Guyana Times - Monday, June 3, 2024

Medical practitioners, educators trained to effectively assess patients

Govt looking to incentivise more job creation outside of city – Finance Minister

33 female inmates complete sexual offences, substance abuse training

Govt looking to incentivise more job creation outside of city – Finance Minister

…says employers must explore ways of reaching more job seekers

As part of its efforts to not only increase, but to diversify job creation, Senior Minister in the Office for the President with Responsibility for Finance and Public Service Dr Ashni Singh has revealed that the government is working to incentivise more job creation in areas outside the city.

Dr Singh made this disclosure during a recent workshop, where he acknowledged that there is a

heavy concentration of jobs in the city and, in particular, around the mouth of the Demerara River and other areas in Region Three and Four.

“Apart from what we are doing in government to promote training, we recognise too that there isn’t an even dispersion of the jobs that are being created, geographically. So, there’s a far heavier concentration of jobs being created around the mouth of the Demerara River essentially. West Demerara and Georgetown and East Bank Demerara.”

“For that reason, we are working diligently to create and incentivise the creation of jobs outside of Georgetown. So that more people outside of Georgetown can work. So, I urge you as employers to

ask yourselves the following questions,” Dr Singh said.

The finance minister noted that during his community meetings, many persons describe their challenges in seeking jobs. According to the minister, issues such as access to information has to be addressed.

“What can you do, to be

able to attract more persons into work? While you describe the challenge of not being able to retain people, I still go to communities where I am told there are people looking for jobs. And I have formed the conclusion that there are a number of issues that have to be addressed, including better

information on the labour market.”

Dr Singh noted that while there are people looking for work, there is a disconnect that causes these unemployed persons and recruiters not to meet. As such, he noted that both employers and the government have to do more to sensitise persons on job opportunities.

“You will have over 10,000 persons leaving fifth form at the end of this month, looking for jobs. Some will go on to higher education, some will go on to look for jobs. And I have often asked myself the question, is there more we can do to ensure these young people know what the job opportunities are out there?”

CONTINUED

Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Monday, June 3 –02:00h-03:30h and Tuesday, June 4 – 02:30h-04:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Monday, June 3 –14:05h-15:35h and Tuesday, June 4 – 15:00h-16:30h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery to light rain showers are expected during the day and at night, with sunshine in the late afternoon. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to South-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 14:12h reaching a maximum height of 2.50 metres.

Low Tide: 07:43h and 20:01h reaching minimum heights of 0.63 metre and 0.71 metre.

Guyana’s infrastructure push aimed at 2030 & beyond – Edghill …says

GGovt committed to delivering value for money

uyana’s massive infrastructure push is one aimed at ensuring a legacy that lasts for 2030 and beyond according to Public Works Minister, Juan Edghill, the government is cognisant of the need to ensure value for money in these projects.

During a recent workshop held at the Marriott Hotel to empower staff with the skills and knowledge to adapt to evolving development needs and construct high-performing roads and infrastructure.

According to Edghill, the government is committed to not only delivering value for money on projects, but building long lasting projects that will leave a legacy that outlasts the 2030 benchmark and beyond.

“The government of Guyana, we are committed to delivering value for money. We don’t just wanna say we spent money on a project, we want to be able to build it. And in case anybody is thinking we’re just doing things for short term, this President Irfaan Ali administration, whatever we’re doing is not for five years or 10 years.”

“It’s for legacy. Because where we are now, we must be building out for the future. You would have heard the President talking about 2030 and beyond. And that 2030 and beyond vision is what will make a big difference.”

But to do this requires the commitment of the technical staff. And Minister Edghill made it clear to the technical staff of the need to constantly seek to build capacity. Hence the calling of the workshop.

“I want us to take a hard look at the realities. You are the ones who attended the Universities, wrote the exams, you studied the technologies and did the readings. Well, if there’s anything I would like to see coming out of this workshop, is not just the transfer of information and knowledge. But we should also be looking to see, is there something we should be doing that we’re not doing? That can make what we’re doing, better? Because ultimately, what we want is better results.

You think that’s a good way to go? So, we should have that conversation among ourselves.”

It was explained by the Ministry that the aim of the training is to enhance the

works being undertaken in communities affect community members and to ensure that projects are completed on time and within the allocated budget,” a statement from the Ministry said.

bring an end to closures to vehicular traffic with a 50-metre fixed-high span to cater for the free flow of vessels uninterrupted. The river will be dredged along a 13.5-kilometre stretch to accommodate large vessels.

Back in 2022, $21.1 billion was allocated towards work on the bridge. The CRCCL (International) Limited-led joint venture outbid four other pre-qualified international companies that submitted proposals for the project.

In the months before the contract was awarded, the Guyana Government, through a team of specialists – legal and engineer-

efficiency of the roads and supporting structures being built by the Ministry of Public Works and to equip staff with the necessary tools to meet evolving development demands.

Those in attendance included Senior Managers, Engineers, Clerks of Works and Technicians from the Ministry of Public Works who operate in various Regions across Guyana, along with some technical officers from the Ministry of Local Government.

Training topics included Procurement and Finance, Survey and Assessment, Best practices in Design, Innovative Construction Methods, Innovative Management Strategies, Durability and Reliability of Road Works, Rigid and Flexible Pavement Systems, among other important aspects.

“Minister Edghill admonished staff of the Ministry of Public Works, to be mindful of how the

“He recalled that as per the Audit General’s Reports, overpayment on contracts was significant under the previous Ministry of Public Infrastructure, but that has since been significantly reduced. He also added, that very soon in the National Assembly he will be tabling the Engineers’ Bill which will see other improvements for the building sector.

The PPP/C government is undertaking a number of massive projects with a 2030 and beyond focus, including the US$260 million Demerara River Bridge which will have a lifespan of 100 years… far eclipsing the lifespan of the old bridge.

The new bridge will be a fixed 2.65-kilometre, four-lane, high-span, cable-stayed structure across the Demerara River, with the width of the driving surface being about 23.6 metres. The bridge, which features a bicycle lane, will

ing – was in negotiations with the Chinese company to finalise the terms of the contract.

Another long-term project will be the Gasto-Energy project, which will have a lifespan of 25 years when complete. It will feature approximately 220 kilometres of a subsea pipeline offshore from the Liza Destiny and Liza Unity floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessels in the Stabroek Block to Wales, West Coast Demerara. Upon landing on shore, the pipeline will continue for approximately 25 kilometres to the Natural Gas Liquid (NGL) plant to be constructed at Wales. The pipeline would be 12 inches in diameter and is expected to transport some 50 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd) of dry gas to the NGL plant, but has the capacity to push as much 120 mmscfd. (G3)

The Gas-to-Energy Project

The new Demerara River bridge will have a 100-year lifespan

Editor: Tusika Martin

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A clear and present danger

The arrest of a talk-show host on a social media platform and subsequent charge under the Cyber Crime Act should be a wakeup call for the authorities to institute systems to monitor and control activities in this new burgeoning communication area to prevent harm from being committed. He used a computer system to encourage a criminal offence against the President of Guyana and three other named high-ranking members of the Government –namely that they be gotten rid of. This is not a hypothetical issue in Guyana and our laws and systems of societal norms should take cognisance of the nature of our societal fractures and our history of individuals using incendiary language that led to outbreaks of violence and mayhem.

In this instance, a caller to a talk show was allowed by the host to develop very explicitly his rationale and methodology for “getting rid” of the four high officials. At no time did the host attempt to interrupt or cut off the caller by pronouncing that the promotion of violence over the medium was prohibited. Additionally, the host, as an executive of a fringe political entity, has been engaging for years in first defining the Government as “illegally installed”; then instituting an “apartheid regime” and most recently that it was actually “fascist”. As such, the host, for years, has been encouraging his audience to “remove” the Government from office. It had become commonplace for callers to suggest that violence be used to accomplish this goal without the authorities taking any action. Hate speech, which is speech that offends or attacks people based on their identity or characteristics such as race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability or disease, is common on this site as it relates to Indian Guyanese in general and those who support the Government in particular.

It was only after the caller made his argument and signed off that the host made an equivocal and perfunctory disclaimer: “I don’t necessarily endorse the promotion of violence, but I do subscribe to the fact that Guyana could very well be a better place if we see the backs of some of these politicians.” In criminal law, incitement is the encouragement of another person to commit a crime. In common-law jurisdictions like ours, incitement to murder is illegal and is known as an inchoate offence, where harm is intended but may or may not have actually occurred. The court would usually evaluate the matter on an objective test basis without taking into account the intentions of the caller or host, but rather what a reasonable person listening to the exhortation may be prompted to do as a result of the call.

The talk show host and his partisans have already jumped on the bandwagon of “free speech” which they claim is now being trampled by the Government which they conclude must be behind the Police action. But there have always been limits to “free speech”, primarily incitement, defamation, fraud, obscenity, child pornography, fighting words, and threats. Incitement invariably leads the list and is never to be taken lightly. It is always a question of fact, however, and this will be the main issue when the extant case comes up for trial. The US has taken the lead on protecting free speech ever since they incorporated it into the First Amendment of their Constitution. In terms of the specific incitement under consideration, their courts have honed in on “true threats”, making a threat directed at someone and causing them to believe their injury or death is likely to occur, and “fighting words”, using such inflammatory speech towards a group and knowing that it will almost certainly cause a response. These are both paradigmatic examples of speech that do not receive First Amendment protections.

Our courts can expect that the lawyers for the talk show host will go after the cybercrime legislation as infringing on free speech. They can use the US “strict scrutiny” approach that is used when a protected right might be threatened. Here, they will have to prove that the intent of the law was not to curtail free speech and secondly, there is a compelling government interest in curtailing incitement.

Mischief of law breakers

Dear Editor, Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Carolyn RodriguesBirkett, recently indicated, “There is no justification for the killing of innocent civilians and the Geneva Conventions of 1949 are clear on the obligation to protect civilians.” The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), was established by the new United Nations on the 10th December 1948 and is the foundation for a 7 million strong Amnesty International.

The UDHR provides a 30 rights global roadmap for freedom and equality, protects the rights for individuals everywhere without discrimination, persecutes violators who deny individuals to live their lives freely, equally and in dignity and promotes a campaign to take action for justice, freedom and truth wherever it has been denied. Human rights are international, indivisible and interdepen-

dent. They permeate every nook and cranny in any crevice where human beings habituate their habitats.

Of much interest are the following Articles with much emphasis on # 29: (7) We are all are equal before the law; (8) Everyone has the right to seek justice if their rights are violated; (12) Everyone has the right to privacy and freedom from attacks on their reputation; (24) Everyone has the right to rest and leisure; (29) We have a duty to other people and we should protect their rights and freedoms.

In our delicate, debauched and demoniac society today, the disgusting issue of noise nuisance, law breakers and public obscenity, align themselves to affront: the decency of moral dignity; the right to reside in a peaceful neighbourhood; the right to rest and sleep at night; the right not to be traumatised by wilful disruptions; the right to live in a healthy environment; the right not to be endangered by

criminal activities; the right not to be invaded by intruders; the right not to have their private property defaced to say the least. The above-mentioned unsolicited requisites are simply the tip of the iceberg for what should be automatically enjoyed in Guyana and a civilised community that respect law and order and abide with established rules and regulations.

