Guyana Times - Thursday, May 02, 2024.pdf

The 36-megawatt (MW) power ship has arrived in Guyana. Guyana Power and Light (GPL) has

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, May 2 – no retraction and Friday, May 3 – 00:30h-02:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Thursday, May 2 –11:20h-12:50h and Friday, May 3 – 12:35h-14:05h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Winds: East North-Easterly to Easterly between 2.68

Govt examining “innovative ways” to ensure more money in pockets of working class – Pres Ali

As Guyana continues to develop at an unprecedented rate, President Dr Irfaan Ali has assured that his Government is working to find innovative ways of ensuring more disposable income is placed in the pockets of all workers in both the public and private sectors.

“We have to find more innovative ways in which we’ll ensure that our farmers can be supported, the productive sector can be supported and as I speak to you, the Government I lead, we are examining those innovative ways to ensure that more money remains in the pockets of the workers, especially the working class,” President Ali said while addressing the gathering at a Labour Day Brunch he hosted on the lawns of State House on Wednesday. The event was held in commemoration of International Labour Day, observed annually on May 1.

His remarks come on the heels of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration already adjusting the salary scales for several categories of public sector workers, including those in the healthcare and law enforcement sectors as well as teachers.

The Head of State noted that Guyana’s “diverse and multifaceted” workforce is at the heart of the resilience of Guyana and as the ‘2030 and Beyond’ era approaches, they would benefit not only from the best welfare package in the Region, but also as the most advanced, educated and skilled population in this region.

This will be as a result of the education revolution

suffering.

Today, with the hard work and commitment of the Guyanese workers, the local economy has generated

Day 2024 than a united, strong, resilient and sustainable Guyana, and we will have it no other way… And at the heart of that re-

more than 65,000 jobs in the past three-and-a-half years – already exceeding the PPP/ C’s 2020 Manifesto promise of creating 50,000 jobs within its five-year term.

The Guyanese Leader went on to emphasise that the most critical part of his Government’s transformative agenda, is to improve the standard of living for

silience is the workers of our country,” he stated.

According to the President, his Government prioritises pragmatic policies over ideology, aiming to enact tangible social change, as he highlighted the slew of positive outcomes owing to the Government’s plans.

“We don’t practice ideology and philosophy; we imple-

that the Ali-led Government has started, which is not only giving those who can get into university a chance but also those who never got the opportunity to get into secondary school a second chance, so that in a huge upward momentum, all Guyanese will progress together.

President Ali disclosed that when his Administration took office less than four years ago, the country had lost 50,000 jobs and the economy was in a state of disrepair with most of the traditional industries

the poor, vulnerable, and oppressed.

Investments in facilities and the necessary tools are underway to enhance the productivity and earnings of the working class.

“The philosophy that we pursue in building the working class in our country and creating opportunity for the working class in our country is one that is fair and just, one that is equitable and one that seeks to bring the balance among all the balance. There is no other way as we move forward from Labour

ment measures and policies that give life and meaning to societal change. We practice a proper differential approach to growth and development,” President Ali underscored.

He further noted that he sees beyond organisational divisions, recognising the shared Guyanese identity and the collective pursuit of prosperity.

Shifting his focus towards those who aim to create divisions, President Ali urged them to acknowledge the truth and facts. He invited them to join hands under the One Guyana umbrella and contribute to national unity.

“My friends, let us recommit to this task, that has eluded us many times before us…The time is now for the ordinary workers, the time is now for the collective Guyanese spirit to rise, rise as Guyanese, rise as citizens of Guyana, rise as a product of this beautiful country, rise with the future of your children and grandchildren before you, rise in this tide of unity,” the Head of State encouraged.

President Ali then reaffirmed his administration’s trustworthiness, highlighting tangible progress achieved in under three years, including the fulfilment of almost all of its 2020-2025 manifesto commitments.

Labour Day is a day to recognise the contributions, dedication and fight for fair treatment for all workers. It is also a day to honour the efforts and achievements of workers and the labour movement.

The Guyanese Leader serving invitees, mainly members of the workforce, at his Labour Day Brunch

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo with some of the attendees at the President’s Labour Day Brunch at State House

President Dr Irfaan Ali addressing the gathering at his Labour Day Brunch at State House on Wednesday

Editor: Tusika Martin

News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761

Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707

Mailing address: Queens

Atlantic Industrial Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown

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

The Media and AI

There has been a rising tide of apprehension, coming from experts in the field, about the dangers that may lie ahead for humanity from developments in Artificial Intelligence (AI). Last year, Geoffrey Hinton, a pioneer called the “Godfather of artificial intelligence” (AI) and a long-time leader of Google’s AI Research Division, resigned from his position at the tech giant, citing growing concerns about the ethical implications of the technology he helped create. We have long passed the “Turing test” for determining whether a machine can demonstrate human intelligence: If a machine can engage in a conversation with a human without being detected as a machine, it has demonstrated human intelligence.

The concern expressed by 1000 experts, who signed an open letter last month calling for a six-month moratorium on the training of AI systems more powerful than GPT4, the newest model released by OpenAI in March, is that: “AI systems with human-competitive intelligence can pose profound risks to society and humanity, as shown by extensive research and acknowledged by top AI labs.” But the utilisation of AI is proceeding apace, and in fact has invaded the field of journalism and the media in general.

Back in 2018, China’s Xinhua News Agency launched the world’s first AI-run news anchor, featuring a computergenerated male figure that realistically delivers the news in a startlingly lifelike manner. In 2023, as Xinhua debuted a female anchor, Russia’s Svoye TV did the same with Snezzhana Tumanova as their first IA weather presenter, and India’s “India Today” unveiled Sana, a female bot who presents news updates several times daily on their Aaj Tak news channel. She has a realistic human-like appearance and is fed data that it reads in synchronized lip movements using text-to-speech technology. The media group described her without any irony as “bright, gorgeous, ageless, tireless”, and most viewers seem to agree. In March 2023, the world’s first completely AI-generated news content for an internet newspaper went live as NewsGPT. Very few readers can detect that there was no human input.

This, of course, raises the question of the future of journalism. Just as the attack on social media from its consumers might have tapered off, comes this new challenge, not necessarily for the news companies per se, but for its employees. Some believe that the bots might be able to compose and deliver news bulletins in writing or verbally, but may falter when it comes to face-to-face interactions with guests or reporters in the field. But from the interactions with ChatGPT, which is available to even novice computer users, these news bots have long passed that test.

At the base of AI’s operations, however, are the algorithms through which it was programmed. But in being composed of neural networks that simulate the human brain, the scientists who are in trepidation of AI’s development are fearful about its self-learning capabilities. For instance, in journalism, there is the potential for generating fake news from so many bot sources that consumers would be even more challenged to detect the real from the fake news. This could be directly utilised by political campaigns to influence voting patterns.

As one Indian commentator advises, “Technology problems are not solved by more technology, but by laws and codes — by regulation. The question of intellectual property is deep: why is it normal for an acolyte to train with a master, but a violation for an AI to be trained on (the musician) Drake’s music? But the question of deep fake news —fiction written by machines for electoral advantage —assumes urgency as national elections near in the US and India. Since free speech absolutism has become widely accepted, it may be difficult to step back to when it was agreed that liars deserve to be penalised, not merely exposed, for the greatest good of the greatest number —including the liars themselves.”

These should be concerns about Guyana’s 2025 elections, and not only from domestic players.

Seafarers pay the price for the murky business of ship nationality

By Jacqueline Smith

On April 13, the naval forces of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps seized a Portugueseflagged container ship, the MSC Aries, in the Strait of Hormuz and detained its crew. The vessel is operated by Swissbased Mediterranean Shipping Company, which is leasing it from London-headquartered Zodiac Maritime, owned by Israeli billionaire Eyal Ofer. The 25 crew members are citizens of the Philippines, Pakistan, India, Estonia and Russia.

The incident was the latest escalation of tensions in waterways around the Middle East. Over the past few months, the Houthis of Yemen have been attacking ships they deem to be linked to Israel and its allies.

On March 6, one such attack killed three seafarers on the True Confidence ship. Two of them were nationals of the Philippines and the third was Vietnamese; the rest of the crew, who are from the Philippines, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Nepal and India, were saved by an Indian naval ship. The Houthis claimed True Confidence was an “American ship”, but the vessel is Barbados-flagged, owned by a Liberia-registered company and operated by a Greek one.

These incidents illustrate how vulnerable seafarers can be due to unsafe waterways, but also due to the lack of global regulation on the shipping industry. The reason why so many different jurisdictions are involved in a single vessel is because the current rules allow shipping companies and operators to register in different countries and hire crew of any nationality.

Naturally, many companies choose jurisdictions which offer few labour and tax regulations, and therefore little responsibility for the wellbeing and safety of crews on board ships registered with their flags. Companies also hire crew from countries where well-paid jobs aren’t easy to find, which can mean seafarers are more reluctant to speak out for fear of losing their income.

This practice, which is called “flags of convenience”, began in the United States in the 1920s when the government banned the production, transportation

and sale of alcohol, pushing some ship owners to register their vessels in Panama to avoid these restrictions.

After prohibition was lifted, this practice persisted, as American shipping companies realised its benefits of lax regulation. In 1948, the former US Secretary of State Edward Stettinius worked with the Liberian Government to open its registry as a joint venture. To this day, the Liberian Registry is operated out of Virginia, US.

My organisation, the International Transport Workers’ Federation, started its campaign against flags of convenience in 1948, in response to the establishment of the Liberian Register – since it had so few restrictions for shipowners.

The shipping industry is reaping the benefits from the ease of low-cost, low-bureaucracy services provided by “rent-a-flag” states. This means minimal regulation, cheap registration fees, low or no taxes, and freedom to employ cheap labour on the global labour market. We call them flags of convenience because it is convenient for ship owners that there is no genuine link between that flag and the owners of the ship. This takes place despite the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea stating that a “genuine link” must exist.

The heart of the problem for seafarers is that ship owners select flag states they know will take little or no interest in enforcing labour protection standards. It’s a huge money-making operation. Ship owners pay to register their ships with their chosen flag registries. In turn, it’s bad business for registries to demand rigorous safety and welfare standards, as these eat into profits.

For seafarers, this can mean very low wages, poor on-board conditions, inadequate food and clean drinking water, and long periods of work without proper rest.

As an international trade union federation, we work tirelessly alongside our affiliates to advance and uphold transport workers’ rights through collective bargaining and strengthening international and national regulation.

