Guyana Times - Wednesday, February 21, 2024

US$37.5M earned from carbon credits already for P 2024 – Jagdeo 11

Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 5649

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024

India keen to work with Guyana on energy – PM Modi

WHAT'S INSIDE:

MoU signed for US$10M investment in cassava P14 processing plant in Guyana

Page 3

…to create over 100 jobs, provide opportunities for rural communities

Venezuela border controversy

Guyana working with Venezuela to ensure peace prevails – Pres Ali

Healthcare P10 worker dies after vehicle plunges into trench

Page 7

Dominican Republic Business “Your Chamber launched in Guyana investments See story on page 2

Berbice man caught with P10 ganja on Essequibo Coast

will be safe” 9 new Magistrates take – VP tells oath of office international companies Weeklong traffic

P21

…“best is yet to come” – Ambassador

Page 18

Gas-to-Energy Project

Citizens could benefit from 50% reduction in GPL rates by mid-2025 – Brassington

enforcement yields 2911 P12 traffic violations

Page 15

2 NEWS “Your investments will be safe” – VP tells international companies I WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

nvestors coming into Guyana for potential opportunities as the country maps out a robust economy driven by its oil wealth have been assured that investments will be safe here.

Making this commitment was Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo as day two of the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo got underway on Tuesday. The third edition of the conference is being held under the theme: “Fuelling Transformation and Modernisation.”

Jagdeo pointed out that Guyana was not aiming to be the next Qatar or United Arab Emirates (UAE), but, rather, would be guided by its own model which addresses the needs of investors while enhancing the lives of citizens.

He disclosed, “I want to assure you that your investments in this country will be safe. You’d have a government that balances the needs of investors and need to earn and do well with the task of ensuring that the country benefits more too.

We’re not going to be Qatar or UAE. We don’t want to be…Our model will be different. It will be a model where the people of this country will enjoy in the future, some of the best standard of living that you can experience any-

A section of the gathering at the conference on Tuesday

where in the world.”

Despite hikes in both public and private spending, the Vice President addressed concerns regarding the country’s inflation and exchange rate – both of which have remained steady.

“We have increased our budget significantly. We have a massive Private Sector spending and the two together would lead to over-

heating of the economy, but yet, our inflation rate is below regional average. And the exchange rate has not appreciated nor has it depreciated significantly. It is a free-floating exchange rate. It is depending on supply and demand for currency. So, we have been tackling that variable, it is important to us.

“We welcome the invest-

ments from foreign companies. We have worked dedicatedly over a number of years to create an environment, so that people who come to this country can earn a good return on their capital and contribute to the development of our country,” the VP underscored.

For those who have lamented that Government has been borrowing too much, Jagdeo reiterated that Guyana has one of the lowest debt-to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratios as well as debt-to-servicing ratios in the world.

The former Head of State stated, “Our external debt, with a US$22 billion economy is lower in nominal terms than our debt in 1990. Just think about that. It’s US$1.8 billion in nominal terms. At that time, the economy was US$300 million. So, our ca-

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

pacity to borrow is enhanced, but we’re not splurging on it.

Almost all of our debt so far is on fixed terms.”

Renewable energy investments

Meanwhile, Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat contended that there was stability and predictability in Guyana for those willing to partner.

Turning to his portfolio, the Minister also contributed to the burning topics of energy transition, cutting emissions and maintaining Guyana’s carbon-negative status. Bharrat voiced that

there must be a just and equitable transition, where accessibility and affordability are guiding pillars in the energy security rollout. This is especially the case with regions such as Caricom which require US$14 billion for this transition.

The Natural Resources Minister highlighted that there were major gaps in investments for renewables, and countries such as Guyana should be able to harness its natural resources to make this transition in keeping with global commitTURN TO PAGE 7 ments.

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

BRIDGE The Demerara OPENINGS Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, February 21 – 02:30h-04:00h and Thursday, February 22 – 03:30h-05:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Wednesday, February 21 – 14:30h-16:00h and Thursday, February 22 – 15:05h-16:35h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Sunny conditions are expected throughout the day. Clear skies are expected at night.

Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to Easterly between 2.68 metres and 5.36 metres.

High Tide: 14:59h reaching a maximum height of 2.27 metres.

Low Tide: 08:32h and 21:04h reaching minimum heights of 1.09 metres and 0.90 metre.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2024

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India keen to work with Guyana on energy – PM Modi

…lauds Guyana for successfully hosting Energy Conference and Expo

I

ndia has made it clear that it is keen to work with Guyana when it comes to energy security, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Singh Modi saying that his country’s dedication to sustainable and inclusive progress perfectly aligned with Guyana and the ongoing Energy Conference and Expo.

In a written missive to Guyana, PM Modi lauded Guyana for the successful hosting of the conference, adding that there was an urgent need for strong, influential and united voices when it comes to energy, especially those from the global south and the developing world.

“Often, these are the nations that have the least carbon footprint, as well as the greatest number of people to be lifted out of poverty. As a responsible and conscientious global partner, India recognises the importance of nurturing international cooperation to give a pro-people and pro-planet direction to the energy sector.

“In this mission, this conference hosted by Guyana will also help in meeting the twin needs of access to energy, as well as smooth energy transition,” Modi said in his message, emphasising his country’s dedication to sustainable energy.

According to Modi, India has done much to demonstrate its dedication to sustainable energy, including through the Global Biofuels Alliance and the International Solar Alliance.

He also emphasised India’s preparedness to work with Guyana.

“Our dedication to sustainable and inclusive progress harmonises perfectly well with the underlying objectives of this conference.

India is keen about working with Guyana and the world

File photo: President Dr Irfaan Ali and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Singh Modi at a meeting in 2023

in executing energy projects and fostering capacity building endeavours in the spheres of conventional and renewable energy. We can all learn from each other’s experiences and best practices in the energy sector,” he noted.

When it comes to the conference itself, Modi was hopeful that the gathering of global experts and policy-makers would be able to come up with innovative solutions, as well as increased collaborations. He also offered best wishes to Guyana on making the expo a resounding success.

Guyana-India ties are at an all-time high. Only recently, it had been revealed that India sourced as much as US$149 million in crude oil from Guyana between 2021 and 2022. This growth in the hydrocarbon trade between the two countries was described as an all-time high

by India’s Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs and Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri.

In a social media statement following talks ear-

lier this month with Guyana’s Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, who was present in India for the India Energy Week in Quitol, Goa, Puri noted that they discussed ways in which they could further expand and cement ties between the two countries.

India is already expected to partner with Guyana in critical areas in the oil and gas sector, including refining crude oil, as the Modi-led Indian Government approved the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two nations last month.

According to a statement from the Indian Bureau of Information, the Indian Cabinet approved the signing of the MoU between the Indian Ministries of Petroleum and Natural Gas and Guyana’s Ministry of Natural Resources, which will last for five years.

This MoU would see India sourcing crude from Guyana, an arrangement that it had previously utilised in 2021,etc, when HPCL-Mittal

Energy Ltd (HMEL), a joint venture between the Staterun Hindustan Petroleum Corp and Indian steel tycoon LN Mittal, bought Guyana’s crude.

It was also announced in January last year that India, to where President Dr Irfaan Ali had led a delegation of Guyanese earlier that month, had made an initial proposal on the direct long-term purchase of crude.

At the time, it had been announced that Guyana was examining the proposal at a technical level.

Another area the MoU covers is cooperation with Guyana for crude oil refining. Additionally, it will create opportunities for Indian companies to explore and produce oil in Guyana and for collaboration on natural gas.

At the governmental level, the MoU allows for capacity building, strengthening bilateral trade, collaborating to develop oil and gas-related regulations and cooperation on renewable and clean energy, including biofuels and solar energy. (G3)

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024

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Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064Accounts: 225-6707 Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Industrial Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

Govt’s good results on pressing women’s issues

O

ne of the best ways by which individuals can be empowered is by an appropriate education and creation of empowerment programmes to enable equitable opportunities for upward mobility for every citizen. Yet, disadvantaged women and youths proliferate, not only in Guyana, but in the Caribbean and further afield as well.

Societies in general are veering away from male domination in workplaces, and Government and the Private Sector are determined to provide equal opportunities for employees, regardless of gender.

The issue of women and their role in development has always been a topic of interest, and debates have centred around the challenges women face in getting access to the same opportunities as men; and, in a general sense, programmes and policies that could be implemented to ensure their economic and social advancement.

Women, over the years, have made tremendous progress, not only in terms of their own advancement, but by playing key roles in the development of their own communities, and, by extension, allowing other women opportunities to develop themselves.

However, many challenges remain, and these must be tackled to ensure that women have access to the opportunities and resources needed to allow them to lead more productive and fulfilling lives.

However, women – the child-bearers and primary child-carers – are disadvantaged by domestic responsibilities, and many men abdicate their responsibilities in parenting and being equal partners in the home.

There is a dire need for men to create behavioural change in their domestic and child-rearing engagements. The accrued benefits to the entire family would be manifold, and the satisfaction and happiness of family togetherness would redound to the wellbeing of everyone, not least the children. If they grow up in an environment of caring and sharing, most likely they would become rounded adults, and incidents of juvenile delinquency would be reduced. Most of the ills in society are caused by delinquent fathers and spouses.

Despite many attempts by successive Governments to empower/educate women and youths in diverse ways, there are still great numbers of women with leadership skills and business acumen who are constrained by diverse circumstances from optimising their potential for wealth and job creation.

