Guyana Times - Friday, January 19, 2024.pdf by Gytimes

“You have changed his life for the better” – mom of boy who received cleft lip surgery P14 Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 5616

THE BEACON OF TRUTH FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024

“They’re hopelessly misguided” – Jagdeo on efforts to block US EXIM Bank's funding for gas-to-energy project Page 3

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Better quality of degree programmes needed at UG – VP P12

Fisherman admits to killing US- P16 based Guyanese

School violence

A group of students from Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), along with three teachers, presented an education APP to Cabinet on Thursday. After the presentation, the students and teachers had lunch with President Dr Irfaan Ali and Education Minister Priya Manickchand, along with other members of the Cabinet (Photos by Education Minister Priya Manickchand)

After over 2 years on the run

Man wanted for Linden shallow grave murder caught in Suriname Riprap sea CANU seized defence $461M worth washes of narcotics away, exposing in 2023 Corentyne Coast

See story on page13

Nabbed in Suriname: Shaquawn Alleyne, known as "Izwe Boss"

Page 9

…Govt not getting value for money – community activist

Guyana “will have to have a relook at P2 our Juvenile Offenders Bill” – Minister on addressing spike Public urged P11 to use GPHC Complaints Office on issues of service delivery

Dead: Shonnette Dover

Husband, P13 wife arrested with ecstasy, cocaine & ganja in home

Page 10

…almost 800kg of cannabis seized from Region 6

GDF to acquire 4 new helicopters – VP …says $42.2B GDF allocation to boost Guyana’s “defensive capacity” Page 7

Over 170 persons benefit from small business grants in Region 2 P15

2 NEWS

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

School violence

Guyana “will have to have a relook at our Juvenile Offenders Bill” – Minister on addressing spike E ducation Minister Priya Manickchand has signalled that Guyana’s Juvenile Offenders Act may have to be reviewed in an effort to find a balance between providing an education for each child and addressing the hike in violence in schools. Appearing on the “Livewire” programme on Thursday, the Education Minister stressed that the issue of violence intensifying in schools is one with which the authorities continue to struggle. She declared there is a strong stance in schools against bullying, both physically and emotionally, and matters of bullying are thoroughly investigated; and she disclosed, “We have decided that, in walking the fine line of trying to educate each child, we can’t let any single child disrupt an entire school, or harm other children, hurt or bully them. A full investigation or inquiry is usually taken, and we may have to suspend and expel in those circumstances. “We’re trying very hard to make sure that we have sessions with all the students…and the country will have to have a relook at our Juvenile Offenders Bill,” she

Education Minister Priya Manickchand

expressed. The Education Minister said the former Government had dissolved the New Opportunity Corps (NOC), a facility for juvenile offenders, in which they were given a chance to complete their education. With this facility no longer being functional, the only option is to expel such students; but this, she said, is not a constructive solution. “At this point, all we could do is expel without any options for further education, and that is not the most desirable place to be. So, the country has to look back at how we’re going to

deal with what is clearly a problem. It is not a problem here in Guyana alone, but this is something most countries around the world face. We also have to look in the homes (at) what we say to our children,” she explained. Another issue which has attracted attention from the MoE is lateness and absenteeism. The Minister said efforts have been made on the part of Government, through the breakfast programme, to make it easier for children to show up at school. Indicating that neither lateness nor absenteeism is a fault of the MoE, Manickchand opined that these situations must be looked into at the level of the household. “Those kids are being offered breakfast, all they (parents/guardians) had to do was get up and make sure that they put on their clothes, comb their hair and send them to school. What is the home’s duty and responsibility and role in building out a Guyana where all our children have an opportunity and access to education? There has to be a careful examination of that also,” she reasoned. Following a spate of violence in schools last year,

in which were involved students, teachers and parents, the MoE had declared that it would take all appropriate actions to ensure that all teachers continue to work in a safe and secure environ-

ment. Such actions include prohibiting violent parents or guardians from having access to school premises; transferring out of school any learner whose parents commit acts of violence on

any teacher; or any other sanction deemed necessary. The Police or any other institution or authority would also be encouraged to take whatever action the law prescribes. (G12)

Berbician to be sentenced for killing father of 1

orty-year-old Kareem Charles of Bennet Dam, Rosignol, West Coast Berbice is now awaiting sentencing after admitting to murdering Bennet Dam resident Arshad Ally, a 24-year-old father of one, on March 1, 2019 at Rosignol. At his arraignment on Tuesday before Justice Jo-Ann Barlow at the Berbice High Court in New Amsterdam, Charles pleaded guilty to murder, and Justice Barlow deferred his sentencing to January 30, in order to hear probation and other social impact reports. Charles is being represented by Attorney Kevin Morgan while the State is being represented by State Counsel Muntaz Ali. On March 1, 2019,

Confessed killer Kareem Charles

Murdered: Arshad Ally

at Rosignol, West Coast Berbice, Ally was on his way to see his newborn baby at the New Amsterdam Hospital when Charles hit in the head with a metal pipe in an alleged act of revenge. Ally, who with his fam-

ily had moved to Bennet Dam about two months prior to his demise, died from shock and haemorrhage due to blunt trauma to the head. Ally and his wife would have celebrated their first wedding anniversary in April 2019. (G1)

NEWS

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

BRIDGE The Demerara OPENINGS Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, January 19 – No retraction and Saturday, January 20 – 00:30h-02:00h. The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Friday, January 19 – 10:45h-12:15h and Saturday, January 20 – 12:00h-13:30h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Light to thundery showers are expected in the morning and early-afternoon hours followed by sunshine in the late afternoon, with clear to partly cloudy skies at night. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius. Winds: East North-Easterly to Easterly between 2.23 metres and 5.36 metres. High Tide: 10:58h and 23:39h reaching maximum heights of 2.32 metres and 2.19 metres. Low Tide: 17:06h reaching a minimum height of 0.91 metre.

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“They’re hopelessly misguided” – Jagdeo on efforts to block US EXIM Bank’s funding for gas-to-energy project

ice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has said that international lawyer Melinda Janki, is “hopelessly misguided” in her efforts to block funding from the United States ExportImport (US EXIM) Bank for Government’s model Gasto-Energy (GtE) project. In April last year, it was announced that Guyana had applied for a US$646 million loan from the US Exim Bank to finance the Gas-to-Energy project, which includes the construction of an Integrated Natural Gas Liquid (NGL) plant and a 300-megawatt (MW) combined cycle power plant at Wales, West Bank Demerara (WBD) utilising natural gas from the country’s offshore operations. That loan is still be-

ing processed by the bank, and Janki, on behalf of Elizabeth Deane-Hughes and Vanda Radzik, wrote the Bank on January 12, 2024, urging that financial institution to withhold funding for the project. In the letter, the lawyer informed President and Chair of the US EXIM Bank Board of Directors, Reta Jo Lewis, of a ruling by the Guyana High Court that the Environmental Protection Agency’s decision to grant the permit to Esso Exploration & Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) - ExxonMobil’s local affiliate - for the project was “contrary to law and was improper.” As such, the lawyer asked the EXIM Bank to “respect the rule of law in Guyana” and “not provide funding for any project which is based on a decision that is ‘contrary to law’.” On Thursday, Jagdeo was asked whether Government is concerned that this move would delay the processing of the loan. However, he responded, “They’re hopelessly misguided” in their efforts to attempt to block the funding. “They don’t care that this project will deliver cheaper electricity to our business community and to all of our citizens, that they’d have to pay half of what they’re paying now,

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

which could start as early as next year,” the Vice President posited. While the US EXIM Bank is yet to approve the loan, Jagdeo is confident that this action will not impact Guyana getting the funding.

“The EXIM Bank is very much aware of what is going on here in Guyana. They have technical people who follow every single thing what’s going on. They can discern serious inter-

ests and serious concerns from a propagandistic nature or a doctrinaire nature; and in this case, that’s what is happening… So, I doubt it’s going to have any impact on EXIM Bank and the provision of the loan,” he said. “Now, the Bank needs to satisfy itself, which it is doing through its own due diligence process, that the project is feasible, because they’re financing it, and that it’s environmentally sound; and they’re doing that on their own. I believe that at the end of that exercise before they go to the board, that they would find it positive on both counts - independent of what the loonies say,” the VP stated. Jagdeo had previously disclosed that Government can use bridge financing to get the Gas-to-Energy project underway until that EXIM Bank loan comes onstream. “From what I gather, the loan can fund retroactive expenditure. So, if you have bridge financing, then

you can go back and clear it easily, once the loan comes on stream,” the VP had noted in October 2023. Earlier this week, it was announced that Government has this year set aside a whopping $80 billion to advance the Gasto-Energy project and its associated infrastructure, including transmission and distribution upgrades to offtake the power. Thus far, the marine offloading facility has been completed, and 26 kilometres (km) of onshore pipelines have been installed. Once completed, the project would allow Guyanese to benefit from 50 per cent reduced electricity costs. The scope of Guyana’s gas-to-energy project consists of the construction of 225 kilometres of pipeline from the Liza field in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, where Exxon and its partners are currently producing oil. It features approximately 200 kilometres of a subsea pipeline offshore that will run from Liza Destiny and Liza Unity floating, production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) vessels in the Stabroek Block to the shore. Upon landing on the West Coast Demerara shore, the pipeline would continue for approximately 25 kilometres to the NGL plant at Wales, West Bank Demerara. In last year’s national budget, the project received a $43.3 billion allocation in addition to the $24.6 billion injected into the start-up of the transformational project. (G8)

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024

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

Deteriorating situation with indiscipline in schools

ducation Minister, Priya Manickchand has said that there are some considerations for reviewing Guyana’s Juvenile Offenders Act, as the ministry battles the issue of providing an education while addressing the hike of violence in schools. To quote the ministry: “We have decided that, in walking the fine line of trying to educate each child, we can’t let any single child disrupt an entire school or harm other children, hurt or bully them. A full investigation or inquiry is usually taken and we may have to suspend and expel in those circumstances. We’re trying very hard to make sure that we have sessions with all the students…and the country will have to have a relook at our Juvenile Offenders Bill.” Adults in families are often to be blamed for the moral turpitude of the children under their care, and if inculcating false values into children is an instance of abuse, then many adults are guilty of both abuse and the misdemeanors that the children under their care commit. For instance, some children are encouraged by the adults in their lives to covet and steal the possessions of others. We will take the privilege of quoting some passages from an enlightening chronicle of times past, documented in an autobiography entitled ‘A Goodly Heritage’ and written by Elma Seymour, wife of A.J. Seymour, renowned Guyanese writer. (In the absence of their mother, who was visiting her elder daughter in the USA), Mrs Seymour related of their caregiver, “Aunt Car was truly a second mother to us, and papa left many of our problems in her hands. She was always helpful and kind. Besides, we all had to be very polite, well-mannered, and obedient; and no loose-talking or (loose) jesting was allowed in our home. “Aunt Car was always one for encouraging the members of the family, especially those who were married and had started to raise a family, to establish the ‘Family Altar’, where prayers and Bible reading were said daily every morning.” On the discipline and administration in the educational system, Mrs Seymour recorded, “The primary school system in those days was administered by a governing body for primary schools, and priests and ministers of the various denominational schools were appointed to monitor the administration of the schools. For example, at Carmel R.C., while I was there, Fr. McCaffrey was the priest who visited the school once or twice per month, to sign the payroll and the attendance register of teachers; look into any problem facing the head teacher; and sign in the logbook the date of his visit and any remarks he might have to make concerning the discipline of pupils or staff.” This was during the first PPP Government, when C.V. Nunes was the Minister of Education. There were also schools run by Hindu and Islamic organisations, with similar codes of conduct. The products of this system were decent, well-behaved law-abiding adults who believed in the basic principles of honour, respect for their fellow humans, and compassion for the less fortunate in society. The system involved training in decorum, deportment, and good manners, with the requisite and necessary inputs to achieving equitable intellectual, social and physical development, which started from the home, and which was strategically supported by a strong network involving the educational system and the community. Any objective observer can easily argue how far down the ladder we have descended in social behaviour from the days when Mrs Elma Seymour taught school. Rather than a practice where families “pray together” in order to “stay together”, they instead drink together and fight together, and the only solution to this rapid decay in the moral fabric of society is that a holistic approach be taken, as in the days of yore, wherein there is total involvement of societal sectors to upgrade and enhance social behavioural norms. The Government needs to take a pro-active approach in dealing with juvenile delinquency in a more structured way, where children with severe discipline problems should obtain their education under more disciplinary conditions. We agree with Minister Manickchand that the only option available, which is to expel indiscipline students, is not a constructive solution. At the same time teachers are constrained from punishing children because of widespread concerns about abuse. According to Seymour, discipline has to be left completely to the parents, as teachers are allowed no latitude, despite the most provoking behaviour from troublemaking students, who even walk with weapons and threaten other students over trifling incidents. Parents, on the other hand, can withhold privileges within the home environment, but without a simultaneous programme, wherein the school is allowed some leeway, even with monitoring from officials from the Education Department, the problems of society will continue to deteriorate into an escalation of violent and aberrant behavior, where even authority figures will be helpless to contain.

