Guyana Times - Wednesday, May 01, 2024.pdf

...reaffirms as economy

$4.1B money laundering case against father, son discharged Port Kaituma businessman charged for illegally purchasing gold

31 Banks DIH customers graduate from “Growing Together” initiative GNBS seizes over 1400 packs of cigarettes in Regs 5 & 6

Berbice hot dog vendor robbed at gunpoint

President Dr Irfaan Ali met with a delegation from the Guiana Shield Strategic Dialogue Conference at the Office of the President on Tuesday. The visiting team included Suriname’s Minister of Defence Krishnakoemarie Mathoera and French Ambassador to Guyana, Nicolas De Lacoste

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Wednesday, May 1 – 10:00h-11:30h and 23:30h-01:00h and Thursday, May 2 – no retraction.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Wednesday, May 1 –09:45h-11:15h and Thursday, May 2 – 11:20h-12:50h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery to light rain showers are expected until the early-afternoon effort, followed by sunshine. Clear to partly-cloudy skies are expected at night. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 2.23 metres and 4.92 metres.

High Tide: 10:00h and 23:04h reaching maximum heights of 2.22 metres and 2.14 metres.

Low Tide: 16:20h reaching a minimum height of 0.96 metre.

Labour Day 2024

... reaffirms as economy expands, workers will share in growing prosperity

On the occasion of Labour Day 2024, President Dr Irfaan Ali revealed that more than 23 per cent in acrossthe-board salary increases have been paid out to public servants since 2020, just one demonstration of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic Government’s commitment to workers.

In his Labour Day message, President Ali urged workers to look beyond the monetary benefits the government has been providing while noting that in many ways, the government has created non-salary benefits for public servants.

“My government is deeply rooted in the working class. We remain committed to defending the rights of workers and enhancing their well-being and welfare. We recognise that the improvement of living and working conditions is fundamental to economic prosperity and social justice.”

“However, it is crucial to also appreciate that the well-being of workers extends beyond their pay packages. The well-being of workers involves respecting their dignity and their work. True dignity for workers encompasses access to quality education, healthcare, affordable housing, retirement benefits, and social protections for the vulnerable among us,” the President said.

According to President Ali, the benefits the government has been providing to the workers, have collectively put billions of dollars in disposable income back into their hands. This is particularly the case with the across-the-board salary increases it has paid to public servants.

President Ali further added that the government “created more than 50,000 new jobs; paid cumulative across-the-board salary increases of more than 23% to public servants; adjusted salaries upwards for 5000 healthcare workers and 9000 members of the Disciplined Services; increased allowances and duty-free concessions and corrected anomalies in the wages and salaries of teachers and increased the monthly income tax threshold to G$100,000.”

Other initiatives taken by the government include increased allocations to the education sector, expanded school feeding programme, and provision of more than 21,000 scholarships under the Guyana Academy of Online Learning, of which 20% have gone to teachers.

They have also distributed more than 30,000

house lots and initiated a part-time jobs programme that is placing income into the hands of 15,000 workers. These measures, the

President noted, are aimed at empowering workers, enhancing the well-being of their families and contributing to the flourishing of

our nation.

“On this May Day 2024, I wish to reaffirm my government’s solidarity with workers. I reiterate our commitment to placing their well-being at the forefront of our national agenda. We have your back! As our economy expands and improves, workers will share in our growing prosperity.

“Together, let us chart a path towards greater progress, mindful of the lessons of the past where irresponsible stewardship led to a deterioration of the conditions and the pauperisation of the working class.”

TURN TO PAGE 7

President Dr Irfaan Ali

Editor: Tusika Martin

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

Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707

Mailing address: Queens

Atlantic Industrial Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown

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

Labour Day: Confrontational approach must

be moderated

As we commemorate another Labour Day, all of us –not just members of the trade unions – need to reflect on what exactly is the point behind the rallies and the marches by the workers decked out in red and white. It has often been the case that, after performing an activity for a number of years, we begin to repeat it reflexively, out of sheer habit, with no real consciousness of what the action was originally intended to achieve. One may discover that, with the passage of time and changes in circumstances, the event has become passé and, indeed, irrelevant. Then, again, it may be even more necessary, and needs intensification.

It may be useful in pointing out that almost all of our people, save for the Indigenous Peoples, were brought here as labourers. The ruling Europeans that exploited their labour on the plantations were never more than a comparative handful. In a sense, therefore, we are all affiliated with labour. None of us would deny the harsh – indeed inhumane – conditions under which the early labourers toiled, and would not be surprised that our history is in essence a timeline punctuated with periodic violent outbursts against the immanent abuse.

The quotidian sullen antagonism merely served as a backdrop.

While one would not want to equate the conditions under which our forebears laboured and those in the colonial “mother” country, the former were not exactly a bed of roses. By the middle of the 19th century, trade unions had been formed in Britain to agitate for better working conditions; and, by 1871, they were granted official recognition. It is to the credit of our forebears that, not long after, they followed suit here. We can be proud that Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow formed the very first officially recognised trade union in the entire British Commonwealth right here in Guyana in 1919. It does not take away anything from his achievement to note that he was assisted by the British trade unionists.

And just as the latter group had discovered that they needed direct access to the legislative system, so that their demands could be enshrined in the statutes of the land, and formed the Labour Party, so, too, did our local agitators. So, our trade union movement gave birth to our modern political movements – both Jagan and Burnham were members and leaders of unions – that demanded much more radical changes in the status quo of working conditions than had the older, traditional reformist politicians.

But out of this early (and entirely appropriate) radical beginning, some trade unions have, to a large degree, retained the confrontational and agitational style that characterised their early modus operandi, but in the services of political, rather than labour interests. The question that we implicitly posed in the beginning is whether such a style is appropriate in the world we have now found ourselves? We posit that, because of local and global reasons, it is inappropriate. Locally, there will be an inevitable recalibration of our economy to deal with the diversification funded by oil revenues. Globalisation has created a scenario in which capital and investments are almost seamlessly fungible, and will flow to countries that create the least disruption in operation.

This is not to imply that unions have to abandon working for improvement in workers’ benefits and wages. But this work has to modify the rhetoric and reality of war: “struggle”, “fight”, “shut-down” etc. especially when solely political agendas are being pushed. In this globalised world, labour will have to conceive of their role as partners with the managers of companies to literally deliver the goods as efficiently as possible. We cannot cut our noses to spoil our faces.

Just as riots became irrelevant after not simply the legalisation of trade unions, but the official acceptance of workers’ right to a living wage, the confrontational approach must be moderated, because unions should now understand that even that living wage can disappear overnight if they do not factor in global conditions when making local demands.

Guyana’s Constitution and laws are written to ensure equality and fairness

Dear Editor, Guyana has been independent for nigh on 58 years, and for the first 28 of those, it was administered by the Afro-leaning PNC; so, what opportunity for the advancement of people of African descent was missed?

Further, our first five years of the ‘oil’ era were administered by the APNU+AFC (PNC by another name). What policy or law change was required for Afro-Guyanese to advance?

The short answer to both these questions is that Guyana’s Constitution and Laws are written to ensure equality and fairness as we build our nation; they do not, however, cater to the whims of those who see everything as an issue of ‘race’.

Vincent Alexander

writes that his organization (it was created by David Granger, with Alexander named as head; there was no election)IDPADA-G is being starved of funding; ergo, Afro-Guyanese are being deprived of equal funding as other races. To prove his point, Alexander says, “This acclaimed $100 million per year, and $500 million all told to date, is a pittance and disrespectful, given $9 billion annually for the Amerindians, $7 billion for activities in agriculture and the promotion of manufacturing, all of which are populated essentially by Indo-Guyanese”. This attempt at equivocation deserves to be called out for what it is: Racism at its worst, so let us analyze it.

IDPADA-G is a private organization, it exists only because President David

Granger wanted it to. No other Caribbean nation saw fit to set up a local cash cow outside of the Government structure to assist people of African descent to advance. It does not equate, and cannot be equated, with the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs; which is an integral part of our nation’s governance structure, that delivers government services to hundreds of indigenous villages in our hinterland.

The same applies to the Ministry of Agriculture.

Is Vincent Alexander suggesting his organization should be treated as a Ministry, and he as a minister, with no accountability? One can ask by what mechanism did IDPADA-G rent the premises from Mr. Charles Corbin to use as its headquarters? Was there a transparent tender process?

What sum is being paid for the building monthly?

I am sure we will be ignored, the same as when the organizations that were supposed to comprise IDPADA-G met in 2018 and voted by a clear majority to remove Vincent Alexander from the organization; he never acknowledged their meeting or legitimacy.

To claim that agriculture and manufacturing activities are “populated essentially by Indo-Guyanese” is uninformed and ignorant. There are thousands of Afro-Guyanese engaged in both activities, and it is akin to saying the Public Service is ‘Afro-Guyanese’ because they enjoy a majority in Government employment, or the police or the army.

Indentured labour

Ravi Dev foR inDian HeRitage MontH 2024

While today is “Labour Day”, and also the beginning of Indian Heritage Month, it is sometimes forgotten that when men and women provide their labour, their bodies are inevitably deployed even when the labour was mental. As such labour always poses questions of ethics and morality in the relationship between those who labour and those who use the labour. The earliest relationship came out of conquests when the conquered were enslaved and became property (chattel) of the conquerors, forced to provide their labour on pain of death. In Europe, slavery evolved into “serfdom” where the serfs were bound to the land but had a modicum of freedom.

After the European discovery of the “New World”, this created a demand for labour in mining and agriculture that was performed by enslaving the native peoples. The British, introduced the institution of “indentured labour” in the 17th century where persons agreed to exchange their labour for the cost of their passage to their American colonies or the West Indian islands like Barbados plus their food, housing and clothing for five to seven years and then they would be given a plot of land on which they could be free to make their living. The agreement would be written and signed twice on a piece of paper that would be torn in two, thus forming indentations –hence “indenture contract” - and each party would keep a part that could be fitted together at the end of the indentureship agreement in exchange for their land.