Some years ago, under the Administration of former President Bharrat Jagdeo, the Human Services and Social Security Ministry, in collaboration with the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI), launched the “Women of Worth” (WoW) loan programme, which helped single-parent women start and/or expand their businesses. This initiative was driven by then subject Minister Priya Manickchand.

Through initiatives like Women of Worth, Government, in partnership with institutions like GBTI, has proven that providing enabling mechanisms can make a tangible impact on the lives of vulnerable women, and consequently their children. By removing financial obstacles, the partnership with GBTI helped women realise their true potential through building businesses. Through the WoW initiative, women used their acumen to grow local communities, build wealth, and ultimately contribute to making Guyana better as a whole.

Before their advent into politics in then British Guiana, local women were treated as beings of less worth by the colonial overlords. Women could not work in the Public Service after marriage, and they certainly could not vote, among a multiplicity of human/women’s rights constraints.

Over the years, intrepid women fought for equality, and after much struggle and countless engagements at various fora, women were permitted greater freedoms in the socio-political dynamics of the nation. Today, women proliferate in leadership roles in every sphere of activity in the nation.

One of the most pressing needs for working mothers is the provision of safe childcare facilities in communities and workplaces. There are innumerable retired nurses and teachers who would certainly happily accept employment in such facilities.

The President Dr Irfaan Ali Administration has had very good results with addressing pressing social issues and projects slated to empower women in the society.

The Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry on Tuesday unveiled its Mashramani 2024 band themed "Explosion of Culture and Economic Prosperity: Celebrating Through a Tapestry of Adventure”. The unveiling took place at the National Exhibition Centre (Tourism Ministry photo)

Guyana needs ‘ethnic impact’ statements Dear Editor, I was attracted to an article written by Professor Randy Persaud on Mr Nigel Hughes’ call for “Truth and Reconciliation” of the atrocities that had been committed over the decades”. Mr Hughes has been a strong advocate for Afro-Guyanese in terms of equality and fairness within the past three years. During the PNCR-led coalition government (2015-2020), his political advocacy in this regard was not visible. Perhaps he needed some time to recover from his mathematical perversion that 34 is a majority of 65 in the Guyana Parliament!

Mr Hughes’ position regarding his advocacy for “Truth and Reconciliation” seems to be a variant of the PNC’s “Declaration of Sophia”. It represents a search by Opposition elements to include, among other things, the creation of a vision and a plan for Guyana’s development in which their group wants to be integral. They hope that the re-imagining of PNCR’s approach to politics would serve as a counter to President Ali’s “One Guyana” evolving philosophy.

Prof Randy Persaud, in his critique of Mr Hughes’ position, asks why the Report of the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into Dr Walter Rodney’s assassination was treated with disdain by the PNCR-led coalition. He also wants to know why Mr Hughes and others would want more Commissions of Inquiry when their outcomes are more beneficial for academic interests. Citing other examples of political assassinations, Prof Randy says that the attempts by PNCR operatives to link issues of

Afro-Guyanese with those of American Blacks is a false equivalence.

What strikes me the most, however, is why Prof Randy left out the glaring bastardisation of the Presidency when Mr LFS Burnham was placed on the CIA payroll between 1969 and 1971 and was in receipt of US$ 5000 per month for two consecutive years. Three years later (1974), President Burnham announced party paramountcy where the PNC party was the supreme authority of the land to which all Government agencies, including the Judiciary, were subservient. That was an unprecedented seizure of power that also crushed the sovereignty of the people. If there is a matter that requires “Truth and Reconciliation”, it would be this incalculable abuse by the Presidency that must rank at the apex, followed by election rigging which is the mother of all corruption. But where would these take us?

When I wrote two days ago that the PNCR party might move away from election rigging and develop a different strategy to win political power, there erupted a political explosion ignited by the controversial PNCR member Mr Hamilton Green (Elder) who stated: “if they say he (Mr Burnham) rigged elections, I say we should keep rigging, so to save us from these devils, these bastards, these demons.” Mr Hughes and Mr Vincent Alexander were in attendance. Have they distanced themselves from this level of recklessness and bigotry?

The position of the PNCR in re-imagining their structure and ide-

als becomes murkier when a prominent trade unionist had asked President Granger to cancel the 2020 elections. These public outbursts are a blatant affront to democracy. They also suggest turmoil within the Opposition which seeks to plunder democratic norms in their quest for State power.

Why do we need a “Truth and Reconciliation” investigation to explain obvious and clear outlandish utterances? It was under Mr David Granger’s regime that a similar Truth and Reconciliation proposal was advanced, but Mr David Granger, being also an astute historian, knew that it would not be to the advantage of the governing APNU/AFC party, so he determined instead to conduct a downgraded one-member CoI only into the Lindo Creek murders.

Enough evidence is available to suggest that the best way to resolve problems of discrimination (ethnic, gender, region) is not necessarily through inquiries which have historically had very little impact on outcomes, but by engaging the people in every neighbourhood and using that experience in conjunction with existing data to empower people through housing, health, education, and jobs.

Let the data speak to the PPP/C’s Government’s progress in empowerment!

The PPP/C Government has: (1) awarded 30,355 house lots as of 2023 and built 1240 houses and is in the process of building another 1467 houses for low-income, moderate-income, and young professionals; (2) awarded over 21,000 GOAL scholarships; (3) created over 13,000 per-

manent part-time jobs; (4) trained (or has in training) 99% of teachers; constructed three secondary schools, namely, Hope, Westminster, and Prospect, and has under construction nine secondary schools with another 13 to begin construction in 2024 as well as six primary schools; (5) established a Paediatric and Maternity Hospital at Ogle, built a new Hospital at New Amsterdam, and is in process of building six new state-of-the art regional hospitals plus upgrading the Bartica, Suddie, West Demerara and Lethem Hospitals.

These are powerful empowerment tools/methods that synchronise with President Ali’s evolving philosophy of “One Guyana” that addresses problems of discrimination, equal access to opportunity, balanced regional development, fair play, and justice. However, some caveats are vital: (1) equal access does not necessarily lead to equal outcomes; (2) no country, including Guyana, could completely eliminate inequality or poverty; (3) incentives for risk taking must not be stultified; and (4) Guyana must avoid a “handout” economy that would disincentivise people to work.

What might be more beneficial in terms of fairness, equality, and justice, is to consider the launch of a project on GER (Gender, Ethnic, and Regional) Impact Statements as these would produce empirical evidence of any significant imbalances in these categories. Corrective measures could then be considered for implementation.

Sincerely, Dr Tara Singh

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024

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The power of gas Dear Editor, Qatar is just a small dusty, flat piece of land that is scarcely arable and with very little rainfall and no rivers to use for irrigation.

When Guyana gained independence in 1966, the prospects, then, for living in Qatar was bleak with limited fishing and pearl diving. In 1966, its GDP per capita was double Guyana’s; in 2023, it is almost 19 times more.

This story tells the power of gas.

If Qatar was to only rely on oil, it would have never been as rich as it is today and that story has much relevance to Guyana.

Therefore, when one listened to His Excellency Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s statement at the Guyana Energy Conference, they would hear him revealing aspects of the Guyana Gas Plan, which to my mind was nothing but refreshing and reinvigorating.

In this letter, therefore, my task will be to focus on Qatar and the idea of how

they used gas to unleash their potential and the relevance that story has to Guyana’s future.

But most importantly to ask all Guyanese who are having doubts about where we are, to suspend those doubts and deeply apply their minds to this National Gas Strategy to be able to better understand how and why gas matters to Guyana more than oil.

In 1971, Qatar found the geographic discovery of the century and it was not oil, it was GAS. Shell found an off-shore gas field in the middle of the Persian Gulf.

At that time, Shell could not economically harvest these gas reserves and so it abandoned the project.

Enters ExxonMobil and a Qatari leader in 1995, named Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani. By 2010, this team transformed Qatar into the richest nation per capita in the world.

It took Qatar 15 years with the support of

Govt cannot operate under duress

Dear Editor, From the commencement of the strike, the GTU was chastised for its use of the strikers to score cheap political points for the party to whom they hold bold allegiance. The union in their response to that was a prompt denial and a statement which said that their protest action was purely an industrial exercise and not political. Well, let us reluctantly accept that excuse for a moment; however, subsequent revelations clearly refuted that argument.

In the first place, the General Secretary of the GTU is a sitting Member of Parliament with a vested interest in APNU, if this is not being political, then what is? She advocates APNU's policies to the letter. Secondly, the strike was visited and supported by notable figures from the Opposition such as Lincoln Lewis and Hamilton Green.

This last-mentioned fossil came out in full support of the strike, not a bad idea to begin with, because in a democracy like ours, one is free to support an effort purely based on concern for their plight. But how concerned is Hammie I would ask, because he later went on a public platform to deify Burnham and embraced the despicable system of rigging. In his opinion, Guyana should not only reinstitute rigging, but continue to educate the young people into the art of rigging. What a fantastic idea, by a disgraceful man! What is interesting to know, is

that the GTU never denounced Hamilton Green's statement.

Then, the visit of the Obeah man/woman, this was another high point as the strike progressed, here the GTU was quick to denounce him as being a man of unsound mind. But if you closely follow what took place in the aftermath of the elections of 1997 and 2020, you would see the very same performance by the Opposition. During that time there were seances being kept at various places, to invoke a win for their party.