Perico the donkey, with Flay the dog and Fifi the cat on its back, climbing the steps of the Sanctuary of Saint Anthony the Abbot and Saint Anthony of Padua to receive a blessing in the Basque mountain port of Urkiola, Spain (Reuters)

PPP/C party can count, calculate and converse past a trillion

Dear Editor, The bashers have already started to brag and boast about who is better at blowing the Government’s trillion-dollar 2024 budget to bits and pieces, plugging holes in the proposals and trashing the Ministers’ presentations by tearing them apart. The PNC is famous for breaking, and not building. Where is the Co-op Bank that they started? They will all be dressed to death as they address their attention to fathom on this festive feast in the ‘man-eating’ fiesta. Dave Martin says, “It’s tradition”, yet the PNC will not agree with the PPP/C budget, which will provide more money for their comrades, who in turn will be able to spend more on food, medicine, education, housing and clothing. How can a budget with this magnum and magnitude not benefit Guyanese in the short and long terms, whether directly or indirectly, as well as wholesomely and holistically? Remember, it is the very PNC under disguise who marched this country into economic bankruptcy at the end of both of their terms in office! The PPP/C party left them with surplus in 1964 and in 2015, of which they twice squandered through pilfering and wastage. How can those who are mathematically bankrupt manage

such trillion-dollar figures? The oil industry is interpreted in US dollars. Can we now convert US dollars to Guyana dollars with some degree of accuracy? And yet, Guyanese will hear them challenging PPP/C Math geniuses! It’s customary for the clobbers to chastise the cheerers, and condemn any one concurring with the Government and confirming all the positivity from the budget. The critics will castigate Harry Wrong to Hari Right, and condemn even those who stand to gain meaningfully and not minimally. The PNC’s DNA is to destroy, not develop. After all, they have to show that they are worth their salt in order to maintain their position in their worldly barrel of crab climbing! How can the Opposition scoff at their constituencies and chastise supporters who ultimately will reap the benefits of this colossal piece of economic artistry? Sir Arthur Lewis supports educating people as one of the means of removing poverty. The PNC denied their members the children’s cash grants. It is the PPP/C party who replaced their loss. Now you will hear how the PNC cannot support the very budget which calls for increases for this cash grant. The devoted duty of the PNC’s magicians as

the Opposition party is to be as damaging, dangerous and devious as possible, as each conceivable opportunity presents itself; and not to conceal their poisonous, pent-up and peppery feelings. Those lambasting will lace their asinine statements with all the unadulterated, lethal and venomous remarks with pride, and without being prejudiced about reservation. Yet it is the PNC who looted and burnt their own Georgetown playground in the 60s, and allowed Georgetown to become a garbage city instead of the garden city. Now it is the PPP/C party who has to clean up their mess and physically pick up their pieces in order for the city to be presentable. All the mayors have engaged in the compilation of filth and faeces. What happened to Durban Park? Who created this eyesore? Who is rebuilding City Hall? Yet the PNC will be grumpy with the budget. They will vote against it, or, as usual, abstain from voting for what is in their own interest and that of their supporters. They will not back a budget which will support their own communities; which will see their rising youths getting a chance to shine in sports and engage in cultural activities, instead of walking the streets. Guyana’s young gener-

ation is already prepared for this abhorrent ceremony, and there will be no culture shock. The PNC proliferators are not capable of bridging borders; instead, they are conformists for blocking with barriers. Their show will exhibit their previous performances, inclusive of total disregard for the Speaker of the House, perpetual interruptions, being noisy nuisances, and sneering and mocking without limit. All Guyanese, except the PNC, will agree with a PPP/C budget which will make education at UG free. Imagine your own party working against your interest! The PNC bombed and burnt their own backward in Mackenzie at the expense of their own people in the 60s. Now it’s the PPP/C party who will bridge that gap with new and modern infrastructure. The PNC will not want to see a PPP/C budget which will finance housing, water and electricity for their own ‘kith and kin,’ who want to improve their standard of living with the help of the various Government programs. It is the PPP/C’s budget which will cater to providing employment for Lindeners, so that the people in that town will improve their lifestyle. Yet, the PNC will find fault with this plan. CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024

You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

Ali, Phillips are genuinely devoted to building Guyana and defending its territory Dear Editor, President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Prime Minister Brigadier Mark Phillips have emerged as the two most skillful, talented and adept leaders of Guyana in recent times. Not only are they a solid and well- coordinated team, but they are also visionary leaders with the ability to develop the country, uplift the people, and, in three years, transition Guyana from an underdeveloped country to a developed nation. They are also very fortunate to have the experience of Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo to guide and provide them with the practical and functional advice on governance. Mr. Jagdeo, who is the longest reigning President of Guyana (19992011) is perhaps the most knowledgeable, skillful and proficient leader in the country. He is considered one of the most informed and experienced leaders in the country, and perhaps in the Caribbean. President Dr Ali, in particular, has exalted the values of the people, and praised them for their cooperation and bravery during its most difficult times, especially the sudden and unfortunate deaths of five senior military personnel and

the ongoing border controversy with Venezuela. Not to mention the conflagration at the Mahdia dorm that claimed the lives of twenty precious children. During these major crises, President Dr. Ali and Prime Minister Phillips were courageous and steadfast in their commitment and determination to defend the sovereignty of the country and prevent such disasters from happening, as they led the nation in prayers and healing. On the border controversy, no one can dispute that it was heavily on the minds of most Guyanese. However, their fears were calmed by His Excellency Dr. Irfaan Ali and Prime Minister Brigadier Mark Phillips, who assured them that they are doing everything in their power to make sure Guyana will not yield a square inch to Caracas. His Excellency was forthright in his efforts to apprise members of the international community of the dangerous threats by the Maduro regime to use force to seize the county of Essequibo, which comprises 74 percent of Guyana’s territory. At all regional, hemispheric and international forums, President Ali has emphasized the need

Conrad Plummer was a master administrator/ outstanding sports personality Dear Editor, Conrad Plummer was indeed a genuine sports personality and a career Banker, but for many of us, he was a father figure as well. It is indeed with great sadness that his immediate family and the sports fraternity bid him farewell. Conrad Plummer was a proud Berbician, who eventually came to Georgetown and blossomed into a senior personality on many fronts. As a national hockey player, he represented this country for more than a decade. He was a brilliant student, and undoubtedly a Queen’s College stalwart. As a Banker, he was Managing Director of one of the most powerful banks in this country. At the same time, he continuously provided unflinching support by way of influencing sponsorship for the development of sports in this country. Plummer’s support for hockey was unwavering. However, this stalwart was balanced and unchauvinistic in his endeavours, devoting his personal time and attention to many young sportsmen and sportswom-

en, which served as a tremendous impetus to their development. He was a disciplinarian and gave valuable advice to our people. As a former proactive member and Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Plummer spent days and nights in serious discussion as we crafted the National Sports Commission Act #23 of 1993, for implementation by the National Sports Commission. He also worked vigorously on preparation of the National Sports Policy. In recognition of his valuable support to development in this country, he was the recipient of a National Award, Medal of Service. Conrad Plummer’s loyalty and dedication to peace and to his Lord was most genuine, as he died as the pastor of the Redeemer Parish in Georgetown. As we celebrate the life and teaching of Conrad Plummer, let us extend our sincere sympathies to his wife, sons and grandsons during this difficult time. Sincerely, Neil Kumar

for stability, peace and cooperation in the Western Hemisphere, but has insisted that the Maduro regime’s intention to unilaterally seize Essequibo could destabilise the Caribbean region, which has been designated a zone of peace. Venezuela is fully aware of the peace that has existed in the Caribbean, but has chosen to ignore it. While President Dr. Ali was informing the international community about the threats posed by Venezuela, Prime Minister Phillips was addressing the nation at home. He told the people that Government and the Opposition are fully united in their resolve that the 1899 Arbitral Award is the ‘full, final and perfect’ settlement of the matter, and that he and President Ali are confident that the border controversy will be settled peacefully at the ICJ. The Prime Minister has reassured the citizens that the claims by Venezuela are bizarre and baseless, and that Essequibo - which is rich in minerals - belongs to Guyana. In his address to the Organization of American States (OAS) in November 2023, Prime Minister Mark Phillips made it abundantly clear that Guyana is a peaceful nation, and that the Maduro regime’s unfounded and baseless claim of the Essequibo has no validity, bearing, or standing in international law. Many social scien-

tists have contended that the two-pronged approach which was brilliantly crafted and used by President Dr. Ali and PM Phillips has yielded positive results. It has not only caught the Maduro regime by surprise, but it has isolated Venezuela from the international, hemispheric and regional organizations, especially the OAS, Caricom, and the Commonwealth of Nations, among others. A dumbfounded and desperate Maduro quickly realized that his credibility has been shattered, and that he had lost the support and respect of the international community. As tensions mount over the border controversy, Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines hosted a meeting between Presidents Nicolas Maduro and Dr. Irfaan Ali. However, President Dr. Ali held the firm position that the border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela was not up for discussion, as the matter is before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). He insisted that the Government of Guyana remained committed to a peaceful and legal process to resolve the border controversy, in order to secure and protect the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and that Essequibo is integral to the development of Guyana. Based on media reports, the meeting, which has been

a success for peace for Latin America and the Caribbean region, was attended by several organizations and government representatives from the Caribbean and Latin America. The meeting ended with a commitment by Venezuela and Guyana to not use military force, and to cooperate to prevent incidents on the border; and a continued dialogue to tackle all outstanding issues. Guyanese at home and in the diaspora, regardless of their status, ethnicity, race, or party affiliation, should commend President

Dr. Ali and Prime Minister Brigadier Phillips for their spirited and strong-willed approach to defending the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Such a heroic display of patriotism, courage and dedication is a testimony of their genuine and devoted love for Guyana. If nothing else, they have succeeded in reducing or ending the threats by the Maduro regime, and hence easing the fears of the nation. Sincerely, Dr Asquith Rose

PPP/C party can count... The naysayers from the PNC will prophesy doom and gloom, and their crystal ball will include a boomless economy and will exclude any blooming growth. They were clueless in managing the COVID-19 pandemic. The hollow Liliendaal construction was a mere empty building until the PPP/C came into power and converted it into a functioning hospital. It is the very PPP/C 2024 budget which is catering for the building of new hospitals and advance medical technology to treat Guyanese and ensure that the health care system is the leading stateof-theart medical institution in the Caribbean. This budget is the very budget which the PNC will cry, “Shame! Shame! Shame!”

FROM PAGE 4

at, and will not help to see it materialize. They do not want to see the people enjoying a happy and healthy life. The 2024 Budget is the brainchild of the PPP/C Government, ardently created with the help of many stakeholders and players from different fields. This is inclusive governance with the theme, “Staying the Course, building Prosperity for all.” Bamboozled with a trillion-dollar figure, the PNC remains visionless, and could have never imagined that the PPP/C party is capable with ease of counting, calculating and conversing past a thousand billion! Yours respectively, Jai Lall

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Foundation ◄

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I SPY BINOCULARS

neighbourhood. (Adapted from Nature for Kids)

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GDF to acquire 4 new helicopters – VP …says $42.2B GDF allocation to boost Guyana’s “defensive capacity”

ith the aim of bolstering the country’s defensive capacity, the Guyana Government has allocated a significant portion of the $1.146 trillion Budget 2024 towards building the technical capability and assets of the local security sector. Some $42.2 billion has been allocated in Budget 2024 for the Guyana Defence Force (GDF). Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo disclosed on Thursday that efforts are already underway to procure four new helicopters that will not be used only by the GDF, but also by the Guyana Police Force. “We’re in discussions with Bell for the purchase of four smaller helicopters, which assist not just the army but the Police in training and also policing, because they’ll be equipped with a whole range [of] technology et cetera…things along those lines; it’s more defensive capacity…to better equip our security forces,” Jagdeo stated. In October 2020, the US State Department had approved the sale of four helicopters and related equipment to Guyana to the tune of US$256 million. Details of the sale were announced in a Department of Defense (DOD) statement. According to the particulars of the sale, Guyana would get four helicopters: two Bell 412Epi and two Bell

Colonel Michael Charles, and Sergeant Jason Khan were part of a seven-member crew on board the army’s Bell 412 helicopter when it lost signal near Guyana’s western borders on December 6, 2023. The chopper was found the following day in Region Seven’s forest with only two survivors. The helicopter suffered significant damage, particularly in the fuselage, with only a few pieces remaining. It has been reported that the

to be made to replace that chopper as well. “Ultimately, I think you’d have to have other helicopters with capacity to carry large numbers of people. What model, I don’t know, because that needs to come out of the assessment that is being done now… But what is being found now is that these same smaller helicopters [that Government is going buy] have low operating costs and they can be used a lot to train more of our pilots too… The cost

