Guyana Times -Saturday, September 16, 2023

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Saturday, Sep 16 – 05:00h

– 06:30h and Sunday, Sep 17 – 05:30h – 07:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Saturday, Sep 16 – 17:00h

– 18:30h and Sunday, Sep 17 – 05:15h – 06:45h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

There will be sunshine during the day. Expect clear skies at night. Temperatures should range between 24 degrees Celsius and 34 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.91 metres.

High Tide: 17:23h reaching a maximum height of 2.69 metres.

Low Tide: 11:02h and 23:16h reaching minimum heights of 0.55 metre and 0.48 metre.

LOTTERY NUMBERS

President Dr Irfaan Ali on Friday reiterated Guyana’s commitment towards pursuing a peaceful resolution of the ongoing border controversy with Venezuela through the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

The Head of State gave this assurance during an address to the Permanent Council of the Organisation of American States (OAS) Protocolary Meeting in Washington, DC, on Friday morning.

President Ali stated that Guyana firmly believes that peaceful settlement of disputes is not merely an option, but a duty and a cornerstone principle of the OAS Charter.

“Guyana reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the principles enshrined in both the OAS and UN (United Nations) Charter.

We will continue to champion the cause of international law as we seek a lasting, peaceful resolution to the territorial claim, one that was resurrected on the brink of our independence after decades of acceptance,” the Guyanese leader said during his address.

According to the President, Guyana’s aspiration to join the OAS following its independence in 1966 was overshadowed by and delayed for 25 years due to Venezuela’s claim to two-thirds of its landmass. He noted that after years of consistent diplomatic work, prolonged negotiations, and unwavering commitment to its sovereign rights, Guyana finally became a member in January 1991.

Despite this, however, the territorial claim remains a relic of history that challenged Guyana’s peace, ter-

ritorial integrity, and sovereignty. The Guyanese leader noted that throughout its existence as an independent State, Guyana has endured acts of aggression that threatened its territorial integrity and intimidated and discouraged investments which stunted the country’s growth and development.

“To face that adversity and aggression, Guyana, drawing inspiration from the Charters of the OAS and the United Nations, has consistently pursued the path of peaceful resolution of this unfounded claim. Our acceptance of the decision of UN Secretary-General Guterres, to refer the matter to the International Court of Justice, which is currently hearing the case, is a testament to our unwavering commitment to those principles.”

“Our stance mirrors the

ethos of this very organisation that disputes should be settled peacefully in furtherance of international law… The rich tapestry of the Americas has been woven with threads of mutual respect and recognition of sovereignty. Accepting established borders has been the tradition in our hemisphere, a tradition that has shielded our nations from conflicts, paving the way for peace, cooperation and development,” President Ali contended. Venezuela is laying claims to more than twothirds of Guyana’s landmass, which is in Essequibo, and a portion of its exclusive economic zone (EEZ), in which almost 11 billion barrels of oil have been discovered over the past eight years and oil production activities are ongoing.

Guyana-Venezuela border controversy Guyana will continue to champion int’l law for peaceful resolution – Pres Ali tells OAS – says acceptance of established borders has been a tradition in hemisphere

President Dr Irfaan Ali and his team engaging Secretary General Luis Almagro and other officials at OAS Headquarters in Washington, DC

TURN TO PAGE 5

Editor: Tusika Martin

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

Unity

Patriotism, national pride and excitement are running high as thousands flock to the Guyana National Stadium at Providence to be part of several exciting Caribbean Premier League matches. The Caribbean Premier League is, no doubt, continuing to have a positive impact on the country’s overall economic and tourism development.

It must be stated from the outset that the CPL has also managed to unify Guyana, as persons from all sections of society - regardless of their race, creed, sexual orientation and political persuasion - have rallied behind the very competitive Guyana Amazon Warriors.

So high was the amount of unity and cohesiveness over the years that it is widely believed that the tournament stood out as one of the clear examples of avenues that could be used to push the Government’s “One Guyana” agenda by the utilisation of sport as a mechanism to bridge gaps that exist in our society.

It was this unity and display of cohesiveness that have no doubt motivated and inspired the good performances delivered by the players and organisers of the tournament thus far.

Also, the CPL games this year are coming to Guyana at a time when there has been a notable slowdown in domestic trade and business. Interestingly, the tournament had also come to the country at a time when small businesses were struggling to catch their hands because of various factors that were working against them while depleting their expected levels of revenue and profitability.

It therefore provides these small businesses with an opportunity to maximise their profits through the sale of small portions of confectionery near the stadium and at other Hero CPL-associated parties and events. It would, no doubt, provide those who signed up officially for a number of initiatives with another means of garnering revenue, because scores of overseas-based Guyanese would return home to be part of the fun.

Larger-scale businesses and companies would also benefit tremendously from the hosting of CPL matches here, and while many of them are expected to maximise the marketing opportunities available via the tournament to boost sales and achieve brand popularity, others would settle for just mounting promotions to give back to their loyal customers by providing them opportunities to join the ‘biggest party in sport’.

With the CPL, the occupancy rates at local hotels, bars, sports clubs and community shops have been significantly boosted, especially those that would have access to the televised games being broadcast. As a matter of fact, Guyana’s Head of State, Dr Irfaan Ali, has recently said that all hotels are full.

The Government’s endorsement of the event along with the Cricket Carnival initiative is laudable, and demonstrates its commitment to the development of sport and the upward movement of the direct and indirect benefits to the country’s young tourism sector because of market access and promotional opportunities for Destination Guyana.

Research has shown that the Guyana economy leads others in the league in terms of the benefits accrued from the injection of millions of US dollars each year it hosts the tournament, apart from the other noteworthy indirect benefits. As such, more companies should get on board the league by entering into mutual and lucrative deals with the franchise, and providing various forms of endorsement and sponsorship for the Amazon Warriors, whenever allowed and applicable according to the existing rules and agreement framework.

The truth is that CPL provides an opportunity for the hunger of cricket lovers and supporters to be satisfied; even if a lot of other regional and international matches are not brought, as we would like, to the country.

As the Amazon Warriors continue their bid for dominance in this year’s tournament, every Guyanese is duty bound to stand solidly behind the team and its franchise owners, who have brought so much entertainment, cricket fun, and countless opportunities for business to these shores over the last few years via their continued sponsorship and involvement in the league.

Feeling proud: IMF lauds Guyana’s oil money transparency

Dear Editor, Indeed, as a citizen of our amazing country Guyana, soon to be made greater than it is through the excellent administration and management of our oil resources and people by the administration of His Excellency President Dr. Irfaan Ali, this IMF (International Monetary Fund) report recognizing Guyana’s oil money transparency is a pleasure to my mind, to my heart, and to all Guyanese at large.

I cannot recall an economic period in recent times in which Guyana has ever enjoyed such strong financial support by the IMF.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) Report, in the concluding statements of its 2023 Article IV Consultations, published in Guyana Times of September 14, 2023, stated that the PPP/C Government has made progress in strengthening management and transparency in the oil sector. Further, this internation-

al financial body praised the Government’s work on the Natural Resources Fund (NRF) Act, which was amended in 2021. This act assisted in the transparency and accountability of the use of oil revenues. The act allowed for the appointment of the NRF Board of Directors, the Public Accountability and Oversight Committee, and the Investment Committee. These Committees have all worked to ensure transparency in the use of Guyana’s oil revenues.

The fact that Guyana transfers its oil revenues from the Natural Resources Fund to the budget, and reports the use of these funds in its budget documents, making public all receipts, speaks highly of the accountability of this Government in the area of the oil and gas sector to the Guyanese citizens. This process was highly praised by the IMF visiting team.

I must highlight that Guyana has made huge progress in implement-

ing the recommendations from the 2019 Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) Reports and Standard. This called for consultations with stakeholders, and for making financial information on the oil and gas sector readily available to the general public. It is heartening to learn that the 1986 Petroleum Exploration and Production Act was recently modernised, electronically updated, and received parliamentary approval in August of this year.

Readers, this recently updated Act now calls for the subject minister to consult with the Cabinet and engage with neighbouring states regarding petroleum reservoirs that extend into their territories. The updated Act further calls for licensees to apply for a geological storage licence for carbon dioxide from the Government of Guyana before undertaking operations incidental to Carbon dioxide storage. In addition, under the present updated

Act, Members of Parliament and their families are prohibited from acquiring or holding any legal equitable or beneficial interest in a petroleum licence.

Guyana has also been complimented by the IMF for developing and implementing its new Power Sharing Agreement (PSA), which would be used as a guideline now for the auctioning of the 14 new oil and gas blocks. These are all new administrative measures by the present Government to allow for a level playing field for all stakeholders. Which prevents conflicts of interest, increases the Government’s share of oil profits, and ultimately is essential for the development of the oil and gas industry. These international regulatory financial managerial steps auger well for Guyana to keep striding safely into the new millennium as an unmatched ‘oil and gas giant’.

Sincerely,

Haji Dr Roshan Khan

Education Minister Priya Manickchand on Friday handed over a quantity of CPL tickets to the Den Amstel Primary School for the pupils to attend a cricket match being hosted at the Guyana National Stadium. Over 6000 children are expected to watch the games between Jamaica Tallawahs and St Kitts Patriots today, and Jamaica Tallawahs and St Lucia King on Sunday

Mr Fried Chicken needs to apologise to Hindu community for insensitive packaging

Dear Editor, The management of Mr Fried Chicken at Rose Hall Town, Berbice has recently come under scrutiny following an incident that has been deemed as disre

spectful to the Hindu com

munity.

Chicken, which was sold in packaging fea

turing the Hindu Aum and Trishul symbols, has raised concerns over the improper use of sacred religious imagery. This unfortunate incident has prompted communi

ty members to call for the intervention of the Ethnic Relations Commission, seeking a resolution befit

ting the cultural diversity that forms the foundation of Guyana’s society.

The Commission plays an essential role in safeguarding harmony among all ethnic and religious groups in the nation, and its intervention in this matter is widely anticipated. The mishandling of re -

ligious symbols carries implications that cannot be ignored, as it undermines the principle of respect and inclusivity that is expected within a multicultural society.

The Hindu community, one of the largest religious groups in Guyana, has expressed disappoint -

We can do more for the voiceless

Dear Madam First Lady,

This letter serves two main purposes: first, I would like to commend you for all the hard work and contributions towards animal welfare in Guyana that you and your family have invested. You are in a position of power and influence, and I urge you to use your position more to push as we finally put an end to animal suffering and cruelty in Guyana. We don’t know when we will get another First Lady with such a love for animals; so, for now, let us make the best of it. With that said, I humbly suggest the following:

• The Laws of Guyana relative to Animal Welfare

(RE: GUYANA ACT NO. 18 OF 2018 ANIMAL WELFARE ACT 2018) need to be revised, and moreso modernised. Let us sit together, as animal lovers - as I did with Syeeda Manbodh and Shanti Matthews and others so many years ago at Ms. Manbodh’s oasis - to discuss the way forward. Listen to the people who hold animal welfare at heart, not just the ones in it for the profits.

• Education is the way

forward. We are quickly moving away from illiteracy, but there are still a few who would cause us to strongly contend with this. A few such coming to mind are the man from Enmore who beat a tied dog, the youngers from Berbice who lit firecrackers and taped it shut in a female dog’s mouth, the Chinese national who chopped and killed a pregnant dog on her back last month. I truly believe that people do better when they know better.

Education is the key. Our young people need to be brought up with the proper influences. We need to educate them and guide them in the direction we want to see them go.

• Let us form groups to visit schools, Police stations, and other locations where our presence can make a difference in educating about animals. When people start being personally responsible for their own actions; when they start being empathetic and compassionate towards animals and each other; that is when animal welfare would really start to improve in this country. My services are always readily available

when it comes to education and animals.

• There should be strict penalties for animal abusers. No, not the usual slap on the wrist; not the usual one check from Policemen, and once they don’t find the perpetrator, they forget about the matter. Once the Police know the law, they can enforce it. Once they themselves are required to provide feedback and reports by their seniors, they would give these matters the importance they deserve. Once the gravity of animal cruelty is realised, people would think twice before hurting an innocent creature.

Abusers need to be held responsible for their actions. Animal abuse should be one of the most highly punishable crimes here in Guyana.

• Spaying and neutering here in Guyana really does cost an arm and a leg for a lot of persons, who are wise and have the desire to help, but just cannot financially afford to. Therefore, so many innocent animals are impacted. I commend organisations like Rosewood, Tails of Hope, GSPCA, and Animal Kingdom for cre-

ating the means of having an animal fixed so that animal would not continue to reproduce. But what about the smaller bodies, who are trying their utmost but just cannot afford it: Genevieve Beepat, Forever Hope Alive, and Varsha Ramlakhan, people who go above and beyond the call of duty? The old, the poor, and the homeless want to help, but due to the high cost of spaying and neutering, just cannot.