One cannot run away from the undeniable fact that Obeah or Voodoo is intricately woven into the fabric of that party and The Seven Ponds experience is testament to this.

Whenever those that are opposed to progress is backed up against the wall, they would consult with the occult. But this is not going to work, no progress can be made on the streets or by occult means, the only way forward is by meaningful and progressive consultations.

In closing, I would say, the faster they get off the road, put away the political baggage and get back to the negotiating table, it would be the best thing that ever happened to them and the country as a whole. The Government cannot operate under duress.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

ExxonMobil and western money to build up the largest and most competitive Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) business in the world. It was all about the scale.

This conglomerate constructed the largest artificial deep-water harbour in the world. They also commissioned some of the largest LNG container ships to feed the Japanese, Korean and Singaporean markets and generated more than a trillion US dollars in revenues from Asia alone in the last decade. In other words, there is real money in gas and Guyana still has a great opportunity in its gas sector.

At business school and in the executive offices, the reality has always manifested itself in the concept of “he who takes the risk, exhibits the entrepreneurial spirit, assembles the finance and takes the responsibility for getting the job done” is entitled to the bounties of the investment. So who is taking the risks? Who is assembling

the finance? Who is taking the responsibility for getting the job done?

Therefore, the fact that ExxonMobil has found so much gas in its oil exploration efforts gives Guyana a golden opportunity to lead from the front on this local gas sector. While we have benefited from US$1.6 billion in new cash injections from the oil in 2023, as a nation, we stand to gain much more if we focus on this National Gas Strategy as presented by His Excellency on February 19, 2024 at the Energy Conference.

The oil is a means to an end and the real end game is food security, energy security, and climate security with a menu of homegrown businesses that will foster human development in a sustainable manner for the next 100 years as we as a people unleash our true potential.

While I would want to focus on the gas, I want to close my submission on the oil by stating that the

risk-takers are contractually entitled to be rewarded fairly for the risks they have taken or else every single international firm will treat Guyana as a contract breaker and a possible pariah state with a banana republic mentality.

The core principle of contract law remains “pacta sunt servanda” which translates to “once both parties have agreed to and signed a valid contract, they are legally bound to fulfil their obligations under the terms”.

Former President of Guyana and now Vice President of Guyana, Bharrat Jagdeo clearly understood the scope and depth of this oil investment when he stated many years ago in 2020 that “if we take all of the deposits of every single Guyanese and the Government in the banking system and put them all together, it still would not have been enough to finance the Liza1 Project”. Those who are thinking must ponder and

understand the gravity of that statement.

That is why the statement at the Energy Conference from His Excellency, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali is so relevant today under the theme “Fuelling Transformation and Modernisation”. The Guyana Gas Master Plan must be embraced, exploited in a Guyanese-led framework and monetised in our people’s favour.

On February 19, 2024, His Excellency also reminded the nation of the transformational project that links Northern Brazil to New Amsterdam with a deep-water port. This is where the money has to be spent.

My humble suggestion to all is to support His Excellency, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali and this grand idea of implementing the National Gas Strategy as soon as possible.

Regards, Sasenarine Singh

Where is the outrage?

Dear Editor, The wounds of electoral turmoil run deep in the collective memory of Guyanese citizens, still fresh from the prolonged saga of the March 2020 General and Regional Elections. The spectre of that five-month delay in declaring results looms ominously, serving as a stark reminder of the fragility of democratic processes.

Yet, shockingly, less than four years later, echoes of electoral manipulation resurface, this time not as a cautionary tale but as a brazen suggestion from a former General Secretary of the People’s National Congress (PNC), Hamilton Green.

In a statement that reverberated through the nation, Hamilton Green, a figure with a disreputable political history, openly proposed the utilisation of election rigging to unseat the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration.

His words, uttered with a chilling nonchalance, encapsulate a dangerous sentiment that threatens the very foundations of democracy in Guyana.

"It was Burnham's wisdom which got him into office in 1964. And if they say he rigged elections, I say we should keep rigging," he declared, invoking the legacy of past electoral manipulation as a blueprint for current political strategy.

The audacity of Green's proposition raises profound questions about the

moral compass of Guyana's political landscape and the integrity of its democratic institutions. Where is the outrage, one might ask, from those who pride themselves on being civic-minded? In a nation where the scars of electoral injustice are still raw, the silence in the face of such brazen advocacy for subverting the democratic process is deafening.

The absence of vocal condemnation from the usually vociferous “civil society” underscores a troubling complacency that threatens to normalise the erosion of electoral integrity. It is a stark reminder that the defence of democratic values requires unwavering vigilance and an unyielding commitment to upholding the principles of fairness and transparency.

The implications of Green's words extend far beyond the realm of political rhetoric; they strike at the heart of Guyana's democratic aspirations. To condone or even entertain the notion of election rigging is to betray the trust of the electorate and undermine the legitimacy of the entire political system.

In the face of such blatant disregard for democratic norms, there can be no room for equivocation or ambiguity. The preservation of democracy demands unequivocal condemnation of any attempt to subvert the will of the people through electoral manipulation. It requires a collective commitment to holding accountable those

who seek to undermine the integrity of the electoral process, regardless of their political affiliations or past accomplishments.

Hamilton Green’s words serve as a sobering reminder of the fragility of democracy and the constant vigilance required to safeguard it. The true test of Guyana's commit-

ment to democracy lies not in the words of its politicians but in the actions of its citizens who must rise above partisan interests to defend the fundamental principles upon which their nation was founded.

Sincerely, Alvin Hamilton

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024

06:00 (Sign on) Inspiration Time 06:30 Cartoons 07:00 Evening News (RB) 08:00 Stop Suffering 09:00 Guy's Grocery Games 10:00 Grand Designs 11:00 Paternity Court 11:30 Divorce Court 12:00 News Break 12:05 Movie - Inkheart (2008) 14:00 The Loud House S1 E21 14:30 Spongebob Squarepants 15:00 Indian Soaps 16:00 Drake & Josh S2 E14 16:30 Victorious S2 E6 17:00 The Young & The Restless 18:00 CNN 19:00 The Evening News 20:00 Stop Suffering 20:30 Stand-up Comedy 21:00 Manifest S4 E20 22:00 The Crown S5 E8 23:00 The Office S5 E15 23:30 Insecure S3 E1 00:00 Sign off

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024

Foundation ◄

Page

Exponents

by Owen Campbell

Exercises: Solve

Practise the letters of the alphabet while learning about the diversity of dinosaurs.

Before you play

Name all of the types of dinosaurs you know. Write down each guess, but don’t worry about the spelling. No one really knows how many different kinds of dinosaurs were there millions of years ago, because people were not around to record that information.

Scientists have discovered fossils and

other clues to help them identify different types of dinosaurs. And, fossils are still being discovered every year.

Materials

26 index cards (4x6 or 5x7) Thick marker Crayons

Directions

Step 1: Write each letter of the alphabet on an index card. Be sure to

write it big enough. Use capital letters Step 2: Decorate each of the cards, being careful not to hide the letter. Put a tape loop on the back of each card, then tape them in a line on a blank wall or on the floor.

Step 3: Research names of dinosaurs to match the letters “A to Z”. If you wish, you can draw and colour the named dinosaurs or use a picture for each named dinosaur. (Adapted from pbs.org)

By the slow moon you saw The living sea and the jewels, Bright on each wave in the light, Hung soft in the breathing night.

In the still air the hills And the sloping capes are silent.

Only the sea moves, wishing In wind of the wavesí washing.

Your ship slid softly in, And was bright in the day before It stood still in the quiet Pool of images it brought.

Visitor to islands.

Feel depth of the sky in your heart, Peer at the hills huddled there, Find peace in the moonlit air; For here is no Korea Where thunder is the softest word, Where daylight meets casualty And the blown smoke heartlessly.

Here is the dance of light On the speaking sea, and meaning In the calm of craft that lie With tall masts searching the sky.

“La bouche garde le silence Pour ecouter parler le cour;” And the jewels by moonlight Flash swiftly on in the night.

WORD SEARCH

JUMP RELEVE STAGE THEATRE SONG POINT RUMBA

MOVE DANCE MUSIC TUTU HULA PILATES ZUMBA

CHILDREN BALLERINA PIROUETTE TURN WALTZ RHYTHM

NEWS

7

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Venezuela border controversy

Guyana working with Venezuela to ensure peace prevails – Pres Ali P

resident Dr Irfaan Ali has assured the global community, including investors, that his country was working along with Venezuela, through regional leaders, including the Caribbean Community (Caricom), to ensure the Region remains a zone of peace and that the border controversy does not escalate.

The Head of State gave the assurance while being interviewed by Bloomberg, on Tuesday.

President Ali explained that the Government took any threat to its sovereignty seriously and was building up its defence capabilities.

However, he explained that the “primary focus” of his Government was to ensure Guyana and Venezuela could work together to ensure the Region remained “stable and peaceful”.

This, he noted, is being done with support from regional and international leaders from the United States, United Kingdom, Caricom and Canada, among others.

“We’re sure of our borders and in 1899, our borders were settled, Venezuelan

Building defence capabilities

President of Guyana, Dr Irfaan Ali during the interview with Bloomberg

participated in the settlement of those borders…there is absolutely no doubt as to where our borders are…a controversy was raised by Venezuela decades upon decades after, when we were going to independence and that controversy is before the ICJ [International Court of Justice],” he explained.