Gradually, they were replaced by enslaved Africans with whom they worked alongside for a while. So it is rather ironic that when African slavery was abolished in the British colonies, the system of indentureship was reintroduced because the planters believed the freed Africans would not work in the regimented manner that sugar production demanded. As early as 1806, the year before the slave trade was abolished, and 32 years before the abolition of slavery, there was an indenture experiment with 192 Chinese introduced in Trinidad. It failed but highlighted to the planters what was necessary for a successful system.

With slavery slated to end in 1838 after a four-year period of “apprenticeship”, they started by introducing Portuguese in 1835 from the island of Maderia that was experiencing a famine. Between 1835-1882, 31,628 indentured Portuguese from Madeira, the Azores and Cape Verde Islands arrived. They also tried small numbers of English, Irish, Scots, Germans and Maltese all on two to four-year indentured contracts but apart from the Portuguese, they all proved unsuitable because of the high mortality rate. While the Portuguese also died in droves, conditions in Maderia forced them to continue coming, but they quickly left the plantations after their apprenticeship to enter business.

By now it is trite knowledge that Indian indentured labourers were brought from – obviously – India after the first experiment of 1838 by John Gladstone to his plantation at Vreed-enHoop along with the Davson plantations at Highbury in East Bank Berbice and Waterloo in West Coast Berbice. Eventually 239,909 arrived. Chinese indentured were first brought in 1853 with most going to Windsor Forest and Pouderoyen. Between 1853 and 1879 a total of 13,541 Chinese arrived.

But what is not-so-trite knowledge is that there were significant numbers of indentured Africans arriving primarily from Barbados and some small islands (40,783 from 1835) and so-called “Liberated Africans” from Africa (13,355 from 18381865) compared to the 82,000 local enslaved Africans who had been freed in 1838.

The neverending saga of street vending in Georgetown

Dear Editor,

There is a court order, or mandamus, demanding the removal of vendors and their belongings from the pavement and environs of the city business place Demico House. This was successfully executed by the Mayor of Georgetown on Monday of this week.

Now, this is not the first time that we have witnessed this exercise being conducted by the City, nor is it the first time the City Council has been called upon to enforce an order of the court. Monday's exercise is all in the continuing drama between established business and (what we usually call) small-scale hustlers. These are age-old, brawl-type episodes have been played out at regular intervals in Georgetown.

You would recall earlier rulings by the court which effectively saw the removal of vendors from the Muneshwers pavement. This was not an amicable separation, but one that was marked by raucous, ghetto-style evictions. While all of this is going on, other businesses are contemplating going that very same route to rid their pavements of the nuisance of streetside vending.

The forceful removal of pavement vendors is a never-ending nightmare that never seems to go away, because pretty soon those vendors would come trickling back one by one to the very same location, and the vicious cycle keeps repeating itself over and over again.

The reason for this occurrence is that the City Council does not have any real plans for the displaced vendors. With no futuristic goals for the City, we see more of these ad hoc measures being taken, which in turn leads us to nowhere.

Georgetown is a reflection of a backward-thinking municipality that has long outlived its usefulness.

Soon the accusing finger will be pointed at the Government and the business owners themselves, as the Mayor exculpates himself from blame. He will not stop to think that the deteriorating state of the City is due to their gross negligence and inherent corrupt practices, but he will continue to peddle the narrative of Government and big business being the root

Guyana’s Constitution and laws are...

cause of the City's problems.

Soon, Opposition forces and politically-aligned lackeys will take up the mantle and shout discrimination and race, and class and politics will take centre stage. Mention of some of the epithets coming from the displaced vendors and their sympathizers, "Deh putting we out because deh don't like black people," "De coolie man done deh pon tap; now look, we can't even earn a living. Black man done, bai; we finish."

Now, it would be remiss of me to highlight the problem without putting forward viable solutions. A viable alternative readily avails itself in the City approaching the Government to construct a new market befitting modern-day society. I am speaking of a representative structure spanning the entire block from the old Co-operative Bank at Cornhill Street to Stabroek Market itself.

Build a mega-market, so that vendors can ply their trade with dignity. It is a heartless thing to displace street vendors when you haven't got a suitable replacement area for them to do their vending. It doesn't work that way. Proper vending structures should be set up to meet the expanding retail trade. These should be commercial units established in the City, adapted to modern conditions and usage.

The outdated, disorganized bus terminals and high traffic congestion that obtains would be done away with.

Another option that should be explored is creating a commercial vending area at Durban Park. This location would serve the dual role of decentralized marketing and solving the nagging problem of traffic congestion.

Finally, to solve the problem of street vending, the City Council must join hands with Local Government to build a modern marketing complex fitting a capital city space. This can only be achieved when the Council puts away its empty political self-centredness and focus on the larger good of serving our country.

Respectfully,

Neil Adams

Guyanese choose where they want to work, and what profession to pursue. Some swing in office chairs and fiddle with air-conditioning remotes, while others toil in the fields; but both do it by choice; both have pros and cons, yet no Indo-Guyanese has ever said that the money spent on the 54,000 public servants is to benefit AfroGuyanese only, and if they did, we would call out that false statement as blatant racism without fail.

Alexander’s letter, however, did shine some light on why there was no hesitation by the APNU+AFC to shut down the sugar industry and fire 7000 workers, and why the Community Service Officer programme was terminated and 2000 CSOs fired; one was perceived as “Indo”, the other as “Indigenous”. These two decisions were driven by a racist agenda by a racist administration. This is

what real discrimination looks like; a shame and a stain on APNU+AFC.

Editor, one does not need an organization and millions or billions to advance the cause of any group of people in Guyana, one only needs honesty of purpose and facts; nothing prevents anyone from filing complaints to the Ethnic Relations Committee or any other Government agency. To demonstrate how this can be done, I have set up a Facebook page (https://www.facebook. com/DevelopGuyanaFirst) and invite any Guyanese of any ethnicity, who feels they have been discriminated against, to message me and help will be forthcoming at no charge or cost. Genuine activism is motivated by care, not money.

Sincerely, Robin Singh

Page Foundation

Module test 4

Complete the following test items

1) Calculate

a) 0.25 of 80%

b) 60% of 0.9

c) 16.4% of 50

2) What is the perimeter and area of the figure below:

In this fun and easy rocket science and space science experiment for kids, we’re going to explore revolution versus rotation.

Materials:

Practice ball

Pipe cleaner

Instructions:

Thread a plastic ball on a pipe cleaner. Tie the pipe cleaner closed by twist-

3) One inch is equivalent to 2.54 centimetres. How many inches is 5 metres? How many centimetres are in 508 inches?

4) Calculate

a) 12.25 + 71.58

b) 1.90 + 33.60

c) 0.33 + 19.67

5) Solve the problems using the Venn Diagram

ing the ends together to create a loop.

To demonstrate revolution, slide the ball around the pipe cleaner.

To demonstrate rotation, spin the ball.

How it works:

This simple and easy experiment illustrates the important difference between the terms rotation and revolution. Rotation is when an object spins on its own axis. When the Earth com-

pletes a full rotation by spinning on its own axis, a full 24-hour day has passed. Revolution refers to when an object moves around another object. The Earth revolves around the Sun. One full revolution of the Earth around the Sun is 365 days, which is one year.

Make this a science project: Identify things that rotate. Identify things that revolve around other things. (sciencefun.org)

A snail and a slug had a race, But they moved at such a sluggish pace. They went on for hours and hours, And finally, they both took a nap in the flowers!

Exxon’s oil spill insurance guarantee not limited to US$2B – Routledge

... capping stack purchased, to be delivered to Guyana soon

While ExxonMobil Guyana has agreed with the government to provide a US$2 billion insurance guarantee in the event of an oil spill, the company’s President, Alistair Routledge, has made it clear that it is not limited by that figure.

During a press conference on Tuesday, Routledge was questioned about Exxon’s obligations in the event of an oil spill. While the company has lodged a US$2 billion insurance guarantee with the authorities, Routledge clarified that they are not limited by this.

“We’re not limited by any particular number. We’re not limited by a guarantee. But it is a guarantee that is based upon a good deal of technical work that has been done,” the oil executive said.

“We said we’ll take care of the obligations that we have, should such an incident happen. So, first of all, make sure it doesn’t happen, that’s a priority. If something should happen, then it's all about mitigating that so there’s a minimum impact possible. And then we would take care of whatever needed to be taken care of. We made that

commitment clear.”

Providing further assurances, Routledge pointed out that when one looks at the assets of the Stabroek Block partners, there is more than enough money to take care of any oil spill.

Exxon’s Stabroek Block partners comprise of CNOOC and Hess Corporation, who recently agreed to sell their stake in the block to Chevron.

That sale is before an arbitration panel.

Meanwhile, Routledge also revealed that the company has purchased a capping stack, an integral piece of equipment for stopping well blowouts and mitigating spills. This, according to Routledge, will be a further assurance of Exxon’s seriousness about protecting the environment.

It is also in keeping with the permit for Exxon’s fourth development, Yellowtail, which requires Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) to procure a capping stack to be maintained, tested and stored in Guyana, ensuring that operators are in a state of readiness to cap any well in the event of a disaster.

“You will recall that as

part of the Yellowtail project, we committed to invest in what’s called a capping stack. So, this is the technology that we already have access to. With multiple of these capping stacks around the world, we can mobilise them within days to get to Guyana, should there ever be an issue with good control.”

“We did commit to purchase one. That will be arriving in Guyana in the next few weeks. A lot of people may have googled and looked up pictures and have an idea of what it looks like. But we’ll have it onshore here in Guyana and we’ll provide an opportunity for some people to come around and see one firsthand.”

The Yellowtail Development Project is set to commence production in 2025 using the “One Guyana” Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel, which will yield the largest target of 250,000 barrels of oil per day (bpd) during a 20-year period that will generate at least 1300 direct jobs.

