Guyana Times - Wednesday, October 18, 2023.pdf

Rose Hall Police outpost to be P converted into 24-hour daycare

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

Issue No. 5526

THE BEACON OF TRUTH WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023

Exxon debunks APNU claims of being told of "agreement" to reduce US$214M cost oil queries …says Petroleum Coordinator most senior contact person on audit Page 9

PRICE $100 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

12-year-old battling for P11 life after being struck down by speeding car

Troy Resources’ gold licence terminated; mine now under Govt control Medical …APNU/AFC went over Gold Board’s head to allow company to export gold …owes billions to State, sub-contractors, workers

See story on page 7

US$12B+ Whiptail project FDP submitted Page 3

… Final Investment Decision to be made next year

P14

practitioners learn to advance care through digital tools …library, and Internet resources to further aid healthcare delivery

Relocation P13 process for EBD "Sea Dam" squatters commences Modernisation of agri sector requires P10 increased collaboration

Man drowns Page 15 while attempting No more hidden tactics to swim across – Traffic Chief on traffic Cuyuni River enforcement

P8

President Dr Irfaan Ali is in Ottawa for the Canada-Caricom Summit. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the current Caricom Chairman, Dominican Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit are co-chairing the Summit. In photo, President Ali examines a document with Belizean Foreign Affairs Minister Eamon Courtenay and Antiguan diplomat, Sir Ronald Sanders (Office of the President photo)

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

BRIDGE The Demerara OPENINGS Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, Oct 18 – 05:00h – 06:45h and Thursday, Oct 19 – 04:00h – 05:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, Oct 18 – 06:05h – 07:35h and Thursday, Oct 19 – 06:45h – 08:15h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY There will be thundery showers and sunshine during the day. Expect clear skies at night.

Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 33 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to Southerly between 1.34 metres and 3.57 metres.

High Tide: 06:31h and 18:29h reaching maximum heights of 2.6 metres and 2.68 metres.

Low Tide: 12:05h reaching a minimum height of 0.68 metre.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2023

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DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Change %

Crude Oil

$91.59/barrel

+1.88

Rough Rice London Sugar

$285.48/ton $738.60/ton

+0.03 0.00

Live Spot Gold Bid/Ask Low/High Change

USD Per Ounce $1939.70 $1913.60 +17.20

$1941.00 $1941.10 +0.89

US$12B+ Whiptail project FDP submitted …Final Investment Decision to be made next year

O

il giant ExxonMobil has submitted a Field Development Plan (FDP) for the over-US$12 billion Whiptail project, which would be its sixth project in Guyana’s waters.

A Final Investment Decision (FID) will, however, be made next year.

Making this announcement was Exxon Guyana President Alistair Routledge, during a press conference on Tuesday. He explained that the FDP for the project was submitted since last week Friday.

“Whiptail, the sixth development in the Stabroek Block, we did in fact submit the Field Development Plan to the Ministry of Natural Resources last week… Friday 13 of October. So that has commenced the process on all regulatory fronts. So, all the permitting processes are now actively engaged.”

“Whiptail is the sixth project… when that comes on stream by the end of 2027, it will bring the installed capacity of production facilities in the country to over 1.2 barrels of oil per day,” the executive further said.

Routledge explained that the project is likely to cost between US$12 billion and US$13 billion. Asked by this publication when a Final Investment Decision is likely to be made, Routledge indicated early next year.

“We’re anticipating somewhere around first quarter, somewhere around first quarter of next year, that we would reach the Final Investment Decision on Whiptail. But as I said, subject to going through the regulatory process,” he explained.

ExxonMobil had approached the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for approval of Whiptail, its sixth project in the Stabroek Block, early this year. According to the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), the project will target between 33 and 72 wells. The documents further detailed that development drilling is expected to last from late 2024 or early 2025 through mid-2030, with the possibility of extending it as late as 2031.

Installation of subsea components

A map showing the Whiptail project

of the project is meanwhile slated to begin in the 2025 second half or early 2026. The installation of the FPSO vessel as well as commissioning and start-up, are expected to occur in 2027.

The life of the project is expected to last for at least 20 years.

According to the US oil company, the project will employ over 500 persons during drilling and installation.

Additionally, between 100 and 180 persons will be employed during production. It was further explained that the Whiptail FPSO vessel will be similar to the one for Yellowtail and will be designed to target 300,000 barrels per day.

When it comes to any potential impacts from the project, the EIA stated that the project will not disturb any natural onshore habitats since it is taking place over 195 kilometres off the coast. However, it stated that the project may potentially have a meaningful impact on water quality, climate, and certain marine biological and socio-economic resources.

However, mitigation measures were

included in the assessment for the EPA to peruse. Meanwhile, the EPA had issued a notice in August inviting citizens to submit any concerns they may have about the project, within 60 days.

The Stabroek Block is 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometres). Exxon, through its local subsidiary Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), holds 45 per cent interest in the block. Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd holds 30 per cent interest and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CNOOC Limited, holds the remaining 25 per cent interest.

ExxonMobil has said it anticipates at least six projects offshore Guyana, including the Whiptail project, will be online by 2027. Production has already started on the Liza Phase 1 and 2 projects, while the third development, Payara, will start up at the end of this year. Yellowtail and Uaru, Exxon’s fourth and fifth developments, have already received governmental approval. (G3)

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guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023

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

Breast Cancer Awareness E

ach year, October is designated Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Throughout the month, numerous activities are organised to raise awareness of this dreaded disease.

Just being a woman is the biggest risk factor for developing breast cancer, but every woman wants to know what she can do to lower her risk of breast cancer.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), cancer is the second leading cause of death globally, accounting for an estimated 9.6 million deaths. Lung, prostate, colorectal, stomach and liver cancer are the most common types of cancer in men, while breast, colorectal, lung, cervical and thyroid cancer are the most common among women.

The WHO has pointed out that the cancer burden continues to grow globally, exerting tremendous physical, emotional and financial strain on individuals, families, communities and health systems. Many health systems in low- and middle-income countries are least prepared to manage this burden, and large numbers of cancer patients globally do not have access to timely quality diagnosis and treatment. However, according to WHO, in countries where health systems are strong, survival rates of many types of cancers are improving thanks to accessible early detection, quality treatment, and survivorship care.

What is very worrying is the fact that the number of cancer deaths could increase by over 50 per cent by 2030, especially in the low- and middle-income countries where most of the deaths are likely to occur. The statistics regarding cancer and its impact on individuals and society tell a sad tale. However, it should motivate us to work harder for better results.

It should be noted that between 30 and 40 per cent of cancer cases could be prevented and one third of cancer cases could be cured through early diagnosis and treatment.

In Guyana, cancer is one of the leading causes of death, and we, as guardians of our own destiny, should continue to make arduous efforts in our campaign to reduce the number of persons dying from the disease. For example, individuals could assist in the prevention of cancer by doing simple things such as: making sure they eat a healthy diet, engage in regular adequate physical activity and the overall maintenance of good health. Research has shown that physical inactivity is linked to breast and colon cancers.

WHO’s Global Recommendations on Physical Activity for Health details how differing amounts and intensities of physical activity for all age groups can help reduce noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including some cancers. It is also worthy to note that the World Cancer Research Fund/ American Institute for Cancer Research has advised that cancer could be prevented if persons could be as lean as possible without becoming underweight; be physically active for at least thirty minutes each day, and avoid sugary drinks among other things.

The three main cancers in Guyana are breast cancer, cervical cancer and prostate cancer. While cervical cancer is a slow-growing cancer that is easily prevented through regular screening and treatment of pre-cancerous lesions, far too many women ignore the pre-testing option and seek medical advice and treatment only when they begin to develop signs of illness. In many cases, Indications of physical illness or signs of discomfort often suggest that the cancer is at an advanced stage. Persons should therefore be encouraged to have regular tests done, since pre-symptoms are not that visible.

The Ministry of Health, along with Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) such as the Cancer Society, and leading Private Sector bodies such as GTT must be commended for the work they are doing in spreading awareness and encouraging persons to get screening. These efforts must be stepped up with the involvement and funding from more stakeholders so that the impact could be more far-reaching.

We can never overstate the importance of having more education campaigns about the disease with the aim of changing lifestyles and getting persons to do regular testing so that treatment could be administered before the disease becomes life-threatening.

Road repair works ongoing at the Providence Road (Red Road) on Tuesday evening. Over the weekend, works were halted due to further ground movement. The road was severely damaged on Thursday and initially, it was suggested that the stockpile of aggregate nearby was the cause. However, a geotechnical examination was done, due to further ground movement (Public Works Ministry photo)

COVID deaths are on the rise again, so what happens? Mask-wearing in hospitals is scrapped

By George Monbiot

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or some people, going to hospital may now be more dangerous than staying at home untreated. Many clinically-vulnerable people fear, sometimes with good reason, that a visit to hospital or the doctors’ surgery could be the end of them. Of course, there have always been dangers where sick people gather. But, until now, health services have sought to minimise them. Astonishingly, this is often no longer the case.

Across the United Kingdom, over the past two years, the National Health Service (NHS) has been standing down even the most basic precautions against COVID-19. For example, staff in many surgeries and hospitals are no longer required to wear face masks in most clinical settings. Reassuring posters have appeared even in cancer wards, where patients might be severely immunocompromised. A notice, photographed and posted on social media last week, tells people that while they are “no longer required to wear a mask in this area”, they should use hand sanitiser “to protect our vulnerable patients, visitors and our staff”. Sanitising is good practice. But COVID-19 is an airborne virus, which spreads further and faster by exhalation than by touch.

The story this policy tells, which the Government would have us believe, is that COVID-19 is all but over. It’s not true. Despite a collapse in testing, which means the figures will be grossly understated, the number of death certificates giving COVID-19 as a cause has been climbing steadily as autumn approaches, rising from 80 per week in early August to 306 in late September.

Who knows what the real number may be?

Forget it, be happy, keep shopping: if you don’t live and work as though the virus has vanished, you’re holding the country back. There could scarcely be a more powerful symbol of the all-clear than doctors and nurses greeting their patients without masks.

When we forget the virus, we forget the clinically-vulnerable people – an estimated 2.2 million in the UK – trapped by our insouciance. Some can scarcely leave their homes, as the dan-

ger to them of infection is so great.

They are the shadow that falls across the sunny story the Government tells, a shadow that must be ignored and denied.

Clinical staff, long after the clapping died away, have continued to carry the weight of this disease. A recent British Medical Association (BMA) survey of hundreds of doctors with long COVID revealed its ruinous impact on their lives. From junior doctors to consultants, they’ve been abandoned by the system, unable to get appointments or referrals, left alone to face the loss of their careers and almost every other aspect of their lives.

Long COVID is so debilitating that a study in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) this year found many who suffer it reported a lower quality of life than people with stage 4 lung cancer.

Another study found that typical symptoms of long COVID “had an impact on health as severe as the long-term effects of traumatic brain injury”. Some doctors, the BMA survey found, are unable to work, to care for their children, cook, perform basic arithmetic, even brush their hair. Some are now facing the loss of their homes, bankruptcy and destitution. Though most caught the virus in the line of duty, they’ve been bright-sided, sacrificed to the officially sanctioned delusion that it’s over, and we should all get on with our lives. They must wish they could.

Masks work, especially if they’re N95 respirators or equivalent. They work best when everyone uses them, and are kept on throughout the time we spend in an enclosed space. This is because the aerosols that carry the virus can keep circulating in a room, long after they’ve been exhaled.

But unmasking isn’t the end of it.

Testing for COVID-19 in hospitals has also been largely curtailed. As the Observer revealed, clinical staff in some places are being discouraged from testing themselves. If they want a test, they must buy it. Why would hospitals want less information about infection? Now we discover that the Government is stockpiling vaccines rather than deploying them. It’s senseless for two reasons. First, because it should be maximising protection before the full autumn surge begins; sec-

ond, because by the time they’re used, new mutations could render them worthless.

Bad enough? Oh no. Current Government guidance advises staff who think they’re infected to stay at home, but only if they “have a high temperature or do not feel well enough to go to work”. Even then, they’re not required to take a test. If they feel well enough to work, it seems, they’re welcome to spread it around.