Our global inspectorate of more than 130 dedicated inspec-

tors – many of whom are former seafarers themselves – check ships calling into more than 120 ports across 59 countries to ensure the seafarers have decent pay, working and living conditions. And yet, abusive practices persist. We receive distress calls from seafarers on a daily basis, and we see, time and time again, the rotten core of the shipping industry.

We have heard countless stories of seafarers being abandoned, unpaid for months or even years, and their rights abused with complete impunity.

Just last week, we heard from a distressed Indian crew member still stranded: “My salary hasn’t been paid for more than three months – but there are some crew members unpaid for as long as seven months. The company did not supply provisions and fresh water – sometimes we were just fishing for survival. All crew members are getting depressed, and our families are getting into debt to survive.

“Until now I didn’t receive any salary (for five months), and I would like to inform you we have shortages of food and fuel all the time, we are suffering all the time… Please, I need your support,” an Indonesian seafarer told us last month.

Many seafarers are struggling due to wage theft and underpayment. The minimum wage for seafarers on flag of convenience ships covered by collective agreements is about $1,700 a month. Seafarers on flags of convenience ships without a collective agreement sometimes sail for $400 to $600. It doesn’t bear to think about the hourly wage this equates to. And even with such low pay, companies still regularly delay or withhold salaries.

Last year, ITF Inspectors recovered more than $54m in unpaid wages stolen from the seafarers by ship owners operating predominantly under flags of convenience. We recover them through routine inspections that examine wage accounts and employment contracts – where it’s all too common to find discrepancies. Most ship owners will honour crew contracts when pushed – but we can, if need be, coordinate with port state control and dockers’ unions to ensure that

ships cannot sail until seafarers are paid.

What we are seeing play out on the Red Sea exposes how the flags of convenience system can even mean seafarers risk their lives by sailing through unsafe areas – without the power to push back. Who will come to the rescue to protect crew on Panamanian, Liberian and Marshall Islands ships?

One Filipino seafarer told us: “Our company is still transiting the Red Sea even if it’s too dangerous. We just passed (sic) the Red Sea …(and) during that time, we heard a lot of vessels asking for assistance on a warship that they’re being attacked… People here are so worried… We cannot sleep very well thinking of our lives.”

Reports have shown that diverting from the Red Sea has led to greater profits for some in the shipping industry. This is due to higher costs associated with longer routes, and, as a result, an increased shipping demand because fewer ships are available. Yet we are still seeing companies willing to continue risking seafarers’ lives.

To suggest it’s just the way business is done is disingenuous. It is a choice.

This can only change if there is more transparency in the shipping industry and – as international law stipulates – there is a “genuine link” between the real owner of a vessel and the flag the vessel flies. The United Nations and its relevant bodies, the International Maritime Organization and International Labour Organization, must also provide more clarity around what a genuine link entails. Only then can unions and authorities truly hold ship owners and flag states to account.

There will never be a real level playing field as long as flags of convenience can continue to operate on lower standards than traditional national registers. Flag registers should not be allowed to operate as businesses. Until then, seafarers’ rights will continue to be abused with impunity. It’s time to close the jurisdictional vacuum that exists at sea. (Al Jazeera) (Jacqueline Smith is the Maritime Coordinator at the International Transport Workers’ Federation)

Nigerian singer, songwriter and record producer Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, whose stage name is “Burna Boy”, was welcomed at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport in grand Guyanese style when he appeared on Wednesday for his “Unforgettable” concert at the Guyana National Stadium (Guyana Tourism Authority photos)

Stabroek Block

ExxonMobil will work with Govt to identify 20% being relinquished

–

Routledge …says company waiting to examine fiscal terms, blocks on offer in next bid round

The causes of Indian Indentureship O

Between 1838 and 1917, 239,909 Indians were brought as “indentured labourers” for the sugar plantations of British Guiana. The question arises as to why they left their country, when their custom forbade crossing the “Kala Pani” (Black Waters) on pain of “social death”. The short answer is that, for most, it was a choice between life and physical death.

One of the ironies of Indian indentureship was that the conditions that forced them into that option – which even some members of the then British Government dubbed “a new form of slavery” - were man-made; more precisely, British made. The “pull factor” from British Guiana was the planters’ refusal to accept the freed formerly enslaved Africans’ demand for a living wage. This convinced the Africans to decamp the plantations en masse, and thus fulfil the planters’ expectations. But where would wages that could not even attract freed slaves be a “pull factor” for indentureship? Yesterday we learnt of 50,000 newly freed African West Indians voluntarily coming because they did not have the alternative of purchasing abandoned plantations. Wages there and in India were even lower than in British Guiana.

The story of Indian immigration actually begins in 1757, when troops of the British East India Company captured Bengal from the Moguls, and inexorably completed their conquest of the legendarily rich India within 50 years. Less than a decade later, between 1768 and 1771, in Bengal and Eastern Bihar (from where most Guyanese immigrants originated), more than 10 million persons -- one-third of the population -- died from a “famine”. Why? Two reasons. Firstly, the farmers who supplied the bulk of the population with foodstuffs were forced by the British into producing cash crops for export –even while they were forced to pay onerous “lagaan” (taxes) at the threat of death and violence that left them penniless.

Of the food staples produced at the height of the famine, grain merchants exported a record 800,000 tons of wheat and 1.9 million tons of rice. As peasants starved and perished, officials were ordered “to discourage relief works in every possible way”.

British Governor Warren Hastings boasted to the Home Office: “Notwithstanding the loss of at least one-third of the inhabitants of the province, and the consequent decrease of the cultivation, the nett collections of the year 1771 exceeded even those of I768.” Between the Bengal famine of 1768 and the end of Indentureship in 1917, a conservative number of over 54 MILLION Indians perished from other famines.

The cash crops the farmers were forced to grow included cotton, poppy (for opium), and indigo; and, as described above, staples like rice and wheat. This simply sufficed to pay the extortionate British tax demands or lose their lands, which many did. Millions also became jobless when the British forbade Indian weavers from producing cotton yarn and the cotton fabrics that had enthralled Europe. Henceforth, only cotton woven by British looms could be sold in India! Where were unemployed weavers to get the money to buy food, much less clothes?

Incidentally, Britain became the largest drug dealers up to the present, with up to 800 tons of opium shipped to China annually, so that the British could buy Chinese tea.

Even before the start of indentureship, millions of Indians were migrants looking for jobs within India because of Britain’s rape and plunder: British Guiana and other sugar colonies simply provided a vent. It is not a coincidence that Bihar and Uttar Pradesh provided most of our Indentureds, since they were plundered the longest, and still remain the most underdeveloped part of India.

il giant ExxonMobil is expected to relinquish 20 per cent of the lucrative Stabroek Block later this year and according to ExxonMobil Guyana’s President Alistair Routledge, they will work with the government to identify which parts of the block to give up.

Following a oneyear extension last year, ExxonMobil is now expected to relinquish 20 per cent of its Stabroek Block holdings in October of this year. During a press conference on Tuesday, Routledge was asked about this and whether the company has already identified which areas it will give up.

“We have a good idea, but we haven’t finalised that. And obviously we have to work with the government on the calculation of what the 20 per cent represents. And then the identification of the acreage. And then the government confirming that it is aligning with the obligations of the contract.”

“Relinquishment of acreage in the Stabroek Block, that is scheduled to take place in October of this year. And that is when the next prospecting license renewal takes place. And at that point, we will release acreage back to the government,” Routledge further explained.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has said that the relinquished portion of the Stabroek Block is likely to be included in the next bid round, also expected later this year. According to Routledge, the company will wait and see what is on offer, before it makes a decision on participating in the next auction.

“I mean we’ll look forward to that. We’re always interested. We’ll wait and see what is specifically placed into that bid round and what the terms of the bid round are, before we make that decision,” he said.

Relinquishment

The 2016 oil contract for the Stabroek Block, signed between ExxonMobil and the previous A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government, stipulates the relinquishment of 20 per cent of its acreage in the Stabroek block not held by discoveries.

This relinquishment was due last year, but the US oil giant secured a one-year extension, until October 2024, after the force majeure was applied during the COVID-19 pandemic that resulted in lost time. Force majeure is a French legal term meaning the occurrence of circumstances beyond con-

trol, preventing the fulfilment of a contract.

Jagdeo had, since last year, indicated Government’s intention to put the relinquished areas back on the market. He had said the 20 per cent acreage that would be relinquished had already been identified, and that it is nothing material in the oilrich Stabroek Block, which is estimated to have over 11 billion oil-equivalent barrels, and where production activities have been ongoing since December 2019.

Currently, there are three Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels being operated by Exxon and its partners – Hess Corporation and CNOOC – producing ‘light sweet’ crude in the Stabroek Block.

Government has reported that some 142.9 million barrels of oil were produced in 2023 from the Liza Destiny, Liza Unity, and more recently the Prosperity FPSO, which came on stream last November.

These three FPSOs in the Stabroek Block are projected to realise production of over 550,000 barrels of crude oil per day in 2024, with an expected ramp up to over 600,000 daily in the latter part of this year.

Auction

When it comes to the upcoming auction of its oil blocks, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government wants to hold later this year, it first has to complete ongoing process with the bidders from last year’s licensing round.

The bidding round which was launched in December 2022 closed off in September 2023 with six companies bidding on eight of the 14 blocks offshore that were up for grabs. In total, there were 14 offers made on those blocks –two deep-sea blocks and six shallow-area blocks.

Among those awarded oil blocks during the bid round was a Guyanese female-led company, Sispro Inc., which received a shallow block

(S3) and a deep-water block (D2). Other shallow blocks were awarded to: Total Energies EP Guyana BV, in consortium with Qatar Energy International E&P LLC and Petronas E&P Overseas Ventures SDN BHD (Malaysia), which got Block S4; Liberty Petroleum Corporation of the US and Ghana-based Cybele Energy Limited, which got Block S7; and International Group Investment Inc. of Nigeria, which got two blocks – S5 and S10.

Another shallow block, S8, was awarded to the Stabroek Block partners: ExxonMobil Guyana

Limited, Hess New Ventures Exploration Limited, and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited.

The second deep-water block – D1 – was awarded to Delcorp Inc. Guyana, which comprises Watad Energy and Communications Limited and Arabian Drilling Company of Saudi Arabia.