These inflamed elements are factored in a volatile package which tear away at the very cusp of many communities and cry the tune of a broken record. Sadly, they go noticeably silent on the relevant authoritative sources who are armed to provide for the protection of the very society which contribute to their well-being. Even when complaints are lodged, they may be ignored, treated inappropriately, regarded as a joke and with a dismissive response, swept under the carpet or left hanging in mid-air. The matter may be tolerably addressed in the form of

informal discussion but without applicable recourse for any tangible redress with immediate remedial effect. The intolerable menace of Noise Nuisance often originates from bars which function in the heart of communities, disrupting the peace and tranquillity of residents, students, babies and young ones, the sick and the elderly. When it’s not the loud music with an open park concert type volume, it’s the loud, lousy and ludicrous shouting conversations and the foul language from drunk, uncaring and unconcerned patrons. Dem Byes Se “All dis loud music na jus drown out conversation, it drown out humanity!” Then, there is the ear shattering noise which emanates from drivers competing with the DJ from a Rock concert. The ‘show off’ drivers and bikers screech their tires as if they are on the race track in South Dakota.

President Dr Irfaan Ali receiving a personalised official West Indies Cricket (WIC) jersey at the opening match of the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men's T20 Cricket World Cup at the Guyana National Stadium in Providence (Office of the President photo)

Family seeking answers on fatal shooting

Dear Editor,

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the tragic killing of Jared Jagnandan, as detailed in a recent article. Months have passed since this horrific event, and it is disheartening to learn that Jared’s family is still awaiting justice while the Guyana Police Force seeks advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Jared, an 18-yearold with a bright future ahead of him, was senselessly killed on March 21, 2024, at Shaf Auto Sales in Lusignan, East Coast Demerara. According to the police report, Jared was shot by a 20-yearold security officer. Jared was taken to Woodlands

Hospital but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries.

It is deeply troubling that despite the gravity of this incident, Jared’s family has not seen significant progress in the investigation. It appears that the investigation by both the Guyana Police Force and the DPP’s chambers is experiencing delays that raise concerns about fairness and transparency. It is my hope that the Security Service and Auto Dealership that are both affluent and influential individuals are being dealt with by the Guyana Police Force in a completely fair and transparent manner. However, the security service and

auto dealership continue their operations without significant pressure, while the family of the deceased remains devastated, distressed and inadequately informed. This situation raises broader concerns about whether the system in Guyana disproportionately protects the wealthy and privileged, potentially neglecting the needs and rights of the poor and working class. The comparison drawn with recent cases where swift judicial action was initiated undoubtedly underscores a perceived disparity in treatment. Every existing citizen deserves equal access to justice, and the delays in this case undermine public trust in our

legal system. As a mother myself, this is terrifying to say the least.

The allegations of negligence against security company are serious. The company is accused of allowing a security guard to possess a loaded firearm without proper licensing. Additionally, the company has reportedly failed to cooperate with the police by withholding records that are legally required. The parents of Jared have called for the directors of the security company to be held criminally responsible under the Private Security Act and for the revocation of the company’s security and firearm licenses. These demands are understandable given

Mischief of law...

The already small streets, are filled with vehicles parked on both sides, alluding to traffic congestion, cars parked illegally in residents’ driveways, cars blocking the entrances and exits of side streets and drivers experiencing nightmares in order to navigate a passage way to get in or out of the streets. In event of an ambulance or fire truck answering a call of emergency or urgency, do fear for the worse and the unacceptable.

More so, customers would loiter and lime in front of these bars, drinking, cursing and engaging in rowdy, rambunctious and reckless discussions. They would litter the streets with paper cups, plastic glasses, bottles, cigarette butts and food containers. Their loud voices compete with lawless laughs and shouting matches. Their garbage is also thrown in the drains which form the base for breeding grounds for insects, mosquitoes and flies which contribute to the danger of health hazards.

While these strangers visit the bar, they present a security risk for unwanted company infiltrating a community with hidden agenda and crimi-

nal intentions. Suspicious drug trafficking is not uncommon along with undeclared activities which do not saturate the day.

The normal smell of cigarettes is adulterated with other scented flavours to pollute the air! Butts from other stems are carefully hunted for, in the following morning, either to remove evidence of illegality or to be enjoyed for that last whiff and puff.

The disgusting mayhem of Public Obscenity dominates the order of the night and male and female indulge in exposing their privates openly. They can be seen urinating in the most comfortable positions and not bothered by who is witnessing such a despicable performance. The men can be seen deliberately looing and urinating on the premises of residents’ properties as if it is an accepted norm in the context of a Wild West society. Defacing people’s fences is an attribute of anarchic and uncivilised people who are not ashamed of their proud behaviour. Vomiting in the streets is another unsightly and upsetting scene. You can view stray dogs lapping up the mess for food or flies feasting on a meal.

The alarming mischief of law breakers are encouraged to continue to be on the wrong side of justice and are tolerated, encouraged and yes, protected by those with incentive interests! Over crowed bars are good for the business owners but bad for the insurance companies. Opening past the curfew time is good for the customers, better for the businesses and best for the bar owners. This is bad for the antagonising surroundings, worse for the sleepless residents and worst for the peace of the community. How can bars be allowed to operate past the 2am closing time and operate until 6am?

FROM PAGE 4

This three-dimensional sickening nuisance unfortunately combine together, form the nucleus of an attack on humanity, sanity and dignity. Its indecency questions the very essence of respect, regard and reproach to rationalise and resurrect the request for residents in the rural areas to remain relatively resolute in the appeal for the law to take its justified course. This is not a chosen challenge, nor is it too much to ask from those with a clear conscience, nor is it circumspectly contemplating a cynical counterstroke!

Yours respectfully, Jai

Lall

the circumstances.

Jared’s family has also raised concerns about Shaf Auto Sales Inc. It is alarming that the auto dealership, where Jared was employed as a marketing and sales representative, allegedly failed to provide immediate assistance. Instead, they deferred to the security company, which took over 10 minutes to reach the crime scene and transport Jared to the hospital.

The family is urging the authorities to investigate the dealership’s potential criminal responsibility in this matter, and I share their concerns.

The family's anguish is palpable, and their plea for justice is both urgent and justified. They fear that without swift action, those responsible may evade accountability, and Jared's death will be forgotten. This delay in justice is not only painful for Jared's family but also undermines public confidence in the legal system.

The family's call for a full

and transparent investigation is crucial to ensuring accountability and preventing similar tragedies in the future.

I therefore humbly urge the relevant authorities to expedite the investigation and ensure that justice is served swiftly and fairly. Jared's family deserves closure, and the community needs reassurance that such negligence and recklessness will not be tolerated. It is imperative that both Cerberus Security Inc. and Shaf Auto Sales Inc. are held accountable for their roles in this tragic event.

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. May your publications continue to shed light on issues that demand justice, and ensure that Jared Jagnandan's memory serves as a catalyst for positive change in our pursuit of a just society.

Sincerely,

Nadezhda Stephens Very Concerned Citizen

06:00 (Sign on) Inspiration Time

Evening News (RB)

Cartoons

Stop Suffering

Stay Woke

Guy's Grocery Games

Grand Designs

Paternity Court

Divorce Court

Indian Movie - ABCD (Any Body Can Dance) (2013)

Kickin' It S2 E17

The Young & The Restless

SportsCenter (ESPN)

Page Foundation

CSEC MATHS

He's the Man

Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you the candidate for Dimsville. He is the man who will make all your dreams come true. He is the man who will fulfil all your wishes. He is the man who will stand by you through thick and thin. Our opponents say that he comes from a foreign country and he is not one of you. I must thank them for their kind comments because that is just what you need his exposure to a developed world. He is equipped with the best ideas that will create opportunities for you.

Don't you need steady jobs? And how about a school like that which the other areas have? Yes, my friends. You need to live like valued citizens. Not like oppressed slaves in endless destitution.

10 Your lives are not a journey into the Promised Land. You wander in a vast wilderness where hostile forces of humanity hound you with relentless cruelty. Your daily bread is sickness and worry, hunger and disease. Your hovels are dens of misery filled with empty hopes and despair. Have you considered the future of the children?

Look at this man; the man who will make your dreams come true; the man who will give you your wishes, the man who cares enough to come to your village.

Source: Unknown

1. When the speaker says, "You need to live like valued citizens" (lines 7), he attempts to (A) change the villager's way of life (B) make the villagers feel good about their selves (C) make the villagers feel they are treated well by their representatives (D) change the villager's views of their lives so that they choose his candidate

2. The name Dimsville is suitable for the village because (A) it is an important name (B) there is no electricity in the village (C) it is named after someone who used to live there (D) the villagers feel hopeless because they lack basic amenities

3. In paragraph 1, the speaker repeats the words "He is the man" because he wants to (A) present the candidate (B) emphasize the power the candidate possesses (C) impress upon the audience that he is offering

them the best person for the job (D) inform the villagers that they need a man an not a woman to represent them

4. Which of the following devices is NOT used in the speech? (A) Pun (B) Metaphor (C) Repetition (D) Rhetorical question

5. The purpose of the speech is to (A) introduce a new product (B) find out the needs of the audience (C) condemn the efforts of the opponents (D) condemn the efforts of the opponents

6. The speech was MOST likely given at a (A) board meeting (B) business meeting (C) political meeting (D) church meeting

EPA Head urges channelling “ecoanxiety into cautious optimism”

…as annual Green Walk held across Guyana ahead of World Environment Day

In the face of existential threats from various phenomenon such as climate change, Guyanese are being urged to adopt sustainable actions that would ensure a better future.

This call was made by Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Kemraj Parsram, on Sunday at the annual Green Walk in Georgetown – held ahead of the June 5 observance of World Environment Day 2024.

World Environment Day is designated by the United Nations (UN) to raise awareness on the need for collective climate action to protect and restore the planet. The theme of this year’s observance is “land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience.”

meaningful steps towards a sustainable future instead of harbouring on the negatives.

is evident in the recent drought and the wild/forest fires experienced.

ness to embrace change. This story reflects real possibilities. It’s a testament to what can happen when we channel our anxiety into proactive, positive change and work together – government community and the private sector all.”

“As we leave here today… let’s be inspired by the power of community, the importance of small actions and the belief that we can turn the tide. Together, we can replace eco-anxiety with cautious optimism and work towards a resilient and thriving Guyana,” the EPA’s Executive Director implored.

"We are here on the Essequibo Coast celebrating World Environment Day ...This is one of our signature events that we usually host to observe the day. Thank you for coming out, braving the weather, and being here to celebrate this milestone with us," Singh said.

Sunday’s Green Walk in Georgetown saw participation from schools, the private sector and the public sector including ministries and state agencies. The approximately 80-member contingent encouraged patrons and onlookers to 'save the earth and protect the forest.'

“Acknowledge your anxiety but don’t let it paralyse you, instead let it propel you to action. Engage with your community, educate yourselves on sustainable practices and support and participate in innovative environmental stewardship.”

