GECOM has “absolutely no authority” to remove Dr Asha Kissoon from Parliament
…says
Commission
actively discussing matter
The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has made it clear that it has no authority to remove Dr Asha Kissoon from the National Assembly – a seat that she is occupying beyond the six-month term allotted to her party under the Joinder Agreement.
According to the Joinder List Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Dr Kissoon’s party – The New Movement (TNM) – was entitled to occupy the opposition seat in the National Assembly for 91 days. That timeline ended since November 2023, but Dr Kissoon continues to occupy the parliamentary seat – a move that has sparked criticisms from some quarters including A New and United Party (ANUG), whose turn it is to serve in the National Assembly.
In fact, there have been calls on the Parliament Office and the Elections Commission to intervene and remove Dr Kissoon, who is also serving as Deputy Speaker of the House, from illegally occupying the seat.
GECOM, in a statement on Wednesday, declared
that “…it must be categorically stated that GECOM has absolutely no authority to remove Dr Asha Kissoon from the National Assembly. Article 156 of the Constitution of Guyana stipulates the conditions under which a Member of Parliament can be removed from the National Assembly and there is clearly no role for GECOM in this regard.”
Article 156 (1) states a member of the National Assembly shall vacate his or her seat “… (a) if he or she resigns it by writing under his or her hand addressed to the Speaker or, if the office of the Speaker is vacant or the Speaker is absent from Guyana, to the Deputy Speaker: Provided that, if the President certifies that the member had resigned for the purpose of giving further service to the public, the member, if otherwise qualified, shall be eligible to be re-elected to the Assembly in accordance with any provision made under Article 63; (b) if he or she is absent from the sittings of the Assembly for such period, and in such circumstances, as may be prescribed in the rules of
procedure of the Assembly; (c) if he or she ceases to be a citizen of Guyana; (d) subject to the next following paragraph, if any circumstances arise that, if he or she were not a member of the Assembly, would cause him or her to be disqualified for election as a member thereof by virtue of the preceding article or of any law enacted in pursuance thereof; (e) in the circumstances and to the extent set out in Article 178(4)…”
Despite its position, however, GECOM indicated that the matter is “actively being discussed” at the level of the Commission and that the outcome will be publicised upon conclusion of the discussions.
The Elections Commission reminded stakeholders that it will continue to execute its Constitutional mandate within the framework of the law.
On March 2, 2020, TNM along with ANUG and The Liberty and Justice Party (LJP) had executed an MoU, agreeing to merge the votes earned by them if sufficient to take a seat in Parliament, and to share a rotational occupation of
that seat in Parliament in proportion to the votes earned by each.
At those elections, the number of votes secured by the three joinder parties were: 2657 by LJP – the most votes secured; while ANUG and TNM obtained 2313 and 244 votes, respectively.
Based on the joinder agreement, each party would occupy the shared seat for a specific period. The stipulated duration of the terms by each party are two years, six months, and 20 days for the LJP; while ANUG would serve for two years five months, and TNM for 91 days. The three parties had previously committed to acting as a broker between the Government and the main Opposition.
After the 2020 Elections, LJP leader Lennox Shuman took occupation of the single merger seat which he held for two and one-half years, before honouring his commitment and resigning in March 2023.
Dr Kissoon was then sworn-in as a Member of Parliament in April 2023 and was also elected as Deputy Speaker – a position also held by Shuman.
Based on the MoU signed, the TNM Leader should have resigned from the National Assembly in November, 2023, thus allowing ANUG to commence its parliamentary tenure.
Back in March, ANUG had said Dr Kissoon, on one occasion, indicated via a “verbal and informal promise” to vacate the seat on February 29, 2024 – three months late, but has since breached that commitment by refusing to relinquish the seat.
At a press conference in March, ANUG Executives had called the TNM Leader’s actions undemocratic and a breach of trust.
General Secretary of ANUG, Timothy Jonas, said it was an arrangement
of trust and it has been breached.
Back in January of this year, ANUG had identified its representative to take up the parliamentary seat in the person of Althia King – an active ANUG member since 2019.
The process for replacing an MP involves the National Assembly writing to the head of the party list to whom the seat belongs, once its occupant has submitted a formal resignation. The head of the list is tasked with informing GECOM which party candidate’s name to extract and submit to the National Assembly.
In March, Clerk of the National Assembly, Sherlock Isaacs, had explained to this publication that Parliament did not have the power to remove Dr Kissoon in the wake of these events.
Dr Kissoon has not spoken on the issue, and continues to serve in parliament and as well as the Deputy Speaker. In fact, only as recent as Monday, she attended a sitting of the National Assembly. (G8)
TNM Leader Dr Asha Kissoon
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, July 11 – No retraction and Friday, July 12 –22:00h-23:30h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Thursday, July 11 – 07:1008:40h and Friday, July 12 –07:50h-09:20h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Winds: Easterly to South-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.02 metres.
High Tide: 07:52h and 20:17h reaching maximum heights of 2.43 metres and 2.34 metres.
Low Tide: 13:51h reaching a minimum height of 0.81 metre.
Inaugural Criminal Justice Reform Conference
Regional leaders urged to tackle crime, de-risk hot spots
As the historic Legal Conference on Criminal Justice Reform got underway in Guyana on Wednesday, President Dr. Irfaan Ali impressed on the legal luminaries, including those from around the region, that criminal justice reform and derisking so-called high-risk areas would involve the region’s brightest minds from across sectors coming together to find solutions.
From July 10 to 11, Guyana is hosting the first ever Legal Conference on Criminal Justice Reform, which is tasked with advancing the Needham Point declaration. The Needham Point declaration was adopted in October, 2023 in Barbados with the aim of countries making policy interventions to improve the wheels of justice.
President Ali, who delivered the feature address during the opening ceremony at the Marriott Hotel, noted the timeliness of the conference. At the same time, he urged the need for a comprehensive discussion that would include all facets of the ecosystem, from educational to social and cultural.
“Unless the system supports this realignment, then we will not be dealing with the Criminal Justice System in totality. We can go and adopt all the legislation the IDB wants to recommend to us; we can bring all the best practices; but if we do not fix the ecosystem -- that is not only an issue for the judiciary and the dispensation of justice, but is a problem for all of us: for the churches, the Parliament -- then I believe that we will continue to plaster the problem and not address the foundation. Cracks would appear at different times and different forms,” President Ali said.
The Head of State noted that while agencies and foreign governments would put out warnings to tourists about ‘at-risk’ areas that are prone to crime, not enough conversations are had on how to derisk these areas.
“If we determine an area to be a high-risk area, then how do we derisk the area? Where is the conversation on derisking the area? And this is an important part of the ecosystem that surrounds criminality. How do we apply our minds to the creation of policies that derisk highrisk areas? And what are the policies of that derisking?” he asked.
“And then we’ll see it takes us to a traceability study on levels of education, drop-out rate, access to education, quality of teachers,” he added.
“If there is a particular area that is prone to a particular crime, then the education system must put teachers in that area who are
trained and equipped with a special skillset to deal with that particular issue, so we can change that thinking in the system. That’s how deep we have to go,” the Head of State said.
On a regional level, President Ali further warned that the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl in the region can exacerbate economic conditions that fuel crime. He also cited worrying statistics on crime in the region, where as much as 90 per cent of homicide victims are men.
“We have economic challenges, and in this region it is magnified by single events. Hurricane Beryl, in 45 minutes, has sent people from the middle development class back to the poverty line. The entire fisheries sector in Barbados wiped out in 45 minutes. The beaches that are an important part of the revenue generation critical to the rebuild of the fisheries sector (are) gone; (as are those in) Grenada, St Lucia, Jamaica. In an environment in which there
is already great economic pressure, our region is now faced with these difficulties,” President Ali lamented.
Last year, Guyana had a significant decrease of 17 percent in total serious crimes for the year. There was a 15.7 per cent reduction in the total number of serious crimes, reflecting a reduction from 1,641 incidents in 2022 to 1,383 incidents in 2023. There was also a reduction of 42.7 per cent in reported incidents of robbery with violence, going from 82 incidents in 2022 to 47 such incidents in 2023.
Also in 2023, the United States Government had launched a Youth Resilience Inclusion and Empowerment (Y-RIE) programme in Guyana, positioning its intent to guide youths into productive adults, away from a life of crime and violence.
Y-RIE is intended to be a youth-centred, systems-strengthening activity based on a public health approach to violence prevention, and incorporates positive youth development ap-
proaches. It targets youths at risk between ages 10 and 29.
Over a five-year period, the project will be implemented in four Caribbean countries, including Guyana. The intention is to collaborate with Government to improve social services provided to youths who are at a higher risk of involvement in crime and violence.
The Guyana Prison Service (GPS) also has a “Fresh Start” programme which was launched in 2022 with the aim of reducing criminal recidivism by providing resources and motivation for success when ex-offenders rejoin the community.
It also aims to meet the needs of ex-offenders transitioning from incarceration back into society, as well as giving former offenders a chance to be better individuals. The GPS has said it plans to expand the oversight committee in 2024, to have more officers dedicated to identifying eligible candidates.
(G3)
From left are: Attorney-at-Law Keoma Griffith; Chancellor of the Judiciary,(ag) Justice Yonnette Cummings-Edwards; IDB Country Rep Lorena Solorzano Salazar; President Dr Irfaan Ali; CCJ Judge and Chairman of the CCJ Academy of Law, Justice Winston Anderson; Belize Chief Justice Louise Blenman, and Guyana’s Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC
Editor: Tusika Martin
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Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com
Guyana extending a helping hand to neighbours
In the wake of Hurricane Beryl, Guyana’s recent efforts to aid the island states are a beacon of hope and solidarity as the country, among others, is extending a helping hand to regional neighbours in need.
This powerful storm that wreaked havoc across several Caribbean nations has left behind a trail of destruction.
Guyana's response to the crisis has been nothing short of commendable. The Government swiftly mobilised resources and personnel to provide much-needed assistance to the affected countries. This proactive approach not only underscored Guyana's commitment to regional stability but also highlighted its readiness to act decisively in times of crisis.
One of the most inspiring aspects of Guyana's relief efforts is recognizing the interconnectedness of the Caribbean community as it worked closely with regional organisations and international partners to coordinate relief operations effectively. This coordinated response not only maximised the impact of aid but also ensured that help reached those who needed it most, in a timely and efficient manner.
Moreover, as soon as the impending passage of Beryl through the Region was announced, Guyana's President, Dr Irfaan Ali said: “I urge all citizens and the Private Sector of our region to coordinate closely with their respective governments and regional emergency response mechanisms in providing immediate support and relief to those affected by the hurricane…This is a time for all of us as a regional community to stand together and extend our support to those impacted or likely to be impacted by Hurricane Beryl. Let us mobilise the necessary assistance and relief efforts in the true spirit of regional solidarity. Together, we can overcome the adversities posed by this hurricane and ensure the safety and well-being of all our peoples and communities.”
In addition to governmental efforts, the people of Guyana also stepped up in solidarity with their Caribbean neighbours. Civil society organisations, Private Sector, businesses, volunteers and other individuals rallied together to donate essential supplies, volunteer their time, and offer support to the victims of Hurricane Beryl. This response reflected the deep empathy and compassion that define Guyana's national character.
As we reflect on Guyana's exemplary response to Hurricane Beryl, it serves as a reminder of the importance of regional cooperation and solidarity in times of crisis. Natural disasters do not recognise borders or nationalities –they affect all nations. By standing together and supporting each other, it shows that nations and their peoples can overcome even the most daunting challenges.
Hurricane Beryl once again highlights the Caribbean region's vulnerability to natural disasters and the urgent need for resilient infrastructure and preparedness. The impact of this hurricane extends beyond physical damage. It has tested the social and economic fabric of small businesses, tourism-dependent economies, and local agriculture that has suffered setbacks that can take years to recover from.
Looking ahead, it is imperative that regional nations continue to build on the lessons learnt from this experience. Strengthening regional mechanisms for disaster preparedness and response, investing in sustainable development practices, and enhancing community resilience are all essential steps towards a more resilient Caribbean region.
Guyana's and other regional, international countries’ compassionate and proactive response to Hurricane Beryl has set a good example. It has reaffirmed belief in the power of solidarity and collective action.
The Skeldon modernisation project, Nigel Hughes and Booker Tate
Dear Editor,
Contrary to AFC leader, Mr. Nigel Hughes’ false claim that a feasibility study was not done for the Skeldon Modernization Project, a feasibility study was in fact done by Booker Tate.
The Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) initially lacked needed experience and the financial capital needed to maintain the sugar estates and factories during economically difficult periods. Consequently, in the late 1980’s, former President Desmond Hoyte asked Booker Tate to take over the management of GuySuCo. This manifested into a contract by an Agreement between the Government of Guyana and Booker Tate Limited dated October 12th, 1990, renewed March 7th, 1994, and March 26th, 1996.