“We believe that any threat of our territorial integrity, any threat on our borders must be taken seriously and that is what we are doing… we are working with Venezuela now through Caricom to ensure that this does not escalate, because our primary focus is to en-

sure the Region remains stable and the region remains peaceful, “the Guyanese Leader added.

In December 2023, President Ali and his Venezuelan counterpart Nicolás Maduro signed the Argyle Declaration in which they agreed not to use force or threaten the use of force in the border controversy.

Since that development in St Vincent and the Grenadines, the Foreign Ministers of both nations met in Brazil to continue talks on both countries working together on areas of common interest.

Another meeting between

the two Presidents is likely.

In the meantime, President Ali has made it clear that Guyana is committed to pursuing a peaceful settlement of the controversy, through ICJ. He explained that the facts of the matter were clear and that the majority of the international community stood in solidarity with Guyana.

In this regard, he emphasised that “investors need not to worry, because their investments are clearly in the territorial space of Guyana”.

Amid reports of Venezuela building a military base within the vicinity of the GuyanaVenezuela border, President Ali reiterated that the Government of Guyana was investing heavily in the modernisation of its armed forces.

This includes accumulating the highest level of technology, increasing human capacity and infrastructure.

Further, the Guyanese Leader explained that a series of rigorous joint military training between Guyana, France and the United Kingdom is slated to commence soon.

Guyana is also working closely with the US and regional security system to conduct several series of military training.

We are a country that respects the rule of law, we are a country that abides by international law and that is why we respectfully ask Venezuela to participate and be a responsible member of the international community and to respect the outcome of the ICJ… But for us

it is a threat and we’re taking it seriously, and we’re ensuring that we do everything to secure and protect the territorial space of Guyana,” President Ali said.

Increased joint training

Recently, the Guyanese and French militaries agreed to conduct increased joint training, with more units of the local military slated to be engaged.

On February 15, Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Colonel General Staff, Kenlloyd Roberts and a team of officers welcomed French Captain (Navy) Laurent Martin and his team for a courtesy call at Defence Headquarters, Base Camp Ayanganna, Thomas Lands, Georgetown.

In a post on social media, the GDF said that during discussions, Guyana and France renewed their commitment to cooperate and mitigate shared challenges.

It was also noted that trainings conducted since bilateral relations were established between the two countries were acknowledged.

(G1)

“Your investments will be...

FROM PAGE 2

Bharrat told the audience, “We must be allowed, too, to develop our natural resources in a sustainable, responsible manner so that we get the resources to transition to renewable energy. Otherwise, we will never achieve the target of 100 per cent renewable by 2050.”

He further explained, “When we speak of energy security, we must always think of accessibility and affordability…Today, we are told that we need to move away from fossil fuels and that we need to achieve 100 per cent renewable energy, but is there

enough investment in moving towards renewable energy? Is there enough resources being made available? If you ask any country in the world what is their challenge in moving fast towards renewable energy, there is one answer: resources, financing and money. It’s costly.”

Government has been making efforts to boost the country’s energy capacity.

These include the 300 megawatt Gas-to-Energy project, which, when it comes online, could see Guyana saving between US$150 million and US$200 million in foreign

currency that would otherwise have been invested in the country’s fuel importation. At the same time, the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project is being pursued.

Just a few months ago at COP28, Guyana used its platform in Dubai to emphasise the stark reality that persisting with a doctrinarian approach would not lead to the achievement of net-zero goals. While Guyana was capable of making investments in renewables, it was highlighted that this was not true for many countries in the region. (G12)

8

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Political…

Y

…PNC violence

our Eyewitness is still bemused by Hamilton “Bilal” Green’s deliberate spilling of his guts in a desperate effort to rouse his Burnham Foundation audience to (violent) action. Yesterday, we dealt with his recommendation that the PNC should continue rigging elections to keep out the “bastards” PPP from office!!

But rigging’s backroom stuff. Today we expand on his comment on the other prong to that end – violence.

“When things were going quiet Burnham called a young gentleman who was at the centre of Congress Place… and said ‘Why is the city so quiet?’ And that gentleman acted and brought Jagan to his senses when he had said to the workers ‘not a cent more’.” What was the context? By the end of 1961, the CIA had already recruited Burnham to their plan to oust Cheddi’s PPP Government. Not so incidentally, Cheddi’s remark was directed at the Senior Civil Servants in early 1962 – who he felt were being adequately compensated – but they riled up the ordinary workers. He and D’Aguiar unleashed the Black Friday Feb 16, 1962 riots. They urged their urban supporters to raze Georgetown’s business district and demonstrate to Jagan that he was in office but not in power – in more ways than one! Especially in Georgetown!!

Burnham had discovered the utility of using violence to counter Jagan’s advantage of numbers in matters electoral!! He’s on record on the now declassified US files as demanding weapons from the CIA and AFL/CIO agents to take on the PPP. And in May of 1963, in a search of PNC operatives’ homes and offices, the Police uncovered the infamous X-13 Plan that had been compiled on how and who would execute the programme of violence. So when in early 1963, Jagan introduced the “Labour Relations Bill”, Burnham was ready!! The young Hamilton Green was “at the centre of Congress Place” as its General Secretary by then and his name is replete in the X-13 plan.

But they called the infamous “80-Day Strike” – longest in the Commonwealth at the time – that spread across the country and started the ethnic cleansing of our villages!!

Green the PNC thug gotta be the “young gentleman”, he bigs up himself as, who started the mayhem in Georgetown where at least seventeen were killed, hundreds brutalised and millions in damage were inflicted!!

Burnham later admitted that labour issues weren’t the “causa bella” – the cause of the war –- but the “casus bella” – simply the occasion for the war! HE also revealed much when he showed off!! And we now know all the talk about “discrimination”, etc, against African Guyanese are merely occasions to create the next war to oust the PPP. Again!! …mileage Just saw the Chinese celebrating “170 years of China’s contribution to Guyana”. Now your Eyewitness knows that our first Chinese arrived here as indentured labourers in 1853 – 170 years ago. But that was because the British had seized parts of China – and as usual, exploited the people there in whatever manner they could. The Chinese Government was rightfully totally OPPOSED to this exploitation – since, unlike in India, China was never a colony and ruled by Britain.

So, here we gotta make a distinction between “China” the state and the overseas “Chinese people” – who weren’t sent out to “develop” countries like Guyana!!

Whatever they did, they did so on their own. But what the heck…in its drive for world domination China feels it gotta use whatever means necessary, innit?? But we should be looking at the present wave of Chinese who’re taking over supermarkets all over our land. These are the result of a conscious policy of the Chinese Government…and we gotta be careful.

Should we worry only about Venezuelan fifth columnists?? …hustler?

Former US President Trump showed up at Philadelphia’s Sneaker Con, hocking a brand of sneakers that go all the way up to US$$399!! Well, we gotta cut him some slack – he was just fined US$355 million for business malpractices!!.

The views expressed in this column are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Guyana Times’ editorial policy and stance

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

9

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

10 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Berbice man caught with Healthcare worker dies after ganja on Essequibo Coast vehicle plunges into trench A New Amsterdam, Berbice resident was arrested on Monday at a Police roadblock on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) after he was caught with a quantity of marijuana.

Reports are that the man of Angoy's Avenue, New Amsterdam, was arrested around 15:10h by Police in Regional Division Number Two while he was a passenger, along with other persons, in a vehicle that was stopped at a roadblock.

The other occupants and the vehicle were searched, but nothing illegal was found, but a search of his person revealed 126.7 grams of marijuana.

It is alleged that the man had drugs stashed in a multi-coloured haversack that contained a quantity of clothing and other personal effects. The drugs were found wrapped up in stretch jeans in the haversack.

The suspect was questioned about the findings and cautioned, after which he allegedly told Police that he was going to work in the

A

Dead: Mashaun Tyrell

The ganja that was found at the roadblock on the Essequibo Coast

North West District (NWD) and he was taking the marijuana to smoke while there.

Police arrested him and

escorted him to the Suddie Police Station. He remains in custody pending charges.

(G9)

healthcare worker is now dead after he lost control of the vehicle he was driving and plunged into a trench along the Railway Embankment Road, in the vicinity of Conversation Tree, Greater Georgetown.

Dead is 33-year-old Mashaun Tyrell.

The David Street, Kitty, Georgetown resident was behind the wheel of his motor car, PZZ 9863, when he lost control about 03:00h on Tuesday.

Reports are that Tyrell had reportedly attended the Energy Conference on Monday at the Marriott Hotel, Georgetown and was later in the afternoon called by some of his friends to join them at the Giftland Mall on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD).

It was reported that following his social engage-

The submerged vehicle in the trench

ment, Tyrell left and proceeded west along the Railway Embankment.

However, he lost control of his vehicle while navigating a left bend.

This caused the vehicle to overturn, land in a nearby trench and submerge.

Tyrell was trapped inside the wreckage for an extended period until the in-

tervention of the Guyana Fire and Rescue Service.

Subsequently, Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) extricated Tyrell from the driver's seat and transferred him to the Accident and Emergency Unit at Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

(G9)

NEWS

11

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

US$37.5M earned from carbon credits already for 2024 – Jagdeo …more credits to be certified soon G

uyana has already earned US$37.5 million for the sale of high-quality carbon credits for 2024, from the multiyear agreement with United States energy -major Hess Corporation, which carries a total value of US$750 million.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo made this disclosure during his presentation at the ongoing Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo at the Marriott Hotel on Tuesday.