I do believe that, in the effort to end animal overpopulation, this is a cost that can be absorbed by the Government, or at least subsidised. We pay 14% VAT, we give 30% of our salaries, and undeserving businesses and foreigners are given so many exemptions. Surely, some of this can go towards ending overpopulation once and for all.

Madam First Lady, I implore you to open your heart to the cries of these helpless and voiceless creatures. They cannot help themselves, please do more. Allow us who actually want to help to help you to do more. God bless.

Kind regards, Naiad A

ment and distress over the insensitivity displayed through the use of these symbols for the purpose of packaging.

Mr Fried Chicken should be responsible and respectful as a member of the business community, and is hereby urged to extend a sincere and unambiguous apology to the Hindu community for this incident. Acknowledgment of the unintended offence caused will go a long way in rectifying this situation and reaffirming the values of unity and respect that Guyanese citizens hold dear.

Hinduism, like all other faiths practised in Guyana, deserves to be treated with reverence and dignity. The misappropriation of sacred symbols can be distressing to faithful individuals, and can disrupt social cohesion. Encouraging cultural sensitivity, and fostering an environment of understanding and empathy should be priorities for

all members of the community.

The Ethnic Relations Commission is humbly requested to investigate this matter, and provide necessary guidance for the appropriate course of action that promotes healing, unity, and the prevention of future incidents of this nature. The Commission’s intervention in this instance would serve as a reminder to all businesses to uphold ethical practices that reflect the diversity and richness of Guyanese society.

It is our hope that Mr Fried Chicken, in collaboration with the Ethnic Relations Commission, would resolve this issue promptly, allowing for an inclusive and respectful environment that celebrates all citizens while cultivating stronger interfaith relations.

Sincerely,

APNU+AFC members

Guyana will continue to champion...

In 2018, Guyana moved to the World Court after exhausting all means of negotiation with Venezuela and the failed good offices process between the two South American neighbours. Guyana is seeking a final and binding ruling on the October 3, 1899, Arbitral Award to settle the long-standing border controversy.

Having rejected both of Venezuela’s preliminary objections, the ICJ in April this year set April 8, 2024, as the time limit for the filing of a Counter-Memorial by Venezuela. Venezuela had initially refused to participate in the proceedings and had even challenged the court’s jurisdiction to hear the matter.

But on December 18, 2020,

the ICJ established that it has jurisdiction to hear the substantive case – something which Venezuela did not accept, hence its preliminary objections in June 2022.

In a move that delayed the substantive hearing of the border case, Venezuela had, in June 2022, filed preliminary objections claiming that the case is improperly before the court.

It argued that such a case should not have been brought by Guyana, but by the United Kingdom, the then Great Britain, which had signed the 1899 Arbitral Award with Venezuela to demarcate Guyana’s boundaries – Guyana then being one of Britain’s colonies, known as British Guiana at that time.

Guyana and Venezuela have both presented submissions on this matter before the World Court in November 2022. In April 2023, by 14 votes to one, the ICJ rejected Venezuela’s preliminary objection with respect to Guyana not being the proper party to ask the court to bring finality to the issue.

Guyana is, among other things, asking the ICJ to declare that the 1899 Arbitral Award is valid and binding upon Guyana and Venezuela and that the latter is internationally responsible for violations of Guyana’s sovereign rights and for all injuries suffered by Guyana as a consequence.

Friday’s Protocolary Meeting of the Permanent Council of the OAS at

FROM PAGE 3

its headquarters in Washington, DC, was convened to receive President Ali, who updated regional officials on Guyana’s unprecedented development.

In addition to the meeting session, brief discussions were also held with the OAS Secretary General, Luis Almagro, and the high-level team led by the Guyanese leader.

Accompanying President Ali were Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister, Hugh Todd; Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister, Oneidge Walrond; Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud; National Security Advisor, Captain Gerry Gouveia; and Guyana’s Ambassador to the USA, Samuel Hinds. (G-8)

Foundation

Test Questions

Friday’s answers

i) The fraction of girls = the whole – the fraction of boys = 8/8 – 3/8 = 5/8

ii) The total number of pupils

What do we know in terms of real numbers?

432 girls = 5/8 of the school, therefore 5/8 = 432

So, total number of pupils in school = 432/5 x 8 = 691.2 students, since 0.2 of a student is impossible round to the nearest whole number = 691 students

2)

(a) Ratio of purple to blue pencils: 1: 2

(b) 1 box contains 8 blue pencils

Therefore, 3 boxes will have 8x3 blue pencils altogether = 24 pencils

(c) If 1 blue pencil was replaced with 1 purple one, there would be 7 blue pencils in a box and 5 purple ones.

To find the number of boxes Soia must buy, divide the number of blue pencils she wants by the number of blue pencils found in 1 box: blue pencils ÷ 7 = 5 boxes

Find the perimeter and area of the shape below

Perimeter = the distance around a 2-D figure Perimeter = 6 + 6 +

In this fun and easy magic science experiment, we’re going to make a mustard packet act in mystical and seemingly magical ways using a little bit of science and a whole lot of fun.

Materials:

Mustard or other condiment

packet Small bowl

Two-litre soda bottle with cap

Water

Instructions:

Fill the small bowl with water.

Test the mustard packet to see if it floats. Keep testing packets until

To find the area of the shape below, first divide it into simple shapes, for example two 6cm x 6cm squares and a 6cm x 18cm rectangle

you find one that floats.

Place the mustard packet that floats into the two-litre bottle.

Fill the bottle all the way to the rim with water and tightly secure the cap.

The packet should be floating at the top of the bottle.

Squeeze the bottle firmly with both hands. The packet should sink.

How it works:

They are tiny air bubbles in the packet of mustard. When you squeeze the bottle, the air pressure in the bottle increases. The increased air pres-

sure compacts the air bubbles in the mustard packet and makes the packet more dense. This then causes the mustard packet to sink. When you release the bottle, the air pressure in the bottle lessens, causing the air bubbles in the packet to become less compacted and less dense which will allow the packet to float again.

Make this a science project: Try different types of condiment packets. Try different sized and shaped bottles. Try adding salt to the water. Try different temperatures of water. (sciencefun.org)

BY NICHOLAS GOODLY

There is a moment on the bridge, piles of clothes along the margin. The pile is behind you, the moment is you looking in the rearview. Somewhere, a clean white minivan, a family gathering fallen luggage. You are the margins. The moment is looking back at you. The bridge is between you and the moment you look in the rearview. It is only the bridge, it is in the shape of you, the bridge. The bridge is you, you a part of it, somewhere. The bridge is nothing, only the shape of it now.

It is behind you.

Source: Poetry (September 2023)

WORD SEARCH

2022 Audit Report handed over to Speaker of the National Assembly

Auditor General Deodat Sharma

on Friday presented the 2022 Audit Report to Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir, ahead of the September 30 statutory deadline.

This latest document is Sharma’s 19th report on the country’s finances.

“As this is the 19th report of the Audit Office under my tenure, I will now have issued more reports than former Auditor General Reginald P. Farnum, who had presented 14 reports and Anand Goolsaran who presented only 9 reports,” AG Sharma noted.

In previous reports, the Auditor General had cited varying issues such as overpayments – an issue which is recurring in the 2022 Audit Report.

Sharma told another news entity that for the first time this year, most of the overpayments were refunded. This, he said, never happened before and shows the respect that these public agencies have for the Audit Office.

Over the years, the Audit Office has been submitting its report by the statutory September 30 deadline following the close of the financial year.

According to Sharma, this is the third time in recent years that the report has been issued before the end of September. The last two reports for 2020 and 2021 were issued on September 19 and 20, respectively.

“This is in keeping with our mission statement of timely reporting of the results to the legislature and ultimately, the public,” the Auditor General stated.

In addition to the 2022 audit, three performance audits were handed over on

Friday. These were an assessment of the Education Ministry’s Hinterland School Feeding Programme, the Implementation of the International Health Regulations 2005, and a Review of the Ministry of Labour’s Occupational Safety and Health Inspection Process. The Audit Act mandates that the Auditor General carries out performance audits and to date, 16 performance audit reports have been presented.

Moreover, Sharma said on Friday that they have also issued audit reports for 102 Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs), six municipalities, and 69 statutory bodies. He added that the Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC), which had its accounts in arrears, now has its account audited up to 2021.

Meanwhile, Sharma noted that capacity-building has also been a key priority of the Audit Office, to strengthen the ability to

conduct and examine performance audits and reports, through its partnership with the Canadian Auditing and Accountability Foundation (CAAF).

As a result, 15 management and middle-management officers have participated in a train-the-

trainers programme facilitated by the Canadian Audit and Accountability Foundation (CAAF). When Parliament resumes in October, CAAF will be conducting another workshop with Members of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on “Asking Effective

Questions on Performance Audits”.

Additionally, a total of 17 officers have also benefitted from report writing training, in strengthening the capacity to ensure clarity and critical insights through the audit reports.

Importantly, another 23 officers from the Audit Office have attended training to develop the office’s capability to perform audits in the extractive industries in particular the oil and gas sector. Many Members of Parliament also benefitted from this training.

“This training has equipped us better to understanding the extractive industry and the role the Audit Office plays in conducting audits of the developing oil sector in Guyana… The Office recognise that continuous learning and development is crucial to the continued achievements of its mandate,” the Auditor General stated.

Meanwhile, Speaker Nadir commended the Auditor General’s office as an impactful and credible

voice in monitoring how the country’s resources are expended.

“We have a long way to go. With much more resources at our disposal, the work is going to explode exponentially,” the Speaker noted during the handing over of the 2022 Audit Report at the Parliament Office in Georgetown.

Also there to witness the handover was the Chairman of the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Jermaine Figueira, who also lauded the Audit Office for its timely delivery of these public fiscal reports. He expressed hope that the pace of work of the Committee can be fast-tracked to come in line with the annual reports produced by the Audit Office.

In the 2021 Auditor General report, the Audit Office noted that over 70 per cent of recommendations that were made the previous year were implemented by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government.

Auditor General Deodat Sharma handed over the 2022 Audit Report to Speaker of the National Assembly Manzoor Nadir, on Friday in the presence of various officials (DPI photo)

Fisherman charged with setting fire to TikToker’s home

Rules...

…to democracy

In the long struggle of mankind to rise out of a brutal past, which began in caves – bopping folks’ heads with spiked clubs to settle disputes!! - “Government of the people, by the people and for the people” might’ve arrived rather late on the scene. But when we get right down to it, democracy’s done all right, innit?! In our case, we don’t have to go as far back as the Stone Age, cause the chattel slaverythe foundation of our country - wasn’t much different in its brutal social relations. If you call treating human beings like cattle “social” relations!!

Anthony Budram, 33, a fisherman, appeared at the Sparendaam Magistrates’ Courts on Thursday to face a charge of arson over a fire that destroyed a popular Guyanese TikToker’s home.

He was charged with setting fire to a building contrary to Section 141 of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act Chapter 08:01. According to the charge, this Lot 21

Mosquito Hall, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara (ECD) resident allegedly set fire to the dwelling house of Kubram Ramlall, 49, and Goomattie Pitamber, aged 75, both of Lot 79 Mosquito Hall, Mahaica, on September 9.

This section of the Act stipulates that everyone who unlawfully and maliciously sets fire to any house shall be guilty of a felony and liable to

imprisonment for life.

The accused, who appeared before Magistrate Alisha George, was not required to enter a plea to the indictable charge and as such, he was remanded to prison until October 10.

That fire had tragically destroyed the residence of the well-known TikTok personality otherwise known as “Rakah”, along with the adjacent one-storey wooden

home of his mother Shirley Pitamber. The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has determined that that fire was an act of arson.

After that incident, the TikTok personality had taken to social media to express profound sadness over the loss of his home. He recounted seeing the alleged suspect

Well, yesterday was “International Day for Democracy” (IDD), and it behooves us to reflect on the state of our democracy. As the UN declared back in 2007, when it launched the commemoration: “International Day of Democracy provides an opportunity to review the state of democracy in the world. Democracy is as much a process as a goal, and only with the full participation of the international community can the ideal of democracy be made into a reality.”

We don’t have the space to reflect on the “world” - save to say that democracy looks pretty bleak right now in Haiti. Guyana’s democracy faces enough travails to fill a whole book - and they still ain’t settled!! And when you mull that over, you can’t help but conclude that the biggest challenge democracy faces in Guyana is the PNC! That’s right!

Even though the British finagled matters to oust the PPP – like changing First Past the Post to Proportional Representation - we could’ve still had a functional democracy if Burnham had accepted a coalition Government with the PPP. But he was anti-democratic to his very core, and refused to appreciate that “government by the people” meant their votes ought to be counted to select who’d govern on their behalf! So, he started rigging elections as far back as 1968. From then on, it was a case of “once dog start suck egg ‘e cyan stap!!” And Burnham went to the grave in 1985 not stopping!