In 2000, GuySuCo hired Booker Tate to assist in developing the sugar industry to boost sugar production, lower operating costs, and improve profitability. This was a separate contractual agreement. Booker Tate conducted a viability and expansion study which recommended developing sugar production in the east of the country where agricultural conditions were more favorable. This resulted in GuySuCo deciding to con-
struct a new sugar cane factory at the Skeldon Sugar Estate.
Booker Tate was not only tasked with conducting the feasibility study but based on the findings and recommendations derived from feasibility study, they were also tasked with executing the entire project. This included overseeing the public tendering process, project design, scope of works, selection of the contractor, and project supervision to ensure quality assurance.
One of Booker Tate’s roles was to provide a comprehensive and detailed factory specification which would include the latest designs and technologies. The overall factory design was undertaken by a Chinese design institute and approved by Booker Tate.
Booker Tate’s role included the monitoring of construction process and ensuring design specifications, and quality control with respect to standards of workmanship, were maintained.
The relationship between GuySuCo and Booker Tate deteriorated due to sub-standard performance by Booker Tate in their oversight role of the Skeldon Project. To this end, under the Chairmanship of Dr. Nanda Gopaul, GuySuCo withheld payment of Booker Tate’s management fees,
which eventually led to Booker Tate taking court action against GuySuCo for same to be settled. The decision to withhold payment was based on the Board’s discovery of numerous acts of inefficiencies, mismanagement, poor decision making, and major planning deficits and flaws in the construction of the factory.
Based on sound legal advice, GuySuCo filed a counterclaim against Booker Tate for alleged contractual breaches in relation to the Skeldon Project. Booker Tate was in breach of its obligations under clause 4 and 2 of Schedule A of the Agreement. The Affidavit filed in the High Court by GuySuCo detailed the alleged breaches, which can be summarized as follows:
• Yield loss due to wrong choice of filed layout
• Loss of sugar
• Untimely installation of drainage structure
• Bungled reconfiguration of ridge and furrow to broad beds
• Poor placement of bridges.
• Poor construction of all-weather road.
• Water supply structure
• Multiple design flaws of the factory
• Modification of plant equipment for design capacity
The court proceedings began in October 2010. The Court’s ruling by a High Court Judge followed in February 2015. The Judge chose to rule only on Booker Tate’s case against GuySuCo. The Court, however, did not rule on the counter claim by GuySuCo. GuySuCo had sued for compensation for damages in the amount of $4.529 billion, owing to the breach of Booker Tate’s contractual arrangement in respect of their role in the Skeldon Project noted above. Considering the time value factor, when adjusted for inflation for the period 2005-2023, that sum has a present (2024) value of $7.924 billion.
Following the Supreme Court’s ruling, GuySuCo then filed an appeal with Guyana’s Appeal Court for that Court to consider its counter claim. In May 2015, the APNU+AFC formed a new government, and subsequently withdrew GuySuCo’ s case against Booker Tate and shockingly paid them as per the initial court judgement. No responsible government would have done that. By so doing, the APNU+AFC Government jeopardized the cash starved entity from recovering vast sums of monies lost due to their improper execution as per their contractual terms.
This photograph shows part of an Apatosaurus' dinosaur skeleton named "Vulcain", displayed at the Dampierre castle prior to an auction in Dampierre-en-Yvelines, south of Paris, France (AFP)
Do not give Lyte and McDonald a free pass
Dear Editor,
The call from a wide cross-section of the teaching community and the public at large is not to give Dr Mark Lyte and GTU General Secretary Coretta McDonald a free pass. Reasons being they were instrumental in leading the teachers on a prolonged strike, which resulted in our children being denied valuable instruction time as well as the delivery of a face-to-face quality education package. This is unacceptable behaviour coming from a union, and for such deliberate and reckless action, there must be consequences.
In the first place, when calling for a strike of such
magnitude, one must embark on a plan that has a purposeful objective, with its central theme being an industrial focus: the interest of teachers, and teachers only. This ought to have been their primary objective. A union cannot willy-nilly call a strike for narrow political gains and expect the employer -- in this case Government -- to bow to pressure like that. It simply does not work that way.
So, we knew what their motive was: that is, to hold the Government to ransom for an extended period, expecting the same Government to be humbled into a place where the workers are paid for being off the
job while the country is on a shutdown. In addition, there was the expectation that Government would rush to their aid and treat them as "special workers" of this country.
Well, I do not know where that special worker status came from, but what I do know is that teachers are a category of workers just like any other, and living in a country just like all others.
In fact, this strike was to have gathered the combined effort of all the unions in the public sector; this was the genius idea coming from the self-proclaimed fossil trade unionist from Kingelly. These were the po-
litical advisors that became the epicenter on which this strike was based.
So, 75 days were squandered because the GTU President did not heed wise counsel. This man simply surrendered to the dictates of a political general secretary who is vested in her party, and not in the welfare of teachers. Now that he has backed himself into a corner, he is crying out, looking for sympathy.
In my next article, I shall explore ways in which the union can reinvent itself and be a useful agent in negotiations.
Respectfully,
Neil Adams
Burke's utterly baseless and divisive remarks
Dear Editor,
The Association of the People of African Descent (APAD) is compelled to address the utterly baseless and divisive remarks made by Mr. Rickford Burke concerning our upcoming Emancipation Day celebration. Mr. Burke's attempts to mislead the public with his fearmongering and falsehoods are not only laughable, but are also detrimental to the unity of the Afro-Guyanese community.
To clarify for Mr. Burke and any other who may be confused: The Association of the People of African Descent (APAD) is a legitimate non-profit organization dedicated to empowering our community. Unlike
some entities that seem to believe they have a monopoly on Afro-Guyanese issues, we do not seek to monopolize or politicize our shared heritage. We are here to foster unity, not division. It is particularly ironic that a certain organization which claims to have the official emancipation event had previously sought financial assistance from the very Government it condemns, and claim exclusive rights over Emancipation Day celebrations. It is also notable that the organization charges exorbitant prices of its exhibitors and attendees, APAD paid Gy$140,000 to exhibit at ACDA’s 2023 event, and was deliberately placed at the back of the
venue, where we were unable to connect with the Afro-Guyanese community.
The Caribbean Guyana Institute for Democracy (CGID) does not own Emancipation Day, nor does it possess any special authority to denounce or dismiss other organizations striving to make a positive impact on our community.
In contrast, APAD's Emancipation Day event welcomes all attendees and exhibitors free of charge. As a nonprofit organization, our goal is solely to empower and uplift our community, without burdening them with unnecessary costs.
We do not seek approval from Mr. Burke or the Caribbean Guyana Institute
for Democracy (CGID) to host our event. Our commitment to celebrating our history, honouring our ancestors, and promoting progress within the Afro-Guyanese community remains steadfast.
Our organization is steadfast in its aim to foster unity among all AfroGuyanese. We believe in the strength that comes from standing together and working collaboratively to uplift our community. We reject any attempts to divide us, and will continue to promote unity and progress.
Best Regards, Association of the People of African Descent
The Skeldon modernisation project...
Based on the APNU/AFC withdrawal of the court action by GuySuCo, Booker Tate was relieved of any liability to the State in relation to the failure of the Skeldon Project. Effectively, APNUAFC bailed out Book Tate much at the expense of the sugar industry. The final proof came when they laid off 7,000 sugar workers. Interestingly, Booker Tate’s lawyer was none other than the esteemed Nigel Hughes. At the time when the APNU+AFC Government decided to withdraw the appeal filed against Booker Tate by the PPP/C Government, Mr. Nigel Hughes was the Chairman of the AFC, while he was the attorney representing Booker Tate.
The question is, why the APNU/AFC Government did not pursue the appeal against Booker Tate? It is reasonable to presume that Nigel Hughes who was the Chairman of the AFC at the time, that was part of the
Government, would have influenced the withdrawal of that appeal.
Summarily, Booker Tate was solely responsible for the failure of the Skeldon Sugar Estate due to its failure to satisfactorily fulfil their contractual obligations. It is worth emphasizing that Booker Tate was brought back to assist with technical support and corporate management of GuySuCo by the PNC Government in 1990, which the PPP/C government continued up until their termination following the disputes surrounding their handling of the Skeldon Project. The PPP/C government then sued Booker Tate to the tune of $4.529 billion for Skeldon. However, the PNC government that brought back Booker Tate in the 1990 was back in office in 2015 under APNU/AFC, and then effectively pardoned Booker Tate, relieving them of any liability by withdrawing the case from
the Court of Appeal, which was filed by the PPP/C government.
In the final analysis, herein presented is a classic piece of historic evidence involving Mr. Nigel Hughes demonstrating that when his party was in Government that he was also Chairman of, he would have acted in a manner that was unfavor-
able against the State, and financially favorable to himself and his client. This is indicative of what is unfolding once again in another form as regards his client-relationship with ExxonMobil Guyana, and him being the leader of a political party.
Yours sincerely, Joel Bhagwandin
Anti-oil activists epitomise 'give them an inch and they will want a yard' perfectly
Dear Editor, The Capping Stack is here, and many are expressing joy. Allow me to be the voice for the other side of this coin: the decision to park a Capping Stack in Guyana was an example of Government caving in to pressure from the local, ever-fearful, anti-oil environmental 'activists' at the expense of the Guyanese people.
Guyana's wells were adequately protected by subscription to the same stack just parked in Houston or Sao Paulo. It was probably better than it being based locally, as those ports are not subject to the tides, and the level of competence of the local workforce (Guyanese) is untested. Given what obtains to date in the emergency services, where we never have a firetruck, or
when we have the truck but it has no water etc., I have grave doubts about our ability and commitment. I sincerely hope we never have to find out.
Editor, I do hope that our Government(s) does not/ do not continue along this line of appeasement at the expense of the Guyanese people, for there is still the demand for 'unlimited insurance' to contend with. While the Capping Stack parking will cost us a few million USD annually, unlimited insurance would decimate our earnings by hiking the cost of oil production by hundreds of millions annually. The anti-oil activists epitomize 'give them an inch and they will want a yard' perfectly.
Sincerely, Robin Singh
Notation
Scientific notation is a way to express any number as a decimal greater than 1, multiplied by a power of 10. For example: 1300 can be expressed as 1.3 x 103 and 4,000,000 can be expressed as 4.00 x 106
How do you find a power of ten to use? Look at the number in standard, or regular, notation. Place a decimal point at the far right of that number. Move the decimal point left until you create a number that is greater than 1 but less than 10. Then count the number of places you had to move the decimal point. That is the power of 10 to use for a particular number.
Remember
When dropping zeros in a decimal, you may not drop any zero that has a number anywhere to its right. For example: In 3.10060, you may drop the final zero, but you may not drop the zeros between the 6 and the 1.
Example
Step 1: Place a decimal point at the right of the number 120, 500, 000.
Step 2: Move the decimal point left until you create a number that is greater than 1 but less than 10: 1.20500000
Step 3: Count the number of places you moved the decimal point. An easy way to do this is to count the number
of places to the right of the decimal. In this case, 8 places.
Step 4: Drop all zeros at the right end of the number: 1.205
Step 5: Express the original number in scientific notation: 1.205 x 108
Exercises: Convert to scientific notation (round to six decimal places to the right of the decimal)
Easy oobleck excavation
Materials: Cornstarch Water
Container or tray
Small dinosaurs or other items to be excavated
Blunt instrument or tool to use to dig in the easy oobleck excavation
Optional – Bath colouring tablets
Instructions:
Optional – Put a bath colouring tablet in the water. Avoid food colouring as it stains hands and is hard to remove.
Use your hands to mix about two cups
of cornstarch with one cup of water in the tray.
Push several dinosaurs or your preferred items to be excavated into the oobleck. Plastic items tend to float a little so be sure to check back a time or two and push them down into the oobleck.
Place the container of oobleck in front of a fan to dry overnight.
Make sure the easy oobleck excavation has dried.
Use the tool to scrape away and excavate the dried oobleck and uncover the treasures inside.
Once all the items have been discovered, the easy oobleck excavation can be reconstituted with water and the
oobleck can be enjoyed.
How it works: The cornstarch and water mixture we call Outrageous Oobleck is a non-Newtonian as it can act as a liquid or solid. Allowing Outrageous Oobleck to flow through your fingers will act as a liquid, but a quick force on oobleck will cause it to behave as a solid. Once the moisture evaporates, the cornstarch binds together forming the excavation material and trapping the items inside.
