thrill of golf with the opportunity to network and engage in meaningful discussions about ICT in Guyana. This initiative exemplifies GTT's and Fortinet’s commitment to fostering growth among businesses in Guyana.

Fortinet is a cybersecurity company with headquarters in Sunnyvale, California. The company develops and sells security solutions like firewalls, endpoint security and intrusion detection systems.

LGC President Pantanjilee Persaud

GTT Business Solutions COO Orson Ferguson

Kings will rely on Alzarri Joseph and co

Chris Green and company have clicked at the right time for Tallawahs

Warriors are the best team in the tournament

The big boys for TKR will return for Warriors clash