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo speaking at his weekly press conference on Thursday

429 helicopters, plus related equipment. According to the DOD, colloquially known as the Pentagon, the US Congress received the required certification informing them of the possible sale of the helicopters on Saturday. The DOD went on to speak of the benefits of the deal to Guyana. “This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve security of Guyana, which is expected to grow to be an important force for political stability and economic progress in South America. The sale will improve Guyana’s capability to meet current and future threats. “Guyana will use the enhanced capability to

strengthen its homeland defence; conduct maritime surveillance, patrol, and interdiction; counter narcotics trafficking and transnational criminal organizations; deter regional threats; and support coalition partners overseas. “Guyana will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces,” the DOD also said, adding that the sale will not alter the basic balance of military power in the region. Only in December 2023, one of the GDF’s newest helicopters was damaged in a horrific crash that claimed the lives of five servicemen. Brigadier (Ret’d) Gary Beaton; Lieutenant Colonel Michael Shahoud; Lieutenant Colonel Sean Welcome; Lieutenant

The GDF 412 helicopter that was destroyed in the December 6, 2023 crash

black box from the chopper, which contains flight information, has been sent to the National Transportation and Safety Board (NTSB) in Washington, United States for the retrieval of data to aid the ongoing investigation in ascertaining what transpired. On Thursday, VP Jagdeo told reporters that arrangements will have

is a fraction of the larger ones…but that assessment is still being done on whether they will go back for the 412 or have a different model; not that there is anything wrong with the 412,” Jagdeo stated. In fact, the Vice President went on to dismiss claims made that the 412-helicopter involved in the crash was a remodelled

chopper. He noted that it was a new helicopter that was bought directly from the manufacturer. Meanwhile, in addition to building its air fleet, the Guyana Government also has a line of credit with India to acquire marine assets that will be used to enhance the policing of Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Step up spending

Earlier this month, President Dr Irfaan Ali had said there were active plans to step up spending in the security sector; not only hardware, but human resources. This comes on the heels of last month’s heightened tension with neighbouring Venezuela, which is laying claims to more than twothirds of Guyana’s landmass in the Essequibo and a portion of its EEZ, where oil production activities are ongoing. However, President Ali has made it clear that these efforts are merely aimed at bolstering the country’s defence capability, and not for any acts of aggression. President Ali and his Venezuelan counterpart, Nicolas Maduro, had agreed “not to threaten or use force against one another” during the historic face-toface meeting in St Vincent and the Grenadines on December 14, 2023. (G8)

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Budget… I

…choices

n ordinary lingo, when you hear about something being a “budget item”, you know it ain’t expensive - and certainly not extravagant. So, in the States, the company that decided to take on Hertz – the biggest car-rental company – called itself “Budget Car Rental”, to signal that its prices were lower! For ordinary folks, “being on a budget” means you’re watching what you spend, to make sure you don’t “exceed your budget”. So, with the Government’s Budget 2024 out there, waiting to be debated by them and the Opposition, let’s see how we can connect Budgets with our own lives, shall we? Basically, a Budget’s put together whenever you consider what money you got or what you’ll be getting in a specific time frame – generally a year – and then decide which of the things you think you need and can afford. Now, this is basic common sense, innit?? So, when you hear the Opposition criticising the Budget in Parliament next week, just keep this simple idea in your head. From what your Eyewitness has been hearing, the Opposition is singing the tune that since our country’s getting more money, we oughta be spending more – much more. But then comes the trillion-dollar question: what exactly should we be spending the money on?? Well, we already pointed out that it should be on what we NEED. And that’s where we have a problem, since the Government is already spending more - as evidenced by the FIRST trillion-dollar budget. From what your Eyewitness gathers, the Government is looking at the future, when we wouldn’t have the oil revenues no mo’ – we only have 15 billion barrels or so, after all – and are trying to create an economy that would be sustainably prosperous. On the other hand, the Opposition looks at the poverty that abounds in the here and now and wants the Government to be doling out $1 million to every family every year, and use whatever it takes to get more money into the citizens’ pockets to spend. Lower taxes, increase salaries and pensions, and more handouts, etc. So, dear reader, it’s up to each one of us to decide which path we should travel: live high off the hog right now with the Opposition, and let the future take care of itself, or build something that’ll take care of us and our children in the future!! Now, this choice on how we handle our budget is so old that there’s even an Aesop tale about it down the ages – the Ant and the Grasshopper! The grasshopper spent as fast as he earned, and scoffed at the ant who was saving for the future. When winter arrived, guess who was left in the cold? Remember the tale come next Monday! …barbs Some sniffed that the Finance Minster’s Budget presentation was marred by the unseeming and crude interruptions of the Opposition. The general consensus was that while interruptions are OK, they ought to be witty, and not crude. But your Eyewitness thinks that’s a bit snooty - and doesn’t reflect the new ethos in politics in the countries we model ourselves on. The new normal is exemplified by some of the repartee of Republican Trump against Democrats. On one occasion, according to a report, “Trump called one GOP rival a “son of a b----,” referred to another as “birdbrain”, and had the crowd shrieking with laughter at his comments on Rep. Adam B. Schiff, whom he called “pencil neck”, before asking, “How does he hold up that fat, ugly face?” He brought the house down while mocking Biden, at one point baselessly suggesting Biden is using drugs and can’t get offstage “by the time whatever it is he’s taken wears off.” Good thing the goodly Minister gave as good as he got!! …nurses Your Eyewitness is trying to understand the phenomenon of us training nurses - only to see them emigrate. Now he hears we’ll be importing even more Cuban nurses. Can’t we find a way to retain the locals? The views expressed in this column are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Guyana Times’ editorial policy and stance

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

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Riprap sea defence washes away, exposes Corentyne Coast …Govt not getting value for money – community activist

A section of a riprap sea defence along the Corentyne Coast has washed away

section of a riprap sea defence along the Corentyne Coast has been washed away, leaving the vulnerable Corentyne coast exposed to the ravages of the turbulent Atlantic Ocean. The riprap sea defence was constructed three years ago, after sections of the beach that were used for farming began falling prey to the vagaries of the Atlantic Ocean. That project had entailed placing borders in a particular pattern to form a riprap sea defence,

to A & S Contractors in December 2020, and a few months later, it was completed. However, three years after its completion, the riprap sea defence is starting to give way, being no longer able to withstand the ocean’s constant banging. The project was deemed necessary back in 2020, following massive erosion to the then-sea defence. “Today, what even the contractor did is washing away on both sides, the left and right. In 2022, the

and the community between Numbers 59 and 61 Villages, covering a distance of about one mile, had been effectively protected. The current breach in the sea defence at Number 61 Village has not been reported to regional authorities. Boulders from a section of the riprap have been seen scattered along the beach. The contract to execute that work was awarded by the Public Works Ministry

Government spent more than $40M to build the Number 61 beach entrance road, so people can have access to the beach from there. Now, you have a four-foot drop, and you can’t get to the beach because the riprap or the boulders are washing away,” a community activist in the area explained. Gobin Harbhajan, who works out of the Office of the President, feels that Government is not getting value for money. He not-

ed that similar sea defences are constructed around the Caribbean, and they last for decades. “It is shocking to me that (this matter has not been reported when) we have an

NDC not far away, and then we have RDC Councillors on the Upper Corentyne. This matter should have been highlighted at the level of the Ministry or even higher, so that they can get back the

contractor. This is the last bank, and if the water rides over, it would run straight into the area where the people are doing farming,” Harbhajan said. “That should have been

done by the engineer or some other local person. We must hold engineers and contractors accountable for shady jobs that are going on in the country and the region,” he added. (G4)

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

CANU seized $461M worth of narcotics in 2023 …almost 800kg of cannabis seized from Region 6

he Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) seized approximately 1363.28 kilograms of narcotics over the course of 2023, and cannabis sativa (ganja) has accounted for 94 percent of the total seizure. Statistics provided by the agency on Thursday showed that, in the course of 73 separate operations, 1,287 kilograms of cannabis were recovered from 74 seizures. From 18 operations conducted, 75.17 kilograms of cocaine were seized. Ecstasy and hashish seized accounted for respectively 0.12kg and 0.10kg, and they came from four operations. A breakdown of the cannabis seized found that a staggering 796.4 kilograms were removed from Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne). This was followed by 309.7 kilograms from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), 51 kilograms from Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara), and 41 kilograms from Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice). Other areas accounted for the remainder of seizures in smaller proportions. During the period under review, drugs confiscat-

last year, consisting of four pistols, three shotguns and one revolver.

Demand reduction

Head of CANU, James Singh

ed by CANU carried a local street value of approximately $461.5 million. The narcotics seized for the period consisted of $75.1 million in cocaine and $386.3 million in cannabis. A disaggregation of the data showed a total of 80 persons were arrested, comprising 70 males and 10 females. Some 54 persons were charged, and 47 convictions were secured. Of these arrested, 38 persons were predominantly within the 30-50 age bracket, while 33 were in the age bracket of 18-30 years. Meanwhile, eight firearms were seized during the

CANU has been actively participating in several demand reduction initiatives for 2023 through collaborative efforts with the Home Affairs Ministry, Education Ministry, Health Ministry, Human Services and Social Security Ministry, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and sports groups. Drug Awareness sessions conducted at schools throughout Guyana addressed the primary objective of deterring substance use or misuse among young individuals, and dissuading them from participating in unlawful activities, such as drug trafficking. These sessions also focused on educating teachers about the various types of illicit substances, and ways of identifying same. The Unit also engaged in multiple educational sessions with organisations that provide extracurricular activities, specifically focusing on sports as a means of offering constructive outlets for young individuals. Those sessions were intend-

ed to educate young individuals about the negative effects of drug use, and the perils associated with participating in illicit activities. CANU also collaborated with other countries’ law enforcement agencies in 2023 to carry out several joint operations that resulted in the seizure of large amounts of illegal drugs. Head of CANU, James Singh, has assured that the agency is committed to furthering and strengthening public outreach programmes and community partnerships, since those have been crucial in increasing awareness about the perils of drug usage. “Through active participation in local communities and schools, we have not only educated the public, but also fostered a sense of unity and shared responsibility. The objective of these rele-

vant demand reduction programmes is to decrease the consumption of illegal substances among teenagers and the younger demographic. Recognizing the global nature of the drug trade,

he added, CANU will fortify its collaboration with international partners in order to encourage coordinated efforts, which have proven instrumental in tackling transnational drug-related threats. (G12)

NEWS

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Public urged to use GPHC Complaints Office on issues of service delivery

embers of the general public are being urged to use the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation’s (GPHC’s) Complaints Office if they are aggrieved about the quality of service they have received. This call was issued by Advisor to the Minister of Health, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy. This Complaints Office, located next to the entrance of the GPHC’s New Market Street Complex, is tasked with investigating all complaints lodged by citizens. It is overseen by the Patient Complaints Committee, chaired by the GPHC’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer, and has among its members the Director of Medical & Professional Services, Quality Improvement Manager, and the Public Relations Officer.

focusing on improvement,” the Health Advisor explained.

Training

Advisor to the Minister of Health, Dr Leslie Ramsammy

health sector, because I am disappointed - as well as the President, as well as the Minister - that sometimes our health workers

Under guidance of the Peoples Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Administration, Guyana has fostered many international partnerships and facilitated advanced training for health practitioners. Scores of doctors are currently completing fellowships aboard with Mount Sinai Health System, McMaster University, and Northwell Health, by which they have been provided opportunities to learn new clinical skills and understand how international institutions function, so Guyana can adopt new medical techniques and best practices. As a result, doctors of the GPHC were able to

After complaints have been investigated, recommendations are made to resolve them, and deficien-

are tone deaf, they’re not hearing, and so I believe that we need to do more,” Dr. Ramsammy has said. Dr Ramsammy added

successfully perform some 12,495 surgeries in 2023. A total of 876 of these surgeries were elective, 587 were

cies are eradicated to prevent their recurrence in the future. Dr Ramsammy has declared that the Health Ministry takes patient feedback very seriously; therefore, all matters are dealt with promptly and comprehensively. “We also have a national hotline that is staffed, that people can call us (on) and tell us (their complaints), and we immediately respond. And so, we are working with the

that while efforts are ongoing to improve services at the Georgetown Public Hospital, citizens should utilise the Complaints’ Office if they encounter any bad experience. He is optimistic that doing so would play a pivotal role in preventing issues between patients and medical staff from escalating. “If we make the health sector a more accommodating place, a more friendly place, um, where it is people-centred, you will find that suddenly people are

minor, 845 were emergency, and 56 were for hernias. Procedures ranged from complex spine, plastic, vaginal, skin, neurological, ligament reconstruction and joint replacement surgeries. Further, in an effort to enhance nursing education and make it accessible to everyone across the length and breadth of the nation, the Health Ministry, through the Health Sciences Education (HSE) Department, launched the

hybrid professional nursing training programme in 2023 in a collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization/ World Health Organization

(PAHO/WHO). Some 1200 persons who are engaged in this three-year nursing programme will be provided with employment opportunities by the Health

Ministry upon their completion of the programme. This is part of the efforts to address the shortage of nurses in the country.

