Prison trade instructor training programme launched with CPCE
China Road and Bridge Corp chosen to build Corentyne River Bridge
…contract pending finalisation of financing mechanism – Edghill
Massive overhaul needed for insurance industry in Guyana – VP
…anticipates legislative upgrades to complement other financial reforms
2nd power ship to arrive this week – GPL CEO
…expected to be connected before Christmas
“The motorbike smash up into pieces” – brother of teen killed in Berbice crash
Linden Town Clerk blasts Mayor for poor financial management
Electric buses a modern fix for Guyana’s traffic woes, environmental goals – Edghill
Improvised weapons, ganja found during prison raid
Demand for incountry fabrication services at its highest yet – Routledge
Construction of GPF training academy at Dora on schedule
Systems in place to prevent price gouging when cash grants distributed –Finance Minister
Bahamas rejects US request to accept deportees
The Guyana Tourism Authority's Junior Cooking Showcase brought together young culinary talents from Regions Five, Six, and Nine for
Massive overhaul needed for insurance industry in Guyana – VP …anticipates legislative upgrades to complement other financial reforms
Guyana’s insurance industry is one that is ripe for upgrades, with Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo acknowledging that there is much that needs improving in the insurance industry such as better compensation for drivers who get into accidents… improvements that are becoming ever more necessary as Guyana’s economy continues to grow.
During his recent press conference, Jagdeo noted that the Government is open to exploring ways of
improving the insurance landscape and further, insurance sector legislation is likely in the future. He compared the insurance sector to the financial one, noting that while it has grown significantly, there is still much room for improvement.
“So too with the insurance sector. that has to be upgraded significantly. So, the depth of the insurance industry in Guyana, like with our banking system. They’re still too shallow. The financial sector has grown significantly, but
when you look at its asset base, it cannot service a $20 billion economy, in a manner that would be permissive of its rapid growth. They don’t have the assets and instruments. Because many of the instruments are dated and not modern enough.”
“For example, vehicles, if you get into an accident now, the compensation is very small. But if we raise the compensation level, they would raise premiums for every person. So sometimes these things have unintended consequences. But you do have to explore them as the economy gets larger. But you have to pace yourself,” Jagdeo said.
The vice president also noted that changes to the laws governing insurance would be part and parcel of the Government’s efforts to improve the fiscal space and create a more enabling environment… something the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government has already made progress in.
“All of the changes that are being made to create a more enabling environment, that often slip past many people, they don’t notice the changes but they are very profound. So, if you look, for example, at the condominium Act. That act in itself would allow a massive growth of what is
country, but where they have to be regulated for privacy purposes and protection of the citizens,” the Vice President said.
Jagdeo also recalled the Government’s tabling of the Security Interests in Movable Property Bill 2024 last month. This bill had introduced a national
already happening. People building condos for sale.”
“And these are all opportunities that grew out of the local content law, when we prohibited the oil and gas companies from renting from foreigners. So just that example. Then, for example, the data privacy act, how that could help with developing a whole range of services that are needed in the
registry to record security interests, in order to allow banks and other creditors to verify whether the movable asset being offered had been previously pledged as collateral.
“So, people can get loans now, on something that is moveable. A vehicle for example. They can use it to collateralise a loan. They can maybe take small loans out of the ve -
hicles, etc. In the past, the banks would insist on fixed assets. So, its that sort of growth that will happen in the future,” Jagdeo added.
The private sector has been vocal about the need for access to finance to be addressed, at one point calling out continued bureaucracy at commercial banks hindering access to financing. The PPP/C has also consistently urged the banking industry to be more proactive.
As a matter of fact, one of the strategies being pursued by the Government to address access to finance, which has been a long-standing challenge in Guyana for entrepreneurs, includes efforts to attract a large, international bank to Guyana’s shores.
During the recent Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) 29th Annual Awards and Dinner, Jagdeo had in fact assured that the Government is actively exploring the re-establishment of a development bank in Guyana. (G3)
Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Monday, December 9 –23:45h01:15h and Tuesday, December 10 – No retraction.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Monday, December 9 – 10:40h12:10h and Tuesday, December 10 – 11:45h-13:35h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Thundery to light showers are expected throughout the day and at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 22 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East North-Easterly to Easterly between 1.79 metres and 4.02 metres.
High Tide: 11:09h and 23:41h reaching maximum heights of 2.33 metres and 2.34 metres.
Low Tide: 17:10h reaching a minimum height of 0.89 metre.
China Road and Bridge Corp chosen to build Corentyne
Guyana and Suriname have settled on Chinese construction company, China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), as the preferred contractor for highly anticipated Corentyne River Bridge that will link the two South American neighbours.
Public Works Minister, Juan Edghill, on Sunday confirmed to Guyana Times that the two sides have agreed on the potential contractor.
“The evaluation committee of both Guyana and Suriname has a preferred contractor but we don’t have a contract [as yet]. We have a preferred contractor,” he stated.
According to Edghill, the contract between the contractor and the two countries will be signed as soon as the financing mechanism for the bridge is sorted out.
Both Guyana and Suriname had written the Government of China for financing of the bridge project. In fact, Surinamese President, Chandrikapersad Santokhi, delivered a letter jointly signed by himself and President Dr Irfaan Ali, to President Xi Jinping during a visit back in April of this year, seeking concessional financing for the Corentyne bridge.
Guyana Times was previously told by a senior Guyana Government official that the Chinese Government is willing to fund the project given its close bilateral relations with both the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) its Member States.
However, the issue lies in Suriname’s economic situation. As part of its economic recovery programme, the Surinamese Government signed a structural adjustment programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to restore its macroeconomic stability. This programme makes it difficult for the Dutchspeaking country to take out loans, hence the snag in the process of securing financing for the bridge project. Both Guyana and Suriname are meant to share the cost of the bridge construction in a 50-50 arrangement.
Back in February, President Santokhi had ad-
mitted to the challenges his country faces when it comes to securing the financing for the Corentyne River Bridge project.
“You know, our case is little bit different because we are bind by the IMF (International Monetary Fund) programme so we cannot take the loan. So, we need to be very pragmatic in this,” the Surinamese President had told reporters on the sidelines of the CARICOM Head of Government Meeting in Georgetown.
Initially, the plan was to have the bridge built according to a Design-BuildFinance-Operate-Maintain (DBFOM) model. This means that whichever company is contracted to build the bridge will be responsible for its design, construction, financing, operation, and maintenance. It will also be constructed via a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement.
In October 2023, two companies – the Chineseowned (CRBC) and Dutch engineering company, Ballast Nedam – submitted proposals to construct the bridge over the Corentyne River. However, those companies subsequently indicated that they were unable to meet the pre-financing requirement hence the move to seek funding from the Chinese Government.
Meanwhile, as the financial arrangements are being finalised, Guyana has already commenced preparatory works for the Corentyne River Bridge, which will serve as a critical structure for not just the movement of people
and goods between the two countries but also for the region as well.
In July, Minister Edghill had disclosed that roads and bridges are being built from Moleson Creek to El Dorado in Region Six (East Berbice/ Corentyne) that will lead to the site of the new bridge from Guyana’s end.
The high-span Corentyne River bridge will run approximately 3.1 kilometres, connecting Moleson Creek in Guyana to South Drain in Suriname with a landing on Long Island in the Corentyne River, where a commercial hub and tourist destination will be established. That free zone will see major infrastructural development such as hotels, recreational parks, entertainment spots, tourist attractions, malls, and farmers’ markets.
This bridge project is one of the first agreements between Presidents Ali and Santokhi, with both Heads previously underscoring the critical role the bridge across the Corentyne River would play in advancing cooperation, creating more opportunities for development for both countries.
Back in May of 2022, a US$2 million contract was
signed in Paramaribo for several preliminary studies and research to be conducted on the Corentyne bridge by WSP Caribbean. The Expressions of Interest (EoIs) were also simultaneously launched.
In June 2023, WSP Caribbean presented the design of the Corentyne River bridge to Minister Edghill and his Surinamese counterpart, Minister Riad Nurmohamed, of a two-section structure that is connected via Long Island. The design also features a twolane bridge with accommodation for a third lane in case of an emergency.
Running from Moleson Creek to Long Island, the bridge will be a low-level structure, approximately one kilometre long; with a 2200-metre (2.2 km) road across Long Island and a high bridge, spanning 2100 metres (2.1 km) thereafter. At the high end of the bridge, which will facilitate marine traffic, it will cater for 40,000 to 45,000 DWT (deadweight tonnage) capacity featuring a vertical (height) clearance of 43 metres and a horizonal (width) clearance of about 100 metres. (Vahnu Manikchand)
The proposed design of the Corentyne River Bridge
Editor: Tusika Martin
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Seeking to divide
Nicolás Maduro, who kept hold of the Venezuelan presidency even though he refused to show any proof that he had won the July elections in his country, commemorated the anniversary of the referendum he had held last December 4, 2023, to claim legitimacy for his plan to annex our Essequibo, which forms two-thirds of our national territory. He deployed Essequibo-themed music over the airwaves, nationally televised history lessons, murals, rallies and social media content to generate and claim a high turnout in the referendum.
Maduro has proven to be an implacable enemy of Guyana after oil was discovered off our shores in 2015. Before that, the controversy his predecessors had created over our border had festered since they lodged their claim at the UN in 1962. Maduro invoked the controversy as part of a “grey-zone war” – a middle, unclear space that exists between direct conflict and peace in international relations – to distract Venezuelans as he tightens his grasp on power while their country is sucked into a black hole of economic, political and social devastation.
Maduro piggybacked on the referendum to call on his legislature enact a law to “annex” our Essequibo and create a new state called “Guayana Esequiba”. He issued decrees for companies in the region – including offshore oil companies –to leave, since they would be issuing licences to companies of their choosing. In late March 2024, his legislature duly “created” this new state. As part of his grey-zone war, last December, even as he rallied troops near our border, Maduro sought to mask his bellicosity by employing his close ally PM Ralph Gonsalves of St Vincent to convene a meeting between he and President Ali.
However, in calling for a “dialogue”, PM Gonsalves’s invitation assumed a false equivalence between the position taken by Maduro for Venezuela and President Ali for Guyana. He baldly stated that everyone was “aware that the Government of Guyana is seeking the resolution of the border controversy through the processes of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) which is currently seized of the matter…We are cognisant, too, that the Government of Venezuela has rejected the path of the ICJ as the modality for resolution.” The matter was before the ICJ pursuant to the Geneva Agreement, which Venezuela had signed and Venezuela was behaving as a rogue state to deny its jurisdiction. The meeting at Argyle, St Vincent was in line with Venezuela’s long-standing position that the controversy be dealt with through direct negotiations.
In the diplomatic aspect of war in the grey zone, Maduro has selectively exploited the concessions it once doled out under the Petrocaribe agreement on oil. In 2022, it cancelled all of St Vincent’s oil debt and shipped in 23,000 barrels, even as it was to extort US$500 million from impoverished Haiti for its debt. After the July elections where Maduro refused to release the voting machine tallies – exactly as the APNU/AFC coalition had done with their SoPs here in 2020 – Gonsalves asserted that the elections had been free and fair and that Guyana should support Maduro rather than the Venezuelan Opposition that had demonstrated they had won.
And we arrive at President Ali’s recent meeting with new commander Admiral Alvin Holsey of SOUTHCOM at their headquarters in Florida, along with the incumbent US Ambassador Nicole D Theriot and her predecessor, Sara-Ann Lynch, who is now an advisor to SOUTHCOM. Speaking on his programme <<<Con Maduro Live de Repente>>> about the referendum on Thursday, December 5, Maduro was livid in reference to Pres Ali’s meeting on our defence and security concerns. Interestingly, he addressed Caricom: “Alert, Caricom, alert, the Southern Command is provoking our region and here is Venezuela, ready, prepared, firm in the defence of its historical rights.”
Echoing members of the Opposition and a number of Opposition-aligned commentators here, Maduro declared to Caricom that President Ali’s position was “shameful, because nothing moves in Guyana unless there is an order from ExxonMobil… Really, it is very shameful for the dignity of the Caribbean peoples.”
Maduro will not cease his war against Guyana.
Assad’s regime has been toppled – but what will fill the vacuum in Syria?
By Simon TiSdall
For once, use of the word “historic” is justified in describing the toppling of Bashar al-Assad’s regime after more than 50 years of brutal dictatorship, 13 years of on-off civil war and a world of suffering. The people of Syria, or most of them at least, are jubilant. They should enjoy the moment. They deserve it. It recalls the celebrations that accompanied the fall of Iraq’s Saddam Hussein and Libya’s Muammar Gaddafi. Yet such memories carry a warning and a threat.
The warning is that joy can quickly turn to tears, and liberation to renewed repression, should the sudden collapse of hated but relatively stable authoritarian structures trigger an uncontainable descent into chaos. The threat is that the ensuing political and military vacuum will be contested by self-seeking actors interested not in justice and reconciliation, but power and retribution. In Syria, revenge is a dish served hot – and it’s back on the menu.
The beginning of the campaign to oust Assad can be traced back to Daraa, in south-western Syria, the scene of a popular revolt in 2011. In that context, the successful advance of the militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) from its base in Idlib, in north-west Syria, to the capital, Damascus, is a fitting ending: a popular revolution by the people, for the people. Yet no one can yet tell what kind of Syrian future is envisaged by the HTS leader, Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, formerly an al-Qaida-linked jihadist and a wanted terrorist rebranded as national liberator. HTS has a record of human rights abuses and authoritarian rule in Idlib.
Many Syrians reportedly flocked to the HTS banner as Jolani’s forces drove south. But other groups, with
different aims and interests, are moving quickly to exploit the crisis. They include a coalition of Kurdish-led nationalist militias in the northeast – the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces; Turkishbacked rebel factions collectively known as the Syrian National Army; and opposition groups in the south, united by hatred of Assad but perhaps not much else.
Can the prewar Syrian mosaic – multi-ethnic, multi-religious, unusually tolerant and secular – be pieced back together? Is Jolani a man fit to lead a nation? Who else might prevent an anarchic territorial and political fracturing? No one has answers to these questions as yet. The regime’s prime minister, Mohammed Ghazi Jalali, announced that, unlike the wretched Assad, he is staying put and is ready to work with the insurgents. Brave words, and hopefully not his last.