Last year, the country received US$150 million from this deal, under which 33.7 million credits were sold to Hess Corp, amounting to 30 per cent of the carbon sink contained in Guyana’s vast forest cover.

“We have received $37.5 million already for this year and we are receiving another US$50 million in a few months’ time. Of the US$150 million (last year), US$22.5 million went to the Indigenous communities – 15 per cent of it. They have now implemented over 811 projects in 242 Indigenous villages,” Jagdeo disclosed.

The remainder of the money is being used to fund adaptation measures such as mobile pumps and large canals to move water from the backlands to the Atlantic Ocean among other initiatives.

The Vice President spoke on Guyana’s robust forest carbon credentials – in fact, it is the only country in the world with a jurisdictional scale certification.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

He updated that the Architecture for REDD+ Transactions (ART), which is in charge of certifying forest carbon credits so that they can be sold on the international market, will soon certify the 2021 to 2025 credits.

It is anticipated that as soon as this certification is granted, Guyana can get into the market.

“We’re already carbon negative because our forest is a huge sink. We will remain carbon negative even when we’re producing 1.5 million barrels of oil per day. That is an important thing…We sold one-third of the credit from the 2016 to 2020 period. We’re now, hopefully weeks away from certifying the 2021 to 2025 credits. They can’t be sold until they’re certified and they are being certified by the ART secretariat.”

Hess Corporation, which is one of the partners operating in the Stabroek

Block offshore Guyana, had agreed to buy 2.5 million credits per year for the period 2016-2032, for US$750 million.

The deal with Hess came on the heels of Guyana being the first country to receive a certification of more than 33 million carbon credits by ART on December 1, 2022.

While the deal is for a 10-year period, that is, 2022 to 2032, the Government was able to negotiate, as part of the sale agreement, for the oil major to also purchase some 12.5 million carbon credits from the period 2016 to 2020 – referred to as “legacy credit”.

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government has said that having carbon credits from 2016 to 2020 certified, was intended to ensure Guyana did not lose out on retroactive payments for the period when the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For

A section of the participants during the panel discussion on Tuesday

Change (APNU/AFC) coalition was in power and failed to capitalise on the potential of Guyana’s forest carbon.

The country’s more than 18 million hectares of forests are estimated to store approximately 20 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent. The remaining 70 per cent of Guyana’s carbon credits will be put on the market for future sale agreements.

For the period 2021 to 2025 in the Hess deal, Guyana’s carbon credits would be sold for US$20 per tonne, thus earning the country another US$250 million; while another US$312 million is expected during the 2025-2030 period when the credits would be sold at US$25 per tonne.

A carbon credit is a tradable permit or certificate that allows the holder of the credit the right to emit

a stated tonnage of carbon dioxide or an equivalent of another greenhouse gas.

Countries and companies that exceed their permitted limits can purchase carbon credits from nations that have low emissions such as Guyana.

It is estimated that if Guyana is able to secure the same value as it did with Hess, the country could raise some US$2.5 billion.

(G12)

12 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Weeklong traffic enforcement yields 2911 traffic violations

I

n a concerted effort to enhance road safety and curb traffic violations, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) embarked on a weeklong campaign beginning February 11, resulting in significant enforcement actions and educational outreach across various regions.

The data compiled from the week's activities show

Traffic officers conducting traffic exercises

a total of 2911 cases documented, including 729 charges and 1741 tickets issued.

One of the striking revelations from the week's enforcement efforts was the prevalence of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) cases.

Saturday emerged as the day with the highest number of DUI cases, a total of

13 . Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) topped the list with 14 recorded DUI cases.

Further, Tuesday saw a surge in traffic cases, with a staggering 552 incidents reported. Region 4B (East Bank Demerara) recorded the highest number of cases, reaching 759.

While speeding remained

a persistent issue on the roads, Region 4C (East Coast Demerara) stood out with 257 speeding cases reported.

However, amid the enforcement actions, education played a pivotal role in fostering a culture of responsible driving. Region 4A (Georgetown) took the lead in conducting educational lectures, organising a total of 15 sessions throughout the week.

These sessions covered a range of topics, including the importance of wearing safe-

ty helmets and seat belts, the dangers of speeding, and the benefits of planning travel routes.

In total, 31 educational sessions were held, targeting drivers, pedestrians, E-bike operators, and business proprietors. In addition to educational initiatives, enforcement actions were robust, with 441 summonses served and 33 warrants executed during the period.

Also, 616 speeding tickets were issued, reflecting the authorities' commitment to deterring hazardous driving behaviours.

The gravity of the situation was further underscored by the revelation that 40 DUI cases were recorded during the week, with at least 10 offenders registering blood alcohol levels above the legal limit of 0.120 micrograms.

13

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

14 NEWS MoU signed for US$10M investment in cassava processing plant WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

…project to create over 100 jobs, provide opportunities for rural communities

T

he Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo

2024 has led to several partnerships, including one that will see a Guyana-born

Attorney-at-Law and her husband partnering with an international company to set

Kumasi President Ian Nicholson

Kumasi Director Loida John-Nicholson

up a US$10 million cassava processing plant.

The announcement was made on Tuesday of the partnership between Kumasi and Globaltec Dessarollos e Ingenieria SA, a company based in Madrid, Spain. It was revealed that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on the sidelines of the ongoing Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo.

According to Loida JohnNicholson, an Attorney turned Director on Kumasi’s Board, the partnership will see a US$10 million cassava processing plant set up. The project will also see the creation of approximately 100 jobs and opportunities for participating communities, though she declined to reveal the location of the project.

“We are pleased to announce we signed a Memo of Understanding with Globaltec Dessarollos. So, we’re in partnership with them for an innovative cassava processing plant in Guyana. The initiative reflects commitment to sustainable development, community empowerment, and environmental stewardship.

“The project aims to create over 100 jobs and empower Guyanese youth. It aligns with the national goals for economic diversification and supporting the local econo-

my. Globaltec specialises in turnkey projects, agricultural and agro-industrial sectors,” John-Nicholson said.

She noted that her company, Kumasi, was not restricted to agriculture but rather has an eye towards other opportunities as well.

According to the Attorney, the company also has investors who are interested in oil

tion. We see this as a unique opportunity to contribute to Guyana’s economic development and to foster a sense of unity and shared purpose across diverse backgrounds,” she said.

John-Nicholson, who will be supported by her husband and fellow Guyana-born Ian Nicholson, the President of Kumasi, meanwhile also revealed she is also pursuing her necessary Legal Education Certificate (LEC) to enable her to practise law in Guyana.

The new cassava plant is likely to align with Guyana’s and the Region’s ambitions to slash the food import bill by 25 per cent by 2025.

Guyana has taken the lead on this in the Region and at the 32nd Inter-Sessional Conference of the Caricom Heads of Government, a special ministerial task force was established and tasked with guiding the transformation of the regional agri-food

An example of a cassava processing facility

and gas, as well as other natural resources.

“With respect to agriculture, I’m a country girl. And so, this is in my blood. Even though I lived in Georgetown when I was growing up, my father believed that agriculture is the single most important thing if you want to be able to be not only monetarily free, but create monetary opportunities.

“Our involvement in this project is a testament to our belief in the power of diversity, collaboration and innova-

system towards full commercialisation. A prime focus was to address the rising food import bill and to stimulate investment in agriculture and food production.

The Agriculture Ministry was allocated $97.6 billion in Budget 2024 for the advancement of the industry. The largest portion of the agriculture budget, totalling $72.3 billion, is earmarked for drainage and irrigation works, acquisition of 40 mobile pumps, and $6 billion to bolster the sugar industry, specifically targeting improvements in the production and operational efficiency of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo).

Additionally, of the $97.6 billion budgeted for the agriculture sector, $1.3 billion would be expended by the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) to support increased production and productivity in the rice industry.

In terms of other crops, cultivation of corn, soya bean, citrus, spices, coconuts, and high-value crops such as broccoli, cauliflowers, bell peppers, romaine lettuce, and carrots would be expanded. In 2024, Government would continue to accelerate coconut production by investing in 39,000 high-yielding seed nuts as 500 additional farmers are targeted. (G3)

NEWS

Ramsammy’s Ruminations “No work, no pay” – teachers must demand promised strike relief from GTU now

15

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Gas-to-Energy Project

Citizens could benefit from 50% reduction in GPL rates by mid-2025 – Brassington

T

he GTU has filed court papers to force the Government to not deduct striking teachers’ pay and to force Government to act as the union’s agent by deducting union dues from teachers.

Both in Guyana and around the world, judicial precedents have established the principle of “No work, No pay”.

Before the court filing, the union insisted that it was not Dr Leslie Ramsammy worried the Government will no longer act as the union’s agent to deduct union dues, because it will collect them via MMG. It did not tell the teachers that in Guyana the matter of Government acting as the union’s agents has been previously determined by both the High Court and the Court of Appeal which both ruled that the Government is only a voluntary agent and can legally refuse to do so. It did not tell the teachers that the decision by courts in Guyana are consistent with the rulings in other parts of the world.

This same union told teachers when it called them out that they will be paid because the union has “corporate” sponsors.