Make this a science project:
What happen when you increase the water to cornstarch ratio? What happens if you use a different liquid than water? What happens if you introduce another ingredient such as dish soap or baking soda? (sciencefun.org)
My Father’s Nest
BY DUNYA MIKHAIL
Today four little robins left the nest and flew away. I turn time to a month ago and see their nest growing over my home’s lamp stick by stick beat by beat song by song. I turn to yesterday and see their sunlit wings lifting from the nest leaving shadows with open beaks. Today I missed them as I did my father when he left us and never returned. Death didn’t give him a chance to get older. I’ve passed his age. He didn’t even finish the story he told me about the orphan child who walked on Earth looking up at the sky because he heard the dead live there. He saw their faces in the clouds and when he cried the clouds rained with him. I turn time back so my father brings me toys to share with the neighborhood girls pausing that moment while time takes the shape of a robin who doesn’t seem to hear my calling behind.
Source: Poetry (June 2024)
IDB, Commonwealth applaud Guyana’s ambitious law reform efforts
…advocate for enhanced restorative justice
On the occasion of the first Legal Conference on Criminal Justice Reform being held in Georgetown, Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Country Representative Lorena Solorzano Salazar highlighted the need for more restorative justice to be implemented, while also acknowledging the strides Guyana has made in reforming its criminal justice system.
She made these comments during Wednesday’s opening ceremony of the Legal Conference, which is aimed at advancing the Needham Point declaration. The IDB Country Representative lauded the progress made in this area and gave as an example the creation of the Law Reform Commission and legal provisions for the creation of a Restorative Justice Center.
“The Needham point declaration provides a comprehensive roadmap to making this a reality. So, implementing these recommendations requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders… governments, legal practitioners, civil society and international development partners.”
“I will commend and congratulate the efforts Guyana has been making for several years. I would say that in Guyana, we have significant strides in this direction. That support has also allowed for the establishment of key institutions and arrangements, to govern and update the align-
ment of the country’s laws with global legislative trends,” Salazar explained.
She noted that under the restorative justice programme, the Ministry of Legal Affairs has undertaken to draft 12 pieces of legislations and amendments. As a matter of fact, Salazar noted that legislative reforms in Guyana have increased at an unprecedented rate over the past three years.
“(This) represents one of the most ambitious efforts that we have supported in the Caribbean,” Salazar said, a reference to the IDB-funded Support for the Criminal Justice System Programme that Guyana, as well as other Caribbean countries, benefit from.
Commonwealth Commonwealth Secretary General, Baroness Patrica Scotland was also in high
praise for Guyana’s criminal justice reform progress. In a statement, Scotland said that she and her team not only salute Guyana for taking these bold steps, but will also be assessing how they can contribute.
“Justice is at the very heart of ensuring that we have a society that is not only enabling but equitable. We are charged to deliver justice, particularly for the poor, the marginalised, the silenced and the vulnerable. We can use the law as a weapon against injustice and wield it with skill whilst empowering the next generation.”
“By gathering regional stakeholders and approaching the planning process in a consultative and collaborative manner, shows a commitment to accessible and equitable justice. I salute the Government of Guyana for taking this bold step with this conference and look forward to sharing in the
Constitution Reform Commission Vice Chair elected, awaits appointment of secretary to begin work
The Constitution Reform Commission held its first meeting on Tuesday where Parliamentary Affairs & Governance Minister Gail Teixeira was elected as Vice Chairperson of the Commission.
The 21-member Commission is chaired by Justice Carl Singh and is tasked with reviewing the Constitution of Guyana and holding widespread stakeholder consultations on areas to be reformed.
However, before it begins working, there needs to be a secretary.
“All the decisions are to be made by the Commission, but the execution of the decisions will have to be done by the secretary,” Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Anil Nandlall pointed out during his weekly programme ‘Issues in the News.’
According to Nandlall, who is one of the 21 members that constitute the Commission – representing the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), discussions have begun on the remuneration and Terms of Reference (TOR) for a secretary who will serve as the head of the Commission’s secretariat
and play an integral role in the hiring of staff for the secretariat.
“The chairman has no staff and the commission has no secretary so there is no one to administer the affairs of the commission including the day-to-day running of the commission,” located at Middle Street, Georgetown, he explained.
To move this appointment process along, the Commissioners will communicate via email following which another meeting will be scheduled to determine how the appointment will be made.
The 2022 Constitutional Reform Commission Act has outlined several areas for potential reform, including Indigenous peoples’ rights, fundamental rights, children’s rights, eradication of discrimination, enhancement of race relations, and electoral reform, among others.
In addition to Nandlall and Teixeira, the other PPP/C representatives on the Commission are: Ministers Dr Frank Anthony, Pauline Sukhai, and Kwame McCoy.
The A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) parliamentary Opposition is represented by Vincent
Alexander, Sherwood Lowe, Ganesh Mahipal, and Nigel Hughes. The other political appointee is Timothy Jonas, who is the representative of the joinder parties that hold an Opposition seat in the National Assembly.
Labour Movement Representative Aslim Singh, National Toshaos Council Representative Derrick John, Private Sector Representative Ramesh Persaud, Women’s Representative Kim Kyte-Thomas, Youth Representative Dr Josh Kanhai, Muslim Representative Imran Ally, Hindu Representative Radha Krishna Sharma, and Farmers’ Representative Adrian Anamayah are the other members sworn-in by the President.
The other CRC members are the Guyana Bar Association Representative, Kamal Ramkarran; and Christian Representative Keoma Griffith. Constitutional reform was promised in the PPP/C 2020 Manifesto, where it was further outlined that consultation with the populace and important stakeholders and a broad-based Constitutional Reform Commission would drive the process.
discussions. Additionally, my team and I will be assessing how we can support these efforts going forward,” Scotland said in her statement.
Judicial improvements
Meanwhile, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, SC., in his address at the opening ceremony, highlighted areas in which the judiciary must focus on improving the dispensation of criminal justice.
“Judges and Magistrates must inject competence, impartiality and efficiency in the discharge of their functions. Cases must be concluded within reasonable time. Adjournments must only be granted for good and sufficient reasons. Once a decision is made, the reasons therefore must be made available swiftly so that the appellate process can proceed with dispatch.”
“Too often do we hear the cry across the Region, “justice delayed is justice denied”. governments must ensure that
the Judiciary is adequately resourced to enable the discharge of their duties with the requisite expediency,” Nandlall said.
The Attorney General noted that, at a time when Guyana and the region exist in exceptional circumstances, the solutions arrived at during the conference must also be exceptional. According to him, this calls for “robust and candid” discussions. Nandlall also expressed hope that the scope of the conference can be expanded in the future.
“While this Conference, as the name suggests, is the first of its kind ever held in Guyana, it is my hope that it will not be the last but will expand beyond the realm of criminal justice and embrace other fundamental areas of law, such as civil law practice and procedure, constitutional and public law, different facets of commercial law, oil and gas law, the environmental law, etc.”
“And of course, the new frontiers such as artificial intelligence. Needless to say, every
effort will be made to engage the CCJ Academy for Law and such like institutions in collaboration, so that we attract the broadest possible participation from the Region,” the Attorney General further said.
Restorative justice is a system of providing justice to persons through consultation between a victim, perpetrator and community member without imprisonment for non-violent crimes. It is an alternative approach that seeks to repair harm by providing opportunities for the victim and perpetrator to discuss and address their needs in the aftermath, in a way that promotes healing, accountability, and understanding. The method falls under the Support for the Criminal Justice System Programme, which is aimed at addressing the overcrowding in prisons by focusing on two aspects: the overuse of pre-trial detention, and the overreliance by the criminal justice system on custodial sentences. (G3)
IDB Country Representative Lorena Solorzano Salazar
Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC
Commonwealth Secretary General Baroness Patricia Scotland
Preparing…
…for elections
Like our own soul king Johnny Braff sang in 1965after the new PNC-UF Government threw out the PPP Govt - your Eyewitness “don’t care what they say…(or) care what they do”, but baby, he knows the elections season’s been well and truly launched!! The PPP’s been in election mode the minute they were allowed back in office – thanks to the international community’s “no can do!!” to APNU/AFC’s blatant rigging attempt!! Those spreadsheets and (soiled) bedsheetsat least they could’ve been a little discreet!!
So, the PPP’s had a pretty big jump on the Opposition – wouldn’t you say, dear reader?? They didn’t make no bones about their elections programme – then five years away in 2025. They were gonna use the oil funds - just starting to flow - to develop the country so humongously it would knock the socks off all the doubting Thomases!! Bridges, highways, hotels, skyscrapers, 50,000 houses; 50,000 jobs -- plus many of them high paying in the new oil sector -- were only the tip of what they promised was gonna be a Titanic-sinking kinda iceberg!!
And to give them credit, they switched gears in avoiding the elephant that’s been in every electoral room since 1957: they announced they were gonna address the “race” factor!! They were gonna go into every African-Guyanese community and ensure that shared in the development drive, so they, too, would shout from the rooftops: “Happy days are here at last!!!”. Now, after three years, they’re beginning to reap the rewards and can point to cadres of African-Guyanese in all of the traditional “Opposition strongholds”!! Then they staged the coup de grace: at their Congress in early May, they announced they were dumping all references to “Marxism” and such ideological cant!! They were just about DEVELOPMENT!!
Sadly, the Opposition PNC/APNU/AFC were caught with their pants down – it wasn’t a pretty sight!! - after their dismal economic record: tax and spend to the max!!, and the big rig. They faced a leadership crisis that dragged on into the present. And their recent Congress (PNC) and Conference (AFC) just added to their woes. And you ask what happened to the APNU coalition, dear Reader?? You may well ask - but there’s no easy answer!! The four parties the PNC had roped in as a “coalition” have thrown out the PNC, who then claimed they were still in and leading!! Their ONE vote was more than the other FOUR!! But then the PNC always had a way with numbers!!
Over at the AFC, their leader announced he was interested in “consensual” opposition politics – which for some reason got translated by the PNC that the AFC chap was insisting that ONLY he could be that “consensual leader!! Oy vey!!
…for a new Guyana
Well, the 2024 International Building Expo is only a month away, and it doesn’t matter what side of the divide you’re on…you gotta admit that the last two were great for our country as we try to build a new Guyana. Your Eyewitness knows there’s been Building Expos before –but trust him, those were different.
If for nothing else, it’ll make you get a concrete look (pun intended!) as to where this country of ours is headed - now that we’ve got some REAL money coming down the pike!! OK…let’s be honest: do you think hardnosed business types are going to ship down big-ticket items, like the all new 3-D Printer that constructs HOMES, if they didn’t think we have the big bucks to absorb the technology?? That system constructs homes in a matter of days - without the need for specialists such as brick layers, dry wall installers, roofers, carpenters, and their colleagues.
Let’s all prepare to be blown away after Emancipation Day!!
…for a mind change
Seriously, folks, you know your jaded Eyewitness doesn’t gush. But if you want to get a piece of local content that’s not directly tied to the oil industry, get into real estate!!
It’s gonna provide intergenerational wealth!!
“He is just a little innocent child” – mom of 6-year-old hit in head by stray bullet
Asix-year-old boy is now hospitalised and is in critical condition after he was shot in his head on Tuesday evening in Charlestown, Georgetown.
Injured is six-year-old Jeremiah Gustave of Charles Street, Georgetown, and a pupil of Smith Memorial Primary School. He was shot at about 19:45h on Tuesday just outside his home.
According to police reports, the child was standing next to his 39-year-old mother, who is a food vendor, on the eastern side of Charles Street, Charlestown when the suspect approached on a black motorcycle, with a gun in his hand.
As he approached, the woman’s food stall, he discharged four rounds in the direction of a man known as ‘Crab’, who was standing not far from the six-year-old and his mother. ‘Crab’ ran and made good his escape. In the process, the six-yearold was shot, and he fell to the ground.
The injured child was picked up by his mother
and taken to a city hospital, where he is receiving medical attention. Two 9mm spent shells were recovered at the scene by Police.
Speaking with Guyana Times, the child’s mother, Keisha Gustave, recalled the moment her son was shot. She recounted having heard gunshots in the community earlier but dismissed it as fireworks.
“I sell chicken and chips and Jeremiah came to me last night (Tuesday) and he asked me for some fries. I told him he was going to get the fries just now. I put on the fries for him and he was sitting and waiting. I kept hearing this scrib sound but I didn’t take it for nothing. He kept asking me, ‘Mommy the thing finished?”, she explained.
“By the time I turned around to take out the fish out of the pot, I heard him shouting for ‘Mommy, Mommy!’. When I turned, I see my son in a pool of blood, and a guy next door rushed over immediately and he took us to the hospital”.
The mother said her son was shot through his temple, and the bullet was lodged at the back of his head. After the shooting, he underwent emergency surgery and is currently on life support. The doctors have given him 48 hours to show signs of improvement, according to his family members.
“To be honest, I don’t even have words. I need justice for my son. He is just six years old. How can they do something like this to my son? Jeremiah is just six and he is just a little innocent child. Is that what you will do to an innocent child? Oh my God! I can’t take this”, the tearful mother expressed.