The challenges ahead are truly daunting. The civil war killed more than 300,000 people, although some estimates are double that figure. About 100,000 people are believed missing or forcibly disappeared since 2011. Where are they? A terrible accounting now begins. Half the population – about 12 million people – are displaced. Tens of thousands were detained without trial, tortured, abused. Their prisons are now emptying, sending a tide of angry, embittered, physically and psychologically scarred and vengeful people back into a devastated, already dysfunctional society. Millions of refugees, in Turkey and Jordan, may head home en masse. Humanitarian and security calamities loom.
Destructive foreign meddling – central to the story of Syria since the war began –is another very real threat if things fall apart. Assad’s toppling represents a huge defeat for his main sponsors, Russia
and Iran. Vladimir Putin moved into Syria in 2015 after the then US President, Barack Obama, backed off, prioritising counter-terrorism over support for pro-democracy forces. Russian air force bombers, along with Iranian Revolutionary Guards, kept Assad in power. Putin’s reward was military bases and increased leverage. All that’s imperilled now.
For Iran, the Syrian collapse is but the latest in a string of reverses linked to Israel’s fightback after the October 7, 2023 Hamas terrorist attacks. Israel’s degradation of Hezbollah in Lebanon, Tehran’s key ally in the so-called region-wide “axis of resistance”, denied Assad another important prop and rendered more vulnerable Iran’s position. Its embassy in Damascus is reportedly under attack. Its diplomats have fled. Yet neither Russia nor Iran will give up. They will seek to shape the new order to their advantage, regardless of what’s best for Syrian people.
Much the same may be said of Israel which, in its campaign against Hamas and other Iranian proxies, has repeatedly bombed what it says are Iranian and Hezbollah targets in Damascus and elsewhere in Syria. Tehran sees Israel’s hand in Assad’s downfall. Though perhaps not deliberately, Israel – following the law of unintended consequences – certainly helped undermine him. Now it worries about a failed state on its border, who is in control of Assad’s chemical weapons, and a possibly renewed Islamist jihadist threat.
Talking of own goals, that former footballer Recep Tayyip Erdo?an, President of Turkey, is well in the lead. He is thought to have given HTS the green light to launch its offensive after Assad rebuffed his attempts to create a border buffer zone inside Syria. Erdo?an is obsessed with the
Kurdish “threat” from northern Syria and Iraq. He may now send more troops across the border. Yet did he really intend to smash the regime and trigger chaos throughout Syria? Maybe Erdo?an could explain how that serves Turkey’s interests. Unless the darker conspiracy theories are believed, the US, Britain and Europe have been just as surprised by events as Assad. That in itself is an alarming intelligence failure – but then again, the West’s record throughout the Syrian war has been one long, abject failure. It largely looked on as the most terrible suffering, mass displacement, war crimes, illegal use of chemical weapons and other horrors unfolded. Its occasional interventions – such as Donald Trump’s one-off 2017 bombing of regime military facilities after a chemical weapons attack in Khan Sheikhun in Idlib – were undertaken more to ease collective consciences than to effect real change. Now the West plays spectator again – although the threat posed by state failure is urgent. “It’s not our fight,” says Trump smugly.
No use looking, either, to Arab neighbours in the Gulf for help at this critical moment. Just over a year ago, Assad succeeded in shattering his well-earned international pariah status at an Arab League summit in Riyadh. He was feted by, among others, the Saudi leader, Mohammed bin Salman. The not-so-diplomatic message was that Assad was back. Rehabilitated. The world could do business with him again.
Wrong. Assad was a monster and he still is. Wherever he’s gone, he should not sleep easy. In the meantime, it falls to the Syrian people to save Syria. No one else will. (The Guardian)
(Simon Tisdall is the Observer’s foreign affairs commentator)
Maria, a six-year-old girl from Chhattisgarh state, displays her tight rope walking skills to attract alms from people at a roadside in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India (VOA)
Jonestown Memorial Tour
Dear Editor,
This letter serves as a response to recent opposing views regarding the Jonestown Memorial Tour and its value as part of Guyana’s historical narrative. As the tour operator behind the Jonestown Memorial Tour, I wish to address some misconceptions and explain the purpose and approach of this experience.
Jonestown is undeniably a tragic part of Guyana’s history, but it is also an event of global significance, offering critical lessons about cult psychology, manipulation, and the abuse of power. Our tour does not seek to exploit or sensationalize the tragedy, it is
a carefully researched and thoughtfully designed experience aimed at educating those who want to understand what happened, why it happened, and the lessons the world can draw from it.
This initiative is not for everyone, nor do we present it as a typical tourist attraction. It is for those who are curious, reflective, and committed to ensuring that history does not repeat itself. Our work has involved extensive research, fact-checking, interviews, and community engagement. The people of Port Kaituma, who lived on the periphery of Jonestown have been integral to this process and have welcomed
the effort to tell the full story.
Throughout the world, there are numerous examples of tours that explore challenging histories to educate and foster awareness. For instance, the AuschwitzBirkenau Memorial in Poland, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial in Japan, and the 9/11 Memorial in the United States all serve as sites of reflection and education. These locations attract visitors not to revel in tragedy but to better understand the events, honor those affected, and ensure that such histories are not repeated or forgotten. The Jonestown Memorial Tour follows a similar purpose. While some view
Jonestown as a stain on Guyana, we see it as an opportunity to reclaim the narrative. For too long, misconceptions have dominated public perception, painting an inaccurate image of Guyana’s role in the events. The reality is that Jonestown was primarily an American tragedy that occurred on Guyanese soil. The majority of those involved victims and perpetrators were Americans, drawn into the orbit of Jim Jones and his manipulative practices long before they arrived in our country.
As a nation, we should not shy away from history, however difficult it may be. To do so is to ignore the opportunity to educate others
about the dangers of blind allegiance and unchecked power. Guyana has much to be proud of, but our history, like that of any nation, includes moments that demand reflection and understanding.
It is important to clarify that our guides are thoroughly trained and knowledgeable. This is not a casual retelling of events; it is a carefully curated experience that contextualizes Jonestown within broader social, political, and psychological frameworks. We are committed to telling this story accurately and respectfully, ensuring that those who take the tour leave with a deeper understanding of the complexities
surrounding the tragedy. Jonestown will always be a challenging topic, but to pretend it did not happen or to avoid addressing it is to do a disservice to history. Our aim is to ensure that those who choose to visit leave with knowledge, perspective, and a recognition of the resilience of the Guyanese people and communities like Port Kaituma, who have lived in the shadow of these events for decades.
Sincerely, Roselyn Sewcharran, Tour Operator, Jonestown Memorial Tour Wanderlust Adventures GY
AFC leader continues to demonstrate why he is unfit, unqualified to be presidential material
Dear Editor, I am blocked from the AFC’s, Nigel Hughes and David Patterson’s Facebook pages; hence, I have to rely on third hand information. I understand that at their last press conference or whatever press engagement they had, that Nigel Hughes claimed that US$5 billion from the oil resources are unaccounted for.
The AFC leader continues to demonstrate why he is unfit and unqualified to be presidential material for Guyana. He is absolutely clueless when it comes to public finance, fiscal management and accountability matters. It shows how divorced from reality he is, how desperate, deceitful, disingenuous and devious he is, and by extension, the AFC.
First and foremost, the AFC’s reckless assertion can be easily dis -
proven. In this regard, as of September 2024, the Natural Resources Fund (NRF) balance was US$3.2 billion net of withdrawals. Here it is proven that 60% of the earnings (profit oil + royalty) from the oil resources to date remains untouched. We have only spent US$2.2 billion (41%) thus far. And for context, public service wages and salary alone for the same period amounted to US$2.3 billion.
I wonder what is their obsession with only the oil resources’ earnings, what about the non-oil revenues and earnings from the carbon credit proceeds?
From 2020-2024, non-oil revenues will amount to US$7.4 billion, that is 37% more than the oil revenues earned from non-oil sources over the same period.
Further, under the PPP/C administration, every cent is accounted for in
accordance with the financial laws of the country, and every cent is audited as per the Auditor General Report, which is subject to scrutiny by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) that the Opposition Chairs.
On the contrary, the APNU+AFC hid the US$18 million signing bonus from ExxonMobil in violation of the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act;
they ran up an illegal overdraft of over $140 billion on the government deposit accounts at the Bank of Guyana that was unaccounted for; there was the illegal spending on the capital budget after the no-confidence motion between 2019-2020, amounting to another $142 billion, thereby bringing the grand total to $286 billion that remained unaccounted for by the APNU+AFC,
and unlawfully expended during their tenure in 2015-2020.
Sincerely, Joel Bhagwandin
Page Foundation
Customary Units of Liquid Volume
Liquid volume is the amount of liquid a container can hold. The customary units of liquid volume (that is the units commonly used) are cups (c); pints (pt); quarts (qt); and gallons (gal). 1 pint = 2 c 1 quart = 2 pt 1 gallon = 4 qt
You can compare these units to each other.
Example:
How many cups are in a gallon?
Step 1: You know that there are 4 quarts in a gallon, and there are 2 pints in a quart. So multiply the number of quarts x 2 to find out how many pints are in a gallon.
Step 2: 4 x 2 = 8 pints in a gallon.
Step 3: You know that there are 2 cups in a pint. So multiply the number of pints x 2.
Step 4: 8 x 2 = 16 cups in a gallon.
The standard units of measurement that should be used in Guyana are the metric measurements. It is necessary to know customary units of length to convert them to metric units.
Remember: You do not have to add the plural s when you abbreviate units of measurement.
Exercises: Convert
1) 1 gallon equals how many pints?
2) 4 quarts equal how many gallons?
3) An 8-gallon gas tank holds how many quarts?
4) 50 cups equal how many pints? 5) 6 quarts is how many cups?
Be sound detectives!
Play this simple game with a friend to explore how one action or event causes another. Create mystery sounds with objects from around the house and see if you can figure out what’s causing the sounds!
Supply list
At least 2 objects for each player that make sounds such as toys that squeak, keys that rattle, etc. A paper bag or other container for each player to hide their objects in (optional)
Directions
1. Explain to your friend that you’re going to play a detective game. You will be Detective #1 and your friend will be Detective #2. Each of you should find two objects that you can use to make noise, but don’t let the other person see them! If they are small enough, you could hide the objects in a paper bag.) Don’t let the other person see what’s in the bag! When you are ready, sit facing each other. Ask Detective #2 (your friend) to close their eyes.
2. Connect the cause and effect. Detective #1
takes one of the objects and makes a noise with it.
For example, if the object is a set of keys, Detective #1 jingles them to make a noise. Detective #1 asks, “What sound do you hear? What’s causing it?” Detective #1 can also ask additional questions such as, “Does it sound loud or quiet? Does it sound like it comes from a big or small object?”
Give your friend plenty of time to figure out what’s causing the sound before revealing the answer. For example, if Detective #2 guesses incorrectly right away, encourage them to listen again and make a few more guesses before revealing the mystery object. Offer some hints, if needed.
3. Once Detective #2 has made their final guess, Detective #1 should reveal what made the sound! Did Detective #2 guess right?
4. Pause and think. Talk about what happened. Ask your friend questions, such as, “How can you know what causes a sound even when you can’t see it?”
5. Play again! Switch places and play again.
6.Connect the cause and effect. Detective #2 takes chooses one of their objects and makes a noise with it. For example, if the object is a zipper, pull the zipper up and down. Detective #2 asks, “What sound do you hear? What’s causing it?”
Before you answer, talk out loud about what you think could be causing the sound and why you think that. Your friend will learn by listening to you.
7. Once Detective #1 has made their final guess, Detective #2 should reveal what made the sound! Did Detective #1 guess right?
8. Pause and think. Talk about what happened. Ask your friend questions, such as, “How can you know what causes a sound even when you can’t see it?” and “Why is it sometimes difficult to know what exactly is causing a sound?”
9. Switch places and play again. Keep taking turns until you’ve listened to all the mystery objects.
10. Share and reflect on what you did. Talk with your friend about the sounds you made and connect the sounds to cause and effect. Ask your friend questions: “Why were some sounds easier to figure out than others? How did we know what caused the sounds even though we couldn’t see the objects? Can we make different sounds with the same mystery object? How would we do that?” Challenge your friend to listen to sounds around your house. Ask them what they hear and what is causing the sound. (Adapted from pbs.org)
BY PHILLIS WHEATLEY PETERS
Though Winter frowns to Fancy's raptur'd eyes The fields may flourish, and gay scenes arise; The frozen deeps may break their iron bands, And bid their waters murmur o'er the sands. Fair Flora may resume her fragrant reign, And with her flow'ry riches deck the plain; Sylvanus may diffuse his honours round, And all the forest may with leaves be crown'd: Show'rs may descend, and dews their gems disclose, And nectar sparkle on the blooming rose.
Such is thy pow'r, nor are thine orders vain, O thou the leader of the mental train: In full perfection all thy works are wrought, And thine the sceptre o'er the realms of thought. Before thy throne the subject-passions bow, Of subject-passions sov'reign ruler thou; At thy command joy rushes on the heart, And through the glowing veins the spirits dart.
Fancy might now her silken pinions try To rise from earth, and sweep th' expanse on high: From Tithon's bed now might Aurora rise, Her cheeks all glowing with celestial dies, While a pure stream of light o'erflows the skies. The monarch of the day I might behold, And all the mountains tipt with radiant gold, But I reluctant leave the pleasing views, Which Fancy dresses to delight the Muse; Winter austere forbids me to aspire, And northern tempests damp the rising fire; They chill the tides of Fancy's flowing sea, Cease then, my song, cease the unequal lay.
Electric buses a modern fix for Guyana’s traffic woes, environmental goals – Edghill
…says other variables, infrastructure costs must also be considered
In recent weeks, suggestions have come from the private sector that Guyana should go the route of improving its public transportation sector, including with the introduction of electric buses. While acknowledging it as a progressive move with many benefits for Guyana, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill has also warned that other factors must be weighed.
Sharing his thoughts with this publication in an invited comment, Edghill first acknowledged the pros of the suggestion. Using Georgetown as an example, he noted that the city’s current reliance on private vehicles and minibuses have added to traffic congestion and transportation woes for many residents.