It did not tell the teachers, nor has it told the nation, who these sponsors are. The law stipulates that a strike relief account must be established through which strike relief is provided. The GTU has not done so. Into the third week of the strike, teachers are not aware of any relief to be provided by the union. Instead, teachers are being told now that the court will order Government to pay them.

There is a credibility issue with GTU. It has blatantly lied to the teachers. Unless it comes forward with evidence of the corporate sponsors, then it was always a lie. Three weeks into the strike, there is no evidence that any such corporate sponsors exist. It told the teachers that the union dues are not an issue because the teachers will pay up their fees directly to the union, why then ask the court to overturn decisions it has made in the past?

The GTU did not tell teachers that it was meeting with the Ministry of Education, most recently on January 31, and that it presented over 40 issues to be included on the agenda for discussions and that 27 of those issues were either resolved or largely resolved. It did not tell the teachers or the nation that it agreed to meet every third Wednesday of the month to continue discussions with the Ministry of Education and that the next meeting was scheduled for February 21. Instead, it called out teachers on strike two weeks prior to the meeting.

It is a credibility issue. The credibility issue is heightened by revelations of misconduct and malfeasance involved in the utilisation of union dues. The GTU, which has collected more than $2 billion since 1989 when they last submitted accounts for audit by the Auditor General, is asking teachers to make sacrifices for the union, even if it means not being able to pay their mortgages and car loans and risk losing their homes and cars. For a union which cannot account to its members how it has spent more than $2 billion, it is remarkable that it can so brazenly ask its members to risk losing homes, cars and other properties.

Teachers have a right to strike. All workers in Guyana has that right. Whether we all agree that this was a good time for teachers to strike or not is a question open to debate. There will be significant numbers of persons on both sides of the debate. But for those who defend the unaccountability of the union, we must be consistent. It is a fact that the GTU has not submitted accounts for audit since 1989. The AG is the only authorised auditor for those accounts. The GTU now has an opportunity since it insists it had accounts audited annually by private persons to submit those audited accounts to the AG. The GTU has also failed to submit to the Registrar of Trade Unions financial accounts since 2005. If accounts have been audited and if accounts have been presented at the Annual General Meeting of the union, then the GTU has an obligation to submit those immediately to the Registrar of Trade Unions and to the Auditor General. The union must not think it can just make a blanket statement and people must believe them. It has no credibility even among its members.

The union has flouted its own rules in myriads of ways. In the case of MP Coretta McDonald, who qualifies only as an associate member, given she is both a teacher and an MP, she is not eligible for a position on the executive of the GTU. Because I am a dual citizen, I could not serve as a Minister, even if the President wanted to appoint me. In accordance with the ruling of the courts after the No-Confidence Motion of December 21, 2018, political parties had to be compliant with the Constitution that prohibits dual citizens from sitting in Parliament and, therefore, serving as Minister. No matter what other qualifications I might have had, I could not be considered for a ministerial appointment. Rules are rules and we must follow them. Rules can be changed, but until they are changed legally, we must adhere to those rules.

Teachers must take a step back and ask themselves why the GTU has not been upfront with them. Is the union driven by the interests of the teachers or is the union more interested in its political agenda? The fact is that the union is only interested in satisfying its political master. The teachers and the children are merely pawns in its machinations to earn credit with its political masters. Teachers must demand now evidence that meaningful strike relief is available for them.

The views expressed in this column are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Guyana Times’ editorial policy and stance

GtE Project Head Winston Brassington

W

ith the impending start-up of the Gasto-Energy (GtE) Project, consumers could be seeing a 50 per cent reduction in Guyana Power and Light (GPL) rates by mid2025. This is according to

An overhead view of part of the onshore facilities being developed for the Gas-to-Energy project

Winston Brassington, who is leading the project.

Brassington was at the time making a presentation on day two of the Guyana

Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo 2024.

According to him, the Gasto-Energy Project remains on track to have the major

components – the pipeline and transmission works – be completed by this year.

TURN TO PAGE 20

16

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

17

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

18 NEWS Dominican Republic Business Chamber launched in Guyana WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

…“best is yet to come” – Ambassador

F

ollowing a year of increasing ties between the two countries, the Dominican Republic Chamber of Commerce officially launched in Guyana on Tuesday, with Ambassador of the Dominican Republic to Guyana, Ernesto TorresPereyra, making it clear “the best is yet to come”.

The launching took place during day two of the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo 2024. It comes just days after a direct flight from the capital of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo, to Georgetown became operationalised.

Ambassador Torres compared the work done on setting up the chamber, to the building of a bridge with Guyana that would enable both countries to ramp up their business partnerships and foster

even closer ties than ever before.

“The Dominican Republic Chamber of Commerce has been, really, a key instrument for us in the diplomatic world we’re trying to develop, by generating a fantastic synergy. We have been able, also, to create a very good business arrangement on both sides and also, we have created a very earnest network.”

“And at the same time, so far, we have been able to establish a very functional line of communication between the businessmen and business communities from both countries, with the Government agencies,” the diplomat said.

Torres also made reference to the various developments between the two countries over the past year. In addition to the direct flight, there has been talk of a joint tour-

ism pact and even an oil refinery being built by Dominican Republic in Guyana.

“So, as you all know and as the master of ceremonies just referred to, in less than a year we’ve already had reciprocal visits of the President and in both occasions, they were accompanied by the largest business delegations during the whole tenure,” the Ambassador said.

“We’ve also signed over 10 really important cooperation agreements. We have already established a direct flight between Santo Domingo and Georgetown. And many, many other initiatives. And I must confess in most of them, the members of the Dominican Republic Chamber of Commerce have played a key role. So I can honestly say the best is yet to come.”

Also present at the

Dominican Republic Ambassador to Guyana, Ernesto Torres-Pereyra

Chamber’s launch in Guyana was Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest) Chief Executive Officer, Dr Peter Ramsaroop.

Guyana and the Dominican Republic have been making efforts to strengthen bilateral ties in recent years. Only last year, President Ali had signed several agreements with his Dominican Republic counterpart Luis Abinader during an official two-day visit to that country. These agreements included one for the joint establishment of an oil refinery in Guyana.

In the months leading up to the signing, ties between

Guyana and the Dominican Republic had grown closer as the leaders of the two countries met at various forums.

President Ali continued those bilateral efforts when he and First Lady Arya Ali arrived in the Dominican Republic for their visit along with a large delegation of Government officials and members of Guyana’s Private Sector.

As per the terms of the agreement, the DR will have 51 per cent ownership of the refinery. At present, the Government has gone out to tender for proposals to build a refinery in Berbice with a 30,000 barrels per day (bpd) capacity. Last month, it was revealed that four out of the 11 companies that had submitted proposals last year have been shortlisted.

When it comes to agriculture, it is understood that joint production of agricultural products such as corn and soybeans, as well as partnerships in the poultry sector, were discussed. According to President Ali, the agreements in agriculture between the two coun-

tries will ensure their prominence at the table whenever food security is discussed.

In June 2023, President Abinader had himself arrived in Guyana for a one-day visit where talks progressed about potential collaboration. Following bilateral talks between President Ali and President Abinader at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre in Greater Georgetown, senior Ministers from the two nations signed three pacts to strengthen collaboration, including a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation in energy-related matters.

This MoU established a framework to facilitate and enhance bilateral cooperation in the hydrocarbon sector of the two countries based on equality and mutual benefit. It included the promotion of investments in each other’s countries, as well as technology transfer, research and development, the building of human resources and collaboration in the natural gas sector. (G3)

NEWS

19

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Major drainage works to begin in south Georgetown communities V

ice President Bharrat Jagdeo, along with several Government Ministers, facilitated several public meetings in south Georgetown on Monday.

During his stop in West Ruimveldt Soldier Scheme community, VP Jagdeo detailed to residents the Government's plans to carry out major drainage works in 34 communities in South Georgetown.

During the community engagement with residents of West Ruimveldt Soldier

"I want to remind persons that we are committed to ensuring that the city and its citizens are comfortable," he said. "We are ready to fully fund training as well."

He further noted that, works are being done to the Liliendaal Pump Station to aid in better drainage flow, which would double the capacity of water flow.

Residents had brought up this as an issue for flooding in the area whenever it rains. "It would be good for residents to give us feed-

last month, the Government fulfilled a promise made to Laing Avenue residents, as 60 residents received $15 million in home improvement subsidies.

The Housing and Water Ministry and the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) disbursed $250,000 each in home improvement subsidies to 60 residents of Laing Avenue. In addition to the vouchers intended for repairs, modifications, and other house-related works, the residents were provid-

Residents at the public meeting with Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo in West Ruimveldt Soldier Scheme, Georgetown

be receiving their financial assistance on Tuesday, February 20 at the St Pius community ground.

Residents were encouraged to not just focus on cleaning contracts and cash grants alone since there are bigger issues to be ad-

Scheme, Vice President Jagdeo updated residents on the Government's development plans for Georgetown, which include, among other things, the upgrading of several community roads and footpaths, and the rehabilitation of 34 recreational facilities around the city.

back on the progress of works and how it is being carried out in the area and how the contractors are working," the VP urged.

Meanwhile, Housing Minister Colin Croal further assisted residents who had housing applications and had been waiting to receive their house lots. Just

ed with an extra $100,000 to assist with labour costs.