“Watching at my son I just keep breaking down
into tears. I went to the hospital, I kept calling him, ‘Jerry, Jerry mommy needs you, your family needs you, Jerry. Please come back
home to us, please’. All his eyes keep doing is moving all the time and all the doctors keep saying that we have to wait”.
Meanwhile, the mother is hoping that the suspect will be arrested soon so that she will be able to get justice for her son. (G9)
Injured: Jeremiah Gustave
The area where the shooting occurred
“No investigation” ongoing against senior officers – Top Cop
Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken has dismissed allegations that have recently surfaced to the effect that reports of corruption and financial misconduct have been made against senior officials in the Guyana Police Force. His rebuttal is that no such investigation is ongoing.
Reports have recently surfaced in the public domain that the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) – an arm of the Guyana Police Force – has been investigating allegations of financial impropriety and misuse of power made against senior ranks.
However, on the sidelines of an event on Wednesday, Hicken
cleared up those misconceptions by saying, “No! It’s not true. And I made a release already through our system… There is no investigation going on whatsoever.”
These allegations made against senior ranks of the Guyana Police Force come on the heels of a recent reshuffle of the GPF top brass. Deputy Commissioner ‘Administration’, Calvin Brutus, is now Head of the Special Branch, while Deputy Commissioner ‘Operations’, Ravindradat Budhram, is in charge of ‘Administration’; and Head of the Special Branch, Assistant Commissioner Errol Watts, has taken over ‘Operational’ duties
from Brutus.
Following announcement of “the shakeup”, GPF explained that these three senior ranks have been rotated to foster efficiency within the organisation. It has also been highlighted that this “shake-up” is necessary as part of the modernisation plan for the force, according to the GPF.
The GPF’s Strategic Plan 2022-2026 is geared at transforming the law enforcement organisation into a contemporary one through the development of its human resources and other capabilities at all levels.
Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn joined in at
the time by stating that, in order to implement the strategic plan, officers must have the right attitude and mindset.
“There’s a lot of things going for contemporary policing interventions in relation to information technology, and in particular training, but it will all go to naught (even) if you have the physical assets and the vehicles and the best legally trained and other trained managers… Nothing matters if, at the middle level, the purpose, the willingness, the activity and the direction do not integrate [with] what has to happen at the bottom in terms of actions to guarantee security,” Benn explained. (G1)
Dr Leslie Ramsammy presents credentials to Director General of UNOG
Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG), Dr Leslie Ramsammy presented his Letters of Credence to Director General, Tatiana Valovaya, officially accrediting him.
Celebration, held on May 25th, organised jointly by UNOG, the Permanent Missions of Slovenia and Switzerland, and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Geneva Office. She suggested Guyana consider joining
Following the formal ceremony, Dr Ramsammy engaged in discussion with Director General Valovaya, highlighting Guyana’s key priorities in the international arena. Climate change, food and nutrition security, energy security, and sustainable development emerged as focal points of their conversation.
Valovaya underscored the ongoing collaboration between the UN and Guyana under initiatives such as the Building Bridges Initiative and Bioplanet, inviting Guyana to join in these efforts. She particularly emphasised sustainable development, noting the potential for Guyana to contribute significantly in this area.
Moreover, Valovaya extended an invitation for Guyana to participate in the annual World Bee Day
the 2025 celebration, highlighting Guyana’s ongoing efforts to establish a honey bank.
In response, Dr Ramsammy expressed gratitude for the invitation and affirmed Guyana’s interest in participating in the World Bee Day Celebration next year. He mentioned Guyana’s commitment to environmental sustainability, exemplified by initiatives like the honey bank project.
Ramsammy assured Valovaya of Guyana’s steadfast support and dedication to furthering collaboration with the UN in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He emphasised the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges and advancing shared goals for a better future.
Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken
Deputy Commissioner Calvin Brutus
Deputy Commissioner Ravindradat Budhram
Assistant Commissioner Errol Watts
Guyana’s Permanent Representative to United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG), Dr Leslie Ramsammy presenting Letters of Credence to Director General Tatiana Valovaya
Director General of UNOG Valovaya in discussion with Dr Ramsamy
Teen attempting backflip drowns at National Aquatic Center Gunmen snatch $2M gold chain from Albouystown man
A14-year-old student of Dennis Street, Sophia Care Center, lost his life at about 15:05h on Tuesday at the National Aquatic Center at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.
Dead is Joel Adams.
According to the Guyana Police Force, Adams left the Care Center with a group of children at about 13:30h and went to the Aquatic Center for a swim programme.
The caretaker, Khemwatti Dasrat, related to investigators that at about 14:55h, she heard the whistle blow at the Aquatic Center, and the children started to exit the pool.
One of the swim coaches related that she saw when Adams backflipped into the pool, and the life guard jumped in the pool to rescue him. He was taken out of the pool and attended to by a nurse there on standby.
An ambulance was summoned, and he was taken
to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
The body is at the GPHC’s mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination.
Adams is the third person who would have lost his life by drowning this month. Just three days ago, the bodies of two young people were found a few
hours after they were reported missing at Unity Beach, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara (ECD).
Police said that the bodies of Navin Seenauth, 20, and Daniel Boodram, 17, were recovered in the Atlantic Ocean, just off the coast of Unity Beach, ECD.
It was reported that Seenauth, Boodram, and a 17-year-old, all from the Unity Village had gone swimming.
The lone survivor told investigators that the water was inshore with heavy waves upon their arrival. Despite the conditions, the youths proceeded to swim. The teen, who could not swim, exited the water but noticed that his two friends were no longer visible and raised an alarm.
The following day the body of Seenauth was discovered about 800 meters in the Atlantic Ocean with what appears to be fish bites. Boodram’s body was also sighted close by and was later fished out. (G9)
Hudson Thompson, a 28-yearold resident of Albouystown, Georgetown, was robbed of a gold and diamond chain valued at $2 million.
The robbery allegedly occurred at about 19:00h on Tuesday at James Street, Albouystown, by two men, one of whom was armed with a handgun.
Investigations disclosed that Thompson was on James Street, Albouystown, seated in front of a shop, and on his phone when he was approached by the two suspects, who were on a black motorcycle.
According to Police, the pillion rider dismounted, pulled out a handgun from the crotch of his pants,
pointed it at Thompson, and demanded that he hand over his chain.
Thompson tried to resist, but the suspect discharged a round in his direction, snatched the chain, and dealt him a lash to his forehead with the gun, causing him to receive injuries.
Dead: Joel Adams
The two perpetrators made good their escape on the motorcycle, east along James Street.
Persons in the area were questioned, and one 9mm spent shell was recovered at the scene. Police have since launched an investigation. (G9)
Over US$502B needed annually for Caribbean to successfully achieve SDGs – President Ali
...as
Caribbean Investment Forum opens in Guyana
for sewer treatment.
The Caribbean must invest over US$502 billion annually to achieve the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, President Dr Irfaan Ali has said.
The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth's environment, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity.
According to the Head of State, of the required sum US$373 billion is needed annually for water and sanitation, US$256 billion for new infrastructure, US $90.6 billion to access safe drinking water and US $16.8 billion
Additionally, the region as a collective must invest US $140 billion towards safely managing sanitation, among others.
The Guyanese leader, who was at the opening of the third Caribbean Investment Forum at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), explained that the current financing gap presents an opportunity for the region to find innovative ways to increase investment through public-private partnerships.
“How do we mobilise capital? And what opportunities does this bring for public-private partnerships for developing models that
can work in the interest of achieving the SDGs, but also can be profitable for the private sector. The days when we look at these things as investment only by the state is coming to an end. We have to deploy private capital and find the best model in deploying that capital to meet these financing gaps,” the Head of State emphasised.
Further, to provide universal access to electricity US$577 billion is required, and new infrastructure for this specific goal amounts to US $396 billion.
Moreover, infrastructure for transportation and logistics requires an annual investment of US $976 billion and of this sum US $310 bil-
lion should be allocated to roads, US $15.2 billion for airports, and US $222.4 billion for Urban Mass Transit Infrastructure.
President Ali noted that in closing the gaps, the region should prioritise building a robust financing system.
“In my humble opinion, as a region we have to develop a common platform on digitisation, financial services and financial integrity, leveraging our comparative advantage. Here in Guyana for example, we are looking at value creation and value addition, the development for example of prefab homes. So, we have to look at how we create high yielding open
opportunities that answer the issue of resilience and sustainability,” President Ali added.
The 2024 Caribbean Investment Forum will run from July 10 to 12, at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC).
As this year’s host country, President Ali said Guyana plans to center discussions on crucial topics such as sustainable agriculture, transitioning to a green economy, and the digitalisation of business operations.
In this regard, agriculture and food security are high on the list, along with the target of achieving cheaper energy by 2025
Concordia 2024 Amazonas Summit
to facilitate large-scale agro-processing and sustainable farming.
The conference also aims to provide a platform for businesses to showcase their development plans and projects to potential investors, given that another key objective of the forum is to foster joint ventures and partnerships, particularly in sectors like tourism, to enhance collaboration and product offerings.
Guyana Times understands that an average of 400 to 700 bankable investors from the region are attending the event, which includes an exposition for local private companies. (G1)
Guyana commits to doubling protected areas within 18 months
With Guyana laying down ambitious goals for its biodiversity, such as the doubling of protected areas within 18 months, President Dr Irfaan Ali is also aiming to have biodiversity feature prominently in the global conversation.
President Ali was in attendance during Wednesday’s launch of the second edition of the Concordia Amazonas Initiative, which will take place from July 9-13 in Guyana. The summit seeks to bring leaders together from various sectors and industries, to come up with solutions for preserving the
Amazon rainforest.
The launch, which took place at the Baganara Island Resort in the Essequibo River, a few miles from Bartica, also had in attendance former President of Colombia, Ivan Duque, a member of the Concordia Leadership Council, and Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat. In his opening remarks, Duque announced that President Ali had committed to doubling Guyana’s protected areas, which currently cover around 8.4 per cent of the country’s landmass.
“This is the first time that we start a summit, although this is our sec-
ond summit, with a major announcement… because Guyana has committed to duplicate its protected areas in the course of the next 18 months.”
“Saying that, President Ali has also committed that Guyana reaches 30 per cent of its territory declared legally a protected area by 2030. According to the World Biodiversity agreement that was reached in Montreal, with more than 90 countries,” Duque said.
The former President also praised Guyana’s vision to lead a number of countries on a large-scale biodiversity agenda, which will produce not only value, but a protection strat- egy for the short, medium and long term, “and be rewarded, be supported and be funded by market driven mechanisms associated by nature. So, that plan will be led by President Ali. We’re working so that this agenda becomes part of the G20 conversations.
Becomes part of the United Nations General Assembly conversations. And also becomes a very substantial part of the conversation at COP 30.” the former president stated
Global conversation
When he addressed those gathered, President Ali reinforced the need to carry the conversations on protecting biodiversity globally. He noted Guyana’s success in creating a national biodiversity strategy and noted the transferability of this success on the global stage.
“A lot of work has already started…So, you see [as part of] maintaining Guyana’s forests, what we’re doing is aligning national strategy with global action. It is the same strategy I believe we can develop for biodiversity and to bring all the stakeholders together,” the Head of
State said.
According to President Ali, a model must be developed and then proposed to the global community, in an effort to influence change on a worldwide stage and a shifting in the conversation on protecting bio diversity.
“It is a short timeframe; it’s a lot of work, but I think in the interest of the planet, we have to do that. But more importantly, we will be making a major contribution to science. We will be doing all [the] groundwork to develop a model, and then to demonstrate to the world that a model can work at scale,” President Ali further said.
It was only a few days ago that President Ali had announced that the Government will be working closely with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to develop an Economic model for biodiversity, ecological and climate services in keeping with Guyana’s global commitment to tackle the challenges of climate change, energy sustainability, and food security.
He had made this announcement at the EPA’s 28th Anniversary Dinner
and Awards Ceremony held on Sunday at the Marriott Hotel where he noted that consultations for the model will commence soon with key stakeholders.
Guyana has already developed a model that promotes avoided deforestation, through the country providing climate services to the world. For instance, as of February, Guyana had earned US$37.5 million from the sale of high-quality carbon credits for 2024 and US$150 million total last year, from the multi-year agreement with United States energy-major Hess Corporation, which carries a total value of US$750 million. Of the US$150 million (last year), US$22.5 million or 15 per cent went to the indigenous communities –15 percent of it. These communities have implemented over 800 projects funded by these carbon credits, in hundreds of Indigenous villages. The remainder of this money is being used to fund adaptation measures such as mobile pumps and large canals to move water from the back lands to the Atlantic Ocean among other initiatives. (G3)
President Dr Irfaan Ali hosted a dinner for participants of the Concordia Summit at State House on Tuesday evening
Perry Center facilitates tabletop exercise to examine Guyana’s crisis response
The William J. Perry Center for Hemispheric Defence Studies on Tuesday facilitated a role-play tabletop exercise to examine Guyana’s crisis response.