“Replacing eco-anxiety with cautious optimism

He noted that, despite communities there engaging in traditional farming methods and low deforestation rates, the farming community was particularly impacted by these events. They struggled with declining yields and long periods of drought.

One of the affected farmers, 78-year-old Ernest managed to transform his

Addressing the gathering in the National Park following the march, the EPA Executive Director pointed out that threats such as extreme droughts and floods, biodiversity loss, land degradation and other environmental issues are real and this “doom and gloom” narrative can be overwhelming. However, he outlined how persons can transform their ‘eco-anxiety’ into ‘cautious optimism’ by taking

doesn’t mean ignoring the gravity of our situation. It means that believing in our collective adaptability, innovation and perseverance. And it’s about seeing each step forward no matter how small it is as a victory in the larger battle for our planet’s future,” Parsram stated.

The EPA Head went onto to highlight a case at Coomaka, North-West District in Region One (Barima-Waini), where the impact of climate change

situation into one of resilience and innovation.

According to Parsram, with support from the Agriculture Extension Officers and the Carbon Credit Funds, Ernest and his community invested in rainwater harvesting and storage, and diversified their cash crops beyond cassava. They are also exploring sustainable farming practices to combat soil degradation and harnessing the energy of the sun.

“Today, something

remarkable is happening. The palpable sense of eco-anxiety is shifting. People who were once powerless are now part of community-driven movement. Ernest is displaying cautious optimism and his outlook is contagious, spreading hope and determination throughout his village,” the EPA Head noted.

This transformation, Parsram pointed out, is not just environmental. He said Ernest’s community discovered that by taking action, no matter how small, they could make a difference.

“They learned that resilience comes from unity, innovation and the willing-

In addition to Georgetown, the EPA’s annual Green Walk was also held across Guyana including in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) on June 2.

Following the walk, which began at 6:00h, started near Reliance Ballfield in Reliance and concluded at the Anna Regina Car Park tarmac in Anna Regina, where a short programme was held.

Speaking there, an EPA representative, Surujpaul Singh, expressed gratitude to the participants for their involvement in the walk and for observing World Environment Day in the region.

He emphasised the significance of World Environment Day, noting, June 5th is celebrated as World Environment Day, the day the EPA was actually formed. Singh further highlighted the focus on global issues such as land degradation and its impact on biodiversity and freshwater resources.

"Our Environment Day is dedicated to raising awareness of critical environmental issues, from climate change to chemical pollution. This day serves to mobilise hundreds of people to take action to protect the planet."

World Environment Day was first celebrated in 1973, and for 52 years, the United Nations has marked this day to raise awareness of critical environmental issues.

The Green Walk event also featured awards for the best chant, best banner, largest contingent, consistency, and uniformity. (G8)

Participants during Sunday’s Green Walk in observance of World Environment Day 2024

The Region Two leg of the Green Walk on Sunday

Robbery accused remanded over break-in at Stabroek Market

…$3M in items stolen

Aman who has been recently charged with armed robbery has been remanded to jail on new accusations of breaking and entering, as well as larceny.

Cordell Eastman, 32, of Guyhoc Park, Georgetown, is alleged to have breaking into several stalls in Stabroek Market, Georgetown, stealing items valued at over $3 million. These incidents allegedly occurred between May 25 and 27, with Eastman reportedly acting in concert with others. The stolen goods included cellular phones, Amazon firesticks, and silver jewelry.

At court, Police

Prosecutor Christopher Morris requested that Eastman be denied bail due to the seriousness of the charges and the pending armed robbery case against him. Morris also indicated that additional charges for breaking and entering and larceny may be forthcoming.

Eastman's attorney, Stacy Goodings, in a bail application argued that Eastman was subjected to severe police brutality while in custody. Goodings in her application told the court that the beating was so intense it rendered Eastman unconscious, and the police initially refused to provide medical care.

She said it was only after she filed a complaint with the Police Complaint Authority (PCA) that Eastman was taken to the hospital. Goodings has since indicated that further legal action against the

police officers involved will be pursued, stating that her client was also denied the opportunity to contact his lawyer during detention.

Despite these arguments, Senior Magistrate Leron Daly denied bail and Eastman was remanded. He is scheduled to appear in court later this month.

Previously, Eastman and three other men were charged in connection with a gunpoint robbery, during which items totaling $240,000 and $6,350,000 were stolen. (G9)

Plotting

…inside the PNC

The minnows struggling to “cast out” Norton and his team from the PNC – so that they can “do their thing” in the Treasury if we go by the history of their party! – continue to get increasingly desperate. And we know that desperate people will do desperate things that are by definition extreme – so there’s the danger of unintended consequences. In the meantime, with his legs quite weak at this stage of his life – you think having a tuk with the boys at Bam bam alley every night is easy?! – Norton seems to be using Ali’s old rope-a-dope strategy to wear them down before he strikes back!

Having shown they’ll play the race card early in the game, the hotheads figure it’s their “trump” (!) to peg the PPP on their back foot. And boy are they playing it to the hilt!! Trouble is, they haven’t managed to get rid of the Jokers in the pack and with Jesse’s son in the house, played their “race” trump at every opportunity!! Out in Linden– where they had boycotted the independence celebration Burnham had “won” as his 30 pieces of silver – they complained about everything under the sun – and then some – of what the PPP had done to them!! They seem to forget that this ain’t the Congressman’s first rodeo!! They tried the same thing at Mocha – and your Eyewitness fully expected someone would be rolling in the mud to show the Congressman exactly how they were violated when they were being evicted for squatting and had gotten alternative land!!

Now lo and behold we have floods in Region 9 from the extreme rainfall there and of course, guess who’s being blamed?? Yep – go to the head of the class, Dear Reader!! The PPP!! Even though the washing away of a portion might be due to engineering glitches, it gotta be the PPP!! If the PPP had actually micromanaged these projects down to the engineering designs and execution, you would’ve heard screams all the way to the Pakaraimas!!

But back to the bare-knuckle in-fighting going on in Congress Place. Can you believe one point man for one of the challengers actually accused Norton of “begging” for support, because he’s visiting party members across the country?? Once again, it’s damned if he does and damned if he doesn’t press the flesh with PNCites on the ground!! But what’s so undemocratic if the leader campaigns?? Should he be so arrogant to assume that he is unassailable??

There was a fella named Green who once thought so. Until an almost faceless bureaucratic operative named Desmond Hoyte threw him out on his ears!! Go Aubrey!!

…in a cold world

During the Cold War between the USSR and the US, the combatants tried to “win the hearts and minds” of we natives emerging from colonial rule. Our leaders then tried to play them off against each other to get goodies like loans for infrastructure and social needs. We got the Linden, Corentyne and West Demerara Highways!! But the Cold War ended in 1989 and it wasn’t coincidental that we were in hock and development had long lagged.

But it looks like happy days are here again! China’s now flexing its muscles after it’s poised to replace the US as the largest economy in the world. Using the THREE TRILLION DOLLARS it accumulated from being the “factory of the US”, it’s buying friends and influencing them with its massive “Belt and Road Initiative (B&RI) that’s financing and building massive infrastructure worldwide.

Enter the US and G7 a couple of years ago with their version - -Build Back Better World (B3W) Initiative. They were gonna focus on infrastructure in climate, health and health security, digital technology, and gender equity and equality, So, what happened?

…to counter the madman We’ve hearing Mad Maduro’s massing troops across our Essequibo Border and our half of Ankoko Island Whatever happened to the five “hi-tech/high-priced” surveillance drones Ramjattan acquired to collect hard data?

Remanded: Cordell Eastman

“We’re

not losing track” of promises made to improve lives – VP Jagdeo

…says

contract for 40km of 4-lane road in Region 6 to be awarded soon

…hundreds of community roads in Berbice to also be fixed

The government is presently rolling out an ambitious infrastructure programme across the country, including in Berbice which will soon see a contract being awarded to build 40 kilometers of four lane roads.

This was according to Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, during his most recent press conference when he spoke of the administration’s infrastructure investments in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).

These range from constructing a four-lane highway in Berbice to the construction of a stadium in the region. Government has previously spoken of its plans to spend approximately US$400 Million on a four-lane highway between New Amsterdam and Moleson Creek, while works have already started at the Berbice Stadium and multipurpose centre at Palmyra.

“We’re now awarding a contract for 40 kilometers of four lane roads, in Berbice. And that would be awarded shortly. As I said before, the stadium. The incentives we’re

giving, opening up more land. You would see hotels, a lot of private investments. Shopping malls, etc,” he said. He also spoke of works being done on the community roads in Berbice.

According to Jagdeo, work will be done on not only hundreds of community roads, but play grounds as well in the ancient county.

“In New Amsterdam itself, we’re fixing all the roads in Berbice. All the community roads in Berbice. This year another 300. And every single area. We have 125 playgrounds in Berbice… 75 are being upgraded now,” Jagdeo explained.

“So, we’re not losing track of the people that we made promises to.

And we’re never going to lose track of those who we pledged to work hard for to improve their lives… we need to make sure that we keep working for the people who matter most.”

In October last year, the Public Works Ministry had signed contracts totaling $8.8 Billion for road works in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne). Most of those who were awarded contracts on Wednesday are new contractors.

The contracts to build 287 concrete roads in Region Six were awarded to 201 contractors. Of these contractors, 192 were new contractors. This represents 95.5 percent. It had been explained at the time that

Govt looking to incentivise...

“Can we do more, as government and employers, to improve awareness of the job opportunities that are available? You can do things like job fairs, awareness, using social media that is more accessible to job seekers. And can we do more to create jobs, where there are persons looking for work?”

all of the 287 roads would be built with concrete.

The Guyana Government’s expansive development strategy has also seen a planned investment exceeding $120 billion for several completed and future fourlane highways. In the expansion of road networks is the Eccles to Great Diamond Interlink Road, pegged at $5 billion for 5.6 kilometres of roadway, which was commissioned in 2021.

In 2022, the $2.8 billion Mandela Avenue to Eccles four-lane Highway was commissioned, followed by the commissioning of the $13.4 billion Eccles to Great Diamond

Highway in December 2023.

Works are progressing on the Schoonord to Crane Highway, as well as on the $10.4 billion Great Diamond to Buzz Bee Dam Road. The $80.4 billion Buz Bee Dam to Land of Canaan roadway and $40.5 billion Land of Canaan to Soesdyke Highway are in the design phase.

In Budget 2024, billions of dollars have been allocated towards the completion of ongoing and new highway projects across the country, thereby opening new routes and keeping traffic jams at a minimum.

Meanwhile, the

Palmyra Stadium is a project of the Greater Guyana Initiative partners (ExxonMobil, HESS and CNOOC), to the tune of $3.7 billion, and it has a 2025 completion date. The Stadium is set to be a multipurpose facility.

After the launching last year, an artist’s impression of the Palmyra Stadium was unveiled, and President Dr Irfaan Ali had planted a tree to commemorate the launching of the construction of the Berbice Stadium. A number of cricketers who were present also planted trees in this regard. This Palmyra Stadium is slated to have a capacity of 10,000.