The government has said it wants to see uniformity in the non-fiscal terms of the contracts these oil block awardees will eventually sign, so that all the oil contracts have the same conditions. (G3)

THURSDAY, MAY 2, 2024

06:00 (Sign on) Inspiration Time

06:30 Cartoons

07:00 Evening News (RB) 08:00 Stay Woke 08:30 Guy's Grocery Games 09:30 BBC Travel Show 10:00 Stop Suffering 11:30 Divorce Court

12:00 News Break

12:05 Movie - Inkheart (2008)

14:00 The Loud House S2 E20

14:30 Spongebob Squarepants

15:00 From the Pavilion

16:00 Mighty Med S1 E11

16:30 Kickin' It S1 E16

17:00 The Young & The Restless

18:00 SportsCenter (ESPN)

19:00 The Evening News

20:00 Stop Suffering

20:30 Stand-up Comedy

21:00 Station 19 (ABC)

22:00 Grey's Anatomy (ABC)

23:00 Emily in Paris S1 E7

23:30 Dear White People S3 E4

00:00 Sign off

B y R avi D ev

CSEC MATHS Page Foundation

By William WordsWorth:

of someone else including animals and inanimate objects.

Verse: A single line in a poem. It gives a structure to poetry form.

Here are the most common types of verses:

• Rhymed verse: It's the most common and it usually has a metrical form that rhymes throughout.

• Blank verse: It has no rhyme scheme. However, it has a consistent meter with 10 syllables in each line (pentameter); where, unstressed syllables are followed by stressed ones.

• Free verse: It doesn't follow the rules, and has no rhyme. However, it's still an artistic expression.

Stanza: a set amount of lines in poetry grouped together by their length, meter or rhyme scheme.

Couplet = a two-line stanza.

Tercet = a three-line stanza.

Quatrain = a four-line stanza.

Cinquain = a five-line stanza.w

Sestet = a six-line stanza.

Septet = a seven-line stanza.

Octave = an eight-line stanza.

Line break/space: A gap between stanzas.

Meter: the pattern of stressed syllables (long-sounding) and unstressed syllables (short-sounding) in poetry.

Rhyme scheme: the pattern of rhyme that comes at the end of each line or verse.

Syllable: the single, unbroken sound of a spoken or written word.

Form: Here are the 3 most common types of poems according to form:

• Lyrics poetry: It expresses personal emotions or feelings, typically spoken in the first person.

Narrative poetry: It's a form of poetry that tells a story, often making the voices of a narrator and characters as well.

• Descriptive poetry: It describes the world that surrounds the speaker. It uses elaborate imagery and adjectives.

Mood: Emotions involved in a poem.

Theme: This is what the poem is all about.

(Adapted from penquin.co.uk & juicyenglish.com)

Rhyme scheme:

Demerara Bank reports taxed profit of $2.154B

…announces expansion of services

emerara Bank

DLimited has reported a massive 41 per cent increase of its Profit After Taxation during the 2024 interim period – a testament to its well-crafted and timely execution of key strategies which it plans to further enhance through the expansion of services being offered.

The bank’s interim results for the period ended March 31, 2024, reflects growth in all key banking parameters.

It’s Profit After Taxation increased by 41 per cent to $2.154 billion when compared to $1.524 billion in the corresponding period of 2023. This, according to the bank, indicates a consistent performance and solid growth strategies.

The Loans & Advances portfolio also saw significant growth, moving upwards by 30 per cent to $78.2 billion, while deposits also showed a notable increase of 27 per cent, rising from $122.7 billion to $155.9 billion during the reporting period. The

Bank said this highlights its commitment to supporting and meeting the evolving needs of Guyana's key economic sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, housing, and forestry.

Moreover, Demerara Bank's capital adequacy ratios and liquidity metrics continue to be well above regulatory requirements, pointing to prudent management of its assets and liabilities, while its earnings per share also grew by 41 per cent from $6.77 to $9.57 per share.

Based on the performance for the last six months, the DBL Board of Directors recommended an interim dividend of G$0.60 per share compared to G$0.45 paid last year.

“In a financial landscape that presents both challenges and opportunities, the bank has demonstrated an exceptional ability to adapt and thrive. This robust performance is not accidental but the result of meticulous planning and a forward-thinking approach

that positions the bank favorably for both current and future developments,” a missive from DBL stated.

Service expansion

Along with their impressive interim report, Demerara Bank also announced the upcoming expansion of its ATM network, introducing additional machines at strategic locations to better serve their customers. This initiative is part of their commitment to ensuring convenient and accessible banking services for all.

In addition to enhancing their physical presence, the bank has also unveiled their enhanced Retail E-banking platform. This upgrade represents a significant leap forward in their digital banking offering, providing a more intuitive, secure, and comprehensive online banking experience for all users.

Further, the bank would also be launching new features in partnership with Salesforce, such as remote account opening, applica-

France, Guyana looking to increase cooperation in defence, other areas …as joint working group to begin work this month

Efforts are continuing to forge closer ties between Guyana and Brazil, with the two countries establishing a Joint Working Group that will, among other things, seek to increase collaboration on defence, climate change and other areas.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry on Wednesday explained that President Dr. Irfaan Ali recently met with and held discussions with French Foreign and Europe Minister Stéphane Séjourné.

“Their discussions focused on a Joint Working Group on enhanced cooperation between the two countries. French Ambassador to Guyana and Suriname, Nicolas de Bouillane de Lacoste, advised Guyana’s

Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud that France was ready to begin the work of the Joint Working Group in May,” the statement issued on Wednesday said.

Back in March, Guyana and France had signed a Communique in which they agreed to establish a Joint Working Group to strengthen collaboration in areas such as defence, climate change, food security, infrastructure, technology, and tourism.

The two countries also benefitted from further interactions when the third Guiana Shield Strategic Dialogue got underway in Georgetown on Monday.

The Guiana Shield includes Suriname, French Guiana, Venezuela, parts of Colombia,

tion for loans, payments, etc. before end of 2024.

Only last month, it was reported that DBL would be establishing a regional footprint.

According to the bank’s 2023 Annual Report, a subsidiary of the indigenous Guyanese bank will be established in St. Lucia. The report indicated that the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) has already approved the bank’s establishment on the island.

“The board of directors approved the establishment of a subsidiary in St. Lucia as part of the bank’s broader expansion plans. This coincides with the bank’s strategic plan which includes the expansion of our services and diversification of our business,” the report stated.

During the second Local Content Summit 2024, President Dr. Irfaan Ali spoke of the need for banks

in Guyana to evolve their attitudes and way of thinking as he revealed the indigenous bank that was expanding its footprint.

“The bank has to see itself as a facilitating role in the development and expansion of the economy. And make investments to facilitate the deployment of capital to make use of these opportunities. And to do this, the bank must not only have a local look at things, but a regional look.”

“Now there’s one regional bank that became very successful in and also outside the region, operating in Guyana, by deploying a more reasonable approach. There’s one bank in Guyana now that’s in the process of establishing a regional footprint by going into a different country,” President Ali had said.

Further, the head of state had noted that many regional opportunities are

waiting for not just local businesses, but banks, to tap into. He had stressed the importance of businesses positioning themselves. Satisfactory interim performance Meanwhile, the Chairman of Demerara Bank, Komal Samaroo, has expressed satisfaction with the bank's interim results, attributing the positive outcomes to the institution's prudent management of resources, dedicated workforce and strategic focus.

He thanked the clients of the Bank, the Board of Directors, employees and looks forward to their continued support.

In closing, the Chairman again expressed gratitude Mr. Pravinchandra Dave, who retired in December 2023 and welcomed Mr. Dowlat Parbhu as the succeeding Chief Executive Officer of DBL, effective January 2024.

Brazil and Guyana.

Following the signing of the communique, it had been announced that France will be opening an embassy in Guyana next year. According to the communique, given their desire to forge closer links, the two countries have decided to write a new chapter by France opening an embassy in Georgetown in 2025. France would be the first European Union (EU) country with this level of diplomatic representation in Guyana.

Additionally, France and Guyana have shared a commitment to democratic values and respect for international law and the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states.

Demerara Bank Limited Head Office on Camp Street, Georgetown

French Foreign and Europe Minister Stéphane Séjourné (left), shaking hands with President Dr Irfaan Ali

Cop under close arrest after altercation with Linden businessman

Apoliceman, who was involved in an altercation with a Linden (Upper DemeraraUpper Berbice) businessman on Sunday last is under close arrest and legal advice is being sought from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) on the matter.

On Sunday last, police reported that the businessman was arrested for allegedly assaulting the cop.

According to reports, at about 07:00h on Sunday, police visited the Tropical Reflections Bar located at Five Corner, Mackenzie, Linden, and instructed the Disc Jockey (DJ) to turn off the music but he refused. He was arrested and taken to the Mackenzie Police Station.

At the station there was a confrontation between the officer and the DJ.

Sometime later, the proprietor of the business visited the station to enquire about the DJ and the “disorderly behaviour” arrest allegation.

Police stated that the

businessman was asked to leave the station, and it is alleged that while leaving, he assaulted one of the police ranks, causing other ranks intervene and thus leading to his arrest also.

Both the DJ and businessman were later released on self-bail and instructed to return to Mackenzie Police Station on Monday.

However, a video was posted on social media which showed that there was a heated altercation between the businessman and a police officer. The footage captures a police officer punching and kicking the businessman while he was on the ground.

Upon rising to his feet, the businessman attempted to confront the police officer but was restrained by other officers who intervened to prevent further escalation. In light of this incident, the Guyana Police Force’s Office of Professional Responsibility launched an investigation, and the cop was placed under close arrest. (G9)

France, Guyana looking to increase...

Both countries are fully engaged in peacekeeping initiatives, the communique had said, adding that both countries are keen to strengthen cooperation to ensure the security and stability of the Guiana Shield, and combat organised crime in the region.

The two countries are also engaged in efforts to tackle climate-related issues and protect Amazonia, which is a priority for both countries, given their connection to

the Amazon region. It had been agreed at the meeting that a joint working group would be established to identify priorities to deepen cooperation in the areas of defence, climate change, food security, infrastructure, technology, and tourism.

As part of the ongoing security cooperation, Guyana announced the acquisition of maritime patrol assets from France. This is a further illustration of the commitment of the two sides to strength -

en the bilateral relationship.

A letter of intent was subsequently signed earlier this month, with the aim of procuring the vessel, between the Guyana Government and the leading French aluminum shipbuilding company at the Finance Ministry on Lamaha Street, Georgetown.

Based on that letter, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) will soon acquire an Ocean Patrol Vessel (OPV) 190 valued at EU$39.5

Where…

…is the solidarity?