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Better quality of degree programmes needed at UG - VP Jagdeo …says Govt examining ways to benefit all students from fee write-off

s the Guyana Government continues to inject billions into the University of Guyana, and with effort commencing to offer free education there, there is a need for the tertiary educational institution to enhance its degree programme. This view was expressed by Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo during a press conference on Thursday, “[The University of Guyana] needs to have a good quality of degree [programmes], particularly first degrees. Around a core number of areas and quality

is important…so a lot has to be reviewed there too; and the Government, now that it will be using taxpayers' resources to fund the entire university, needs to ensure that we have solid leadership, and also that we have value for money, and the output - the quality of the degree [programme] - is of a standard that is recognised everywhere in the world.”

GOAL

The Vice President was, at the time, asked about the need for fair and comparable salaries for UG lecturers, given that the local

institution is offering the same services as the GOAL (Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) scholarship initiative. Jagdeo argued that these are two different structures, and a “straight line comparison” is very difficult. He said there are a number of other issues that are affecting the quality of education being delivered at UG apart from the salary scale of the lecturers there. Also questioned whether a higher salary is the only condition necessary for the delivery of a better quality of education at UG,

experience we want with a campus, because we’re still sustaining this whole campus,” VP Jagdeo stated.

Free UG education

Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo

Jagdeo said, “So, I believe that it’s a much more complex discussion when you look at quality…I think that we need to return to the focus on the quality of the degree [programmes] and the quality of the tuition, and if it necessitates higher remuneration to improve quality, then we’ll have to do it. But I don't believe it’s the only condition necessary,” he posited. In fact, the Vice President pointed to the fact that there have been complaints that, since coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic, some students have been getting mainly online classes rather than on-campus teaching. “I don’t know if it's true, but [some students complained] they haven’t gone in once to the campus. It’s all online. But that’s not the

As part of its 2020 Manifesto Promise, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) had promised to deliver free education at the University of Guyana. President Dr Irfaan Ali has already indicated this month that the Government’s plan to provide Guyanese with free UG education by 2025 would be rolled out in phases, starting with students who have pre-existing loans. In fact, it was announced earlier this week that Government will commence the first phase of eliminating outstanding loans owed by UG graduates this year. This was revealed by Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh when he explained in his presentation of the $1.146 trillion Budget 2024 that this write-off will, however, be on the condition that graduates can demonstrate proof of being employed for a minimum period to be specified. On Thursday, Vice President Jagdeo noted that much consideration will have to be given on how to roll out this measure, especially since it would not benefit everyone.

Vice Chancellor Professor Paloma Mohamed-Martin

For instance, he mentioned, those past students who have already paid off their UG loans would stand to gain nothing from this. Responding to a question on whether Government would be engaging the commercial banks to also waive loans that students had taken to cover their UG fees and are still paying off, Jagdeo said, “When we give a waiver to the university, they don't owe the university, but they owe the bank now. So that is the issue, the wavier there doesn't help them, or if they got the money from their parents or they worked and paid it off… So, it’s a bit unfair to those people, so we have to get the numbers and see what we can do for them too… We still have to come up with a policy to try to help those people. We have not done so as yet,” Jagdeo stated. (G8)

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Labourer busted with ganja at Husband, wife arrested with Eugene F Correira Int’l Airport ecstasy, cocaine & ganja in home …ganja field, shotgun found in additional busts

The shotgun and ammo found in East Ruimveldt, Georgetown

The ganja that was found in the labourer’s possession at the Eugene F Correira Int’l Airport

labourer who was attempting to smuggle a quantity of marijuana through the Eugene F. Correira Int’l Airport at Ogle, ECD on his way to Aurora in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) was on Wednesday busted by ranks of the Customs AntiNarcotics Unit. CANU, in a statement

on Thursday, said the 23-year-old man, of Old Kara Kara in Mackenzie, Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), was arrested with 84 grams of cannabis at the airport. He remains in custody pending charges. Meanwhile, CANU ranks on Tuesday stumbled upon some 200 small cannabis plants growing in a field at St Cuthbert’s Mission District, a Mahaica riverine community, as they were on an eradication exercise in that com-

After over 2 years on the run

munity. That ganja field has since been destroyed, but no one was arrested. And in another incident on Tuesday, CANU ranks conducting an operation in the East Ruimveldt, Georgetown area observed a man carrying a bulky salt bag. Upon seeing the CANU officers, the man dropped the bag and ran away. Subsequent search of the bag revealed a 12-gauge shotgun and five matching rounds of ammunition. An investigation has been launched.

Man wanted for Linden shallow grave murder caught in Suriname

Nabbed in Suriname: Shaquawn Alleyne, known as "Izwe Boss"

Dead: Shonnette Dover

embers of the Paramaribo R e g i o n a l Assistance Team on Thursday apprehended Shaquawn Alleyne, better known as ‘Izwe Boss’, who has, since 2021, been wanted by the Police in Guyana for the brutal murder of his 20-year-old girlfriend Shonnette Dover. After being shot and killed on April 3, 2021, Dover was buried in the suspect’s backyard, but a younger sister of the victim, who had witnessed the shooting, alerted Police to what had transpired. With guidance from that sister, the victim’s decomposed body was found in a shallow grave aback Alleyne’s Canvas City Linden home on April 30, 2021. Alleyne’s father and Dover’s 15-year-old sister had been arrested during the investigation. Police had indicated that the teen had led them to the shallow

grave where the missing woman’s remains were buried after confessing to being at the scene of the crime when the woman died on April 3, 2021. A post-mortem examination (PME) had been conducted on Dover’s body, and it revealed that she had died as a result of a single gunshot injury to the head. On May 4, 2021, Dover’s teen sister was charged with accessory after the fact of murder in relation to Dover’s death. Alleyne had since managed to elude the Police, and Guyanese authorities had strongly suspected that he had fled to Suriname in order to evade arrest. After thorough investigation, he was identified, arrested, and handed over to the Police in Suriname for arraignment. Surinamese media have reported that he will be transferred to Guyana according to procedure.

husband and wife have been arrested after law enforcement officials uncovered a quantity of ecstasy, cocaine and marijuana at their home at Crabwood Creek, Corentyne, Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne). In an intelligence-led operation conducted earlier this week by ranks of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) and Special Branch ranks from Police Regional Division Six, “the ranks, during a search of the premises, found a plastic bag with 81…packets containing tablet-like substances suspected to be ecstasy. The ranks also found suspected cocaine and marijuana,” the Police have said in a statement. The man and his wife were arrested and placed in custody at the Springlands Police

Some of the ecstasy pills that were found during the drug bust

Station. It is alleged that the man admitted knowledge of the marijuana, but denied knowledge of the cocaine and ecstasy.

14 NEWS

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

“You have changed his life for the better” – mom of boy who received cleft lip surgery …as FFTP sponsors surgeries for 2 Region 9 children

n a display of compassion and commitment to changing lives, Food For the Poor (Guy) Inc (FFTP) has covered the financial expenses associated with cleft lip surgeries done on two children. The initiative was done under FFTP Guyana’s Benevolence Program, and the surgeries were performed on January 13 at the Dr Balwant Singh Hospital in Georgetown. One of the children on whom the surgeries were performed was a twoyear-old who hails from Tabatinga in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), while the other was an 11-year-old from the remote village of Moco Moco, also in Region Nine. Both children were born with cleft lips, and faced numerous challenges as a result of the abnormality, the FFTP said in a press statement on Thursday. “The stigmatisation and social isolation they experienced due to their condition

created barriers that hindered their personal and social development,” FFTP explained. A cleft lip or palate (roof of the mouth) occurs when tissues in a baby’s face and mouth do not fuse properly. A cleft lip is among the most common birth defects that can be corrected.

Surgeries can restore normal function and achieve a more natural appearance in most babies. Cleft lip or palate can cause a wide range of challenges for children, including difficulty with feeding, ear infections and hearing loss, dental problems, speech difficulties, and so-

cial, emotional, and behavioral issues. The mother of the twoyear-old has expressed her gratitude for the support she received by saying, “I

want to say a big thank you for everything. FFTP (Guy) Inc. has helped me a lot, and I appreciate everything they have done for me. I pray that God continues to

bless FFTP (Guy) Inc.” And the mother of the 11-year -old has said, “I am very grateful for the work FFTP (Guy) Inc has done. FFTP (Guy) Inc has made a significant investment in our lives, and as a mother, I feel very proud. I will never forget what FFTP (Guy) Inc. has done for me and my son. You have changed his life for the better.” “Our Benevolence initiative demonstrates the organization’s commitment to reducing poverty and highlights the significant impact medical interventions can have on the overall well-being of individuals and communities. The Program was launched in 2022, and continues to provide medical assistance to individuals with severe medical needs who cannot afford proper treatment”, FFTP has said.

NEWS

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Over 170 persons benefit from small business grants in Region 2

Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Oneidge Walrond speaking with persons at the distribution exercise at the Anna Regina Town Council

ver 170 residents of Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) have benefitted from the receipt of Government’s business-grant initiative on Wednesday. This grant is disbursed in a bid to stimulate the growth of small businesses and budding entrepreneurs as part of Government’s manifesto promise to ensure that Guyanese from across the country receive assistance in expanding their businesses. The grants were disbursed at the Anna Regina Town Council, and disbursement was spearheaded by the Tourism, Commerce and Industry Minister, Oneidge Walrond. The money will enable residents to start or expand their businesses. In brief remarks, Minister Walrond empha-

sised Government’s commitment to understanding the needs of entrepreneurs and ensuring a tailored response through the Small Business Bureau's services. She acknowledged the surge in requests for small business grants, and highlighted the financial challenge faced in meeting the overwhelming demand. Notably, the Minister underlined Government's proactive approach in raising the maximum grant per person from $200,000 to $500,000 since taking office in 2020. The minister clarified the essence of grants as non-repayable assets that serve as a strategic tool to catalyze the growth of small businesses and entrepreneurs. She reflected on the impactful distribution of 1500 grants nationwide in the previous year, and expressed a contin-

ued commitment to refining the application process for optimal impact. "As you know, a grant is something that is given to you, and you don't have to repay; and it is a way also for us to reach out, as Government, to continue to catalyse the growth of our small businesses and small entrepreneurs. So, we wanted to help as many of you as possible, hence why, across the country for the grant that was given for last year, we were able to give out 1500 grants across the country. And this year, we will continue with the process to take on application, where we will be a little more (judicious) and careful in the priority sector, and refine the process so that most of you applicants will be able to get the impact which we are looking for," Walrond told the beneficiaries. Emphasising the comprehensive support offered by the Small Business Bureau, she urged entrepreneurs not to

view this assistance as a onetime handout, but as a tangible, ongoing effort to support and nurture their businesses. The Minister also told the gathering about the Loan Guarantee Programme at the SBB, wherein businesses are allowed to secure over $500,000 with Government’s support. She encouraged entrepreneurs to approach the Government for guidance through the application process via the bank. "We want to keep encouraging our entrepreneurs that small business is the catalyst for growth and development and prosperity in your communities. We need you to thrive, we need you to grow, and so we don't want you to have just one small shop; we want you to employ people in your community. That is how

our economy with grow, move and blossom, and that's how your community will move, grow, and blossom,” she said. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the SBB, Salim Ibrahim, echoed a clear mission to foster sustained growth and diversification of micro and small enterprises within local sectors. He highlighted the bureau's multifaceted approach in providing expert guidance, channelling resources effectively, and ensuring a supportive environment for maximised performance. Ibrahim underscored the SBB’s commitment to promoting entrepreneurship and alleviating poverty, citing various services such as diverse training programs, a marketplace, and a 20% procurement portal.

The CEO said the grant distribution exercise is a tangible representation of the Government's dedication to creating a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. He took the opportunity to extended heartfelt congratulations to the recipients, urging responsible use of funds for business development, and anticipating the positive impacts on the economy in the coming months and years. Meanwhile, Region Two Chairperson Vilma De Silva expressed gratitude to the Government for their unwavering support of small businesses, and extended congratulations to the beneficiaries. She urges the beneficiaries to utilizing the grants wisely for business development. (G14)

16 NEWS

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

US$2B parent company guarantee

Litigants move to Appeal Court for disclosure of ExxonMobil's document Justice].” Justice Persaud has ordered the parties to submit their submissions about the jurisdictional issue. On February 1, they will appear in court once more to make their arguments.