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government had set itself the task of creating 50,000 jobs within its first term in office. And indeed, both President Dr Irfaan Ali and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo have said that this 50,000 jobs goal has been achieved since the party assumed the reins of government in 2020. But while there are persons claiming that they are unemployed, President Ali has also said that not only is Guyana on a trajectory of constant growth that would provide even more higher-paying jobs, but the current economic growth has already opened up enough job opportunities for the number of people who are still unemployed.

number further increased by 50 per cent with 3068 persons trained.

Last year, Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton had said that the Board of Industrial Training, which was training 1300 to 1500 individuals per year, saw this number increase to 2000 just a few months after Government took office. In 2021, the

Then there is the part time job initiative, which has so far given employment to thousands. It was announced last year that over 11,000 persons were employed through the programme in Regions Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam); Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara); Five (Mahaica-Berbice); Six (East BerbiceCorentyne); Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), injecting $2.3 billion into these households since the programme started in the second half of 2022. (G3)

Cop under close arrest over alleged assault on civilian

The Office of Professional Responsibility

(OPR) has initiated an investigation into an incident involving a Police Sergeant, who allegedly assaulted a civilian on Saturday.

The Guyana Police Force stated that the sergeant is under close arrest and is cooperating with the investigation. The incident took place around 11:45h at the intersection of Camp and Church Streets, Georgetown.

According to reports, the sergeant, armed with a firearm, allegedly assaulted the civilian in an apparent road rage incident between the duo. The civilian was armed with a cutlass.

Videos recorded by passersby, which later went viral on social media, showed a confrontation between the sergeant and the civilian. In the footage, the confrontation escalated, and the officer pulled out a firearm and strikes the civilian in the face.

The civilian then walks to his car, retrieves a cutlass, and begins brandishing it. In response, the sergeant points his weapon at the civilian and allegedly says, “Do sk**nt.”

Bystanders intervened, prompting the officer to holster his weapon. The civilian subsequently returned

to his car and placed the cutlass in the trunk. A report was later filed at the Alberttown Police Station, and the civilian has undergone a medical examination.

The investigation is ongoing as the OPR seeks to ascertain the full details of the incident. (G9)

Suicide prevention webinar

Medical practitioners, educators trained to effectively assess patients

The Health Ministry under its Rural telemedicine project on Sunday conducted a suicide prevention webinar in an effort to provide medical practitioners and educators with crucial knowledge on how to assess suicide patients.

Several senior medical practitioners shared their knowledge with participants and discussed several key areas in assessing patients. Participants were also educated on several key terms used to assess patients such as aborted suicide, self-harm, suicidal intent etc.

One of the highlighted areas in which emphasis was placed was how to properly assess patients that would have attempted suicide, and in this regard, it was noted that it is important to form strong relationships with patients specifically to delve into if a patient has any suicidal ideations and identifying what is the root cause of these ideations.

Speaking at the webinar, Dr Sean Fredricks, highlighted that it is im-

portant to individualise care when dealing with suicide patients.

“It is good to individualise care, it’s not like an infection where as doctors were accustomed to just this one anti-biotic it’s going to most likely work for most of these infections,” he stated.

According to him, the reason one patient might want to end their life may vary from other individuals, who are seeking help.

He further noted that it is important to implement cultural humility according to Fredricks this is important because perspectives and norms may vary depending on where a patient resides “we need to have what is called cultural humility understanding that your perspective based on your perception of life, your upbringing, morality and so on. It’s differ-

ent to varying degrees, it will be vastly different to somebody in region one compared to somebody in region six” he stated.

Participants were also lectured on what not to do when rapport building with patients. Rapport building is an important part of building relationships with patients as such practitioners were advised to not invalidate a patient’s feelings by saying statements such as “everybody experiences stress” similarly they were advised to give patients time to speak without interrupting and pay full attention when patients are speaking. These small gestures are said to make patients more comfortable when speaking allowing them to share more information which can be used to effectively treat and assess patients.

The civilian with the cutlass

The cop at the scene of the incident

EPA to become world-class regulator – Executive Director

…$40M to be spent for oil spill response, rig inspections training

The Guyana Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has seen significant growth over the past three years, and is currently on the route of becoming a world class regulator. This is according to Executive Director of the EPA, Kemraj Parsram, who recently highlighted some of the initiatives being undertaken by the organisation to better enhance its services.

Delivering remarks on a recent edition of the Energy Perspectives, Parsram highlighted the significant strides the agency has been making to improve its capacity, he noted that the agency has seen significant growth over the past years.

“In the past three years, whilst we were established in 1996, we've grown significantly, but particularly in the last four to five years or three years going forward. And so, when we talk about growth, I can mention that from 2019, we were a staff complement of 80, roughly. As of today, we are 172 and growing. And this cadre of staff, they cover a range of engineers, biologists, chemists, lawyers, as well, communication specialists, and all in all, all of this supports the work of the agency,” he stated.

Parsram noted that the EPA has recently finalised its strategic plan for 2030, and this plan over the next five years will see several investments being made to transform the EPA into a world class regulator.

“We have actually just completed our strategic plan for 2030

over the next five years. And we want to become a world-class environmental regulator that ensures the protection of the environment, the safety of human health, as well as ensuring a low-carbon development pathway. And there are several goals that we want to do. It's investing in our people, investing in science and technology, investing in strengthening permits, our authorisation process, taking EPA to the ground, to people, to deal with issues. Because it's not just oil and gas. It's small issues in communities, and we want to engage communities,” he posited.

In this regard, Parsram noted with the aim of making the EPA a world class regulator, funds are being deployed to leverage technology as well as upskill its talent pool.

According to Parasram, the government investment of $100 million in the 2022-2023 budget has contributed significantly towards this initiative as such he highlighted that in the past year some $50 million has been invested to ensure the EPA is equipped with skilled workers to effectively carry out its duties.

“And so we have invested in the past year roughly about $40$50 million in previous years. This year, we have $40 million for specific training related to oil spill response, for rig inspections, or FPS inspections. So we're investing that money, and of course, that’s from central government, to ensure that we can have the adequate cadre of skilled and appropriate staff to execute our functions,” he stated.

Water quality sensor

Additionally, he noted that the EPA has deployed its third remote water quality sensor, these sensors are currently operating in the areas of Demerara, Bartica and Saxacalli. These sensors measure the water quality or measure pollutants in water and provides real time data on parameters such as water turbidity, temperature and pH. Additionally, he said that there are sensors on Guyana’s three FPSOs—Liza Destiny, Liza Unity, and Prosperity.

As part of the operator’s responsibility, he said, ExxonMobil and its partners must measure, for example, the concentration of oil in produced water that is being discharged.

Parsram said too that ExxonMobil is required to treat the water in alignment with World Bank standards before it is discharged. These standards, he said, outline that there can only be 49 milligrams per day or an average of 29 milligrams of oil per litre per month.

“So, they have these sensors that measure and provide us with

that feed. We have a live platform at the EPA where we can see, by the minute, the concentration of oil in produced water,” He noted that these sensors also allow the regulator to monitor how much gas is flared too. “As you know, Guyana prohibits routine flaring…if there is an upset condition and you are testing out a new equipment, you are allowed to flare within a certain limit and if you go beyond, then a flaring fee of US$50 per tonne of every carbon emitted is charged,” he said.

The agency has also invested in satellite technology and is currently equipped with NASA worldview. This allows the agency to see flare or heat sensors globally, however it is primarily use to detect flaring at offshore FPSOs. This technology allows the EPA to see when these vessels are flaring and they also report amount of gas flared. Similarly, the agency has been

equipped with Maxar Technologies which is a global powerhouse in satellite imagery. This gives the EPA the power to task satellites in cases such as oil spills to pass over the affected area and provide a bird’s-eye view of the parameters. This allows the EPA to then assess and determine using their formula the volume spilled and the trajectory.

EPA’s Executive Director, Kemraj Parsram

Scenes

from the ICC Men's T20 Cricket World Cup opening game in Guyana

(Office of the President photos)

33 female inmates complete sexual offences, substance abuse training

In a significant step towards their reintegration into society, 33 female inmates at the Timehri Prison have successfully completed training in sexual offences and substance abuse programmes.

During the graduation ceremony, Officerin-Charge Michelle Boyce, emphasised that rehabilitation is a central goal of the cor -

rectional system. She highlighted that the Guyana Prison Service established the rehabilitation programme to facilitate a smooth transition for inmates back into society.

Officer in Charge of Welfare and Corrections, Tessa McGarrell, underscored the impact of prison rehabilitation programmes. She noted that these initiatives

promote prisoners' physical and mental health, as well as their psychological, social, vocational, and economic potential.

McGarrell stated that the service not only identifies the root causes of inmates' anti-social behaviours but also ensures their path to reformation by fostering their potential for positive social functioning.

The Guyana Prison Service said it remains committed to its primary responsibility: rehabilitation. By changing the mindset of inmates and equipping them with marketable skills, the prison service aims to reduce the recidivism rate, fostering a safer and more productive society.

In this year’s budget, the government has allocated $140.2 million for the rehabilitative training of 1,600

inmates to aid their reintegration into society. This funding will also support training for prison officers.

Last year, $111.9 million was spent on training 1,520 inmates and 348 officers in various skills such as agriculture, block making, carpentry, culinary arts, IT, and prison management.

Additionally, in June last year, 309 prison officers completed training in efficien -

cy-promoting courses, and 172 inmates from New Amsterdam and Mazaruni Prisons received training in trades like electrical insulation, welding, and plumbing.

These efforts are part of the government's commitment to prison reform, ensuring inmates can acquire income-generating skills and improve their education during incarceration. (G9)

Man jailed for causing death by dangerous driving

A25-year-old man was jailed for 55-months for causing death by dangerous driving.

Muneshwar Balram of Success Street, Railway Embankment, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was jailed on Friday when he appeared at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court.

The charge was read by Magistrate Abigail Gibbs to which Balram pled guilty.

Jailed: Muneshwar Balram

According to reports, the accident occurred on March 26 at about 01:30h on the La Bonne Intention, Railway Embankment Road, ECD and claimed the life of 20-year-old Venus Althea Williams, of Section 'C', Sophia, Greater Georgetown

At the time of the accident, Williams was the pillion rider on motorcycle, CN 894, which was ridden by Frank Yorrick. (G9)

The women who graduated from the programme

2020 election fraud cases

“Strong” signal must be sent to public officials – VP …welcomes

Vice President Dr Bharrat

CJ’s ruling paving way for trial to proceed

Jagdeo has welcomed the ruling made by Chief Justice (acting) Roxane George that the constitutional rights of former senior officials of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) would not be violated, regarding certain criminal proceedings pending against them in the Magistrates’ Court.

The CJ ruling clears the way for the trial of criminal charges related to the 2020 General and Regional Elections involving former Chief Election Officer Keith Lowenfield and his then Deputy Roxanne Myers among others.

The hearings are now scheduled for July 29-31 and August 5-6 before Magistrate Leron Daly.