Minister Collin Croal stated that the housing programmes aimed to ensure citizens live comfortably as the Government continued to provide financial assistance. Minister Croal disclosed on Monday that another 60 persons would

dressed in these areas.

"The complication is the drainage in these areas, and that’s what we’re focused on," Jagdeo lamented.

The VP also urged those in attendance to take advantage of the GOAL schol-

arship programme and the part-time jobs initiative. While, more efforts are being made through the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) to encourage persons to take advantage of the continuous skills training programmes.

20 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Citizens could benefit from 50% reduction...

FROM PAGE 15

“The pipeline and transmission work will be completed this year. The power plant and the NGL (Natural Gas Liquid) plant, using single cycle, will be online by the first half of next year. We’re projecting by April.

“The culmination of all these projects, a little under $2 billion, will result in a 50 per cent reduction in GPL average tariffs, which we project can happen by mid next year,” Brassington further said.

This is even as the demand for energy in Guyana continues to grow. In fact, Brassington pointed out that based on GPL’s own projections, “by 2030, we will need almost 1000 megawatts of power to meet the constant-

ly increasing demand that we’re seeing.”

While the pipeline and transmission works are on schedule, Brassington admitted that when it came to the NGL plant, which is supposed to be a combined-cycle power plant, there could be some amount of delay in having this reach full capacity.

“We’re looking at about a four-month delay. Our independent engineer projects that this would be online by April of next year. Of course, we’re working on trying to do the best we can, but we have to be realistic. The NGL facility will come online with a single cycle, and the combined cycle will be online by the end of 2025,” Brassington said.

The scope of Guyana’s Gas-to-Energy project consists of the construction of 225 kilometres of pipeline from the Liza field in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, where Exxon and its partners are currently producing oil.

It features approximately 200 kilometres of a subsea pipeline offshore that will run from Liza Destiny and Liza Unity Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels in the Stabroek Block to the shore. Upon landing on the West Coast Demerara shore, the pipeline would continue for approximately 25 kilometres to the NGL Plant at Wales, West Bank Demerara.

In last year’s national budget, the project received a $43.3 billion allocation, in addition to the $24.6 billion injected into the start-up of the transformational project, for construction of the NGL Plant and the 300-megawatt (MW) combined cycle power plant at Wales. This year, a whopping $80 billion was budgeted to advance this project and its associated infrastructure, including transmission and distribution upgrades to offtake the power.

As of January, this year, the marine offloading facil-

ity has been completed, and 26 kilometres (km) of onshore pipelines have been installed. Once completed, the project will allow Guyanese to benefit from 50 per cent reduced electricity costs.

As it is now, the demand for electricity has been steadily rising. This year alone, the electricity demand is projected to peak at 236 megawatts; however, GPL can generate approximately 180 megawatts of power.

In 2020, the power demand was around 120 megawatts and this grew to 136 megawatts in 2021; 156 megawatts in 2022; and then peaked at 184 megawatts in 2023. Last year’s peak was recorded when all industrial customers were on the grid.

And with electricity costs slated to be significantly reduced in the coming years, there will be a significant surge in the demand for power in the near future, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo had previously outlined.

The cost for energy has long been cited as not only a major bugbear for residential customers, but a hindrance to the commercial customers and the manufacturing sector. Only recently, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) held a press conference where it noted the massive industrialisation and growth of the manufacturing sector that cheaper power would usher in. (G3)

NEWS

21

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

9 new Magistrates take oath of office N

ine new Magistrates took the oath of office to serve the people of Guyana and to tackle the backlog of cases at the level of magistracy on Wednesday morning in a simple but significant ceremony.

They took their oaths of office before the Prime Minister, Retired Brigadier Mark Phillips, who was in the presence of Chief Justice (ag) Roxanne George and Head of the Judicial Service Commission Retired Justice Carl Singh among others at the Office of the Prime Minister on Camp Street, Georgetown.

The nine Magistrates are Omadatt Chandan, Tameika Clarke, Abigail Gibbs, Tuanna Hardy, Shivani Lalaram, Michelle Mattias, Ravindra Mohabir, Teriq Mohammed, and Orinthia Schmidt.

During his remarks, Prime Minister Phillips

said, "Magistrates are integral to the functioning of the legal system, and their duties are diverse, ranging from presiding over court proceedings to making critical decisions that impact the lives of individuals and communities."

Prime Minister Phillips told the new Magistrates that their office was important to Guyana while urging them to be fair, efficient and effective in the execution of their duties.

“I wish to, first of all, advise that you must accord the highest priority to this portfolio which requires objectivity, neutrality; this is a portfolio that prohibits you from being influenced by any other consideration, other than by the evidence and the law before you,” the Prime Minister is quoted as saying in a Department of Public Information (DPI) report.

Prime Minister Phillips reminded that all were

The new Magistrates with Prime Minister, Retired Brigadier Mark Phillips on Thursday

equal in the eyes of the law. He was adamant that citizens must be accorded equal treatment in accordance with the law.

He also noted complaints from members of the public about the slothfulness of the legal system, with cases pending before the court for long periods.

He is hopeful that this new cohort of magistrates will help.

“While I recognise that the system is burdened, with a heavy caseload, I also recognise the truism in the old adage that all of us are accustomed to hearing that ‘justice delayed is justice denied’. I sincerely hope that this addition of nine newly-minted temporary Magistrates to the

complement of our magistracy will bring greater speed to the conclusion to the cases before our legal system,” PM Phillips stated.

He noted, too, that Government continues to work with the Judiciary by providing the requisite resources to ensure greater efficiency.

“There are no less than eight Magistrate courts that are under construction or renovation somewhere in Guyana; most of these courts are in locations that never had courts before. The new magistrate courts will be constructed as edifices that accommodate more than one court at a single location,” he said.

Also, an e-filing system will be launched in the magistracy to allow for the electronic filing of criminal charges and other proceedings to ensure greater dispatch and speed in the legal system.

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, SC; Chancellor (ag) of the Judiciary, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards; Chief Justice (ag) George, CCH, SC; former Chancellor, Retired Justice Carl Singh; Retired Appeal Court Judge BS Roy; Chief Magistrate (ag), Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus; Chairman of the Public Service Commission (PSC), Manniram Prashad; Registrar of the Supreme

Court, Sueanna Lovell; and, Attorney-at-Law and President of the Guyana Bar Association, Ronald Burch-Smith were also present at the ceremony.

On February 4, Guyana Times had reported that in an effort to fill the vacancies, the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has appointed nine acting Magistrates to help ease the burden and clear the backlog of cases within the magistracy.

Only recently, the Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister had disclosed that efforts were underway to have several Magistrates and Judges appointed to fill vacancies within the magistracy and Judiciary.

22

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024

guyanatimesgy.com

DAILY HOROSCOPES

ARCHIE

You’ll make gains if you are forward-thinking and ready to act. Let your instincts guide you while keeping your emotions in check. Look for solutions that are easy to initiate.

(March 21-April 19)

PICKLES (April 20-May 20)

(May 21-June 20)

Protect your reputation, position and home. Refuse to let anyone barge in and take control. Keep your life and plans simple, practical and within budget. Show discipline when temptation kicks in.

Live and learn. Let experience guide you. What you choose to do will make a statement that reveals if you are a target for scammers or a savvy intellect.

Personal growth and romance are favored.

Keep emotional spending to a minimum. You’ll have a more significant impact if you look for cost-effective options and suggestions that assist others in helping themselves. Branch out.

PEANUTS (June 21-July 22)

(July 23-Aug. 22)

Emotions will surface if you let the changes made by others affect your plans. Rise above what others do or say and push forward. Let your actions speak for you, and peace of mind will follow.

A change will spark your imagination and offer a different perspective. Don’t let outside interference lead to doubt.

Trust and believe in yourself and your ability to learn. Take responsibility.

CALVIN AND HOBBES (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

Protect your position and status.

Refuse to let poor behavior or lofty plans rob you of financial and emotional security. Stick close to home and nurture what’s important to you. Hone your skills.

Contemplate what you can achieve.

Wasting time on dead-end projects won’t satisfy your soul. A change is apparent, but first, put a plan in place and act.

Choose to be the master of your destiny.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22) Pay attention to detail, listen and observe, and refrain from changing course for the wrong reason. Evaluate your status and manage your expenses. You can’t buy love.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21) Show your appreciation by doing something nice for someone you love.

Don’t let change disrupt your vision or cost you physically or financially. You can accomplish great things.

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Keep tabs on what you spend and the promises you make. Refrain from revealing personal information. Don’t let the changes others make ruin your plans. Romance is in the stars.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Invest in yourself and your dreams.

Consider what’s trending and how to market what you can offer. Reconsider your goals and put a plan and timeline in place.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024

takes reins of GHE L

Local referees complete refresher workshop

…Motie also returns

eft-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie and wicketkeeper-batsman Tevin Imlach have joined the Guyana Harpy Eagles (GHE) for the third round of the West Indies Four-Day Championship, with spinners Steven Sankar and Richie Looknauth making way.

Imlach will also take over the role of captaincy from Kevlon Anderson. The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) made the announcement on Tuesday, adding that Anderson would now serve as Vice Captain, a role previously held by opener Matthew Nandu.

Harpy Eagles, defending champions of the tournament, take on West Indies Academy from today, Wednesday, February 21 at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua.