Written in the early days of trade unionism, some may wonder whatever happened to the sentiments of their battle song – Solidarity Forever: “When the union's inspiration through the workers' blood shall run,/ There can be no power greater anywhere beneath the sun;/ Yet what force on earth is weaker than the feeble strength of one,/ But the union makes us strong./ Solidarity forever, (x3)/ For the union makes us strong”!!

Your Eyewitness knows there’s always gonna be competition between unions as they fight for turf and such like, but hey!! when it comes to extracting more goodies for their members, don’t they accept that solidarity will make them stronger? But, like with everything else in our dear Mudland, politics is what crept into our dear Garden of Trade Unionism!!

Ironically, the trade unions came before politics – and in fact, the former gave birth to the latter!! Clearly, however, you can take politics out of the trade unions, but you can’t take trade unions out of politics!!

FROM PAGE 7

million from OCEA S. A. The inked agreement covered the manufacturing of the vessel, a comprehensive logistics package with spears, and five years of maintenance of the product.

In addition to manufacturing the OPV vessel, OCEA S.A is also actively exploring the possibility of establishing a modern maintenance yard in Georgetown. OCEA S.A. designs and manufactures maritime vessels, as well as patrol boats, passenger, cruise, environmental ships, motor yachts, tank ends, floating pontoons, multihulls, monohulls, and customised aluminum structures. The firm serves customers in France, French Guiana, French Polynesia, Suriname and Guyana.

In August 2023, officials of the French Development Agency (AFD) were in Guyana, and had exploratory discussions with Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, on opportunities for partnerships.

Only in February, the Guyanese and French militaries had agreed to conduct increased joint training, with more units of the local military slated to be engaged. At the time, GDF Colonel General Staff, Kenlloyd Roberts and a team of officers welcomed French Captain (Navy) Laurent Martin and his team for a courtesy call at Defence Headquarters, Base Camp Ayanganna, Thomas Lands, Georgetown. (G3)

And there you have it, folks. Everything was hunky dory back in the day, after old Critchlow founded the BGLU back in 1919 – just four years after “Solidarity Forever” was composed. The sentiments expressed about the workers’ plight in the States would’ve been ten times worse in BG. “Is there aught we hold in common with the greedy parasite,/ Who would lash us into serfdom and would crush us with his might?/ Is there anything left to us but to organize and fight?/For the union makes us strong….”!!

When Jagan returned from America, he joined the MPCA - founded by Ayube Edun in 1937 - and when Burnham returned from England, he joined Critchlow’s BGLU. Politics wasn’t as open then as it is now!! But there you see that the schism that’s still dominating our politics was already there: the MPCA organized the mostly Indian sugar workers, and the BGLU organized the dock workers and other African urban workers!! But what’s also noteworthy is that the founders of the unions were “unlettered” men – Critchlow was a dock worker and Edun was a goldsmith – and the classconscious professionals always felt they could do better.

Well, the two leaders went on to found their explicitly political organizations, but they kept their hands inside the affairs of their stepping stones. The entry of the CIA, in its mission to remove the PPP from office in the 1960s, was the critical factor in the unions becoming openly politicised. They were manipulated by American unions that were in cahoots with the CIA, and formed the initial phalanx that precipitated the Black Friday riots that were the PPPs death knell!! Absolutely nothing’s changed!!

So, those who still hope for solidarity are just pi55ing in the wind!!

…is free speech?

All sorts of platitudes can be – and are! – uttered in a vacuum when it comes to “free speech”, especially by the US, which prides itself at having made the FIRST AMENDMENT to its constitution to protect the value!! It’s made free speech as a bedrock of democracy, and hammered nations from veering from the straight and narrow. Well, right now, America’s been put to the test, as, all across its land - “from sea to shining sea” - on free speech, students at some of its most elite universities - like Columbia and UCLA – along with a host of public universities, have come out in vehement support of the Gaza Palestinians under attack by Israel. Just like in the days of the Vietnam war, they’ve “encamped” on campus lawns and gone on to occupy university buildings. In Columbia – with its famous school of Journalism – its president, who just happens to be Arabic – just called in the police, who arrested some 300 students!!

Free speech stops at criticizing Israel!!

…is the line drawn?

After Muneshwers and Banks DIH’s sidewalk clearance – and what a beautiful sight it is!! – your Eyewitness was astounded to see food vendors - who’d been cleared before, with a mayor throwing himself under a tow truck! – had reappeared!!

The confrontation between the officer and the businessman at the Mackenzie Police Station

Guyana must recognise rapidly evolving work culture – GAWU on reduced hours, days

…renews call for national minimum wage to be on par with public sector

The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) has pointed out that the global movement to reduce working hours and days without compromising conditions or output is gaining momentum – something Guyana cannot afford to ignore as a developing nation.

This is according to GAWU President, Seepaul Narine, during his address at the annual Labour Day Rally held, after the march through the streets of Georgetown, at the National Park Tarmac on Wednesday.

According to Narine, the observance of Workers’ Day is not only a recognition of the progress, triumphs and successes made in the labour movement but also a reflection of the struggles and sacrifices endured by generations of workers especially in the fight for an eight-hour working day.

Even as the progress in improved working conditions is celebrated, the GAWU President stated that the work culture is rapidly evolving and Guyana cannot be ignorant of the new concepts such as reduced working hours and days which is gaining momentum globally.

“This movement is driven by the need for better work-life balance and taking advantage of efficiency and productivity improvements. As a developing nation, Guyana cannot afford to ignore the ongoing debate and must recognise that the world of work is rapidly evolving. We are encouraged to see that re-

ducing working hours has not led to decreased output, and many global players are beginning to embrace this idea. A healthy, happy, and productive working class is essential to our national development, and we must keep up with these international developments,” he stated.

Narine went onto outline that while there has been much progress made to improve working conditions, there are still some struggles that persists that cannot be ignored.

He noted that many workers continue to face challenges in having their rights recognised and upheld, as some employers uphold unfair and unjust employment practices. These realities, the Union Leader stated, mainly affect the ununionised segment of the labour force.

Among some of the issues that these workers face has to do with some persons being promised a certain pay but receive something else or persons not being provided with necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) on the job. Instances are also prevalent of employees’ NIS (National Insurance Scheme) contributions being deducted but not paid over to the Scheme as well as workers not being paid for overtime after working beyond the standard eighthour shift, or others sent home after years of valued and dedicated service without a dollar in severance pay. Nevertheless, GAWU under its umbrella body – the Federation of

Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG), has committed to supporting these workers as well as expanding its reach to cover new labour categories.

“Those workers have no one to turn to, leaving them voiceless and helpless. The GAWU empathises with those comrades and is committed to providing assistance and guidance… On this Labour Day, the GAWU and the FITUG stand in solidarity with workers who face such difficulties. We want you to know there is hope for a brighter tomorrow, but it requires you to take the first step. The Union is your insurance, your friend, and your advocate to right the wrongs and correct the unfairness. The GAWU remains a willing ally and welcomes you with open arms. We have already established branches for Oil and Gas, and Hospitality and Fast-Food workers,” Narine indicated.

Meanwhile, with national development reaching unprecedented levels, the Union Leader outlined that Guyana’s economy will once again record significant growth this year. According to Narine, this growth is fuelling national expenditures to all-time highs as development is taking place in every corner and sector of the country as part of heightened efforts to improve the standard of living.

While these are welcomed as Guyanese anticipate greater progress from the country’s patrimony, GAWU urged that judiciousness and effectiveness be the mantra as investments are advanced.

On this note, Narine highlighted the concerns regarding labour availability in Guyana, noting that in some areas, foreign labour is utilised. However, he stressed that the country must be mindful of the negative experiences of other places in the world.

“We believe we must examine this issue holistically and craft an appropriate strategy to address present and future labour demands,” he stated.

Further, the GAWU President stated that as the country evolves, workers must also change too

and be exposed to new work ethics and skills to take advantage of emerging opportunities and ley to this is the important issue of remuneration.

“We note the efforts of the Government to close gaps in certain areas as they have committed to doing more in the future. These are meaningful interventions which are welcomed by those groups of workers. On this issue, the question of a living wage has emerged, and we reiterate our previous call that the national minimum and public sector minimum

wages be equated as a first step and earnest tripartite efforts be made further to realise a workable framework,” the union leader stated.

Narine added, “…as we celebrate Labour Day 2024, we again extend best wishes to all Guyanese and workers worldwide. Let us continue imbued with a greater sense of purpose, inspired to realise a better tomorrow for future generations. Remember, we have nothing to lose but our chains. Long live GAWU! Long live FITUG! Long live the working class!” (G8)

A section of the gathering at the FITUG rally in the National Park after Wednesday’s Labour Day March in Georgetown

Opposition’s case to remove VP from Parliament “premature” – AG

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Anil Nandlall on Tuesday criticised legal action filed by Opposition Members of Parliament to remove Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo from the National Assembly. Nandlall said the matter needs to first be addressed to the Speaker of the National Assembly and not the judiciary.

“The entire action is precipitous and premature,” he said during his ‘Issues in the News’ programme on Tuesday evening.

Members of the parliamentary opposition, Christopher Jones and Tabitha Sarabo-Halley had approached the High Court in February citing

the Standing Orders of the National Assembly which states that a member’s seat shall be vacated if they are

absent from parliamentary sittings for more than six consecutive sessions within a specified period. The application alleges that Vice President Jagdeo was absent for 11 consecutive sittings from December 11, 2023, to February 1, 2024.

However, Nandlall noted that a motion must be first tabled in the National Assembly to establish the truth. “If a member is absent from Parliament, that is a matter for parliament, the parliament has the register,” he said, adding that the Speaker and Clerk of the National Assembly will determine if the VP was indeed absent from sittings for more than the prescribed number of times.

“You have to determine

the matter in the parliament itself. The court cannot go into parliament to read the register, the court can’t read the rules of the parliament to determine who is sitting and who is absent, that is not the court’s business, that is the speaker’s business,” he emphasised.

According to Chapter XIII of the Standing

Orders of the National Assembly, any member who is prevented from attending a sitting of the National Assembly shall acquaint the Clerk as early as possible of his or her inability to attend.

Further, it notes that if without the leave of the Speaker obtained in writing before the end of the last of the Sittings re -

ferred to in this paragraph, any elected Member is absent from the National Assembly for more than six consecutive sittings occurring during the same Session and within a period of no longer than two calendar months, he or she shall vacate his or her seat in the Assembly under Articles 54 and 156(1) (b) of the Constitution.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

May Day Parade 2024 Remove politics, think of workers first – trade unionist urges

Scores of workers gathered across the city, decked out in their red ensembles, as they marched for betterment as part of Labour Day celebrations in Guyana.