Jagdeo during his weekly media conference on Thursday said: “we’re extremely pleased that the elections case or cases would proceed to trial in July.”

The matter will be adjudicated after a three-year delay.

“We want fair trial,” the VP emphasised.

He recalled that “there was an attempt to not only steal the elections but to not recognise the results…we need to send this strong signal to public officials…who would have to be objective [and] non-partisan, particularly in the conduct of the affairs of GECOM.”

In 2021, Lowenfield, Myers and Region Four Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo were slapped with charges in relation to conspiring with Volda Lawrence, Carol Smith-Joseph, and others to defraud the electors of Guyana by declaring a false account of votes for

the March 2, 2020, General and Regional Elections. They are also facing charges relating to misconduct in public and forgery.

The former GECOM officials are accused of inflating or facilitating the inflation of results for Region Four, the country’s largest voting district, to falsely give the APNU+AFC coalition a majority win. Reports are that the prosecution has already handed over certified copies of Statements of Poll (SoPs) and Statements of Recount (SoRs), video interviews, and several other documents.

The People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) was ultimately declared winner of the elections, leading to the swearing-in of Dr Irfaan Ali as President of Guyana in August 2020. Constitutional Challenge

Lowenfield and Myers, along with others, are charged with 28 criminal charges of attempting to commit fraud at the 2020 General and Regional Elections.

Their lawyers took an objection in the Magistrates’ Court that Section 140 (2) of the Representation of the People Act breached their constitutional rights. The said Section states that: “No evidence of any deliberations of the Elections Commission or communications between members of the Commission regarding its business shall be admissible in any court.”

Lowenfield and Myers claimed that they needed the deliberations or communications of the GECOM as part of the facilities for the preparation of their

defence in the criminal proceedings.

As a result, they made an application for the criminal cases to be adjourned while they filed the constitutional challenge in the High Court. Amidst public criticisms, the Magistrate adjourned the criminal proceedings to await the decision of the High Court.

In the High Court, Lowenfield and Myers named the Attorney General (AG) and the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the constitutional action. On the 23rd of April, the Honourable Chief Justice ordered written submissions from all the parties, including GECOM, and fixed the matter for ruling on the 24th of May, 2024.

However, on May 24, the Chief Justice delivered her ruling.

In dismissing the case, the Court agreed with the submissions of the AG, the DPP, and GECOM. The Court stated that Lowenfield and Myers were on a fishing expedition and “cast their net too wide.”

The Court found no

evidence that their constitutional rights were likely to be infringed.

The Court also found that the public interest in ensuring that GECOM’s deliber -

ations remain confidential overrides whatever constitutional rights Lowenfield and Myers enjoy. Finally, the Court ruled that there was no ground estab-

lished that shows that Section 140 (2) of the Representation of the People Act breached any provisions of the Constitution.

Some of the individuals facing charges in relation to electoral fraud. Top row: (from left) Volda Lawrence, Keith Lowenfield, Denise Babb-Cummings, and Michelle Miller. Bottom row: (from left) Enrique Livan, Sheffern February, Clairmont Mingo, and Carol Smith-Joseph

Cops trained on importance of support to domestic violence victims

The Human Services and Social Security Ministry, through the Hope and Justice Centre, on Friday held a comprehensive training session with the administrative staff of Regional Police Division 4'C' (East Coast Demerara).

The session aimed to enlighten supervisory ranks about the critical functions, procedures, and roles of the Hope and Justice Centre and Domestic Violence Advocates in supporting

victims and survivors of domestic violence.

The Hope and Justice Centre offers a wide range of services including counselling, legal assistance, social worker support, and management of a 24/7 domestic violence and gender-based violence hotline (914). Additionally, they provide support for child abuse cases, issue protection orders, and create safe spaces for victims.

During the training, police personnel were educated on the importance of these services and encour-

aged to utilise them effectively to support community well-being. Commander of the Division, Khali Pareshram, expressed a strong commitment to future collaborations, emphasising the value of community outreaches and additional training for all ranks within the region.

Key attendees included Assistant Commissioner Pareshram, Senior Superintendent Kingston, Superintendent HalleySmith, and prominent figures from the Hope

This initiative underscores a significant step towards reinforcing the support system for victims of domestic violence, ensuring that law enforcement personnel are wellequipped to handle such sensitive cases with the utmost care and professionalism.

Teacher remanded on narco trafficking charge

A25-year-old teacher was remanded to prison on Friday for possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking when she appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

Pysiffia Boodram, a mother of two of Public Road, Ruimveldt, faced Senior Magistrate Leron Daly to answer to the charge of Possession of Narcotics for the purpose of trafficking, contrary to Section 5 (1) (a) (i) of the Narcotic Drug and Psychotropic Substance (Control) Act Chapter 10:10.

Remanded: Pysiffia Boodram

According to police, ranks went to Boodram’s home, where they informed her that they had received information about narcotics being stored at her residence. As a result, they requested to search the premises. During the search, they discovered a padlocked bedroom on the upper floor. Boodram was ordered to open the room, and upon entering, police found 11 transparent Ziploc bags containing a quantity of leaves, seeds, and stems of cannabis, amounting to 3015 grams. Boodram was informed of the alleged offense, cautioned, and arrested. Despite her attorney's plea, citing her two children aged 6 months and one year, bail was denied. Boodram is scheduled to return to court on June 28. (G9)

and Justice Centre such as Survivors Advocate

Thenga Adams, Osmin Bayley, Quincy Wong, Marlyn Omar, and Legal Assistant Allizen Critchlow (Guyana Police Force).

Scenes from the training session for Police ranks

Dr. Tariq Jagnarine Fam meD , enDocrinology/ DiabeTes

Home remedies and self-care may help with an ingrown toenail. These include soaking the feet and wearing wider shoes. In some cases, surgery may be necessary. An ingrown toenail occurs when the edges or corners of the nail grow into the skin next to the nail and break the skin. It can be painful and can lead to an infection.

An ingrown toenail is a common condition, but it can cause swelling, redness, and sometimes infection. It usually affects the big toe on either one or both sides. People can usually treat ingrown toenails at home. However, if the pain is severe or spreading, it may be necessary to see a healthcare professional in order to relieve symptoms and prevent further complications. If a person has a badly ingrown toenail, they may need to see a foot specialist (podiatrist) for treatment.

Causes

Here are some of the causes of ingrown toenails:

• Footwear: Shoes and socks that crowd the toes and are too tight increase the chance of an ingrown toenail.

• Cutting the toenails too short: Not cutting straight across, or cutting the edges of the

HEALTH TIPS

MANAGING INGROWN TOENAILS

toenail can encourage the surrounding skin to fold over the nail. The nail can then be pushed into that skin and pierce it.

• Toenail injury: Dropping something on the toe, kicking something hard, and other accidents can lead to ingrown toenails.

• An unusual curvature: This increases the risk that the toenail will grow into soft tissue, causing inflammation and possible infection.

• Posture: How a person walks or stands can affect the likelihood of developing ingrown toenails.

• Poor foot hygiene or excessive sweating: If the skin on the toes and feet is moist and warm, there is a higher chance of developing an ingrown toenail. A fungal infection can increase the risk.

• Heredity: Ingrown toenails can run in families.

• Genetic factors: Some people are born with larger toenails.

Symptoms

The symptoms of an ingrown toenail include:

• Pain in response to pressure.

• Avoid repeatedly cutting the toenail, as this can make the problem worse.

• Wear footwear that leaves the toes plenty of room for movement.

Prevention

To prevent ingrown toenails from developing:

• Tender, swollen, or hard skin next to the nail.

• Inflamed skin at the top of the toe

• Bleeding from the ingrown toenail

• White or yellow pus in the affected area

• Fluid buildup in

the affected area

Treatment

A person should treat ingrown toenails as soon as symptoms appear, especially if they have diabetes, nerve damage in the foot or leg, or poor circulation in the foot. Otherwise, complications can occur, such as infections. The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons advises consulting a healthcare professional rather than using over-the-counter (OTC) medications.

OTCs may mask the pain, but they do not resolve the underlying problem.

A person should consult a doctor if they have:

• Diabetes

• Peripheral vascular disease (varicose veins and darkening of foot)

• Circulatory problem

• Symptoms do not go away.

• Infection develops.

When the nail pierces the skin, bacteria can enter the wound. This can result in infection and cause the following symptoms to occur in the affected areas: redness, swelling, warmth, bleeding, and pus.

Anyone with symptoms of infection should seek medical help, either with a primary care physician, orthopedic surgeon, or podiatrist.

• Removal

If the problem remains, the doctor or podiatrist may recommend removing part or all the nails through surgery. During this type of surgery, a person can expect to:

• Receive a local anesthetic.

• Have one or both edges of the nail removed.

• Have the root of the nail destroyed using

a chemical called phenol.

Once part of the nail begins to grow back, the podiatrist may place a piece of cotton wool under the nail. This will stop it from digging into the skin. It is important to change the cotton wool every day. Keeping the same cotton wool increases the risk of infection, as the nail provides a place for harmful bacteria to grow. If the area is infected, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics.

The healing time for this procedure is 4–6 weeks.

• Total nail avulsion

If the ingrown toenail keeps returning, a podiatrist may remove the cells in the nail bed so that the toenail cannot grow again.

Home

remedies

Often, a healthcare professional will advise someone to treat the nail themselves. If a person suspects they may have an ingrown toenail, it is important to keep the area clean and dry in order to prevent infection.

• Soak the foot in warm water 3–4 times a day, while using a cotton bud to gently push the skin away from the toenail. A doctor may advise you to add Epsom salts to the warm water.

• Cut the nails correctly: People should cut straight across the nail, not rounded at the corners, and not too short. It is easier to cut the nails after a bath or shower.

• See a podiatrist regularly: A person can visit a podiatrist for professional trimming, especially if they have circulatory problems in the feet or cannot cut their own nails. People with diabetes or peripheral vascular disease need to be particularly careful.

• Maintain hygiene and dryness: An ingrown toenail is less likely if the feet are clean and dry.

• Choose footwear that fits properly: Shoes must be the right length and width. Tight shoes cause pressure, but if shoes are too loose, the toes may hit against the tip of the shoe. This also adds pressure, and could cause an ingrown toenail.

An ingrown toenail is a common condition that can cause pain and swelling. People can usually prevent them by maintaining hygiene and dryness on the feet. Healthcare professionals recommend following certain self-care practices: such as cutting nails correctly, and wearing shoes that fit well. However, if the pain is severe, or a person has a badly ingrown toenail, they may need surgery to remove part or all of the nail to prevent further complications.

Regional Mexicans vote in election likely to see 1st woman President

Mexicans are voting in an election which is almost certain to see the country's first female President elected.

Both the front runner, Claudia Sheinbaum, and her main rival, Xóchitl Gálvez, are far ahead in the polls of the only male candidate, Jorge Álvarez Máynez.

Voters will also elect all members of Mexico's Congress and governors in eight states, as well as the head of Mexico City's Government.

The campaign has been overshadowed by violent attacks, which the Government says have resulted in more than 20 local candidates being killed across Mexico, although private surveys put the total at 37.