“An upgraded system would not only alleviate these issues but also align with the Government's infrastructure development plans, promoting sustainable growth and enhanced
stewardship. This shift would improve air quality in Georgetown, benefiting public health by reducing pollutants that contribute to respiratory illnesses,” Edghill also noted.
When it comes to job creation, Edghill noted the potential for new jobs in areas such as electric vehicle maintenance and charging infrastructure management. Edghill also pointed out that electric buses have fewer moving parts than tradition engines, contributing to lower maintenance and offsetting the cost of the initial investment.
In addition to aligning with the People’s Progressive Party (PPP/C) Government’s infrastructure development plans, Edghill also expressed the view that investments in a more modern public transportation system would boost tourism and present Georgetown as a more progressive and visitor-friendly city.
This is in addition to the
transportation.
Cons
As much as there are a lot of positives in the proposal, Edghill also acknowledged the counter-arguments including the current lack of charging infrastructure necessary to support electric buses. However, one possible solution could be Public/Private Partnerships.
“Addressing this concern requires strategic planning and investment. The Government can collaborate with private sector partners to develop a network of charging stations, possibly leveraging renewable energy sources like solar power to make the system even more sustainable. Phased implementation allows for gradual infrastructure development while training the workforce needed to maintain the new system,” he said.
Another concern acknowledged by Edghill is the upfront capital costs
quality of life for citizens. Implementing electric big buses would significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment.”
“As global concerns about climate change intensify, transitioning to electric public transport demonstrates proactive leadership and a commitment to environmental
benefits to citizens themselves who rely on public transportation to get to work, school and to access healthcare. Perhaps one of the greatest selling points of a more modern, comfortable and reliable public transportation system is that it would alleviate traffic congestion, as more and more citizens utilised it to travel instead of private
with purchasing these electric buses and building out the required infrastructure, though again the long-term gains are likely to outweigh these negatives.
“While this is a valid point, it's important to consider the long-term economic benefits. Grants, international funding, and public-private partnerships
can alleviate the financial burden on the Government. Moreover, the reduced operational costs and potential revenue from a wellrun public transportation system can provide financial returns over time,” Edghill further added.
It was only recently that former President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Timothy Tucker, during an interview with this publication, stressed the need for a better, more comfortable public transportation system.
In that interview, Tucker had suggested that the use of big buses or even electric buses should be explored. In addition to bringing convenience and
ease of travel for locals as well as visitors, Tucker highlighted that a more efficient public transport system could significantly reduce the cost of living.
Tucker had pointed out that Guyana must recognise its growth as a country, and the importance of embracing modernity with a good, reliable public transportation system to ease traffic congestion. He had also suggested that the Government could partner with the private sector to overhaul the current transportation system in the country.
Perhaps the best-known example of a country geographically close to Guyana implementing electric buses is Barbados, whose
Transport Board operates a fleet of over 50 electric buses around the island.
Last year, the Barbados Transport Board had announced that it had procured 10 new electric buses under the Ministry of Energy and Business’ Sustainable Energy Investment Programme, which according to the board brought its fleet to 59 electric buses.
In nearby Trinidad and Tobago, the twin island republic’s Public Transport Service Corporation (PTSC) operates a fleet of big buses of its own which, while not electric in nature, are nevertheless widely used by citizens and visitors alike. (G3)
Examples of Government-owned electric buses in Barbados
A T&T big bus owned and operated by the Government
Labourer nabbed with 863g of ganja
An intelligence-led operation conducted by ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) police on Saturday afternoon led to the arrest of a 30-year-old man of 'BB' Eccles, East Bank Demerara (EBD).
Police said that the labourer was found in possession of 863 grams of marijuana.
Reports are that a team of officers went to the man’s two-storey concrete home in Eccles and conducted a search.
During the search, officers discovered a plastic bag containing leaves, seeds, and
stems suspected to be marijuana on a sofa in the living room. The findings were shown
to the man and he was arrested and escorted to the Farm/ Herstelling Police Station. There, the marijuana was
weighed in his presence and amounted to 863 grams. He remains in custody pending charges.
Driver arrested for breaking barrier on Farm Access Road
A48-year-old driv-
er has been arrested following an accident that occurred on Saturday, around 11:00h on Farm Access Road, East Bank Demerara (EBD). The collision involved motor lorry, GZZ 6049, driven by Orin Dowden, and a metal arch owned by the Housing Ministry.
Reports indicate that Dowden was traveling westbound on Farm New Road with an extended ladder and bucket attached to the lorry’s tray. As he approached the intersection of Farm Access Road, he made a left turn, during which the top of the bucket struck the metal arch. The impact caused the arch to break and fall to the ground.
In response to the incident, police issued a notice of intended prosecution to Dowden. The lorry was impounded at the Farm Police Station.
This incident is not the first of its kind. Similar damage was reported several times along the new Mocha-to-Diamond bypass
road on the EBD two years ago. Fixed steel barriers were established to prevent heavy-duty vehicles from using the road, but at least two barriers were destroyed, including the one at the Mocha Entranceway
December 2021, emphasising that individuals who damaged the barriers would face consequences.
“This road is designed for a specific category of vehicles…the big trucks, you will see barriers and if you
providing an essential alternative route for commuters and workers who previously spent hours in traffic.
Last year, the Government began charging and fining individuals responsible for the destruction of public property. The Attorney General’s (AG) Chambers had emphasised that statutory authorities are committed to recovering compensation for damages and have implemented various measures to address reckless behaviour and protect public infrastructure.
This was due to a separate incident, where the driver of a car involved in a collision that damaged the Eccles/Haags Bosch roundabout was ordered to pay
and another near the Farm Access Road. In both cases, noticeable damage was observed, with the barrier at the entranceway even leaning.
President Dr Irfaan Ali had issued a stern warning during the official commissioning of the road in
think it is your responsibility to take down the barriers because you want to break the law, there will be consequences and you will face the consequences,” President Ali stated.
The new bypass road has been crucial for easing congestion on the EBD cor-
the state €2.1 million for emergency repair costs.
The AG Chambers noted that billions of dollars are spent annually to repair public property damaged by irresponsible actions, highlighting the importance of stringent measures to deter such behaviour.
Another…
…one bites the dust
1980 was an eventful year. Burnham was rigging away elections here so democracy “bit the dust”; a new constitution was written to legalise his dictatorship – so rule of law bit the dust and assassinating his main opponent, Walter Rodney – who literally bit the dust. That year the Rock group “Queen” prophetically released a massive hit -- “Another one bites the dust”! And, since then Burnham also bit the dust – along with so many other dictators – like right in our hemisphere, Papa and Baby Doc, Trujillo; Pinochet, etc.
Well, we just learnt that another dictator – Assad of Syria – has been ousted and ? fled the jurisdiction. Queen’s (paraphrased) lyrics would’ve gone like this: “Abu al-Jolani (the rebel leader) walks warily down the street; With the Keffiyeh (head wear) pulled way down low; Ain't no sound but the sound of his feet (Assad never heard him coming); Machine guns ready to go; Are you ready? Hey…Are you ready for this? Are you hanging on the edge of your seat? Out of the doorway the bullets rip; To the sound of the beat, yeah; Another one bites the dust; Another one bites the dust; And another one gone, and another one gone; Another one bites the dust (yeah)!!”
So, what really went down in Syria? We know that between the present Assad and his Dad, they’d clocked in 53 years of ruling Syria with an iron fist. This means two generations never knew any other ruler than the Assads!! Bashar Assad had been an eye doctor in London when he was forced to return to Syria to succeed his father after his brother died in a car crash in 1994. He explained their draconian rule over their religiously fractured – all Arabs but Christians, Druzes, Alawites, Sunni and Shias – who all felt they should rule – thusly: folks were commenting on the blood on the hands of the surgeon – but not at the patient he’d saved!! The Assads, not so incidentally, were Alawites who were supported by Hezbollah and Iran –along with Russia.
So, that means that Abu al-Jolani, who’s an Islamist Sunni and a member of Al Qaida – but has since renounced those ties – is sure to set off another round of violent religious infighting as everyone jockeys for power!! As far as the Yanks are concerned, Trump might have his hands full with new kink as he threads lightly to avoid backing another group that may turn on the West!! Your Eyewitness believes that the said West gotta quit trying to impose their view of what is “modernity”.
If folks say they wanna have women in purdah and in the home, who’s to say that’s worse than working 9 to 5 for peanuts??
…foot to fall?
Your Eyewitness had been pretty chuffed when the Government introduced legislation – the Restorative Justice Bill – back in Nov 2022 for “repairing the harm caused by an offence”. Our justice system, of course, is guided “punitive justice” – derived from the old “eye for an eye” perspective: “if someone does the crime; he should do the time”. Now while punishing the perpetrator, the victim could possibly seek redress as a civil matter, but the state system didn’t bother with that angle.
Of recent, there’ve been calls for this to be rectified so that victims of crimes could be made whole as far as possible through actions of the state. So your Eyewitness was thrown for a loop when he realized that this Bill on “Restorative Justice” was designed to “restore the PERPETRATOR” to the status quo ante as far as possible!! How does this repair “the harm of the offence”? After two years, last month Magistrates were trained to implement this law.
Your Eyewitness is waiting to see where the victim fits in!!
…development bank
VP Jagdeo revealed that the Government is mulling opening a development bank…the first after Burnham’s GNCB was established back in 1970. Well, we have a litany of woes that we should avoid, don’t we??
ridor,
The drug that was found by Police in Eccles, EBD
The motor lorry that damaged the barrier
Linden Town Clerk blasts Mayor for poor financial management
The Town Clerk of the Linden Mayor and Town Council (LMTC), has recently criticised the Mayor of the town for his poor financial management and understanding of the council and it polices.
Linden Mayor, Sharma Solomon last week conducted a walk-through exercise at the town’s Wismar market. There the Mayor told stallholders and patrons about the plans his administration has in store for the facility. One of the issues the Mayor told stallholders the council is working to address is to repair the market’s roof, however he said these efforts have been futile due to a lack of cooperation from the Town Clerk.
In an invited comment Linden’s Town Clerk, Lennox Gasper told this publication that the Mayor had made a request for some $1 million to be withdrawn from the council’s market emergency fund to purchase Euroband to patch the market’s roof.
However, Gasper ex-
plained that the council’s market emergency funds is only to facilitate minor works. The Town Clerk added that with the current state of the market’s roof, emergency works must be done to reconstruct the entire structure.
Improvised weapons, ganja found during prison raid
Prison officials and ranks from the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) have successfully conducted a series of intensive searches at the Lusignan Prison, East Coast of Demerara (ECD) between November 23 and December 7. The operations aimed to enhance prison security and maintain order within the facility.
During the search, a range of unlawful items and instruments were discovered. While specific details on the quantity of these contraband items have not
items seized during the searches were, cell phones along with batteries and chargers, cigarettes and lighters, improvised weapons, scissors, and a small quantity of marijuana.
This recent search comes just months after a similar operation at the Mazaruni Prison, which yielded significant findings. In that case, a search conducted in a condemned section of the prison uncovered 12 improvised weapons along with other contraband items, including four cell phones, one charger, and 12 lighters.
Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot, had emphasised the importance of implementing stricter security measures across all prison locations. He had previously said that the GPS is planning to install signs outside the facilities, warning the public about the consequences of attempting to smuggle items into the pris-
been disclosed, the searches are part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal activities within the prison and prevent potential violence. Among the contraband
ons. Elliot had also point out that movement near the prisons would be restricted and that stop-and-search exercises would be carried out.
“These funds are for any emergency, any minor stuff that is needed at the Wismar market. They have a serious situation with the roof and the Mayor and councillors are telling me that I must spend a million dollars in Euroband. When we need, is a tender, a contract to have the entire roof of the market done over.”
The Town Clerk added, “I cannot bring council's resources to put Euroband. He claimed that that's a quick fix. No amount of Euroband would fix anything and this just showed the shallow minded thinking of these councillors. It's not an ordinary house, it's not domestic work. This is a market and this is bigger than the Mayor and myself. It will require the engineers to do an investigation or an assessment, then get back to you and say, look, this is the assessment.”
This publication was told that a total of $2 million is budgeted from the fund each year for the Wismar and Mckenzie markets. With both markets being allotted $ 1 million each.
Noting that the repairing of the market roof would cost more than $ 1 million, the Town Clerk revealed that it was suggested that the council should attempt to source financing for the project from the $18 million council subvention.
“Through the Ministry, they had suggested, because after the council kept submitting different programmes for the $18 million subvention, and the Ministry’s position is that we have a graveyard of vehicles that they've been purchasing, but not repairing. So by the time they go down, you left them, and so they sent us back. We had a discussion with the technical advisor to the Minister which suggested that maybe we could commit the $18 million to the market roof. It would really help the stallholders.”
However, the Town Clerk noted that this decision was quickly shut down by the council, particularly the Mayor who highlighted that a previous request from the clerk to central Government was turned down.
“But remember, we got to pass it by the councillors first. So we returned the programme to the council. The council and Mayor refused to agree to that position. and according to him (the Mayor), we have taken every advice of the clerk, because the clerk also suggested the use of a power generator and we agreed to it, and it was turned down. Now I can't tell the Ministry how to spend their money.”
On this point the Town Clerk blasted the Mayor for his poor financial manage-
ment and governance of the council.
“He ought to be reminded that he's just a paper boss, a ceremonial Mayor. His powers lie when the council convene and they don't even understand the simple interpretation. I tell them every day, this is not about Lennox Gasper or Sharma Solomon, the power is in the council. But when you have a party of people that don't even understand their role and purpose, the Mayor alone spoke for two, three hours at the last meeting.”
Moreover, despite the bitter history between the Town Clerk and the Mayor, Gasper told this publication that he hopes that himself and the Mayor would be able to find common ground soon, in an effort to better serve the people of linden.
“There should be a synergy between administration and council but the relation right now with the Mayor at the helm is not favourable and it is not making for a good workflow. It is running bitter on the very council and the administration in the mouth of people out there. It is hopeful that we will be able to get around that soon enough. I honestly do wish for it to happen in spite of all the disrespect. For the good of Linden, it is my desire that we are able to work together very soon.”