Yellowtail, which will be located 126 miles offshore Guyana, includes up to three drill ships drilling up to 67 wells, the FPSO vessel and

the SURF production system, with tankers taking the oil to global markets. The US$10 billion development project will target an estimated resource base of about 900 million oil-equivalent barrels and would be the largest single investment in the history of Guyana’s petroleum sector.

Following a 2023 court ruling, Exxon lodged a US$2 billion affiliate insurance guarantee with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The High Court had ruled that ExxonMobil must provide unlimited insurance for its offshore oil operations in the Stabroek Block.

Both the EPA and Exxon have since appealed this decision and it is now before the Court of Appeal. Additionally, the state has moved to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) to be added as a party. Last year, Routledge had made it clear that Exxon had set up a “long line of defences” to prevent oil spills from occurring. These include applying new technologies to the design of the wells, training personnel, and implementing strict safety practices.

GRA’s false declarations scandal ExxonMobil cuts ties with brokers, taking steps to avoid reoccurrence

–says yet to be served with court summons

Days after reports emerged that the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) had flagged false declarations on oil well equipment imported on behalf of ExxonMobil, the oil giant has said that it has cleared up the discrepancies, cut ties with the broker and improved their internal systems.

A few days ago, it was reported that the GRA had flagged false declarations made by a Trinidadian logistics company that acted as the broker on oil well equipment imported for ExxonMobil. The report indicated that the company submitting the declaration, listed US$4.4 million worth of oil well equipment, as US$12.1 billion.

During a press conference at their headquarters on Tuesday, ExxonMobil Guyana President Alistair Routledge was asked about this. According to him, steps have already been taken to clear up the discrepancy.

“It was corrected for the customs. And they’ve received that. The GRA has the correct number. Everything was caught early and there were no issues. Nobody suffered any loss. Everything was taken care of. And as I said, we’ve updated our procedures and the checks that are made to make sure this sort of error is not repeated.”

Asked whether any court matter has been filed against ExxonMobil, Routledge noted that the company is yet to

receive any summons. He further detailed the corrective measures the company has taken and also revealed that they have changed brokers in the wake of the controversy.

“We have not received any court summons or documents. We are always committed to working ethically, and correctly and making sure all our submissions, be they for tax purposes or cost recovery, are accurate. We actually do what we call a business practices review, every two years, with all our employees.

“If there is something that there shouldn’t have been, then we will learn from that. We’ve already revisited the procedures around those submissions. As you may also be aware, the company that is supporting us for those customs duties has changed. So, we don’t anticipate that kind of issue happening again. But we’ll learn and make sure we put in place everything we can to not have errors.”

Routledge explained that their business practices review ensures that employees understand the company’s expectations around reporting accurately, doing business correctly and avoiding conflicts of interest with the business interest. According to the executive, very clear expectations are set in these reviews.

Meanwhile, Routledge clarified that the import duties ExxonMobil pays do not go directly into cost recovery. Rather, it is the equipment it-

self that is considered part of expenses by the company.

“What happens for duty submissions to the GRA, those numbers do not directly go into what we state in the cost recovery. Part of the many mechanisms we have around paying invoices or submitting custom duties.”

“There are millions of transactions that take place every year in our business. The equipment being imported would be part of the expenses, but that number, you wouldn’t find that erroneous number in the expenses,” Routledge added.

While reports had alluded to the controversy as a false declaration, Exxon has maintained that it was a typographical error that caused the worth of the equipment to be overstated in November of last year. In response to a March 18 letter from GRA asking it to show cause why proceedings should not be instituted against it, Exxon had also committed to working along with GRA to address any further concerns on the matter.

ExxonMobil, through its local subsidiary Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), has a majority 45 per cent interest in the Stabroek Block, and is the operator; while Hess Corporation holds a 30 per cent interest, and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CNOOC Limited, holds the re-

maining 25 per cent interest.

ExxonMobil, along with its co-venturers, commenced production activities in the

Stabroek Block in December 2019. Currently, production has been ramped up to over 600,000 barrels of oil per day

at the Liza Phases One and Two, as well as the Payara projects, all of which account for the three floating, production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessels operating in Guyana’s waters offshore. The current production figures will be further buttressed by the Yellowtail and Uaru developments, which are already underway and are anticipated to contribute 250,000 barrels of oil each following their respective start-ups in 2025 and 2026. Additionally, Whiptail, which was only recently approved, will further contribute to these production numbers when it gets underway in 2027.

More than 23% in across...

The President pointed out that May Day or Workers’ Day celebrates the invaluable and indispensable contributions of workers to the advancement of the common good. According to him, it is a day when the nation recognises and appreciates the pivotal role that workers play in shaping our societies, driving progress, and fostering solidarity.

“It is through the collective efforts of workers that societies flourish and prosper. Work is not merely a means of earning a livelihood, it is an essential aspect of human

existence. Through work, individuals can realise their potential, provide for themselves and their families, contribute to the advancement of human progress, eradicate poverty, and preserve human dignity.”

“As a government, we are seised by the realisation that it is incumbent upon us to ensure that workers are afforded opportunities for personal and professional growth, as well as the means to lead fulfilling lives. My government is dedicated uncompromisingly to this mission.”

President Ali noted that the PPP/C is expanding eco-

nomic opportunities, creating sustainable jobs, improving education and healthcare systems, facilitating access to housing, and enhancing social protections for all citizens. He went on to urge workers to consider the broader benefits being afforded to them and their families, “beyond mere financial compensation.”

“On this Workers’ Day, let us march forward, handin-hand, shoulder-to-shoulder, towards an era of shared prosperity, where our workers are the primary beneficiaries. Solidarity forever! Long live the working class!” the President added.

EEPGL President Alistair Routledge

An example of a capping stack

Salutation

$4.1B money laundering case against father, son discharged

Money laundering charges against Kenneth Kellawan Ramnarine and his son, Damian Brandon Ramnarine were dismissed by Magistrate Rhondel Weaver after she upheld a no-case submission on Tuesday.

The father and son of Somerset Court, Herstelling, East Bank Demerara (EBD) were slapped with 268 counts of money laundering amounting to over $4.1 billion. The duo was represented by Attorney, Bernard DaSilva.

Kenneth Kellawan Ramnarine, a taxi driver along with his son Damian, a salesman; and Kenneth’s reputed wife Yevette Nalini Saroop, a businesswoman, were initially arraigned on February 9, 2023, each facing 134 money-laundering charges and were remanded to prison.

The father and son

are charged jointly, while Saroop, who is alleged to have conspired with them, has been charged separately.

Having been under the radar of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) for some time, the three-person family was arrested at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) on Wednesday, February 8, 2023, as they attempted to flee to the United States of America.

SOCU Head, Assistant

Police Commissioner Fazil Karimbaksh had stated that its suspicions were primarily honed on the large number of unsubstantiated cash deposits made via Kenneth’s business accounts of Ken’s Trading Enterprise.

The sources of funds, and declarations submitted to several commercial banks, show that most of the deposits are attributed to the proceeds of sales from biodegradable food boxes sold

to local businesses, in particular Chinese restaurants, SOCU has disclosed.

Karimbaksh revealed that a substantial number of wire transfers, amounting to over $3.7 billion, were sent to 22 companies in China under the pretext of importing raw materials to produce biodegradable products, while other sums, totalling over $4.1B, were disguised locally.

He pointed out that investigators did not find any legitimate source of these funds which the accused had wire-transferred out of Guyana, adding that their actions suggested that they may be operating as nominees for some Chinese businesses, and were also facilitating tax evasion through Ken’s Trading Enterprise.

Investigators at SOCU, including several senior officers, had contacted several prominent businesses in Georgetown during the investigations, which commenced in August 2020, and the businesses and persons the accused persons listed on their source of funding declaration forms have vehemently denied doing such large transactions with them.

As a result, SOCU noted, it conducted several covert and overt investigations and operations over three years, monitoring the family and their lifestyles until enough evidence was collected beyond a reasonable doubt.

SOCU is that unit of the Police Force that is designated with responsibility for ensuring that money laundering, terrorist financing, and other financial crimes are fully and thoroughly investigated.

Guyana’s AntiMoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act provides for the establishment and management of a Financial Intelligence Unit; provides for unlawful proceeds of all serious offences to be identified, traced, frozen, seized, and forfeited; provides for comprehensive powers for the prosecution of money laundering, terrorist financing, and other financial crimes; provides for the forfeiture of the proceeds of crime and terrorist property; requires reporting entities to take preventative measures to help combat money laundering and terrorist financing; and provides for civil forfeiture of assets and matters connected therewith.

Clipping…

…Presidential wings?

When Burnham gave constitutional imprimatur in 1980 - through his personal Constitution - to the powers that made him more powerful than any British king that had ruled us since 1814, it was part of the logic that flowed from his rigging of elections. Rigging violated the fundamental constitutional stipulation that citizens have a fundamental right to select their government – and he had to protect himself against being hauled before the courts. Even though he flew his flag over the Court of Appeal, he knew that, because of the separation of powers doctrine, he couldn’t constitutionally define the Judiciary as subservient to the Executive – which he was!! – and there was always a threat from that quarter.

So, he arranged through explicit provisions that there was no way he could’ve been removed from office – mostly by giving himself the power to appoint the persons who might be able to do so!!

However, in the Parliamentary system he’d inherited from the Brits – and which he’d studied as a lawyer trained in England – he knew that immunity from criminal prosecution isn’t enjoyed by Members of Parliament under the Westminster system. And the PM was an MP!! This lack of criminal immunity is derived from the key tenet of the British Constitution: that all are equal before the law!!

So, he created an Executive Presidency, that removed him from Parliament and gave him TOTAL immunity from prosecution via Article 182. This states, “(1) Subject to the provisions of Article 180, the holder of the office of President shall not be personally answerable to any Court for the performance of the functions of his or her office or for any act done in the performance of those functions, and no proceedings, whether criminal or civil, shall be instituted against him or her in his or her personal capacity in respect thereof, either during his or her term of office or thereafter.”