The same advice has been issued by the Government to schools: “If your child has mild symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat or mild cough, and they feel well enough, they can go to school or childcare.” Were you to devise a formula for spreading the disease as far and wide as possible, you could scarcely do better than this.

We know how to minimise infection: ventilation, air filtration and germicidal ultraviolet light in indoor public spaces; N95 masks and COVID tests provided free to those who want them; mask mandates in clinical settings; vaccines that are widely available and up to date; proper support for workers and for the parents of children who test positive, so they can stay at home without losing their income.

There’s plenty of masking going on, but not the kind that prevents infection. The Government is masking its failure to get to grips with this virus.

It’s masking the fact that, thanks to three years of such failures, COVID-19 is now a constantly-evolving endemic infection likely to kill or disable many thousands every winter. It’s masking the ableism its rhetoric has encouraged: the othering and blaming of those who contract the disease, driven by the widespread but wholly mistaken belief that fit and healthy people don’t catch it. It’s masking the cruelty of a system that shuts down the lives of clinically-vulnerable people.

These facts – and these people – are treated as social embarrassments, locked in the Government’s moral attic like a relative with a mental illness in Victorian England. They’re the country’s family secret. That coughing noise upstairs? Nothing that need concern you. (The Guardian) (George Monbiot is a Guardian columnist)

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023

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News GFS highlights challenges of water supply during fires I

n a bid to dispel prevalent misconceptions, the Guyana Fire Service hosted a demonstration for the media on Tuesday, shedding light on the challenges faced by firefighters in managing water supply during emergencies.

The event aimed to debunk the widespread myth that fire trucks often arrive at the scene without sufficient water to combat blazes effectively.

During the demonstration, Divisional Officer of Operations, Georgetown, Clive McDonald alongside a team of firefighters demonstrated the depletion of water in fire trucks during a simulated fire exercise.

Divisional Officer of Operations, Georgetown, Clive McDonald

active step toward enhancing public awareness and understanding of its operations In a recent interview with

water in their tanks and often seek alternative sources to combat blazes effectively.

“It is a myth. Each fire tender that goes out there has a capacity of water in it and the only time you will see a fire tender or fire truck as you would call it going to a fire scene and then going to an open source of water, whether that be a canal or a hydrant, is because the first observation is that the water in the tank will be unable to extinguish that magnitude of the blaze,” he said.

“So, we will have to move to get copious amounts of water. That is the reason why the fire trucks would divert rather than go straight to the fire scene.”

Firefighters showing how long it would take for the water in the fire trucks to be exhausted

The exercise illustrated the limited duration for which fire trucks can sustain their water supply while combating a significant blaze.

McDonald said this was an eye-opening event that provided valuable insight into the complexities of firefighting operations and the critical importance of a stable water source.

“Upon arrival on a scene… most times the fire is in its developed stage so the first tender that arrives with 400 gallons of water, we would have to resort to a source of continuous firefighting…”, he explained.

While addressing the gathered media representatives, the divisional officer emphasised the need for public understanding regarding the challenges faced by firefighters “For a number of years, we are doing this, since the birth of the Guyana Fire Service.

But of recently, we have been getting some complaints and so we decided to do it continuously, even in this time that we are focusing on fire prevention. It is a continuous education process,” McDonald explained.

The demonstration underscored the resourcefulness and adaptability of firefighters, who, despite challenges, work tirelessly to safeguard lives and property.

The Guyana Fire Service said that it has taken a pro-

Fire Chief Gregory Wickham, he explained that fire trucks are not solely reliant on the

In fact, he explained that firefighters are trained to quickly assess the situation at the fire scene and make stra-

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023

06:00 06:30 07:00 08:00 09:00 10:00 11:00 11:30 12:00 12:05 13:35 14:00 14:30 15:00 16:00 16:30 17:00 17:45 18:00 19:00 20:00 20:30 21:00 22:00 23:30 00:00

(Sign on) Anthony's Navratri Special Cartoons Evening News (RB) Stop Suffering Guy's Grocery Games Grand Designs Paternity Court Divorce Court News Break Movie - Fourth Down and Love (2023) GTT's Golf Tournament's Interview Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir S4 E21 The Tom and Jerry Show S1 E21 Indian Soaps Mr. Iglesias S3 E2 Austin & Ally S2 E7 The Young & The Restless GTT's Golf Tournament's Interview CNN The Evening News Stop Suffering Stand-up Comedy Manifest S4 E4 Queen Charlotte E6 Insecure S1 E1 Sign off

Fire officials and other ranks after the demonstration

tegic decisions.

“One of these tenders, apart from many other pieces of equipment and human resources that are on them, they have a tank with only 250 gallons of water.

We have a pump that is at-

tached to that tender, that pumps at 250 PSI per minute. Therefore, it will not take much time for that tank supply of water to be exhausted,” he said.

According to Wickham, since his time in office, no

fire truck has ever turned up on a fire scene without water. Moreover, the Fire Chief encouraged members of the public to familiarise themselves with their local fire stations and make checks if possible. (G9)

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023

Foundation ◄

Page

Test Questions

by Kate Barnes

Tuesday’s answers 11) A

13) A

12) B

14) C

In this fun and easy water science experiment, we’re going to make a water filter.

Materials:

Two baking pans Empty two-litre bottle Medium-sized flower pot Coffee filter Sand Pebbles Funnel Dirt Water

Instructions:

Put the coffee filter into the flow-

er pot.

Put about two inches of pebbles into the bottom of the flower pot.

Pour sand into the pot until it is about three quarters full.

Use your funnel to add about a cup of dirt to your two-litre soda bottle.

Fill the bottle nearly full with water.

Put on the cap and shake the bottle to mix the soil and water.

Pour some of the muddy water into one of the pans.

Now set the flower pot in the other pan.

Slowly pour the muddy water into

the flower pot and observe the water that comes out into pan.

The water will not be very clear at first. Keep working the water through your filter system and compare it to your control sample of muddy water.

How it works:

The pebbles and sand act as a natural filter and will help purify the water.

Make this a science project:

Try adding food colouring to the water. Try different amounts of pebbles and sand. (sciencefun.org)

One evening I stopped by the field to watch the hay rake drawn toward me by two black, tall, ponderous horses who stepped like conquerors over the fallen oat stalks, light-shot dust at their heels, long shadows before them.

At the ditch the driver turned back in a wide arc, the off-horse scrambling, the near-horse pivoting neatly.

The big side-delivery rake came about with a shriek— its tines were crashing, the ironbound tongue groaned aloud— then, Hup, Diamond! Hup, Duke! and they set off west, trace-deep in dust, going straight into the low sun.

The clangor grew faint, distance and light consumed them; a fiery chariot rolled away in a cloud of god and faded slowly, brightness dying into brightness.

The groaning iron, the prophesying wheels, the mighty horses with their necks like storms— all disappeared; nothing was left but a track of dust that climbed like smoke up the evening wind.

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Troy Resources’ gold licence terminated; mine now under Govt control …APNU/AFC went over Gold Board’s head to allow company to export gold …owes billions to State, sub-contractors, workers

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he Government has announced the termination of the gold licence that was issued by Troy Resources Guyana Incorporated (TRGI), the Australia-based company that has now exited Guyana, owing over $2.6 billion to the state.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Government explained that it has terminated both the Karouni mineral agreement and licence Troy Resources and Pharsalus Gold Incorporated had to mine gold in Guyana.

Additionally, the Government has taken control of the Karouni mine in Region Seven, with the Guyana Geology and Mines (GGMC), the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Police on the ground.

It was explained that Troy has failed to pay its outstanding royalties and rental fees, as well as failed to adhere to its environmental obligations to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and work programme.

“The Government of Guyana is committed to safeguarding the nation’s interests and ensuring that the potential benefits of the Karouni mining site continue to contribute to the economic growth and development of Guyana.”

The Karouni mine in Region 7

“In light of Troy Resources Guyana Inc’s failure to remedy its default concerning several matters, inclusive of the outstanding royalties, rental fees, non-compliance with the work programme, and matters relating to environmental management the Government of Guyana (GoG) has taken necessary actions,” the statement said.

In fact, it now seems that Troy Resources has entered into receivership, the process where creditors sell off a company’s assets to recover monies owed. According to the statement, Troy actually initiated this process, but due to poor site management, persons have been raiding the site and stealing equipment and material.

“TRGI owes the Government above $2.6 billion for unpaid royalties.

This substantial financial liability, coupled with other concerns, has led to the cancellation of the licence.

The Office of the Attorney General has taken the necessary steps to have these sums paid,” the statement said.

“To date, the Government has taken proactive measures to ensure the Karouni mining site remains viable and does not fall into ruin. The GGMC, Corp of Wardens, GRA and the Guyana Police Force (GPF) are all involved in the monitoring and enforcement patrols at the Karouni site.”

APNU override It was also revealed that despite the Guyana Gold Board’s (GGB) disapproval and the suspension of Troy Resources’ exports due to

outstanding royalties owed, the former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government had, in 2019, decided to override the GGB export restrictions on Troy Resources. This resulted in the Australian company resuming its exports, for which it still owes royalties.

To make matters worse, the Government confirmed that a number of companies and sub-contractors are owed millions by Troy.

Additionally, there are workers who are owed wages for extended periods by Troy, and according to the Government, the Ministry of Labour is dealing with this.

“A significant number of companies and sub-contractors are reported to be owed millions of dollars for goods and services provided and were awaiting payment from TRGI. We have seen reports of workers who were not paid for extended periods, these matters are engaging the Ministry of Labour.”

“Cognisant of the above-mentioned information, the Government of Guyana has cancelled and terminated the Mineral Agreement and Mining Licence.

Further, the Government has taken possession of the mining site and all remaining materials,” the Ministry of Labour

A map of the mine

said.

On October 16, 2014, the then People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government had entered into a Mineral Agreement with TRGI and other stakeholders, which centred on the development and operation of a mining project at the Karouni Property. TRGI commenced operations with the first gold poured in November 2015.

However, after a few years of mining operations TRGI reportedly encountered “operational issues and required organisational restructuring.” The company went into “care and maintenance” in early 2021 and despite commitments to resume its operations, failed to do so.

The company did ap-

proach the Government with proposals to liquidate its assets, however, the Government had rejected these proposals for several reasons, including the fact that the payment of outstanding sums was not being addressed promptly under the proposal. Despite this, however, the Government had remained engaged with the company in the hopes of having mining restarted and outstanding debts settled.

GGMC Commissioner Newell Dennison had confirmed to this publication on Monday that Troy has indeed left Guyana, all while owing $2.6 billion. Troy had been sent a demand letter by the Attorney General Chambers since September, to pay their debts.

8 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

No more hidden tactics – Traffic Chief on traffic enforcement

Traffic Chief, Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh

I

n a bold move towards transparency, Traffic Chief, Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh has spoken out against the controversial practice of Police officers concealing themselves while monitoring traffic.

This announcement comes after numerous complaints from drivers who alleged that traffic officers were hiding behind trees and other objects, armed with speed guns, to catch unsuspecting motorists off guard.

Senior Superintendent Singh firmly stated that traffic enforcement should not be shrouded in secrecy, and Police officers should be visible to the public at all times.

He emphasised that officers should be in plain sight, ensuring that their presence serves as a deterrent to traffic violations.

“We have tried our level best to ensure that all our ranks understand the need that what they are doing is not a secret, what they are doing is not meant to be prejudiced towards the public. They must be very open in spaces that are appropriate, and where they are in full view of those who are also within the range of the radar they are in possession of,” he said.

Several drivers had expressed frustration and dissatisfaction with the perceived underhanded methods, calling for greater transparency and fairness in law enforcement.

Further, Singh's stance aligns with the recent directive from Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken, who stated that no officer should resort to hiding while conducting traffic enforcement duties.

The Commissioner emphasised the importance of upholding the law with integrity and respect for the public. He noted that any officer found contravening these guidelines will face appropriate disciplinary actions, Singh said.