Linden Town Clerk Lennox Gasper
Linden Mayor Sharma Solomon
Some of the items found during the raid at the Lusignan Prison
“The motorbike smash up into pieces” –brother of teen killed in Berbice crash
Ateenager was hit off of the electric bike he was riding and died moments later along the Corentyne Highway on Saturday evening. He was at the time riding from one side of the road to the other.
Parmanand Mohan called "Raj", of Tain Village, Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) was pronounced dead at the Port Mourant Hospital.
Police said motorcar, PAH 6222 which hit the teen at about 21:00 was being driven by a 17-year-old also of Tain Village.
Reports are that the car was proceeding east along the southern drive lane of Tain Public Road at a fast rate of speed when it was alleged by the driver that he put on his right-side trafficator.
He was in the process of overtaking a motorcar that was proceeding ahead and while in the process, the e-cyclist, who was on the northern edge of the road, suddenly rode across onto the northern drive lane.
As a result, he applied brakes to avoid a collision
but despite his effort, the front portion of his motorcar collided with the e-cycle causing the painter to be flung off the cycle and onto the road surface where he received injuries to the head and other parts of his body.
CCTV footage seen by this publication shows that Mohan was riding across the road from the south to the north and PAH 6222 was almost on the northern parapet when the crash occurred.
Mohan had left his home and gone to a nearby shop to purchase a drink and was on his way back when he met his demise.
His brother, Rahul Mohan, 17, said he gave his older brother the money to make the purchase.
The teenager said he walked to the head of the street and watched his brother enter the shop and was there when he came out of the shop.
“He buy the thing fuh we drink and whilst he crossing the road coming over back; he done cross the road an deh on the parapet corner and a car just overtake and slam he in the corner and he pitch.”
Rahul said he immediately went to his brother’s aid.
“I see he on the ground already dead...The motorbike smash up into pieces –everything break into pieces,” he revealed.
Meanwhile, his 37-yearold mother Natasha Nunes, said Mohan was the eldest of
her six children.
“When I go to Port Mourant Hospital, I see my son lie down and my son died.”
“They come this morning and ask me if I want settlement and I tell them, ‘No’, I want back my son,” she said.
According to Nunes, she was offered $2M by persons allegedly close to the driver
of the car, who remain in police custody. Mohan was living in French Guiana with his father for the past six years and moved to Guyana a few months ago to live with his two younger brothers. Meanwhile, police say that the investigation into the crash continues. (G4)
Construction of GPF training academy at Dora on schedule
Construction work on the Guyana Police Force’s new state-ofthe-art training academy at Dora, Soesdyke/Linden Highway, are progressing and on schedule for the 2025 completion.
According to information from the Home Affairs Ministry, the construction of the facilities for the Police Academy begun a few months ago after three contracts were signed in August. The project, which is to the tune of $518.1 million dollars, includes a senior instructor's building, female barracks, lecture hall, kitchen and dining hall, and accessway.
Guyana Times understands that three of these structures are expected to be completed by end of January 2025 and two are slated for completion by the end of next year. As part of efforts to modernise the Police Force, the ministry in August inked contracts with the three contractors: D&S Construction, Orin’s Supreme, and Green Plains Enterprise for the works. The construction of the main accessway was awarded to D&S Construction to the tune of $102,688,320.
The car that was involved in the accident
Grieving mother Natasha Nunes
Dead: Parmanand Mohan. called "Raj"
File photo: Permanent Secretary at the Home Affairs Ministry Andre Ally and Acting Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken along with other GPF officials at the Dora Police Academy site back in August
2nd power ship to arrive this week – GPL CEO
…expected to be connected before Christmas
The second power ship which will provide electricity to the Demerara-BerbiceInterconnected System (DBIS) is expected to arrive at Port Georgetown this week. This is according to Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) GPL Kesh Nandlall.
Currently, 3.9 kilometres of transmission line are
being constructed by a private contractor and according to Nandlall, work is on schedule.
“We are expecting to connect the ship before Christmas. We do not anticipate any difficulties so far.”
Nandlall said that workers are engaged on a 24-hour basis on a shift system to realise the power ship providing electricity to the national grid before Christmas.
On Sunday consumers in sections of Greater Georgetown experienced an 8-hour interruption in electricity supply as GPL conducted preparatory works for the arrival of a second power ship.
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh on Saturday said that the demand for
61 Bartica small contractors ink contracts totalling over $100M
artica’s road network
Bis set for a major upgrade as 61 small contractors signed agreements totalling $122 million under the Ministry of Public Works’ Urban Road Rehabilitation Programme.
The initiative, described as historic, was launched on Friday by Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Edghill highlighted the significance of the project, noting it is the first of its kind for Bartica.
“For the first time in the history of Bartica, we are doing what we are doing now,” he is quoted in a DPI as saying.
The contracts, valued between $1.8 million and $2.5 million each, were specifically awarded to small contractors that reside in the region.
Edghill explained that the programme is designed to empower ordinary citizens by bypassing the traditional public bidding process, which often favours larger, well-equipped companies.
“If you go out to public bid, none of you would be in this room today. The men who got money, the men who got machines, the men who got everything would win the work. Then you would get called on to do day work and get a day’s pay. We have
been able to change that with clear policy direction to ensure that we empower ordinary people,” he said.
Moreover, contractors were urged to complete their projects before December 31.
Edghill pointed out that 50 per cent of the contract sum will be disbursed by next Wednesday.
“Depending on how you manage your money, everybody should be smiling for Christmas,” he added.
The 61 road projects were designed to allow simultaneous execution to ensure contractors meet the deadline.
The project is expected to provide employment opportunities to over 300 Barticians, significantly boosting the town’s economy.
It also forms part of the Government’s broader infrastructure development strategy to improve accessibility and enhance commuter safety nationwide.
Edghill reiterated the Government’s commitment to inclusivity under the ‘One Guyana’ initiative which ensures every Guyanese is a direct beneficiary of development initiatives.
“Your entitlement to the benefits that exist in Guyana must not be based on your politics. It must be based on the fact that you are Guyanese,” the Minister
affirmed.
The Mayor of Bartica, Anthony Murray, and the Regional Chairman, Kenneth Williams, have both commended the infrastructural project, describing it as a significant economic boost for the region.
electricity from GPL has moved from almost 100 megawatts (MW) to almost 200 MW currently.
“There are new housing areas with hundreds of houses that are being brought onto the grid; we have new industrial and commercial investments including things like hotels, factories, warehouses, processing plants, etc. all of whom are coming onto the grid and demanding electricity. This has resulted in the skyrocketing electricity demand,” he said.
The current peak demand is 187 MW, while the available capacity is 194 MW.
Last month, GPL signed a contract with the Joint Venture of Turkish-based Karpowership Global DMCC and Qatar-based UCC Energy International LLC JV, to charter a second power ship with a total installed capacity of 75 MW for two years. In the first
phase, the power ship will dispatch 60 MWs to the grid in approximately six weeks followed by an additional 15 MW, once works are completed on an additional transmission line.
The contract requires GPL to pay the Joint Venture 8.52 US cents per Kilowatt-hour (kWh) as a monthly charter fee for the new power ship and a monthly operation and maintenance fee of 0.98 US cents per kWh, based on electricity generated. Under the contract, GPL is also responsible for providing
Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) for the operation of the ship’s generators. This second power ship will add to the 36 MW of electricity already being produced by the first floating power plant that is in the Berbice River.
Nandlall had previously told this publication that two generators with an aggregate capacity of 13 MW that are unavailable due to major overall will be back online by December 10 and 21. This he said will boost the generation capacity in the DBIS to 207 MW. (G4)
CEO of GPL, Kesh Nandlall
A small contractor signing a contract on Friday (DPI photo)
Demand for in-country fabrication services at its highest yet – Routledge …says shore bases have helped fuel demand from oil & gas sector
With demand from the oil and gas industry at its peak for in-country fabrication services at its highest level yet, the recent move by ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL) to scout the local market for companies that can supply fabrication and other related services is a recognition of that demand.
During a recent interview on energy perspectives, EMGL’s President, Alistair Routledge explained that the company’s partnership with shore bases such as the Guyana Shore Base Incorporated (GYSBI) and now the Vreed-en-Hoop Shore Base Inc. (VEHSI) have played a large role in driving this demand.
“What we’re doing is we’ve made in the past, strategic investments and decisions with local suppliers, such as the Guyana Shore Base, Vreed-en-Hoop Shore Base. And those enabled more work to be done in country. So, the next phase we’re looking at, is to say ok, now that we’ve stimulated some of the fabrication activity on the Vreed-en-Hoop Shore Base
project.”
“As we look down the line at more mature assets, these multiple FPSOs (Floating Production Storage and Offloading) vessels that are being installed, we’ll anticipate that there’ll be repair activities, maintenance activities. And all of that generates additional work,” he explained. This additional work
vestors to pick up on cues to where the best areas for long term investments are. This would strengthen the local market and present more opportunities for local businesses. And Routledge made it clear that in-country fabrication is preferable to Exxon going overseas, making the demand for this service evident.
“At the same time, it
takes the form of fabrication and machining. According to Routledge, the intention is to send the right signals to the market, allowing in-
would support the (oil and gas) industry as it matures. Its more efficient than us having to go overseas for that support. So, what we
said is, the nature of that work is that it tends to be project based. So, one project will come out, maybe for 100 tonnes of steel, 300 tonnes of steel to use that benchmark. But any fabricator needs to know that in a year, they may have 1000 tonnes of steel to work on.”
“So, what we’re trying to do is say, what are the different types of machining, fabricating capabilities that are needed and we anticipate in the future. This won’t be a certain number, it will range. And what are the existing capacities and what are the types of capacity that investors are considering investing in. And we will try to give an aggregated picture from the companies working in the industry,” he further explained.
According to Routledge, his company is doing its part to help build the local market, while at the same time making the long-term demand for in-country fabrication services as clear as possible for investors. He noted the importance of investors feeling assured that if they invest in training, equipment and quality assurance, the opportunity will be there for them to make use of this investment.
In a notice last month, EMGL had revealed that it was seeking detailed, technical information from local companies via a market condition survey. The survey will be gauging the existing in-country capacity for fabrication, machining and repair works to support
oil and gas operations locally.
Some of the services covered in the market condition survey include tertiary steel fabrication such as handrail and structural steel, secondary steel fabrication such as pipe supports and control valve repairs and primary steel fabrication such as compressor refurbishment and carbon steel pipes.
According to Exxon, it will be using the responses to the survey, which are due by December 20, to prequalify bidders for upcoming projects. In addition to the usual high standards of work expected from bidders, Exxon noted that they will also be expected to include a preliminary local content
strategy. This means that those who are prequalified will be required to show how they will deliver local content expectations and may even be required to submit those plans to the Government, in which case copies will also be required to be submitted to the oil major. To date, 290 tonnes of green steel have been fabricated by local companies for two FPSO vessels- 50 tonnes for Prosperity FPSO and 240 tonnes for the ONE GUYANA FPSO. This number is expected to increase for Jaguar FPSO that will service the Whiptail development, which will see an additional 316 tonnes of steel being fabricated by the local companies. (G3)
EMGL President Alistair Routledge
ExxonMobil headquarters
Systems in place to prevent price gouging when cash grants distributed – Finance Minister
Finance Minister, Dr Ashni
Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh has assured Guyanese that systems are in place to prevent price gouging when cash grants are distributed.
He gave the assurance on Saturday while speaking with this publication of the distribution of the $100,000 cash grant.
In October, President Dr Irfaan Ali revealed that the Government will provide a one-off $100,000 cash grant to every citizen aged 18 and above. This would see an estimated $60 billion being distributed among Guyanese.
Asked about price gouging in Guyana and fears of this, Singh said the Government has put in place several mechanisms to control price increases but noted that the Government will not put control on prices but rather let the market forces take control.
“We are living in a competitive market and people will compete to get business and the competitive nature of the market works,” he explained.
Some of the measures implemented by the
Government to keep prices down are the removal of tax on fuel in an effort to make commuting cheaper and the distribution of fertiliser to farmers in another mechanism to reduce the price of locally grown food. Additionally, initiatives have been put in place to ensure consumers receive the best possible prices for agricultural produce.
“For example, we have implemented farmers markets in a number of areas so that farmers can be able to sell directly to citizens. So, it is a whole raft of measures that we have implemented to contain the impact of any risk of price escalation to citizens as a whole and we have been doing that throughout the year and we will continue to do that,” the Finance Minister said.
Meanwhile, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) was the first region in which the distribution of cheques started.
Singh noted that currently, the team is working with several regions and several groups. Registration is also taking place at other hinterland regions; Region
One (Barima-Waini) Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) and Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni).
Registration is also taking place on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD), East Bank Demerara (EBD) and Georgetown in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica).
“We are also doing it in the Government Ministries because we said public servants and Government pen-
sioners will also be a priority groups. We are also doing NIS pensioners at the various NIS offices. We are also doing old age pension recipients at the various points where the pension books are being distributed. The whole objective is to role this out as aggressively as possible and we are doing various groups in parallel at the same time to be able to accelerate the programme,” he said.
Asked about challenges facing the administration as it relates to the cash grant, Singh noted that a lot of planning was put into the activity.
He referred to it as a “mammoth task” noting that it encompasses the entire nation.
“So, we have developed a good quality app for collecting the data, it is working very well. We have a lot of
people working on the team. I think if you speak with the citizens they will tell you that the processing time is incredibly fast. The registration takes no more than three minutes. Everyone I spoke with has said that it has gone incredibly smoothly and they are impressed with the smoothness and efficiency in which the registration is happening,” the Minister said. (G4)
GTA inspires future generation of chefs through cooking showcase
In an exciting display of culinary talent, the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) hosted its annual Junior Cooking Showcase aimed at promoting self-development and culinary training among youth.
Three teams of secondary school students, from Regions Five, Six and Nine, gathered to compete in a riveting final showdown at the Sophia Exhibition Centre on Saturday.
According to a Department of Public Information (DPI) report, the students were cheered on by their teachers, parents, judges and distinguished guests like British High Commissioner to Guyana, Jane Miller and the owners of The Singing Chef tours Eon John and his wife.
The children were immersed in a learning experience as they were exposed to ingredients they’ve never worked with before.
As they prepared foreign ingredients like mussels, the students were able to garner hands-on experience in food preparation from Chef John.