At the time – 1980 – even the US President didn’t have this wide immunity, since neither civil nor criminal immunity is explicitly granted in the US Constitution or any federal statute!! However, two years later, their Supremes found - in Nixon vs Fitzgerald (1982) - that the president had absolute immunity from civil damages’ actions regarding conduct within the “outer perimeter” of their duties. Your eyewitness notes that, in the US, immunity is restricted to “civil damages”, while ours extends to criminal.

Should we relook at this clause in the upcoming promised Constitutional Reform process?? Back in 2000, most of the other powers Burnham had granted to himself were removed – but this one remained. The subject has been broached, and your Eyewitness raises it now for a wider discussion, since we know how easily some politicians might become infected by the Burnham syndrome!!

…Haiti’s gang power?

Your Eyewitness knows we’re all keeping our fingers crossed that the Caricom-brokered process to return some semblance of normality to Haiti will hold. “Hear ma plea, Oh Jah/ A song for my land/ Rose up early this morning/ To tha sound of crying/ Another mother shedding her t-ea-r-s oh Jah/ Why all the pain and suffering?/ Why all the senseless killing?/ Could it be that nobody cares? Oh no/ So many sons lost in the slaughter/ Blood running in the streets like water/ A gun in hand knows no f-r-i-e-n-d (oh no)/ Warmongers selling death in my land/ Getting richer of the souls of we children/ Can you tell me when will it end?”

Not soon, if the gangs have their way!! After holding the entire nation hostage and killing one innocent every hour, their leader, Barbeque, says they gotta be involved: “It’s either we’re all at the table, or the table gets destroyed with all of us”!!

Funny…where’d we hear that in Guyana?? …runnings?

There’s a heated back-and-forth about who’s actually supposed to be getting the state’s assistance in Guyana for the UN recommendations on International Decade for People of African Descent – IDPAD.

Ultimately, it’s gotta be PERSONS of African descent!!

GNBS seizes over 1400 packs of cigarettes in Regs 5 & 6

The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) on Saturday seized 1447 packs of assorted cigarettes which do not meet the requirements of the National Standard.

The non-compliant products were offered for sale in markets in Regions Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne). With its mandate to protect consumers from substandard products, the

ings were missing from the packets of the seized items.

The non-compliant packets of cigarettes comprised various brands, including Marshall, Milano, Atlantic, Nise, Cavallo, B&D, Vess, Pine, Record, Kentucky, and 51.

The cigarettes seized are 197 packs of Marshall; 63 packs of Milano; 258 packs of Atlantic; 53 packs of Nise; 348 packs of Cavallo; 96 packs of B&D; 108 packs of

GNBS’ Product Compliance Department monitors seventeen (17) categories of products including cigarettes based on requirements of mandatory National Standards.

Vess; 36 packs of Pine; 48 packs of Record; 216 packs of Kentucky and 24 packs of 51. The seized cigarettes will be destroyed.

Inspectors of the Department visited the Rosignol and Port Mourant Markets to conduct surveillance operations. During the exercise, it was discovered that a total of 1447 packs of cigarettes offered for sale failed to meet the specified requirements.

The primary reason for the seisure was inadequate labelling. Additionally, key details including the display of a pictorial warning over 60% of the package, manufacturing date, batch numbers, and the required ‘For sale in Guyana only’ mark-

To avoid seisure of items, importers and dealers are reminded to ensure that their products adhere to the requirements of the National Standard and Regulation.

Other products monitored by the GNBS include electrical and electronic appliances, weighing and measuring devices, textiles, garments, footwear, safety helmets, safety matches, tyres, gas stoves, cigarettes, PVC pipes, furniture, toys and playthings, Christmas trees and decorative lighting, cellular phones, gold articles, electrical equipment and fittings.

The seized cigarettes

Fire destroys Chinese supermarket at Golden Grove

An early-morning fire on Tuesday of unknown origin wreaked havoc at Golden Grove Public Road on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD), destroying the WuHu one-stop Chinese supermarket.

When Guyana Times arrived on the scene, several Chinese nationals who occupied a section of the building were seen running

to safety.

The security officer who was seconded to the business premises related that the fire stated that at about 3:40h while making checks in front of the building, he heard unusual sounds as if someone was cooking.

Finding it unusual for cooking activity at that hour, he said he attempted to contact the owners via WhatsApp to ensure

everything was okay. The man claimed that his suspicions were aroused when the message failed to deliver, despite being connected to the supermarket’s WiFi, which is located in the kitchen area of the owner’s living quarters.

The security officer further related that he went to the side of the building, where he observed smoke emanating from the up-

per flat. He shouted for the Chinese nationals but there was no response. Consequently, he resorted to banging on the steel doors with a large object to alert them.

“I was hitting for some time, and that’s when they got up and ran out of the building. Within two minutes, the whole building was on fire. Just two minutes more, and they might

have been trapped inside,” the security officer recounted.

Meanwhile, this publication understands that the supermarket had only been operational for about two months, and four Chinese nationals are now displaced and millions of dollars in stocks were destroyed.

An investigation has been launched.

This is the 12th reported case of fire that occurred in April. The most recent case occurred on April 26 and has left two businesses destroyed and seven persons homeless. The blaze also destroyed at least three cars belonging to one of the business persons and damaged several other vehicles at a mechanic shop.

It was reported that flames were seen at the popular Colours of India Boutique at Lot D16 Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice).

Seelochanie Latchman, the 52-year-old proprietress of the boutique, said she observed the electrical wire at the eastern side of the building sparking, and then it burst into flames, causing her and her daughter-in-

law to take the children and run out of the yard. Latchman operated the business on the premises and lived there with her husband, two sons, a daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren.

One of her sons operated a mechanic shop attached to the southern side of the building.

Suresh Latchman, also known as ‘Playerz’, a 52-year-old businessman, related that he had left home on the day in question to transact business in Georgetown, and his wife, children, and daughter-inlaw were at home.

He said that while he was on his way home from Georgetown, he received a telephone call from a friend, informing him that his house was on fire. He arrived shortly after the call and saw his home in flames.

The Fire Department said an officer and seven other ranks from the Onverwagt Fire Service responded with a fire tender, and upon arrival, they went into action and extinguished the fire. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined.

The Chinese supermarket being destroyed by the fire

Port Kaituma businessman charged for illegally purchasing gold

An Essequibo businessman who was allegedly involved in buying gold in the Port Kaituma district without the necessary documentation was on Tuesday charged by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU).

Tarique Deonarine, the proprietor of ‘T and J Transportation Services’ at Port Kaituma, North West District, (NWD), Region One (BarimaWaini) and Windsor Castle, Essequibo Coast appeared before Magistrate Delon Bess at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court where the charges were read to him.

He was charged with the offences of Purchasing gold from a person other than the Board or agent authorised by the Board and Possession of gold by a person not being a producer, under the Guyana Gold Board Act, Chapter 66:01. He pleaded not guilty to the charge and was granted $120,000 bail and the matter was adjourned until May 5.

Based on the information received, Deonarine was in the habit of buying gold at Port Kaituma Water Front without being the holder of the requisite license.

As a result, ranks of the Guyana Police Force in collaboration with officials

Charged: Tarique Deonarine

of the Natural Resources Ministry conducted a sting operation and he was caught in the act.

His business place was subsequently searched and 20.8 pennyweights of raw gold, two smelting molds, one smelting pot, and $897,000 were found.

The matter was later handed over to SOCU for further investigation.

SOCU, under the AntiMoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act is the authority for investigating and prosecution of gold smuggling such as in the present cases, in pursuance of money laundering.

Several other matters of similar gold smuggling and money laundering nature are currently under investigation by the said Unit.

Ramsammy’s Ruminations

PPP’s 32nd Congress reveals growth, unity and readiness for a long stay in Government

This coming weekend, the PPP’s 32nd Party Congress will see participation by more than 3,000 party delegates from all ten regions of Guyana, from its strongholds and the strongholds of its political opponents. The ethnic and racial mix will reflect Guyana, something no other political party in Guyana can achieve. The congress will elect members of the central committee which will elect the executive, the general secretary and the party’s presidential candidate for Election 2025.

There is not even the remotest chance that Dr. Bharat Jagdeo will not be the General Secretary or that Dr. Irfaan Ali will not be the presidential candidate for Election 2025. If I were a betting man, I would bet every single cent I have that GS Bharat Jagdeo will be reelected unopposed and that President Irfaan Ali will be renominated by the party as its presidential candidate for election 2025.

The 31st congress of the PPP was held in 2016 and that congress elected a central committee, an executive and a GS that took the PPP from opposition to the government. The 2016 Congress elected a central committee that succeeded in achieving something very rare in democracies – it successfully navigated a no-confidence motion against the incumbent government. But the GS and his central committee did not just navigate a journey that ended the PNC-led APNU/AFC tenure in government after just one term, it has also supported the party in government since August 2020 to one of the most astonishingly successful periods of government in the history of Guyana and CARICOM. The achievements of the Irfaan Ali-led PPP Government in less than four years rank the performance of this government as one of the most successful governments anywhere in the world in history.

The party has conducted 31 congresses since 1951 when it held its first congress. Except for a party congress held between February 12 - 13, 1955, when Burnham unsuccessfully conspired with others to rig the party election, every congress of the PPP has been a smooth affair, more of a celebration. When Cheddi Jagan was elected to continue as leader in the 1955 congress, Burnham and his small band who opposed Cheddi Jagan insisted they were the real PPP and so after the 1955 congress, there were two parties – the “J” PPP and the “B” PPP. When the “J” PPP won the Election in 1957, the “B” PPP under Burnham changed its name on October 5, 1957, to the PNC.

When the PPP congress opens on Saturday, May 4, people will see a party not only united but stronger than ever. People will see it in the ambience of the congress, in the faces of the delegates and the confidence of the leadership. There will be no doom and gloom; there will only be confidence, pride and celebration all around the delegates and those watching from near and far. Those who are not PPP supporters will see a united party, but a changing party. The harmony and the blending of culture, ethnicity and race in 1950 that inspired nation-building, that inspired the belief in an independent state, that disappeared after 1953 will be evident again under the banner of ONE GUYANA.