And that brings us right up to March 2nd 2020, when the PNC went to the polls under Burnham’s protege, David Granger. He promptly decided he was going to follow in his master’s footsteps when he realized he’d lost!! And as the UN Declaration had prophesied, “only with the full participation of the international community can the ideal of democracy be made into a reality”. And they certainly did - the US, UK, EU, Caricom, Commonwealth, OAS, and practically the entire UN stood down Granger and the PNC!

But they haven’t given up yet…have they? Nope, they’re now protesting the PPP campaigning amongst African Guyanese for votes as “slave catching”! Not democracy!!

…for Yutes

approaching his residence with what appeared to be a container of liquid just before the fire erupted.

Shortly thereafter, his home was engulfed in flames, and the suspect was observed fleeing the scene. The Fire Service has reported that the incident occurred at 23:45h, with the two-storey wooden building having been occupied solely by Ramlall at the time it was intentionally set on fire. The flames subsequently spread to a nearby one-storey wooden house within the same premises and quickly consumed it.

This forced the mother of the TikTok personality and another occupant to seek alternative accommodation. Despite the swift response of fire tenders from the Mahaica Fire Station, the firefighters were unable to salvage the burning structures.

The theme this year for IDD is “Empowering the next generation.” Makes sense, doesn’t it?? The social world is constantly changing, and it’s always the new generation –the Yutes who’re gonna inherit it - who gotta ensure that the world serves their interests. And this means upholding democracy and democratic norms so that their voices are included in the decisions that impact them. So how are our Yutes doing on the democratic front right now??

And “right now” is an important qualifier, since, just 3 years ago, those Yutes witnessed the frontal attack on democratic norms that would’ve set us back decades politically. So, what’s the lesson for them?? First, they must accept that attacks on democracy ain’t something that only their parents and grandparents should worry about. There’s a clear and present danger to democracy from a PNC that just can’t accept free and fair elections.

Secondly, they must accept that democracy can’t be separated from human rights – which is what being human is all about; innit, Yutes?

…in International Relations Pressie’s in Washington setting straight the distortions a bunch of PNC partisans have been spreading about our dear Mudland. Mainly that the Govt’s creating an “apartheid state” here!! He met the US Black Caucus and spiked that whopper!!

Remanded: Anthony Budram

Kubram Ramlall

I wanted was my son” – dorm father cries as he recounts events of deadly fire

where the double door is…I kicked the door twice and the door flung open. I ran in with the fire extinguisher and try to get between the smoke… but at that time, it was useless. When the doors open, there was no students. The passageway was clear and there was smoke all over the place.” After calling to the girls; about 16 of them ran out from the same door he had broken,

along with the dorm mother. The Commission was told that the dorm mother handed over the keys and he forcibly opened another door on the opposite end of the building. Jerome fell to the ground when the door flung open, and more girls ran out of the building. Some who could not see were praying that they would be rescued.

“As I was on the ground, I could only see about 24

inches because there was smoke. I saw two females lying on the ground. I pulled them out…There was lots of heat and smoke. It was very dark and had a very terrible scent. It smelled very bad. There was a girl walking and praying saying ‘God, help me’ and I pushed her out of the building. I could hear the girls but couldn’t see them.”

TURN TO PAGE 10

By Rupa SeenaRaine

On May 21, the Mahdia Secondary School’s dormitory went up in flames and took the lives of 20 children, and on Friday, the dorm father recounted the moment he heard screams to rushing to the rescue of those who were trapped in the inferno.

Fighting tears, Steve Jerome took the stand as public hearings commenced before the Commission of Inquiry into the Mahdia tragedy in Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni), which claimed the lives of 19 girls and his five-year-old son, Adonijah Jerome.

Saving the lives of many girls who were confined by the grille and locked doors, the man recounted that he kept listening for his son’s voice – a sound that he never heard.

Under the guidance of Counsel to the Commission, Keoma Griffith, Jerome walked through the events leading up to and after the fire. Hailing from Micobie, he has been employed as the dormitory warden or dorm father at Mahdia Secondary boys’ dormitory since 2018.

Both dormitory buildings were located in the same compound. The male dormitory included five living quarters in the concrete one-flat building; the girl’s dormitory followed an almost identical layout.

Young Jerome attended Mahdia Nursery School and lived with his sister and mother at the school’s girls’ dormitory.

On that Sunday evening, the dorm father recalled that by 21:00h, the boys were in bed but went to sleep at about 23:00h. Minutes later, a noise was heard emanating from the female quarters, like a “loud trample” and screams.

Upon checking, a blaze was bellowing from the bathroom door, and without hesitation, he grabbed a fire extinguisher and rushed over. At the time, the house mother was trying to open the door from the inside.

“They were mainly screaming while some of them were calling for the house supervisor…When I looked, I saw the fire coming from under the door next to the bathroom area…I got really worried and run down to the middle of the building

“All

– says he pulled crawling daughter, other students out of burning building

Dorm father Steve Jerome (left) testifying before the Commission and Counsel Keoma Griffith

“All I wanted was my son” – dorm father...

cause all I wanted was my son,” the emotional father shared.

During the ordeal, there was a grille preventing one of the girls from coming out of the building. By then, persons on site managed to break a wall and rescue other victims.

By then, his daughter was calling and crawling out of the building. He also managed to pull her to safety. However, his mind was affixed that his little

son was still somewhere in the building, which was engulfed in flames. Little Adonijah was never seen nor heard.

“I was listening for my

son’s voice and I didn’t hear anything. At that point, there was no sound or anything from my son. I removed from the door and began to cry and scream be-

“At that time, neighbouring persons came and hit the grille to break it. It broke and one of the guys got in with half his body and began pulling girls out of the windows. The only girl that was conscious was the one I was talking to. The rest of the girls came out unconscious…They wanted to put her on the ground but I told them no, that put them in the dining hall.”

The Guyana Fire Service arrived but after a few minutes, they left the scene due to water shortage. Police officers and an ambulance were on the scene, and those who were rescued were transported to the hospital.

In the absence of the water tender, villagers formed a bucket brigade with the aim of putting out the blaze. The male dorm warden was with the Police, and noted, “At the time, I asked to see my son because I knew at that time, he wasn’t alive anymore.”

Medevac

Also presenting his testimony before the CoI was the Chief Pilot at Air Services Limited, Mohamed Yacoob Mazaharally Ally, who conducted medical evacuations that night.

On the night of the fire, he was the stationed at ASL facility at Mahdia airstrip, where personnel informed him that the GDF was rounding up pilots from the airstrip to respond to the tragedy.

“A GDF officer was on the phone and trying to get a night medevac, that there was a big fire and they wanted us to get the medevac out. I told him that the type of aircraft is a single engine and a single crew, which is not suited for night medevac operations…There is a high risk involved,” Ally recalled.

The pilot said in his career, he had never done a night evacuation with a single crew and that it required special permission from the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

“On the phone call, the GDF personnel said the President is requesting the night medevac. Lieutenant Colonel Mike Charles said he got special permission from the President…I said once it is granted, we will be on standby to help since it is of national importance.”

It was just after midnight when ASL staffers arrived at the hangar, configuring the aircraft for the evacuation. Mohamed said the airstrip was “uncontrollable” with people.

A Roraima Aircraft landed with Home Affairs

Minister Robeson Bennwho assisted with loading the ASL aircraft.

He told the CoI, “I finished my safety briefing. The injured was screaming for their parents. One nurse was trying to resuscitate a student…I could smell burnt flesh. It was dark so I couldn’t see.”

At 3:15h that morning, Mohamed was cleared for take-off for Ogle International Airport and landed at 4:15h.

“We were told after landing to head to the Roraima hangar. As soon as I land and shut the aircraft down, the President was first to come. We went to offload the students and the nurse was still trying to resuscitate the girls,” Ally said.

Assistance

On May 26, Steve Jerome travelled to Georgetown with his son’s remains until he was buried five days later at the Le Repentir Cemetery. All of the girls were taken back to their respective villages for burial, that is, Chenapau, Karisparu and Micobie.

Jerome told the Commission that the Government took care of all funeral expenses, including accommodation and meals for relatives when they were in the city.

When asked if they continue to receive assistance from the Government, he said they only received a cash lump sum.

The dorm father, when grilled, stated that during his time of employment at the facility, no inspections of the building were done by the Education Ministry or Local Government Ministry.

The only inspections that were done were for renovations by the Regional Democratic Council. Employees were also not trained for fire response prior to the fire.

He noted that grilles were placed on the dorms to prevent girls from escaping while also adding that there was no 24-hour water service to the facility.

Chief Pilot at Air Services Limited, Mohamed Yacoob Mazaharally Ally, conducted the medevac on the night of the Mahdia fire

Govt backs GRA’s no-objection of disputed US$214M cost oil claim – VP Jagdeo says arbitration available for any disagreements

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government is insisting that the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) is the body responsible for auditing the cost oil expenses of ExxonMobil and as such, is supporting its no-objection to the disputed US$214 million cost oil claim submitted by the United States oil major.

tended that the GRA has total oversight on auditing cost oil claims and should have the final say at a technical level.

“The Ministry directly engaged in a discussion with ExxonMobil on the US$214 million after the GRA had said this was the end of the matter… My position still stands, I will go with what

would be dealt with accordingly.

“If GRA says we’re getting it down to 11 or 3 [million USD], that’s what we will go with it. If they say it’s 214 [million USD] that’s what we will stick with and then we close the audit. And then everything, thereafter, goes to arbitration [if] we have a disagreement,” Jagdeo stated.

Previously, the Vice President had said that the US$214 million cost oil claim will not be allowed if Exxon cannot justify it.

prior to the year ended 2015.”

There is an additional sum of approximately US$400 million from 2016 to 2017, which it is believed will also come under the rubric of cost oil. The former APNU/AFC Government has received much criticism for agreeing to these costs with-

States (US)-based IHS and London-based Markit. Its data and information services business caters to industries such as automotive, energy, financial services, defence, and maritime.

The company is no stranger to Guyana’s oil sector, having published a num-

In 2019, British firm IHS Markit did an audit of ExxonMobil’s cost oil expenses racked up between 1999 and 2017 from its operations in Guyana and flagged some US$214.4 million disputed cost oil claims.

Following an audit on the cost oil claim, the GRA upheld the disputed US$214 million.

However, the Government had previously reported that this figure was further reduced, first to US$11 million and then subsequently to US$3 million.

But Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday explained that those reductions were arrived at when the Natural Resources Ministry engaged Exxon even after GRA had recommended closing the audit with the US$214 million disputed sum.

Nevertheless, Jagdeo con-

the GRA has. I said to [GRA Commissioner General Godfrey] Statia that you will deal with it directly, not the Ministry any longer – nothing. I want to make sure that the GRA deals with this matter. I’m very, very disappointed because that was a Ministry decision when all along we said that we must be guided by the technical people,” the Vice President told reporters at a press conference on Thursday.

However, later that evening, the Natural Resources Ministry issued a statement in which Minister Vickram Bharrat endorsed that GRA is the competent authority to lead all audits for expenses incurred by ExxonMobil Guyana Limited and other oil companies.

Consequently, Minister Bharrat said he stands by GRA’s no-objection to the US$214 million in disputed

costs flagged by IHS Markit in its audit of ExxonMobil’s US$1.7 billion in expenses incurred during the 18 years.

The missive detailed that the Ministry’s Petroleum Unit, which is assisting in the audit process, had engaged in an unauthorised examination of documents submitted by Exxon.

According to the statement, “Both the Vice President and Minister Bharrat were under the impression that the information submitted to them on subsequent reductions emanated from the GRA, which is not the case. The Minister wishes to state emphatically that upon learning of this development, corrective action was taken immediately and staff was instructed to cease such engagements and deliberations.”

But VP Jagdeo on Thursday maintained that the Ministry should not have even engaged Exxon on this matter. In fact, he said that based on information relayed to him, there was no discussion on the matter and that Exxon only sent in some proposals to the Ministry.

“But they shouldn’t have even entertained that,” the Vice President insisted, adding that any disagreement

The audit of cost oil claims is critical to ensuring that Guyana does not lose out on millions in oil revenues. ExxonMobil’s pre-contract costs were inherited by the current Government when it entered office in 2020. US$460 million in pre-contract costs were already written into the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA).

According to the contract, the pre-contract cost “shall include four hundred and sixty million, two hundred and thirty-seven hundred thousand and nine hundred and eighteen United States Dollars in respect of all such costs incurred under the 1999 Petroleum Agreement

out an audit being done.