Two persons were reported killed in two attacks on polling stations in the state of Puebla on Sunday, officials said.

Sheinbaum, a 61-year-old scientist who served as Mayor of Mexico City from 2018 to 2023, has the backing of the outgoing President, Andrés Manuel López Obrador.

cies, such as more than doubling the minimum wage.

But economists have pointed out that there are also other factors at play, such as a rise in remittances being sent by Mexicans living abroad to their friends and family at home.

Taking on Sheinbaum at the polls is Senator and businesswoman Xóchitl Gálvez.

desire to put an end to the rule of the Morena party.

She and the Strength and Heart for Mexico coalition she is running for have been critical of the rise in violence the country has experienced in the run-up to the election.

López Obrador, who has been in power since 2018, cannot run for the top office again, as under Mexico's Constitution, presidents are limited to a single six-year-term.

The popular leader – recent polls suggested he had an approval rate of close to 60 per cent – has instead thrown his weight behind Sheinbaum, who is part of his Morena party.

While many of the promises President López Obrador made upon taking office have remained unfulfilled, his efforts to reduce poverty and help elderly Mexicans have been popular with beneficiaries of these social programmes.

Having the backing of the President may have considerably widened Sheinbaum's base of voters, but it has also raised questions about how independent she is of the sometimes overpowering leader.

Sheinbaum has stressed that she is very much her own woman, while at the same time promising to continue building on what she says are López Obrador's many achievements.

Their party, Morena, boasts about how millions of Mexicans have been lifted out of poverty during the past six years.

Morena says the number of people living in poverty is dwindling thanks to its poli-

Funding for project on Barbados' oldest sheet music

AGálvez, 61, was chosen by a broad coalition of parties who share a

Speaking at her closing rally, she told Mexicans that if they voted for her they would have "the bravest President, a President who does confront

crime".

And while she has repeatedly derided the strategy López Obrador laid out at the start of his presidency, when he promised "hugs not bullets" in the battle against crime, Gálvez has provided little detail as to how she would combat the powerful criminal groups which are behind much of the violence which is blighting the country.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

El Salvador's Bukele starts 2nd term, promises "medicine" to cure economy

El Salvador's President, Nayib Bukele took office on Saturday for a second term pledging to cure the "illnesses" of the Central American country by prescribing his medicine to fix the economy, following his successful treatment to cure the "cancer of the gangs" during his first five years in office.

project based in Gloucester has been awarded Arts Council England funding for its work exploring slavery, using a rare manuscript from the Caribbean. The manuscript includes the world’s oldest-surviving sheet music from Barbados, capturing voices of enslaved people working in the sugar plantations. It was placed in Gloucestershire Archives in the 1970s, and listed in the UNESCO Memory of the World register in 2017. It is part of the Beating Back The Past project, which will also feature an installation of textiles, photographs and music.

uscript a few years ago when mentoring a group of young people.

He met up with Shafique to plan for the upcoming exhibition.

The 42-year-old former nightclub manager was re-elected in a landslide victory with more than 80 per cent of the vote in February, following a court decision that paved the way for his re-election even though the country's Constitution prohibits it.

Rider Shafique, a Gloucestershire musician of Barbadian descent, and Vanley Burke – commonly known as the godfather of black British photography –will head up the project, which will explore the transatlantic slave trade from their point of view. Burke told the BBC he was shown the man-

"This trauma resonates through the community –- and it's a very big topic," he said.

Burke added he wants people to see "glimpses" of slavery through their work, and said the manuscript is "one of many important materials held in archives".

"It's hidden in plain sight," he added. (Excerpt from BBC News)

"Salvadorean society is still sick, but it no longer has cancer," Bukele told the crowd from the balcony of the National Palace in the capital San Salvador. The cancer referred to criminal gangs that once made the country one of the world's deadliest to live in, but have been brought under control through mass arrests during his leadership.

"Now that we have

fixed the most urgent thing, which was security, we are going to focus on the important problems, starting with the economy," said the President who faces fresh challenges to rejuvenate a stagnant economy and tackle poverty. Bukele added that his "prescription is working."

Saturday's swearing-in ceremony took place amid security concerns after Police said they had thwarted a bomb threat.

Seven persons were arrested for plotting to detonate explosives at locations across the country, Police said on Thursday, adding that the suspects were part of the so-

called Salvadoran Insurrection Brigade. Among the attendees at the ceremony was Argentina's libertarian President Javier Milei and Donald Trump Jr, the son of former US President Donald Trump, who arrived in El Salvador on Friday. His father earlier this week became the first former US President to be convicted of a felony. Bukele, who is of Palestinian descent, won re-election in February after garnering massive popularity in his first term for transforming security in the country of 6.3 million people that was once one of the world's most dangerous. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Claudia Sheinbaum (left) and her rival Xóchitl Gálvez are battling it out to become Mexico's first female President [Reuters]

San Salvador, June 1, 2024 (Reuters/Carlos Barrera photo)

OIL NEWS

Around the World

OPEC+ extends deep oil production cuts into 2025

The Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies led by Russia, together known as OPEC+, agreed on Sunday to extend most of its deep oil output cuts well into 2025 as the group seeks to shore up the market amid tepid demand growth, high interest rates and rising rival US production.

Brent crude oil prices have been trading near US$80 per barrel in recent days, below what many OPEC+ members need to balance their budgets. Worries over slow demand growth in top oil importer China have weighed on prices alongside rising oil stocks in developed economies.

OPEC+ has made a series of deep output cuts since late 2022.

OPEC+ members are currently cutting output by a total of 5.86 million barrels per day (bpd), or about 5.7 per cent of global demand.

Those include 3.66 million bpd of cuts, which were due to expire at the end of 2024, and voluntary cuts by eight members of 2.2 million bpd, expiring at the end of June 2024.

On Sunday, OPEC+ agreed to extend the cuts of 3.66 million bpd by a year until the end of 2025 and prolong the cuts of 2.2 million bpd by three months until the end of September 2024.

OPEC+ will gradually phase out the cuts of 2.2 million bpd over the course of a year from October 2024 to September 2025.

"We are waiting for interest rates to come down and a better trajectory when it comes to economic growth ... not pockets of growth here and there," Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman told reporters.

OPEC expects demand for OPEC+ crude to average 43.65 million bpd in the second half of 2024, implying a stocks drawdown of 2.63 million bpd if the group maintains output at April's rate of 41.02 million bpd.

The drawdown will be less when OPEC+ starts phasing out the 2.2 million bpd voluntary cuts in October.

The International Energy Agency, which represents top global consumers, estimates that demand for OPEC+ oil plus stocks will average much lower levels of 41.9 million bpd in 2024.

"The deal should allay market fears of OPEC+ adding back barrels at a time when demand concerns are still rife," said Amrita Sen, co-founder of Energy Aspects think tank.

Prince Abdulaziz said OPEC+ could pause the unwinding of cuts or reverse them if demand wasn't strong enough.

Quick deal

Analysts had expected OPEC+ to prolong voluntary cuts by a few months due to falling oil prices and sluggish demand.

But many analysts had also predicted the group would struggle to set targets for 2025 as it had yet to agree individual capacity targets for each member, an issue that had previously created tensions.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE), for instance, has been pushing for a higher production quota, arguing its capacity figure had been long under-estimated.

But in a surprise development on Sunday, OPEC+ postponed the discussions on capacities until November 2025 from this year.

Instead, the group agreed a new output target for the UAE, which will be allowed to gradually raise production by 0.3 million bpd, up from the current level of 2.9 million.

OPEC+ agreed that it would use independently-assessed capacity figures as guidance for 2026 production instead of 2025 – postponing a potentially difficult discussion by one year.

Prince Abdulaziz said one of the reasons for the delay was difficulties for independent consultants to assess Russian data amid Western sanctions on Moscow for its war on Ukraine.

The meetings on Sunday lasted less than four hours – relatively short for such a complex deal.

OPEC+ sources said Prince Abdulaziz, the most influential Minister in the OPEC group, had spent days preparing the deal behind the scenes.

He invited some key ministers – mostly those who contributed to the voluntary cuts – to come to the Saudi capital Riyadh on Sunday despite meetings being largely scheduled online.

The countries which have made voluntary cuts to output are Algeria, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Oman, Russia, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

"It should be seen as a huge victory of solidarity for the group and Prince Abdulaziz," said Sen, adding the deal would ease fears of Saudi Arabia adding barrels back due to Aramco's share listing.

Saudi Arabia's Government has filed papers to sell a new stake in state oil giant Aramco that could raise as much as US$13.1 billion, a landmark deal to help fund Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's plan to diversify the economy. OPEC+ will hold its next meeting on December 1, 2024. (Reuters)

Biden's Gaza plan “not a good deal”, but Israel accepts it, Netanyahu aide says

An aide to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed on Sunday that Israel had accepted a framework deal for winding down the Gaza war now being advanced by US President Joe Biden, though he described it as flawed and in need of much more work.

In an interview with Britain's Sunday Times, Ophir Falk, chief foreign policy advisor to Netanyahu, said Biden's proposal was "a deal we agreed to — it's not a good deal but we dearly want the hostages released, all of them".

"There are a lot of details to be worked out," he said, adding that Israeli conditions, including "the release of the hostages and the destruction of Hamas as a genocidal terrorist organisation" have not changed.

Biden, whose initial lockstep support for Israel's offensive has given way to open censure of the operation's high civilian death toll, on Friday aired what he described as a three-phase plan submitted by the Netanyahu Government to end the war.

The first phase entails a truce and the return of some hostages held by Hamas, after which the sides would negotiate on an open-ended cessation of hostil-

ities for a second phase in which remaining live captives would go free, Biden said.

That sequencing appears to imply that Hamas would continue to play a role in incremental arrangements mediated by Egypt and Qatar – a potential clash with Israel's determination to resume the campaign to eliminate the Iranian-backed Islamist group.

Biden has hailed several ceasefire proposals over the past several months, each with similar frameworks to the one he outlined on Friday, all of which collapsed.

Netanyahu is under pressure to keep his coalition government intact. Two far-right part-

ners have threatened to bolt in protest at any deal they deem to spare Hamas. A centrist partner, ex-general Benny Gantz, wants the deal considered.

Hamas has provisionally welcomed the Biden initiative, though a senior official from the group, Sami Abu Zuhri, said on Sunday that "Hamas is too big to be bypassed or sidelined by Netanyahu or Biden".

Meanwhile, a number of people were killed in an Israeli air attack targeting sites in the vicinity of Syria's Aleppo, Syrian State media said today citing a military source.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Zelenskiy dominates Asia security conference as China, Taiwan trade barbs

Ukrainian President

Volodymyr Zelenskiy's unscheduled appearance at Asia's biggest security conference dominated proceedings on Sunday after China's defence chief slammed "separatists" in Taiwan, drawing a sharp response from the Government in Taipei.

Dressed in his trademark olive green T-shirt, Zelenskiy addressed the last day of the Shangri-La Dialogue forum in Singapore, asking for support and participation at a summit in Switzerland later this month aimed at bringing peace to his war-ravaged nation.