One will see a party that has never been stronger. One will see the youth and know that the party will never be in a position and need to wonder who comes next. When Cheddi was frail, people asked who would walk in his shoes. Bharat Jagdeo walked in his shoes but followed the path Cheddi was taking Guyana. Yet people asked who would walk in BJ’s shoes and the party answered with Irfaan Ali walking in his shoes but staying the course of standing up for the working class, pursuing policies and actions guided by the social justice agenda.

In startling contrast, the PNC is preparing for its congress some time in the next few months. They have only said that it may be held in August. The PNC’s congress is already controversial. Unlike the delegates attending the PPP’s 32nd Congress this weekend which will unanimously reelect BJ as its GS, the delegates attending the PNC’s Congress will participate in an ugly fight between Aubrey Norton and others for leadership. Unlike the PPP’s congress, there is great concern among delegates that the election for the central committee, the executive and the leadership of the PNC will be rigged. There is the ongoing ugly saga of the disappearing computer CPU that contains the names of the members. The story of the disappearing CPU is as clumsy as those stupid conspiracies between March 2 and August 2, 2020, when the PNC tried its best to steal Election 2020.

Whether it's local government or national elections the party’s own general membership elections, or even party groups’ elections, there are always tainted elections, always stories of rigging. There is also the ongoing tension of violence. In fact, in one party's general election a few years ago, there were even gun shots. This is the legacy of the PNC. Rigging election is in their DNA. But what is also inevitable is that after the PNC Congress, there will be people sidelined or voluntarily choosing to be bystanders, even a few defections to the PPP. Chaos, conflicts, confusion and disillusionment are natural aftermaths of a PNC Congress.

This weekend, as the PPP celebrates a successful 32nd Congress, there will be thousands of PNC supporters who will wish their party could hold a congress like the PPP. But more importantly, both PPP and PNC supporters will know deep in their hearts that Congress 32 for the PPP sets the stage for the largest-ever victory in a free and fair election that has ever been held in Guyana. People will know that the GS of the PPP and the presidential candidate will lead their party to the PPP’s biggest-ever election victory.

Guiana Shield throws weight behind Guyana in Venezuela border controversy

The Guiana Shield has reiterated its support for Guyana in its ongoing border controversy with Venezuela following a meeting with Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn and Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Brigadier Omar Khan.

The body comprises Suriname, French Guiana, Guyana and Brazil.

During a press briefing on Tuesday at the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Officers Mess, Base Camp Ayanganna, Thomas Land, Georgetown, Minister Robeson Benn reported that during the crucial meeting, emphasis was placed on collaborative efforts to combat security threats and address challenges affecting the populations, territories, and maritime space within the 270 million acres of the Guiana Shield.

He related that the partners reiterated their stance for a peaceful and diplomatic settlement of Guyana’s sovereignty as Venezuela threatens to annex its Essequibo region. He added that Guyana has the full support of the body.

“There was an engaging discussion with our partners identifying their continued support for Guyana’s position in the matter and the fact that going on with the Argile Declaration and other meetings…the intention is to make sure, for the region in respect of this controversy that nothing should be done which would upset things until a decision is made by the courts- International Court of Justice,” Minister Benn said.

Venezuela is already attracting widespread condemnation for its recent promulgation of a “Law for the defence of Essequibo” in its National Assembly, which was condemned as infringing on Guyana’s sovereignty.

The controversial law was promulgated at the instigation of President Nicolas Maduro, in his bid to establish Guyana’s sovereign Essequibo region as a state within his country.

The Organisation of American States (OAS), CARICOM and the Commonwealth have already expressed concern over the recent actions of the Venezuelan regime.

Meanwhile, Minister of Defense of the Republic of Suriname, Krishnakoemarie “Krishna” Mathoera praises Guyana for its role within the Guiana Shield.

On this point, she explained that Guyana will be participating in many strategic initiatives and training geared towards bolstering national security within the Shield which includes the Essequibo region.

“Our future, our development, stability and prosperity of our community depend on security and the actions we as leaders are taking every day. One of the things we have seen is that no one country can do it alone. You

see in the world more and more partnerships and that’s also the aim of this dialogue,” Mathoera disclosed.

Venezuela continues to lay claim to more than twothirds of Guyana’s landmass, Essequibo, and a portion of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in which almost 11 billion barrels of oil have been discovered over the past eight years, and in which oil production activities are ongoing.

In 2018, Guyana moved to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) after exhausting all means of negotiation with Venezuela, including the good office process. Guyana is seeking a final and binding ruling on the October 3, 1899 Arbitral Award to settle the longstanding border controversy.

The Spanish-speaking nation had challenged Guyana’s move to settle the matter, but the ICJ ruled in December 2020 that it has jurisdiction to entertain the application for a final settlement. Having rejected both of Venezuela’s preliminary objections, the ICJ had set April 8, 2024, as the time lim-

it for the filing of a CounterMemorial by Venezuela.

Tensions between Guyana and Venezuela have been simmering since then, but escalated late last year when the Nicolás Maduro Government held a referendum on December 3, 2023, to annex Guyana’s Essequibo region.

Following the referendum, President Maduro subsequently announced a series of actions including, among other things, issuing identification cards to Guyanese living in Essequibo and issuing licences for mining and other activities in Guyana’s Essequibo County.

Given Venezuela’s threatening posture, a historic faceto-face Caricom/CELAC/ Brazil-brokered meeting was held on December 14, 2023, between Presidents Ali and Maduro in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, geared towards maintaining peace in the Region.

The two South American leaders came to several agreements including, that Guyana and Venezuela, directly or indirectly, would not threaten or use force against

one another in any circumstance, including those consequential to any existing controversies between the two States.

Even as Guyana reaffirms its commitment to the judicial process before the World Court, it was also agreed that a Joint Commission of Foreign Ministers and Technicians of Guyana and Venezuela would be established and meet on behalf of the two Presidents in Brazil to continue peace dialogue. That first meeting of the Joint Commission of Foreign Ministers and Technicians was held on January 25 in Brasilia. Guyana’s delegation was led by Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd, who described the meeting as a “good start” to creating a better future of good neighbourliness for the next generation.

Meanwhile, only recently, President Dr. Irfaan Ali recommitted to not only defending Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity but also maintaining friendly relations with its neighbours.

Dr Leslie Ramsammy

Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn and team in discussion with the Minister of Defence of the Republic of Suriname, Krishnakoemarie Mathoera and delegation

Preparatory work to accommodate power ship at Everton behind schedule

Preparatory work at Everton, East Bank Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) to accommodate the power ship is behind schedule, with May 8 being the new date set to commence operation.

Initially, it was reported that the ship was expected in Guyana on May 1, and would get into operation, since by then the preliminary work would have already been completed.

Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Berbice Zone Manager Ravindra Jagnanand on Tuesday related that one of the biggest challenges was the clearing of vegetation. He nevertheless stated that works are progressing to facilitate the power ship.

“We have to build a network to connect the power barge to our network… we have to construct a new transmission line to connect, and for us to dispatch from the ship to our grid,” he explained.

According to Jagnandan, the intention is to tap into an existing transmission line which would enable GPL to access power at different load centres in Berbice and Demerara. The main objective is to minimise outages as a result of generation shortfall.

“What we are experiencing currently is a lot of load shedding, being done because there is a deficit be -

tween our generating capacity and our demand. So, having this boost in out generating capacity will significantly reduce forced outages, or what we call load shedding,” he explained.

“Our team is working assiduously to finish this project and to conclude the network construction and maintenance on the line as quickly as possible,” he added.

However, according to reports, the vessel is yet to arrive in Guyana.

The utility company has been experiencing generation shortfalls due to an unprecedented rise in electricity demand. The situation has led the company to procure a power ship to boost the generation capacity of the GPL within the Demerara-Berbice Interconnecting Grid (DBIS). The local power company is expected to be able to access 36 megawatts of electricity from the ship. Everton on the East Bank of Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), is considered the most suitable location for the ship.

GPL has signed a multi-million-dollar deal with Qatar-based Urbacon Concessions Investments

W.L.L (UCI) for the rental of the floating power plant for two years in a move to add much-needed generating capacity to the grid.

2 busted with ganja during Police operation at Mahaicony, Itaballi

Two men were on Monday apprehended with ganja during separate stopand-search exercises at Mahaica, Region Four (DemeraraMahaica), and Itaballi, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

Police stated that at about 07:30h at the Itaballi Police Checkpoint, a motor vehicle bearing registration GSS 952 was stopped for a routine check. At the time, it was being driven by a 29-year-old construction worker from South Better Hope, East Coast Demerara (ECD). He was the only occupant of the vehicle and as such, the officers requested to search the vehicle.

While searching, the police found a bag which the construction worker identified as his with three transparent plastic bags containing a quantity of cannabis thus leading to his arrest.

He was taken to the Bartica Police Station where the ganja was weighed and amounted to 70.1 grams.

In addition, at about 15:30h, a 'Stop and Search' operation was conducted at Sarah Public Road, Mahaicony, East Coast

Demerara (ECD) where a silver Toyota Fielder Wagon with license plate HC 3486 was intercepted.

The vehicle which was heading in the direction of Georgetown had five occupants inclusive of the driver.

They were requested to exit the vehicle with their belongings. Upon searching the vehicle, a black and green haversack containing three parcels wrapped in transparent plastic containing cannabis was found.

One of the occupants, a 29-year-old male from Stanleytown, New Amsterdam, Berbice, claimed ownership of the haversack. He was arrested and was taken to the Mahaicony Police Station where the cannabis was weighed and amounted to 1,581 grams. He remains in custody as investigations continue.

Meanwhile, the driver and the other occupants were searched, but nothing illegal was found.