“If we are to be made aware of directly where it is occurring, the necessary action will be taken promptly to ensure that a realignment of the rank’s behaviour, and or compliance for future such exercises.

We wouldn't just be speaking to the

rank, but there will be something in writing for if there is a reoccurrence, serious actions will be taken,” the Traffic Chief said.

It is anticipated that these measures will contribute to a safer road environment, where motorists can abide by traffic regulations without fear of unfair or unexpected penalties.

Over the past few months, the Guyana Police Force has been ramping up its traffic enforcement exercises due to an increase in traffic violations. Even though drivers have been complaining about law enforcement officers’ tactics, there has been an increase in speeding cases.

A recent operation resulted in 22 drivers being apprehended for speeding violations. During the operation, law enforcement officers monitored the flow of traffic, identifying and stopping vehicles that exceeded the speed limits. As such, drivers were caught violating the speed limit.

In the first half of 2023, over 2000 persons were charged with ticketing offences.

Acting Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken has noted that despite harsher penalties being imposed on defaulters, violation of traffic laws remains high. According to him, factors contributing to the alarming statistics include speeding, driving under the influence, poor driver behaviour, distracted driving, and inadequate infrastructure. (G9)

Power…

…through beliefs

T

he Israel-Palestinian War has moved from smoldering to HOT in the last week - after Hamas launched its deadly incursion across Israel’s Maginot Wall – not AROUND, like Hitler’s Germans did during WWII. This war has never been Cold since it started in 1948, but now it looks like it might just set off the Armageddon of the Christian Bible, the source - not so incidentally - of the Muslim and Jewish faiths!! They say the most visceral hates are among family, so, maybe to understand the unfolding viciousness, we should go back to the foundation document??

Wiki tells us that “Hamas” ‘…is the Old Testament’s primary term for violence. It is first used in Genesis: "the earth was corrupt in God's sight, and the earth was filled with violence”. It occurs sixty times in the Hebrew Bible, is almost always used to identify physical violence, and is used to describe human, not divine, violence… Among the violent acts included are war, human sacrifice, animal sacrifice, rape and genocide’.

“In the Bible, God commands the Israelites to conquer the “Promised Land”, placing city after city "under the ban" - which meant every man, woman and child was supposed to be slaughtered at the point of the sword. For example, in Deuteronomy, God orders the Israelites to "not leave alive anything that breathes…completely destroy them…", thus leading many scholars to characterize these as commands to commit genocide. Other examples include the story of the Amalekites, the War against the Midianites, and the Battle of Jericho.

In terms of killing babies, in the battle of Jericho, Wiki tells us, “Following God’s law, the Israelites killed every man and woman of every age, as well as the oxen, sheep, and donkeys. Only Rahab, her parents, brothers and all "those who belonged to her" were spared. They were incorporated into Israel. Joshua then cursed anybody who rebuilt the foundations and gates (of Jericho), with the deaths of their firstborn and youngest child respectively.”

The point your Eyewitness is making is that when folks believe LITERALLY in their religious foundational texts, they’ll have a mindset that accepts even notions that seem off the wall nowadays. Over the ages, scholars like St Aquinas have attempted to modify the use of violence through their definition of “just wars” etc. But then you’ll have individuals pointing out the WORD of their GOD is being transgressed!!

To justify raining missiles on Gaza, for instance, the generals might refer to Revelation: “The first sounded, and there came hail and fire, mixed with blood, and they were thrown to the earth; and a third of the earth was burned up, and a third of the trees were burned up, and all the green grass was burned up.” …international law?

But while we will have the folks who stand by their religious beliefs, ever since the Treaty of Westphalia which created the modern state system - a system of international law has evolved that’s supposed to proscribe actions by states. So how does the Israeli warning that a million citizens of North Gaza evacuate to South Gaza stack up?? Well, international humanitarian law says the warning must be “effective” – that is, it must give enough time for the evacuees to get out. The evacuations must also be “unimpeded”! Bombing whole sections in the meantime doesn’t qualify!! Or bombing those who’re actually on their way. Or preventing humanitarian supplies from get to them, etc…

Violating these international laws constitutes “war crimes”. And if there’s any doubt about the siege that Israel has imposed - which has cut off water, electricity, food supplies etc – starvation of civilian populations does qualify!!

So, what’re the law-abiding states gonna do about these war crimes? We’ll be learning about the strong versus the weak!! …of the purse Jewish philanthropists pulled half a billion in funding from Harvard and other Ivy League schools - because they haven’t condemned Hamas. Harvard quickly censured students who protested for Palestinians!! So much for the vaunted sanctity of free speech!!

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

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

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Exxon debunks APNU claims of being told of "agreement" to reduce US$214M cost oil queries

…says Petroleum Coordinator most senior contact person on audit

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il giant ExxonMobil has refuted claims from the Opposition A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), that it told them during a meeting that an agreement had been reached with the Government to lower disputed cost oil claims from US$214 million to US$3 million.

During a press conference on Tuesday, ExxonMobil Guyana President Alistair Routledge made it clear that all his company did, when it met with the Opposition as a courtesy, was explain that they were in the process of seeking a reduction of those costs.

According to Routledge, Exxon met with the Opposition during that meeting of September 8, as part of the company’s open-door policy and desire to engage across the political spectrum and with other stakeholders.

But he stressed that at no time did they inform the Opposition an agreement had been reached to lower the costs.

“What I provided by way of commentary to the leadership of the Opposition… is that we have been going through this process as described, with the working level of the Ministry. And

ExxonMobil Guyana President Alistair Routledge

we believe we provided the documentation to substantially reduce the queries that were (highlighted) from the initial draft audit. And that it was at that sort of level.”

“We did not have any formal agreement with the Ministry and indeed, as the Ministry and the Vice President made clear, there is the expectation that the GRA is the ultimate authority. So, to be clear, I did describe the process to the Opposition.

But I did not say we had reached final agreement that was authorised by the GRA or the Ministry,” Routledge said.

Routledge also provided some clarity over who Exxon was interfacing with on the Government side when they were hav-

ing discussions on the cost oil audit and a potential reduction of the queries. According to the Exxon Executive, Senior Petroleum Coordinator Gopnauth “Bobby” Gossai at the Natural Resources Ministry, was Exxon’s most senior contact point on the audit.

“Under the agreement, the Ministry is the contact point. But as the Government has made clear, they want the GRA to be the point of contact. So that’s who we’re now working with,” Routledge explained. In fact, Routledge revealed that GRA has reached out to them asking for records to support its queries on the cost oil sum flagged in the audit.

Failure to do so may lead to arbitration.

According to Routledge, during his time interfacing with them, Gossai had been asking Exxon to provide documentation.

However, the company was not aware of who immediately reviewed those

documents once they were provided. He noted, however, that Exxon was under the impression that the Ministry was basically serving as the intermediary between Exxon and the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA).

Regret

Routledge also expressed regret that Gossai may face disciplinary action, noting that the company worked directly with Gossai and the technical people under him.

According to Routledge, however, if there is a Police investigation into the Petroleum Coordinator, Exxon will cooperate as it usually does in any foreign jurisdiction it operates.

“I feel very sorry for Mr Gossai. I feel he has been somewhat caught in the middle and was

Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton

working diligently and in support of the process.

Unfortunately, the right (documents) haven’t got to the right people and he has been left carrying that… I think he has worked diligently and with the best of intent,” Routledge told the media.

The Government had announced that a full probe would be launched into who negotiated for a reduction of the US$214 million sum that was initially flagged in 2019 by British firm IHS Markit when it did an audit of ExxonMobil’s cost oil expenses racked up between

1999 and 2017 from its operations in Guyana.

Following the audit on the cost oil claims, GRA had supported this sum and on August 8, had even written to the Natural Resources Ministry indicating it’s no objection to the US$214 million in cost oil claims that was flagged by the British auditing firm.

However, it was subsequently disclosed last month that staff from the Ministry of Natural Resources’ Petroleum Department had reportedly engaged the US oil company and reduced the US$214 million figure to US$11 million and then subsequently to US$3 million.

At a press conference, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo had contended that the Government was under the impression that the reduced US$3 million, which he previously disclosed publicly, was determined by GRA – the technical body appointed as its sole advisor to review these audits. (G3)

10 NEWS Modernisation of agri-sector requires increased collaboration A WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

s Government works towards decreasing the Caribbean Community’s (Caricom’s) food import bill by 25 per cent by 2025, increased partnership between the public and private sectors, international entities and farmers is continuously needed.

In advancing this call, the Agriculture Ministry, in collaboration with several members of the private sector, on Tuesday hosted an agriculture symposium to foster open dialogue among key stakeholders as the country looks to enhance the agriculture sector.

Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (GCCI’s) Agriculture Committee Chairman Brian Edwards explained that the aim of this one-day engagement was to strategise ways to develop a resilient agriculture system that ensures food se-

World University Service of Canada Representative, Munish Persaud; Global Affairs Canada Representative, Adam Loyer; Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, and Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Agriculture Committee Chairman, Brian Edwards

curity and economic prosperity for the country’s hard-working farmers.

“It is our objective to

strengthen partnerships and collaboration among market factors (in order) to build a resilient agriculture market sys-

tem; provide a platform for farmers to voice their challenges; and craft dynamic solutions that address these problems, whether it is accessing innovation, inputs, finance, or Government support,” Edwards has said. “Thirdly, (the intent is) to empower farmers with the knowledge and skills they need to adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving agricultural landscape,” Edwards added.

Edwards has also urged farmers to embrace new opportunities as they navigate

the challenges of this dynamic industry with confidence.

In one such opportunity, the World University Service of Canada (WUSC), in 2021, began implementing the CAD$20 million Sustainable Agriculture in the Caribbean (SAC) project, which is funded by the Government of Canada.

This project sought to train over 12,000 farmers from marginalised groups in the Caribbean on climate-smart and sustainable practices in the agriculture sector.

Global Affairs Canada Representative Adam Loyer noted that this project represents Canada’s continuous support for the economic prosperity and leadership of women in Guyana’s agricultural markets. Further, he expressed that embracing innovation is essential for resilient, modern agricultural production.

“In a world where technology and sustainable practices are constantly evolving, embracing innovation is essential for modern, resilient agricultural production. By adopting cutting edge techniques from precision agriculture and climate-resistant crop varieties, farmers and other market factors can overcome challenges and seize new opportunities,” Loyer has said.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha echoed this need to modernise agricultural practices as he noted that Ministry’s continuous efforts to diversify the industry.

“A major part of the equation for reducing our food import bill and increasing production is to produce and sell these goods right here in our markets in the Caribbean. If we are talking about reducing importation by 25 per cent, then we will have markets for 25 per cent of what we’re producing,” Mustapha said. “…as well as to develop new and innovative ways to grow, process, and distribute those products. Therefore, as we advance the agriculture sector into an expanded, diversified, resilient and competitive sector, it is important to pool our collective resources to create consortiums to take advantage of these opportunities in the agriculture sector and agro-processing industry in Guyana,” Mustapha has said.

Recognising the importance of both private and public investments in the sector, the Agriculture Minister has also noted Government’s efforts to redesign policies that ensure a favourable environment for such investments. (G13)

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

12-year-old battling for life after being struck down by speeding car A student of the Abram Zuil Secondary School on the Essequibo Coast is battling for her life at the Georgetown Public Hospital after she was struck down by a speeding car in the vicinity of the Good Intent Public Road.

The accident reportedly occurred on Saturday, October 14, at about 16:00h, as 12-year-old Rehana Basdeo of Aurora Estate, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) was riding a pedal cycle on her way to see her father.

Guyana Times under-

Injured: Rehana Basdeo

stands that the driver of the motor car, a school

teacher, was proceeding along the roadway at a fast rate of speed when he collided with the child.

She sustained multiple injuries to her head and body, and was picked up in an unconscious state and rushed to the Suddie Public Hospital; from where, due to the severity of her injuries, she was transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC), where she remains in a critical state.

The driver was reportedly arrested, but was later released on station bail as investigations continue.

12 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

741 traffic violations recorded over weekend O

ver the weekend, the Guyana Police Force took firm action against traffic violations, handling a total of 741 cases.