Lead judge, Chef Kester Robinson explained that the use of foreign ingredients was a deliberate move to train the children on how to cater to various palettes and dietary needs.
“I designed this programme basically to highlight what we have in Guyana, but also to give the students the opportunity to create and also utilise what is there [internationally]… So, just basically, overall utilising what we have in Guyana, but elevating it so that it reaches that international standard” Chef Robinson is quoted in a DPI report as saying.
As Guyana’s tourism sector continued to flourish, the demand for trained chefs who can masterfully blend local and foreign flavours is growing.
As such, showcases like this emerge as valuable
learning experiences for the next generation of culinary professionals.
British High Commissioner Miller echoed this sentiment, saying, “Guyana is growing really fast and it’s really exciting. The new hotels opening up, new restaurants, new eco-lodges and what we need is some really good chefs.”
She also highlighted the initiative as an important step towards raising awareness on the value of developing culinary skills.
“I think cooking is a life skill for boys, girls and for everybody. Whether you’re cooking at home, whether you’re cooking for your family ,or whether it’s going to become your career,” she said.
Singh
Prison trade instructor training programme launched with CPCE
The Guyana Prison Service (GPS) has partnered with the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) to launch a groundbreaking Prison Trade Instructor Training programme, marking a significant milestone in correctional education.
The innovative initiative was officially unveiled on Thursday in the Conference Room of CPCE. The first cohort of the programme consists of 30 prison officers directly involved in training inmates. Director of CPCE, Dr Julie Jailall, expressed gratitude for the collaboration and highlighted the in-
stitution’s belief in education as a powerful tool for change.
“This programme reflects our commitment to advancing professional development and improving the capacity of Instructors to deliver technical and vocational education that not only meets accredited standards but also serves as a vehicle for the rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates,” Dr Jailall stated.
Industrial Technology Coordinator, Ryan Samaroo at CPCE, spoke about the transformative potential of the programme, emphasising its broader societal impact.
“This is not merely a
training initiative; it is an investment in the future of our society. The skills you will gain will not only uplift your professional practice but also contribute to the larger goal of transforming the lives of those under your instruction,” Samaroo said.
Meanwhile, acting Deputy Director of the GPS, Kevin Pilgrim, voiced his enthusiasm for the programme, underscoring the prison service's commitment to correctional reform. Pilgrim noted that the initiative would equip officers with essential tools for providing training within the prison system while facilitating their pro-
fessional growth.
“The programme will provide the participants with the tools necessary to offer training internally, and at the same time offer ranks an opportunity to be exposed to professional development in their respective fields,” Pilgrim stated. He further highlighted the importance of continuous training to meet the evolving needs of the prison system and bolster public confidence. Pilgrim explained that the GPS’s 2024 training module focuses on enhancing employees’ proficiency and skills in their roles. He added that the service, through
its training board, identified the need for targeted development to boost job performance and incorporate new, relevant concepts.
Also, Head of the Prison Service Training Board, Tracy Shamshudeen elaborated on the board's collaborative efforts with the Prison Directorate to encourage officers to take advantage of training opportunities available locally, regionally, and internationally.
These educational initiatives come shortly after the GPS’s broader strategic move earlier this year when acting Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot, announced plans to el-
evate entry requirements for recruits, emphasising the importance of secondary education as a prerequisite for joining the GPS.
The GPS, in collaboration with the Education Ministry had previously announced the introduction of a Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) programme at various prison locations across Guyana. This initiative aims to provide inmates and officers with access to five core subjects: Mathematics, English A, Social Studies, Human and Social Biology, and Electronic Document Preparation and Management (EDPM).
Scenes from the launch of the Prison Trade Instructor Training programme
Health Ministry to roll out Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) testing locally
…Ministry working to recruit technical personnel – Dr Anthony
The Health Ministry in an effort to widen its services to the Guyanese population, is currently in the process of establishing Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) testing locally.
HLA testing, also referred to as HLA typing or tissue typing, is a blood test used to identify HLA antigens present on the surface of cells and tissues. These antigens are proteins integral to the immune system, enabling the body to differentiate between its own cells and foreign ones.
241 traffic violation cases recorded on EBD
Arobust traffic enforcement opera-
tion on Friday led to a total of 241 cases being made against motorists along the East Bank Demerara (EBD) and West Coast Demerara (WCD).
The initiative, spearheaded by Superintendent Daniels and Deputy Superintendent Fredericks in collaboration with teams from Traffic Headquarters, aimed to
tackle a range of traffic violations.
The operation saw over 100 motor vehicles stopped, with numerous drivers facing charges for prohibited tinted glass, particularly on front windshields. More than 50 motorists were also charged for breaching conditions of prescribed fitness, including the use of unauthorised blue and other colored lights.
Other infractions included failure to wear seat belts, failure to wear safety helmets, carrying pillion riders without helmets, obscured or missing identification marks, and operating uncertified motor vehicles.
This crackdown comes just days after the Guyana Police Force (GPF) announced 4,276 traffic violations across all regional divisions in a single week.
Between November 24 and November 30, Traffic Chief
Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh led an intensified campaign targeting critical areas of non-compliance.
Speeding topped the list of infractions with 791 cases, while failure to wear
mitment to improving road safety through heightened enforcement measures.
President Dr Irfaan Ali recently voiced concerns about the growing indiscipline on Guyana's roadways, particularly among
seat belts accounted for 192 violations.
Improper loading practices by lorries and failure to wear safety helmets were also major concerns, with 76 and 297 citations respectively. On Friday, a separate traffic operation in Georgetown recorded 79 violations, further demonstrating the GPF’s com-
public transport drivers. He called for tougher penalties to address repeat offenders.
The Government has revised traffic laws to impose higher fines for serious violations like drunk driving and speeding. These legislative updates have strengthened the ability of law enforcement officials to enhance road safety.
This new medical service was highlighted by the Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony on Saturday during a Human Organ and Tissue Transplant Agency (HOATTA) inaugural stakeholders' meeting which was held at the Grand Coastal Hotel.
The high-level engagement brought together healthcare professionals, policymakers, and other key stakeholders to discuss strategies for enhancing the country’s transplant capabilities.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Anthony, underscored the life-saving potential of organ and tissue transplantation and its vital role in improving healthcare outcomes. He noted that as parts of efforts to enhance the organ transplant landscape in Guyana, the Ministry of Health is currently in the process of rolling out HLA testing in the country.
“We aim to establish
Human Leukocyte Antigen testing locally. The equipment has already been procured, and we are working on recruiting technical personnel. While this process will take time, our vision extends beyond Guyana, we aspire to become a centre of excellence for the Caribbean,” Dr Anthony stated.’
HLA are specialised proteins present on the surface of all cells in the body except red blood cells. The HLA genes that individuals inherit are responsible for the HLA antigens present on their cells. HLA testing identifies the major HLA antigens that are present on the surface of an individual’s cells and the antibodies to HLA antigens as well as the genes that are responsible for HLA antigens, primarily to match transplant donors and recipients.
Additionally, the Health Minster lauded HOATTA for its dedication to en-
suring safe, accessible, and high-quality transplant services in Guyana. Moreover, the Minister reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting HOATTA’s initiatives and called for collective efforts to build a robust national transplant programme adhering to the highest ethical and medical standards.
The meeting included a comprehensive review of the current state of organ donation and transplantation in Guyana. Discussions covered key areas such as legislation, donor recruitment, and raising public awareness.
Among the participants were Daniel Albrecht, Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO); Dr Shanti Singh-Anthony, Chair, HOATTA; Dr Sondia Gordon, CEO and Secretary, HOATTA; Members, Dr David Samaroo; Dr Pedro Lewis; Dr Kamela Bemaul-Sukhu and other stakeholders.
Construction of GPF training...
The construction of the lecture hall was awarded to Orin’s Supreme to the tune of $87,830,663 and included 4-6 smart classrooms with IT labs, providing advanced training environments for future law enforcement professionals.
The building of the barracks was awarded to Green Plains Enterprise to the tune of $84,973,455.
The construction of the new facilities is part of a larger initiative that is aimed at enhancing the overall effectiveness and efficiency of the GPF. This investment reflects the government’s recognition of the need for modern infrastructure to support law enforcement in addressing contemporary challenges, including
crime and public safety.
The Dora Training Facility will be a comprehensive, state-of-the-art Police Academy that spans 228.85 acres, meticulously designed to provide advanced training and administrative facilities, with the primary goal of developing a world-class police force equipped to meet the demands of modern law enforcement.
The first phase of development entails the construction of several other key facilities, including a Training Studio, Instructor’s Building, Kitchen and Dining Hall, and Water Well. Each component is carefully planned to contribute to the overall goal of creating a fully functional and advanced training academy for GPF.
The Dora Training Facility is set to revolutionise law enforcement training in Guyana, providing a cutting-edge environment that will shape the future of policing in the nation.
The Government of Guyana, alongside the Ministry of Home Affairs and the GPF, is committed to seeing this flagship project through to completion, ensuring that the GPF remains at the forefront of law enforcement excellence.
This modernisation effort is aligned with global best practices in law enforcement. It aims to ensure that the Guyana Police Force is equipped to meet the evolving demands of public safety and security in Guyana.
Vehicles that were stopped during the exercises
Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony
Healthcare professionals at The Human Organ and Tissue Transplant Agency (HOATTA) inaugural stakeholders' meeting
Caribbean Airlines brings Region closer with new service to Guadeloupe
Caribbean Airlines on Saturday announced the start of its new service to the French island of Guadeloupe, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s commitment to enhancing regional connectivity.
This new route, operating four times per week via St Lucia and Dominica, opens new opportunities for seamless travel and collaboration across the Caribbean.
In a release, the airlines said that the introduction of flights to Guadeloupe brings a fitting conclusion to an ambitious year of expansion for Caribbean Airlines.
In 2024, the airline’s network grew with the addition of Puerto Rico, Martinique and now Guadeloupe. These new destinations are complemented by key regional developments, includ-
ing flights between Ogle, Guyana, and Suriname, expanded regional and international schedules, and the upcoming relaunch of the Fort Lauderdale to Kingston route.
CEO of Caribbean Airlines, Garvin Medera, expressed his enthusiasm for the airline’s latest milestone, stating: “At Caribbean Airlines, our theme of ‘Welcome Home’ reflects our vision of uniting the Caribbean and beyond. This new service to Guadeloupe strengthens our commitment to building bridges across the region for the betterment of our people, culture, trade, and education. Whether you’re connecting for business, leisure, or to visit loved ones, our network is designed to make every journey as seamless and welcoming as possible.”
Medera added, “As we reflect on a year of dynamic growth, we are proud to be at the forefront of regional connectivity. The start of service to Guadeloupe is not just an expansion of our network; it’s a reaffirmation of our commitment to fostering unity, opportunity, and the vibrant exchange of Caribbean culture.”
Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Guadeloupe Maryse Condé Airport Alain BIÈVRE shared his appreciation stating: “Expanding our regional network is a priority for us, Caribbean Airlines opening up the southern islands to our butterfly archipelago is great news, we are looking forward to building a strong relationship with Caribbean Airlines and strengthening connections within the Caribbean.”
Dominican Republic seizes record 9.5 tonnes of cocaine in banana shipment
Authorities in the Dominican Republic say they have confiscated nearly 9.5 tonnes of cocaine found in a banana shipment.
It is the largest drug seizure in the country’s history.
The drugs, worth $250m (£196m), were found in a shipment that arrived at Caucedo, the country’s main seaport, in the capital of Santo Domingo.
The shipment had been sent from Guatemala and was destined for Belgium, according to Carlos Devers, a spokesperson for the Dominican Republic’s anti-drug agency.
Ten suspects had been detained, he told a press conference.
“Early investigations show that a container carrying bananas arrived from Guatemala,” he said. “Many unknown individuals tried to transfer the drugs to another container that would be shipped on a vessel to Belgium.” He said it was the country’s largest seizure, beating a 2.6-tonne seizure, also in Caudedo, in 2006.
Dominican Republic authorities have seized nearly 47 tonnes of drugs so far this year.
InSight Crime, a thinktank that analyses organ-
ised crime, has said the record-breaking seizures made this year suggest the Caribbean is resurfacing as a major trafficking route from Colombia to Europe, where consumption is estimated to have more than doubled between 2011 and last year.
“As demand grows, traffickers are ramping up efforts to meet it, turning to the Caribbean as an ideal conduit for smuggling cocaine to Europe,” InSight Crime said in an analysis in late November, noting that large Dominican transport hubs provided extensive opportunities for traffickers.
(The Guardian)
Bahamas rejects US request to accept deportees
The government has rejected a request from the Trump administration’s transition team for The Bahamas to accept migrants from other countries who are to be deported from the United States, the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) said yesterday.
During a press conference held after the statement was issued, OPM Director of Communications Latrae Rahming said The Bahamas’ position on migration has been consistent through multiple administrations and stressed that The Bahamas values the US as a partner.
He said the government looks forward to working with the incoming Trump administration.
OPM’s statement was issued after NBC News reported that The Bahamas was on a list being prepared by the transition team for US President-elect Donald Trump of countries where migrants who are not accepted by their home countries would be deported to.
NBC News said, according to its sources, The Bahamas was on the list along with the Turks and Caicos, Panama and Grenada.
OPM confirmed the proposal was put to the Davis administration.
“This matter was presented to the government of The Bahamas but was reviewed and firmly rejected by the prime minister,” OPM said.
“The Bahamas simply does not have the resources to accommodate such a request. The prime [minister’s] priorities remain focused on addressing the concerns of The Bahamian people.”
OPM said since Davis’ rejection of the proposal, there was no further engagement or discussions with the Trump transition team or any other entity regarding this matter.
Davis’ office added that the Bahamian government is committed to its position.
Rahming, who could not speak to the specifics of the proposal, said, “The
Bahamas’ position on migration has not changed.
“It has been the same from when Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham was prime minister during the challenges with Aristide in Haiti, the turmoil. The then-prime minister was approached by the US government on the same issue of migration.
“This is not a contentious issue between the government of The Bahamas and the Trump administration. This has been very consistent. We see the US as our partners. The government of The Bahamas looks forward to working along with the incoming Trump administration.
“These are regional security challenges but the position of The Bahamas has always been consistent regardless of the current administration in the United States.”