Court order

ocumentation verifying the US$2B unlimited parent company guarantee has not yet been received by Frederick Collins and Godfrey Whyte, who have sued the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to force US oil giant ExxonMobil (Guyana) to provide an unlimited parent company guarantee for the offshore oil operations of the company and its joint venturers. As a result, the legal team representing Collins and Whyte -- which includes lawyers Melinda Janki and Abiola Wong-Inniss, and is led by Senior Counsel Seenath Jairam -- has filed a summons asking the Court of Appeal to order the EPA/ ExxonMobil to produce the parent company guarantee. But during a hearing in that Court on Thursday, Sanjeev Datadin, attorney for the EPA, argued that Justice of Appeal Rishi Persaud lacks jurisdiction to hear the summons. “My client’s [EPA’s] instructions are to resist this application at this time, while they consider their position as it relates to the disclosure. It isn’t one person who does it; they wanted to

speak to the members of the Board as it relates to that,” Datadin has said. Citing case laws, Datadin submitted, “The court does not have the jurisdiction to proceed to make that sort of order [being requested in the summons].”

Threaten contempt

Senior Counsel Jairam countered with a rebuttal, and threatened to bring contempt of court proceedings against ExxonMobil (Guyana). He said that in his correspondence with EPA/Exxon, he has been requesting a copy of the guarantee, and has cited their obligation to comply with his request under the Legal Practitioners Act. "I don't see the hesitation/ resistance in showing you all a copy of the guarantee," Judge Persaud said in response to Jairam’s statement. Senior Counsel Jairam then said, “Exxon is playing with fire. I’m going to take contempt proceedings, and I am going to argue that they are not in compliance, since they are being difficult and adversarial. We will end up in the CCJ [Caribbean Court of

On May 3, 2023, High Court Judge Sandil Kissoon issued an order, inter alia, directing the EPA to issue ExxonMobil (Guyana) with an Enforcement Notice on or before May 9, 2023 for the company to provide, within 30 days thereof, an unlimited Parent Company Guarantee Agreement and/or unlimited liability Affiliate Company Guarantee, together with environmental liability insurance, as is customary in the international petroleum industry. Failing to do so, the Environmental Permit granted to the company for its operations stands suspended. The EPA complied with that court order, but, shortly after, filed with the Court of Appeal an appeal against Justice Kissoon’s ruling, and later went to that court to request a stay of the said order, pending the hearing and determination of the appeal filed by the agency. Then, on June 8, 2023, Appeal Court Justice Rishi Persaud stayed the order issued by Justice Kissoon for the oil company to provide an unlimited parent company guarantee. In the interim, Justice Persaud ordered ExxonMobil to lodge a US$2B guarantee in “an effort to allay any anxiety as to any impending doom”. The company has already

lodged that guarantee, as required. The High Court order has its origin in a case filed in September 2022 by Collins and Whyte, who had moved to the court to get the EPA to enforce the liability clause in the environmental permit. They want the court to ensure Exxon takes full financial accountability in the case of harm, loss, or damage to the environment from a well blowout, oil spill, or other failure.

Does not require

Senior Counsel Edward Luckhoo, representing Esso/ EEPGL, is contending that Condition 14 of the permit does not require an unlimited guarantee. Maintaining that Justice Kissoon had misinterpreted the clear language of this Condition, he had told the appellate court that what the permit does provide for is an estimate of a finite sum, noting that the formula for arriving at that sum is set out therein. But Senior Counsel Jairam begged to differ, arguing that an unlimited parent company guarantee is necessary to protect Guyana in the event of an oil spill, which could have catastrophic effects on the environment. “[Exxon] has been carrying out oil operations in the open high sea without financial guarantee. An oil spill could send back Guyana to

the Ice Age if there is no insurance, because it is not easy to contain. A parent company guarantee does not cost [Exxon] a cent, but just requires it to show that it has the financial capacity to restore and rehabilitate the environment in the event an oil spill occurs,” Jairam had submitted at a previous hearing. According to him, the permit mandates that Exxon and its co-venturers shall be jointly and severally liable for any loss or damage, or pollution to the environment. The EPA and Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC, have maintained that the environmental permit granted to Exxon imposes no obligation on the company to provide an unlimited parent company guarantee agreement and/or affiliate company guarantee agreement. On the issue of whether the EPA had acted in breach of its statutory duty and had unreasonably permitted Exxon to carry out petroleum production operations in the absence of compliance with the terms of the permit, Justice Kissoon had ruled that the agency had committed an illegality, and

had acted unlawfully, ultra vires, unreasonably, in defiance of logic, irrationally, and without any jurisdiction. He found, inter alia, that Exxon was engaged in a “disingenuous attempt” that was calculated to deceive when it sought to dilute its liabilities and settled obligations stipulated and expressed in Condition 14 of the permit while simultaneously optimising production in the Stabroek Block. “The insurance obtained by the EEPGL from its affiliate company, AON UK Ltd, both for the Liza Phase 1 and Phase 2 Projects, does not satisfy the stipulation and obligation set out at Condition 14:5 of the Environmental Permit, or even what is considered environmental liability insurance according to international standards of the petroleum industry,” Justice Sandil Kissoon had declared. The Government of Guyana is concerned that Justice Kissoon's decision may have far-reaching effects on the public interest and the advancement of the country, both economically and otherwise, if it is not overturned. (G1)

Fisherman admits to killing US-based Guyanese

ario Bissoondyal of Lot 141 Main Street, Cumberland, East Canje Berbice has entered a guilty plea to the 2021 murder of Guyanese national Hemraj Pardesi, called “Prem”, who, at the time of his demise, was visiting from the United States of America (USA) and was staying at Lot 9 Reliance, East Canje Berbice. Arraigned before Justice Jo- Ann Barlow in the Berbice High Court on Wednesday, Bissoondyal, a 34-year-old fisherman, pleaded guilty to a charge which detailed that, during the course or furtherance of a robbery, he and another had attacked Pardesi in his yard after his close associate, who had accompanied him to the bank earlier in the day, had left. Pardesi’s lifeless body was reportedly found at the bottom of his outdoor stairway. He was bleeding from his nose, and duct tape was strapped around his neck. In their investigations, the

Confessed killer Mario Bissoondyal

Murdered: Hemraj Pardesi, aka “Prem”

Police had found the upper flat of Pardesi’s home had been ransacked. Bissoondyal will, on February 7, 2024, appear again in court to be sentenced. He is being represented by Attorney-at-Law Kevin Morgan, while State Counsel Muntaz Ali is appearing for the prosecution. Guyana Times had reported that on the day that Pardesi was murdered, he had visited a local bank and had withdrawn an undisclosed sum of cash that was

intended to pay for some renovation being done on the home. In the course of their investigations, the Police had arrested several persons in connection with Pardesi’s murder. During interrogation, one of the men had reportedly confessed to participating in the heinous crime. He told detectives that he had only carried out the robbery, but had at no time hurt the elderly man. And as he continued to confess, he had implicated several other persons in the crime. (G1)

NEWS

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

$135.2B Education budget to fund new schools, training for 450,000 persons

he Guyana Government will be injecting $135.2 billion into the education sector for 2024, in furtherance of its drive to realise world-class learning opportunities. As he announced the sum this week, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh told the National Assembly that the education sector is critical to the realisation of national objectives, especially since every single Guyanese person of working age has an adequate opportunity to acquire the skills needed to acquire a job. The 2024 budgetary allocation contrasts a stark expansion from the $105 billion spent by the education sector to implement the sector’s various initiatives last year. Resources will be pumped in to expand access by upgrading and expanding infrastructure across the country. In 2023, several new secondary schools across the country, including Abram Zuil, Good Hope, Yarrowkabra and St Roses High, and annexes at the Bishops’ High and Queen’s College, were completed. Works were also ad-

vanced at Christ Church, Hosororo, Karasabai, North Ruimveldt, North West, St Mary’s, Tuschen and St George’s High. Construction will continue at these buildings in 2024, and new secondary schools will be built at Aishalton, Christianburg, Jawalla, Kopinang and Micobie. Sums totalling over $16 billion have been allocated for secondary school buildings. With an allocation of $3.1 billion, Construction of primary schools will begin at Augsburg, Kuribrong, Lake Mainstay, Pennack and Red Creek, among other places. And nursery schools will be built at Foulis, Mibicuri and Tuschen with the $3 billion allocated for nursery schools. Moreover, rehabilitative works will be done on dormitories and teachers’ living quarters countrywide. In total, rehabilitation and maintenance of school buildings and educational facilities will cost some $28.7 billion. The Finance Minister declared, “Universal primary and secondary education

require, at a minimum, adequate places in the school system across the national geography, bearing in mind demographic evolution. Our Government has been, and will continue, investing in adequate schools’ infrastructure, to ensure that every child has a comfortable place in nursery, primary and secondary school.” Government has mandated that all students must have access to the required textbooks for all subjects. In this regard, 502,072 textbooks will be purchased in 2024 at a cost of $3 billion. In 2023, a total of 619,060 textbooks were procured for the primary and secondary levels at a cost of $3.3 billion. The “Because We Care” cash grant has also been increased to $45,000, and will benefit 205,305 children, while $3 billion has also been set aside for school grants to purchase classroom necessities. Another $4.9 billion has been allocated in 2024 to provide juice, biscuits, breakfast, and hot meals to 126,170 children.

Tertiary education

Government has viewed continued investment in tertiary education as essential to ensuring the adequate availability of specialised skills in the workforce, and also enabling young Guyanese to realise their full potential. In 2024, a sum of $4.1 billion has been budgeted to support the University of Guyana (UG). At that institution, new programmes will be offered in such areas as food security, cyber security, engineering technologies, biopharma, marine studies, earth and climate sciences, and sports medicine.

A 3D-rendered image of what the Tuschen Secondary School would look like upon completion

Works have also commenced on a new Health Sciences Education Building, which will be completed in the first half of 2025. Under the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL), 160 new programmes will be introduced in general and vocational, bachelor’s and master’s degrees. An amount of $4 billion has been allocated for GOAL, to support 6,000 new students and 3,967 continuing students. A total of 7,752 scholarships were awarded in 2023, bringing to 21,442 the total number of scholarships offered thus far, and exceeding the target of providing 20,000 online scholarships. Over the last three years, 3,431 persons have graduated from GOAL programmes. Meanwhile, a bulk licensing arrangement concluded with COURSERA allows Guyana to train up to 450,000 persons in a wide range of areas where skills’ gaps exist, especially in the public sector, such as childcare and protec-

tion, human resources management, mental health, psychology, procurement, and customer service. Another 1,000 young persons would be trained in relevant aspects of information and communication technology (ICT), to enable them to take up outsourced high-value ICT-based nearshore jobs. This initiative will cost an estimated $735 million over a two-year period.

TVET

Given the trajectory of the Guyanese economy, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) becomes a higher priority to bridge the skills gap in the labour market and increase employability. In 2024, the Irfaan Ali-led administration has made provisions for the expansion of training programmes offered for Caribbean Vocational Qualifications from 88 to 111 programmes. A new TVET policy for the medium term will be developed in the first half of

2024 to define and govern skills development systems for post-secondary, tertiary, formal, non-formal and informal sectors. Importantly also, in 2024, Phase One of the Guyana Technical Training College (GTTC) at Port Mourant will become operational. A total of 25 students will form the first cohort of students, and will commence specialised factor simulation training in mechanical, electrical and instrumentation engineering. When completed, in six months’ time, these students will be ready to take up employment in the oil and gas industry. The second batch is expected to be recruited in August, and to their curricula will be added building and construction technology. Several technical institutions will also be rehabilitated, upgraded, and equipped for skills development in the country. In this regard, $2.3 billion has been allocated to support technical and vocational interventions. (G12)

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024

guyanatimesgy.com

Regional

Port-au-Prince residents Mexico, Chile refer Israel-Hamas conflict to sheltering in place as ICC over potential crimes violence escalates M H aiti's capital Port-auPrince was on lockdown on Thursday, as flaming barricades across several neighbourhoods forced residents to shelter in place or return home in the latest flare-ups in chronic gang violence plaguing the Caribbean country. Streets were blocked off by burning tyres and rocks, sending up huge plumes of black smoke into the sky across various parts of the city, according to Reuters eyewitnesses. It was not immediately clear who was behind the siege on the city's Solino area, which first began several days ago. Analysts say violence has been escalating for months as gangs jockey for power and seek to put pressure on interim Prime Minister Ariel Henry, ahead of the February 7 expiry of a political accord that consolidated his power. Pierre Esperance, of Human Rights Network RNDDH, said two dozen deaths had been reported in Solino, an impoverished neighbourhood, since the weekend.