The return of the West Indies pair Motie and Imlach is a significant boost for the

F

Gudakesh Motie and Tevin Imlach

Harpy Eagles, who have had an inauspicious start to their title defence.

After three days of their opening round match against Trinidad and Tobago Red Force were rained out at the Conaree Sports Club in St Kitts, forcing a draw, the Harpy Eagles suffered a massive 273-run defeat at the hands of the Leeward Islands Hurricanes in round two at

Warner Park, St Kitts.

Guyana Harpy Eagles squad: Kevlon Anderson, Matthew Nandu, Veerasammy Permaul, Antony Adams, Kevin Sinclair, Isai Thorne, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Raymond Perez, Ronaldo Alimohamed, Gudakesh Motie, Kemol Savory, Tevin Imlach, and Neiland Cadogan. (Sportsmax)

ifteen registered referees took part in a oneday refresher course on February 17 to gear up for officiating a total of 90 games in Season Six of the Elite League scheduled to start on February 25.

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Refereeing Department training session was held at the Federation’s National Training Centre (NTC) in Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD), and attended by FIFA Assistant Referee Kleon Lindey, lone female FIFA Assistant Referee Denisha Isaacs, FIFA Referee

Stolen Money could steal the show at Jumbo Jet’s Mashramani horse race meet

F

23

resh from a win on New Year’s Day, the promising horse Stolen Money will be eyeing a second win in as many outings in Guyana, on Sunday, February 25 in the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Mashramani horse race, which will run off at Rising Sun Turf Club.

The owner of the big grey, Dennis Deoroop said his team of jockeys and grooms have some fine-tuning ahead of Sunday’s big event.

“We are up there; we have the horses where we want them. The horses are working fairly well, so we

have to fine-tune for Sunday.

“Stolen Money needs time to settle. The last time he raced, he came in a few days only before the race.

Now, I think he is a bit more settled, so he should show a little improvement based on the time he spent here and settled in,” Deoroop said.

Other top horses will be out for pole position, and Stolen Money will have to be on the money to cap off another win.

“We have a very big race.

All the top horses are actually racing. We expect a good feature event, and the others will be well supported in terms of entry,” Deoroop in-

Stolen Money will have to be on the money to cap off another win

Owner/trainer of Stolen Money, Dennis Deoroop

dicated.

Sharing his sentiments on the conditions expected at Rising Sun, Deoroop said: “The conditions at Rising Sun is excellent. The guys did a lot of work on the track and they are up-keeping the facilities. It is one of the premier race tracks in Guyana.

We expect a lot of good timings; the horses should do well at the Mashramani race.”

Initially, eight races were on the cards for the meet staged by the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee, but the hard-working organisers and promoters added one more race to the event.

Some $10 million will be up for grabs. The feature event,, running at a distance of 1600 metres, will be open to all imported and locally-bred horses. The top horse of the feature event will bag $2 million.

Additionally, the provisional programme includes the West Indian-bred fouryear-old and West Indianbred three-year-old horses running 1600m races, and the three-year-old Guyanabred non-winners of two races running at 1400m.

All the top horses and jockeys are expected to ignite the Rising Sun Turf Club at the Mashramani event.

Scenes from the referees’ refresher course

Shavin Greene and FIFA Futsal Referee Colin Abel.

Also at the course were referees Gladwyn Johnson, Micah Erskine, Anthony Adams, and assistant referees Clenton Daniel, Otis Williams, Safiya Goulding, Brandon Cyrus, Mitera Thomas, Patrick December, and Royden Ramsey. Along with invitees Miksha Crossman, Aliyah Antigua, Ebonie McNiel, and Aquiba Raynolds.

Conducted by assessors Ingram Johnson, Abdulla Hamid, Sherwin Moore, Tyrone Tyrrell, Natasha Lewis, Sherwin Johnson, Lenval Peart, and Colin Bowry, the training session comprised a theoretical classroom segment to update officials on law modifications and Elite League regulations and field sessions, as well as fitness conditioning.

Preparations are in full swing for the start of Season Six on February 25 featuring 10 of the country's top clubs – defending champions Guyana Defence Force, Western Tigers, Guyana Police Force, Fruta Conquerors, Den Amstel, Buxton United, Ann’s Grove, Santos, Monedderlust, and Slingerz.

Facilitator Hamid shared that the workshop was interactive, and that the majority of participants were up to date with the regulations.

He noted that the officials were prepared to officiate "at the highest level" throughout the 90 games scheduled for the upcoming season.

Games will be played at grounds in Georgetown, West Coast Demerara, East Bank Demerara and Berbice. Match days, predominantly featur-

ing double-headers, will be Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

The eagerly-awaited opening match is scheduled to occur at the NTC under recently-installed floodlights and on a renovated pitch.

Referee Erskine reassured that the referees were committed to delivering "our best possible standard, ensuring the game is played in accordance with FIFA laws and regulations".

The winning club will be awarded $2,000,000 in cash, with the second, third and fourth-place finishers receiving prizes of $1,200,000; $800,000 and $500,000, respectively.

The Elite League stands as the zenith of local senior men's competition, serving as a pathway for players to be identified for the national team programme, as well as by regional and international clubs.

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2024

Sport is no longer our game, it’s our business

Antigua and Barbuda Falcons unveiled as new CPL franchises

T

he newest franchise in the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has been launched. The Antigua and Barbuda Falcons were officially unveiled during a gala opening ceremony hosted by the franchise owners – WORLDWIDE Sports Management Group. Parimatch, the number one global gaming platform, will proudly serve as the title sponsor of the team.

The event was held on Tuesday evening at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, which will be the home of Antigua and Barbuda Falcons when they compete in the 2024 edition of the Republic Bank CPL – “the Biggest Party in Sport”.

Krishna (Kris) Persaud, Founder and President of WORLDWIDE Sports Management Group, was thrilled as he showcased the new team’s name and the colourful and dynamic logo for the first time to excited guests. Persaud also expressed delight in having the team officially on board for the regional event, which attracts soldout audiences for matches.

Persaud said: “We are brand new; we are

T

he Guyana Football Federation (GFF) National Training Centre (NTC) pitch has undergone upgrades and testing over the past few months in preparation for Season Six of the Elite League set to kick off on February 25 at the Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) facility.

The synthetic turf received a makeover from the Netherlands-based specialist company Greenfields with funds provided by FIFA to guarantee ideal playing conditions for the 10 Elite League clubs.

Complementing the recently-installed FIFAapproved floodlights, the entrance platform of the pitch received a comprehensive refurbishment, repairs were meticulously executed on the pitch's seams and lines, and new ball catcher nets were installed.

GFF President Wayne

here, we are ready … let’s get ready to play!

The Antigua and Barbuda Falcons will bring a unique energy and vitality to the Republic Bank CPL. We are ready to fly high and conquer what is before us. We want to establish a winner’s culture within the team and also a culture of winning and success off the field – among every individual associated with this franchise and the amazing fans we will have at our special home base at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in lovely Antigua.”

Persaud added: “What you are witnessing today as we unveil the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons is something truly special and I want to thank the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, who have worked closely with us to bring the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons to life.

Antigua is our home … this country has a rich cricket history, and the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons will create more great history on these shores. It is now time for the Falcons to fly high!”

Details on the overall structure of the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons and the coaching and management staff for the team will be announced at a later date.

The 2024 Republic Bank CPL will take place from August 28 to October 6 with

Forde said he was delighted to see the Elite League's return to the NTC. “Over the past few months, considerable efforts and funds have been invested in enhancing the facility to elevate both player and fan experiences. We are fully prepared for what promises to be a successful Season Six,” he added.

The enhancements were finalised on January 24, accompanied by training for the local maintenance team on proper procedures, along with the provision of a maintenance manual.

Elite League Season Six will feature defending champions Guyana Defence Force, Western Tigers, Guyana Police Force, Fruta Conquerors, Den Amstel, Buxton United, Ann’s Grove, Santos, Monedderlust and Slingerz. A total of 90 games will be played at the GFF NTC, Providence and Number Five Ground in Berbice.

games taking place in Antigua for the first time in 10 years. The final will once again take place in Guyana at the National Stadium at Providence. The tournament also plans to have matches in Barbados, Guyana, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago. Once again, the window for the CPL will not clash with West Indies fixtures, so the best Caribbean talent will be on show at “the Biggest Party in Sport”.

Jeff Miller, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and General Manager of the fran-

chise, said: “Welcome back Antigua and Barbuda! This is where the ‘party’ in cricket started, and we are delighted to be back for this exciting event. We plan to have a full house for every match with our Antigua and Barbuda Falcons on show. This is what we have been waiting for. It will be amazing to see the Sir Vivian Richard Stadium packed and our lovely super fans enjoying the action and the atmosphere, as well as seeing great cricket on the field, the non-stop party in the stands, and all the festivities that come with cricket in the West Indies.” (CPLT20)

The Antigua and Barbuda Falcons will replace the Jamaica Tallawahs

A look at some of the upgrades done at the GFF’s National Training Centre

Match days, predominantly featuring double-headers, will be Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

The champions will be awarded $2,000,000 in cash, with the second-, third- and fourth- place finishers receiving prizes of $1,200,000; $800,000 and $500,000, respectively.

Under Forde's guidance, significant investments have been made in advancing club football across Guyana.

The League is the pinnacle of the local senior men's competition. It is a pathway for players to be scouted for the national team programme, as well as by regional and international clubs.

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