Trump, who won the US November election, has promised to carry out the “largest deportation” of migrants in American history. (The Nassau Guardian)
Caribbean Airlines’ official welcome to Guadeloupe by President of the Guadeloupe Tourism Board, Valerie Cesar Samuel; President of the Board of Directors/CEO of Guadeloupe Maryse Conde Airport, Alain Bievre; Managing Director of Tourism Board, Rodrigue Solitude and Tourism Director at Guadeloupe Regional Council, Agathe Vincenot
Agents stand guard over bags of the drugs seized at Caucedo port in Santa Domingo (Photograph: Orlando Barría/EPA)
By Dr Tariq Jagnarine Family meDicine, enDocrinology/DiaBeTes
Ahookah is a water pipe used to smoke tobacco. It’s also called a shisha (or sheesha), hubble-bubble, narghile, and goza. The word “hookah” refers to the pipe, not the contents of the pipe.
The hookah was invent-
on an empty stomach.
HEALTH TIPS
EFFECTS OF HOOKAH ON HEALTH
The coals used to light a hookah might make some people feel nauseous. Fumes from the coals can cause other side effects, including slight headache pain.
Hookah and addiction
Hookah tobacco is the same tobacco found in cigarettes. This means that when persons smoke a hookah, they are breathing in nicotine, tar, and heavy metals, including lead and arsenic.
Smoking one hookah for 45 to 60 minutes is about the same as smoking a pack of cigarettes.
Nicotine is the chemical that causes addiction when you smoke or chew tobacco.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), nicotine is as addictive as heroin and cocaine.
ed hundreds of years ago in the Middle East. Today, hookah smoking is also popular around the world.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), up to 17 per cent of high school senior boys and 15 per cent of high school senior girls in the United States have used a hookah.
The CDC notes that hookah smoking is slightly higher among college students, with about 22 per cent to 40 per cent having tried it. This might be because it’s typically a group event in special cafes, tea houses, or lounges.
A hookah comprises a rubber hose, pipe, bowl, and smoke chamber. Tobacco is heated on coals or charcoal, and it may have flavours added to it, like apple, mint, licorice, or chocolate.
A common myth is that hookah smoking is safer than cigarette smoking. This isn’t true. Hookah smoking won’t get people high, but it does have other health risks and can be addictive.
A hookah isn’t designed for marijuana or other types of drugs. Hookah smoking won’t get you high. However, the tobacco in it can give a buzz. Persons may feel lightheaded, relaxed, dizzy, or wobbly.
Hookah smoking can also make people feel sick to their stomach. This is more common if users smoke too much or smoke
When hookah is smoking, the body absorbs nicotine. It reaches one’s brain in about eight seconds. The blood carries nicotine to the adrenal glands, where it triggers the production of adrenaline, the “fight-orflight hormone.”
Adrenaline raises the heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing rate. It also makes people feel more awake and less hungry. This is why nicotine makes smokers feel good for a little while.
Over time, nicotine can confuse the brain, causing people to feel sick and anxious if missed. As a result, smoking cigarettes or other tobacco products with nicotine may make people feel better. This is known as nicotine addiction.
Hookah smoking is often done in social situations. A 2013 survey of 32 people who smoke hookah found that they believed they had a “social addiction” to it. They didn’t believe they were addicted to nicotine.
Health risks of hookah smoking
With hookah smoking, people inhale nicotine and other chemicals from tobacco, as well as chemicals from fruit flavourings. Tobacco use is linked to almost five million deaths around the world every year.
Hookah smoking also burns coal. This gives off other fumes and chemicals.
An “herbal” hookah
may still contain tobacco. It’s important to know that even if people are not smoking tobacco, they are still inhaling chemicals from coal and other substances.
In a hookah, the smoke passes through water before it reaches the hose and mouthpiece. A common myth is that the water filters out harmful substances. This isn’t true.
• Lung effects
Researchers in New York City compared respiratory (breathing) health in hookah smokers compared to non-smokers.
They found that young people who smoked from a hookah only sometimes had several lung changes, including more coughing and sputum, and signs of inflammation and fluid buildup in the lungs. In other words, even occasional hookah smoking can cause health effects. Like cigarettes, hookahs also give off harmful second-hand smoke.
Heart risks
The same study mentioned above tested the urine of hookah smokers and found that they had some of the same chemicals as cigarette smokers. Researchers also found other harmful chemicals, like carbon monoxide. These chemicals likely come from the coal that’s used to burn the tobacco.
A 2014 study tested 61 people – 49 men and 12 women, immediately after hookah smoking in London cafes. Researchers found that hookah smokers had levels of carbon monoxide that were about three times higher than those of cigarette smokers.
Carbon monoxide can lower how much oxygen the body absorbs. This is because it can bond to red blood cells 230 times stronger than oxygen. Breathing in too much carbon monoxide is harmful, and it might raise your risk of heart disease and other illnesses. The researchers also found that study participants had higher blood pressure after hookah smoking. The average blood pressure rose from 129/81 mmHg to 144/90 mmHg.
Over time, hookah smoking may cause chronic high blood pressure, which can also increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Infection risk Hookah smokers typically share one hookah in a group. Smoking from the same mouthpiece can
Infections that can spread from sharing a hookah include:
Cold and flu
• Cold sores (HSV)
Cytomegalovirus
• Syphilis
Hepatitis A Tuberculosis
• Cancer risk
cause infections to spread from person to person. Additionally, some bacteria or viruses may stay in a hookah if it isn’t cleaned properly.
A 2013 review notes that hookah smoking may also be linked to some cancers. Tobacco smoke has more than 4800 different chemicals, and more than
69 of these are known to be cancer-causing chemicals. Additionally, hookah smoking may lower the body’s ability to fight some cancers. That 2013 review also highlights research in Saudi Arabia that found that hookah smokers had lower levels of antioxidants and vitamin C than non-smokers. These healthy nutrients may help prevent cancer.
Several other studies mentioned in the review link tobacco use to mouth, throat, pancreas, bladder, and prostate cancers.
• Other risks
Hookah smoking causes other health effects, including: low birth weight of babies whose mothers smoked during pregnancy
Higher blood sugar levels, which can increase one’s diabetes risk
• Larynx (voice box) swelling or damage
• Changes in blood clotting
Stained teeth
• Gum disease
Loss of taste and smell
Hookah smoking doesn’t make people high. However, it does have many serious risks and is addictive, much like cigarette smoking. Hookah smoking isn’t safer than cigarette smoking. If persons are considering hookah smoking socially, don’t share mouthpieces. Ask for a separate mouthpiece for each person. This may help prevent the spread of infection.
Regional
T&T unions rally Griffith: Protest about years of frustration, not just salary increases
National Transformation Alliance (NTA) political leader and former police commissioner Gary Griffith said December 7’s protests were not just about the Salaries Review Commission (SRC) report and increases for top public officials, but rather, years of frustration.
The Joint Trade Union Movement (JTUM) and other unions held a rally at the Queen’s Park Savannah on December 7 and also marched to the Prime Minister’s official residence to deliver a letter of demands.
The unions asked Cabinet to reverse its decision to accept the SRC report, settle outstanding negotiations, meet with recognised, majority unions, offer wage increases comparable to those in the report, withdraw the offers of four per cent over six years with Cola (cost of living allowance) consolidation, reopen all negotiations in which unions accepted the four per cent over six years without the Cola consolidation and ensure Cola was maintained for all workers, a media report said on December 8.
In a Facebook post on December 8, Griffith said the political party stood in unwavering solidarity with the many people represented by the trade unions.
“This protest was not just about the unacceptable SRC report or the insulting four per cent wage increase offered to public servants, which was made even worse by the fact that the Government has effectively
given themselves a close to 50 per cent increase in salaries.
“It was a culmination of years of frustration, born out of mismanagement, poor governance, lack of leadership, biased decision-making, and the persistent disrespect shown to trade unions and the people they represent,” the release said.
He also said trade unions should not be treated as a token or cosmetic feature to lure voters and added that they should have a substantial and permanent role in Trinidad and Tobago’s governance. This structural change was necessary to prevent the exploitation of unions and ensure the people they represented were always heard and respected.
Griffith said while the party stood side by side with the union and shared the same mission to represent and advocate for those in need of a voice, the fear that gripped so many in the pub-
lic and private sectors had to be acknowledged.
“The fear of victimisation, fear of losing their jobs or contracts, fear of speaking out in a so-called democracy. When citizens are too afraid to voice their concerns, we are no longer a democracy; we are living under a dictatorship,” Griffith said.
The only way to confront the “entrenched system of inequity” was through unity among political parties, trade unions and NGOs.
Griffith said the most important lesson from December 7’s rally was that the country could not unite while political parties remained divided. The maturity to collaborate across lines was essential, he said.
Griffith was the Minister of National Security in the Kamla Persad-Bissessarled People’s Partnership Government. He was removed from that position in 2015. (Excerpt from Trinidad Newsday)
People living with HIV still being denied jobs, housing in Jamaica, says JASL
Despite the work done to reduce HIV stigma, policy and advocacy officer at Jamaica AIDS Support for Life (JASL) Patrick Lalor says discrimination against people living with the virus is still a real problem, with individuals being denied housing, employment, and access to certain spaces because of their status.
“The reality is there are numerous cases in which people living with HIV engage educational institutions, workplaces, communities, even families, and there is still a high level of stigma toward them. I’m not talking about people who pretend to be okay with people living with HIV, but under the cover, they are actually really discriminatory. There are people who will say one thing, but in terms of their operations in certain workplaces, in terms of their policies and the accommodation, they make you realise that they are not really as non-discriminatory as they purport,“ he said.
We still see numerous cases in different circles where people living with HIV still experience high lev-
els of discrimination. We are by no means saying the situation has in no way improved from where it was a decade ago, but I am saying where a lot of people purport that we are or think that we are in terms of how things have improved — we are far from it,” Lalor told the Jamaica Observer.
According to the policy and advocacy officer, JASL has received 42 reports of discriminatory actions against people living with HIV since the start of the year, with people living with the virus stating that they were either ostracised from a community, their place of residence or employment, as well as public places because of their status.
“We had a case from our western office where a tenant had someone who came to the residence who knew them and knew of their HIV status and it came out to the landlord that the person was HIV-positive, and they [the landlord] asked them [the tenant] to leave. In this particular case, there was no subtlety to it, they just said, ‘I don’t want anybody with HIV living in my place’,” he shared.
(Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)
Hit by blackouts, Cuba’s tourism industry now braces for Trump
With winter nights drawing in across North America, Canadian “snowbirds” – citizens who flee their freezing temperatures for sunnier climes every year – are planning their annual trips to Florida or the Caribbean.
Traditionally, Cuba has been hugely popular among Canadians, drawn to the pristine white sands of beach resorts like Varadero.
They fill the void left by Americans wary of the travel restrictions imposed on them under the continuing US economic embargo of the largest island in the Caribbean.
Figures show that almost one million Canadian tourists visited Cuba last year, the top country of origin for visitors by some margin.
As such, a recent decision by the Canadian tour operator, Sunwings Vacations Group – one of Cuba’s leading travel partners – to remove 26 hotels from its Cuba portfolio is a blow to the island’s struggling tourism industry.
Sunwings took the decision after Cuba endured a four-day nationwide blackout at the end of October, caused by failures with the country's aging energy infrastructure.
This was followed by another national power cut last month, when Hurricane Rafael barrelled its way across the island, worsening an already-acute electricity crisis.
A third countrywide blackout then happened on Wednesday, December 4, after Cuba's largest power plant broke down.
“Cuba has had some volatility in the last few weeks and that may shake consumer confidence,” Sunwings’ chief marketing officer, Samantha Taylor told the Pax News travel website last month.
“There are incredible places to go in Cuba,” she stressed, keen to emphasise that the company isn’t pulling out of Cuba altogether.
“But we also recognise that if clients are a little uncomfortable, we need to give them options.”
Specifically, that involved drawing up a list of what they called “hidden gems” – alternative holiday destinations in the Dominican Republic, the Bahamas, and Colombia.
The implications for Cuba are clear.
With tourism now the island’s principal economic motor, and the main source of foreign currency earnings after remittances, that an important tour operator is pointing its customers towards other countries’ beaches over crumbling energy infrastructure is a real concern.
“Our message to Canadians is that tour-
ism is one of the economy’s priorities,” said Lessner Gómez, director of the Cuban Tourism Board in Toronto in a statement.
“The Ministry of Tourism has been preparing for the winter season to deliver better services, uninterrupted supplies, a better airport experience, and more and new car rentals.”
While Cuba’s tourism agency tries to ease fears about the extent of the electricity blackouts, few can deny that these have been extremely difficult months on the island. Hurricane Rafael was only the latest storm to hit Cuba in a frenetic Atlantic hurricane season in which more powerful and more frequent storms are the new normal. Of course, severe weather is a problem across the Caribbean. But for Cuba, there are other complications in play.
Donald Trump’s re-election to the White House and his choice for Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, stand to make life even more complicated for Cubans than it already is. (Excerpt from BBC News)
Activists against violence reaching out
Too many people are unaware of the various types of violence and the ways abuse victims can seek help and that is why the National Organisation of Women (NOW) and other non-governmental organisations are attempting to do more community engagement.
President of NOW, Melissa Savoury-Gittens, made that point on Saturday at The Walk, St Thomas, Barbados, during the NOW on the MOVE motorcade.
“Sometimes people don’t realise that there is more than one type of violence. People just think of physical or domestic violence, but there are other types and mental abuse.
“And too many times we sit back and we ask people to come to us to get help, but today we are in the community meeting people where they’re at to try to give them the help that they need,” SavouryGittens said.
The motorcade was held under the theme Movement Opposing Violent Endings
(MOVE), as one of NOW’s 16 Days of Activism events.
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is a global campaign led annually by UN Women, beginning on November 25.
Members of the National Council on Substance Abuse, Barbados Family Planning, Barbados Business and Professional Women’s Club, Women of Purpose and Men Empowerment Network Support (MENS) also participated in the motorcade, providing information about the housing, counselling and other services they offer.
Founder and president of MENS, Fabian Sargeant, who participated in the motorcade, said the involvement of men was critical to reducing gender-based violence.
“Traditionally, we don’t see a lot of men rallying behind this cause and we want to increase that. We want men to understand that we have a role within society and our families.