A woman and a child duck near a Police vehicle after leaving school amid gang violence in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, March 3, 2023 (Reuters/Ralph Tedy Erol file photo)

"Police are absent. The public physical force is not present," he said. "And the population in (other) areas have blocked the streets in solidarity with Solino." The violence comes ahead of a court decision expected on January 26 on a Kenyan-led multinational force to address gang violence in the country, one of the poorest in the Western Hemisphere. A Police spokesperson did not immediately respond

to a request for comment. Henry faces multiple groups seeking to remove him from power, including Guy Philippe, a former rebel and convicted felon in the US. Moïse Jean-Charles, leader of the Pitit Dessalines party, has also called for protests in the coming days and weeks. There is currently no date set for a new presidential election. (Reuters)

AMCHAM T&T boss urges Govt: Go after the big fish

o after the big fish. This is the call from the business community to Government as it seeks to grapple with rising crime woes. The urgent message came from AMCHAM T&T’s President Stuart Franco as he delivered remarks at the organisation’s Economic Outlook Forum 2024 at the Hyatt Regency, Port-ofSpain, on Tuesday. The event was themed “Adaptation and Resilience”. “We should go further with proactive policing using data analytics to predict and prevent flare-ups after initial crimes and to identify and disrupt gang activity,” Franco said. “However, let’s be realistic. We need to have concerted action and results targeting the big fish – the people who pretend to be legitimate businesspeople, but are deeply entrenched in criminal activity. White-collar crime and corruption are insidious.” He warned that if no dent was made in arresting crime, then the country and its institutions would worsen. “This is destroying our country. It’s time for the TTPS to publicly state their metrics and for us all to work together to achieve them while simultaneously hold-

AMCHAM T&T President Stuart Franco delivering remarks at the organisation’s Economic Outlook Forum (Photo courtesy Sataish Rampersad)

ing each other to account.” Franco also advised that law enforcement be properly outfitted to conduct their duties effectively, saying there must also be state-of-theart DNA testing and equipment at the Forensic Science Centre, with the most modern investigative techniques to combat crime. Additionally, Franco suggested a comprehensive and centralised database with DNA profiles from all convicted offenders, suspects, missing people and victims of crime is implemented to further beef-up Government’s crime fighting arsenal. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

exico and Chile expressed "growing worry" on Thursday over "an escalation of violence" after several months of war between Israel and Hamas in a referral to the International Criminal Court (ICC) over possible crimes. Hamas militants launched a surprise attack in Israel in October, killing 1200 mostly civilians and seizing 253 hostages, with multiple accounts later emerging of rape and mutilation. The Israeli retaliatory offence on the Hamasled Gaza Strip has led to increasing international alarm and scrutiny over the deaths of civilians, especially children. Gaza health authorities said on Thursday the war's death toll had

risen to 24,620, with many more feared buried under the rubble. In a statement, Mexico's Foreign Ministry argued that the ICC was the proper forum to establish potential criminal responsibility, "whether committed by agents of the occupying power or the occupied power." "The action by Mexico and Chile is due to growing worry over the latest escalation of violence, particularly against civilian targets," it said. Israel is not a member of the Hague-based court and does not recognise its jurisdiction. But the ICC's Prosecutor has stressed his court has jurisdiction over potential war crimes carried out by Hamas militants in Israel and by Israelis in

Gaza. Mexico cited "numerous reports from the United Nations that detail many incidents that could constitute crimes under the ICC's jurisdiction." Chile's Foreign Minister Alberto van Klaveren told reporters on Thursday in Santiago that his nation was "interested in supporting the investigation into any possible war crime" wherever they might occur. Mexico said it was closely following the case presented last week before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in which South Africa accused Israel of carrying out genocide in Gaza and demanded that the court order an emergency suspension of Israel's military campaign. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Ecuador’s security forces launch major prison operation

ecurity forces in Ecuador have launched an operation in a major prison complex in the port city of Guayaquil. Soldiers and Police Officers have entered the facility and say they have restored order following a week of rioting in jails across the country. Ecuador's President, Daniel Noboa has said his Government is at war with gangs and organised crime. Earlier this month, gang leader Adolfo Macías Villamar, known as "Fito", escaped from the same complex. Images show hundreds of troops storming the main prison in Guayaquil, as President Noboa's crackdown on gangs shows little sign of slowing down. The troops appear to have taken back control of the penitentiary which is considered the base of op-

Hundreds of troops storming the main prison in Guayaquil

erations for the drug gangs in Guayaquil. Ecuador's Police shared a video on social media of the operation, showing officers looking through inmates' belongings The Government's recent move comes shortly after the murder of a prosecutor, César Suárez, who was investigating organised crime in Ecuador. Suarez, who was mur-

dered on his way to a hearing on Wednesday, had been looking into a siege at a local television station in Guayaquil when masked gunmen took over the channel live on air and held the Journalists hostage at gunpoint. Authorities have detained two people accused of killing Suárez. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Bolsonaro's vaccination records are false, authorities say

he vaccination records of Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro are false, the country's comptroller general's office said on Thursday after an investigation regarding the alleged tampering of information on his COVID-19 vaccination card. The records show that Bolsonaro, a COVID-19 sceptic who publicly opposed the vaccine, received a dose of the immuniser in a public healthcare centre in São Paulo in July 2021. The investigation con-

cluded, however, that the former President had left the city the previous day and did not leave Brasilia until three days later, according to a statement. The nurse listed in the records as having applied the vaccine on Bolsonaro denied doing so and was no longer working at the centre. The listed vaccine lot was also not available on that date, the comptroller general's office said. Registration of two other vaccine doses that would have been given to

Bolsonaro was removed from his record even before the investigations began, it added, saying these were also fake. Bolsonaro has previously denied having knowledge of or ordering false information to be inserted into his vaccination records. During his tenure, Bolsonaro repeatedly downplayed the importance of immunisation and social distancing measures during the pandemic. He often stated that he had not been vaccinated against the dis-

ease and would not do so. Meanwhile. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva will meet with China's visiting Foreign Minister Wang Yi this afternoon in the northeastern Brazilian city of Fortaleza, a presidential spokesperson said on Thursday. Wang, on a tour of African nations, Brazil and Jamaica, is in Brasilia for two days of meetings at the Foreign Ministry and a joint statement is expected at midday. (Excerpt from Reuters)

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024

Around The World

Netanyahu publicly rejects OILNEWS OIL NEWS US push for Palestinian state I Cheap Russian oil

cuts OPEC's share of India imports to record-low 50%

he annual share of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) in India's crude imports fell to its lowest level ever in 2023 while that of discounted Russian barrels surged to an all-time high, data obtained from trade and industry sources show. India, the world's third-biggest oil importer and consumer, has long relied on the nearby middle-eastern nations for meeting most of its oil needs to cut freight costs. Last year for the first time India imported nearly equal quantities of oil from the OPEC members as it did from nonmembers, the data shows. The South Asian nation imported an average 4.65 million barrels per day (bpd) oil in 2023, up two per cent from the previous year. OPEC's share in India's crude oil diet plunged to about 49.6 per cent in the first nine months of this fiscal year from April compared with 64.5 per cent a year earlier, the data show. Altered trade flows due to geopolitical tensions and costlier shipments from some traditional suppliers have expedited India's efforts to diversify its import sources and tap cheaper supplies from even far-flung areas such as Russia. Imports of Russian oil accounted for about 36 per cent of India's total crude purchases in 2023 at 1.66 million bpd, the data showed. In 2022, India imported an average 651,800 bpd Russian oil, the data shows. Discounted Russian oil also curtailed India's intake of Middle Eastern oil to the lowest level ever, the calculations show. Russian oil became cheaper for India as Western nations shunned purchases from Moscow in retaliation for its invasion of Ukraine. However, in December India's imports of Russian oil fell to the lowest in a year as some shipments were diverted after Washington tightened rules including toughened scrutiny by banks and service providers to ensure that cargoes do not breach the US$60 per barrel price cap. The South Asian nation shipped in 1.34 million bpd of Russian oil last month, a decline of about 16.3 per cent from November, as some cargoes were diverted, the data showed. Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has said that cargoes were diverted due to pricing. Last year, Russia was the top oil supplier to India, replacing Iraq, which is now at number two, with Saudi Arabia tumbling to third position. (Reuters)

sraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he has told the United States that he opposes the establishment of a Palestinian State once the conflict in Gaza comes to an end. In a news conference, a defiant Netanyahu vowed to press on with the offensive in Gaza "until complete victory": the destruction of Hamas and return of the remaining Israeli hostages, adding that it could take "many more months". With almost 25,000 Palestinians killed in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry, and 85 per cent of the Strip's population displaced, Israel is under intense pressure to rein

yet known. Around 27 persons were aboard the boat, according to local authorities. Police Commissioner Anupam Singh Gehlot told the BBC as many as seven persons have been rescued from the water, and are undergoing treatment at a nearby hospital. He also said the victims had not been provided with life jackets during the boat ride, according to the Reuters news agency.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to press on with the offensive in Gaza 'until complete victory'

River Jordan, which would include the territory of any future Palestinian State. "This is a necessary condition, and it conflicts with the idea of (Palestinian) sovereignty. What to do? I tell

this truth to our American friends, and I also stopped the attempt to impose a reality on us that would harm Israel's security," he said. (Excerpt from BBC News)

NATO to hold biggest drills since Cold War with 90,000 troops

ATO is launching its largest exercise since the Cold War, rehearsing how U.S. troops could reinforce European allies in countries bordering Russia and on the alliance's eastern flank if a conflict were to flare up with a "near-peer" adversary. Some 90,000 troops are due to join the Steadfast Defender 2024 drills that will run through May, the alliance's top commander Chris Cavoli said on

Thursday. More than 50 ships from aircraft carriers to destroyers will take part, as well as more than 80 fighter jets, helicopters and drones and at least 1100 combat vehicles including 133 tanks and 533 infantry fighting vehicles, NATO said. Cavoli said the drills would rehearse NATO's execution of its regional plans, the first defence plans the alliance has drawn up in decades, detailing how it

would respond to a Russian attack. NATO did not mention Russia by name in its announcement. But its top strategic document identifies Russia as the most significant and direct threat to NATO members' security. "Steadfast Defender 2024 will demonstrate NATO's ability to rapidly deploy forces from North America and other parts of the alliance to reinforce the defence of Europe," NATO said.

The reinforcement will occur during a "simulated emerging conflict scenario with a near-peer adversary", Cavoli told reporters in Brussels after a two-day meeting of national chiefs of defence. The last exercises of a similar size were Reforger – during the Cold War in 1988 with 125,000 participants – and Trident Juncture in 2018 with 50,000 participants, according to NATO. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Pakistan fires retaliatory strike at Iran, stoking regional tension

akistan launched strikes on separatist militants inside Iran on Thursday, in a retaliatory attack two days after Tehran said it struck the bases of another group within Pakistani territory. Iranian media said several missiles hit a village

At least 10 schoolchildren dead after Vadodara vessel capsizes

t least 12 pupils and two teachers are thought to have drowned in western India, after a boat ferrying them to a school picnic capsized on Thursday. Local Police confirmed the number of deaths to BBC Gujarati and said a rescue operation is still ongoing. The cause of the incident, which happened on Harni Lake in Vadodara, in the state of Gujarat, is not

in its offensive and engage in meaningful talks over a sustainable end to the war. Israel's allies, including the US – and many of its foes – have urged a revival of the long-dormant "twoState solution", in which a future Palestinian state would sit side-by-side with an Israeli one. The hope in many circles is that the current crisis could force the warring parties back to diplomacy, as the only viable alternative to endless cycles of violence. But from Netanyahu's comments, his intention appears quite the opposite. During Thursday's news conference, he said Israel must have security control over all land west of the

In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Prime Minister Narendra Modi said "My thoughts are with the bereaved families in this hour of grief". Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said the state government would give 400,000 rupees (US$4800) to the families of the deceased and 50,000 rupees (US$600) to the families of those injured in the accident. (Excerpt from BBC News)

A man watching a news channel on television inside a shop after the Pakistani Foreign Ministry said the country conducted strikes inside Iran targeting separatist militants, two days after Tehran said it attacked Israel-linked militant bases inside Pakistani territory, in Peshawar, Pakistan, January 18, 2024 (Reuters/Fayaz Aziz photo)

in the Sistan-Baluchestan province that borders Pakistan, killing at least nine persons, including four children. The tit-for-tat strikes are the highest-profile cross-border intrusions in recent years and have raised alarm over wider instability in the Middle East since the war between Israel and Hamas erupted on October 7. Advertisement · Scroll to continue

However, both sides appeared to signal a desire to keep the situation contained. Iran's Foreign Ministry said on Thursday it was committed to good neighbourly relations with Pakistan, but called on Islamabad to prevent the establishment of "terrorist bases" on its soil. Pakistan issued a similar statement. "The sole objective of today's act was in pursuit of Pakistan's own

security and national interest, which is paramount and cannot be compromised," the Foreign Ministry said. Meanwhile, the US launched new strikes against Houthi anti-ship missiles aimed at the Red Sea on Thursday, as growing tensions in the region's sea lanes disrupted global trade and raised fears of supply bottlenecks that could reignite inflation. The two anti-ship missiles targeted in the strikes were being prepared by Yemen's Houthis for firing into the Red Sea and deemed "an imminent threat" to shipping and US Navy vessels in the region, the US military said. Attacks by the Iranallied Houthi militia on ships in and around the Red Sea since November have slowed trade between Asia and Europe, and alarmed major powers in an escalation of the war between Israel and Palestinian Hamas militants in Gaza. (Excerpt from Reuters)

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024

guyanatimesgy.com

DAILY HOROSCOPES

ARCHIE

Keep an open mind, but don’t let anyone talk you into something that isn’t feasible. Trust in what’s tangible. Protect your reputation, and don’t let anyone take advantage of you.