Ruimveldt man remanded on narcotics possession charges

Thirty-two-year-old

Michael Calvan of Phase 2 East Ruimveldt, Georgetown was on Tuesday remanded to prison on narcotics trafficking charges.

Police stated that the defendant was arrested on April 30 following the discovery of cannabis in his possession.

He appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates Court before Chief Magistrate, Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus where

he pleaded 'not guilty' and was remanded to prison. He will make his next court appearance on May 17.

It was reported that on Friday last, the Police in Regional Division 4'A' (East Bank Demerara) conducted a 'cordon and search' exercise in the East La Penitence Squatting area during which the accused was nabbed with a quantity of ganja on his premises.

The marijuana that was found during the operations

Remanded: Michael Calvan

Preparatory work is ongoing to accommodate the power ship

31 Banks DIH customers graduate from “Growing Together” initiative

The first batch of 31 Banks DIH customers has completed the “Growing Together” training programme aimed at enhancing small business management while acquiring insights into customer service, marketing, and innovation.

During the graduation ceremony on Tuesday, Banks DIH Marketing

Executive Officer, Carlton Jomao emphasised the organisation's commitment to enhancing the management skills of its customers to effectively manage their respective businesses.

“Today we celebrate the success of the 31 Guyanese Small business owners who have worked with our trainers over the 9-week

duration of the Program. These customers, our graduates, come from communities across the West Bank of Demerara to the East Bank Demerara in which we are well pleased, as we believe that we are now firmly on the way to the 300-customer goal we have set ourselves,” he revealed.

Additionally, he high-

32 more Laing Avenue families receive housing vouchers

In a move to assist homeowners in upgrading their living standards, another 32 households in Laing Avenue, Georgetown, received vouchers valued at $250,000 each on Monday. In addition, they also received an extra $100,000 to cover labour expenses.

The vouchers were distributed by Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, during a simple handing-over ceremony at St. Pius Primary School, Cemetery Road, Georgetown.

This latest allocation marks the third round of distributions, following a pledge made by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo last November to support more families in need of housing assistance.

During the exercise, Housing and Water Minister, Collin Croal highlighted that this programme has seen an overall investment of over $31.5 million in vouchers to date. As such, 122 vouchers have been distributed to the residents since the programme commenced.

A total of 211 households are eligible to benefit from the initiative when the verification process is

completed. In January, the first batch of vouchers, valued at $250,000 each, were distributed to 60 residents from Laing Avenue.

Another 30 residents received their vouchers in February.

In July 2023, VicePresident, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo announced the $50 million house improvement programme for residents of Laing Avenue and Yarrow Dam. Minister Croal reiterated that the government’s housing programme caters to ensure persons from all sections of society have access to affordable housing solutions.

One of the beneficiaries, Andrew Christian welcomed the voucher and

stated that much-needed repairs would be undertaken on his house.

“I feel fantastic. I have been waiting on this project for quite some time…I will be doing the roof, bedroom walls, and window frames. If possible, I will do some painting.”

Brenda Hopkinson, 72, another beneficiary expressed that she is now able to fix her door and zinc sheets, as her house is in a deplorable condition.

“When rain falls, the whole place does flood out. I am glad that my place is getting this help which will go a long way. I am grateful for that since I am an elderly person,” she related.

lighted that the training programme has effectively mitigated challenges for small business owners who have encountered numerous obstacles over the years.

"We've observed that these enterprises grapple with various issues, from inventory management of fast-moving consumer goods to effective marketing," he explained. Furthermore, he noted that this insight drove the launch of the “Growing Together” Small Business Training Programme - an innovative economic empowerment initiative dedicated to fostering the ongoing growth and sustainability of traditional trade businesses.

Meanwhile, Executive Director of Guyana Manufacturing & Services Association (GMSA) Nizam Hassan congratulated the group of customers and noted “This programme was designed to help you

develop the resilience and adaptability required to thrive in the dynamic world of business and you have risen to the occasion demonstrating remarkable perseverance and relentless commitment to your goals,”

He further rendered his expertise to the 31 persons on various forms in which they can enhance their businesses through a point format.

The points in which he delivered spun across social media business engagement, monitoring finances and considering offering delivery services.

“Monitor your finances closely, keep a close eye on your finances, manage your expenses efficiently, and look for ways to cut costs without compromising on quality. Understanding cash flow, profit margins, and the nuances of credit and debt management will secure your business's fi-

nancial health.”

In addition, he noted that the road ahead may still have its fair share of twists and turns but he is confident that they are more than equipped to navigate them.

In 2022, President Dr. Irfaan Ali, along with Muhammad Abdullah from Coca-Cola and Chairman of Banks DIH Limited, Clifford Reis initiated discussions on the importance of educating small and micro business owners due to their vulnerability to rapid changes in Guyana.

The Head of State at the time proposed training initiatives for entrepreneurs, focusing on “Mom and POP” and traditional grocery businesses.

Coca-Cola Latin America and Banks DIH Limited initiated the “Growing Together” Small Business Training Programme, recognising the crucial role of small enterprises in Guyana's business landscape and the critical points that the President raised.

The “Growing Together” initiative is a curriculum-based training program that is available to local merchants.

The program is offered online through weekly tutor-led sessions for business owners and includes management topics such as Entrepreneurship, Small Business Finance, Customer Service, Marketing, and Innovation.

Guyana Manufacturing & Services Association (GMSA) Executive Director Nizam Hassan

Banks DIH Marketing Executive Officer Carlton Jomao

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal

Beneficiary Ron Johnson with his voucher

Labourer gets 6 months for stealing from Timehri Mosque – 2 others granted bail on similar charges

Three persons who have been implicated in a string of burglaries and thefts along the East Bank of Demerara (EBD) were arraigned for the crimes.

Mervin Britton,49, of Second Street, Craig, EBD; Ziggy Forde, also known as 'Fabulous', 'Bumps', 30, of Friendship Squatting Area,

EBD; and Fadil Shaw,34, a resident of Timehri, EBD, were apprehended separately following extensive police investigations.

Forde made his appearance on Monday at the Diamond Magistrate's Court to answer to a charge of 'Burglary' before Magistrate Sunil Scarce. He pleaded 'not guilty' and

was granted $150,000 bail. The case was adjourned until June 11. Police stated that Forde targeted a dwelling in New Hope, East Bank Demerara, where he purportedly stole an iPhone valued at $109,000 along with a phone case valued at $2000.

Britton, on the other hand, was slapped

with a 'Simple Larceny' charge. Appearing before Magistrate Sunil Scarce also on Monday, he pleaded 'not guilty' and was remanded to prison.

His case was adjourned until June 3. Britton stands accused of committing the offense against Vishananad Ramcharan sometime between last Friday and Saturday at Sarran Street, Grove, EBD.

Meanwhile, Shaw appeared on Tuesday at the Diamond Magistrate's Court to answer for the charge of 'Breaking and Entering a Place of Worship' (Timehri Masjid).

The accused, appearing before Magistrate Bess, entered a plea of 'guilty' and was subsequently sentenced to serve six months imprisonment.

Berbice hot dog vendor robbed at gunpoint

Abusinesswoman who operates a hot dog stand was allegedly robbed at gunpoint at Babu John, Public Road Port Mourant, Corentyne, Berbice on Monday evening.

The incident was reportedly committed on Dhanmattie Rampersaud also called "Mono, 47, of Area “R” Ankerville, Port Mourant, Corentyne, Berbice.

According to reports, the woman was plying her trade in the company of her husband when she began feeling unwell. As such, her husband left her and went home to collect her medication.

A few minutes later, the woman observed an identifiable male, dressed in all black approaching her with a handgun. Upon seeing this, the victim started to run but the suspect caught up with her and held onto her hair from behind.

MESSAGES ay

As a result, the victim fell onto the ground. The suspect then dragged her back to her stand while simultaneously assaulting her. She received head injuries.

The suspect then put his hand in her left side pants pocket and took away $13,000 in cash, he then picked up her daily sales money GY$46,400 after which he made good his escape on a bicycle.

A report was made at the Whim Police Station, and the victim was escorted to the Port Mourant Public Hospital where she was treated and sent away.

Ranks acting on information received, went to Rose Hall Town, Public Road, Corentyne, Berbice, where they arrested a 25-year-old labourer of Persaud Street, Rose Hall Town, Corentyne, Berbice. He remains in custody assisting with investigations.

PPP salutes our workers, their indefatigable commitment to nation-building

On the occasion of Labour Day, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) extends best wishes to all workers throughout Guyana. This observance, which celebrates our important human resources, allows workers to rally in solidarity with each other, and further highlights their invaluable contributions towards the development of Guyana.

Since re-establishing the Ministry of Labour in 2020, our Government has been working assiduously to address the issues that were plaguing workers throughout the 2015-2020 stint of the APNU+AFC Coalition in office, from mass retrenchments and dismissals to the massive loss of jobs brought about by their incompetence. The PPP has always been committed, and remains steadfastly committed, to the welfare of our workers; the sanctity and safety of their working environments; the evolution of laws and regulations that govern their working conditions; and, most definitely, the improvement of wages, salaries, and other benefits commensurate with the growth of the economy and

in tandem with the execution of the Government’s national transformational agenda.

Our party campaigned on a manifesto of promises to be executed during the tenure of the Dr. Irfaan Aliled Administration, and was victorious in securing a definitive mandate from the electorate. We are satisfied that the Government has made steady and significant progress, and remains on track to fulfilling all of its commitments to the Guyanese workers.

Very early within this current tenure of our Government, burdensome taxes and fees imposed by the previous Government were reversed, and the Education Cash Grant for the children of our workers, which was taken away, was restored and more than doubled. To date, thousands of jobs have been restored, and tens of thousands of new ones created to allow our citizens dignified entitlements and the chance to provide for their families; while a slew of measures were introduced to ease the burdens brought on by the global rise in the cost-of-living, including the maintenance of a waiver of excise tax -

es on fuel: allowing prices to remain constant at the pumps, and consequently providing more disposable income in the pockets of workers.