Hosted by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), the inaugural exercise here, called “KRISIS!” was done in partnership with the Guyana Government. It targeted 35 senior security and defence sector participants and observers in Georgetown.
“KRISIS!” examines the ability of government – institutions, procedures, personnel, protocols, legal frameworks, etc. – to respond to crises and disasters. Exercising crisis response allows participants to diagnose problems, identify gaps, and employ potential corrective measures.
The Perry Center designed and facilitated the simulated exercise, which employs multiple disaster and crisis
response scenarios – both natural and human-made – complemented with focus areas such as mission analysis, strategy development, and strategic communication.
In opening remarks, Perry Center Director, Dr Paul J. Angelo, noted the exercise “was developed to address the need to frequently review and revise decision-making processes and procedures to enable effective and rapid response in ever-changing landscapes.”
Dr Angelo added that “its application is not limited to crisis response but will inform and improve steady-state decision-making. The fact that Guyana and our partners in the Guyana Defence Force have offered to host our first-ever KRISIS! exercise speaks volumes about the level of trust we have built over the past 27 years with Guyana. We are honored and proud to be here.”
The Perry Center has a strong, collaborative relationship with partners in Guyana. During his visit, Dr Angelo also met with institutional partners to discuss ongoing and future collaborative efforts.
This visit by Dr Angelo builds upon his previous March trip to Georgetown to present the William J. Perry Award for Excellence in Security and Defence Education to the University of Guyana in recognition of the University’s Master of Science in Strategic Development Studies programme.
Distinguished Perry Center alum President Dr Irfaan Ali had participated in the March ceremony, and in two Perry Center-hosted forums in Washington, D.C.
In his address at the UG Turkeyen Campus in March, President Ali had said that with this recognition, the university is being positioned as “a central
hub” for security training and integration of defence leadership in the region.
Consequently, the Guyanese Head of State had noted that UG will be the host of the National Defence Institute, which will be a “subset” of the United States’ National Defence University.
“We intend …this year to bring into establishment, the National Defence Institute. We are hoping that the home can be right here at the University of Guyana. So, we intend to have the defence national institute that will be a subset of the national defence university here because we find alignment between the academic curriculum and the strategic thinking of the national defence institute.”
President Ali went onto say that programmes
and collaborations such as these will see the further development of the intellectual minds of those who are responsible for security policies. He noted the aim is for the National Defence Institute to serve the Caribbean Community (Caricom) as well as other regional partners such Brazil and even Venezuela.
“This partnership is about positioning us as a country and we want to position Guyana and the University of Guyana and the National Defence Institute as the premier regional security institution, where not only persons within CARICOM but we are looking beyond CARICOM; we are looking at Brazil as a major stakeholder and why not even personnel from Venezuela to be a part of our security
infrastructure from an institutional perspective, from a training perspective.”
The William J. Perry Center for Hemispheric Defence Studies supports the community of security and defence professionals in the Americas to pursue collaborative approaches to mutual opportunities and challenges. Through academics, research, and outreach, including ministerial-level consulting, we advance sustainable institutional capacity, strengthen the rule of law and democracy, and promote a greater understanding of US policy throughout the Western Hemisphere. Located at the National Defence University, the Perry Center is a US Department of Defence regional center for strategic studies.
Teenager, peacemaker injured by cutlass mob
Ateenager was severely wounded and another man injured when they were assaulted by a mob wielding cutlasses, sticks, and chains.
Nineteen-year-old Sudesh Persaud said the incident occurred on Sunday afternoon at Albion, Corentyne, (East BerbiceCorentyne).
He said he was attacked by a group of men who were trying to kill him, and despite seeking refuge in two different yards, he was still on the receiving end of cutlass blades.
The teenager, who received chop wounds to his feet, hand, forearm, and multiple injuries to his head, claimed that he was drinking at a bar not far from his home and when he left, he encountered a 13-yearold, who plays cricket at the same venue as he does.
According to the construction worker, he engages the teen in conversation but shortly after he was attacked by a mob which arrived in two cars.
The persons alleged that
Injured teen Sudesh Persaud
he attacked the 13-year-old with a sharp instrument.
Persaud said he sought refuge in a yard, but his at-
tackers rushed him despite being warned by the property owner not to enter his yard.
Video footage seen by this publication shows a group of men forcing their way into a yard and then unleashing a series of blows on Persaud.
The video also shows the teenager escaping and running into another yard and subsequently into the house where screams were heard. He was then seen walking out of the yard and as he did, he was being hit with sticks.
Meanwhile, Lakram Raminal, who lives at the first premises where Persaud sought refuge said he was also beaten by the mob after he tried to stop them from attacking the teenager.
“I tried to prevent them men from coming into my yard and they push my gate open and proceed to beat the youth man and beat me because I try to prevent the problem,” Raminal explained to this publication.
Meanwhile, a woman who lives in the second yard in which Persaud sought refuge told this publication she was attempting to lock her gate while the mob was on her bridge but one of them
raised a cutlass at her forcing her to flee, leaving the gate open.
The woman fled to the safety of her neighbour's house.
Persaud ran into the woman's kitchen, where he was again attacked.
However, shortly after he was asked to leave the premises; his attackers followed him.
Meanwhile, the teenag-
er's mother, Lila Persaud while calling for swift justice, explained that she later found out that one of the attackers accused the teenager of attacking the 13-yearold with a sharp instrument. Police subsequently arrested a businessman, who has since been released on station bail. Investigations are continuing. (G4)
Some of the men standing outside one of the houses where the teen had sought refuge
Perry Center’s inaugural exercise with senior security and defence sector participants in Guyana
Participants at Perry Center’s KRISIS exercise on Tuesday
Reduction in energy costs will improve export capability – GMSA President
…Gas-to-Energy project will propel small businesses
The manufacturing sector in Guyana will see substantial growth with the reduction in the cost of energy when the Gas-to-Energy project is launched.
According to the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) President Ramsay Ali, this reduction will improve export capability significantly.
Ali was at the time speaking during a recent edition of the Energy Perspectives podcast, and stated that most local manufactures are not competitive in the export market due to the high cost of production.
He noted that one of the main factors that contribute to high production costs is
the cost of energy. On this point Ali emphasised that if businesses are able to reduce their production cost, due to a decline in the cost of energy, their export capability would be improved significantly.
“But really and truly, you don't make a significant amount of profit in exports, simply because of the cost of production. So, there you go. if you can have that kind of reduction in your production cost, because of energy, and then you're going to talk to us now about the quality of energy, your export, these companies I'm talking about, their exportability will significantly be raised,” he asserted.
Moreover, Ali noted that
the US$1.7 billion Gas-toEnergy project will bring major benefit small businesses.
He noted that most large manufacturing companies have already invested in energy generating systems, when the new project comes online these companies will most likely utilise a hybrid system, which will use energy from the grid combined with energy generated from their systems. However, for the small businesses, he noted, this project will improve their trajectory on the export market by reducing the overall cost of energy by up to 30 per cent.
“I'm even more excited for small businesses with this project than for larger
Massy Stores launches
self-checkout service
Massy Stores Guyana has launched its self-checkout service at Massy Stores Mega. This system is designed to enhance customers’ shopping experience by making it easier, seamless, and more efficient.
On Wednesday, the company said that the self-checkout system is specifically tailored for customers with 10 items or less, providing a quick and convenient way to complete their purchases.
“This initiative is part of Massy Stores’ ongoing ‘One Size Does Not Fit All’ campaign, where customers are offered more control and flexibility while shopping.
Three self-checkout units have been installed at the Turkeyen location at the MovieTowne complex. Customers can make payments using any Visa or MasterCard. Additionally, customers can still scan their Massy Card and re-
ceive the usual benefits,” the company said in a release.
Store Manager, Simone Savory said, “this initiative aligns with the company’s commitment to providing innovative solutions prioritising customer convenience and satisfaction.” She encouraged customers to utilise the service, adding that in the initial stage, dedicated attendants will be available to assist
customers as needed, ensuring a smooth and efficient checkout process.
Following the implementation at Massy Stores Mega, Massy Stores Guyana plans to expand the self-checkout service to other locations across Guyana soon. This expansion will allow more customers to benefit from the convenience and efficiency of self-checkout technology.
companies. Because some of the larger companies have invested so heavily in their generating systems. But for me personally, I am so excited about the effect, the positive effect we will have for the smaller businesses. If they can see a 20% reduction in their costs, or 30% reduction in their overall cost because of energy, that's going to be amazing for them. It can be a game changer for them” he stated.
Additionally, the GMSA president highlighted that low energy cost, coupled with the increase in consumption of local products and the implementation of new agricultural practices will transform the agro-processing landscape in Guyana.
He noted that Guyana is poised to become a regional leader in agro-processing once the Gas-to-Energy project comes on stream in 2025. However, Ali stressed that for the benefits of the new energy project to be maximized the government must continue to invest and improve the power grid to equip these companies with reliable energy.
The scope of Guyana’s Gas-to-Energy project con-
sists of the construction of 225 kilometres of pipeline from the Liza field in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, where Exxon and its partners are currently producing oil.
It features approximately 200 kilometres of a subsea pipeline offshore that will run from Liza Destiny and Liza Unity floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessels in the Stabroek Block to the shore. Upon landing on the West Coast Demerara
shore, the pipeline would continue for approximately 25 kilometres to the NGL Plant at Wales, West Bank Demerara.
As of January, this year, the marine offloading facility has been completed, and 26 kilometres (km) of onshore pipelines have been installed. Once completed, the project will allow Guyanese to benefit from 50 per cent reduced electricity costs. As it is now, the demand for electricity has been steadily rising.
2 brothers chopped to death in Parika brawl
Police are investigating a chopping incident that resulted in the deaths of two brothers, both residents of Parika Facade, East Bank Essequibo.
Dead are Marvin Joseph, 17, and Ellis Joseph, 30.
Reports are that the double-murder occurred at around 15:00 h on Wednesday at Lot 4'A' St. Lawrence, East Bank Essequibo. The residence where the incident occurred belongs to the 51-year-old aunt of the suspect.
According to preliminary investigations, the sequence of events began when Ryan Fredericks, 25, a miner from Pomeroon arrived at his aunt's house. As Fredericks walked in the yard, he encountered the Joseph brothers, who were passing by on a motor canter. According to
Police, the brothers reportedly disembarked armed with cutlasses and charged towards Fredericks.
A confrontation ensued, during which Fredericks attempted to evade the brothers by fleeing towards the house. In an effort to escape, Fredericks jumped through a glass louvres window on the lower flat of the house.
The altercation escalated as the brothers pursued Fredericks into the house, resulting in a violent clash where all three men sustained serious injuries.
Police on Wednesday evening said that Marvin Joseph collapsed on a nearby wooden bridge outside the house, unconscious from his injuries. Ellis Joseph, bleeding profusely, was assisted by a passerby and rushed to Leonora Cottage Hospital,
where he succumbed to his wounds despite medical efforts.
Ryan Fredericks, who was also injured during the altercation, was arrested by police and transported to Leonora Cottage Hospital for medical treatment. He sustained a significant incised wound to his right side back and other minor cuts, Police said.
Examinations conducted on Marvin and Ellis Joseph revealed multiple incised wounds, with Marvin's injuries including a severe wound to his abdomen. The bodies of both victims were transferred to the Ezekiel Funeral home pending further investigation and post-mortem examinations. Police did not say what was the motive behind the altercation.
GMSA President Ramsay Ali
From left: Dennis Heywood, Marketing Assistant (Massy Stores (Guyana) Inc; Simone Savory (Store Manager, Massy Stores Mega); Kester Hutson (President of GCCI); Chrystel Taylor (Marketing Supervisor, Massy Stores (Guyana) Inc and Christpen Bobb-Semple (Director, Massy Stores (Guyana) Inc
$200M allotted to upgrade Rasville, Roxanne Burnham Gardens' roads
…project to be completed by September
Government has allocated some $200 million to enhance thoroughfares in the communities of Rasville and Roxanne Burnham Gardens. This was revealed by Public Works Minister, Juan Edghill, on Tuesday during a recent community outreach with residents at Well Site, Roxanne Burnham Gardens.
The minister highlighted to residents that similar infrastructural developments that are happening in nearby areas such as East and West Ruimveldt will soon also be taking place in their communities. On this point the minster noted that the ministry will soon deploy its special programs unit to begin the necessary enhancement works in the area.
“Within the next 10 days the Ministry of Public Works special programmes unit will be fully mobilised and the entire network of Rasville and Roxanne Burnham Gardens will be done over, your programme
September.