Speeding and driving under the influence (DUI) were the offences.

Ranks dealt with 176 cases of speeding and 10 DUI cases. On Sunday, 302 cases were recorded, including 136 speeding cases and six DUI incidents. This momentum continued into Monday with 439 cases, including 176 speeding violations and four DUI cases.

Throughout the entire week of October 8-14, the Police Force remained dedicated to road safety, address-

Traffic ranks conducting traffic enforcement exercises

ing 2711 cases, with 651 speeding violations and 30 DUI cases. Additionally, 822 charges were filed, 1710 tickets were issued, and 179 sum-

monses were served.

Educational efforts were robust, featuring 20 school lectures, nine driver-focused sessions at institutions like

Courts Guyana Inc and GWI, five bar talks, and daily radio messages. The Force received support from HJ, promoters, and DJs, along with a practi-

cal role-play event in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara), which reinforced the road safety message.

To enhance safety, the Police Force indicated that pedestrian signs were repainted across all Regional Police Divisions, ensuring better visibility and reducing accidents.

By addressing violations, raising awareness, and improving safety measures, the Police Force said they are working diligently to create safer roads for everyone.

The Police continue to urge citizens to respect road rules and prioritise safety, reinforcing the message that responsible driving is a collec-

tive responsibility.

Just days ago, the GPF announced that 494 traffic cases were recorded across all Regional Police Divisions in Guyana in a single day.

Among those cases, 120 were for speeding violations, and 10 drivers were apprehended for DUI. The Police Force has also announced that it has implemented suggestion boxes, and collaboration with members of the Regional Road Safety Councils and other partners is ongoing. These initiatives are all aimed at fostering a positive shift in the mindset of motorists and enhancing public safety on the roadways.

13 Relocation process for EBD "Sea Dam" squatters commences NEWS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal allowing an informal settler to randomly select a house lot

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he Housing and Water Ministry on Monday began engaging in a relocation process a number of squatters living along the sea defence reserves of Grove, Little Diamond, Great Diamond, Farm, Herstelling and Covent

Garden as the agency seeks to altogether clear those East Bank Demerara (EBD) areas of obstructions.

Close to 100 families who had previously indicated interest in obtaining turn-key homes or residential lots participated in this

land allocation process, by which they randomly selected their housing lots - measuring 42 feet x 80 feet - at Little Diamond. Meanwhile, another 45 families registered for low-income housing units.

Each allottee is expected to be able to physically identify their respective lot by Sunday, while efforts to install critical infrastructure would immediately commence.

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal, in assuring the allottees of the ministry’s continuous support throughout this relocation process, has reiterated the CH&PA’s zero-tolerance policy for squatting and commitment to eliminate squatting in every region.

Based on investigations done by the Ministry’s Community Development

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal addressing informal settlers along an East Bank Demerara sea dam

Department in January, approximately 317 structures were found along the EBD sea dam, 57 of which were owned by Venezuelan migrants. These sea dam structures comprised 7 at Covent Garden, 15 at Little

Diamond, 45 at Farm, 49 at Great Diamond, 86 at Herstelling, and 96 at Grove.

However, close to 30 of these structures were unoccupied.

In light of these discoveries, President Dr. Irfaan Ali had, earlier this year, tasked

several agencies – particularly the Housing and Public Works Ministries – to work with these informal settlers on their relocation, stating that the river defences are critical pieces of infrastructure and must be cleared of encumbrances.

The squatters were to get four options under the relocation and resettlement programme. These options were: being provided with an existing turn-key housing unit ready to move in; access to an area at Great Diamond with the necessary infrastructural works already earmarked for persons desirous of building homes; allocations at other schemes; and assistance with building through the President-led Men on Mission initiative, to aid the Venezuelan immigrants.

14 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Medical practitioners learn to advance care through digital tools

…library and Internet resources to further aid healthcare delivery

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Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony he Health Ministry in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) and the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB), on Monday launched a two-day digital workshop to educate

healthcare professionals on how to digitally enable healthcare delivery.

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony explained that this initiative aims to improve patient experience, patient outcome and hospital management

data, as well as reduce medical errors.

"In this modern era of technology, we cannot avoid using digital tools to enhance the services we are delivering. With this new system, we want to empower patients to make their appointments and receive the necessary reminders before their visit to the facility," Anthony said.

To prevent any forms of errors, clinical audits will be introduced into the health system as well.

"Throughout the system, we have seen cases where patients were not provided with the standard of care needed. With this new environment we are building, it should help us to remove some of these

Participants at the Health Ministry and PAHO’s Digital Workshop

areas and show people the protocols they need to follow,” Anthony said.

Dr Anthony added that this advanced surveillance

system further seeks to improve the management and detection of patterns and trends in zoonotic diseases or infections spread between people and animals.

These new advances in healthcare provision through digital technology will support transformation of health coverage in far-flung areas across the Region, according to PAHO Representative to Guyana, Dr Luis Codina.

"It's a very important time because we will discuss all the necessary areas to facilitate this new development. PAHO will continue working with the IDB to ensure the development of digital health is established," Codina said.

Meanwhile, IDB country representative, Lorena Solòrzano-Salazar reiterated the Bank’s support towards digital health transformation within Guyana, through its partnership with the Ministry and PAHO. Also in attendance at Monday’s launch were Advisor to the Health Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy, Director of Infrastructure attached to Mount Sinai Health System, Jeb Weisman and Project Coordinator attached to the Ministry’s Health Sector Development Unit, Vishraj Singh.

Health library database

This digital health workshop was not the only collaboration between PAHO and the Health Ministry this week to boost the skills of medical practitioners in Guyana.

The Ministry, alongside PAHO/World Health Organisation (WHO) and the University of Guyana (UG), also initiated a fiveday workshop to equip healthcare professionals with an understanding of the Virtual Health Library (VHL) Database and the InterNetwork Access to Research Initiative (HINARI) internet resources.

These tools aim to aid them in investigating health issues using peer reviewed and evidence-based research conducted by other researchers and medical professionals.

“If we are going to foster a new environment for research, we have to give people access to journals and we have to implement a virtual library that will allow easy access to evidence-based research,” Anthony said.

“We have lots of opportunities available to develop research agenda, but we need the right infrastructure to transition to virtual libraries; this workshop will provide those tools,” he added.

15 Ramsammy’s Ruminations 106 cases for October session at The people’s President the Berbice Criminal Assizes received a rock star NEWS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

J

glorious welcome in remote Baracara

ust over 260 years ago, one of the first and biggest slave rebellions in the Caribbean took place in Berbice, Guyana.

After initial success, the white slave masters took back brutal control of the colony. But this rebellion nearly overthrew slavery in Guyana, perhaps even inspiring Toussaint Louverture in Haiti, who led the rebellion that made Haiti an independent state several years later.

Dr Leslie Ramsammy Descendants of the maroons still dominate the population of Bara Cara, a small village of about 150 small, modest homes on the Canje River. Since 1763, Bara Cara has never had as much attention as it has been getting in the last three years. Guyana’s present President has visited twice, Guyana’s Vice President has visited once, several ministers of Government, including the Ministers of Agriculture, Infrastructure, Housing and several others, have visited Bara Cara. For the first time in its history, Bara Cara believes somebody cares.

Their President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, came and was given a rock star glorious welcome. The people of Bara Cara, all of them, came out to embrace their President. They praised him; they sang and danced with him; they spoke out loud and clear, letting him know that he is their President. They spoke, and addressed not only their fellow sisters and brothers, but to the rest of Guyana and to the “millions in the world”, they spoke that they love their President.

President Irfaan Ali, the People’s President, made his second visit to Bara Cara, a village deep in the Canje River, some seventyfive miles away from New Amsterdam. This was President Ali’s second visit to Bara Cara. During his first visit, he promised the people he would return. He kept his promise. Traditionally, this community has never voted for the PPP, the President’s party.

They have overwhelmingly voted in the past for the PNC. In the 2020 General Elections, Bara Cara voted almost 100% for the PNC and for David Granger. Yet, Bara Cara has never received as much support as it is now receiving. The People’s President made it pellucidly clear that he is the President for all Guyanese, no matter race, no matter where people live, and no matter whom they vote for. As he left Bara Cara, he promised that he would be back. The people of Bara Cara have no doubt that he would be back. They believe him because he has kept all his promises to the people.

President Ali is the first President of Guyana to visit Bara Cara more than once. During this second visit, President Ali made arrangements for the people to get 150 solar panels, one for each home, making sure that people have access to some electricity. He made arrangements for them to receive a tractor and a plough, so they could prepare 400 acres of land for red beans production. In his first visit on August 11, 2022, he had helped them to start 25 acres of red beans production. He made arrangements for them to have a solar freezer, so that they could store fresh water fish, when their catch is excessive, for use in times of low catch. He made arrangements for more assistance to increase production of livestock and to start aquaculture.

President Ali spoke of recreation, promising to help build a recreation ground and facilities. The Government, meanwhile, has improved health care and schools in the village.

During his first visit in 2022, President Ali had made arrangements for clearing the creek, and villagers have earned more than $10M from that project. Again, in his second trip, he has given the go-ahead to clear two creeks, and the villagers will earn more money.

Bara Cara has never enjoyed as much economic and social growth as it has since August 2020. Indeed, as far as we are aware, only one other President has visited Bara Cara. In 2015, early in his presidency, David Granger became the first President to visit Bara Cara. They voted for the PNC’s Forbes Burnham and deified him. He did not bother to rig the votes in Bara Cara, because he knew the people of Bara Cara voted for him 100%.

But he ignored them, and did nothing to improve their lives.

They voted for the PNC’s Desmond Hoyte, and like Burnham, he ignored them. They voted for all the PNC presidential candidates.

They voted for David Granger in 2011, and again in 2015. David Granger did acknowledge them by visiting them in 2015.

The PNC’s Granger visited Bara Cara on December 13, 2015.

He received a military welcome by the people who had voted almost 100% for him and the APNU/AFC coalition. He took with him some Christmas gifts for the children, and lots of promises for the people. He promised them that Bara Cara would no longer be neglected, implicitly acknowledging that the PNC, which had always enjoyed 100% support from the descendants of maroons, had neglected the community before. He had stated that he “cannot allow Bara Cara to be left behind” anymore. But he had brought nothing to give to the people, other than empty promises.

He promised them equipment for agro-processing, a bus, a boat, and to purchase all of their agriculture produce. He promised to return. He never returned, and no minister ever went back. The agro-processing equipment never arrived. The bus never arrived. Not one red bean was purchased. Like Burnham and Hoyte did, Granger betrayed the people of Bara Cara.

The people know who has their welfare at heart, that they are better off with the PPP. They celebrated the fact that President Ali is a man of his word. Bara Cara knows that the People’s President has treated them as equal Guyanese.

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

From left to right: Police Commander, Senior Superintendent Shivpersaud Bacchus; Justice Sandil Kissoon, New Amsterdam Mayor Wainwright McIntosh and Attorney-at-Law Horacio Edmonson

O

ne hundred and six cases are set for hearing during the October session at the Berbice Criminal Assizes.

The Assizes opened on Tuesday with the traditional parade and marchpast of one Inspector, one Sargent, and 22 other Police ranks along Strand and into Esplanade Road, New Amsterdam, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).

Justice Sandil Kissoon will preside over the assizes, which is expected to run until the first week in February. These cases include 14 murders and 28 for attempt to commit murder.

However, most of the cases set for hearing during the October session of the Berbice Criminal Assizes are related to sexual offences including rape and sexual activity with a child and with a family member; some 60 such cases are listed for hearing.

The State’s cases will be presented by Attorneyat-Law Muntaz Ali. Following the ceremonial opening, the State opened with its first case; a double accused - Ricardo Mitchell called “Cardo” and “Redman”, who is jointly indicted with Bharat Singh called “Jimmy” for the August 10, 2020 murder of 30-year-old Winston Robertson called “High Rollers” or “Redman” of Cotton Tree, West Coast Berbice.

Mitchell is being represented by Attorney-at-Law Murseline Bacchus while Singh is being represented

by Attorney-at-Law Tuana Hardy.