"We are convinced that our world wants to be united and be capable of acting in complete harmony," he said to a ballroom packed full of delegates in formal business wear and military uniforms.

Reuters was first to report that Zelenskiy would make an unscripted appearance at the conference, his second visit to Asia since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Zelenskiy told a news conference that he was not able to meet the Chinese delegation at the conference and was disappointed that Beijing would not attend the summit.

Earlier, China's defence chief, Dong Jun, warned that prospects of a peaceful "reunification" of Taiwan were being eroded, and promised to ensure the island would never gain independence. China views democratically-governed Taiwan as its own

territory, over the strong objections of the Government in Taipei, and last month staged war games around the island in anger at the inauguration of President Lai Ching-te, who Beijing calls a "separatist".

"Those separatists recently made fanatical statements that show their betrayal of the Chinese nation and their ancestors. They will be nailed to the pillar of shame in history," Dong said. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Gaza Strip, June 2, 2024 (Reuters/Amir Cohen photo)

Singapore, June 2, 2024 (Ukrainian Presidential Press Service/Handout via Reuters)

DAILY HOROSCOPES

Haste makes waste. It’s OK to envision what’s next, but finish what you start before heading in a new direction. Changing how you handle your cash will be fruitful.

Emotions will surface, leading to personal or professional instability. Think twice before you act. Focus on laying down ground rules, putting a strategy in place and following through.

Think big and see what happens. Channel your energy into whatever makes the most sense and strive to do your best. You have everything to gain by giving your all and helping others.

Put stubbornness aside and do what’s necessary to reach your goal. Refuse to let uncertainty stand in your way. Changing how you approach others and the difficulties you face will pay off.

A positive attitude will help you get whatever you pursue. Think as you go and turn negatives into positives. Let your high-spirited attitude lead the way, and you will captivate your audience.

Keep an open mind despite all that’s coming your way. A change may be necessary, but if you are thorough and heartfelt, you’ll gain approval to move forward with your plans.

How you approach the changes you want to make will determine how much time you require to prepare. Streamline your routine. Put your energy where it counts.

You’ll find it easier to address emotional matters. Help those who require assistance. Your insight and ability to contribute hands-on help will put you in a good position.

Pull back if someone tries to exploit you. A physical challenge will test your strength and judgment and confirm that you still have what it takes to win. Think big and you’ll achieve your goal.

Consider suggestions or ideas to improve your home environment. The changes you make will provide stability and help you deal with any controversy you encounter.

Refuse to let your emotions take the reins. Muster up the confidence to become a leader who can make a difference. Your methods will be crucial, so consider them carefully.

Take the time to think before you act. The insight you gain will help you come up with a solid plan. Working quietly on your own will buy you time. Avoid sharing personal information.

PEANUTS

CALVIN AND HOBBES

PICKLES

Jones, Gous' spectacular show hands USA opening win

USA announced their arrival in the T20 World Cup with a demolition of their rivals Canada in Dallas.

Aaron Jones, the Vice Captain, and Andries Gous, the former South African player and current Texas resident, made a mockery of their chase of 195 with a 131run third-wicket partnership at a whirlwind run rate of 14.29. USA got the job done with seven wickets and 14 balls to spare.

Jones went on a six-hitting spree – he cleared the boundary 10 times --- and celebrated most of those with animated fist-pumps, which

really and truly trying to do. We don't want to regret anything. We want to leave everything out there on the park."

Jones embodied that

had the crowd chanting: "USA! USA! USA!"

Though Gous holed out for 65 off 46, Jones fittingly finished the chase with a pair of sixes, off offspinner Nikhil Dutta, and handed USA their fifth successive win over Canada, having beaten them 4-0 in the lead-up to their first-ever World Cup appearance.

The Jones-Gous show

On the eve of the T20 World Cup opener, Jones was asked to describe USA's style of cricket. Here's what he had to say: "To be honest I'll say fearless cricket, positive cricket, smart cricket. I think that's what we're

style by clattering an unbeaten 94 off 40 balls with 10 sixes. Only Chris Gayle has hit more sixes in an innings in the men's T20 World Cup. When Jones came into bat, USA were 42 for 2 in the seventh over, having lost openers Steven Taylor (0) and Monank Patel (16 off 16). Canada's seamers got the ball to nip around under lights, but Jones got stuck into the spinners, hitting fingerspinners Saad Bin Zafar and Dutta for 61 off a mere 22 balls. He slog-swept, reverse-swept, and even advanced down the pitch to dominate the spinners.

Jones showed he

could cut it against pace too when he launched Dilon Heyliger for a 103-metre six. Gous, becalmed in the early exchanges, caught fire too when he lined up Jeremy Gordon for 6, 4, 6, 4 in the 14th over, which cost Canada 33 runs.

Gous' experience complemented Jones' big hitting. Gous was Washington Freedom's number one pick in the inaugural Major League Cricket (MLC) draft and even trained in New South Wales (NSW) under Burt Cockley, the

World Cup.

Canada throw the first punch After having been asked to bat first, Canada threw the first punch. Aaron Johnson set the tone for the innings with a first-ball four off Ali Khan and though the fast bowler pinged him

slammed a fifty of his own.

There's a bit of Nicholas Pooran about Kirton, especially when he lofts the ball over extra-cover with a bent knee. Kirton got into his groove with sixes off full-tosses from Taylor and Shadley van

on his helmet in his next over, he continued to attack.

Harmeet Singh, who had played two Under-19 World Cups for India and represented Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League (IPL), however, slowed Canada down when he had

former NSW seamer and Freedom's current strength and conditioning Coach. He has also had some T20 exposure in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), having had stints in the T10 and ILT20 leagues. He put all of that to good use in the opening match of the T20

Johnson toe-ending a catch to mid-off for 23 off 16 balls. Johnson's opening partner, Navneet Dhaliwal, though pushed on to score a half-century, the first for Canada in a T20 World Cup. He added a 62-run stand for the third wicket with Nicholas Kirton, who

Schalkwyk. He was also the only Canada batter to have confidently dealt with Corey Anderson. Though Dhaliwal and Kirton fell in the space of three overs, wicketkeeper-batter Shreyas Movva gave the innings the finishing kick with an unbeaten 32 off 16 balls.

Canada (20 ovs maximum)

Aaron Johnson c Kumar

b Harmeet Singh 23

Navneet Dhaliwal c Jasdeep Singh

b Anderson 61

Pargat Singh run out

(Jasdeep Singh/†Patel) 5

Nicholas Kirton c Anderson

b Ali Khan 51

Shreyas Movva † not out 32

Dilpreet Bajwa run out

(Taylor/†Patel) 11

Dilon Heyliger not out 1

Extras (lb 8, w 2) 10

TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 9.70) 194/5

Did not bat: Saad Bin Zafar (c), Nikhil Dutta, Kaleem Sana, Jeremy Gordon

Fall of wickets: 1-43 (Aaron Johnson, 5.2 ov), 2-66 (Pargat Singh, 7.6 ov), 3-128 (Navneet Dhaliwal, 14.1 ov), 4-159 (Nicholas Kirton, 17.5 ov), 5-173 (Dilpreet Bajwa, 18.6 ov)

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Ali Khan 4-0-41-1

Saurabh Netravalkar 2-0-16-0

Harmeet Singh 4-0-27-1

Jasdeep Singh 3-0-24-0 Shadley van Schalkwyk 3-0-34-0

Anderson takes pace off Anderson, the former New Zealand all-rounder, became the fifth player to represent two different teams at the T20 World Cup after Roelof van der Merwe (South Africa and Netherlands); Dirk Nannes (Netherlands and Australia); David Wiese (South Africa and Namibia) and Mark Chapman (Hong Kong and New Zealand). He marked the occasion with a clever spell full of cutters into the Dallas pitch.

He was introduced into the attack in the 15th over and struck with his very first ball to dismiss Dhaliwal. He went onto bowl the 17th and 19th overs to come away with 3-0-29-1. Fourteen of his 18 balls were slower, according to ESPNcricinfo's logs, and those variations helped USA restrict Canada to a sub-200 total.

Anderson later shared the winning moment with Jones and the Dallas crowd. (ESPNcricinfo)

Aaron Jones' magnificent 94* took USA over the line

Navneet Dhaliwal hit the first fifty of the T20 World Cup 2024

Kaleem Sana struck in the first over for Canada

Andries Gous goes big

“Universe Boss the mentor”

Gayle open to new roles in cricket

Two-time T20 World Cup winner, ICC Champions Trophy winner and arguably the best batsman in the shorter format of the game, the “Universe Boss”, Chris Gayle has done it all. Now, the Jamaica superstar has made it clear that he is open to taking up new roles in the game he loves so much.

Currently, Gayle is one of several renowned ambassadors for the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 and is relishing the role, even though it means missing out on the on-field action.

“I would love to be out there, to be honest with you, but you know time flies by and you know I've got to be at the other side this time around. So, I'm just playing a supporting role, you know, rally around the West Indies as most of our fans are do-

ing as we speak. But it's good to be back amongst the guys, good to see them as well,” Gayle told media operatives at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) on Sunday.

Speaking during the intermission of West Indies’ five-wicket victory over Papua New Guinea (PNG), Gayle went on to

address adjusting to his new role in the sport.

The “Universe Boss” explained, “Like I say, you know, played cricket for two decades now and it's good to play a different role. You know, being an ambassador, you always want to give back to the sport as well. So, it's actually good to be here, you know; see a few fans. Whenever I walk around,

PMTC Caricom horse race set for July 14

The Port Mourant Turf Club (PMTC) Caricom horse race meet has been shifted to Sunday, July 14.

According to the provisional programme, eight races are on the cards and close to $10 million in cash and prizes will be up for the taking at the Port Mourant Turf Club.

The feature race will be open to all horses running at an approximate distance of 1350 metres, where the top horse will bag $1,500,000.

The three-year-old Guyana and West Indies bred horses will run at 1350 metres, and the top horse will be rewarded $500,000.

Horses in the H & Lower will run at 1500 metres, and the top horse will be awarded $400,000. Other races on the cards include the E Class Non-earner last start & F and Lower, the twoyear-old Guyana bred, the J & Lower, the L Open, and the J/K/L Maiden. All races will run under the guidance of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority rules, and races are subjected to change. Horse owners would need to show proof of vaccination of horses at time of entry. Entries for the July 14 Caricom race meet will close on July 8. The organisers are asking for horses to properly be entered through

they say ‘hey, Chris I want to see you out there still , but that's the life you know. To play a new role of being an ambassador.”

Quizzed about whether or not the change in caps would motivate him to taking up coaching roles, Gayle revealed that he was more inclined to mentoring current and up-and-coming players.

“Once I have the time and once time permits, I would love to play my part within the cricket fraternity. But more so, I think I’ll be a good mentor, be-

cause when I, whenever I speak people tend to listen to me and I have a lot of knowledge, you know, [players] can actually feed off or share with the youngsters. It doesn't matter who, I can share those moments and [I] know how to build a particular player as well. So yeah, I love to be a mentor, whatever team,” theformer explosive batsman responded.

(Jemima Holmes)

way of entry forms.