“Before school reopens for September with the pace that we work at the ministry through the special projects unit if we don’t complete everything, we will be more than 90% substantially complete with all the roads that you want to do in here” the minister stated.
Additionally, Edghill noted that small contracts will be awarded to residents if there is a need for additional labour. Similar contracts will also be given to
just in terms of road development we will be injecting close to $200 million in your community,” the minister asserted.
Further, he pointed out that the new project would not be handled by a contractor. According to the minister, this decision was made to guarantee that the rehabilitation works are completed promptly. He informed residents that all road improvement efforts should be finished by
residents to clean and improve the drainage systems in the area.
Meanwhile, also speaking at the outreach was Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Todd, who highlighted that the government is committed towards developing every area in the country.
“When I say inclusive, I mean leaving no one behind taking every citizen in every community in every region
Unemployed man nabbed with illegal gun, ammo
A22-year-old unemployed resident of Farm, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was arrested and taken into custody at the Providence Police Station on Tuesday after he had in his possession, an illegal firearm and matching ammunition.
According to reports, Police were patrolling the Providence Police Station District around 14:09h when they noticed two males on a motorcycle near Farm, EBD.
The Police gave chase, prompting the motorcyclist and his pillion rider to abandon the motorcycle and flee in different directions. One suspect ran towards the public road while the other headed into nearby bushes.
Continuing the pursuit, Police observed the pillion rider discard a black object into the bushes. The object was retrieved and found to be a 9mm firearm, along with a magazine containing five live rounds of 9mm ammunition.
The 22-year-old unemployed resident of Farm, was arrested and is currently in custody at the Providence Police Station pending further investigations. (G9)
into consideration so when we talk about development we’re speaking about development in a very balanced way,” he stated.
The minister also encouraged members of the community to communicate
more. He noted that this is important in ensuring that each stakeholder is up to date about projects and future developments that the government has planned for the area.
In 2024 the govern-
ment allocated over $200 billion to the Public Works Ministry. The primary focus of this budget is the extensive enhancement of the country’s roads and bridges, aiming to boost transportation and connectivity.
Cadet Corps' annual camp kicks off with promise of fortifying bonds, friendships
The Guyana National Cadet Corps (GNCC) Annual Camp 2024 has begun with the opening at the President's College tarmac, Golden Grove, East Coast Demerara (ECD). The event saw 388 cadets from 38 schools across Guyana's 10 administrative regions converging for a week-long journey of personal growth and camaraderie.
Under the banner of "Fortifying bonds, creating a better future through collaboration and cultivation of life-long friendships," this year's camp promises to be a transformative experience for the young participants.
Lieutenant Colonel Lloyd
Souvenir, Commandant of the Guyana National Reserve (GNR), delivered an inspiring opening address, urging the cadets to aspire
for excellence in all their endeavors.
"Strive for excellence, stay true to your principles, and uphold the values and standards of the Guyana Defence Force," Colonel Souvenir emphasised, setting the tone for the week ahead.
The camp itinerary is packed with activities designed to enhance leadership, foster communication skills, and cultivate a spirit of teamwork among the cadets. Over the next seven days, they will engage in a variety of pursuits including academics, drills, camp craft, first aid training, and even firefighting demonstrations.
Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill
A section of the gathering at the meeting
Brazil’s Lower House of Congress takes major step to enact tax reform
Lawmakers in Brazil’s Lower House approved on Wednesday the main text of a bill that would carry out a major tax overhaul, which aims to boost productivity by streamlining a tax system critics blame for burdening businesses with excessive costs.
Lawmakers in the chamber are proceeding to additional votes on amendments
to the proposal.
The bill, which still needs a vote in the Senate, includes regulations needed to implement a constitutional tax reform approved last year. The overhaul would consolidate five existing taxes into a single consumption levy, also known as a value-added tax (VAT), featuring separate federal and regional rates. It would also
introduce a tax on products considered harmful to the environment or human health, like cigarettes and alcoholic beverages.
The list of harmful products subject to the tax also includes gambling games and electric vehicles (EVs), with some lawmakers citing the negative environmental impact of discarding EV batteries.
Lower House lawmakers tweaked the original version of the bill by limiting the overall consumption tax to a maximum rate of 26.5 per cent.
The Government of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva initially sent the implementing tax legislation to Congress in April.
While the approved text did not add beef to a list of essential products that would be eligible for a tax exemption, lawmakers later voted for an amendment to provide it, in line with recent comments by the President endorsing the idea.
(Reuters)
CCRIF to pay out EC$118M to Grenada
The Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility (CCRIF) will, this week, make payouts to the Government of Grenada totalling about US$44 million (EC$118 million) following the passage of Hurricane Beryl.
The hurricane devastated 90 per cent of all buildings – the airport, marinas, gas stations, the hospital and homes – on the islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique – two of the sister islands that comprise the State of Grenada.
There was also significant damage to the agriculture sector as well as the natural environment, including mangrove ecosystems. Electric utilities, mainly the transmission and distribution systems on both islands, also were
significantly damaged. The north of mainland Grenada was also not spared the wrath of Hurricane Beryl, with damage to homes, the agriculture and forestry sectors, and electric utility transmission and distribution and water distribution systems.
CCRIF’s parametric insurance policies make payments based on the intensity of an event and the amount of loss calculated in a pre-agreed model caused by these events. The payout to Grenada on its tropical cyclone (TC) policy is the single largest payout by CCRIF. Until now, it was Haiti, which received just under US$40 million following the 2021 earthquake.
“These payouts represent Grenada’s first payouts from CCRIF. I commend the Government of
Grenada, which has always maintained that despite not receiving a payout, it understood the importance of financially protecting the economy in case a disaster strikes, as it would never want to see a repeat of Hurricane Ivan,” said CCRIF Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Isaac Anthony.
Anthony, in reflecting on Beryl, further stated that, “countries ought to treat parametric insurance for natural hazards like they treat health insurance. We buy health insurance because it is important to help safeguard our lives. However, we hope we do not need it, but when we do, we have the peace of mind that it could help us deal with a more serious illness than a common cold. (Excerpt from Nation News)
Argentina inflation seen speeding up in June, ending 5-month streak
Argentina inflation is expected to have accelerated to over five per cent in June, which would end a five-month streak of slowing price increases, according to a Reuters poll on Wednesday.
A survey of 21 local and foreign analysts forecast a median estimate of 5.1 per cent and a mean average of 5.2 per cent inflation for June.
The South American nation, since the inauguration of President Javier Milei
late last year, has tracked slowing inflation, with levels decelerating from 25.5 per cent in December to 4.2 per cent in May.
The June figure is expected to break the streak. Analysts’ forecasts ranged between 4.6 per cent and 5.6 per cent.
Fundacion Libertad y Progreso said the acceleration was explained “more than anything by regulated prices, which registered a monthly increase of 8.6 per cent, mainly influenced by
updated gas and electricity rates”.
Consultancy Orlando Ferreres y Asociados said the increases were led by housing and transport and communication costs, at around 17 per cent and 11 per cent respectively, and followed by health and education, both at around 6 per cent.
The national INDEC statistics agency is set to release its inflation data on Friday at 1900 GMT. (Reuters)
Jamaica: 8 parliamentarians now referred for illicit enrichment
The Integrity Commission (IC) on Wednesday sought to correct inaccuracies published by at least two media outlets regarding the parliamentarians who were referred for illicit enrichment.
The IC said the two parliamentarians who have been referred for illicit enrichment in the 6th Annual Report for 2023-2024 tabled in Parliament on Tuesday has nothing to do with the six Members of Parliament who were referred in the previous 2022-2023 reporting year.
It further emphasised that when both reporting years were considered, there are eight parliamentarians who have been referred for illicit enrichment.
The Commission went on to highlight that a news re-
port published in the Jamaica Gleaner on Wednesday with headline ‘Illicit 6 is now down to 2’ and another report from Nationwide90FM on Tuesday that “only two parliamentarians are now under investigation for Illicit Enrichment” are “patently inaccurate, misguided and without any foundation whatsoever in fact or in law”. The IC further added that it “has made no comment on the status of any investigation that may be related to any specific Illicit Enrichment Referral. It has no power in law to do so.” (Jamaica Observer)
The Trinidad and Tobago Government is taking action against criminals causing chaos in Tobago. Prime Minister, Dr Keith Rowley and Tobago House of Assembly Chief Secretary Farley Augustine have agreed on a new crime
UNDP helps T&T Government strategise against human trafficking
Trinidad and Tobago
National Security Minister Fitzgerald Hinds has received four strategic Trafficking-InPersons reports from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to combat human trafficking through a multi-country initiative known as CariSecure 2.0.
Funded by USAID and implemented by the UNDP,
CariSecure 2.0 provides technology, equipment and training to national institutions and agencies to enhance crime data collection and analysis to create evidence-informed approaches to reduce human trafficking. This led to the creation of four reports: a costed implementation roadmap for the National Action Plan, a strategic plan for prosecu-
tion enhancement, a capacity-building report and recommendations for future progress.
Hinds, at the official handover ceremony at the International Waterfront Building on July 10, said while he had not yet read the contents of the reports, every effort would be made to follow its recommendations. Previously, Trinidad and
Tobago remained on the Tier 2 Watch List on the Traffic In Persons report for three years consecutively before being upgraded to Tier 2 in June.
Hinds said the collaboration between the UNDP and National Security had five aims, the first of which targeted youth involvement in crime. (Excerpt from Trinidad Newsday)
plan to deal with the surge in murders and shootings on the island.
Dr Rowley commented on the matter during a media conference at the Office of the Prime Minister, Central Administrative Services, Tobago, Tuesday, where he lamented that he was not pleased with the crime rate on the island where he grew up.
“I am not happy at all, and it diminishes me, and
I think it diminishes all of Tobago,” he said. With mass shootings a growing phenomenon in Trinidad, he said Tobago cannot be isolated.
The PM was in Tobago one day after a quadruple murder rocked the island. The conference followed a meeting of the National Security Council, which he heads.
(Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)
The plenary chamber of deputies during a session to elect the new Brazilian Lower House President in the plenary of the House of Representatives in Brasilia, Brazil, February 1, 2021 (Reuters/ Adriano Machado file photo)
Members of Parliament in the House of Representatives
Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley, right, speaks during the National Security Council meeting at the Office of the Prime Minister, Central Administrative Services, Tobago. In attendance were National Security Minister Fitzgerald Hinds, Tobago House of Assembly Chief Secretary Farley Augustine, Police Commissioner Erla Harewood-Christopher, and members of the T&T Police
Around the World
OOIL NEWS
Oil settles higher on hopeful demand outlook as US oil stocks sink
Israel cites
aid
backlog in Gaza;
UN
says: “We’re doing what we can”
Ail prices settled higher on Wednesday after a jump in US refining activity last week drove a larger-than-expected decline in gasoline and crude inventories, but gains were capped due to minimal supply disruptions from Hurricane Beryl.
Brent futures settled up 42 cents, or 0.5 per cent at US$85.08 a barrel. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude settled up 69 cents, or 0.85 per cent, at US$82.10 a barrel.
WTI rose by as much as US$1 during the session, after the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported that US crude inventories fell by 3.4 million barrels to 445.1 million barrels in the week ended July 5, far exceeding analysts’ expectations in a Reuters poll for a 1.3 million-barrel draw.
Gasoline stocks fell by two million barrels to 229.7 million barrels, much bigger than the 600,000-barrel draw analysts expected during US Fourth of July holiday week.
“More than anything the EIA data seems to be the driving force right now for higher prices,” said Phil Flynn, analyst at Price Futures Group.
Both crude futures contracts had ended the previous three sessions lower on signs that the Texas energy industry came off relatively unscathed from Hurricane Beryl.
Oil and gas companies restarted some operations on Tuesday. On Wednesday morning, the Port of Houston said it had returned to normal start times for operations at its eight public terminals.
Refineries and offshore production facilities saw limited storm damage and have largely returned to normal operations, easing concerns of a supply disruption.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said he was not yet ready to declare inflation beaten, but felt the US remained on a path to stable prices and continued low unemployment.
Investors are betting on interest rate cuts for September, which could boost economic growth and oil demand.
Geopolitical risk did little to move prices, analysts said, with investors somewhat fatigued over discussions about a ceasefire in Gaza and the war in Ukraine, said Tim Snyder, an economist at Matador Economics.
“We see news stories out there that are having little impact on the market, which means the market is discounting those,” he added.
In the Middle East, Hezbollah chief Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah said that if Hamas reached a Gaza ceasefire deal with Israel, Hezbollah would stop its operations with no need for separate talks. The group began firing at Israeli targets on the border in support of Palestinians after its ally Hamas launched the October 7 attack on Israel that precipitated the war in Gaza. (Reuters)
At NATO summit, allies move to counter Russia, bolster Ukraine
The United States will start deploying longer-range missiles in Germany in 2026, the two countries announced at a meeting of the NATO alliance on Tuesday, a major step aimed at countering what the allies say is a growing threat Russia poses to Europe.