Police had initially issued a wanted bulletin for Mitchell before he was charged as he was said to have been on the run. The State is expected to call 15 witnesses. The case has been adjourned until next Tuesday, when the first witness is expected to take the stand.

Meanwhile, a report delivered to the High Court shows that 57 persons are

at the New Amsterdam Prison awaiting trial in the High Court; 40 for murder and six for attempted murder.

Of those indicted for murder, eight have indicated their intention to plead to the lesser count of manslaughter. (G4)

Charged: Ricardo Mitchell

The Berbice Criminal Assizes opened with a march-past

Man drowns while attempting to swim across Cuyuni River

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he lifeless body of 24-year-old Chris LaRose, who allegedly drowned at Kurutuku Village, Cuyuni River, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), on Sunday was found.

Reports are that on Sunday, LaRose attempted to swim across the Cuyuni River but disappeared and never resurfaced. The incident was witnessed by a nine-year-old child in the village, who raised an alarm.

The man’s body was recovered at about 16:00h on Monday by a search party.

The body was clad in a multi-coloured pair of shorts. Due to the state of

decomposition, detectives were unable to determine if there were any marks of violence.

Investigations are continuing.

16 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Rose Hall Police Outpost to be converted into 24-hour daycare

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The new Police Station at Rose Hall

he former Rose Hall Police Outpost is being converted into a daycare centre. This is according to the President of St Francis Community Developers, Alex Foster, who heads the Spotlight Initiative in Guyana.

Spotlight Initiative seeks to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls, with a particular focus on domestic and family vio-

lence along with sexual and gender-based violence and harmful practices such as trafficking in human beings and sexual and economic labour exploitation.

The initiative is being funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by the United Nations (UN).

“By next week the Rose Hall Police Outpost with the intervention from the Spotlight Initiative will be

converted into the first Police daycare centre – day and night, for Police officers' children to attend,” Foster said on Tuesday as he met with officials from both the EU and UN to highlight some of the successes of the programme, which is in its last phase.

He pointed out that sixteen persons have already been trained and nine of them will be full-time employees along with one Police

officer, who has also received training in early childcare delivery.

“Ten of them in number will be at the centre to provide 24-hour service.”

He noted that this should reduce the absence of Police officers as Police officers who have young children will be able to go to work leaving their children in a safe environment and one which stimulates early childhood development.

Foster also took the opportunity to thank the Municipality of Rose Hall for making the land available for the new Rose Hall Police Station. It is through that, he pointed out, that the 24-hour daycare will become possible.

Notwithstanding those facts, Foster said he also learnt of new developments for the new Rose Hall Police Station.

“I have been informed by the Guyana Police Force that the coordinating office for the Guyana Police Force is at Whim and it will be relocated from Whim and the controlling point will be in the Municipality of Rose Hall,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Spotlight initiative is being implemented under six pillars. There are: (1) addressing legislative and policy framework in line with international human rights standards on all forms of violence against women

Works ongoing to convert the Rose Hall Police Outpost into a 24hour daycare for Police officers’ children

and girls; (2) seeking to build national and sub-national systems and institutions to plan, fund, and deliver evidence-based programmes that prevent and respond to violence against women and girls; (3) focusing on gender inequitable social norms, attitudes, and behavioural change at the community and individual levels; (4) focusing on responsive services for women and girls to use available, accessible, acceptable, and quality essential services, including for

long-term recovery from violence; (5) seeking to deliver quality, disaggregated, and globally comparable data on different forms of violence against women and girls in line with international standards to inform laws, policies, and programmes; (6) giving prominence to women's rights groups, autonomous social movements, and CSOs, including those representing youth and groups facing multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination and or marginalisation.

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Mexican trade delegation meets with PM P

rime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, who is performing the functions of President, met with a visiting Mexican trade delegation, led by the Mexican Ambassador to Guyana, Mauricio Vizcaíno Crespo on Tuesday at the Office of the Prime Minister on Camp Street, Georgetown.

During the meeting, the acting Head of State outlined the Government's transformative vision for Guyana, emphasising the diversification of traditional sectors on the foundation of an economy supported by the resources from oil and gas.

Prime Minister Phillips

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips along with Mexican Ambassador to Guyana, Mauricio Vizcaíno Crespo and the visiting Mexican trade delegation

reiterated Guyana's willingness to collaborate with investors across numerous areas of development, in-

cluding through education and infrastructure.

He extended an invitation to the investors while

stressing the crucial role of the private sector in the country's development.

The discussions also fo-

cused on strengthening bilateral relations between Guyana and Mexico, including the consideration of

a visa waiver programme.

This programme aims to increase people-to-people interactions and foster expanded relations between the two nations.

The visiting investors also expressed an interest in investing in several corporate social responsibility projects, with the aim of bolstering bilateral relations.

The delegation's visit to Guyana is part of a five-day mission dedicated to engaging in ministerial and business-to-business meetings with the local private sector. These discussions aim to create investment opportunities across various sectors, including construction.

Childhood obesity crisis in Guyana being tackled

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Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud with participants of the workshop

ith a more proactive approach towards curbing the childhood obesity crisis in Guyana, a six-day workshop was recently held, specially designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of selected participants from three homes in Georgetown, encompassing both kitchen and administrative staff.

The Rotary Club of Garden City, in partnership with the Human Services and Social Security Ministry, collaborated to help tackle

the pressing health issue of childhood obesity in Guyana.

Childhood obesity is a growing concern worldwide, including in Guyana. It refers to when children have an excessive amount of body fat relative to their age and height. Some factors contributing to childhood obesity can include unhealthy eating habits, lack of physical activity, sedentary lifestyles, and genetic predisposition. The consequences of childhood obesity can be both immediate and long-term,

including an increased risk of developing various health issues such as type two diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and mental health problems. The prevalence of overweight children under 5 years of age is 6.5% and Guyana could be 'on course' to preventing this figure from increasing.

In a press release on Tuesday, it was stated that the core objective of the workshop was to empower the participants with the essential expertise and train-

ing required to deliver nutritious and healthy meals in safe, hygienic, and aesthetically pleasing institutional settings. The spaces were created to adhere to the highest standards of quality.

Upon completing the intensive workshop, the participants are expected to apply the various skills and principles in their work environs.

As such, adhering to workplace procedures that prioritise health, safety, and security. Furthermore, it can be noted that maintaining these high personal presentation

standards was crucial to the participants.

Participants will be equipped with the knowledge to efficiently prepare shopping lists, practice proper storage and pre-preparation techniques, as well as identify and address hygiene risks proactively.

Additionally, they will learn how to skilfully plan menus by utilising the multimix principle and making the most of locally available ingredients. Lastly, they will be able to prepare and present appetising and nutri-

tious meals within institutional settings that mostly caters to children.

The workshop was led by former principal of the Carnegie School of Home Economics, Penelope Harris, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience for all participants.

Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud was present at the closing ceremony of the 6-day workshop and presented the participants from various residential facilities with their certificate of completion.

18

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023

guyanatimesgy.com

Regional

Venezuela, Opposition Argentine conservative pledges sign election deal; US 'backbone' to fight inflation, crime weighs sanctions relief A rgentine conservative Patricia Bullrich, who many pegged just months ago as favourite to win the country's presidential election, is now hoping her promises of economic stability and a tough-oncrime platform can keep her in the race.

The 67-year-old former Security Minister has found herself caught between the ruling leftist Peronist bloc and a shock far-right candidate who has soaked up much of her expected support, with angry voters protesting the political status quo.

Bullrich, a political science graduate popular with

V

e n e z u e l a ' s Government and its political Opposition on Tuesday agreed to electoral guarantees for 2024 presidential elections, paving the way for possible US sanctions relief, though the deal did not lift bans on Opposition candidates barred from public office.

The elections will take place in the second half of next year, and international observers – including from the European Union and United Nations – will oversee the vote, according to terms unveiled following a resumption of long-suspended talks.

Multiple sources had said ahead of Tuesday's announcement that the US was prepared to ease some oil-related sanctions on Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) member Venezuela if Washington was satisfied President Nicolás Maduro had given enough ground to the Opposition.

President Joe Biden's Administration had said it would lift some long-standing punitive measures in exchange for democratic concessions from Maduro.

But as the White House studied the details of the agreement finalised in Barbados, it was unclear how soon the US might act or how far it could go with sanctions relief.

"We welcome the Venezuelan-led political agreement reached today in Barbados," according to a joint statement from the US, EU, Britain and Canada, calling it a necessary step toward the "restoration of democracy in Venezuela".

However, the statement also reiterated calls for release of political prisoners, independence of the electoral process, freedom of expression and respect for human rights, issues that were not covered in Tuesday's agreement.

Reuters reported last week that Venezuela and the US had progressed at their own talks in Qatar toward a deal that could allow at least one additional foreign oil firm to take Venezuelan crude oil for debt repayment if Maduro resumed negotiations with the opposition.

Any significant alleviation of oil sanctions would mark a further shift by the Biden Administration away from former President Donald Trump's

President Nicolás Maduro

"maximum pressure" campaign against the socialist-led South American country.

But US sources have said any US policy changes would be reversible if Maduro failed to meet his election commitments. Oil revenues are crucial to Venezuela's crippled economy.

Banned candidates

Tuesday's meeting in Barbados, brokered by Norway, was the first between the two sides in 11 months.

The talks, meant to provide a way out of Venezuela's long-running political and economic crisis, will continue at an unspecified date, the parties said, adding they are committed to respecting the results of the vote.

The deal says each side can choose its 2024 candidate according to its internal rules, but did not reverse bans on some Opposition figures – including October 22 primary frontrunner Maria Corina Machado – that prevent them from holding office.

The Opposition has said the bans, handed down by the controller general, are unlawful and Washington has rejected any roadblocks to Opposition candidates.

"If you have an administrative inhabilitation... from the controller general of the republic you cannot be a candidate, I want to clarify that," Jorge Rodriguez, the Head of the Government delegation told a press conference after the signing.

Speaking before Rodriguez, the Head of the Opposition delegation Gerardo Blyde had said the deal could allow banned candidates to "recover their rights".

The Opposition has shied away from laying out what could happen if

Machado were to win the primary, but could not register for the general election.

It remains unclear whether the often-fractious opposition would accept her choosing another candidate to run in her stead.

At least two candidates who initially had been set to run in the primary have bowed out because they are banned.

Maduro, President since 2013, is expected to run for re-election, but has not yet formalised his candidacy.

The US imposed sanctions on Venezuela to punish Maduro's Government following a 2018 election that Washington considered a sham. Since 2019, US sanctions have banned PDVSA from exporting its oil to its chosen markets.

The other accord signed by the two sides includes an agreement to protect Houston-based oil refiner Citgo Petroleum, whose parent company's shares will be put for auction starting this month through a court-organised process to pay creditors.

(Reuters)

the business community, has pushed her moderate credentials, hoping to close a gap in polls ahead of the October 22 vote. Polls have her in third place in a tight race between the top three candidates, but with a shot at making a second-round runoff.

"You have to have a backbone to govern this country," Bullrich, the candidate for the Together for Change coalition, told Reuters at a recent press event. "I think I have shown courage, determination, and clarity of ideas."

With annual inflation in triple figures, poverty over 40 per cent and a recession

looming, Bullrich is proposing a dual peso-dollar monetary system, a zero deficit, loosening capital controls, an education focus and strong security measures.

"These are changes Argentina needs: stability, ending inflation, ending the insecurity people are experiencing," she said.

Bullrich is facing front-runner libertarian economist Javier Milei, who is promising more extreme policies, and Economy Minister Sergio Massa. With the polls having proved unreliable previously, she retains a chance to make the second round.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

T&T banks probe unauthorised card payments from customers’ accounts An investigation has been launched into what the Bankers’ Association of Trinidad and Tobago (BATT) has labelled a processing issue which resulted in thousands of dollars, or more, being withdrawn from customers’ banking accounts over the weekend before being partially returned.

Among those raising the alarm were scores of PriceSmart customers, although other businesses reportedly suffered hits.

PriceSmart has since promised to reimburse its affected customers.