The former coalition regime had contracted IHS Markit, at a cost of US$300,000 ($62.6 million) in 2019. The contract had to be extended in May of 2020 without cost, owing to the COVID-19 pandemic.

IHS Markit is the product of a 2016 merger between two companies, United

ber of write-ups and analyses on Guyana’s efforts to develop its capacity. This includes “Guyana’s deepwater areas will remain competitive, despite changes to fiscal terms (IHS Markit, 2018)” and “How activity in the Guyana mini basin is booming with five exciting discoveries since 2015 (IHS Markit, 2017)”. (G-8)

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

Natural Resources Ministry

ExxonMobil Guyana Office

MoH procures 3 new mammogram machines to boost breast cancer screening

– GPHC to introduce telepathology services by year-end

With Breast Cancer Awareness Month being observed in October, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony on Friday disclosed that three hospitals across the country will soon benefit from new mammogram machines to increase screening opportunities for Guyanese.

The Health Minister made this announcement during the launch

of Pinktober 2023, a collaborative initiative between the Health Ministry and Guyana Telephone & Telegraph Company (GTT), aimed towards fostering awareness and education around cancer.

Currently, the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) holds the only public mammogram machine in the country, which recorded about 1300

mammograms last year.

“We recognise that’s not enough because we need to have these machines strategically placed so that people can have access,” Dr Anthony noted.

As such, the Ministry has partnered with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), an inter-governmental organisation that offers technical support to several countries

in areas including radiation technology.

“They have promised to give us three mammogram machines and we have already looked at the sites. We have a site prepared in the New Amsterdam Hospital, one in Linden Hospital, and one in West Demerara Regional Hospital.

“I think adding three more mammogram machines is really going to be a game-changer where many more women would be able to come to the public sector and be able to get mammograms, free of cost,” the Health Minister added.

Telepathology

In another effort to boost healthcare provision within the country, Dr Anthony also related that the GPHC is set to initiate telepathology services by the end of this year.

Despite improvements in receiving biopsy results now in 12 days as opposed to three months, these telepathology services intend to slash this wait time even

Dr Frank Anthony

further.

“Right now, we’re finishing off the infrastructure works at the hospital and we have already purchased the equipment so, once that comes in, we can set them up. And we have sent a number of persons to Mount Sinai for training and they will come back and work there,” the Minister explained.

“When they do a biopsy, they’ll prepare it and take a high-resolution image of the biopsy, and then we can send that to any lab in the world. If our challenge is that we don’t have enough

pathologists in Guyana who can do this interpretation, now we can send it to other parts of the world where pathologists there can interpret it.”

The Ministry is working with New York-based Mount Sinai Health Systems on these services, which reportedly has some 900 pathologists within its pathology lab.

Screening guidelines

In continuing to strengthen the country’s approach to addressing breast cancer, Dr Anthony also shared that during Pinktober 2023, a set of screening guidelines are expected to be released. These will better inform Guyanese on when to screen, how often to screen, understand whether they’re at risk, and how to address the matter, if so.

Pinktober 2023 will see a series of activities aimed towards generating awareness around breast cancer and celebrating breast cancer survivors, with Friday’s launch being the start.

Health Minister

Atlantis rooftop restaurant opens at new West Central Mall at Leonora

of this month. Meanwhile, the restaurant’s culinary offerings are an enticing mix of Italian, Thai, Caribbean, Halaal, and vegetarian cuisines among others.

Atlantis Cuisine, a new rooftop restaurant, was officially opened to the public on Friday at the West Central Mall at Leonora, West Coast Demerara (WCD).

The restaurant, displaying an enchanting underwater theme, was introduced to a media engagement on Tuesday evening last which saw British High Commissioner Jane Miller among others in attendance.

A newcomer to the restaurant industry and the mall’s Managing Director, Bhabita Albert revealed that the restaurant’s theme takes inspiration from the mythical city of Atlantis, the fabled underwater realm often portrayed in cinematic lore.

“When we were looking for a themed restaurant,

which is, there is none in Guyana…the restaurants that are emerging are more

just being released, why not tie it in,” she said.

“We have really nice

chose a theme that stands out very well and is liked by all.”

“We are hoping that the same experiences that we leave the West Coast to go to Georgetown, we are hoping to have that here. Atlantis Cuisine is a fine dining restaurant… we have a few surprises for our guests when they come on Friday… here you can get cocktails that are not served anywhere else in Guyana…”, she emphasised.

The outdoor deck provides a mesmerising panorama of Leonora, a thriving community along the WCD.

cerned, it’s very affordable…. You want a time where you can dine in an atmosphere that is affordable, and that is what you get at Atlantis. Our prices are within the market range, and I am sure that we have everything on our menu that caters to any budget,” Albert related.

In a recent event, Kester Hudson, the President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), highlighted the need for more restaurant launches in Guyana.

He emphasised that as Guyana continues to grow, increased collaboration is crucial, and the GCCI is committed to supporting this endeavour.

rustic or more modern, but we wanted to be themed where you get the feel like under the sea. With Ariel

props and pieces to entice the little ones… we had many options, but I must say thanks to God that we

This restaurant proudly stands as a hallmark feature of the mall, poised for its grand unveiling at the end

‘Atlantis’ is not only a place to dine but also a venue for commemorating special occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries. It accommodates exclusive reservations. Moreover, the restaurant prides itself on offering prices that cater to every budget.

“When its price con-

Hudson stated, “The chamber continues to encourage and promote business collaborations. We aim to establish an incubator for incentives that enable our members to access resources, including information sharing.”

Teachers in Reg 2 & 3 benefit from robotics training workshop

earlier this year to improve literacy levels among learners countrywide.

This is in keeping with the Ministry’s mandate to ensure that every child is a fluent reader by Grade Four while advancing the use of technology.

Its three-tier approach provides an intensive fastpaced remedial intervention to fast-track the learners’ literacy skills as they begin at the basic level, move onto the intermediate level and culminate at the advanced level.

The first robotics training workshop for

Grade Four teachers at pilot schools in Regions Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) and Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) commenced on Tuesday and concluded on Friday.

Held in the auditorium of the National Centre for Educational Resource

Development (NCERD), this training saw the participation of teachers from 17 schools across the two regions. This initiative falls under efforts to enhance the Education Ministry’s Literacy and Robotics Programme whereby a number of teachers from pilot schools countrywide are un-

dergoing robotics training.

NCERD Robotics Programme Coordinator, Petal Kadir noted that the workshop is intended to build the capacity of teachers and enable them to become more familiarised with the robotics kit.

Participating teachers are expected to serve as resource guides in their re-

spective schools once the training has been completed.

Another workshop will be held for teachers in Regions Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) next week, once again at NCERD’s auditorium.

Meanwhile, workshops

for Regions Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) will be held in Lethem and Linden, respectively.

Through a collaboration between the National Department of Literacy and NCERD, the Literacy and Robotics Programme was launched in several schools

Within these levels, students exclusively learn reading, phonics, pronunciation and letter sounds, combined with a robotics component.

Thus far, the programme is being facilitated within Enterprise Primary School in Region Four along with Dem Amstel Primary School, Kawall Primary School, La Retraite Primary School and the Blankenburg Primary School in Region Three.

Regions Two and Three teachers participating in robotics training workshop

Scenes of the opening

West Central Mall Managing Director Bhabita Albert

The Atlantis Cuisine restaurant

$23M agro-processing facility commissioned at Charity

supports local farmers but also creates employment opportunities and stimulates economic growth in the region.

Mustapha, during brief remarks, expressed his enthusiasm for the facility, highlighting its potential to revolutionise the agricultural sector and drive sustainable development.

A$23.3 million state-ofthe-art agro-processing facility at Charity, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) was on Friday commissioned by Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha. The new facility will benefit over 300 persons including women, youths, and other stakeholders.

The facility boasts an impressive production capacity projected at 24,000 litres of cassareep and 3600 litres of sauces and seasonings per month. Equipped with mixers, blenders, stoves, stainless steel containers, chillers, and mechanisation, it offers 24-hour service to ensure efficient processing.

One of the facility's standout features is the solar dryer, which aids in the dehydration of carambola fruits and other commodities. This technology extends their shelf life and contributes to food security in the region.

The commissioning of this agro-processing facility marks a significant step

towards enhancing the value-added production of agricultural products. It not only

He emphasised the Government's commitment to providing ongoing support to farmers and stakeholders, including training programmes and market linkages.

Additionally, the Minister highlighted the positive impact of the facility on the local community. He stated that by the end of 2023, there will be 13 similar facilities across the country, contributing to the sector's expansion. The Minister urged agro-processors to fully utilise this facility to maximise its benefits.

He further highlighted the Government's significant investments in the Pomeroon communities, which will result in increased production. He assured that the agriculture sector will continue to modernise, benefiting all involved. The Government’s vision is to create a thriving sector that benefits both producers and the community.

In addition, the Permanent Secretary of the Agriculture Ministry, Delma Nedd, took the opportunity to motivate the women's group to fully utilise the fa-

cility.

She emphasised that the facility aims to boost production and enhance the value of fruits grown in the Pomeroon communities. Nedd also encouraged young people to actively participate in the facility.

Meanwhile, Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva highlighted the agricultural prominence of the region while noting that the facility will provide support to farmers and agro-processors, particularly due to the abundance of raw materials in the Pomeroon.

With this cutting-edge facility in operation, Region Two is poised to become a hub of agricultural innovation, driving economic growth and improving the livelihoods of farmers. The Minister of Agriculture's vision for a thriving agricultural sector is now closer to reality. (Raywattie Deonarine)

Govt distributes black giant chicken, farming equipment to Mashabo residents

In a significant step towards boosting the agriculture sector, the Government of Guyana through the Agriculture Ministry on Friday distributed black giant chickens, agricultural equipment, and seedlings to over 150 residents of Mashabo, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

The distribution was done in keeping with President Irfaan Ali’s promise to the residents a month ago during a visit to the village.

The initiative aims to support residents in their efforts to enhance productivity and contribute to the

The black giant chickens

country's food security. The black giant chickens, known for their high meat yield and disease resistance, will pro-

vide the residents with a valuable asset for poultry production.

Additionally, the distribution of agricultural equipment will equip farmers to streamline their farming operations and increase efficiency. Furthermore, the provision of seedlings will also enable them to diversify their agricultural practices and explore new avenues for growth.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha emphasised the Government's commitment to the agriculture

sector and its dedication to developing the community.

He explained that the Government's primary focus is to ensure development reaches all communities, including the hinterland areas while adding that, “Our focus is to distribute resources equally, so every community, regardless of location, can benefit from the same level of development.”

Mustapa emphasised that the Government is fully committed to collaborating with farmers to enhance and develop the agriculture

sector.

Meanwhile, the beneficiaries expressed their appreciation for the Government's support while stating their optimism about the opportunities these resources would provide in expanding their agricultural activities and improving their income.

As the agriculture sector continues to thrive, the Government remains committed to providing ongoing support and implementing initiatives that will further propel the growth and development of the sector.

The ceremonial cutting of the ribbon to officially commission the facility

Minister Zulfikar Mustapha addressing the gathering

Some of the products produced at the facility

Minister Mustapha handing over the agricultural equipment to the Toshao of Mashabo

Residents of Mashabo

GTT launches Pinktober 2023 to boost breast cancer awareness

The Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company

(GTT) on Friday kicked off its Pinktober 2023 activities at the Marriott Hotel, Georgetown, thereby commencing the monthlong awareness and education campaign that coincides with Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Guided by the theme “Many Hands, Caring Hearts,” Pinktober 2023 aims to mobilise civil society organisations, the public and private sectors, and the community at large to become more aware of breast cancer, its treatment, and the need for early screening.

“[The theme] reflects our understanding that the battle against cancer cannot be won by a single entity but by the synergy of countless organisations and dedicated individuals all working towards a shared sense of purpose,” Operations Manager at WeSolve CX, Diana Gittens stated.

“Together, we can ensure that every person touched by cancer receives the care, support and resources they need for prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and

survivorship.”

In 2018, Guyana recorded the highest rate of breast cancer in the Caribbean at a staggering 46.9 per cent, with a mortality rate of less than 1 per cent.

Civil society organisations, such as the Cancer Institute Guyana, have been making efforts to reduce these numbers, with representative Pameshwarie Seodat highlighting several initiatives they’ve undertaken.

“Between 2020 and

2023, our company, which houses the only External Beam Radiation Unit in Guyana, which is a non-invasive procedure in delivering radiation to tumours, has effectively treated 172 cases of breast cancer seen in patients,” Seodat explained.

“In 2022, we accommodated over 800 patients through the purposes of mammography and ultrasound screening. This feat was accomplished as a result of the synergy between our company, the many

partnerships in the business community, and our shared goals to heighten awareness and further accessible care,” she added.