The decision will send Germany the most potent US weapons to be based on the European continent since the Cold War, in a clear warning to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
A US-German statement said the “episodic deployments” were in preparation for longer-term stationing in Europe of capabilities that would include SM-6, Tomahawk and developmental hypersonic weapons with greater range.
The move would have been banned under the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty signed by the US and the Soviet Union in 1987, but that collapsed in 2019.
“We cannot discount
the possibility of an attack against allies’ sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the allies said in a communiqué released on Wednesday.
More aid was headed to Ukraine as the allies bolster Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.
A communiqué said the allies intend to provide Ukraine with at least 40 billion euros (US$43.28 billion) in military aid within the next year, but stopped short of the multi-year commitment NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg had sought.
The document also strengthened past NATO language on China, calling it a “decisive enabler” of Russia’s war effort in Ukraine and saying Beijing continues to pose systemic challenges to Euro-Atlantic security.
Stoltenberg told reporters it was the first time the 32 allies had jointly labelled China a decisive enabler of Russia’s war and called it an important message. (Excerpt from Reuters)
backlog of 1150 truckloads of humanitarian aid is waiting to be collected from the Palestinian side of the Kerem Shalom crossing in the southern Gaza Strip, Israel said on Wednesday, prompting the United Nations to say: “We’re doing what we can.”
COGAT, an Israeli Defence Ministry agency tasked with coordinating aid deliveries into Palestinian territories, said another 50 aid trucks are also awaiting collecting from the Palestinian side of the Erez crossing in northern Gaza.
The United Nations said it is struggling to distribute aid within the enclave of 2.3 million persons as the war between Israel and Palestinian militants Hamas enters its 10th month and law and order has broken down.
“Yes, the aid is being dropped off. But on the other side of that you have utter lawlessness, plus you have continuing conflict,” said UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric. “We are continuing to do our best to get that to those people who need it. Our colleagues in Gaza are not sitting on their hands.”
He said that the UN trucks that manage to pick up aid “are doing it often at great cost, because they
are being either looted or attacked by criminal elements”, adding that: “Some aid is getting through, but very little.”
The United Nations has long complained of dangers and obstacles to getting aid into Gaza – Israel inspects and approves all aid trucks – and distributing it within the enclave, where a global hunger monitor last month said there is a high risk of famine.
The top UN aid official for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Muhannad
Hadi, briefed UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday – a day after visiting Gaza – Dujarric said. Hadi entered and exited through the Kerem Shalom crossing.
“He saw groups of men with sticks waiting for trucks to leave the Kerem Shalom crossing into Gaza.
All the trucks that he passed were badly damaged, with broken windshields, mirrors and hoods,” Dujarric told reporters.
In northern Gaza, WFP said military activity was limiting its operations.
Israeli forces continued to press their offensive in north and central Gaza on
Wednesday, dropping leaflets urging the evacuation of Gaza City.
Meanwhile, an Israeli missile slammed into a tent encampment in southern Gaza on Tuesday just as displaced people had gathered there to watch a football match at a school, eyewitnesses said on Wednesday. At least 29 persons, mostly women and children, were killed in the strike, according to Palestinian officials, which took place as spectators crowded the school grounds in Abassan east of Khan Younis and hawkers sold smoothies and biscuits.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
Biden allies Pelosi, Clooney raise fresh doubts about his re-election chances France’s Macron, breaking post-vote silence, urges mainstream coalition
US President Joe Biden faced fresh doubts on Wednesday about his re-election chances from two heavyweights who may influence other Democratic lawmakers and financial donors: Nancy Pelosi and George Clooney.
Biden must decide quickly whether to stay in the 2024 White House race, former House Speaker Pelosi, a longtime Biden ally, said on MSNBC while declining to say definitively that she wanted him to run.
Hollywood star Clooney, a Democrat who co-hosted a fundraiser for Biden last month, withdrew his support with a damning opinion piece in the New York Times saying that Biden was not the same man he was in 2020.
Pelosi’s remarks, which ignored Biden’s repeated insistence that he is staying in the race, suggested he could face a fresh wave of calls from fellow Democrats to exit the race.
For nearly two weeks the 81-year-old Biden has sought to stem defections by Democratic lawmakers, donors and other allies worried he might lose the November 5 vote to Republican Donald Trump, 78, after Biden’s halting June 27 debate performance.
The President has said again and again that he will be the Democratic candidate and that he believes he can beat Trump. He said he had a bad night at the debate and vowed to stay in the race.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday called on mainstream parties to join forces to form a solid majority in the National Assembly, in his first public comments since Sunday’s snap election delivered parliamentary gridlock.
The vote, which Macron unexpectedly called after losing to the far-right National Rally (RN) in European elections, has plunged France into uncharted waters, with three politically-divergent blocs and no obvious path to forming a government.
In a letter to regional newspapers, the deeply unpopular Macron urged mainstream parties with “republican values” to form a governing coalition and said he hoped to pick a Prime Minister from such a grouping.
“Let us place our hope in the ability of our political leaders to demonstrate sense, harmony and calm
in your interest, and that of the country,” he wrote. “It is in the light of these principles that I will decide on the appointment of the Prime Minister.”
The New Popular Front (NFP), a hastily-assembled alliance of the hard-left France Unbowed party and the Socialist, Green and Communist parties, unexpectedly won the most seats in Sunday’s vote, but not a majority.
Macron’s centrist camp came second and the RN third after third-placed candidates from the left and centre withdrew from the run-off to avoid splitting the anti-RN vote, scuppering the far right’s hopes of winning a majority and forming a government.
It would be customary for Macron to call on the biggest parliamentary group, in this case the left-wing bloc, to form a government, but nothing in the constitution obliges him to do so.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
A man walks next to humanitarian aid destined for the Gaza Strip amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza between Israel and Hamas, at the Kerem Shalom crossing in southern Israel, July 10, 2024 (Reuters/ Amir Cohen photo)
US President Joe Biden flanked by Vice President Kamala Harris (left) and Nancy Pelosi (Saul Loeb/Pool via Reuters file photo)
DAILY HOROSCOPES
(March 21-April 19)
Stop being so hard on yourself. Let the past go and focus on the here and now. Take control of your happiness and set a path that encourages learning or taking up a hobby.
You have what it takes to up your game and finish what you start. Use your imagination, and you'll figure out how to improve your surroundings and lifestyle. Talk to an expert.
SUDOKU
(May 21-June 20) (April 20-May 20)
Reach out to people heading in a similar direction. The information you gather will help you put things in perspective and assist you in making decisions. Shake things up and do what's best for you.
(June 21-July 22)
(July 23-Aug. 22)
(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)
(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)
(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)
Get organized, move things around and make your surroundings functional. Having everything in its place and keeping only what's important to you will ease stress. Make an effort to reach out.
Apply pressure if it will get you on track. Embrace the chance to meet new people and consider different ways to use your skills. Look for moneymaking opportunities and explore what's trending.
Learn, be open to suggestions and participate in talks leading to interesting proposals and possibilities. Partnerships look promising, and taking a unique approach will pay off.
Let your intuition guide you, and you'll gain insight and energy. Be cautious when dealing with professional connections. Someone who can make you look bad will misinterpret your actions.
Call on people with something to offer, and you'll discover alternatives that help you make an intelligent move. Emphasize what you can do, and you'll gain insight into possibilities.
Knowing who you can trust will be important. Use your charm to figure out what others think and plan to do next. Don't share personal information, ideas or concepts prematurely.
(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
You are overdue for a change. Sign up for something that interests you. Socialize, network and challenge yourself, and you'll gain insight into what you want to pursue.
(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)
People and interests that stimulate your mind will prompt you to reconsider what's important to you. Proceed with caution; a change of heart will likely backfire.
Too much of anything will work against you. Look for opportunities within your means, and don't take on too much. Focus on saving money and taking better care of your health and well-being.
CALVIN
India vs Zimbabwe T20I: Game 3 of 5…
–
as fielding makes the difference
Shubman Gill played the classic anchor, Ruturaj Gaikwad was the disruptor at #4, and Washington Sundar proved simple offspin can be sexy. At the end of it all, India took a big step towards winning the five-match T20I series against Zimbabwe with a 23-run win in the third match, to take a 2-1 lead.
Gill scored a 49-ball 66 in opening the batting, and Yashasvi Jaiswal, his partner, slammed 36 from 27 in setting the platform for a 28-ball 49 from Gaikwad that helped India to 182 for 4. Washington then picked up three wickets, including two in his first over, for 15 runs, to quell chances of a Zimbabwe fightback.
Zimbabwe managed to delay the inevitable thanks to a fantastic half-century from Dion Myers, his first in T20Is, and his 77run partnership with Clive Madande.
Gill, Jaiswal reunite at the top
The return of three players from the T20 World Cup-winning squad forced a change in India’s tactics. Jaiswal has been the incumbent opener whenever India have played without Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, and he was slotted back at the top with Gill. As a result, Abhishek Sharma, fresh from his maiden international century in the second T20I, and Gaikwad had to play out of positions at #3
SCOREBOARD
India (20 ovs maximum)
BATTING R
Yashasvi Jaiswal c Bennett b Sikandar Raza 36
Shubman Gill (c) c Sikandar Raza
b Muzarabani 66
Abhishek Sharma c
Marumani b Sikandar Raza 10
Ruturaj Gaikwad c Madhevere
b Muzarabani 49
Sanju Samson † not out 12
Rinku Singh not out 1
Extras (b 4, lb 1, nb 1, w 2) 8
TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 9.10) 182/4
Did not bat: Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Khaleel Ahmed Fall of wickets: 1-67
(Yashasvi Jaiswal, 8.1 ov), 2-81
(Abhishek Sharma, 10.3 ov), 3-153
(Shubman Gill, 17.5 ov), 4-177
(Ruturaj Gaikwad, 19.4 ov) •
BOWLING O-M-R-W
Brian Bennett 1-0-15-0
Richard Ngarava 4-0-39-0 Tendai Chatara 3-0-30-0
Blessing Muzarabani 4-0-25-2
Sikandar Raza 4-0-24-2
Wellington Masakadza 3-0-25-0
Wessly Madhevere 1-0-19-0
Zimbabwe (T: 183 runs from 20 ovs)
BATTING R Wessly Madhevere c Abhishek Sharma b Avesh Khan 1
Tadiwanashe Marumani c Dube b Ahmed 13
Brian Bennett c Ravi Bishnoi b Avesh Khan 4 Dion Myers not out 65 Sikandar Raza (c) c Singh b Washington Sundar 15
Johnathan Campbell c sub (R Parag) b Washington Sundar 1
Clive Madande † c Singh b Washington Sundar 37
Wellington Masakadza not out 18 Extras (b 1, lb 2, w 2) 5 TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 7.95) 159/6
Did not bat: Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Tendai Chatara Fall of wickets: 1-9
(Wessly Madhevere, 1.1 ov), 2-19
(Tadiwanashe Marumani, 2.4 ov), 3-19
(Brian Bennett, 3.1 ov), 4-37 (Sikandar Raza, 6.2 ov), 5-39 (Johnathan Campbell, 6.6 ov), 6-116
(Clive Madande, 16.3 ov) • BOWLING O-M-R-W Khaleel Ahmed 4-0-15-1 Avesh Khan 4-0-39-2 Ravi Bishnoi 4-0-37-0 Washington Sundar 4-0-15-3 Abhishek Sharma 2-0-23-0 Shivam Dube 2-0-27-0
India go 2-1 up against Zimbabwe
to put Tendai Chatara, and later Richard Ngarava -who replaced Luke Jongwe in the Zimbabwe XI -- off their lengths.
Gill sped up to bring up a 36-ball fifty, his first as India’s T20I captain. But despite a long batting orderWashington was carded in at #8 - India were in danger of finishing with a below-par score when they were 130 for 2 after 16 overs.
and #4. Jaiswal started with two fours and a six in the opening over. Gill did the same in the second over. India were 29 in two overs,
This is when an 18run over from Raza - featuring four byes and a six each from Gill and Gaikwad - lifted them. But the extra bounce on the surface consumed Gill in the 18th, when he looked to loft Muzarabani over the covers but miscued it to Raza who was tracking back. Gaikwad hit a few lusty blows, but fell one short of fifty; and India ended on 182, not below par at all.
Two half-century partnerships - 67 off 50 between Gill and Jaiswal,
and then 49 in four. Blessing Muzarabani then found his length and the pace to bowl on a two-paced surface, and Sikandar Raza’s spin was tough to put away; and from 54 without loss in five overs, India crawled to 67 without loss at the end of eight. Jaiswal brought about his dismissal by miscuing the switch hit to backward point.