In a release on Monday, PriceSmart said, “This was due to a technical issue in processing, which has affected multiple banks and merchants outside PriceSmart’s control in Trinidad and Tobago. We understand that in an effort to correct the transactions, cardholders’ accounts may have a different amount than was initially charged due to foreign exchange rate fluctuation.”

It added, “The banks are working to rectify the transactions, and PriceSmart con-

Customers wait in line to cash their goods at PriceSmart in Chaguanas, Trinidad (file photo)

tinues to collaborate with the banks to ensure our members’ concerns are addressed.

We will ensure that any member who has a discrepancy on their account resulting in an overcharge will be reimbursed for the difference in charges.”

However, some customers were upset PriceSmart had the ability to take money from their accounts without their consent. Some even weighed taking legal action against PriceSmart.

Speaking to Guardian Media via phone, customer Savita Brdigemohan said she observed an unauthorised transaction of over $600

on her credit card statement yesterday. However, she said the last time she visited PriceSmart was three months ago.

Bridgemohan said, “When I contacted the bank they told me it wasn’t an error on their part and when I contacted PriceSmart, PriceSmart told me that they were having some technical difficulties right now and that’s how the monies were deducted from the account and they trying to rectify it. However, it was refunded and the refund is done in US, hence the difference in the payment amount.”

(Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Jamaican man allegedly kills brother, seeks neighbour's help to bury body

A

32-year-old man who is said to have asked for his neighbour’s help to bury his brother, who he allegedly killed earlier, has been taken into Police custody.

The man, whose name Police have declined to release, has been detained for allegedly killing 43-year-old George Jones, a farmer. Both brothers lived in Johnnie's Hill in Clarendon.

Information reaching Observer Online is that around 18:30h on Monday, the suspect, who is believed

to suffer from a mental disorder, was at home with his brother when a dispute developed.

Police said during the dis-

pute, a machete was used to inflict several chop wounds to Jones’ head and upper back.

Around 07:00h on Tuesday, Police said, the sus-

pect told his neighbour that he killed his brother and needed his assistance to dig a hole and bury his body.

The Police were summoned and, upon entering the premises, found George Jones lying face down in a pool of blood next to a fowl coop in the back of the yard.

The suspect was taken into custody, the scene processed, and Jones’ body transported to the May Pen Hospital, where death was confirmed.

(Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023

19

Around The World

Hundreds killed in Gaza hospital OILNEWS OIL NEWS blast, West Bank protests flare

A Oil prices edge

higher ahead of Biden Middle East trip

O

il prices edged higher on Tuesday as investors wait to see if US diplomatic efforts and a trip by President Joe Biden to Israel will prevent the conflict in the Middle East from widening.

Brent crude futures settled up 25 cents to US$89.90 a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate crude (WTI) was unchanged at US$86.66.

Oil prices fell earlier in the session when Richmond Federal Reserve Bank chief Thomas Barkin said that higher long-term US borrowing costs are putting downward pressure on demand but it was unclear how that will affect the central bank's rates decision in three weeks.

Interest rate hikes to curb inflation can slow economic growth and reduce oil demand.

Both oil benchmarks rallied last week on fears that the Israel-Hamas conflict could widen into the oil-producing region.

Global benchmark Brent gained 7.5% in its largest weekly gain since February.

Biden's visit to Israel today will seek to balance showing support for Israel's war on Hamas and trying to rally Arab states to help prevent a regional conflict, after OPEC-member Iran pledged "pre-emptive action" from the "resistance front" of its allies that include the Hezbollah movement in Lebanon.

"Oil prices are wavering as energy traders await to see if the US diplomatic efforts will be successful in preventing the Israel-Hamas conflict from turning into a wider regional war," said Edward Moya, senior market analyst at OANDA. Providing some support to prices, US retail sales increased more than expected in September as households stepped up purchases of motor vehicles and spent more at restaurants and bars.

Weighing on prices with the possibility of increased supply, Venezuela's Government and Opposition are set to resume long-suspended talks on Tuesday, which could lead to Washington easing sanctions, multiple sources said.

Since 2019, the US has imposed sanctions on oil exports from Venezuela, a member of the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), to punish President Nicolas Maduro's Government following elections in 2018 that Washington considered a sham.

The US Government has been seeking ways to increase the flow of oil to world markets to alleviate high prices. But any real oil output increase by Venezuela will take time because of a lack of investment.

Saudi Aramco CEO Amin Nasser said the world's biggest oil company could ramp up production within weeks if needed.

Nasser said global oil demand was set to rise to 103 million barrels per day (bpd) in the second half of this year while the company's spare capacity is 3 million bpd.

"The market is really tight right now and that's why we're so nervous," Phil Flynn, an analyst at Price Futures Group, said.

"Even if OPEC raised production, the most they could raise production is by 3 million barrels a day. That's a scary number," Flynn said.

OPEC+, which comprises OPEC countries and leading allies including Russia, has cut output since last year in what it says is pre-emptive action to maintain market stability.

On US supply, industry data showed crude stocks fell by about 4.4 million barrels in the week ended Oct 13, according to market sources citing American Petroleum Institute figures on Tuesday.

Seven analysts polled by Reuters estimated on average that crude inventories fell by 300,000 barrels in the week to Oct 13.

(Reuters)

bout 500 Palestinians were killed in a blast at a Gaza hospital on Tuesday that Palestinian health authorities said was caused by an Israeli air strike but that the Israeli military blamed on a failed rocket launch by a Palestinian militant group.

The blast was the bloodiest single incident in Gaza since Israel launched an unrelenting bombing campaign against the densely populated territory in retaliation for a deadly cross-border Hamas assault on southern Israeli communities on Oct 7.

It took place on the eve of a visit by US President Joe Biden to Israel to show support for the country in its war with Hamas, the

Islamist group that rules the Gaza Strip, and to hear how Israel plans to minimise civilian casualties.

Reuters could not independently verify who was responsible for the blast.

The Health Minister in the Hamas-run Government of Gaza, Mai Alkaila, accused Israel of a massacre. A Gaza civil defence chief said 300 people were killed and a Health Ministry official said 500 were killed.

Prior to Tuesday's incident, health authorities in Gaza said at least 3000 people had been killed in Israel's 11-day bombardment that began after Hamas militants rampaged into Israeli towns and kibbutzes on Oct 7, killing

People gather as Palestinians work to remove casualties from under the rubble of a house destroyed by Israeli strikes, in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip October 17, 2023

more than 1300 people, mainly civilians.

However, the Israeli military denied responsibility for the blast at the Al-Ahli al-Arabi hospital in Gaza

City, suggesting the hospital was hit by a failed rocket launch by the enclave's Palestinian Islamic Jihad military group. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Ukraine uses US-supplied ATACMS for the 1st time, says Zelensky U kraine has used USsupplied long-range missiles for the first time, President Volodymyr Zelensky has said.

His comments follow reports the weapons, known as ATACMS, destroyed nine helicopters at Russian bases in the east of the country. Ukraine has not confirmed the missiles were used.

Ukraine said an air defence system and other equipment were among the targets hit in Berdyansk and Luhansk.

Dozens of Russian troops were killed or injured in the operation, it added.

"They have performed very accurately. ATACMS have proven themselves," Zelensky said in an evening address posted on social media, without giving details of when or where they were used.

Russia's military has not commented.

The Biden Administration had previously refused to provide ATACMS to Ukraine, but had decided "in recent

weeks" to send them quietly, US media outlet CNN reported, quoting two US officials.

It said that Washington wanted to take Moscow by surprise, in case Russia moved equipment and weapons out of reach before the projectiles could be used.

Because of concerns about tensions with Russia, the missiles provided to Ukraine have a lower range than the maximum the system is capable of, according to the Associated Press.

The variant delivered to Kyiv carries cluster munitions which release hundreds of small bombs from the air rather than a single warhead, AP reported.

Cluster munitions are controversial and are banned by more than 100 states due to their threat to civilians.

Kyiv gaining the ATACMS systems represents a significant boost to its abilities to strike deeper into Russian-held territory. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Uganda Police say Nigeria burns US$1.4Msuspected rebels kill worth of pangolin scales 3 in national park in anti-trafficking stand

A

Ugandan national and two foreign tourists have been killed in an attack by suspected Islamist rebels from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in a national park, the Police said on Tuesday.

The ADF began as an uprising in Uganda but has been based in the Democratic Republic of Congo since the late 1990s. It pledged allegiance to Islamic State in mid-2019 and is accused of killing thousands of villagers in frequent raids over the past decade.

"We have registered a cowardly terrorist attack on two foreign tourists and a Ugandan in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The three were killed, and their safari vehicle burnt," Police spokesperson Fred Enanga said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Enanga said they were pursuing suspected ADF members, and Uganda's

Police posted on its X account a picture of a burning fourwheel-drive vehicle.

The Police did not give a precise location for the attack. The national park's western boundary is the shore of Lake Edward, which separates Uganda from Congo.

Bashir Hangi, spokesperson of the Uganda Wildlife Authority, said the attack took place on Tuesday evening. He did not give the tourists' nationalities.

Rebels from ADF have previously carried out attacks in the area and across the border in Congo where they have bases.

Uganda and Congo launched a joint ground and air operation against the ADF in December 2021 to eliminate them from eastern Congo. Uganda says it has succeeded in killing more than 560 fighters and destroyed their camps. (Excerpt from Reuters)

N

igeria has burned US$1.4M (£1.2M) worth of pangolin scales in a stand against trafficking, officials said.

It is the first time the nation has publicly destroyed seized wildlife products for this reason.

The pangolin is one of the world's most trafficked mammals - their scales are in high demand in traditional Chinese medicine.

Nigeria is a major transit hub for African pangolin scales and other wildlife products trafficked to Asia.

Almost four tonnes of pangolin scales were destroyed alongside seized leopard, python and crocodile skins.

The agency had confiscated the scales in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and a pan-African alliance named the Elephant Protection Initiative.

In August, the leaders of a global wildlife traffick-

ing gang were convicted for smuggling pangolin scales after a four-year investigation and a trial in Nigeria.

And last year, Nigerian customs officials seized 1613 tonnes of pangolin scales and arrested 14 people, Nigeria's Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency said.

Pangolins are the only mammals in the world to be covered in scales, which are made from keratin, the same substance found in human fingernails.

Four species live in Africa, across countries in the south, east and centre of the continent. The creature is near extinct in Nigeria, so pangolins smuggled from there are likely to be from other countries, UNODC said.

Asia is home to the other four species, although they have been totally wiped out in the continent's vast south-east region. (Excerpt from BBC News)

20

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023

guyanatimesgy.com

DAILY HOROSCOPES

ARCHIE

Search for the information you need.

Knowledge will be vital when it comes to getting what you want. Don’t forgo what’s necessary; attending to the fine print will save you time and money.

(March 21-April 19) Don’t give up on your dreams.

Having a plan ready to go when opportunity knocks will encourage success.

Be sure to think things through before making a big decision.

PICKLES

(April 20-May 20) Review every detail before presenting your offer. Someone will look for any reason to take advantage of you. Attend a seminar, talk to experts and devise a solid plan to avoid unnecessary setbacks.

(May 21-June 20) Don’t start something without getting the go-ahead from anyone who may object. Having the proper documents or a blessing from a neighbor, colleague or loved one will determine your success.

PEANUTS (June 21-July 22)

Put on blinders and focus on what you are trying to achieve. Don’t let anyone redirect or tempt you. Invest your time and money in yourself, your skills and your long-term plans.

(July 23-Aug. 22) Look to experts, institutions and yourself for answers, and make changes that will help you make something you enjoy doing or excel at into a lucrative pursuit.

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

Monitor situations before engaging in talks that prompt changes you aren’t ready to accept. Take time to digest what’s available and devise a way to get the most out of what you’ve got.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

Follow the money, evaluate every expense and sell what you no longer need.

A tight budget and solid game plan will put you in a good position. Discipline will create opportunities.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22) Don’t share personal information.