In addition, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony noted that significant work is also being done on the public sector level. These include procuring and distributing more mammogram machines across the country, introducing telepathology services at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) and soon releasing

a set of screening guidelines.

In further advancing these efforts, GTT, the Ministry, and a number of other civil society organisations, are on a mission this Pinktober to raise at least $30 million to support cancer awareness, screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

Patrons can contribute by texting “DONATE” to 620-4848, where each text costs $500, or purchasing a Pinktober package available at gttpinktober.com.

Meanwhile, business owners can become sponsors by visiting the website and selecting a preferred sponsorship package.

The Pinktober 2023 roster of events include a Prayer Service and Tree Wrapping on October 1, Bartica Medical Outreach on October 8, Berbice Medical Outreach on October 15, A Night of Hope and Fashion on October 21, and a Walk/ Run and Health Fair on October 29, starting from Everest Cricket Ground at 6:00h.

“As we launch Pinktober again this year, remember, it’s not only about the events, about the funds, and about the awareness, although those are important parts. It’s about the lives we will touch, the hope we will ignite, and the lasting impact that we will create,” GTT’s Chief Operating Officer (COO), Eshwar Thakurdin posited.

Also present at Friday’s launch were a number of breast cancer survivors and representatives from the Giving Hope Foundation, The Periwinkle Club Inc, Guyana Cancer Society, Debra Shipley George Go Care Foundation and Beacon Foundation.

Wanted man nabbed with ganja at Providence Teachers, students blocked from entering Berbice school by protesting parents

Arrested: Ishmael Junior

A29-year-old man who was wanted by Police for theft was on Thursday arrested outside Lambada Sports Bar, at Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD), with 34 grams of cannabis in his possession.

Upon questioning, the man told the Police he intended to sell the cannabis to support his family.

Ishmael Junior of Bagotstown, EBD, was arrested by Police ranks on mobile patrol duties in the Providence Station district.

According to the Police, while patrolling along Providence’s main access road and in the vicinity of Lambada Sports Bar, they observed a man stand-

The ganja that was found in the suspect’s possession

ing near the bar and facing south.

“The ranks recognised him as someone whom the Police were looking for in relation to a larceny report. As such, the patrol vehicle stopped, and ranks approached him, identified themselves, and asked him to identify himself, which he did as Ishmael Junior,” a release from the Police stated.

One of the ranks then told the suspect that he was wanted by the Police in relation to an ongoing investigation.

Police conducted a search on his person and found the ganja in the left pocket of his pants. When cautioned by the Police, he blurted out: “Officer, I just buy an ounce weed fa $5000 because I is a chain smoker and I just decide fa sell a couple pack because I got me children dem fa look after.”

He was subsequently arrested and escorted to Providence Police Station where the cannabis was weighed and amounted to 34 grams. Investigations are continuing.

Members of McGowan Primary School’s Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) closed the school on Friday and stopped teachers from entering the building in protest over the state of the road.

According to the parents, the street leading to the school at Liverpool Village, Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), has been under repair for months.

“It is years we are suffering. We cannot get a good school road for our children. The road is very bad and they start doing it since July and we are not accepting this road because some of the children have to ride to school. This road is very small... What happened to in front here and what happened to there, we need it to be done,” one parent said.

Parents also complained of bat infestation at the

school.

“Schools just opened two weeks ago and look at their shoes. We need something to be done now and if not, we will lock down the school until somebody comes to talk to us.”

The parents vowed that they were not going to allow anyone to enter the building.

“This is another school year; we have been promised over and over that we are going to have a new road and there is nothing being done for us. Children are suffering at McGowan Primary School. We need proper facilities; the school needs to be repaired. No road, no school, we are not allowing the teachers to school to teach; we the PTA are not allowing them, it is overbearing for us,” another parent said.

Noting that there are other schools in the neighbourhood including Manchester

Primary and Winfred Gaskin Secondary, the parents pointed out that the roads leading to those schools are properly maintained.

Regional Executive Officer (REO) Narindra Persaud subsequently met with the aggrieved parents and committed to having the school’s road fully repaired by November 1.

The project is being undertaken by the Ministry of Public Works. Persaud explained that the stipulated time for the completion of the project is November 1, and the contractor has not gone beyond the time allotted to have the work completed.

The contractor has since indicated that the next phase is to apply bitumen to the road’s surface. Following a discussion with the REO and the PTA, that process is expected to be completed over the weekend.

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony, GTT COO Eshwar Thakurdin, Miss World Guyana 2023 Andrea King, GTT Communications Senior Manager Jasmin Harris and representatives from civil society organisations

The parents protesting on Friday

ERC launches investigation of meat being sold in “Hindu” bags

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) is probing reports of a restaurant serving meat in bags carrying the Hindu symbol or “Om”, which is contrary to the religion’s practices and has sparked outrage on social media.

The Commission said on Friday that it has taken note of the viral video and images in circulation.

“In this regard, the ERC will be investigating the matter thoroughly as an act of religious intolerance and will take the necessary course of action to remedy the situation,” the ERC outlined.

In the interim, the Commission called on the business entity to discontinue the use of the bags with Hindu emblem with immediate effect.

Consistent with Function No 6 of the ERC’s mandate to “Encourage and create respect for religious, cultural and other forms of diversity in a plural society” as outlined in Article 212D of the Constitution, the Commission said it will continue to work towards sensitising the public on cultural and religious practices of the various religions in our country, so as to increase religious tolerance and acceptance in Guyana.

The issue went viral on social media this week after a customer shared her disdain at the bags in question used to serve fried chicken. The food item was purchased from a business in Rose Hall, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne). Later, an employee of the establishment posted a video, justifying the actions on the part of the establishment. These actions were condemned by the Hindu community.

In fact, the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha said the incident has left members of the Hindu community “deeply offended and hurt”.

“We have learned that bags often used to distribute ‘prasadam’, a sacred offering in Hinduism, are being used to serve fried chicken by your restaurant. This bag bears the sacred Om and Trishul symbols. This action was seen as disrespectful to our religious beliefs,” the organisation asserted.

Acknowledging that the business might have had no intention of of-

CXC candidates reminded of established policy for queries, script reviews

– deadline remains September 22

The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC®) released preliminary May/June 2023 examination results to candidates on August 24.

The CXC in a release stated that following the release of results, schools, Ministries, and candidates are given the opportunity to query their results, since they understand that candidates may have questions about their grades. CXC has an established policy in place for candidates to query Ungraded or Absent results as well as to submit requests to have a script reviewed.

or through the Ministry of Education for private candidates.

In addition, candidates who attended an examination but received a result of “Absent”, may submit a Query to have this result investigated. Candidates are not required to pay for this service. Queries may be submitted through schools for inschool candidates or through the Ministry of Education for private candidates.

fending or disrespecting any religious group, it called upon them to desist immediately from using the bags for any meat or non-vegetarian purpose.

“We are willing to offer educational training to your staff about the importance of respecting various religious customs and sensitivities. By taking these steps, you can demonstrate your commitment to respecting the diverse beliefs of your customers and create an environment of inclusivity in your restaurant.”

GOGEC targets 40 schools for oil & gas training

Further, the exam body reminded that the deadline for submission of queries and review requests is September 22, 2023.

Once the query and review processes are completed, final results are issued to candidates via certificates.

A result of “Ungraded” indicates that a paper component (examination script or supporting document) is missing or was not submitted on behalf of a candidate. In the case of “Ungraded”, candidates may submit a Query to have this result investigated. Candidates are not required to pay for this service. Queries may be submitted through schools for in-school candidates

Further, those students who may have questions about a grade and would like to have a script reviewed must submit a request for a “Script Review” which is a paid service. The cost per subject review is US$30. Please note that a script review may result in an overall Grade either increasing or remaining the same. If the review results in an increase in an overall grade, the candidate will receive a refund of their review fee. Reviews must be submitted through schools for in-school candidates or through the Ministry of Education for private candidates.

CXC is working with schools and Local Registrars to ensure that any concerns raised regarding results of Ungraded or Absent and Script Reviews are addressed.

Missing man found floating in Dredge Creek in Essequibo

– family suspects foul play

The lifeless body of a 42-year-old man from Dredge Creek on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), who had been reported missing by his family, was discovered on Friday afternoon, floating in a nearby creek.

The man was identified as Wayne Hendricks, a farmer, and he was last seen by his family on Thursday afternoon.

family’s efforts proved futile.

It was only on Friday afternoon that the man’s sisterin-law was heading to the ‘falls’ in the area when she saw her brother’s body floating in the creek.

Minister Deodat Indar along with officials and students at the training exercise

The Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC) on Friday opened its complimentary training programme for secondary school students across Guyana.

In 2022, GOGEC trained over 1000 students in “Opportunities in the Oil and Gas Sector”. By year-end, students from 40 schools across the country will be trained.

On Friday, students from The Bishops’ High and St John’s College were the beneficiaries of this training programme, which was sponsored through the initiative of Damian Blackburn and the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT).

Friday’s session was conducted by the President of GOGEC, Manniram Prashad, along with Matthew

Scharf from ExxonMobil Guyana; Wilson Herrera from Guyana Logistics and Support Services (GLASS) and the Minister within the Public Works Ministry Deodat Indar, who gave an extensive overview from the discovery of oil in Guyana to present day.

In addition, Joel Bhagwandin and Dr Carlin Hanoman were part of the session.

A relative of the deceased shared with this publication that Hendricks was last seen on Thursday afternoon attending to his usual daily chores. He, however, reportedly left abruptly, informing his brother-in-law that he was heading to a nearby shop.

As time elapsed and he did not return home, the family grew increasingly concerned, sensing that something was amiss.

Despite conducting a search for Hendricks, the

“He had on his white jersey and black pants and his head was down in the water. At first, people thought that his head was off but his head was on, but it was down in the water. Piranha bite up his face and so”, the relative told Guyana Times.

The family believes that foul play may have been involved in the man’s death. They said while the man is a known alcoholic, they do not believe that he drowned.

“We suspect foul play, like someone may lashed him. The reason we think that is because when someone drowns, their body takes three days before it floats up. But in just a short time the body float up.”

They await further in-

Dead: Wayne Hendricks

formation from the Police to confirm the circumstances surrounding Hendricks’s tragic passing.

“He was a nice person. Even though he wasn’t married or he didn’t have kids, he was nice. He used to come and hug us up and tell us that he loved us. Everybody in the family is shocked to hear what happened to him”.

The fried chicken served in a bag with Hindu symbols

5 Zeelugt Squatting Area residents to be charged with electricity theft

Following a loss reduction exercise at Zeelugt Squatting Area, Eank Bank Essequibo (EBE), the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) removed several illegal connections, and five persons were arrested.

These five persons are expected to be charged by the Police as stipulated in the Electricity Sector Reform Act, the power company related in a statement on Friday.

GPL said it has noted with concern the blatant disrespect for life and property by persons who engage in

this unsafe and illegal practice, highlighting that the company continues to incur millions of dollars in revenue loss as a result of electricity theft.

To curb this dangerous practice, a team from GPL conducted a loss reduction exercise in Zeelugt Squatting Area on September 7 and 9, with support from the Guyana Police Force (GPF). This exercise resulted in the removal of illegal connections and five persons being arrested.

According to GPL, most recently on September 3, two teenagers were severe-

ly injured from electrical shocks when they came into contact with an illegal connection at Phoenix Park Sea Dam Squatting Area, West Bank Demerara (WBD).

The company revealed that the teenagers were returning home from the area when one of them came into contact with a live illegally connected cable. Fortunately, they were assisted by public-spirited persons who rushed them to the West Demerara Hospital, where they were treated.

Additionally, GPL recalled that in December 2022, a couple was electro-

HRTM Consulting Guyana joins forces with Excel Guyana to elevate payroll, HR & workforce solutions

HRTM Consulting (Guyana) Inc and Excel Guyana Inc announced a strategic partnership to revolutionise Human Capital Management (HCM) practices and Business Applications in Guyana.

This unprecedented collaboration brings together HRTM’s expertise in innovative HCM solutions and Custom Software Development with Excel’s three-decade-long legacy of consulting excellence. The primary focus of this partnership is to cater to the diverse needs of local and international clients while fostering robust economic growth and development within the country.

Both HRTM and Excel Guyana Inc are proud holders of Local Content Certificates, exemplifying their unwavering commitment to the local community. Emphasising the vital importance of prioritising local employment and human resource development in Guyana, this partnership takes a proactive stance in Guyana’s capacity building.

In the framework of this transformative collaboration, Excel will not only deploy HRTM’s HCM solu -

tion internally but also extend it as a service to its clients and strategic partners. This comprehensive suite of Human Capital Management software, encompassing recruiting, onboarding, workforce management, compensation, and project accounting, holds the power to revolutionise organisational HR processes, enrich employee experiences, and drive unmatched operational efficiency.