(March 21-April 19) Set high standards. You can beat the odds and score big if you put everything you’ve got into realizing your dreams. The sky is the limit, so get moving.

PICKLES (April 20-May 20)

Take nothing for granted and share only what’s necessary. Someone will unexpectedly use your words against you. Be a good listener, and you’ll gain valuable insight.

(May 21-June 20) Give a shout-out to someone you appreciate and respect. What you get in return will change how you move forward. It’s time to stretch your awareness and broaden your skills.

PEANUTS (June 21-July 22)

(July 23-Aug. 22)

Spend time honing your skills or making plans with a loved one. Keep a budget in mind, and don’t commit to anything that might put you in debt or tempt you to indulge. Take care of your responsibilities. Take the lead and do what makes sense. Your practical nature will lead to significant opportunities that allow you to explore something interesting. Attend networking functions.

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

Don’t give up when you need to give your all. Find out what’s going on and deal with anything standing between you and your objective. Anger won’t be the answer; use your brainpower.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

If you don’t like something, initiate a change. Take control to avoid letting someone else decide things for you. Research your options and put a plan in place.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22) Keep close tabs on your money. Don’t invite outside interference into your life. Someone will be happy to cause problems for you if you give them the chance. Concentrate on relationships.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Follow your instincts. Make domestic changes that add to your comfort and decrease stress. Stay on top of institutional matters. Leave nothing to chance or in someone else’s hands. Speak the truth. Think before committing time, skills or money. Understand the implications and be aware of hidden costs. You can help, but don’t take on more than you can handle. Focus on the important things. Put your best foot forward and make your dream a reality. You have plenty to gain if you follow your plans and apply your skills. Don’t let anyone deter you from reaching your goal.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024

GLTA lauds 2024 sport budget

et another sport association has come out in support of this year’s $4.6 billion sport budget that was presented to the National Assembly as part of the 2024 National Budget on Monday last. Joining the Guyana Badminton Association (GBA) in support of the budget, the Guyana Lawn Tennis Association (GLTA) shared the following statement: “The Guyana Lawn Tennis Association welcomes the unprecedented allocation of $4.6B in the 2024 budget to the sport sector. In recent years, the executive of the GLTA has established a close working relationship and camaraderie with the National

The National Racquet Centre’s Tennis Courts were recommissioned in 2023

Sports Commission and the Ministry of Culture, Youth

and Sport. Our frequent interactions have resulted in

needs assessment of the tennis fraternity which resulted

in the fulfilment of many commitments to our sport. These commitments include but are not limited to; 1. Rehabilitation of the National Racquet Centre tennis courts with the installation of lights and new bleachers. 2. Completion of the National Gymnasium tennis court with the installation of lights and bleachers. 3. Support for players to compete at the local and international levels. 4. Support for coaches to be certified and accredited by the International Tennis Federation. 5. Support for the National Tennis Academy. As a result of the

above-mentioned positions, our players and coaches can compete within the Region and enhance their game strategies, fitness levels, and coaching knowledge to align with the goals and objectives of the GLTA. In light of the foregoing, the GLTA looks forward to continued synergies with the National Sports Commission, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, and by extension, the Government of Guyana. Our partnerships thus far have allowed our players, coaches, and officials to grow in their respective areas of expertise and most importantly, alleviated significant financial burdens from the parents of our players.”

Windies Women quartet announce retirement

Shakera Selman

est Indies Women cricketers Anisa M o h a m m e d , Shakera Selman, Kycia Knight and Kyshona Knight have confirmed their retirement from international cricket. Mohammed and Selman both served as Vice Captains during their 20- and 18-year careers respectively. All players recently communicated their decisions to Cricket West Indies (CWI). Mohammed made her debut for the West Indies Women in 2003 at the age of 15 against Japan Women in an International Cricket Council (ICC) Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier in the Netherlands. Her last match was against Australia Women in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in March 2022. She played 141 OneDay Internationals (ODIs) and 117 T20 Internationals (T20Is). She took 180 ODI wickets, with a career best of 7-14 against Pakistan. She took 125 T20I wickets and in 2016, she became the first cricketer (male or female) to take 100 T20I wickets. She also has the distinction of being the first West Indian bowler to take a hat-trick in a Women’s T20I. She was a member of the West Indies Women’s team which won the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup at Eden Gardens in Kolkata,

India in 2016. In her announcement, Mohammed said: “The last 20 years have been truly amazing. I have enjoyed every single minute of it. The highs and the lows. I believe the time has come for me to step away from the game and allow the young players to live their dreams as I have lived mine. I was privileged enough to step onto the

the best possible place to represent the West Indies. To my fans, it has been an honour representing you over the last 20 years. The love, support, encouragement, and respect from you all gave me the motivation to keep doing what love most.” Selman started her international career against Ireland Women in Dublin in

have dismissed a few. My aim was always to inspire and assist others in their dreams. I owe immense gratitude to God, my supportive family and friends, and to CWI, my teammates, and the medical and management teams for their unwavering guidance. To the fans, your support has been my motivation. As I transition to the next phase of my career, I look forward to continuing to share my passion for the game in new ways." The Knight twins Kycia and Kyshona made their debuts for West Indies Women in 2011 and 2013 respectively. Kycia, a left-handed wicketkeeper-batter, holds the record for the most dismissals in Women’s T20I innings with five, as well as the most stumpings in an inning – four and is tied for most catches in an innings, also with 4. She played 87 ODIs, amassing 1327 runs and played 70 T20Is, scoring 801 runs. Kyshona played 51 ODIs, scoring 851 runs and

The Knight twins, Kycia and Kyshona

played 55 T20Is, scoring 546 runs. In their announcement, the Knights said: “As this marks the end of an enjoyable and amazing journey, we would like to take this time to thank our family, friends, teammates & supporters for the continued love and support throughout the years. None of this would’ve been possible without the support and love from you guys and for that we are forever grateful. Lastly, thank you to CWI for the opportunities granted and memories that will be forever cherished”.

CWI’s Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe paid tribute to the four cricketers: “Anisa, Shakera, Kycia and Kyshona have had all made significant individual impacts on women’s cricket, the West Indies and the world. Their dedication, skill, and sportsmanship have not only elevated our team, but also captivated cricket fans worldwide. Their legacies, as members of the title-winning ICC Women’s T20 World Cup squad of 2016 and individual milestones, will continue to influence and guide future generations to aspire to wear the Maroon.”

Registration closes on January 31 for GBF U23 League

T Anisa Mohammed field wearing my maroon 258 times in my career. I have represented West Indies in five ODI World Cups and seven T20 World Cups. To my fellow teammates, thank you for all the love and respect shown to me during my time with you. You'll have made my journey a memorable experience. I would also like to thank WI, coaches, managers, and medical staff for believing in me and always ensuring I was in

2008, and quickly established herself as a key member of the West Indies Women’s team. She played 100 ODIs taking 82 wickets and 96 T20Is taking 51 wickets. Selman was also a member of the 2016 ICC Women’s T20 World Cupwinning squad. In a heartfelt statement, she said: "This marks my final bow after 18 incredible years. I am proud of playing with and against legends, and lucky to

he initiation of the National Under-23 Basketball League by the Guyana Basketball Federation (GBF) underscores a commitment to fostering awareness of basketball while promoting inclusivity within the sport. By specifically targeting individuals under the age of 23 and welcoming both men and women, the League aims to engage a diverse and enthusiastic pool of talent, the Federation has shared. As such, for basketball players eager to participate, the Federation has streamlined the process—interested clubs can express their intent by reaching out through the provided contact number (592- 695- 9502) or by contacting any other GBF executive member. This approach ensures accessibility and encour-

A look at what can be expected in the U23 League

ages the active involvement of various basketball communities. The National Under-23 Basketball League is welcoming non-affiliated players to

contact the Federation for registration, promoting opportunities for both established clubs and individual players, thereby boosting basketball's growth and vibrancy in Guyana.

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024

Elite League 6 kicks off February 25

ollowing the anticipation built up among football fans over the past two weeks as they witnessed two teams fight for and secure their places in the upcoming season of the Elite League; Guyana Football Federation (GFF) President Wayne Forde has confirmed that Season Six of the League will kick off on Sunday, February 25 at the Federation’s National Training Centre (NTC) in Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD). Newly-promoted clubs Monedderlust Football Club and Slingerz FC, who recently fought for their spots, will join the top eight teams from last year’s Fifth Edition of the topflight League. Gearing up for an action-packed Season Six, the GFF has held comprehensive discussions with representatives from all 10 men’s Elite Clubs on proposed fixtures and potential amendments to the rules governing Season Six. President Forde noted, “As

Flashback! A look at last year’s edition of the Elite League

anticipation mounts for the upcoming season, the collaborative efforts between the GFF and these prominent clubs underscore our commitment to ensuring all participating clubs are knowledgeable of the rules and regulations and contribute to the execution of the tourna-

ment by sharing their concerns and ideas.” Season Six will feature defending champions Guyana Defence Force (GDF); Western Tigers; Guyana Police Force (GPF); Fruta Conquerors; Den Amstel; Buxton United; Ann’s Grove United; Santos;

Monedderlust and Slingerz. The last pair of clubs earned their promotion earlier this month through the GFF Elite League Promotion Playoff. Similarly to Season Five, the champions of the upcoming season will be awarded a prize of $2,000,000, while the second,

CWI confirms 2 new teams in 2024 West Indies Championship

ricket West Indies (CWI) on Thursday announced the 2024 West Indies Championship schedule, confirming an expansion in the number of participating teams and rounds for the premier Four-Day competition. After a winning performance in the Headley-Weekes tournament in 2023, the West Indies Academy are all set to make their debut in the West Indies First-Class season, along with the Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC) who are making a return, re-joining the tournament after a few years’ absence. The 2024 West Indies Championship is set to begin in February, with the opening three rounds spanning February 7 to 24. In the first block of games, matches will take place in two host countries, St Kitts and Nevis (two venues – Warner Park and the Conaree Cricket Centre) and Jamaica (three venues – Sabina

GFF President Wayne Forde

surely enhance the quality of the experience for our top competition. I am super excited to experience the product and its potential.” Season Six will span six months and 90 games at venues across the coastland. Match days, predominantly featuring double-headers, will be on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Clubs will engage in a two-round format with the club accumulating the most points crowned as the champions, securing an automatic qualifying spot at the CONCACAF/Caribbean Shield Championships. The GFF Elite League, recognised as the apex of senior men’s competition in the nation, not only represents a prestigious stage for athletes, but also serves as a critical pathway for talent scouting by the national team, as well as regional and international clubs.