Apart from delving into issues affecting workers, trade unionists used the opportunity to call for unity among the various workers’ unions.

Scenes from the May Day march, led by the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG), a union umbrella organisation comprising several unions including the Guyana Agricultural

and General Workers Union (GAWU). This march commenced at Bank of Guyana and made its way to the National Park for the annual May Day rally.

Trade unions with different views on national issues, falling under the umbrella body of the Guyana Public Service Union, held their separate parade and rally, culminating at the Guyana Teachers’ Union headquarters.

In recent history, it was only during the period 20162019 that all of the trade unions in Guyana presented themselves in unity for Labour Day, with a united

parade and rally.

However, despite the existing tension among unions, unity messages were aplenty, with trade union leaders echoing all too familiar sentiments: the need to combine forces and use one resounding voice to call attention to the desperate need for better recognition, value and honour for the working-class people in society.

Among them was the Guyana Labour Union (GLU) President Carvil Duncan, who expressed hope of seeing a united movement going forward in addressing workers’ is-

sues and upholding workers’ rights.

“I was proposing to speak on unity today because divided we stand together, separated we collapse together and therefore persons must try to remove themselves from parties and politics and think of the interest of the worker first,” Duncan said.

Meanwhile, commenting on the divide, Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton emphasised that much needs to be done so that trade unions have operate in harmony.

According to Norton, the discourse is ancient history

and not recent issues, however, he noted that they can be addressed.

“You know at one stage it was divided, FITUG (the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana) move in its own direction, the Public Service Union (PSU) has its own position. It will take a lot of time and work to bring the trade union movement together, not forgetting that the trade union movement is a reflection of the wider society,” Norton said.

History of May Day

The origins of May Day trace back to the late 19th century when workers worldwide stood united, demanding better working conditions and fair treatment.

In the 1880s, labour movements in the United States advocated for an eight-hour workday, culminating in the infamous Haymarket affair in Chicago, where workers were met with violence as they protested for their rights.

From these tumultuous beginnings, May Day emerged as a symbol of workers’ resilience and de-

termination to secure their rights.

In 1958, Guyana declared May 1 a national holiday, and this was spearheaded by the then Minister of Labour, Janet Jagan. Since that time, workers in Guyana have celebrated this day with marches through the streets of Georgetown and elsewhere, along with rallies addressed mainly by union leaders and other individuals.

However, prior to this, there were many strikes and labour protests against employers. The state generally took the side of the employers and this was clearly seen in the sugar strikes in the 1940s and 1950s and these workers’ struggles in the sugar industry form an epic chapter in the Trade Union history of Guyana.

Though the worker struggles for better wages and working conditions have essentially the same characteristics in all countries, each country has its own peculiar manifestation of such struggles.

For example, Labour Unions united on May 1 2022 for a ‘livable minimum wage’ for the public servants. (G1)

Guyana Labour Union (GLU) President Carvil Duncan

Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton

Scenes from Labour Day 2024

Decrease in robberies, sexual offences in Region 9 – Commander

…issue of prosecution being addressed

Police Commander of Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo), Senior Superintendent Raphael Rose recently provided an update on the criminal activities in the region. He highlighted a notable decline in serious offenses such as armed robbery and sexual assault.

"Region Nine, more so Lethem, you can walk with your jewels, shop free, and leave your vehicle and no one would interfere with your vehicle. We don’t have those serious crimes like larceny from a person, robbery under arms, robbery with violence, and so on… we would receive sexual of-

fences report and that is of concern and we are getting on top of that. So far for the year, we have had a reduction in reports," Commander Rose stated.

Rose shared these positive developments during an update on the region’s status for the first quarter of 2024 on the Guyana Police Force’s Facebook page. Rose attributed this improvement to enhanced training, modernised facilities, and upgraded equipment for law enforcement personnel in the division.

"Region Nine recently benefitted from three new police stations. We have been graced with three new modernised police stations

in the region," Rose announced.

Additionally, he emphasised that officers in the region are vigilant and proactive in maintaining safety, particularly during important events hosted in the area.

"The region is moving forward. Some of the customs are no longer required. They should go by the laws," Rose remarked.

In a previous interview, Commander Rose had said that the issues affecting his district for years ranged from prostitution to arson and traffic violations as well as sexual offenses, which they were seeing an increase.

He explained that sexual offences were mainly committed by family members, and as such, he and his ranks intended to sensitise persons in the villages about these types of crimes.

“If it is the Police’s role to [do] sensitisation? Yes, because we are welfare officers at some stage, and if we can avoid these offences…, then yes, we have that role,” the Commander stated.

He explained that they started working closely with the Welfare and Child Care Protection to curb this issue.

“So, we need more, like the child protection agency more equipped in terms of transportation and areas where they can house victims that have been affected, because, in most cases, the victim has to remain in the same house with the father other than if the Police step in,” Rose said. Meanwhile, while he did not give much detail, the commander revealed that there were several reports of prostitution in the region and these were being addressed.

Police Force gets modern ‘crime scene’ vehicle

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has recently bolstered its crime-solving capabilities with the acquisition of a state-of-the-art crime scene vehicle.

This cutting-edge addition signifies a significant advancement in their efforts to enhance public safety and expedite investigations. The vehicle handover ceremony took place at the Tactical Services Unit, Drill Square, Police Headquarters, Eve Leary on Tuesday.

Before obtaining the modern vehicle, the GPF encountered substantial challenges in processing crime scenes efficiently as transporting delicate forensic equipment, such as blood and DNA samples, and setting up necessary facilities for evidence collection posed considerable difficulties.

This hindered their ability to conduct thorough investigations promptly, often resulting in delays and incomplete data collection, the GPF said.

However, the introduction of the new crime scene vehicle is expected to effectively address these limitations. Equipped with cool stor-

With this advanced capability, the Guyana Police Force said they can now respond to crime scenes with greater speed and accuracy, ensuring that crucial evidence is properly documented and preserved.

“This not only improves the efficiency of crime-solving efforts but also increases the chances of gathering crucial evidence that might otherwise have been overlooked or compromised during transportation”, the Force stated The ceremony was attended by Home Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn; Commissioner

age units, first aid kits, wash sinks, computer workstations, secure lockers, power outlets, solar lighting systems, and tent facilities, the vehicle facilitates comprehensive onsite forensic analysis.

This will enable the force to establish fully functional mobile labs at crime scenes, significantly enhancing their operational capabilities.

of Police Clifton Hicken, Deputy Commissioner 'Of Operations' Ravindradat Budhram, Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum, various stakeholders, several regional commanders, and other senior and junior officers.

Just a few months ago, President Dr. Irfaan Ali had announced that the police force would be improv-

ing its crime-fighting efforts. As such, he said soon the Force will be outfitted with a surveillance chopper. The President explained that the chopper would be utilised to conduct aerial surveillance of the country.

Last year, Hicken during the Force’s 184th Anniversary Awards Ceremony, had announced that the organisation was moving to establish an air wing in order to enhance its capacity.

At the time, he had explained that the air wing will either be established in conjunction with the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) or separately.

Moreover, he revealed that two pilots attached to the police force were sent for advanced training in Miami, USA. Aeronautical engineers were also being trained to complement the pilots for the Force’s air wing.

The GPF is also in the process of developing its marine division. President Ali revealed that landing docks would be established throughout the Demerara River along the East Coast and East Bank.

Meanwhile, in January, at the sod-turning ceremony for the new US$28 million 12-storey Police Headquarters at Brickdam, Georgetown, President Ali had announced plans to enhance the GPF’s defence capabilities, noting that “we’re building out for the first time a marine division that would be capable

of utilising our river assets in crime positioning, crime fighting and proactive intelligence work. So, right now, we are in the process of acquiring state-of-the-art marine assets to support the work of the Guyana Police Force”.

During his presentation

of the 2024 Budget, Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh had revealed that a total of $1 billion has been proposed to be expended this year to expand the Police Force’s land and water fleet.

He said this would include the purchase of additional vehicles, boats, and engines.

Last year, $900 million was expended to advance procurement of additional motorcycles, pick-ups, boats, motor cars, and trucks for the GPF. In totality, $30.3 billion was allotted to the Police Force in Budget 2024.

Co-op officers to benefit from ILO training

As the Guyana Government continues to push for the revitalisation of the Cooperative Movement in Guyana as the third pillar of economic development, preparation for additionally training for relevant officers are ongoing.

The training which will be facilitated by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) aims to re-equip officers with the necessary knowledge and skills to carry out their duties effectively.

This will cover several areas including financial records preparation, AML/ CFT training, report writing, and inspection techniques, among others.

During a recent interview with the National Communications Network, Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton disclosed current management committees are not managing the af-

fairs of the co-op properly, and this deficiency must be addressed.

This, he stated will be accomplished by ensuring every operational co-op functions in a transparent, and accountable manner for the betterment of its members, and as such, the training, will aid in the improvement of quality.

“In the co-op sector there is a lot of work to be done, and a lot of education… So, an ILO specialist will come and conduct training of our officers because they have to be sound to be able to teach cooperativism to the co-op societies,” the Labour Minister said.

While it was not disclosed how many officers from the ministry will participate in the training, Minister Hamilton explained that the initiative will also aid in the placement of more knowledgeable co-op officers in re-

mote areas.

He there urged those who will be engaged to pay keen attention to the information being exchanged since it will play an important role in the Labour Ministry’s mission of ensuring the interest of all co-op members are met.

“Every officer belongs to the region that they are working in…so we have to train people and have them go work in their communities,” he added.

A co-operative society, governed by the Cooperative Societies Act Chapter 88:01, is a voluntary association that starts with the goal of the serving its members. It is a form of business whereby individuals join their hands for promotion of their common goals. It is estimated that there are over 1, 735 Cooperative Societies in Guyana.

The vehicle that was acquired by the Guyana Police Force

Senior Superintendent Raphael Rose

Gas-to-Energy Project

ExxonMobil not responsible for contractor’s delays – Routledge on arbitration case

…2-month shutdown of production to connect pipelines

Oil giant ExxonMobil has made it clear that they were not responsible for the delays that Gas-to-Energy contractor Lindsayca CH4 cited to justify taking the government to arbitration in an effort to claim back over US$90 Million in cost overruns.