Further, tens of thousands of house lots have been allocated to Guyanese across all sectors, the Guyana Online Academy of Learning has surpassed its targeted twenty thousand scholarship awards, and the T-Vet and Board of Industrial Skills Training programmes have been expanded to reach every nook and cranny of our country; while improvements to national infrastructure have been moving apace, allowing workers of all sectors to begin enjoying improved commutes to and from work.

With regard to direct interventions, the Government has placed our security forces, our health care workers, our teachers and other public servants on a path of transformation, while efforts are in train to build on these interventions and expand their depth and reach across the national labour force.

Our party is resolute in its philosophical outlook that positions the

workforce as the bastion of the Guyanese society, and their daily contributions to national development will remain the cornerstone upon which the modern, resilient and prosperous

‘One Guyana’ will emerge.

The PPP salutes our workers, their indefatigable commitment to nation-building, and their resolve to keep agitating for further betterment in their welfare. Long live the Guyanese worker and the Guyanese Labour Movement. Happy Labour Day, from the People’s Progressive Party

ERC remains committed to working with all stakeholders in promoting peace, diversity and tolerance

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) extends heartfelt appreciation to all Guyanese as we celebrate Labour Day, a significant occasion dedicated to honouring the contributions of workers across our nation.

Labour Day serves as a tribute to the hard work, dedication and resilience of workers from all walks of life, who contribute tirelessly to the development and prosperity of Guyana. It is a day to recognize the invaluable role of workers in driving our economy forward, building our communities, and shaping the future of our nation.

Trade unions regard the occasion as a time to

take stock of the gains made and challenges faced by the labour movement over the past year. Their underlying focus is premised on workers’ rights.

Labour Day also provides an opportunity to reflect on the importance of unity and solidarity among workers of different backgrounds and ethnicities. In a diverse society like Guyana, we must come together in harmony to support each other and work towards common goals that benefit all.

The mandate of the ERC is synonymous with promulgating good relations within the work environment. The Commission therefore embraces any

initiative to empower citizens of all ethnic groups through education and training, to equip them for Guyana’s accelerating economy. The ERC remains committed to working with all stakeholders in promoting a work environment that engenders peace, diversity and tolerance. Let us recognize and celebrate the contributions of workers in every sector, and let us strive to create a society where every worker is valued, empowered, and treated with dignity and respect.

Happy Labour Day to all!

Ethnic Relations Commission

The men who were charged

DAILY HOROSCOPES

(March 21-April 19)

A compromise will help speed things up. Listen to what others say and heed wise advice. Accepting input and help may not be easy for you, but in the end, it will save you time, energy and money.

Don't take on the impossible when chipping away at something doable will lead to better results. Maintain a routine that promotes good physical and emotional health. Set firm boundaries.

SUDOKU

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

(June 21-July 22)

(July 23-Aug. 22)

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

Size up your situation and carry out your plans behind closed doors. Giving yourself the space and convenience you require to do things properly is essential. Avoid outside interference.

What you do will have an impact on others. Distance yourself from anyone pressuring you to contribute your cash or time. Be innovative and discover an easy alternative that offers good results.

Negotiate on your behalf. Outside interference will set you back. Put your energy where it counts and educate yourself on pertinent matters. A partnership may run into turbulence.

Everything will go fine if you leave well enough alone and proceed with a positive attitude. Concentrate on learning, expanding your skills and taking advantage of opportunities.

You don't have to spend money to have fun. Use your imagination to implement a plan that includes someone you enjoy being around. Stop procrastinating and start realizing your dreams.

Unusual people, places and pastimes will draw you. Don't put too much stock in someone else's dream. Let what you discover pique your imagination. Romance is on the rise.

Pay attention and make revisions, and you'll lower your overhead. Home improvements you can do yourself will save you a bundle in the long run. Show patience with others.

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Make home your comfort zone. Rid yourself of complications. An emotional issue will get worse if you don't deal with it. Get together with friends or colleagues. Romance is prominent.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

A transformation is in order, but first, ask questions, learn and be sure that whatever you do is for the right reason. Don't follow someone else. Take the helm.

Dig in and get things done. Don't let money slip through your fingers. You can't buy love and shouldn't make a habit of paying for others. Work to stabilize tricky situations.

Lucknow Super Giants are

– after Stoinis and bowlers overcome Mumbai Indians

Having lost more wickets (4) than they hit boundaries (3) in the powerplay, Mumbai Indians were always going to struggle. Four of the first six overs cost a-run-a-ball, or less. Two of the last four suffered the same fate. A total of 144 did not look like it would be enough, and so it proved; as Lucknow Super Giants secured victory with four wickets to spare, and moved into third place on the points table.

Really, the only thing that didn't go according to plan for KL Rahul – well,

two things - was Mayank Yadav leaving the field early on the very night he returned from injury.

Mohsin's missiles

There is almost no relation between Mohsin Khan's amble up to the crease and the ball that he sends down. At times he gets big on the batter; at other times he gets swing that they aren't expecting. He uses his height to great effect, and must have incredible strength in his shoulder. Mohsin seemingly gets all his pace from his shoulders, which de-

Mumbai Indians (20 ovs maximum) Ishan Kishan † c Yadav b Ravi Bishnoi 32 Rohit Sharma c Stoinis

b Mohsin Khan 4 Suryakumar Yadav c †Rahul

b Stoinis 10

Tilak Varma run out (Ravi Bishnoi) 7 Hardik Pandya (c) c †Rahul

b Naveen-ul-Haq 0 Nehal Wadhera

Lucknow Super Giants (T: 145 runs from 20 ovs) KL Rahul (c)†c Mohammad Nabi b Pandya 28 Arshin Kulkarni lbw b Thushara 0 Marcus Stoinis c Tilak Varma b Mohammad Nabi 62 Deepak Hooda c Bumrah b Pandya 18 Nicholas Pooran not out 14 Ashton Turner b Coetzee 5 Ayush Badoni run out (sub [Naman Dhir]/†Ishan Kishan) 6 Krunal Pandya not out 1

Extras (lb 4, w 7) 11 TOTAL 19.2 Ov (RR: 7.50) 145/6

Did not bat: Piyush Chawla, Jasprit Bumrah Fall of wickets: 1-7 (Rohit Sharma, 1.3 ov), 2-18 (Suryakumar Yadav, 2.4 ov), 3-27 (Tilak Varma, 5.1 ov), 4-27 (Hardik Pandya, 5.2 ov), 5-80 (Ishan Kishan, 13.6 ov), 6-112 (Nehal Wadhera, 17.1 ov), 7-123 (Mohammad Nabi, 18.1 ov) •

DRS

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Marcus Stoinis 3-0-19-1 Mohsin Khan 4-0-36-2

Naveen-ul-Haq

Mayank Yadav

3.5-0-15-1

3.1-0-31-1

Ravi Bishnoi 4-0- 28-1

Deepak Hooda 2-0-13-0

Did not bat: Ravi Bishnoi, Naveen-ul-Haq, Mohsin Khan Fall of wickets: 1-1 (Arshin Kulkarni, 0.4 ov), 2-59 (KL Rahul, 7.2 ov), 3-99 (Deepak Hooda, 13.1 ov), 4-115 (Marcus Stoinis, 14.5 ov), 5-123 (Ashton Turner, 17.1 ov), 6-133 (Ayush Badoni, 18.1 ov) • DRS

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Nuwan Thushara 4-0-30- 1

Jasprit Bumrah 4-0-17-0

Gerald Coetzee 3-0-29-1

Piyush Chawla 3-0-23-0

Hardik Pandya 4-0-26-2

Mohammad Nabi 1.2-0-16-1

ceives pretty much everybody. He was producing a false shot roughly once every three deliveries.

Rohit Sharma spooned

actually worked in his favour when was bowling to Suryakumar Yadav. The attempt to flick a boundary to fine leg ended

and was still thinking that should have gone for four. Instead, he was the one gone for 4, and that on his birthday.

Then Nehal Wadhera had cleared his front leg in looking to go big. Instead, he was met with a searing yorker that dipped beneath his bat before he was ready for it, and it crashed into his stumps.

Stoinis's utility

Marcus Stoinis has a hundred in this tournament batting at #3. He also occasionally opens the bowling for LSG. Imagine what India

to the keeper.

It was brave of LSG to keep Stoinis on for a second over, long after the swing from the new ball had disappeared and when he was bowling against one of the most dangerous batters in the world. But that was probably the plan - deny SKY the pace he likes - and it worked.

Mumbai fizzle

Mumbai lost Rohit and Suryakumar in back-to-back overs. They lost Tilak Varma and Hardik Pandya in backto-back balls. MI were thus a sinking ship after just 5.2 overs; they could hit only

would do having a player like that in their T20 squad -- someone who can bat up the order and give them two or three overs every game.

Stoinis knows his limitations. He knows he doesn't have a lot of pace, but that

three boundaries in the powerplay, the fewest this season. It was the perfect situation for Ravi Bishnoi to come in and dictate terms. He bowled four overs on the trot, giving away 28 runs and

picking up Ishan Kishan's

ball was doing a fair bit and LSG's focus was seeing that

ishing with 28 off 22). Hener to make the play, and he did! Big time! Stoinis came into this game with an average of 19 and strike rate

of his runs came off Mayank (21 off 12, 2x4s, 2x6s)

Stoinis's warning

Batting average almost 40, strike rate above 150, four wickets from 12 overs bowled, LSG have a cheat code, and his name is Stoinis. This chase really got in gear when he pulled Gerald Coetzee for back-toback boundaries in the third over. Until then, the new

of 128 against spin in IPL 2024. But he found Piyush Chawla and Mohammad Nabi just to his liking, taking them for a combined 29 off just 16 balls with four fours and a six. That ended up as necessary insurance because, after the fall of his wicket, LSG needed 27 balls to score the remaining 30 runs, and they lost two wickets as well. (ESPNcricinfo)

Ishan Kishan ran Ayush Badoni out

Marcus Stoinis scored quickly in the powerplay

Ravi Bishnoi ended Ishan Kishan's vigil

KL Rahul took his time to get going

KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma greeting each other at the end of the match

Jumbo Jet Race of Champions horse meet 2024…

JOCKEY RONALDO APPADU DELIVERS AS PROMISED

as Stolen Money defeats Spankhurst in feature race

Guyana’s leading jockey for 2024, Ronaldo Appadu, displaying bravery as he promised, delivered a remarkable win last Sunday at the Jumbo Jet Race of Champions horse meet when he piloted Stolen Money to a stunning heist of the winner’s purse in the feature race, and in the process defeated “horse of the year” Spankurst, whom everyone had expected to triumph.