In return, HRTM Consulting will extend its expertise in technology and business applications to Excel Guyana Inc, supporting Guyanese companies in effectively running and managing their businesses. The combined efforts of both organisations aim to foster business growth, technological advancements, and economic prosperity for local companies.

“We are thrilled to partner with Excel Guyana Inc, an established leader in the Region, to revolutionise Human Capital Management and business applications in Guyana,” said Carlton Bharrat, CEO at HRTM Consulting IncGuyana. “Through this collaboration, we aim to em -

power organisations with our state-of-the-art HCM and other business solutions while contributing to the development of the local business ecosystem.”

Equally enthusiastic about this partnership, Kris Sammy, CEO at Excel Guyana Inc, remarked, “We have meticulously evaluated numerous international HCM platforms over recent months and are thrilled to have discovered a ‘homegrown’ solution explicitly tailored to Guyana’s taxation codes, complete with all the indispensable features required by local and international companies.”

The profound words of His Excellency, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, during the launch of Saipem’s Offshore Construction Facility hold significance in this context: “The private sector needs to come together, build synergy, build consortiums. Go after the opportunity so you give us something to fight with you for.” In line with this ethos, HRTM and Excel Guyana Inc are trailblazing the way forward.

cuted after stepping on illegal connections along an alleyway in the Success Squatting Area. Dead are 32-year-old Sorojanie Hansraj, who was a nurse at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), and her husband Prahalad Jagnarine, 39, a taxi driver.

The power company expressed that it intends to continue its efforts to ensure that persons stealing electricity are arrested, charged, and brought before the courts for this dangerous and illegal act.

The Electricity Sector Reform Act provides for the regular, efficient, coordinated and economical supply of electricity and for matters incidental thereto or connected therewith.

Under this Act, a person who generates, stores, transmits, transforms, distributes, furnishes, sells, resells, or otherwise supplies electricity to any other person, premises or area shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable upon summa-

ry conviction to a fine of $1M and imprisonment for six months.

The Act further stipulates that if the offence of which he/she is convicted continues after conviction, he/she shall be guilty of a further offence and liable to a fine of $50,000 for every day on which the offence is continued.

Added to this, it says that the subject Minister shall take such steps and employ such persons as may be necessary to forcibly or otherwise enter upon, seize, take possession and cease the operations of any works utilised by such person for the unauthorised generation, storage, transmission, transformation, distribution, furnishing, sale, resale or other supply of electricity.

Any person who lays down any electric line or apparatus or constructs any electrical installation outside the area or premises in or on which it is authorised to supply electricity by a licence or an exemption granted pursuant to this Act

shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable upon summary conviction to a fine of $500,000, according to the Electricity Reform Act.

And if the offence of which he/she is convicted is continued after conviction, he shall be guilty of a further offence and liable to a fine of thirty thousand dollars for every day on which the offence is continued.

The theft of electricity continues to cost GPL millions of dollars every year. Thousands of people, mostly in depressed communities and squatting areas, climb utility poles and attach wires to GPL’s network while many of them tamper with meters to decrease their actual energy consumption.

GPL has warned that placing energised wires on roadways, over trenches, dams and other places can cause electrocution and death of people and animals. As such, persons are being urged to report electricity theft on 225-5251 and 2262600.

Police seek public’s assistance to identify, locate suspected burglar

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) is seeking the public’s assistance to identify and locate a suspected burglar who broke into a house at Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown.

It is alleged that the suspect forcibly entered the home of a 26-yearold clerk attached to the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and stole two tablets, one HP laptop and one cell phone.

The incident occurred between Thursday evening into Friday morning.

“The suspect is an identifiable male, that was captured on CCTV. The Guyana Police Force is appealing to members of the public to help identify this suspect. All information provided to the Police will be strictly confidential,” the report stated.

Only last Monday, a sus-

pected thief was caught by residents of Eccles New Scheme, East Bank

Demerara (EBD), after allegedly breaking into a house under construction.

Left to right: Illegal connections that were removed during a loss reduction exercise at Zeelugt Squatting Area by GPL, as well as those who were hurt when they came into contact with these connections at Phoenix Park Sea Dam Squatting Area, WBD

The suspected bulgar who was caught on CCTV cameras

Govt rolls out cash grant to aid teachers in maintaining classrooms

Minister

The Education Ministry on Friday commenced the distribution of grants to a number of schools, allowing teachers to prepare and maintain their classrooms by purchasing the janitorial, office, and field supplies that they need.

“Over the years, teachers have complained to us bitterly that they have always had to spend their resources to get classrooms ready, whether it was using cardboard and making aids on the wall or buying bleach and toilet paper,”

distributed cash grants to teachers

Education Minister Priya Manickchand explained.

“Parents have also complained to us that they were being asked repeatedly to provide goods and other items to the classrooms for their children’s learning,” Manickchand added.

In an effort to alleviate this stress, this new initiative will see teachers on the coastline receiving $4000 per child and those on the hinterland receiving $5500 per child.

“So, for a classroom of 30 children on the coast-

Forest

land, the teacher is going to get $120,000 per term to buy whatever she wants to buy, in the lines of janitorial, field, and office,” Manickchand said.

“In the hinterland, it is going to be $5500 per child because things are more expensive – transportation costs and so on. And so, a class of 30 on the hinterland would be $165,000 that the teacher is getting for a term for the preparation of the classroom,” Manickchand said.

The Education Minister noted that the teachers will

Govt pathologist Dr Nehaul Singh injured in car accident

have a wide latitude over what they buy and are not necessarily expected to conform to the lists the Ministry provides.

“We know some of the generic things that are needed – cardboard, chalk, PlayDoh, markers, crayons, and cleaning supplies. But we also know that while we are providing lists of what can be bought, those are not exhaustive, because if we have innovative teachers – which is what we want – then I expect to see other things added to that list,” Manickchand said.

This direct cash grant to teachers came after a series of consultations with teachers and parents, as well as a number of lessons learned over previous experiences in which grants were distributed differently.

“Over the years, some regions gave a grant to schools, where the schools were allowed to go and buy whatever they thought they needed with the grant, and some regions bought in bulk for their various schools,” the Minister added.

“One, teachers complained that they got things

that they didn’t need [and] it wasn’t unique to the classroom and what classrooms need and two, because of the procurement processes that have to be engaged when buying in bulk, these goods took really, really long to get into classrooms.”

On Friday, Minister Manickchand initiated the rollout of these grants in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) at Den Amstel Nursery and Primary Schools, Windsor Forest Primary School and Good Fortuin Primary School.

Bodies of 2 men found after Cuyuni River mishap

Jarvis, a 36-year-old resident of Diamond, East Bank Demerara.

They asked Jarvis for a drop to their mining camp, which is located about 20 minutes from Kurutuku Village, and he consented to their request.

The boat was already transporting two passengers and 14 drums of fuel from Devil Hole Landing to San Martin Landing.

Government pathologist Dr Nehaul Singh is currently hospitalised following a car accident along the Essequibo Coast in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) on Thursday evening.

In addition, two members of his staff were also injured in the accident, which took place along the Huis’t Dieren Public Road. It is reported that the driver lost control of the vehicle, thus resulting in a collision with a utility pole.

Dr Singh, along with his staff members Shericka Razac, 27, and Montague Alison, 38, were travelling in motor car PJJ 6267,

which was being driven by Inspector of Police Alfred Madray.

They were returning to Georgetown when the accident occurred. According to Inspector Madray, he lost control of the vehicle while negotiating a turn.

Upon seeing this, concerned citizens promptly provided assistance, and they were transported to Suddie Public Hospital while remaining conscious. Subsequently, Dr Singh and his staff were airlifted to the city for further medical attention.

Currently, their conditions are stable.

The bodies of two men, who were reported missing on Tuesday following a boat mishap, were found on Thursday in the Upper Cuyuni River in the vicinity of Kurutuku Village, Region Seven.

Commander of the Division, Dion Moore indicated that Police received information that the bodies of the two persons previously suspected to have drowned had surfaced in the general area of the Cuyuni River where the incident occurred.

Police ranks were subsequently dispatched to the lo-

cation to retrieve the bodies.

The men were identified as Kevin Musa, a 44-yearold miner of Pomeroon, and Alvin Jordan, a 41-year-old father of three of Fellowship/ Den Amstel, West Coast Demerara.

Police said the boat mishap occurred at about 18:20h on Tuesday. Investigations revealed that Musa and six of his co-workers, including Jordan, were consuming alcohol at Kurutuku Village when they stopped a metal boat which was powered by a 75HP Yamaha engine and captained by Raul

With Musa and his co-workers onboard, the boat set off again on its journey. Police said about ten minutes into their journey, the boat captain was navigating a small rapid when the boat struck a rock, causing the vessel to take in water.

As a result, the occupants jumped out of the boat and swam to shore, leaving Musa and Jordan on a rock in the middle of the Cuyuni River.

Jordan and Musa were heard shouting for a few minutes before the shouting stopped.

An alarm was raised, and Police were notified. A search party was formed, which included Police and Army ranks. After an extensive search, the bodies were found on Thursday.

Dead: Alvin Jordan and Kevin Musa

Education Minister Priya Manickchand distributed cash grants to teachers at Den Amstel Nursery and Primary Schools

Education

Priya Manickchand

at Windsor

Primary School

Injured: Dr Nehaul Singh

The car that was involved in the accident

Around The World OIL NEWS

Ukraine troops retake village south of Bakhmut, military says

Oil gains for 3rd straight week on tight supply, China optimism

Oil prices hit a 10-month high on Friday and posted a third weekly gain as supply tightness spearheaded by Saudi Arabian production cuts combined with optimism around Chinese demand to lift crude.

Brent crude futures rose 23 cents, or 0.3%, to settle at US$93.93 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate futures was up 61 cents, or 0.7%, to close at US$90.77 a barrel. Both contracts traded at 10-month highs on Tuesday for the fifth consecutive session, and gained about 4% on a weekly basis.

Oil prices are also on track for their biggest quarterly increase since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in the first quarter of 2022.

Supply concerns continue to be a driving force for prices since Saudi Arabia and Russia this month announced an extension of their combined supply cuts of 1.3 million barrels per day to the end of this year, said Fiona Cincotta, an analyst at City Index.

Better-than-expected industrial output and retail sales data in China have also boosted oil prices this week, with the country's economic conditions considered crucial to oil demand for the rest of this year, Cincotta added.

Data on Friday showed Chinese oil refinery processing rose by nearly 20% from a year earlier as processors kept run rates high to capitalise on high global demand for oil products.

Expectations of moderating US oil output have also boosted prices in recent weeks, Third Bridge analyst Peter McNally said.

"Supply growth from the US appears to be limited as producers there have taken drilling activity down nearly 20% from last year's peak," McNally noted.

The US oil rig count rose by two this week to 515, the most since April, data from oilfield services firm Baker Hughes showed on Friday. Compared to a year ago, however, the oil rig count is down by 84 units, the data showed. (Reuters)

Apple to update iPhone 12 in France after concerns over radiation

Apple will update the iPhone 12 in France after regulators raised concerns over electromagnetic radiation emitted by the devices, according to the country’s Digital Minister and the firm.

The announcement came on Friday, after France on Tuesday ordered a halt to sales of the device, released in 2020, after finding that the model emitted more electromagnetic waves than permitted.

“Apple has assured me that it will implement an update for the iPhone 12 in the next few days,” said Digital Minister Jean-Noel Barrot in a statement to the AFP news agency.

The firm and Barrot insisted there was no danger to public health from the radiation.

“This is related to a specific testing protocol used by French regulators and

Ukraine said on Friday it had recaptured the devastated eastern village of Andriivka, setting the stage for further advances on the southern flank of Bakhmut, the city that fell into Russian hands in May after months of heavy fighting.

Kyiv's troops were securing their foothold in the area, while Russian forces suffered significant casualties and lost equipment, the Ukrainian General Staff said in a morning report. There was no immediate comment from Russia.

"In the course of assault operations, they seized Andriivka in Donetsk region," the General Staff said.

The village of Andriivka lies south of Bakhmut, the site of the fiercest and longest battle since the invasion by Russia in February last year. The General Staff also reported "partial success" near Klishchiivka, a village

Hurricane Lee heads towards New England and Canada

Hurricane Lee is heading north up the Atlantic and is expected to make landfall around Maine and Nova Scotia by this weekend.

Lee was a category one storm as of Friday morning, but the colder water temperatures of the Atlantic might weaken it.

Millions in coastal New England and parts of Canada are under storm warnings.

US authorities said it will be "large and dangerous".

The storm has sustained wind speeds of 80mph (128km/h) and is currently 395 miles south of Nantucket, Massachusetts, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC).

Lee, which is a couple of hundred miles north of Bermuda, has already whipped up strong winds and caused power outages throughout those islands.