Gill anchors, Gaikwad bludgeons Abhishek had a brief stay in the middle, which brought together Gill and Gaikwad in the 11th over. Wessly Madhevere’s only over - the 13th of the innings - allowed India to change gears. Gill first hit the legspinner for a six, before Gaikwad hit him for a six and a four.
Gaikwad regularly used his feet even against pace
and 72 off 44 between Gill and Gaikwad - had taken India there, and Jaiswal, at the innings break, felt it was enough. What aided them were a few missed half-chances, two dropped catches - one each off Jaiswal and Gaikwad - and a plethora of misfields.
Fielding lets Zimbabwe down again
When Chatara failed to get a hand to Jaiswal’s pull in the opening over, little did Zimbabwe know it was a sign of things to come. In the next over, Myers was a bit late in reacting to a top edge from Gill, and the ball landed short of him running in from midwicket. Jaiswal and Gaikwad received reprieves. A few half-chances were missed. The mishaps on the field were mostly regulation efforts, which meant
Shubman Gill scored a 49-ball 66
India raced away to a fast start despite facing 22 dots in the powerplay.
Overall, India were beneficiaries of 31 runs, according to ESPNcricinfo’s ballby-ball data. The eventual win margin was just 23.
Zimbabwe lose their way, and find it again too late
Tadiwanashe Marumani replaced Innocent Kaia, who had a split webbing, at the top of the order, and started enterprisingly. He belted a couple of fours in the opening over, bowled by Khaleel Ahmed - in for Mukesh Kumar - but fell in trying to repeat the dose in his next over.
But Myers and Madande had other plans. India’s decision to accommodate all of their T20 World Cup returnees left them thin on bowling resources. As a result, Abhishek and Shivam Dube had to combine to bowl four
Clive Madande contributed a handy 26-ball 37
overs. Myers and Madande didn’t let them settle, and hit a combined six fours and two sixes off them. Those four overs cost India 50. Thanks to the early inroads, it did not cost them on the day. (ESPNCricinfo)
From the other end, Avesh Khan first dismissed Madhevere, who patted one to short cover, and then Brian Bennett, thanks to a spectacular flying catch from Ravi Bishnoi at backward point. When Raza swung across the line to hole out to deep square-leg off Washington’s second ball, the writing seemed to be on the wall. It got better for India - and worse for Zimbabwe - when substitute fielder Riyan Parag took a sharp catch at slip to dismiss Johnathan Campbell four balls later off Washington.
Ravi Bishnoi was mobbed after pulling off a stunning catch at point
Dion Myers hit an unbeaten 65 to lead Zimbabwe’s fight
Street football action continues tomorrow
Following a massive turnout for the opening night, which consisted of the Round of 16 fixtures, the quarterfinal round in the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ West/East Bank Demerara Championship will commence tomorrow at the Pouderoyen Tarmac.
In the first quarterfinal fixture, to be played at 20:00hrs, Pouderoyen Brothers will lock horns with Jetty Gunners, while the second encounter, at 21:00hrs, will pit ESPN against Team Family. In the third fixture, Showstoppers will lock horns with Westside Ballers from 22:00hrs, while the final fixture of the evening would witness defending
champions Ballerz Empire battling Epic Touch Family at 23:00hrs.
Tournament
Coordinator Travis ‘Zoti’ Bess has said, “Last Friday (night’s) turnout was the biggest so far for a first night in the West/East Bank Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ football tournament, and I’m hoping that more fans come out this Friday night to support their respective teams/villages in the quarterfinals. So far, the quality of some teams has improved from last year. For example, the Pouderoyen Brothers beat Up Like-7 by a 5-1 score, and will be making their first appearance in the quarterfinals of the tournament,
A glimpse of what to expect when play continues in the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ West/East Bank Demerara Championship
which can only boost their confidence going forward.”
He further said, “My
expectation, going forward, is not only to have a large turnout, but to also
see top-level football from the teams /villages that remain in the tournament.
We are looking to have the exhibition games start like 7:30pm and…be played for 20 minutes (10 minutes per half).
“Then we will go into the quarterfinal matches, which will be played for 20 minutes a half (40 minutes) per match. If scores are level, we go to extra time of 5 minutes a half (10 minutes).”
Friday’s Fixtures:
19:00hrs: Exhibition Game
19:30hrs: Exhibition Game
20:00hrs: Pouderoyen Brothers vs Jetty Ballers
21:00hrs: ESPN vs Team Family
22:00hrs: Showstoppers vs Westside Ballers
23:00hrs: Ballerz Empire vs Epic Touch Family
G-Boats backs YBG with sponsorship
Action in the 2024 Guyana Cricket Board’s (GCB) InterCounty Under-17 50-Over tournament bowls off today, Thursday July 11, with a highly competitive battle between Demerara and Berbice being played at the Everest Cricket Club (ECC) Ground in Georgetown.
County boards released their squads this past week, and a number of national youth players and a few new faces are looking to establish themselves for national selection.
Such players as Parmeshwar Ram, Justin Doobay, Bhomesh Lall, Vikash Wilkinson, Dave Mohabir and Adrian Hetmyer, among other future stars, would be looking to represent their respective county teams, with the winner being crowned U17 champs.
Round 1 today would feature Berbice playing Demerara at Everest. It continues on Friday with Essequibo battling the Select XI at Queen’s College Ground.
Round 2 on Saturday
features Essequibo and Demerara playing on QC Ground, while Berbice battle the Select XI at Lusignan Ground.
The third round on Monday kicks off with an encounter between Berbice and Essequibo at Everest Ground, and Demerara coming up against the Select XI at Lusignan.
Berbice U17 team: Rampersaud Ramnauth (V/C), Vishal Williams, Razam Koobeer, Afraz Ali Budhoo (Captain), Adrian Hetmyer, Romesh Bharrat, Romario Ramdehol, Justin Doobay, Tulsiram Ramcharran, Thierry Henry (W/K), Micah Amsterdam, Okazi Boyce, Devon Wharton and Zamuel Felix
Manager: Floyd Benjamin, Coach: Leslie Solomon
Demerara U17 team: Parmeshwar Ram (Captain), Vikash Wilkinson (VC), Marcel Nandu, Arvin Sukanand, Munesh Outar, Shamar Apple, Arun Gainda, Udesh Seetaram, Johnathan Mentore, Dhanesh Persaud, Dave
Mohabir, Patrice Fraser, Saif Ragbeer, Emmanuel Fraser, Joshua Kissundial.
Coach: Quasen Nedd, Manager: Avishkar Ramgobin
Essequibo U17 team: Francis Gurahoo, Renaldo Jeffery, Justin Dowlin, Bhomesh Lall, Jathniel Nurse, Govin Persaud, Navindra Sankar, Eron Benjamin, Travil Evans, Aston Simmons, Andres Fraser, Darwin Joseph, Nicholas Lovell, Shazim Mohamed, Harold Demattos
Coach: Parmesh Persaud, Manager: Terry Newton
GCB Select XI: Navin Boodwah, Deonarine Dindyal (ViceCaptain), Shoaib Gaffoor, Zandon Rose, Romario Bholo, Sohail Mohamed, Arif Khan (Captain), Shahid Hanif, Jayden Dowlin, Adil Ali, Mervin Forde, Suresh Sugrim, Dennis Crossman, Darius Pearson, Zaheer Ramkissoon.
Coach: Ameer Rahaman, Manager: Avishkar Ramgobin
With the aim of aiding the development of basketball in Guyana, G-Boats has given Youth Basketball Guyana (YBG)
$1 million sponsorship geared towards hosting of consistent basketball tournaments.
G-Boats handed over this sponsorship to the YBG on Tuesday at the National Gymnasium.
Thus far in 2024, G-Boats has been one of the key sponsors of basketball in Guyana, having sponsored the Inaugural One Guyana Basketball League, The GABA U-23 Championship, and The National School Basketball Festival.
G-Boats Business Development Director Daniel LaFont, while speaking to media operatives at the handing over of the sponsorship expounded on the importance of sports among youths and the G-Boats aim in making this investment in basketball. La Font said, “We always felt that back home, sports is a great way for young men and young women to learn things about life’s responsibility, how to be corporate citizens. We find that a lot of kids that get into trouble…if they involve (themselves) in sports,
they are not going to be in trouble like some kids are, because they learn responsibility: learn to do schedules, how to be on time, follow rules, and all those things make better men and young women. So, we have all felt that strongly, and when we came to Guyana, we notice that there wasn’t a whole lot of support for basketball.
“Back home with US family, big supporters of basketball, high school basketball in States back home, and all of our owners played basketball at different levels, and we felt like this was just a great organization to invest in the youth of Guyana. And not only to teach basketball, but to also let them know that industry in Oil and Gas that exist for them that didn’t exist before. So, we just feel like this is a good thing to do.”
He said he is happy to see the growth of basketball in Guyana. “We are just impressed to see how this thing (basketball) has grown. Youth Basketball Guyana has done a fantastic job! We are extremely pleased, that is why we have donated to this organization. Very excited to see girls’ basketball coming back, so I would like to see the girls have that opportunity, and we have seen more
interest in basketball courts like these clinics here, and that has been very exciting to see how well the money is being used to develop the youth of Guyana,” Daniel LaFont expressed
G-Boats is a specialized company that provides technical support, instrumentation and equipment for everything encompassing the industrial production of gas and oil.
Arif Khan will lead the GCB Select XI Parmeshwar Ram will captain the Demerara U17s
G-Boats Representative handing over the additional sponsorship to Youth Basketball Representatives (left)
Richards-Botham Test Series 2024: Test 1 of 3…
Gus Atkinson upstages Anderson with seven-for as England dominate Windies
They came for James Anderson but they got Gus Atkinson. The first Test of England’s summer at Lord’s was meant to be a farewell for their greatest-ever seam bowler, but West Indies’ batters rolled out the red carpet for a debutant instead: they collapsed from 88 for 3 to 121 all out, with Atkinson taking remarkable figures of 7 for 45.
Atkinson took two wickets in his first 14 balls on the first morning, but it was his second spell that sent West Indies into a tailspin. He took three wickets in four balls in his ninth over, ripping the heart out of West Indies’ middle order, then took two in three during his 11th. His figures were the second-best by an England bowler on their Test debut, behind only Dominic Cork.
intent, scoring heavily either side of point, and dragging through midwicket and
Da
and Pope combined to good effect after
Anderson, playing his 188th and final Test, bowled
After his first five-over spell, he had figures of 2 for 2, with four maidens and a single scoring shot. Alick Athanaze and Kavem Hodge, the Dominican batters, added 44 in a partnership that spanned the lunch interval. But when Athanaze steered a low catch to Root at first slip, it sparked a dramatic slide: Jason Holder, playing his first Test in a year, was squared up first-ball, and caught in the slips, before Da Silva’s inside edge gave Smith his first Test dismissal.
Hodge saw three wickets fall in four balls while standing at the non-striker’s end, and decided it was up to him to drag West Indies to a respectable total. He lay into a cut when Chris Woakes offered him some width, and the ball flew straight off the middle of his bat, only for Ollie Pope to take a spectacular diving catch in tight at point. Hodge threw his head back in disbelief.
overs after declaring himself fully fit, having skipped the T20 World Cup to continue his rehabilitation from a knee injury. He removed Mikyle Louis, who played brightly on debut, thanks to an excellent diving catch from Brook at second slip.
Louis, who became the first man from St Kitts to play Test cricket for West Indies, was handed his cap by Sir Vivian Richards, and played with a confidence that belied the fact this was only his eighth first-class appearance. He hit consecutive boundaries in Anderson’s first over, which cost nine runs, and his 27 made him West Indies’ top-scorer.
er was projected to miss leg, while Holder convinced Brathwaite into reviewing a not-out decision off Crawley, which was upheld. He did eventually trap an overbalancing Pope in front for 57, ending a second-wicket partnership worth 94 runs shortly after England had nudged into the lead. It was Pope’s first 50-plus score in a Test since his 196 against India in Hyderabad, and only his second against a red-ball in this English summer.
Shamar Joseph, playing a first-class match for the first time since spearheading West Indies’ famous win at the Gabba,
Both Crawley and Pope had surpassed him when the umpires took the players off for bad light in the evening session. Holder thought he had them trapped lbw, but the Decision Review System saved both: Pope was given out, but the inswing-
bowled nine wicketless overs and suffered from cramps. His namesake Alzarri, who has also spent the last six months playing T20, was short on rhythm and consistency. He bowled three noballs and leaked 6.6 runs per over. (ESPNCricinfo)
square leg when West Indies dropped short.
Joshua
Silva. Crawley
a bad-light stoppage, scoring at nearly five runs per
James Anderson walked out to open the bowling in a Test for one last time
Sir Vivian Richards presenting Mikyle Louis with his maiden Test cap
Ollie Pope got going with quick runs
Jayden Seales celebrating after yorking Zak Crawley