“We must support this
cause because research shows that men are the main perpetrators of especially physical violence. And if we are supposed to wrestle this to the ground and eliminate these challenges within our social environment, we men need to step up to the plate and be a part of it,” Sargeant said.
He pointed out that men were also victims of abuse.
“Men are also victims of violence as well, so we are also here to build advocacy and get people to understand that this is a human issue and not necessarily a woman’s or men’s issue. We need to work together.
“If we are going to be empowered, we as women and men, we have to work together. We all want the same thing. We want happy families. We want happy relationships. We want to be able to exist in a peaceful environment and the only way to do that is if we learn how to coexist together in a wholesome, healthy way without any form of violence,” he added. (Excerpt from Nation News)
Oilfields Workers Trade Union President General Ancel Roget speaks to supporters, members of several other trade unions, political parties and social activists, after delivering a letter at the Prime Minister's St Ann's residence on December 7 (Angelo Marcelle photo)
Cuba has been hit hard by storms and rain during this year's hurricane season [Getty Images]
Around the World
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Saudi Arabia cuts oil prices after OPEC+ delays, reviving output
Syrian rebels topple Assad who flees to Russia in Middle East shake-up
Syrian rebels seized the capital Damascus unopposed on Sunday after a lightning advance that sent President Bashar al-Assad fleeing to Russia after a 13-year civil war and six decades of his family's autocratic rule.
Saudi Arabia is cutting oil prices for buyers in Asia by more than expected after the Organisation of Petroleum
Exporting Countries and allies (OPEC+) further delayed an output revival, underscoring how the outlook for the market remains weak.
State oil producer Saudi Aramco will sell its main Arab Light crude grade at a premium of 90 cents a barrel to the regional benchmark in January, according to a price list seen by Bloomberg. That compares with US$1.70 for this month. The company was expected to lower the premium by slightly less, to US$1, according to a survey of traders and refiners.
Aramco also cut prices for north-west Europe and the Mediterranean. It made no change for North America.
Benchmark oil prices in London are lower down this year on concerns about sluggish demand growth, especially in China, leaving the global market in a surplus next year. Brent crude is now just over US$71 a barrel and trading in a tight range as a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon has so far held, largely eroding a risk premium that traders had priced into the market.
Earlier, OPEC+ -- led by Saudi Arabia and Russia – agreed to push back production increases planned for the start of January by another three months, following two previous delays. The prospect of an impending oversupply leaves the group with the uncomfortable dilemma of whether to prolong production curbs well into 2025 or risk a price slump.(Bloomberg)
Trump aims to deport all illegal immigrants in the US
S President-elect
UDonald Trump aims to deport all immigrants in the US illegally over his four-year term, but wants a deal to protect so-called "Dreamer" immigrants, he said in an interview that aired on Sunday on NBC News' “Meet the Press with Kristen Welker”.
Trump also said he plans to take executive action on his first day in office to try to end birthright citizenship, which confers citizenship on anyone born in the US regardless of their parents' immigration status.
Trump, a Republican who won a second term in the White House promising mass deportations, is expected to declare illegal immigration a national emer-
gency when he takes office on January 20 and draw on resources from across the federal government to support a wide-ranging crackdown.
"We'll maybe have to go back to the people," he said.
Trump's incoming border czar Tom Homan and deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller both told Fox News' "Sunday Morning Futures" that Congress should provide a major funding increase for immigration enforcement.
Meanwhile, the President-elect said he would act on his first day in office to pardon rioters involved in the January 6, 2021 Capitol attack, further building expectations for a broad granting of clemency.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
In one of the biggest turning points for the Middle East in generations, the fall of Assad's Government wiped out a bastion from which Iran and Russia exercised influence across the Arab world. Moscow gave asylum to Assad and his family, Mikhail Ulyanov, Russia's ambassador to international organisations in Vienna, said on his Telegram channel.
His sudden overthrow, at the hands of a revolt partly backed by Turkey and with roots in jihadist Sunni Islam, limits Iran's ability to spread weapons to its allies and could cost Russia its Mediterranean naval base. It could allow millions of refugees scattered for more than a decade in camps across Turkey, Lebanon and Jordan to finally return home.
For Syrians, it brought a
sudden unexpected end to a war in deep freeze for years, with hundreds of thousands dead, cities pounded to dust and an economy hollowed by global sanctions.
"How many people were displaced across the world? How many people lived in tents? How many drowned in the seas?" the top rebel commander, Abu Mohammed al-Golani, told a huge crowd at the medieval Umayyad Mosque in cen-
tral Damascus, referring to refugees who died trying to reach Europe.
"A new history, my brothers, is being written in the entire region after this great victory," he said, adding that with hard work Syria would be "a beacon for the Islamic nation".
The Assad Police State – known since his father seized power in the 1960s as one of the harshest in the Middle East with hun-
dreds of thousands of political prisoners – melted away overnight.
Bewildered and elated inmates poured out of jails after rebels blasted open their cells. Reunited families wept in joy. Newly freed prisoners were filmed at dawn running through the Damascus streets holding up the fingers of both hands to show how many years they had been in prison.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
Ghana's former President wins election
Ghana's former President John Dramani Mahama has staged a political comeback by winning the West African nation's presidential election after his rival Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia conceded defeat on Sunday.
The result of Ghana's general election is another blow to a ruling party in a region where voters, hit by economic hardship, high inflation and local currency depreciation, have caused upsets as they seek changes in leadership.
Mahama, 66, who served as Ghana's President from 2012 to 2016, framed Bawumia as representing a
continuation of the policies that led to Ghana's worst
economic crisis in a generation.
Doctors say Israeli shells hit Gaza hospital, Israel denies strike
Israeli shelling hit a hospital in northern Gaza, wounding several people, damaging equipment and disrupting surgeries, Palestinian health officials said on Sunday, but Israel's military denied carrying out strikes in the area.
Hussam Abu Safiya, director of the Kamal Adwan Hospital in the town of Beit Lahiya – one of only three barely operational on the northern edge of the enclave – said the facility was
struck by about 100 tank shells and bombs late on Saturday.
"The situation is extremely dangerous. We have patients in the intensive care unit and others awaiting surgeries. Access to the operating rooms is only possible after restoring electricity and oxygen supply," Abu Safiya said in a statement.
The hospital is currently treating 112 wounded persons, including six in the intensive care unit, he
said.
Israel's military said it had conducted a review and found that its forces had not struck in the vicinity of the hospital or damaged any of its essential equipment.
"The IDF (Israel Defence Forces) is in continuous coordination with hospital officials to provide humanitarian assistance to the hospital and maintain a consistent liaison," the military said. (Excerpt from Reuters)
The world's second biggest cocoa grower, and major gold-producing nation, reached a deal with the International Monetary Fund last year for a US$3 billion bailout after it defaulted on most of its international debt.
"I have, this morning, received a congratulatory call from my brother Dr Bawumia, following my emphatic victory in Saturday’s election. Thank you, Ghana," Mahama said in a post on X social media.
Addressing a press conference from his residence, Bawumia said he called Mahama to congratulate him, adding that Mahama's National Democratic Congress (NDC) also won the parliamentary election.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
Abu Mohammed al-Golani, Damascus, December 8, 2024 (Reuters/Mahmoud Hassano photo)
Hundreds of supporters of Ghana's main Opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) party candidate and former President, John Dramani Mahama took to the streets to celebrate after his rival, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia conceded defeat after the presidential and parliamentary elections in Ghana, December 8, 2024 (Reuters/Zohra Bensemra photo)
Use your imagination. Pace yourself and budget wisely to ensure you get the highest return. Focus on self-improvement instead of trying to change others.
Your actions will be scrutinized by onlookers and those trying to outmaneuver you. Reach out to someone you trust to offer expert advice. Leave nothing to chance or in someone else’s hands.
Stick to the facts; sugarcoating something will only make you look bad. Positive actions will make an impression on people who can make your life easier and your dreams come true.
Use your imagination, and you’ll find new outlets for your skills. Don’t sell yourself short when you have plenty to offer. A joint venture looks promising if you put in the time and effort.
Engage in conversations that help you get to know your associates. Approach an expert who can offer insight that enables you to advance or use your attributes more effectively.
A reserved attitude will serve you well. Be a good listener. Take a pass if uncertainty prevails. Discipline coupled with working alone will pay off. Focus and keep moving.
You’ll achieve the most if you are confident, direct and persistent. Invest in your surroundings and make your space efficient and comfortable, and it will ensure that you do get things done.
Refuse to let people’s demands stop you from following your heart, imagination and creative drive. Surround yourself people and things that inspire you. Don’t slow down if you’re on a roll.
Put your time and energy into financial stabilization and physical fitness. Protect your money, reputation and position. Focus on looking and feeling your best.
Establish how you want to move forward and how much it will cost. A change to your routine or schedule will offer beneficial results. Establish ground rules and forge a plan.
Envision what you want and build it from scratch. It’s up to you to make your dreams come true. High energy and an astute mind will propel you, making it possible to achieve your goal.
Confusion will plague you if you believe everything you hear. Someone will take advantage of you if you let them. Change begins with you; be the one to lead the way.
ARCHIE
Bethell has proved doubters wrong, claims Stokes
Jacob Bethell has proved his critics wrong with his superb performances with the bat against New Zealand, so says Ben Stokes.
After hitting the winning runs in the first Test, new boy Bethell plundered 96 in the second innings of the second match.
The 21-year-old, who came into the team after Jordan Cox suffered a thumb injury, fell just short of what would have been his first professional century in what is only his 22nd First-Class appearance.
And with the decision to place Bethell at three having come under scrutiny before the series started, Stokes feels the youngster has swiftly set about showing just what an exceptional talent he is.
"I'm pretty sure there were a lot of doubters about the role we brought him into for that first Test match," Stokes told BBC Sport.
"You've got a young lad with so much potential and so much talent, why not let
him go out there and expose himself to Test cricket at its toughest?
"I was devastated for him to not get that three figures. I said to him: 'It's only four runs, isn't it?'
"His response was: 'Yeah, but it would have been flair if I smacked that through the covers to bring it up.'
"I think he's proved a lot and proved why we rate
him so highly."
Stokes does not feel Bethell's performances have provided him with a headache when it comes to selection, though.
"No, I don't see it like that," he said.
"If it hadn't gone well for him in those first two Test matches, that wouldn't have changed anyone's mind in our dressing room of him as a player."
Ancelotti confident Real Madrid are nearing their best
Carlo Ancelotti is confident Real Madrid are making their way back to their best after their 3-0 victory over Girona.
Jude Bellingham, Arda Guler, and Kylian Mbappé were on target on Saturday, moving to within two points of La Liga leaders Barcelona.
Since losing 4-0 to Barca at the end of October, Madrid have won four of their last five LaLiga matches, with their sole defeat coming against Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday.
But Ancelotti feels his team are rediscovering their best form.
"Bellingham has scored his fifth goal in a row. He's back and in good form.
Mbappé scored too," he said.
"We have to hang in there, little by little we're coming back.
"We had to hold on at the beginning, because Girona pushed hard. We did a good job collectively, and then we handled the advantage well. The team had more clarity and more ideas. I think the second half went very well."
The Italian also praised Guler's performance after the Turkish youngster scored Madrid's second goal.
"He wasn't good in the first half, but in the second half he scored a fantastic goal," Ancelotti said.
"What I want to highlight is his work. He runs a lot and helps the team. His
goal takes a bit of pressure off him.
"He's a young player with a lot of pressure around him and it's good for him to take a bit of pressure off."
An injury to Bellingham was a cause for concern for Madrid, but Ancelotti allayed any major fears.
"[Bellingham] is fine, he is available," said the Italian. "We've had the muscle injury to [Benjamin] Mendy but the rest of it is just knocks, nothing more,"
Mbappé's goal brought up his 200th in the top five leagues, while Bellingham has scored in five consecutive league games in a single season for the first time.
(Sportsmax)
Joe Root plundered his sixth Test century of 2024 in England's second innings, matching the joint-highest total of tons in a calendar year by an England player.
Stokes then took 3-5 with the ball to skittle through New Zealand's tail,
after Tom Blundell had offered some resistance for the hosts on Sunday with a brilliant 115.
"In this Test in particular, on day one we were 43 for 4, to be here on the winning side on day three is quite phenomenal," said Stokes.
"We got bowled out in 50 overs (54.5), but we had 270 runs on the board which was a good score on that day one-wicket, and then we obviously had time left with the ball to be able to make some inroads.
"To score 270 and take five wickets at the end of day one really set this game up.
"We back ourselves to be able to go out there and change games, and we feel that there needs to be a bit of impetus put into the game, particularly with the bat.
"As a bowler you want to be able to plonk it on a length and plonk it onto the
top of off stump over and over again. But sometimes when a batter is brave enough to take you on and knock you off your length, it's very hard to commit to still doing that."
New Zealand Captain Tom Latham, meanwhile, credited England's dominant display, and handed particular praise to Harry Brook, who scored 123 in the first innings and 55 in the second.
"It's the pressure they are able to put you under, especially with the bat," said Latham.
"I think on day one it was offering enough for our bowlers and the way Harry played in that innings was outstanding.
"Credit where it's due. The way he played puts you under pressure from ball one. He played some incredible shots that you don't necessarily see from other teams around the world." (Sportsmax)
Hamilton delighted to finish on “high” with Mercedes farewell in Abu Dhabi
Lewis Hamilton revelled in finishing "on a high" with Mercedes as the seven-time world champion bid an emotional farewell to his Formula One team.
Hamilton brought an end to his 12-year spell with Mercedes after a fourth-placed finish at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Sunday.
The 39-year-old, in his final race before joining Ferrari next year, started 16th on the grid, but produced an impressive performance to end what had been a challenging season.
"It has been probably the longest year of my life, knowing from the beginning I was leaving," Hamilton said.
"It's like a relationship that you've told whoever the counterpart is you're leaving, but you're living together for a year. Lots of ups and downs, but we finished on a high.
"We've definitely had ups and downs, but what's come through is there has been real love."
Hamilton, who finished seventh in the drivers' championship, passed Mercedes team-mate George Russell before climbing out of his car to savour an emotional outing.
"Each moment I have known it was one of the last and it has been really clear and really hard to let go," Hamilton said.