Tropical storm conditions will begin in the southern New England area later on Friday.

not a safety concern,” Apple said in a statement, adding that the device complied with rules on emissions all around the world.

“We will issue a software update for users in France to accommodate the protocol used by French regulators.”

On Tuesday, Barrot gave the United States tech giant two weeks to issue an update to its phone, which was coming to the end of its career as a front-line Apple product.

He said the agency in charge of testing, the ANFR, would quickly assess the update and he would then decide whether to lift the ban on sales.

The World Health Organisation has said several studies have been conducted in the field and “no adverse health effects have been established as being caused by mobile phone use”. (Al Jazeera)

The NHC said Lee will still be "a large and dangerous cyclone" that will bring strong winds, heavy rain and coastal flooding.

Because of the storm's widening size, people will feel its impacts well beyond where the centre makes landfall.

"These conditions are likely to lead to downed trees and potential power outages," the NHC said on Friday morning.

The centre said swells generated by Lee "are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions" and could produce "localised urban and small stream flooding".

Maine Governor Janet Mills declared a state of emergency and US President Joe Biden ordered resources from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to be deployed, in anticipation of the storm.

The state is expecting 20ft (6m) waves and wind gusts up to 70mph. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Mexican Police officers convicted over 2021 migrant killings

Acourt in Mexico has convicted 11 ex-police officers of killing a group of migrants near the US border in 2021.

The bodies of 17 migrants were found in a burnt-out vehicle in the town of Camargo in Tamaulipas state.

Investigators say they were killed as part of a turf war between criminal gangs over control of migrant smuggling routes in the area.

Every year, thousands of people from Central America attempt to make the long journey to the US through Mexico.

A total of 19 bodies were found in the charred vehicle in Camargo in January 2021.

Sixteen were found to be from Guatemala and one from Honduras. The other two bodies were those of Mexican traffickers taking them to the border, investigators said.

also south of Bakhmut.

"Capturing and holding Andriivka - is our path to a breakthrough on the right flank of Bakhmut and the key to the success of the entire further offensive," said the Third Assault Brigade, which took part in the push.

Ukraine advanced cautiously in the area to mini-

mise losses from mines and "very active" Russian defences, brigade spokesman Oleksandr Borodin said.

"They defend their flanks very heavily here because they understand if (their) flank falls completely it will create direct problems to hold the city (Bakhmut) itself," he said.

"There is no Andriivka left per se... but as a place, as a square, it is an important square," he said in televised comments.

During its three-monthold counteroffensive, Ukraine has reported slow, steady progress against entrenched Russian positions, retaking a string of villages and advancing on the flanks of Bakhmut, but taking no major settlements. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Hundreds leave Dominican Republic ahead of Haiti border shutdown

Forensic tests showed that they were shot dead before being set alight.

Initially 12 officers faced murder charges, but one was convicted of abuse of power after co-operating with investigators.

Killings of migrants are not unusual in Mexico. In 2010, 72 were murdered in San Fernando, also in Tamaulipas state. And 49 dismembered bodies were found in Cadereyta in Nuevo León in 2012.

The Zetas cartel controls much of the region and is thought to target immigrants who try to cross it without paying the gang.

Municipal and state Police officers are often recruited by cartels - either by the offer of large sums or by threats - to turn a blind eye or even provide the cartels with safe passage. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Hundreds of Haitians returned from the Dominican Republic on Thursday after the Dominican President announced an imminent total border shutdown amid a conflict over the construction of a water channel from a shared river.

The border is set to close from Friday at 6 am (1000 GMT) and will last "as long as necessary," Dominican authorities said, with backing from their military and Police forces, though talks with the Haitian Government are set to continue.

Over a thousand people streamed through the border into Haiti at Ouanaminthe, near the canal, as authorities briefly opened the gates on Thursday afternoon for people getting deported or families looking to return.

Harold Estimable, director of the national migration office in Ouanaminthe, said some 250 to 300 Haitians had been arriving daily from the Dominican Republic in "very bad shape."

United Nations experts

warned earlier this week that Haitian women seeking pregnancy and postpartum medical care in the Dominican Republic were reportedly being arrested during check-ups and deported immediately without a chance to appeal.

The Caribbean country has tightened border security amid the worsening gang warfare in Haiti - where there are daily reports of kidnappings and sexual violence - deporting tens of thousands who left their country.

"We have been prepared for weeks, not only for this situation but also for a possible peace force in Haiti," said Dominican President Luis Abinader, adding if the Haitian Government could not control the construction, Santo Domingo could.

The Dominican Republic, which threatened to shut the border last week, argues construction works off the River Massacre violate a 1929 treaty.

Abinader is set to raise the issue on a visit to the United Nations next week.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Servicemen of Ukraine's 3rd Separate Assault Brigade prepare to conduct a reconnaissance mission, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, near Bakhmut, Ukraine, September 7, 2023

Police officers ride with detained Haitian nationals to a migration clearance centre to verify their papers as the Government is stepping up deportations, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, November 15, 2022

DAILY HOROSCOPES

Get into the swing of things and enjoy the moment. A social event or personal challenge will get your juices flowing. Don’t take anything for granted; see matters through from beginning to end.

(March 21-April 19)

If you spend time planning, you’ll avoid having to redo things. Time is on your side, and overseeing everything you want to see happen will ensure your success.

(April 20-May 20)

Work on some improvement projects. Don’t let temptation prevent you from completing your responsibilities. The less time you spend talking, the quicker you will finish what you set out to achieve.

(May 21-June 20)

Think before you act. Refuse to let trivial matters dominate you. Emotions will be difficult to control and can cost you if you get into an argument. Use common sense.

(June 21-July 22)

Keep an open mind, gather facts and say no to indulgence. Monitor your money and what things cost before you agree to participate in something time-consuming. Discuss your plans with loved ones.

(July 23-Aug. 22)

Try something new and exciting. A fun-filled day or change of scenery will stimulate your mind and help you decide what you want to do next. Socialize or devote some time to a project.

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Take the initiative; don’t wait for someone to contact you. Be direct, ask for what you want and continue until you are satisfied. Share your feelings and plans with a loved one.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

Stop procrastinating; make things happen. A change is overdue, and your attention, dedication and originality will help you stand out from the competition.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

If you revisit an idea, you’ll find something you can use to make your life easier. If you count on others for input, you’ll be disappointed. Rely on yourself.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Home is your sanctuary; make changes conducive to a more leisurely lifestyle. Use your imagination to come up with a cost-efficient plan. Don’t let anger get in your way.

Put more thought into money management. Do the legwork and negotiations needed to get what you want. Make unique plans with a loved one and look forward to an awesome evening.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

If you have to go overboard to impress a certain party, perhaps you are trying to attract the wrong person. Recognize when someone is taking advantage of you.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

Developments in international football…

Spanish players to continue women's national team boycott

- until FA undergoes more changes

Head Coach Shane Deitz wants West Indies Women to bring back ‘calypso cricket’

dia and society understand this and help us do so. A lot is at stake, and we must be aware."

The majority of Spain's World Cup-winning squad will continue their boycott of the national team until further changes are made. They are saying they do not yet "feel in a safe place".

Last month's win was overshadowed by the federation's president, Luis Rubiales, kissing forward player Jenni Hermoso after the final. The fallout eventually led to Rubiales' resignation. However, a total of 39 Spanish women's players says more needs to be done.

The Spanish Football Federation on Friday expressed commitment to

change being made "to restore the functioning of the entity". That came after a statement by the Spain players, which includes 21 of the 23 members of the World Cup-winning squad, read: "The changes that have occurred are not enough for the players to feel in a safe place, where women are respected, where there is a commitment to women's football, and where we can give our maximum performance.

"The players of the Spanish team are professionals, and what fills us most with pride is wearing the shirt of our team and

always leading our country to the highest positions. For this reason, we believe that it is time to fight to show that these situations and practices have no place in our football or in our society, and that the current structure needs changes.

"We do it so that the next generations can have a much more equal game, that we all deserve."

The Spanish Football Federation has said: "The Federation wants to reinforce its commitment to the world champions, for whom it feels enormous pride. It is essential that international organisations, the me-

Spain’s Head Coach Jorge Vilda, who was considered a close ally of Rubiales, was sacked last week. His successor Montse Tome was due to pick her first squad on Friday for upcoming Nations League matches against Sweden and Switzerland, but a news conference scheduled for 15:00 BST was postponed. Most of Vilda's coaching staff have resigned, and some 81 players have refused to play for Spain until Rubiales stepped down, which he did on Sunday. Tome, who was Vilda's assistant manager, has become the first woman to hold the position of Spain women's boss. The Spanish Government has assured players that changes will be made, and there will be a greater representation of women in the Federation.

Rubiales has been banned from going within 200m of Hermoso, who has said the kiss was not consensual, after the 33-yearold filed a legal complaint last week.

Appearing in court for the first time on Friday, Rubiales denied sexually assaulting Hermoso. (BBC Sport)

The 47-year-old Australian Shane Deitz, who was appointed West Indies Women’s Head Coach in July this year, believes the West Indies would have to play a more attacking brand of cricket to compete with the best teams in the world.

“The brand of cricket I want us to play is definitely the traditional West Indian ‘calypso’ brand of attacking, taking it to the opposition, and getting on the front foot. It’s the way I’ve always coached cricket around the world, and that’s not going to change here,” Deitz said in a press conference on Tuesday.

“It’s a style of play that I think is effective, so the players will definitely be getting the message that we’re here to win, and we’re going to win by playing attacking free-flowing cricket,” he added.

The former Vanuatu and Netherlands Women’s Head Coach believes the implemen-

Andy Murray misses gran's funeral to play for Great Britain in Davis Cup 2023

der his towel, before receiving another consoling round of applause from the crowd at Manchester's AO Arena.

The win came after the three-time Grand Slam champion showed his quality and experience to come through a tough test against Riedi, who was making his Davis Cup debut.

Cameron Norrie missed the chance to secure the win when he lost 7-5 6-4 to three-time major champion Stan Wawrinka later.

However, Dan Evans and Neal Skupski secured a second straight GB win by beating Swiss pair Stan Wawrinka and Dominic Stricker 6-3 6-3.

tation of this new philosophy would take time, but would be worth it in the end.

“It may take a little bit of time to really adjust to or (implement) a few skillset upgrades in players, but we’ll work towards that. So, they’ve got the ability to play that style of cricket, and I think that’s the most successful brand of cricket around the world,” he said.

“Australia play it at the moment in women’s cricket, and are consistently getting over 300 in ODIs and 160 to 180 in T20Is; so, we’re definitely going to follow that method and play that style of cricket, and play the Caribbean way,” added Deitz.

Deitz will get his first opportunity to see the team in a competitive outing when they embark on a tour of Australia for three ODIs and three T20Is from September 30-October 14. He says this will be a great opportunity to see some of the players firsthand against some worldclass opposition.

“I’ve only been here for the WCPL to see them live, so I think this tour to Australia will be a great opportunity for me to see the players firsthand against the world’s best and a team that has dominated women’s cricket around the world,” he said.

Atearful Andy Murray has dedicated a Davis Cup win to his grandmother Ellen, after revealing he missed her funeral because it was the same day as his match. Murray gave Great Britain a winning start against Switzerland by edging past Leandro Riedi 6-7 (7-9) 6-4 6-4.

Overcome with emotion, Murray said: "I'm sorry to my family I'm not able

to be there. Gran, this one is for you. I spoke to my dad about it, and he said, 'She'd want you to play'. He said, 'Make sure you win', so I did."

After clinching a hardfought win over 21-yearold Riedi, Murray told the crowd about the emotional strain he was playing under. Following the on-court interview, Murray sat on his chair with his head un-

"It's incredible to get through that one; it easily could have gone the other way," said Murray, who helped Britain win the Davis Cup in 2015. "It was ridiculous the shots he was pulling off, some amazing returning."

With Britain aiming for a place in November's eight-team knockout stage, Murray put his nation on the path to victory in the opening singles match of the group-stage tie on Friday.

British number one

Four nations - Britain, Australia, France and Switzerland - are playing in the group-stage event Manchester. They all play each other once in a round-robin format, with the top two countries going through to the knockout stage - known as the 'Final Eight' - in Malaga in November.

“This is a great test for us, and a way for me to see the reality of where we’re at, what we need to work on, and what areas we need to improve so we can formulate a long-term plan to work on players to get them up to that world class, elite level and challenge Australia, England and India, who have been challenging for World Cups,” Deitz added.

As for the nucleus of his team going forward, Deitz pointed to current skipper Hayley Matthews, former captain Stafanie Taylor, and all-rounder Chinelle Henry.