The Guyana Harpy Eagles are the defending regional 4-Day champions

Combined Campuses and Colleges, Jamaica Scorpions, Leeward Islands Hurricanes, Trinidad and Tobago Red Force, West Indies Academy and Windward Islands Volcanoes. The 2024 West Indies Championship will have a significant increase in prize money with the winning team receiving US$250,000, while the second-placed team will receive US$100,000. CWI Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Johnny Grave said: “We are pleased to announce the schedule for the upcoming West

A glimpse of what to expect from the West Indies Academy in their inaugural season in the tournament

Park, Kensington Cricket Club, and Chedwin Park). The second block of matches resume on March 13, with the fourth and fifth rounds scheduled to be held in Trinidad and Tobago at the Queen’s Park Oval, the Diego Martin Sports Complex and the Sir Frank Worrell Cricket Ground at UWI Spec, and in Antigua and Barbuda at the Coolidge Cricket Ground. The tournament will then restart after Easter with the final two rounds from April 10 to April 20 in Antigua and Barbuda, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago. The competing eight regional teams fighting for the Headley-Weekes Trophy over seven rounds of matches are – defending champions Guyana Harpy Eagles, Barbados Pride,

third, and fourth-place finishers will receive respective prizes of $1,200,000, $800,000, and $500,000. Once again in preparation for the tournament, each participating team will receive a participation grant of $500,000 prior to the tournament's commencement. GFF Technical Director Bryan Joseph further shared that Club administrators would participate in several workshops focused on the club licensing requirements for participation in the league, media management and interaction, match-day management, laws of the game and technical related matters. This initiative is designed to guarantee the seamless execution of matches during the upcoming season. “We have built up our capacity over the past months and are prepared to implement measures to enhance the operations of the League. The series of workshops are designed to bring alignment to best practices in the Region, including the automation of the competition management systems and match-day structures. This is another step towards the professionalising of the League and its operations.” Joseph added, “Season Six is going to be massive. The partnership with FIFA+ and the availability of a quality surface at the National Training Centre, complete with international standard lighting, will

Indies Championship and welcome two new teams and an expansion in the number of matches. With significant upgrades taking place at all the host venues for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in June and additional improvements being made to the National Stadium in Grenada and Windsor Park in Dominica. We are using nine venues across Jamaica, St Kitts & Nevis, Antigua & Barbuda and Trinidad & Tobago. The eight teams will be fighting hard for the Headley-Weekes Trophy and the new prize money of US$250,000 available to the winning team. All the games will be shown live on our YouTube channel, with live ballby-ball scores on our website so that fans around the Region

and world can watch and follow the competition unfolding over the next three months.” The West Indies Championship will run from February 7 to April 20. Fans can stream all the matches live on the Windies Cricket YouTube channel and access live ball-byball scoring in the match centre.

Tournament schedule West Indies

Championship 2024 February 7 to 10: Jamaica Scorpions v Windward Islands Volcanoes – Sabina Park, Jamaica CCC v Barbados Pride – Chedwin Park, Jamaica Leeward Islands Hurricanes v West Indies Academy – Warner Park, St Kitts Guyana Harpy Eagles v Trinidad & Tobago Red Force – Conaree Cricket Centre, St Kitts February 14 to 17: Jamaica Scorpions v CCC – Sabina Park, Jamaica Barbados Pride v Windward Islands Volcanoes – Kensington Cricket Club, Jamaica Leeward Islands Hurricanes v Guyana Harpy Eagles – Warner Park, St Kitts Trinidad & Tobago Red Force v West Indies Academy – Conaree Cricket Centre, St Kitts February 21 to 24: Jamaica Scorpions v Barbados Pride – Sabina Park, Jamaica Windward Islands Volcanoes v CCC – Chedwin Park, Jamaica Leeward Islands Hurricanes v Trinidad & Tobago Red Force – Warner Park, St Kitts West Indies Academy v Guyana Harpy Eagles – Coolidge Cricket Ground

(CCG), Antigua March 13 to 16: Trinidad & Tobago Red Force v Windward Islands Volcanoes – Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad CCC v Leeward Islands Hurricanes – Diego Martin Regional Complex, Trinidad Guyana Harpy Eagles v Barbados Pride – Sir Frank Worrell Cricket Ground at UWI Spec (UWI SPEC), Trinidad West Indies Academy v Jamaica Scorpions – CCG, Antigua March 20 to 23: Trinidad & Tobago Red Force v Barbados Pride – Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad Leeward Islands Hurricanes v Jamaica Scorpions – Diego Martin Regional Complex, Trinidad Guyana Harpy Eagles v Windward Islands Volcanoes – UWI SPEC, Trinidad West Indies Academy v CCC – CCG, Antigua April 10 to 13: Jamaica Scorpions v Guyana Harpy Eagles – Sabina Park, Jamaica CCC v Trinidad & Tobago Red Force – Chedwin Park, Jamaica Leeward Hurricanes v Barbados Pride – UWI SPEC, Trinidad West Indies Academy v Windward Islands Volcanoes – CCG, Antigua April 17 to 20: Jamaica Scorpions v Trinidad & Tobago Red Force – Sabina Park, Jamaica CCC v Guyana Harpy Eagles – Kensington Cricket Club, Jamaica Leeward Islands Hurricanes v Windward Islands Volcanoes – UWI SPEC, Trinidad West Indies Academy v Barbados Pride – CCG, Antigua

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024

Hazlewood cuts through West Indies after Head’s game-changing hundred …Shamar Joseph’s fine debut continues with 5-wicket haul A

ustralia could not quite complete a two-day victory in Adelaide, but are unlikely to be detained long in wrapping up a win. Josh Hazlewood dismantled West Indies’ top order in ruthless style after Travis Head’s hometown century secured a handy lead on a tricky surface against a spirited visiting attack. From what was a much even contest midway through the day, with Australia six down and still 20 behind, they pulled away as pre-series prediction had suggested they would, although with the bat they were made to earn their position of strength. The game hurtled along, particularly when Head switched on the afterburners. But though West Indies did not begin their second innings until into the last session – with Shamar Joseph completing a memorable debut by claiming a five-wicket haul – there was the looming fear about what could happen against the new ball. And it came to pass as Hazlewood, who finished the day on 4 for 18, had taken out the top four while conceding just two runs; in fact, he had three wickets before even being scored off. He struck with his first ball of the second innings when Tagenarine Chanderpaul’s technical challenges were exposed with an edge to Alex Carey. Soon after, Captain Kraigg Brathwaite could consider himself a little unfortunate when a firm clip off the pads was snapped up by Head at short leg on a day when he could do no wrong. Alick Athanaze gloved a loose hook – and burned a review – the ball after Australia had wasted the DRS for a caught-behind appeal. Kavem Hodge, one of West Indies’ three debutants, edged a drive to second slip as the innings sank to 19 for 4. Kirk McKenzie briefly counterattacked with some crisp strokeplay, especially through the off side, before chipping Cameron Green to cover. At that stage, 40 minutes remained in the day, and it was

far from out of the question if Australia’s bowlers would rattle through the rest. Justin Greaves, who had earlier bowled well on debut, and Joshua Da Silva, provided some resistance, only for Greaves to fall on what became the final ball of the day. Australia successfully reviewed for an lbw for Nathan Lyon, with the ball hitting leg stump from around the wicket. With West Indies still 22 behind, Pat Cummins appeared to briefly ponder asking for the extra half an hour, although there was no certainly the umpires would have granted it. Earlier, the fact Australia had the lead they did was almost entirely down to Head. West Indies had chipped away during the morning session, and when Carey was caught behind, they still trailed. But

Head had entered in just the second over of the day, and dominated on a different level to any other batter in the game. After reaching his century, he flicked the switch and carted Shamar Joseph for consecutive sixes over the leg side. Head and Mitchell Starc added 54 for the seventh wicket to take Australia ahead. After Starc had fended Shamar Joseph to short leg, Cummins provided support in another useful stand until Head picked out deep midwicket aiming for another six. But while the result will likely end horribly one-sided, it should not detract from the performance of Shamar Joseph, whose fifth

Australia celebrate their successful review late in the day

Travis Head’s seventh Test hundred gave Australia the lead Head hit 119 off just 134 balls

Head sped into the 90s with a flurry of runs against Shamar Joseph, and brought up his century from 122 balls when he dispatched left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie through the covers. It was his first Test century since the World Test Championship final against India in June, and the first time he had passed fifty since the Headingley Test in the Ashes.

Shamar Joseph struck in his first over on the second day to dismiss Cameron Green

Shamar Joseph leads the team out after his maiden five-for

wicket came when he speared one through Lyon with the second new ball. He walked off to a standing ovation, and gave the crowd a bow.

In his first over of the day, he was taken for consecutive boundaries by Green, but responded by finding the outside edge next ball with a perfect delivery which moved away a frac-

Olympic Solidarity Archery Coaching Course underway

tion and sent the bowler on another sprint celebration across the Adelaide Oval outfield the morning after he had become a story around the world. Shamar and Alzarri Joseph maintained early pressure on Head and Usman Khawaja, the latter happy to bide his time, but the former keen to be aggressive although not always at his most fluent. Once Green fell, West Indies quickly went to a short-ball plan against Head, although the surface did not quite have the pace in it to be hugely problematic. Head went past 3000 Test runs with a lofted drive over the covers as the partnership started to dominate. Khawaja was shaping up well, putting a couple of pulls away strongly through midwicket, while Head also deposited Greaves into the

stands over square leg. But just as concerns were growing as to whether West Indies could maintain the pressure, the medium pace of Greaves lured Khawaja into driving a wide delivery, and the edge was well held at second slip for his first Test wicket. Mitchell Marsh struggled early in his innings, multiple times edging short of the cordon, and had one off 22 balls before he laced a cover drive off Shamar Joseph. However, it was not a sign of a change in fortune. After another edge fell short of third slip, Greaves moved up even closer, wearing a helmet, and brilliantly held the opportunity off Kemar Roach. Australia were 129 for 5 and West Indies had a glimmer of staying in the game – but a few hours later, they were just trying to make the third day. (ESPNcricinfo)

SCOREBOARD

nternational World Archery Coach Trainer Ludys Carina Tejada arrived in Guyana for the much-anticipated fiveday Olympic Solidarity Coaching Course, which began Thursday at the National Racquet Centre, Woolford Avenue. The course is being held under the auspic-

Participants engaged in the coaching course

es of Olympic Solidarity, the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) and Archery Guyana. At the opening ceremony, Archery Guyana President Vidushi PersaudMcKinnon declared the session open. She charged the 21 participants to complete the course successfully and to return to their various

regions and schools to take the sport forward. Some of the schools represented are Kawata Primary Top, Santa Rosa Secondary, Sand Creek Secondary, Aishalton Secondary, Nappi Primary Top, Katoka Primary Top, Queen’s College, Qayyim Academy, ISA Islamic School, Saraswati Vidya Niketan School and School

of the Nations. Also delivering remarks was former President of Archery Guyana and current National Judge and Competitions Committee Chair, Ryan McKinnon, who gave participants an overview as to the governing body for archery in Guyana, the background and wished them well.

Australia 1st Innings BATTING R Steven Smith c Greaves b S Joseph 12 Usman Khawaja c Athanaze b Greaves 45 Marnus Labuschagne c Motie b S Joseph 10 Cameron Green c †Da Silva b S Joseph 14 Travis Head c Hodge b AS Joseph 119 Mitchell Marsh c Greaves b Roach 5 Alex Carey † c †Da Silva b Greaves 15 Mitchell Starc c Chanderpaul b S Joseph 10 Pat Cummins (c) b Roach 12 Nathan Lyon b S Joseph 24 Josh Hazlewood not out 0 Extras (lb 8, nb 9) 17 TOTAL 81.1 Ov (RR: 3.48) 283 Fall of wickets: 1-25 (Steven Smith, 8.1 ov), 2-45 (Marnus Labuschagne, 14.5 ov), 3-67 (Cameron Green, 22.5 ov), 4-113 (Usman Khawaja, 37.3 ov), 5-129 (Mitchell Marsh, 43.3 ov), 6-168 (Alex Carey, 54.6 ov), 7-222 (Mitchell Starc, 67.4 ov), 8-255 (Travis Head, 73.1 ov), 9-283 (Nathan Lyon, 80.6 ov), 10-283 (Pat Cummins, 81.1 ov) • BOWLING Kemar Roach Alzarri Joseph Shamar Joseph

O-M-R-W 16.1-5-48-2 18-2-55-1 20-2-94-5

Gudakesh Motie Justin Greaves

12-1-42-0 15-3-36- 2

West Indies 2nd Innings BATTING R Kraigg Brathwaite (c) c Head b Hazlewood 1 Tagenarine Chanderpaul c †Carey b Hazlewood 0 1 Kirk McKenzie c Labuschagne b Green 26 Alick Athanaze c †Carey b Hazlewood 0 Kavem Hodge c Smith b Hazlewood 3 Justin Greaves lbw b Lyon 24 Joshua Da Silva † not out 17 Extras (lb 1, nb 1) 2 TOTAL 22.5 Ov (RR: 3.19) 73/6 Yet to bat: Alzarri Joseph, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph, Kemar Roach Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Tagenarine Chanderpaul, 1.1 ov), 2-1 (Kraigg Brathwaite, 3.2 ov), 3-7 (Alick Athanaze, 5.4 ov), 4-19 (Kavem Hodge, 9.3 ov), 5-40 (Kirk McKenzie, 13.2 ov), 6-73 (Justin Greaves, 22.5 ov) • BOWLING Mitchell Starc Josh Hazlewood Pat Cummins Cameron Green Nathan Lyon

O-M-R-W 4-1-16-0 8-4-18-4 5-1-25-0 3-0-9-1 2.5-0-4 -1

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024

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

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Elite League 6 kicks Olympic Solidarity Archery Coaching Course underway off February 25 Pg 23

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