"When I stopped the car. I wanted to embrace the moment. Representing Mercedes has been the greatest moment of my life.
"Just giving thanks, my own spirit for not giving up, everyone the power to have built that car. I am proud of everyone."
Hamilton triumphed in two races this year, his first wins since 2021, when he lost out on the world title in controversial circumstances to Red Bull's Max Verstappen.
Ferrari awaits the F1 great, and soon-to-be col-
league Charles Leclerc cannot wait to work with Hamilton, though he is sad to lose team-mate Carlos Sainz.
"Lewis has achieved so much in the sport and it will be a big motivation," Leclerc said. "For now though, I'm thinking about the past year and the past years I've done with Carlos.
"We have had an amazing relationship. We have pushed each other. I really hoped we could finish these four years with the Constructors' Championship.
"Obviously now the disappointment is here and I will have four or five days to reset, then think about next year." (Sportsmax)
Ben Stokes and new England talent Jacob Bethell
Real Madrid has had a rocky start to the 2024-2025 season
Lewis Hamilton
WI go 1-0 up as Hope and Rutherford boss 295 chase
tre-per-hour delivery in the next over. It was then up to Hope and Keacy Carty to consolidate.
Sherfane Rutherford's maiden One-Day International (ODI) century helped West Indies break their 11-match losing streak against Bangladesh with a five-wicket win in St Kitts. The home side hunted down a target of 295 to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, with Rutherford's 80ball 113 comprehensively overturning a slow start to the chase. West Indies, who had at one point needed 161 off 114 balls, reached their target with 14 balls remaining.
Rutherford, who was struck twice on his helmet during his innings, reached his century when Bangladesh conceded six runs via overthrows in the 47th over. He celebrated the milestone with consecutive sixes off Soumya Sarkar, over longoff and midwicket. Then he squeezed one to short third man where Nahid Rana completed a catch, but by then West Indies only needed seven more.
Rutherford struck seven fours and eight sixes as he went from 19 off 29 balls in the 32nd over to score a further 94 runs in 51 balls. He
now has five consecutive 50plus scores in ODIs, becoming the fourth West Indian after Gordon Greenidge, Chris Gayle, and Shai Hope, who have six in a row each, to achieve this feat.
Rutherford added 99
They added 67 runs in the following 13.3 overs for the third wicket, with Carty scoring a cautious 21 off 37 balls. Rishad Hossain's short ball had him caught at short midwicket in a disappointing dismissal for the in-form West Indies batter.
The home side slowed down significantly during
runs for the fourth wicket with Captain Hope, who contributed an 88-ball 86 after coming in at 27 for 2. Then Rutherford and Justin Greaves blasted 95 runs off just 57 balls for the fifth wicket. Greaves scored the winning runs and finished on an unbeaten 41 off 31 balls with West Indies were in trouble for much of the first half of their chase.
West Indies' required rate came down to a run a ball, with just 37 needed. Bangladesh's innings had also revolved around three significant partnerships. They got off to a quick start before Soumya fell in the fifth over. Soumya, fresh from becoming the Global Super League's Player of the Tournament, struck Alzarri Joseph for consecutive fours before falling caught behind later in the same over. Litton Das followed him shortly afterwards, getting caught behind to Romario Shepherd.
Tanzid Hasan, however had already struck a straight six and three fours. He added 79 runs for the third wicket with Captain Mehidy, who survived two chances, with Carty dropping him on 1 and
31. Mehidy rode his luck, top-scoring with 74. Tanzid looked by far the more confident of the two, hitting two more sixes over long-off and finding boundaries all around the wicket.
Tanzid, however, fell against the run of play in the 24th over when Joseph had him caught at point. He made a run-a-ball 60, walking off disappointed at missing out on a bigger score. Mehidy, meanwhile, continued to rotate the strike with
the returning Afif Hossain. The fourth-wicket pair added 54 before Shepherd got Afif caught on the leg-side boundary.
Mehidy eventually made 74 off 101 balls, hitting six fours and a superb whipped six over fine-leg off Jayden Seales. He fell to the same bowler in the 38th over, skying to extra cover where Rutherford took the catch. Mehidy had laid the perfect foundation for Jaker Ali and Mahmudullah, who added 96 runs for the sixth wicket, 84 of which came in the last 10 overs. Mahmudullah smashed three sixes on the leg side, and as many fours, in his unbeaten 50 off 44 balls.
They lost both Brandon King and Evin Lewis in the first powerplay and couldn't get going against Bangladesh's fast-bowling trio.
Tanzim Hasan Sakib trapped King lbw for 9 off 17 when he tried to pull one that wasn't short enough, and Rana struck Lewis's back pad in front of the stumps with a 148.9 kilome -
this third-wicket partnership, and the required rate reached eight an over with 21 overs remaining in the chase. That's when Hope slammed his opposite number Mehidy Hasan Miraz down the ground for six. It broke a spell of 28 balls without a boundary.
That hit opened the floodgates as Rutherford struck Mehidy for a four and a six in the 32nd over, before driving Taskin Ahmed for a boundary in the 33rd. Hope hammered Rishad down the ground for sixes in consecutive overs, and Rutherford, bothered by the short ball until this point, pulled Rana for a six in between. He reached his fifty in the 36th over.
Mehidy then gave Bangladesh a lifeline when he had Hope caught at deep midwicket, but the 99-run fourth-wicket stand had already given West Indies much-needed impetus. Greaves then hit three fours in as many overs, and ensured he kept the momentum going.
Rutherford then upped the ante when he pulled Tanzim for his third six, following it up with his fourth in the following over off Mehidy. Rutherford reached his highest ODI score in the 43rd over, with twin sixes off Taskin. When Greaves carved Tanzim through the covers in the following over,
Jaker also struck three sixes, one of them off Joseph landing outside the stadium's premises. He made 48 off 40 balls, falling off the penultimate ball of the innings to Shepherd, who finished with three wickets. Jaker and Mahmudullah struck all their six sixes in the last 6.3 overs of Bangladesh's innings. (ESPNcricinfo)
West Indies
(T: 295 runs from 50 ovs)
Brandon King lbw
b Tanzim Hasan Sakib 9
Evin Lewis lbw
b Nahid Rana 16
Keacy Carty c Mehidy Hasan Miraz
b Rishad Hossain 21
Shai Hope (c)† c Jaker Ali
b Mehidy Hasan Miraz 86
Sherfane Rutherford c Nahid Rana
b Soumya Sarkar 113
Justin Greaves not out 41
Roston Chase not out 2
Extras (lb 2, nb 1, w 4) 7
Total 47.4 Ov (RR: 6.18) 295/5
Did not bat: Romario Shepherd, Gudakesh Motie, Jayden Seales, Alzarri Joseph
(Soumya Sarkar, 4.5 ov), 2-46 (Litton Das, 7.2 ov), 3-125 (Tanzid Hasan, 23.3 ov), 4-179 (Afif Hossain, 33.5 ov), 5-198 (Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 37.3 ov), 6-294 (Jaker Ali, 49.5 ov) •
DRS
Bowling O-M-R-W
Alzarri Joseph 10-1-67-2
Jayden Seales 10-0-63-1
Romario Shepherd 10-1-51-3
Justin Greaves 7-0-50-0
Roston Chase 3-0-16-0
Gudakesh Motie 10-0-42-0
Fall of wickets: 1-27 (Brandon King, 7.5 ov), 2-27 (Evin Lewis, 8.1 ov), 3-94 (Keacy Carty, 21.4 ov), 4-193 (Shai Hope, 37.1 ov), 5-288
(Sherfane Rutherford, 46.4 ov) •
DRS
Bowling O-M-R-W
Taskin Ahmed 9-1-53-0
Tanzim Hasan Sakib 10-1-55-1
Nahid Rana 8.4-0-50-1
Rishad Hossain 9-0-49-1
Mehidy Hasan Miraz 9-0-62-1
Soumya Sarkar 2-0-24-1
Mahmudullah brought all his experience into the finisher's role
Shai Hope and Sherfane Rutherford added 99 runs for the fourth wicket
Shai Hope's half-century kept West Indies' chase alive
Sherfane Rutherford celebrates his maiden hundred
Jaker Ali gave Bangladesh a crucial end-overs push
Waramuri oust Marian Academy from top spot in MVP Sports final
Waramuri Primary’s girls held their nerve on Saturday afternoon to pull off a major upset against defending champions Marian Academy to clinch the MVP Sports Girls’ Under-11 Schools’ football championship.
The final was a hotly-contested one that went all the way down to penalties after regulation and extra time could not determine a winner.
The parents, supporters, and fans at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground found themselves enraptured in end-to-end action as both sides fearlessly sent shots to the opposition’s net.
While the first half was a pretty even one where the
Region One side were still finding their footing, Marian Academy had their chances, but could not pierce the nets.
Waramuri’s confidence grew in the second segment as more shots from their camp edged closer and closer to the opposing goal. However, they found no success as Marian’s keeper kept her head on and utilised her quick reflexes to keep her sheet clean.
When extra time rolled around, the Region One outfit was unstoppable and Marian resorted to playing a more defensive game, hindering their chances at putting on any attacking runs.
Terrence Ali National Open to begin this Friday
This weekend, the Andrew "Six Heads" Lewis Cym in Albouystown, Georgetown will be engulfed in fistic fury as the annual Terrence Ali National Open Boxing Championship is staged.
Set to punch off at 17:00h on Friday, December 13, the event will culminate what has been a busy 2024 season for the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA).
Regarding the upcoming event, GBA President Steve Ninvalle said, “The Terrence Ali National Open Championship is the most prominent local event on our calendar of activities and fittingly brings to a conclusion a very successful and fruitful year for the discipline. Traditionally, the championship has served as that bridge or conduit between the realms of amateur and professional, and while the advancement of the amateur game, both on the local and international circuit, has evolved in every facet, the importance of the event has duly followed suit.”
“This tournament is an exhibition of Guyana’s best and offers a glimpse into our present and immediate future in the amateur segment or possible professional ranks. Household names
are established at this juncture, but more important from a developmental perspective, it is an exhibition in the association’s structural and refinement process of the pugilists’ respective skills given the pathway they would have undertaken from the nursery, novices, and intermediate stages. This is a pathway that has been established and built upon given its importance in the overall development of the pugilists, and we aim to strengthen this procedure to ensure that all fighters are properly equipped with the necessary tools so that they are prepared for the international rigours of an
amateur career or the professional realm,” Ninvalle further shared.
The event, which ends at the same location on December 15, will have its weigh-in and medical evaluation exercise on Thursday, December 12, under the supervision of qualified experts.
A number of prominent gyms have confirmed their participation, including the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Defence Force, the Forgotten Youth Foundation, Pace and Power, New Amsterdam Academy, Rose Hall, Vergenoegen, and Republicans.
At the penalty mark, Marian’s first two shots were defended by the tournament’s eventual best goalkeeper, while Waramuri found the back of the net for three of their shots, resulting in their 3-0 win on penalties.
Earlier, St John the Baptist Primary pulled off a victory in the third-place playoff to secure their podium position over their regional mates, Potaro Primary.
An own goal on the part of Potaro Primary handed St John the Baptist the lead
in the 17th minute. Then, in the 28th minute, Jaziah Rodrigues made it a 2-0 affair in St John’s favour for the victory.
For the tournament’s individual awards, West Ruimveldt’s Ariel Farley, who earlier in the day netted a hat-trick in a 3-0 victory that led her side to the fifthplace accolade, ended up as the tournament’s highest goal scorer, netting 18 goals in the competition.
Waramuri Primary’s Attai Harris was the best goalkeeper, while Haley
Haberkorn of Marian Academy was determined to be the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP).
The MVP Sports Girls’ U11 champions carted off $100,000 for a school project of their choice while the second, third and fourth-place finishers will receive $75,000, $50,000 and $25,000 for the same purpose. Aside from the title sponsors, the tournament was also supported by Guyana Beverages Inc’s Busta Brand and V&V Distributor’s Soft and Pretty.
Ravens and Eagles pull off big opening-day wins
Defending champions North Ruimveldt Ravens and runners-up Stabroek Eagles ignited the flair at the National Gymnasium on Saturday as they secured opening-day wins in the Guyana Basketball Federation One Guyana Basketball League.
The Mambas saw themselves on the losing side of the stick against North Ruimveldt led by a young offensive unit of Atilla Williamson and Alroy Nurse. Despite the first quarter seeing counterplays from both sides of the court, the scores were level at 11 apiece.
In the second quarter, the Ravens continued to showcase their shooting ability, passive plays, and defensive core to establish an 11-point lead; at the end of that period, the scoreline read 32-21.
The Ravens appeared to be on course for a win, as they went on to score 21 points for a total of 53. The Mambas were restricted to 16 points for a total of 37.
The North Ruimveldt Ravens would see themselves as a leader in their
group point standings as they bagged a 25-point victory with the scoreline being 75-50.
With 14 points, Williamson and Nurse led the Ravens’ offensive attack and received support from Nikkolai Simth with 13 points and fol lowing close ly was Terrence Daniels with 12 points. On the losing side, Jared Sears, with his shot-taking, bucketed 20 points.
their quest to reign su preme once and for all, started with a bang as they clinched victory against the University of Guyana Trojans, who started in excitement, grabbing an early three-point lead with the scores being 19-16.
four-point lead, putting the basketball through the hoop for 18 points while the Trojans were limited to 11 points for a scoreline that read 34-30.
The second quarter was hectic for the offensive unit of Travis Belgrave and Zian Gray as they pounced on the Trojans to turn a three-point deficit into a
The Eagles would continue to dominate the game in the third quarter as they increased the margin of separation to 13 points, bucketing 25 points and their defensive unit showed their style as the Trojans were kept to 16 points, for a Stabroek Eagles then secured a 12-point victory against the University of Guyana Trojans with the scoreboard reading 8270.
Belgrave showed his class as he led the points standings with 22 points, followed closely by Gray (21 points) while on the other side, Kadeem Peterkin contributed 17 points and Jushawn Bailey, 12.
Waramuri Primary receive their championship trophy from MVP Sports’ Ian Ramdeo in the presence of other stakeholders
GBA President Steve Ninvalle
Haley Haberkorn was the tournament’s MVP
Ariel Farley was the tournament’s highest goalscorer