Hide your true feelings from anyone who might take advantage of your vulnerability. Listen carefully to what people are telling you and act accordingly.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21) Pay attention to contract negotiations and medical issues. Ask questions and look for alternatives that suit your lifestyle. An opportunity to gain financial ground is apparent.

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Concentrate on what’s at stake and do whatever it takes to live up to your promises. A simple lifestyle will help you save money and encourage stability.

Don’t take on additional debt.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Don’t believe everything you hear or get involved in someone else’s dream.

Focus on what brings you the highest return. Put your emotions aside and get to work.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023

21

GFF-KFC ELITE LEAGUE CUP 2023

Ann’s Grove, Den Amstel secure first wins A

nn’s Grove and Den Amstel football clubs on Sunday clinched their first victories in the fiercely contested Guyana Football Federation KFC Elite League Cup, being played at the Police Sports Club Ground at Eve Leary in Kingston, Georgetown.

On the opening night of the tournament - Sunday, October 15 - Ann's Grove dominated the match against Victoria Kings by securing a convincing 2-0 victory in a clash between two prominent East Coast Demerara teams.

The two spectacu-

Action between Victoria Kings and Ann's Grove

lar goals of the game were scored in the 34th and 70th minutes by Courtney Odean and Clive Andries respectively. And with their resilient defence, Ann's Grove successfully nullified several close attempts by Victoria Kings, thereby preventing them from finding the back of the net.

In an exciting second match, Den Amstel crafted a 3-1 victory against Guyana Police Force, for which Keanu Laurence played a pivotal role when he scored the first two goals of the match - in the 32nd and 55th minutes.

The Police, through Jamal Harvey, managed to pull one back with a goal in the 60th minute, but Laurence shut down the lawmen’s comeback attempt when he sealed his team's victory with a third goal in the 88th minute, solidifying an impressive performance from Den Amstel.

The KFC Elite League Cup features ten participating teams divided into two groups. Group A comprises Guyana Defence Force, Santos, Buxton United, Fruta Conquerors and Milerock. Group B comprises Western Tigers, Guyana

Police Force, Den Amstel, Victoria Kings and Ann's Grove.

The champion team will be rewarded $1.5M in prize money, while the second-place team would receive $1M. The clubs securing third and fourth places would be recognized with prize money of $500,000 and $250,000 respectively.

The league promises to be an exhilarating showcase of exceptional talent, skill, and intense competition that is guaranteed to captivate fans and enthusiasts alike.

ICC World Cup 2023…

Netherlands script famous win against South Africa – through efforts of Edwards, van der Merwe et al

A

rousing, unbeaten half-century from Scott Edwards gave his bowlers belief, and the Netherlands shot for the stars in demolishing South Africa's storied batting line-up to earn a historic World Cup victory.

Having won both their games at the tournament prior to this by more than 100 runs, and after posting totals of 428 and 311, South Africa had insisted in the lead-up that they had moved on from a groupstage defeat to Netherlands,

which ended their T20 World Cup campaign last year.

Netherlands, meanwhile, had shown fleeting glances of what they might be capable of doing here with heavy yet spirited defeats to Pakistan and New Zealand. This match followed the script, until Edwards and Roelof van der Merwe - who shone with bat and ball - ripped up the script to secure a 38-run win, the first for Netherlands against South Africa in ODIs. Having slipped to 50 for

4, then lurched to 140 for 7, Netherlands piled on 105 runs from the last nine overs via Edwards, who finished on 78 not-out off 69 deliveries; while van der Merwe finished with 29 off 19 and Aryan Dutt finished with 23 off 9 to set a target of 246, which had seemed so unlikely when South Africa's pace quartet of Kagiso

SCOREBOARD

Netherlands (43 ovs maximum) Vikramjit Singh c Klaasen b Rabada 2 Max O'Dowd c †de Kock b Jansen 18 Colin Ackermann b Coetzee 12 Bas de Leede lbw b Rabada 2 Sybrand Engelbrecht c Jansen b Ngidi 19 Teja Nidamanuru lbw b Jansen 20 Scott Edwards (c)† not out 78 Logan van Beek st †de Kock b Maharaj 10 Roelof van der Merwe c †de Kock b Ngidi 29 Aryan Dutt not out 23 Extras (lb 10, nb 1, w 21) 32 TOTAL 43 Ov (RR: 5.69) 245/8 Did not bat: Paul van Meekeren Fall of wickets: 1-22 (Vikramjit Singh, 6.1 ov), 2-24 (Max O'Dowd, 7.1 ov), 3-40 (Bas de Leede, 10.5 ov), 4-50 (Colin Ackermann, 15.1 ov), 5-82 (Sybrand Engelbrecht, 20.2 ov), 6-112 (Teja Nidamanuru, 26.6 ov), 7-140 (Logan van Beek, 33.5 ov), 8-204 (Roelof van der Merwe, 39.5 ov) • DRS BOWLING O-M-R-W Lungi Ngidi 9-1-57-2 Marco Jansen 8-1-27-2 Kagiso Rabada 9-1-56-2 Gerald Coetzee 8-0-57-1 Keshav Maharaj 9-0-38-1

South Africa (T: 246 runs from 43 ovs) Temba Bavuma (c) b van der Merwe 16 Quinton de Kock †c †Edwards b Ackermann 20 Rassie van der Dussen c Dutt b van der Merwe 4 Aiden Markram b van Meekeren 1 Heinrich Klaasen c Vikramjit Singh b van Beek 28 David Miller b van Beek 43 Marco Jansen b van Meekeren 9 Gerald Coetzee c †Edwards b de Leede 22 Keshav Maharaj c †Edwards b van Beek 40 Kagiso Rabada c Engelbrecht b de Leede 9 Lungi Ngidi not out 7 Extras (lb 2, nb 1, w 5) 8 TOTAL42.5 Ov (RR: 4.83) 207 Fall of wickets: 1-36 (Quinton de Kock, 7.6 ov), 2-39 (Temba Bavuma, 9.1 ov), 3-42 (Aiden Markram, 10.2 ov), 4-44 (Rassie van der Dussen, 11.2 ov), 5-89 (Heinrich Klaasen, 18.5 ov), 6-109 (Marco Jansen, 24.6 ov), 7-145 (David Miller, 30.6 ov), 8-147 (Gerald Coetzee, 33.1 ov), 9-166 (Kagiso Rabada, 35.1 ov), 10-207 (Keshav Maharaj, 42.5 ov) • DRS BOWLING O-M-R-W Aryan Dutt 5-1-19-0 Logan van Beek 8.5-0-60-3 Colin Ackermann 3-0-16-1 Paul van Meekeren 9-0-40-2 Roelof van der Merwe 9-0-34-2 Bas de Leede 8-0-36-2

In a tough situation, Scott Edwards scored a 53-ball halfcentury partnership

Rabada, Marco Jansen, Gerald Coetzee and Lungi Ngidi had set about their work.

Then van der Merwe took two wickets for three runs with his first eight balls in South Africa's run chase, and Colin Ackermann and Paul van Meekeren also snared early wickets to leave the overwhelming pre-match favourites reeling at 44 for 4.

Quinton de Kock attempted to paddle Ackermann, only to lob a catch to keeper Edwards via glove then shoulder. Temba Bavuma saw his stumps splattered by van der Merwe's first ball. van Meekeren beat Aiden Markram's defences with a shorter delivery which kept low; and Rassie van der Dussen reverse swept van

der Merwe straight to Dutt at backward point, to put South Africa in all sorts of bother.

David Miller and Heinrich Klaasen looked like they were steadying things with a run-aball partnership of 45, but then Logan van Beek, back in the Netherlands side after missing the New Zealand clash with a hamstring injury, had Klaasen out spooning a short ball straight to Vikramjit Singh at fine leg. Miller hung around, but could only manage 43 from 52 balls, as Netherlands kept chipping away at those around him; and when he became the seventh wicket to fall, bowled by van Beek, the match looked over.

And so it proved, despite Keshav Maharaj and Lungi Ngidi putting on 41 runs for the 10th wicket. Maharaj edging van Beek to none other than captain Edwards, to seal the result with one ball to spare.

After winning the toss, in wet conditions which hung over Dharamsala to delay the start by two hours and reduce the match to 43 overs per side, South Africa predictably opted to bowl first to excellent effect, restricting Netherlands to 22 without loss before Rabada entered the attack in the seventh over and struck immediately.

His first ball cramped Singh for space as he tried to pull, and Singh sent a top edge flying high for Klaasen to take an excellent diving catch after running a long way back from slip.

At the start of the next over, Jansen chimed in with the wicket of Max O'Dowd, caught behind by de Kock, although it took a South Africa review to affirm the dismissal.

By the end of the first powerplay, reduced to nine overs, Netherlands were 28

Roelof van der Merwe and Scott Edwards added 64 off just 37 balls for the eighth wicket

for 2, and the wickets continued to fall in a steady stream as South Africa's seamers nailed their lengths and captain Bavuma used their reviews wisely. This was evidenced again in Rabada's lbw dismissal of Bas de Leede with a gem that nipped back off a length outside off stump. It crashed into the pad just below the knee roll, ball-tracking revealing that the top of middle was in peril.

Coetzee, brought in to add pace at the expense of left-arm wrist-spinner Tabraiz Shamsi, removed Colin Ackermann, who dragged onto his stumps.

Ngidi, forced to wait until his sixth over for his first wicket, had Sybrand Engelbrecht holing out to Jansen at deep fine leg, ending a 32-run stand with Teja Nidamanuru.

It remained Netherlands' highest partnership of the match, until Edwards and van der Merwe got things moving.

Up to that point, Jansen's fumble on the boundary at deep fine leg when Nidamanuru was on 14 was the only real blemish on South Africa's performance, and that in itself didn't prove overly costly, with Jansen trapping Nidamanuru for 20.

But it wasn't long after that South Africa started hae-

morrhaging runs - and extras (an eye-watering 32 for the match) - and fielding errors crept in, allowing Netherlands to recover from the 82 for 5 they had found themselves at when Edwards strode to the crease.

Van der Merwe helped himself to 15 runs off one Coetzee over, including six over deep third, Edwards having dispatched Rabada over the fence at deep square leg a short time before, as the pair put on 64 runs for the eighth wicket.

Ngidi did his best to put South Africa back on track with a slow bouncer that van der Merwe sent flying towards short third and de Kock stepped across to gather, but not before Netherlands had recovered to 204 for 8.

Dutt then teamed up with Edwards to continue Netherlands' push, his unbeaten 23 off just nine balls comprising three sixes: over long on, deep midwicket, and out of the ground beyond deep square, as the pair added an unbroken stand worth 41 and presented South Africa with a mountain to climb, which proved as imposing as the Himalayas overlooking the stadium.(Adapted from ESPNCricInfo)

22

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023

CG United Regional Super50 Tournament 2023…

Coach Ryan Hercules backing experienced Permaul to deliver – Counting on team’s balance and preparation The Georgetown Cricket Club’s men's and women’s hockey teams have, over the years, been dominant under the leadership of National Coach Phillip Fernandes.

The GCC have, over the years, been successful in becoming the Bounty/Antonio Hockey champs against the Woodpecker Hikers Ladies; bagging double gold in the Girls Under-16 and Under-21 divisions of the Paragon Indoor Hockey Championships in Trinidad and Tobago; becoming champions of the ExxonMobil National Indoor Hockey

Championships in 2021; and securing wins in three divisions of play, being the Male and Female second division competitions and the Over-35 competition in 2018.

GCC Head Coach Phillip Fernandes, in an exclusive interview with <<Guyana Times>>, shared how challenging it has been to achieve the top position and maintain that consistency.

“I have found that the level of discipline of the athletes definitely affects the results when they compete, at least in our

Guyana Harpy Eagles Head Coach, Ryan Hercules

club. So, what happened?

Example, the men’s team was hugely successful in the 90s and early 2000s, winning the great majority of competitions they participated in. And that success in fact (spawned) compliancy, and so the training frequency started to reduce, and the attendance at training started to reduce, and players started thinking they can just go into competition and perform at the same level. (They started) to taper off the performance and drop the quality of hockey, and allowed other clubs back in the door to

start to have more success.

So, GCC have tried to stem that tide to return to what they are doing,” he said.