“Obviously we’ve got a few players who are near the top of the world rankings, with Hayley (Matthews) and Stafanie (Taylor). (Chinelle) Henry is also showing signs of being an elite level cricketer,” he said. (Sportsmax)

Spanish players to continue women's national team boycott until FA undergoes more changes

Windies Women’s Head Coach Shane Deitz

Andy Murray

BCB/Zamal Hussain Cricket Trust Fund…

24 youth cricketers receive over $1M in cricket gear

“When I was elected President of the Berbice Cricket Board in 2018, I made a commitment to work hard to make sure that every youth is given the equal opportunity to fulfill his/her talent on the field, in spite of poverty, lack of facility, and the club they play for.

“Over the years, my administration has worked very hard to fulfill this promise, and today another set of 24 players would benefit. We have assisted close to 1000 youth cricketers to be better cricketers and students in the classroom. We are very proud of this achievement, and we would continue to assist in the future.”

BCB President Hilbert Foster made these remarks as he addressed the presentation ceremony of the first ever Zamal Hussain Berbice Cricket Trust Fund. A total of 24 youth cricketers drawn from clubs across the county received personal gear from the Trust Fund. The players who received gear were Isaacs Charles, Nathaniel Amsterdam, Jonathan Daniels, Gautam Dhanraj, Gavin Kesten, Vishal Williams, Suraj Cyril, David Alfred, Christopher Baldeo, Keon Joseph, Adesh Hemraj, Joel Baldeo, Trevor Reynold,

Alese Moore, Keshain Narine, Melon Barnwell, Sohail Srikissoon, Rajesh Singh, Khemraj Sewnauth, Delroy Singh, Davindra Capel, and the lone female Saradha Sewnarine. They each receive a cricket ball, a pair of batting pads, and a pair of batting gloves.

In an emotional address to the gathering of young and eager cricketers, Foster admonished them to take advantage of the efforts of the BCB, and to use the gear for the purposes intended. He said the BCB is determined to uphold the legacy of Rohan Kanhai, Alvin Kallicharran, Basil Butcher and Roy Fredricks.

As President of the BCB, Foster expressed gratitude to Region 6 Vice Chairman Zamal Hussain for his support, and hailed him as a true friend of Berbice Cricket. Foster said Hussain has followed in the footsteps of Region 5 Vice Chairman Rion Peters and Member of Parliament Faizul Jaffarally in setting up trust funds to assist cricketers and clubs in the area.

He has urged the young cricketers to develop a culture of hard work, dedication, discipline, and devotion to the game; and has disclosed that before the year

Team Alanis Cycle Race set for Sunday, Sept 17

A delighted Kaleem has expressed gratitude to Foster for his assistance, while his mother Yasheena Persaud hailed the BCB President as a role model and mentor.

Vice Chairman Zamal Hussain has said that, as a proud Berbician, he is very pleased with the work of the BCB under the leadership of Foster, and wanted to be part of the developmental process.

He said he is happy to assist the youths, and has urged them to take proper care of the items and to be focused on their educational pursuits.

Team Alanis Cycling Club is hosting a 50-mile road race which is schedule to pedal off at 7:30hrs on Sunday, September 17 from Vlissengen Road just in front of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

It would head in a northerly direction towards the Kitty Roundabout, from whence it would turn east and proceed to Mahaica, ECD, before returning to Georgetown for the finish. Cyclists would make a left turn onto Vlissingen Road and finish on the opposite side of the starting point. Registration fee to enter is Gy$1,500.

Masters over-50, females, juveniles, and mountain bike riders (ONLY) will be turning back at Belfield,

East Coast Demerara. Prizes will be awarded to the top six finishers in the Open category, as well as the top three finishers in the junior, juvenile, masters over-50 years and mountain bike categories.

Prize structure for this event is as follows: Elite/

Open Category 1st - $20,000; 2nd - $16,000; 3rd - $14,000 4th - $12,000; 5th - $10,000 6th - $8,000.

Master's over-50 years: 1st -$12,000; 2nd - $10,000; 3rd -$8,000; Juniors: 1st$12,000; 2nd - $10,000; 3rd - $8,000.

Juveniles: 1st - $8,000; 2nd -$6,000; 3rd - $4,000.

Ladies: 1st - $8,000; 2nd -$6,000; 3rd - $4,000. Mountain Bike: 1st$8,000; 2nd - $6,000; 3rd$4,000.

Youth cricketers would also benefit from personal development clinics, coaching manuals, youth information booklets, and coaching

after

sessions involving 20 parttime coaches attached to the BCB/Government of Guyana programme.

gear 2023 ends, another 100 youth players would receive about eight million dollars’ worth of gear, while clubs would receive $1 million worth of red cricket balls.

Meanwhile, Foster fulfilled a promise he made to 13-year-old Fardeen Kaleem of the Cotton Tree Cricket Club, whom he met on a recent visit to the West Berbice Cricket Academy and read-

ily agreed to assist to fulfill his dream of becoming a professional cricketer. With the support of former national player Sheik Mohamed, Foster presented one hundred thousand dollars’ worth of gear to Kaleem. The items received included a bat, batting pads, batting gloves, helmet, and protective gear.

Hussain also said the People Progressive Party Government is investing heavily in the development of sports in Berbice, and he has pledged his continued support to the BCB in the future. The players were drawn from the following clubs: Guymine, Mt. Sinai, Edinburgh, Rose Hall Canje, Tucber Park, Port Mourant, Cotton Tree, Bath, Bush Lot United, Scottsburg, Upper Corentyne, RHTY&SC, Albion, and Berbice River.

Poonai's Pharmacy renews cricket sponsorship for RHTY&SC U-11 and U-13 teams

The leading pharmacy in Berbice, Poonai's Pharmacy of Rose Hall Town, Corentyne, has renewed its sponsorship of the Under-11 and Under-13 cricket teams of Guyana's leading youth and sports organization, the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club. This was done at the Pharmacy’s office at Public Road in Independence Avenue, Rose Hall Town.

Management of this popular Pharmacy have been long-time supporters of the club and its numerous activities before officially coming on board as the official sponsors of the teams.

Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster, who is also president of the Berbice Cricket Board, has said the pharmacy’s relationship with the Under-13 team has been very successful, while the Under-11 team was formed this year in response to the BCB’s developmental programme.

The BCB has major plans to hold an Under-9 tournament in 2024, and Foster has said that a team would shortly be formed. The current Under-13 team is led by national player Tameshwar Deonandand, while Leon Reddi is his deputy. The Under-11 team is been led by Darvesh Narine.

RHTY&SC cricket officials Robby Kissoonlall, Tyron Pottaya and Keith Hicks are responsible for the team. The coaches attached to the youths are head coach Winston Smith, Ryan Kissoonlall and Ryan Algu.

Foster, in expressing gratitude to the Managing Director of Poonai’s Pharmacy for his continued support of

the team, noted that Poonai’s Pharmacy also supports numerous programmes under the club’s theme of charity, education, community development, awards, Christmas Village and medical, among other themes.

Under sponsorship of the Poonai’s Pharmacy, the Rose Hall Town Poonai Pharmacy Under-23 team has won two Berbice championships and has twice been runner-up. The team has produced a total of three national players - Reddi, Deonandand and promising fast bowler Raffel McKenzie. A total of nine others has also represented Berbice at the inter-county level.

Cricket Manager Robby Kissoonlall has said the two teams were nurseries of the RHTY&SC cricket system, which produces cricketers for the under-15, under-17 and under- 19 levels. The RHTY&SC, he proudly stated, has a very high standard to uphold, with over 100 major titles in its cupboard while it has, since 1995, produced over 120 players for Berbice, Guyana and the West Indies combined. Among them

are Asad Fudadin, Royston Crandon, Esan Crandon, Shemaine Campbelle, Erva Giddings, Shabika Gajnabi, Sheneta Grimmond, Kevin Sinclair, Junior Sinclair, Sylus Tyndall, Kevlon Anderson, Dominic Rikhi, Askay Homraj, and Delbert Hicks.

In 2023, the club produced 15 national players at all levels, while six of its members are currently playing in the male and female tournaments. The teams have also successfully completed a total of 34 self-developmental programmes under the sponsorship, and with the guidance of management and other RHTY&SC teams.

The programmes include feeding the needy, food hampers for families, tributes to firemen, tributes to teachers, cricket academy, summer camp, and assistance to schools.

The Sponsor, Mr Poonai, has said he is delighted to be associated with an organization that has impacted thousands of people’s lives. He noted that his business is being well promoted by the

RHTY&SC and he is very proud of the teams’ achievements over the years.

Youth cricketers posing with Zamal Hussain and BCB officials

presentation of the

Cycling action returns this weekend

Leannae Bhigroop handing over the sponsorship to Tameshwar Deonandand in the presence of her father and RHTY&SC members

GAW, TKR set to battle tonight at Providence

- Warriors wanted to do something different, says Tahir

defeat, Captain Imran Tahir said the Warriors wanted to do something different in batting first. “We wanted to do something different. We wanted to see what we can do different if put into a situation bowling second, something to learn. I hope that we learn from our mistakes,” he said.

“I do not want to lose. Kings played well, conditions were in their favour, and the ball was coming out nicely, and it was difficult for our batters. I just think

Riders will battle in a top-ofthe- table clash in the 2023 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League. This exciting fixture will bowl off today at 19:00h Eastern Caribbean Time at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence.

Warriors are fresh off their first defeat this season: a seven-wicket loss to St Lucia Kings. The TKR are fresh off a seven-wicket win against St Lucia Kings in their last game in Trinidad.

A blockbuster contest is

anticipated, especially since both teams have 13 points and occupy the two top positions on the points table.

After the Warriors’ first

we are preparing for our next game, and we wanted to do something different.

“We were 10-20 runs short when you look at the

conditions batting second. Other than that, I was very pleased the guys came and played their role. You will always be sad when you are losing the game, but I think we need to learn from what happen against St Lucia Kings,” Tahir explained.

The Warriors skipper highlighted that every game is important for the Warriors, and the match against Kings was not an experiment.

“Every game is important, even today game was

important, as we are going to play TKR. It is not the experiment and just sit back and say if you lose you lose. It is just something we wanted to achieve.”

Before the Warriors game today, Jamaica Tallawahs will play St Kitts and Nevis Patriots from 10:00h at Providence on a double-header Saturday.

‘Special feeling’ as Amazon Warriors meet, interact with fans

The Guyana Amazon Warriors were out and about on their day-off on Friday, interacting with fans at the Giftland and Amazonia Malls on the East Coast and East Bank of Demerara respectively as part of an ExxonMobil- organized interactive event. Each mall was a hive of activity, with hundreds of fans flocking the venue to get a glimpse of their favourite players. Amazon Warriors fans were also able to win merchandise and tickets while getting photo ops and autographs.

When Guyana Times Sport caught up with all-rounder Keemo Paul

at the Amazonia Mall, the Guyanese cricketer described the fans’ overwhelming response as a special feeling.

“Well, it’s a special feeling, you know. It’s always good to come home; we always get the support in Guyana. And to come and interact with the fans is a special feeling also. It’s good to see that people are enthusiastic, people are supporting and going crazy about the Amazon Warriors, which is good,” Paul shared. One of the outstanding Warriors, Paul added, “So, we just want to continue making them proud; and, hopefully, we can win this ti-

tle for the fans.”

Paul, in going on to share how motivating the fans’ belief in the team can be for the players, declared, “It’s quite humbling, to be honest, and it plays a big part. It goes a long way in

motivating you, as you said.

The people are believing in you, the people are trusting in you, and people are supporting you 1000 per cent, it gives you that extra push and that good feeling to go out there and do well for

them.”

ExxonMobil’s Community Relations Advisor Lasawhna Prescott was impressed with the response to Friday’s activity, which she deemed a success.

“We thought that it would be fitting to give the public an opportunity to interact with the players; they’ve been cheering them on all this time. This is our year, so we really wanted to create that space where they could come, interact with them, get a chance to play games, have some engagement, learn about the different personalities that we have on the team, and of course get a chance to learn

about ExxonMobil too,” Prescott told Guyana Times Sport.

She also said, “I think that the crowd had a really good time. We believe that the love was felt, and coming from the feedback from the Guyana Amazon Warriors, I think that they had a splendid time. So, I feel like we did an awesome job.”

The Guyana Amazon Warriors will be back in action today, Saturday September 16th, against the Trinbago Knight Riders from 19:00hrs at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence, East bank Demerara (EBD) (Jemima Holmes)

The Guyana Amazon Warriors and Trinbago Knight

Imran Tahir will be aiming to run through TKR

Keemo Paul removed Nicholas Pooran in the last GAW vs TKR game

GAW fans will be roaring for the Warriors nation

TKR fans have already touched down in Guyana for the Curry Derby

Scenes from the ExxonMobil-organized meet-and-greet of the Guyana Amazon Warriors held at the Amazonia Mall