Contractor Lindsayca CH4 and the government have been at loggerheads over delays on the gas to energy project the contractor believes it should be compensated for. They have claimed that the delayed handover of ExxonMobil’s portion of the project, caused cost overruns… for which they are seeking over US$90 Million in compensation.

But during a press conference on Tuesday, ExxonMobil Guyana’s President Alistair Routledge was adamant that Exxon fulfilled its end of the bargain. He noted that any delays on Exxon’s end were minimal and did not hinder Lindsayca’s ability to do its work.

“What we call the early enabling works, it was very apparent. For any of these projects, it’s a multi-year effort to implement these kind of major infrastructure projects. And so, in the early days of working out who would execute which portions of work, it was agreed that ExxonMobil on behalf of Stabroek would execute the early enabling work.”

“So, clearing those hundred acres of site at Wales,

Police

Iwhere the plant would be constructed, clearing the ground to bring in the sand in order to stabilise the ground for construction. Building a heavy haul road. Material offloading facility. Improving the access road on the west bank. So, you can drive now all the way down from the river crossing.”

According to Routledge, it was agreed that Exxon would complete those works so that Lindsayca wouldn’t have to. But something went wrong. And according to Routledge, Lindsayca was still delayed despite not having to complete these early works.

He admitted that while there were some delays when it comes to sand barges and other equipment, those were minimal. According to Routledge, these delays did not hamper Lindsayca’s

progress.

“There were some delays in sand barges and other equipment. But those were pretty minimal. And the reality is, our view and the government’s view, that didn’t actually impact the progress of Lindsayca CH4. Their early stage of the project was an engineering design, procurement, that kind of activities.”

“So, it’s not unusual… you mentioned early on with an arbitration case… these sorts of issues will be raised as a way to make a case. But in reality, our view, it didn’t delay access to the site for Lindsayca CH4.”

Delays

The Gas to Energy (GtE) Project is divided into five components: the pipeline from offshore production activities to Wales, the building of power plant and NGL facilities, the transmission

main to move power generated at the power plant, a new control centre at Eccles, East Bank Demerara and upgrading the national power grid.

While the contractors were given the contract to build the two plants, the procurement and installation of the 225-km gas pipeline from the Wales project site to the offshore oil field is being executed by Exxon.

The installation of the US$1 billion pipeline also includes the upgrade of the roads to get to the site at Wales, the Material Offloading Facility (MOF) and site preparation for 100 acres as well as a lay-down yard – all undertaken by Exxon and subcontracted out. The Guyana Shore Base Inc. (GYSBI) and GAICO Construction were the two companies that had delays

in delivering their components of the works.

Based on the contract, the JV contractors are required to deliver 228 MW of power with four gas turbines coming on stream at the end of 2024 at 57 MW each. To get the entire 300 MW, another two steam turbines are expected by the end of 2025. However, there was a delay in the installation of the four turbines. As a result, reports indicate that Lindsayca now wants to complete the gas turbines by August 2025.

Notwithstanding the controversy surrounding timelines, Routledge maintained that Exxon’s work on the Gas to Energy project remains on schedule. This includes the expected shut down of production on Liza Unity and Destiny Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels

between July and August of this year, to facilitate the connection of the pipeline. Each shut down will be for approximately 14 days.

“I know Gas to Energy is always top of mind. We’re certainly very focused on delivering the project. On the pipeline side the offshore portion of the pipeline is 70 per cent complete. We currently have two elements of installation ongoing in the shallow waters and the near to shore.”

“It’s one vessel that’s leading that installation and then there’s another vessel out in the deep water, laying pipelines there. Onshore, we’re also making good progress. We’re at 68 per cent complete onshore. So roughly 70 per cent complete across the entire pipeline,” Routledge further explained. (G3)

equally responsible for escalation of illegal vending in city – Nandlall

llegal vending in the city of Georgetown has been an ongoing problem for decades, with the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) facing backlash over this issue. However, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall said the Guyana Police Force (GPF), tasked with upholding law and order in the country, is equally responsible for the escalation of this issue over the years.

“While the city council has a statutory power and a statutory duty to address these matters and remove these unlawful encumbrances and unlawful vending from the streets and the public reserves within Georgetown, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) also has an overriding objection to ensure that there is law and order,” Nandlall said during his weekly live programme ‘Issues in the News’ on Tuesday evening.

According to the Attorney General, it is illegal to block pavements and public roadways, to block someone’s entrance, to vend without permission and to erect per-

manent structures without permission on public roadways and reserves.

“That is their duty under the Police Act but there has been a combination of neglect both at the city council and the police force for decades, resulting in a monstrous situation of unlawful vending with the resultant chaos, disorder, garbage and unhygienic conditions,” he added.

The AG’s comment came days after the municipality removed vendors from the environs of the Banks DIH’s

Demico House, Stabroek following a Court Order.

Nandlall further pointed out that he is not against vending but the piling up of garbage, stench and other unhygienic conditions around the city cannot be tolerated.

“I am not against vending… I used to be a market vendor, I know about market vending but you cannot squat illegally, you cannot vend illegally, you cannot vend in such an unhygienic and disorderly manner, it

will not be tolerated in a civilised society,” he noted.

Banks DIH had claimed in the court action that the vending situation outside its premises adversely affects business operations. The High Court Judge earlier this month ordered that the City Council remove all materials obstructing the business including stalls, carts and pallets.

Similar court orders were granted in favour of Discount Store on Regent Street, Georgetown, Muneshwers Ltd. on Water Street, and Shamdas Kirpalani located on Regent Street, Georgetown.

Nandlall said he hopes such actions continue to restore the city to an orderly and beautiful place. He refuted claims that

the moves are racially motivated. “Whether you black, red, green or brown, this government will not tolerate squatting,” he said.

The Public Works Ministry has also issued warnings to vendors along the Seawall, Kingston, Georgetown to desist from erecting permanent structures on the government’s reserves.

ExxonMobil Guyana President Alistair Routledge

Model of the Gas to Energy power plant

Street vendors being removed last week by M&CC from outside Demico House following a High Court ruling

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall

Couple jump through window as fire flattens home

...3 homeless

Afire of unknown origin has flattened a two-storey wooden and concrete house located at Fyrish Village, Corentyne, Berbice, leaving three persons homeless.

The incident occurred at around 01:20h on Wednesday.

The owner of the building, 37-year-old Jermaine Benjamin and his wife Veron DeMondonca 32, occupied the upper flat while a 45-year-old labourer occupied by the bottom flat.

she was asleep and her husband is on medication enabling him to sleep well.

“If you don’t wake him up you would have to wait until the tablet work out,” DeMondonca said.

“In my sleep I hear ‘Fire, fire and when I opened my eyes the whole house was in fire and he make one run out straight into the fire because like he get confused,” she continued.

According to DeMondonca,

Reports are that during the wee hours on Wednesday, the couple was awakened by the scent of smoke. They were forced to jump through the window to save their lives, as fire was seen in the building trapping them inside. Both were injured suffering severe burns.

According to the woman, who is now hospitalised, she and her husband used the bedroom window to exit the building landing on a lower roof before making another leap to the ground.

Both received burns and got assistance from a neighbour to get to the hospital.

Forensic fire investigators have since said that the

fire started is in the vicinity of where a gas bottle was stored in the upper flat of the building. DeMondonca said she was

4 homeless after unattended stove goes up in flames

Amother and her three children are now homeless after their Number 60 Village, Corentyne, Berbice home went up in flames.

The woman had to be thrown through a window after being trapped in the burning building and passed out.

Hemwattie Brijbhukan was asleep and her children ages four, seven and 11 were at school on Tuesday afternoon when the fire started.

The unemployed single mother had been living in the two-bedroom upper flat house for the past seven years.

She said she had taken medication and felt drowsy but still attempted to cook.

“Me get up by 1 O’clock and put on the rice pot and I starting drowsy because I had drink the B co. I went back to sleep and like the stove catch afire because the pot overheat.”

The woman said it was

children, who

two of her cousins saved her after breaking in from a back window of the house.

“They dash me out and two other persons catch me but I don’t know is who be-

cause the smoke had stifled me... They carried me over by my mother’s house an told me what happened.”

“When I wake up in the house I was not seeking any

The aftermath of the fire fire, it was black smoke because we have plenty things in the house and three thick mattress, that is what caused the smoke so much. I couldn’t out it because it was already big, reaching the rooftop already,” she explained.

The single mother, who survives on the money her

husband pays for the maintenance of his children through the court, said she has lost everything she had which includes a washing machine, appliances, clothing and jewellery.

“My next move if I get anybody to help me to get back a house or even things for the kids, I will appreciate that.”

She can be contacted by telephone number (592) 6150347. (G4)

The plot of land Brijbhukan lived on is unregularised. Nevertheless, the woman is seeking the public’s assistance.

Decomposed body found at Hope Beach identified

The badly decomposed body of the man who washed up at Hope Beach on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) on Sunday has been positively identified, police said.

On Tuesday, a man went to Cove and John Police Station, ECD and informed ranks that his father-inlaw, Michael Bacchus, 74, of Lot 18 Houston, East Bank Demerara, had gone missing since April 16, 2024.

A missing person report was made at the Brickdam and Alberttown Police Stations respectively by the relatives.

As a result, the man was accompanied by the police to the Memorial Gardens Mortuary, where he identified the body to be that of Bacchus by the clothing and dentures.

He told Police that Bacchus suffered from demen-

tia and was a patient at the Georgetown Public Hospital. A post-mortem examination is scheduled for May 3.

Police had reported on Sunday that a Mangrove Ranger reported a human body had washed up at Hope Beach, ECD. A party of police led by a sergeant visited the scene. On arrival, the decomposed body of a male clad

in a cream and black striped jersey and cream underwear was seen lying motionless, facing up in an advanced state of decomposition. However, due to the advanced state of decomposition, no marks of violence could have been detected. The body was then taken to Memorial Gardens Mortuary. (G9)

not cooking nor did she have the stove on.

The Guyana Fire Service is continuing the investigation. (G4)

Injured: Veron DeMondonca

The flattened house at Fyrish Village, Corentyne, Berbice

Dead: Michael Bacchus

Hemwattie Brijbhukan and her three

have lost their home to fire

Around the World

OOIL NEWS

Oil falls to 7-week low on surprise US storage build, Middle East hopes

il prices fell about three per cent to a seven-week low on Wednesday on a surprise build in US crude stocks, the prospect of a Middle East ceasefire agreement and as hopes faded for near-term US interest rate cuts that could boost oil demand.