Fernandes went on to emphasize the ascendancy of women’s hockey due to the greater discipline, goal-setting, and commitment to achieving goals.

“The women restarted (playing) hockey in the early 2000s, and in fact were bottom of the barrel; and their training, and dedication saw them rise to the top. Once they reached the top, they were able to stay there. It had to do with the greater commitment by the

women, and their greater competition to get a spot on the team, because there was a larger selection pool to select from and there was a lot better practice attendance and a lot more commitment to the skills training, “he emphasized.

THE GCC Club is now participating in the Woodpecker Products Men’s and Women’s FirstDivision Leagues, with GBTI GCC and Bounty GCC currently sitting on top of their group, both teams being undefeated in their two games.(Omar McKenzie)

Discipline, goal-setting and John Joseph wins STP Investment Inc golf tourney commitment key to GCC

T

he Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) hosted the STP Investment Inc golf tournament on Saturday, October 14, and when the curtains came down on activities, John Joseph was the one who collected the lion’s share of the spoils in the Net tournament.

Speaking on behalf of the LGC at the end of the tournament, Vice President Brian Hackett declared the tournament well attended, with a total of 34 players turning out.

Hackett explained that the weather was perfect for golf, allowing the players to perform at a high level. And further, he explained that the scores indicated that a significant competition had taken place, which is expected to be beneficial as a major tournament approaches.

"STP is a loyal partner.

success over the years – Coach Phillip Fernandes

The winners’ row

is one of the largest we've had this year. So, we continue to express our appreciation for the players as well," Hackett stated.

STP Investment Inc. is involved in construction works in both the public and pri-

John Joseph receiving his prize from STP Investment Inc. Project Manager, David Haraknarine

They have been on board with us for three consecutive years now, and they continue to provide support for the game of golf, to ensure that we can spread the game, knowledge, and enthusiasm across the country. We look forward to their continued support in the coming years, and we thank them for their support,” he said.

“We also want to thank the players who came out to show their support for the club and the sponsor. This turnout

vate sectors. Their services include highway construction, infrastructure development, drainage and irrigation management, sub-contracting services, bridge construction (both asphalt and concrete), industrial and commercial building construction, residential construction (including houses, pools, and drains), and materials’ delivery (including sand, loam, mud, stone, and asphalt).

The company's vision is to establish one of the larg-

est sustainable construction companies in Guyana and the Caribbean by owning and integrating its value chain to complement its products and services.

The results of the tournament were as follows: 0-36 Flight Net Score 1. John Joseph – Gross 80, HC 17, Net 63 2. Rabindranauth Persaud – Gross 80, HC 13, Net 67 3. Avinash Persaud – Gross 71, HC 4, Net 67 4. Arnol Deo – Gross 95, HC 26, Net 69 5. Maurice Deo – Gross 93, HC 24, Net 69 6. Patrick Prashad – Gross 82, HC 11, Net 71 7. Miguel Yunes – Gross 85, HC 14, Net 75 8. Mohanlall Dindnauth – Gross 77, HC 6, Net 71 9. Lewis Ibera – Gross 86, HC 15, Net 71 10. Bhowlaram Deo – Gross 92, HC 20, Net 72

77

Gross Score 1. Avinash Persaud - 71 2. Mohanlall Dindnauth -

3. Rabindranauth Persaud - 80 4. John Joseph – 80 Nearest to pin – Avinash Persaud Longest Drive Mohanlall Dindnauth

from and there was a lot better practice attendance and a lot more commitment to the skills – training “Phillip emphasized.

THE GCC Club is now participating in the Woodpecker Products Men’s and Women’s First-Division Leagues with GBTI GCC and Bounty GCC Currently sitting on top of their group with both teams undefeated in their two games. (Omar McKenzie)

Head Coach Phillip Fernandes

T

he Georgetown Cricket Club’s men's and women’s Hockey teams have been dominating over the years under the Leadership of National Coach Philiip Fernandes GCC over the years have been successful over the years coping the 2023 Bounty/ Antonio’s Hockey champs against the Woodpecker Hikers Ladies, bagging double gold in the Girls Under-16 and Under-21 divisions of the Paragon Indoor Hockey Championships in Trinidad and Tobago, champions of the ExxonMobil National Indoor Hockey Championships in 2021 and securing three divisions being the Male and Female second division competitions and the Over-35 in 2018.

Head Coach of GCC Phillip Fernandes in an exclusive interview with Guyana Times shared the challenges it has been to achieve the top position and maintain that consistency.

‘I have found that the level of discipline of the athletes definitely affects the results when they compete at least in our club so what happened example the men’s team was hugely successful

in the 90s and early 2000s”s winning the great majority of competition they participated in and that success in fact braced to compliancy and so the training frequency started to reduce and the attendance at training started to reduce and players started thinking they can just go into competition and perform at the same level thus starting to taper off the performance and drop the quality of hockey and allowed other clubs back in the door to start to have more success so GCC have tried to stem that tide to return to what they are doing” He said.

Phillip went on to emphasize the growth of Women’s Hockey due to the greater discipline, goal-setting, and commitment to achieve those goals.

“The Women restarted hockey in the early 2000s and in fact were bottom of the barrel and they’re training, and dedication saw them rise to the top. Once they reached the top, they were able to stay there, it had to do with the greater commitment by the Women and their greater competition to get a spot on the team because there was a larger selection pool to select

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023

23

CG United Regional Super50 tournament 2023…

Guyana Harpy Eagles in winning start against WI Volcanoes T

he Guyana Harpy Eagles have defeated the Windward Islands Volcanoes by 10 runs in their opening match of the Regional Super50 last night.

Their match was played at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, where the Volcanoes won the toss and inserted the Eagles to take first strike.

The Eagles managed 229 for nine in their allotted overs, and the Volcanoes responded with 219 all out in 46 overs.

The Eagles lost Chandrapaul Hemraj for one, trapped leg before wicket to Ryan John in the second over, but Tevin

Imlach joined Tagenarine Chanderpaul to put on 63 runs for the second wicket.

Chanderpaul, who recorded 29 runs from 60 balls, was out attempting a hook shot off the bowling of Shadrack Descarte, only for a juggling catch to finally settle in Shermon Lewis’s hands.

Eagles then lost Kevlon Anderson for a single run, but Tevin Imlach continued his push. Imlach played cautiously for his 73-ball 41, hitting just three boundaries before being bowled by John.

The big guns Sherfane Rutherford and Shimron Hetmyer scored 22 and 21 respectively, and Kevin

Sinclair ensured the Eagles reached 200 with 41 from 48 balls, striking one six and four fours along the way.

Gudakesh Motie chipped in with 29, while Romario Shepherd made 14, and extras propped up the score with 21.

John was the pick of the bowlers; he took 4-60 and Descarte supported with 2-25.

The Volcanoes’ response was an eruption from the onset, with Alick Athanaze smashing 11 fours and two sixes on his way to a pulsating 55-ball 75. Athanaze shared in a 35-run partnership for the opening wicket with

Alick Athanaze made 75 in a losing cause for Volcanoes

Johnson Charles (14) to lay the platform for the chase.

Sunil Ambris (19) and Tevyn Walcott (16) each had cameos, and Andre Fletcher showed his experience and looked set to

lead his side over the line with 52 not out. His 85ball innings featured just two boundaries.

Volcanoes were staring down victory with 29 runs needed in the final 10 overs, but managed to

spill the match as a mix up between the wickets for the last wicket, coupled with sharp fielding by the Eagles, resulted in a run out.

Fletcher highlighted that the batting didn’t do as well as they could, and said he felt the middle order could have done more. The skipper credited Athanaze for his batting exploits and the bowlers for their hard work.

The Eagles bowlers shared the wickets, with Shepherd taking 3-35. Sinclair capped an all-round match worthy of the “player of the match” award by taking 2-42, while Nial Smith took 2-44. Left-arm spinners Gudakesh Motie and Veerasammy Permaul each took one wicket.

Resolute Guyana Jags secure another victory CG United Regional Super50 tournament 2023… against Puerto Rico Rain forces no result in CCC-Red Force match – after Bravo’s 81 not out

R

Omari Glasgow’s personal tally is now 6 goals from 4 games

A

tenacious second-half performance at the St. Kitts and Nevis Football Association (SKNFA) Technical Camp lifted Guyana's senior men's national team, the Golden Jaguars, from the jaws of defeat to a crucial 3-1 victory over Puerto Rico on Monday afternoon.

By this victory, they have secured the top spot in Group B. Head Coach Jamaal Shabazz opted for a starting XI that read: Goalkeeper Quillan Roberts, Reiss Greenidge, Cortez Kellman, Jalen Jones, Jonathan Grant, Stephen Duke-McKenna, Kelsey Benjamin, Captain Daniel Wilson, Elliot Bonds, Omari Glasgow and Liam Gordon.

With the Blue Hurricanes coming into

this encounter looking to avenge their Saturday loss, with 3 minutes to go in the first half, Gerald Daz scored with a right-footed shot from the centre of the box. It flew to the high centre of the goal in the 42' to give his team a halftime lead.

Holding their composure, the Golden Jaguars’ determination earned them an equalizer with a right-footed shot from Nathan Moriah-Welsh in the 48’ rocketing from the centre of the box to the centre of the goal.

The Blue Hurricane were eager to inflict retribution on the Jaguars in the second half, but Quinton Roberts saved a phenomenal shot from Isaac Angking in the 52’ when he cleared the ball over his own back line for

a corner, to keep the scores level.

Guyana’s Deon Moore was phenomenal in putting the ball at the back of the Hurricanes’ net, coming off the head from very close range to the centre of the goal in the 76’, with the assist coming from Stephen Duke-McKenna giving the team a major advantage with the score at 2-1.

Omari Glasgow again showed his prowess with a shot from the center of the box to the bottom left corner in the 85’ to seal Guyana’s second win against Puerto Rico.

With their exceptional performance, the Golden Jaguars are just one win away from advancing to League A in the Nations League, marking a significant achievement for the football fraternity.

ain had the final say in a promising encounter between Trinidad and Tobago Red Force and Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC), and the Regional Super50 opener ended in a no-result yesterday.

This match was played at Queen’s Park Oval, where the CCC won the toss and inserted Red Force to bat. The Red Force’s turbulent innings eventually came to a close after 44 overs with the hosts on 246 for four.

CCC showed fight before rain interrupted the match for the final time, reaching 53 without loss in 6.4 overs.

Darren Bravo rolled back the years with a tenacious 81 not-out from 84 balls. His innings featured e i g h t fours and two sixe s , one of which was dispatched over the wicket on a front foot drive off of Kadeem Alleyne.

Support came from Da Silva, who scored 48 runs from 50 balls, in which he struck nine boundaries before being caught at midwicket by pulling a length ball on the back foot off of Romario

Darren Bravo made 81 not out for Trinidad and Tobago Red Force

Greaves.

Jason Mohamed also got among the runs with 43 from 61 balls. His innings was laced with four fours and one six before he was caught at deep square leg off of Abhijai Mansingh.

Yannic Cariah joined Bravo at the crease on the first interruption by rain, with Red Force on 226 for four. Bravo was on 77 and

Cariah was on 20, but in the next two overs before the innings closed, Cariah added 11 to end on 31 not out.

CCC then showed grit in their innings, with their openers digging deep and fending off the international bowlers Akeal Hosein, Jayden Seales and Shannon Gabriel.

Alleyne ended on 27 not out from 17 balls, in which he struck four fours and a six, while Johann Jeremiah made 25 not out from 23 balls, having struck four boundaries.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023

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

Pg 23

Pg 22

CG United Regional Super50 tournament 2023…

Discipline, goal-setting and commitment key

in winning start against to GCC success over the years – Coach Phillip Fernandes WI Volcanoes Pg 22

Pg 23

secure another victory STP Investment Inc golf tourney against Puerto Rico GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, NEWS HOTLINE: 231-8063 EDITORIAL: 223-7230, 223-7231, 231-0544, 225-7761 SPORT: sport@guyanatimesgy.com SALES AND MARKETING: 231-8064 - marketing@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.