Young jockey Appadu was brimming with confidence before the race was run off at the Rising Sun Turf Club in Region Five. “I am coming with blood in my eyes,” he had said before the feature event. And with only three starters in this race, Spankurst was the overwhelming favourite, while John Bull was eager for a good outing.

Underdog horse Stolen Money was conditioned by veteran trainer Fazal Habibulla, and the owner Dennis Deroop was proverbially over the moon after Sunday’s victory.

“Since at Port Mourant I had to beat Spankhurst. I came here today and the field was thin, and I know I had to position myself. Going up the three-furlong, Jockey (Kiran) Razack came on me, but I ran on the outside, and Stolen

Jockey Ronaldo Appadu recorded three wins on Sunday last, including victory in the feature event

Money delivered. Look out for Stolen Money at Guyana Cup, and I am taking the Champion Jockey (accolade) for 2024,” Appadu has said.

Deroop, meanwhile, has said his horse Stolen Money has shown improvement race after race, and a big win was promised here. “This win was dedicated (to) the fans of Stolen Money, which is a very loved horse. We will take Stolen Money on a break and prepare for the Guyana Cup (on August 11),” Deroop disclosed.

“On normal occasions, Spankhurst will usually be the horse that goes to front, but John Bull had an early start, while Stolen Money closely trailed, but made the killer blow on the homestretch. I told the jockey once he is five lengths behind, he will win. When he was going on the backstretch, he was full of running, and I thought he had them,” Deroop said.

The next race day is tentatively set for May 26 at the Port Mourant Turf Club in Region Six.

GFF Women’s Development League 1…

Fruta Conquerors, Potaro Strikers battle to intense 1-1 draw

Fruta Conquerors FC

and Potaro Strikers

FC have played to a 1-1 draw after a fiercely contested showdown at the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF’s) National Training Centre at Providence, East Bank Demerara, on April 27. The Round Two Women’s League Division One match kicked off with an impressive goal from Fiona Gibbs of Fruta Conquerors in the 6th minute, and relentless efforts from the visiting team to level the score in the first half fell short. However, halftime witnessed a rejuvenated Potaro Strikers displaying a more assertive presence on the field, and their persistence paid off when Anis Livan netted an exhilarating goal in the 87th minute to equalise the scores.

Fruta Conquerors fought hard to mount a comeback, but the final whistle meant they had to settle for a draw, each team thus earning a valuable point.

At the top of the table

sit Guyana Defence Force FC, boasting an impressive twenty-one points from a flawless streak of seven consecutive victories. In second place are the Guyana Police Force FC, also on twenty-one points, achieved through seven wins and a single defeat. Maintaining their grip on third place are Fruta Conquerors FC, having amassed thirteen points from four wins, one draw, and four losses; while

GCF hosts joint training session in support of special education needs

The Guyana Chess Federation’s Special Needs Committee has hosted the first-of-itskind combo training session for teachers and students of eight special education needs schools.

Last Friday, April 26th, nine teachers and more than 20 of their students -- from St. Barnabas Special School, Linden School for Special Children, New Amsterdam Special Needs School, David

tegic gameplay with the players.

The afternoon session allowed these eager students from different schools and different learning abilities to demonstrate what they learned, as they played against each other. The competitive spirit was very present among the students, as they expressed joy and enthusiasm after winning a game or capturing their opponent's pieces. They found ways to

Rose Special School, Diamond Special Needs School, and Schoonord Learning Centre -met at the David Rose Special School, where a venue was generously provided for this training session, coordinated by Ms. Sabine McIntosh, who heads the Special Needs Committee of the GCF.

The main objectives of the GCF are to incorporate chess as a teaching tool, and to identify special needs students with talent that can be developed to the competition level. Students from these continuous training sessions will be able to play in the 2024 National SEN Championship, scheduled for later this year, and in the National Junior Qualifier Championship.

Potaro Strikers FC hold steady in fourth position with five points, garnered from one win, two draws, and four defeats.

Parkuri Jaguars FC remain rooted in fifth place, with one win, one draw, and six losses to their name.

The GFF Women’s Development League One will continue next Tuesday, May 7th, with GDF FC taking on Police FC at the NTC from 21:00hrs.

Chess encourages problem-solving, abstract reasoning, focus, sportsmanship, creative & strategic thinking in decision-making, and pattern recognition, all of which contribute to valuable life skills.

Although several students were familiar with the game, the GCF volunteers were able to assist in correcting and demonstrating the rules of the game, and identifying and commending stra-

communicate when their king was in check or when a checkmate occurred.

The teachers at the training session are the core trainers for chess in their respective schools.

The Guyana Chess Federation and the Special Needs Committee remain committed to elevating the game and its players to the highest level.

In bringing awareness to special needs education, Ms. McIntosh had the kind generosity of the United Women for Special Children (UWSC), who were on hand at the event to present each school with several educational board games for students who may have varying levels of interest.

The GCF would like to thank the David Rose Special School for providing the venue, and the McDonald family who provided meals for the participants and staff.

Special thanks are being extended to the volunteers: John Lee, Marcia Lee, Marsha Ton Chung and Jessica Callender, who provided invaluable assistance during the workshop. The GCF is extremely grateful to Ms. Sabine McIntosh, who

An intense battle was waged between Fruta Conquerors and Potaro Strikers at the NTC on April 27

Students from New Amsterdam Special Needs School

Linden Special Needs students

Archery Guyana’s Continental Judge reports on successful 2024 Pan Am Championships

Archery Guyana’s Continental Judge Nicholas Hing has reported that the 2024 Pan American Archery Championships, held in Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia from April 9 to 14, 2024, were totally successful.

“The World Archery Americas team of 16 judges from across the region conducted the competition with extreme professionalism under the leadership of WAA Secretary General, International Judge and Technical Delegate Sergio Font; International Judges Lais Nunez (Bra), Guille Pistache (Mex) and Ana Luiza De Mesquita (Bra), along with the many others, including retired International Judge and Continental Judge Bob Pian (USA).

“I was immediately accepted and shown friendship and support by everyone in this diverse group of judges from different regions of the Americas. I have

learned so much from each of them and from the experience, since this was my very first international event as a Continental Judge.” Hing has said.

“The experience was an unforgettable one, as the Pan American Championships attract the biggest names in archery, many of them Olympians, and many more prospective Olympians. As judges, we always have to make sure we are aware and updated on any and all rule changes, so as to carry out

our duties effectively and efficiently. Judges’ meetings were held every morning before the start of the day’s matches(in order to) delegate each judge’s responsibility; and we were divided into teams for: equipment checks, line judges, target judges, and scorers.” He further detailed.

The Board of Directors of Archery Guyana again extends its heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Hing on his selection to represent Guyana on the international stage.

Judges at the 2024 Pan Am Archery Championships

With the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 now less than a month away, physical tickets for the 6 games being held in Guyana -- at the National Stadium at Providence, EBD -- will go on sale from Thursday, May 2nd at the Guyana Cricket Board’s (GCB’s) Office on Regent Road in Bourda, Georgetown.

According to Damon Leon, the tournament’s Head of Public Relations and Communications, there are sufficient tickets available to meet the demand in Guyana, but there will be a limit of 6 tickets sold to an individual per match.

Leon told the Guyanese media virtually, “I don’t have the exact reports in front of me, but what I can say is that there are sufficient tickets; because there are two West Indies games happening in Guyana, as well as some other Group C fixtures. There are tickets available for all of those matches at the moment.

“In terms of an exact percentage, I don’t have that in front of me, but suffice to say (that) if there is a bit of a rush to the box offices over the course of the weekend, we will be able to

meet that demand.

“Fans can purchase up to 6 tickets for every available match. So, I think one of the key matches that will be on now is on the 2nd of June, which will be the West Indies’ opening match of the tournament, and the opening match in this part of the world. You can purchase up to 6 tickets for any match that’s available to you,” Leon informed. Leon went on to divulge that

tickets for the final have been sold out, but semifinal tickets are in limited availability, and one semi-final match will be held in Guyana on June 27.

“Tickets are currently unavailable for the final. Those have been sold quite a while ago, and that also holds true for the semifinal which is being held in Guyana. There are some semifinal tickets that are available through the Party

Stand, because we launched the Party Stand tickets last week. So, tickets are available on that front,” he shared. “But for most other matches in the West Indies, there are tickets available, and they’re all available on the website tickets.t20worldcup. com”.

During that same press engagement on Tuesday, Guyana’s Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, was on hand to relate that preparations for the games

in Guyana are going well, and are in keeping with President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s vision of making Guyana a sport hub.

Ninvalle shared, “We’re very pleased to be actually hosting games. We’re hosting six games in Guyana, and we’ve been working assiduously to make sure that everything is in place.

As you know, the President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, has put forward that Guyana will be the hub for sporting activities in the

Caribbean, and we’re working to ensure that this cricket World Cup is part and parcel in that. “We’re getting ready to welcome visitors, and we’re hoping to have matches of the highest quality,” Ninvalle added. Leon also revealed that decentralising box office locations for ticket sales in Guyana is being considered, in order to provide more options outside of the GCB Office in Georgetown.

West Indies will commence their T20 World Cup campaign in Guyana on June 2

ICC T20 World Cup Head of Public Relations and Communications, Damon Leon