Brent futures for July delivery fell US$2.89, or 3.4 per cent, from where the July contract closed on Tuesday to settle at US$83.44 a barrel on Wednesday.

That was down about 5.0 per cent from where the Brent June contract closed on Tuesday when it was still the frontmonth, which would be the front-month's biggest daily percentage decline since October 2023.

West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude fell US$2.93, or 3.6 per cent, to settle at US$79.00 a barrel.

Those were the lowest closes for both benchmarks since March 12 and left both in technically-oversold territory for the first time since December 2023.

In other energy markets, US diesel futures closed at their lowest since July 2023, while US gasoline settled at a sevenweek low.

The US Energy Information Administration (EIA) said energy firms added a surprise 7.3 million barrels of crude into stockpiles during the week ended April 26.

That compares with the 1.1 million barrel withdrawal analysts forecast in a Reuters poll and the 4.9 million barrel increase shown in data from the American Petroleum Institute (API), an industry group. ,

In the Middle East, expectations grew that a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas could be in sight following a renewed push by the US and Egypt. Still, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to go ahead with a long-promised assault on the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

In other news, the US accused Russia of violating the international chemical weapons ban by deploying the choking agent chloropicrin against Ukrainian troops and using riot control agents "as a method of warfare" in Ukraine.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Violence flares at UCLA, Police end protests at New York's Columbia

Mounting tensions on US campuses boiled over on Wednesday when pro-Israel supporters attacked an encampment of pro-Palestinian protesters at UCLA, hours after Police arrested activists who occupied a building at Columbia University and flattened a tent city on its campus.

Eyewitness videos from UCLA, verified by Reuters, showed people wielding sticks or poles to hammer on wooden boards being used as makeshift barricades to protect the pro-Palestinian protesters before Police were called to the campus.

US Democrats press Biden to prevent Israeli assault on Rafah

US President Joe Biden's Administration faced renewed pressure on Wednesday from his fellow Democrats to influence Israel not to launch a full-scale invasion of Rafah, the city where almost half of the Gaza Strip's 2.3 million persons have taken refuge.

Fifty-seven of the 212 Democrats in the House of Representatives signed a letter calling on the Administration to take every possible measure to dissuade Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Government from an all-out assault on the city near the Egyptian border.

"We urge you to invoke existing law and policy to immediately withhold certain offensive military aid to the Israeli Government, including aid sourced from legislation already signed into law, in order to pre-empt a fullscale assault on Rafah," said the letter, dated Wednesday.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the letter, which was led by Representatives Pramila Jayapal and Madeleine Dean.

Biden's support for Israel in its war against Hamas has emerged as a significant polit-

ical liability for the President, particularly among young Democrats. It fuelled a wave of "uncommitted" protest votes in Democratic primaries and has also driven the wave of pro-Palestinian protests at US universities.

That is raising worries for Democrats as Biden is locked

in a tight re-election rematch against his Republican predecessor Donald Trump.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Wednesday he had still not seen a plan for Israel's promised offensive on Rafah that would protect civilians, repeating that Washington could not support such an assault.

Blinken and Netanyahu met in Jerusalem for two-anda-half hours on Wednesday, after which Israel repeated that the Rafah operation would go ahead despite the US position and a United Nations warning that it would lead to "tragedy".

Meanwhile, tank fire echoed from the Gaza strip on Wednesday as Blinken visited an aid inspection point, where he heard from Israeli officials including Defence Minister Yoav Gallant about efforts to increase assistance to the Palestinian enclave just a few hundred meters away. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Kenyan flood toll rises to 181 as

homes and roads are destroyed

Floods and landslides across Kenya have killed 181 persons since March, with hundreds of thousands forced to leave their homes, the Government and Red Cross said on Wednesday, as dozens more were killed in neighbouring Tanzania and Burundi.

Torrential rain and floods have destroyed homes, roads, bridges and other infrastructure across the region. The death toll in Kenya exceeds that from floods triggered by the El Ni o weather phenomenon late last year.

In the central Kenyan town of Mai Mahiu, where at least 48 died in flash floods

on Monday, two bodies were recovered from the debris on Wednesday, Kenya Red Cross South Rift Regional Manager Felix Maiyo said.

Military personnel accompanied by sniffer dogs had joined the search, Maiyo said. Earlier on Wednesday, Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said the total death toll had risen by 10 to 179.

Last year's rains followed the worst drought in large parts of East Africa in decades.

The disaster prompted Pope Francis to speak out in sympathy with Kenyans during a general audience on

Wednesday at the Vatican.

"I ... wish to express to the people of Kenya my spiritual closeness at this time as severe flooding has tragically taken the lives of many of our brothers and sisters, injured others and caused widespread destruction," he said.

The White House on Wednesday extended condolences to victims' families and said the United States is contributing to response efforts through the US Agency for International Development.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Police arrested about 300 persons at Columbia and City College of New York, Mayor Eric Adams said. Many of those arrested were charged with trespassing and criminal mischief.

The clashes at UCLA and in New York are part of the biggest outpouring of US student activism since the anti-racism rallies and marches of 2020. (Excerpt from Reuters) (Excerpt from Reuters)

On the other side of the country, scores of New York City Police Officers in helmets and armour arrested pro-Palestinian demonstrators occupying an academic building at Columbia University. Undergraduate students out watching the extraordinary scene, many jeering at the Police, fled into nearby buildings on the command of officers as Police also cleared out a nearby protest encampment that had inspired similar protests at campuses across the country and abroad.

Split within Haiti's recently-installed CPT over PM position

The Fanmi Lavalas political party of former President Jean Bertrand Aristide, is threatening to withdraw from the presidential transition council (CPT) if Fritz B lizaire is not removed as Prime Minister.

The CPT on Tuesday named Belizaire, a former Sports Minister as the country s Prime Minister replacing Michel Patrick Boisvert, the former Minister of Economy and Finance who was the current interim Prime Minister.

The nine-member transitional council, seven of whom have voting rights, and Belizaire, who served as Sports Minister during the second presidency of Ren Pr val from 2006 to 2011, is reported to have had the support of four of the council s

voting members.

The Conference of Haitian Pastors (COPAH) has also strongly criticised what it described as the undemocratic approach and the violation of the agreement of April 3rd, 2024 in the appointment of Belizaire as Prime Minister.

It said the appointment was done without consideration for other entities of civil society interested in proposing candidates for this position. The Prime Minister selection process must be based on clearly defined criteria rather than political affiliations, it said.

Haiti has been steeped in political turmoil and social unrest following the assassination of President Jovenel Mo se on July 7, 2021.

(Excerpt from CMC)

Brazil floods: Residents stranded on rooftops in Rio Grande do Sul

At least 10 persons have died and more than 20 are missing after storms caused flooding in the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul.

Helicopters are flying over the region searching for people who have been left stranded.

In some areas, the flooding is so severe that helicopters have been unable to land and have had to winch residents to safety.

The state's governor has asked the federal government for help.

"President Lula, please immediately send as much air support as possible for

RS [Rio Grande do Sul]. We need to rescue hundreds of people in dozens of municipalities who are in an emergency due to the intense rain which has already fallen and which is going to continue falling in coming days," Governor Eduardo Leite wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

President Luiz Inàcio Lula da Silva responded, saying that the federal government would "join the efforts of state government and municipalities to get through this difficult time, which is the result of climate change affecting the planet".

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Palestinian Abdel Rahman Barika, who survived an Israeli air strike, looks from a damaged house at the site of an Israeli strike, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip, April 29, 2024 (Reuters/Hatem Khaled photo)

Residents wade through floodwaters after a seasonal river burst its banks following heavy rainfall in Kitengela municipality of Kajiado County, near Nairobi, Kenya, May 1, 2024 (Reuters/Thomas Mukoya photo)

DAILY HOROSCOPES

(March 21-April 19)

Dissect your thoughts and feelings before getting involved in a cause. Question what you can contribute and how it will affect your routine. Make sure you can meet the demands on your time.

Partnerships will require balance and equality to work. If someone tries to push you in a direction that makes you uncomfortable, resist. Stand up for your beliefs and make your position clear.

SUDOKU

(May 21-June 20) (April 20-May 20)

(June 21-July 22)

(July 23-Aug. 22)

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Consider what you can offer and how best to apply your skills. Expand your mind, explore the possibilities and use your intelligence and connections to further your interests.

Get your priorities straight and gather information. Pushing yourself to participate in meaningful events will encourage you to broaden your interests and friendships.

Keep your life simple, think matters through and put your energy where it counts. Spend time with someone who shares your interests or encourages you to explore possibilities.

Get moving, and you'll be surprised by how much you accomplish. Avoid setting limits. How others perceive you will be crucial. Believe in yourself and display confidence.

Don't let things fester. Initiate conversations and figure out where you stand. Head in the direction best suited to fulfilling your dreams. Take the plunge and make things happen.

Take a break. Explore pastimes that challenge you and encourage you to feel excited about life. Sharing your ideas will pay off. Follow your heart and don't stop believing.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

Don't let uncertainty lead to poor decisions. Look inward and take better care of your emotional self. Question those who make you feel bad or disrupt your life.

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Dedicate your time to finding the truth. Knowledge will be essential when making decisions and handling relationships. Avoid financial dealings dependent on others. Follow your heart.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Don't stumble. Emotional issues will surface, and your astuteness will determine how situations unfold. Choose your words carefully, show tolerance and change only what's necessary.

Set high standards, see matters through to the end and enjoy sharing your success with those dear to your heart. Physical improvements and lifestyle changes will lead to a better future.

IPL 2024: Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings…

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) were left reeling at the Chepauk Stadium, as Punjab Kings (PBKS) made it back-to-back wins with a comfortable seven-wicket victory to retain a slim outside chance at making the playoffs. They have also become the second team to beat CSK five times in a row, an honour they now share with Mumbai Indians. It was a far cry from the PBKS’ jaw-dropping success against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), which had lifted PBKS out of a threegame losing slump. This time, their spinners stole the show, restricting CSK to 162 for 7. After Sam Curran opted to bowl on a sweltering evening in Chennai, Rahul Chahar and Harpreet Brar choked the life out of the batting, each taking two wickets and both going boundaryless for their respective four

Brar and Chahar go into CSK's den and spin them out

eries of the chase, leaving them a bowler short. Though Richard Gleeson marked his IPL debut with the dismissal of Prabhsimran Singh, 64 off 37 deliveries between

of them - Shivam Dube and Ravindra Jadeja - were lefthand batters, as CSK tried to frontload their batting card with left-hand batters to counter the direction of turn of both spinners. Match-ups be damned, it simply did not work.