Contact for entries are Dennis on 640-6396, Fazal on 611-1141, Buju on 6587637, Shazeena/Rose/ Vanessa on 322-0789, and Ginjo on 618-7278. For additional information or queries, contact should be made via Ginjo on 618-7278. A Vet Certificate (verify date of entry) would need to be presented for all two-year-old horses.

The Port Mourant Turf Club Caricom meet will serve as the final competitive preparation for the August 11 Guyana Cup meet, which is organised by the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee.

In spite of whatever role he chooses to take up next, one constant for the “Universe Boss” will be his support for the regional side. Gayle divulged, “Of course, I love cricket and will always be a West Indies true supporter. It doesn't matter what position the team is in and I will always be there with them, I will lose with them, I will always win with them as well.”

Celtics star Tatum aims for NBA Finals redemption

Jayson Tatum views the upcoming NBA Finals as a chance at redemption for the Boston Celtics after falling short two years ago.

The Celtics swept the Indiana Pacers to reach the showpiece seven-game series, where they face the Dallas Mavericks.

With Game 1 of the much-anticipated series coming on Friday, Tatum looked back at the 2022 Finals defeat to the Golden State Warriors, using the disappointment as motivation this time around.

"It's a lot that myself, and we, can learn from that experience being in the Finals, and this time, this go-around is a lot different," Tatum said after Saturday's practice.

"Obviously, we've been there before, we came up short. And a great opportunity to make it to the Finals again.

"You don't always get a second chance, so really just looking at it as a second

chance and trying to simplify things as much as we can."

The Celtics were eliminated in the Eastern Conference finals against the Miami Heat last year, losing in seven games.

That has prevented Boston from avenging their Finals defeat to Golden State the year before, though Tatum is keen to make up for lost time.

He will have to do so against former team-mate Kyrie Irving, however.

"Obviously, there were some ups and downs, but I think, for me, being a first-, second-year player, being around a superstar, essentially, every day and seeing how to navigate that space," Tatum said.

"And then obviously on the court, he's one of the most talented guys I've ever seen.

"So it seems like a very long time ago, but I've got a lot of great memories from having [Irving] as a teammate." (Sportsmax)

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The “Universe Boss”, Chris Gayle is open to taking up new roles in the cricketing world

The Port Mourant Turf Club will host the Caricom horse race meet on July 14

Chase seals West Indies' jittery victory against spirited PNG

It was far from the confident start to the tournament that West Indies, co-hosts of the T20 World Cup 2024, would have hoped to make, but in the end they avoided adding to an ignominious list of upsets in a format they once dominated.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) almost took the game to the final over, only for Roston Chase's unbeaten 42 off 27 to prove decisive in salvaging a nervy five-wicket win in Providence, Guyana.

When PNG Captain Assad Vala dismissed Sherfane Rutherford at the end of the 16th over, West Indies were five down and needing 40 from the last 24 deliveries. The sight of Andre Russell walking out at number seven was a reminder of what the Associate nation, playing in only their second T20 World Cup, were up against, however. Russell, an Indian Premier League (IPL) winner with Kolkata Knight Riders a week ago, duly launched his fourth ball into the crowd to make the requirement 31 from 18.

Chase then kicked up through the gears, having anchored the innings while wickets fell around him.

The West Indian number four, preferred in the side to Shimron Hetmyer, took

a six and two fours off Vala in the 18th, before picking off Kabua Morea for backto-back boundaries to bring the victory in sight. It meant that PNG, with former West Indies World Cup-winning Coach Phil Simmons looking on from their bench in his role of consultant, narrowly missed out on a first scalp at this level. Their best prospect had seeming-

Pooran, who contributed 27 to the chase, before he had scored, West Indies' fragility might well have been exposed again.

The review that wasn't

Anyone who has followed West Indies' travails in International Cricket Council (ICC) competitions recently – a dismal T20 World Cup defence in 2021, crashing out of a group fea-

Despite that burst of aggression, Pooran never fully settled and did eventually become the second wicket to fall when he chipped John Kariko to long-on at the start of the ninth. Vala then brought himself on to make it spin from both ends, with King's attempt to break the shackles ending in the hands of deep midwicket. Vala delivered the second wick-

ly been to avoid embarrassment, after they reached the halfway point of their innings on 57 for 4; but Sese Bau's half-century and a fighting lower-order knock from Kiplin Doriga gave them something to bowl at.

Had they chosen to review an appeal against Nicholas

SCOREBOARD

Papua New Guinea (20 ovs maximum)

Tony Ura c †Pooran

b Shepherd 2

Assad Vala (c) c Chase

b Joseph 21

Lega Siaka

b Hosein 1

Sese Bau

b Joseph 50

Hiri Hiri c Powell

b Motie 2

Charles Amini c †Pooran

b Russell 12

Kiplin Doriga † not out 27

Chad Soper

b Russell 10

Alei Nao run out (Joseph) 0

Kabua Morea not out 2

Extras (lb 1, nb 1, w 7) 9

TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 6.80) 136/8

Did not bat: John Kariko

Fall of wickets: 1-5 (Tony Ura, 1.5 ov), 2-7 (Lega Siaka, 2.1 ov), 3-34 (Assad Vala, 5.6 ov), 4-50 (Hiri Hiri, 8.5 ov), 5-94 (Charles Amini, 14.6 ov), 6-98 (Sese Bau, 16.3 ov), 7-122 (Chad Soper, 18.6 ov), 8-130 (Alei Nao, 19.3 ov) •

BOWLING O-M-R-W

3-0-9-1

Akeal Hosein

Romario Shepherd 3-0-23-1

3-0-19-2

Andre Russell

Roston Chase 4-0-26-0

Alzarri Joseph 4-0-34-2

Gudakesh Motie 3-0-24-1

West Indies (T: 137 runs from 20 ovs)

Brandon King c Siaka

b Vala 34

Johnson Charles lbw

b Nao 0

Nicholas Pooran † c Ura

b Kariko 27

Roston Chase not out 42

Rovman Powell (c) c †Doriga

b Soper 15

Sherfane Rutherford c †Doriga

b Vala 2

Andre Russell not out 15

Extras (lb 2) 2

TOTAL 19 Ov (RR: 7.21) 137/5

Did not bat: Romario Shepherd, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Gudakesh Motie Fall of wickets: 1-8 (Johnson Charles, 1.1 ov), 2-61 (Nicholas Pooran, 8.1 ov), 3-63 (Brandon King, 9.5 ov), 4-85 (Rovman Powell, 13.6 ov), 5-97 (Sherfane Rutherford, 15.6 ov) •

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Kabua Morea 3-0-30-0 Alei Nao 2-1-9-1

Chad Soper 3-0-19-1

Sese Bau 1-0-18-0

John Kariko 4-0-17-1

Assad Vala 4-1-28-2

Charles Amini 2-0-14-0

turing Ireland, Scotland and Zimbabwe in 2022, failure to even qualify for last year's 50-over World Cup –would have felt a familiar sense of trepidation creeping over them at the start of this run chase. Alei Nao struck with his first ball on World Cup debut, pinning Johnson Charles for a golden duck; then, as the rain started to fall, he nipped one fatefully back into the pads of Pooran…

PNG opted not to review umpire Rashid Riaz's not-out decision and were immediately made fully aware of their mistake as the players left the field for a 20-minute interruption, ball-tracking showing that it would have hit the top of middle stump with enough certainty to be overturned. On the resumption, Nao completed a wicket maiden, and with Pooran struggling for rhythm it was only thanks to Brandon King finding regular boundaries – his first 28 runs came via seven fours – that West Indies were able to make headway.

Pooran, on 5 from 15 balls, then launched Bau's offspin for 6-4-6 at the start of the sixth over, as West Indies surged to reach the end of the powerplay on 52 for 1, seemingly well placed.

PNG spinners squeeze

between a combination of legs, gloves and body, to leave West Indies 97 for 5 and fighting to stave off a major upset.

West Indies start like they mean it

Everything went right initially for the cohosts, who were starting their campaign to win a third T20 title. Powell won the toss and chose to insert PNG for the morning start in Providence, noting the "inclement weather around and also a fresh wicket". Akeal Hosein opened the bowling and proceeded to concede just a single off the opening over, during which Tony Ura and Vala struggled to lay bat on ball. The scale of the challenge for PNG was clear.

et-maiden of the innings, and West Indian nerves began to jangle again as they edged along to 77 for 3 at the end of the 13th, having scored 25 runs from 42 balls outside of the powerplay.

West Indies duly made inroads, Ura edging behind off Romario Shepherd in the second over before Lega Siaka was undone by his second legitimate delivery, Hosein swinging one back through the gate to hit middle and off. Although Vala found his feet after inching along to 5 off 10, stepping out to loft Chase for an imperious six, then smacking Alzarri Joseph for two fours in three balls, he fell to the

West Indies Captain Rovman Powell struck a much-needed boundary off Chad Soper, but was dismissed in the same over, despite confidently reviewing after being given out caught behind. Chase popped above the parapet to slog-sweep Charles Amini for six – his first boundary coming from his 15th ball – but Vala then had Rutherford caught behind in the following over, Doriga clutching the ball

last ball of the powerplay-Joseph exacting revenge thanks to Chase's brilliant diving catch – to leave PNG up against it at 34 for 3.

Take a Bau

Bau had struck the first boundary of day, driving Russell back down the ground in the fourth over, and he played assertively to steer his side away from disaster and towards a competitive total. A reverse-sweep off Hosein also

found the rope, before he skipped down to loft Chase through long-off. Although Bau lost another partner when Hiri Hiri fell to Gudakesh Motie's fourth ball, caught at slip reverse-sweeping, the subsequent fifth-wicket stand of 44 with Amini was comfortably the biggest of the PNG innings.

After a few overs of consolidation, Bau cut lose against Motie, hitting the spinner down the ground and over wide long-on for four and six from consecutive deliveries, then adding another boundary through the covers to get PNG's run rate above a run a ball. A top-edged four off Joseph took him to the brink of a half-century, although he lost his partner before he could get there as Amini nicked behind cutting at Russell.

Bau duly reached a 42ball fifty at the start of the following over – the second by a PNG batter in T20 World Cups, and the second against a Full Member nation in T20Is – before being defeated by a Joseph slower ball to leave his side 98 for 6 in the 17th over.

Doriga drags PNG up

That PNG managed to add 38 from the last 21 balls of the innings was largely down to Doriga, as well as a sloppy finish from the West Indies attack. Doriga might have been dismissed for 1 off 6 balls, when a Joseph delivery clipped off stump without disturbing the bails, but the PNG wicketkeeper proceeded to combine hard running with the occasionally hearty thwack to finish unbeaten on 27 from 18. Shepherd, Russell and Joseph all leaked runs at the death, with the latter carved for back-to-back fours at the start of the 20th before overstepping with what should have been the final ball. (ESPNcricinfo)

John Kariko is pumped after dismissing Nicholas Pooran

Brandon King hits over the top

Roston Chase scored 42 off 27 balls

Alei Nao appeals for an lbw

Sese Bau scored 50 off 43 balls