Brar bowled his four overs - 2 for 17 - on the bounce; wicket-to-wicket, giving the odd one the chance to turn, but largely giving batters nothing to work with. Just as it looked like he would be the main man of the double act, Rahul returned in the 19th and went for just three (more on that later), taking out the leg stump of Moeen Ali - another legbreak - along the way to finish with 2 for 16 himself.

Chahal.

But Dhoni has not been the most fluent of batters against spin for some time now, and CSK make sure he comes late enough not to have to deal with the turning ball. Out of the 37 balls he had faced this season before Wednesday, only three were from spinners.

has one more knock at home in the regular season to add some gloss to that accolade.

The first 30 of his 62 came in the opening stand with Rahane, but its demise elicited a mini-collapse to 70 for 3. Gaikwad's last 17 runs came off just five deliveries, which included bringing up a 44-ball half-century with the first six of the innings, which was closely followed by a second.

With the bowling stocks looking a little light with Matheesha Pathirana and Tushar Deshpande missing through injury and illness, and Mustafizur Rahman now returning to Bangladesh, Gaikwad and the CSK management have much to con-

Impact dud A scuffed boundary beyond the gloves of Jitesh Sharma was met with a look of relief by Sameer Rizvi. Not only was it his first boundary - off his 22nd delivery - but it ended the drought off the bat. A new, unwanted record. Now 21 off 22, Rizvi, who was substituted in to replace Rahane, decided to puff his chest out. Kagiso Rabada's extra pace, he thought, would allow him to guide more deliberately behind square. Across he stepped, bat face offered fully to ramp the ball into the beyond. Contact with the ball was crisp, probably the cleanest he had managed on the night. Sadly, Harshal Patel's hustle from deep third was

It was a percentage move by PBKS to bowl Rahul in the penultimate over of the innings with Dhoni on strike. Chahar did his job by keeping the ball away from Dhoni's hitting arc, towards the leg side. Three out of four balls were sent down outside the off stump. The only time Chahar fired one down the leg was when Dhoni tried to create something by moving towards off, and that one

Dhoni finally dismissed… But PBKS had him pegged Okay, he was run-out chasing a second run off the final delivery, but the point still stands: MS Dhoni is yet to be dismissed by a bowler at the 2024 IPL. That's not to say PBKS did not have the measure of him.

Bowling spinners at the death can be risky business. Teams are increasingly doing it, but not often as late as the 19th over, or with a wrist-spinner with the relative lack of experience of Rahul, compared to the likes of Rashid Khan or Yuzvendra

missed leg stump by a whisker.

Home comforts for Gaikwad

Who knows how badly things would have gone for CSK were it not for their captain. Gaikwad's fifth 50-plus score of the season was the only score of note and clarity. It also continued his remarkable scoring streak at Chepauk, which now sees him boast 396 runs at this venue, leading the way for a CSK batter at home in an IPL season. The previous best was Devon Conway's 390 in 2023, and Gaikwad

sider. Thankfully, the captain's form is not a problem, though he'd almost certainly give up his newly-acquired orange cap if it meant winning a toss.

Chennai Super Kings

(20 ovs maximum)

BATTING R Ajinkya Rahane c Rossouw b Harpreet Brar 29 Ruturaj Gaikwad (c) b Arshdeep Singh 62

Shivam Dube lbw b Harpreet Brar 0 Ravindra Jadeja lbw b Chahar 2

Sameer Rizvi c Patel b Rabada 21

Moeen Ali b Chahar 15

MS Dhoni † run out (Patel/†JM Sharma) 14

Daryl Mitchell not out 1

Extras (lb 5, nb 1, w 12) 18

TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 8.10) 162/7

Did not bat: Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Richard Gleeson, Mustafizur Rahman

Fall of wickets: 1-64

(Ajinkya Rahane, 8.2 ov), 2-65

(Shivam Dube, 8.3 ov), 3-70

(Ravindra Jadeja, 9.5 ov), 4-107

(Sameer Rizvi, 15.3 ov), 5-145

(Ruturaj Gaikwad, 17.5 ov), 6-147

(Moeen Ali, 18.4 ov), 7-162

(MS Dhoni, 19.6 ov) •

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Kagiso Rabada 4-0-23-1

Arshdeep Singh 4-0-52-1

Sam Curran 3-0-37-0

Harpreet Brar 4-0-17-2

rewarded with a catch. The impact substitute has come under scrutiny, posited as a factor for the leap in scoring this season. Here was an example of how it can go wrong. (ESPNCricinfo)

Rahul Chahar 4-0-16-2

Harpreet Brar bowled a spell of 4-0-17-2

Ruturaj Gaikwad was often running between the wickets

Rahul Chahar went for just three runs, and took a wicket in the 19th over

Jonny Bairstow was back in full swing

Rilee Rossouw came in and changed things for Punjab Kings

9 teachers successfully complete FIFA F4S training

…Now familiar with GFF Child Safeguarding Policy

Nine teachers representing schools participating in the inaugural Guyana Football Federation-Blue Water Shipping Under-15 Girls’ National Secondary Schools Championship have concluded a comprehensive threeday FIFA Football For School (F4S) workshop with a focus on Child Safeguarding.

Orin Francois, GFF’s Senior Child Welfare and Protection Officer, facilitated the April 25-27 seminar, which was held at the Federation’s National Training Centre at Providence, East Bank

Ahead of the eagerly anticipated May 4 kickoff of the latest girls’ secondary schools tournament

in Guyana, educators Saskia David, Janacy Johnson, Thon Barnwell, Riaz Rupnarain, Christopher Gaskin, Tinesha Trotman, Akiliah Butcher, Anandi Blair and Gailann Barnwell completed the F4S training module and familiarised themselves with the GFF Child Safeguard Policy. Launched in 2022 with the firm support of the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, the F4S programme advocates the

Third Interschools Kayaking Competition set for May 5th

The town of Linden will be rejuvenated on May 5th, as the business entity Elite Kayaking and Nature Tours is set to host the Interschools Kayaking Competition for the third consecutive year, and the activity is expected to be packed with action and enthusiastic supporters.

This competition is expected to see participation from 13 schools hailing from Linden, Kwakwani, Georgetown, Berbice, and the West Side; namely North Ruimveldt Secondary, North Georgetown Secondary, St. Stanislaus Secondary, West Demerara Secondary, Berbice High, Mackenzie High, Christiansburg Wismar Secondary, Wisburg Secondary, New Silvercity Secondary, Linden Foundation Secondary, Harmony Secondary and Kwakwani Secondary.

Speaking during an interview on Guyana Today, Proprietor of Elite Kayaking and Nature Tours, Deon Anderson, credited the impact of the event on the cohesiveness of the education, sports, and tourism sectors.

“We started back in 2022, and we are now in our third year of promoting competition of the inter-school kayaking competition, which is basically to bridge that gap between the sectors of education, sports and tourism.

We know we have a vibrant education and sports sector, and even a tourism sector, but sports tourism is what we bring to bear here in this competition, and the students are excited to be part of this, because we have so many schools that are gonna be participating this year,” Anderon related.

Each team would comprise twelve (12) participants along with four (4) substitutes to bring the total team members to sixteen (16) participants: 8 males and 8 females, the age categories are as follows: Under-14; Under-16; Under-18 and Open.

The Short Course Race follows a Male single kayak race, a Female single kayak race, and a Mixed Doubles Kayak Race: 1 male and 1 female.

The Open Category Long Distance Relay Race will comprise a 400m sprint from Hamilton’s Sawmill to Rigby’s Boat Landing, where the sprinters will then tag their respective partners, who would then proceed into the water in a double kayak from the boat landing to the Watooka Guest House.

The Kwakwani Secondary School thrilled all in 2023, when they displayed sound judgment and a stellar performance to win the tournament, and they would look to repeat their winning performance this year.

utilisation of sports as a means to cultivate crucial life skills. More than eighty teachers nationwide have now undergone training in the F4S philosophy.

In line with FIFA’s Guardians initiative, the GFF Child Safeguarding Policy maintains rigorous protocols to ensure the welfare of every child engaged in the sport.

GFF President Wayne Forde aims to ensure that all officials involved in youth football undergo the GFF Child

Safeguarding training over the next few months.

Course Facilitator Francois has said he is pleased with the group’s response over the three days, adding that they have acknowledged “that the sessions have deepened their understanding of the F4S programme, and given them fresh insights into the GFF’s child safeguarding measures.”

GFF is committed to ensuring a safe and enriching

environment for every child who enjoys playing football.

The Blue Water Shipping Under-15 Girls’ National Secondary Schools Championship marks the start of the F4S programme’s competitive phase. It will see more than one thousand student-athletes from sixty public schools competing on fields across Guyana.

At the end of the workshop, Anandi Blair, attached to the North Georgetown Secondary, shared that she has a greater appreciation for the game of football. “I did not know you can actually use football to illustrate life skills. I wasn’t a big fan of football, but this programme is a very educational programme,” she said.

Reaz Rupnarain of Queen’s College added that the training session was more than he had expected. “They taught us that football is not just a game that we want to go out there and get the kids to win and put our school’s name at the top, but it’s for them to first develop skills that they can use in their lives…and more so

Archery Guyana launches Caribbean Development Archery League for aspiring archers

Archery Guyana is proud to announce the commencement of the Caribbean Development Archery League (CDAL), aimed at providing a platform for budding archers in the region to compete remotely and hone their skills.

Endorsed by World Archery Americas, this initiative is the brainchild of the Archery Association of St Vincent and the Grenadines’ President, World Archery Americas Ethics Committee Member Sanjay Jiandani. It is being run off in several Caribbean countries, which marks a significant step forward for the development of archery in the Caribbean.

The CDAL invites aspiring archers from affiliated clubs across the region to participate in this inaugural event. With no restrictions on the number of entrants, over 30 young archers from various parts of Guyana have already signed up for the ‘Extraordinary Beginner’ Category. This category, designed for archers with a maximum of three months experience, will see participants shoot-

ing from a distance of 15 metres with barebow equipment.

ing sessions were held at Essequibo’s Motorcross Mainstay facility and the National Gymnasium, with the participation of Archery Guyana’s National Coaches Ryan McKinnon and Saeed Karim in Essequibo, and Umasankar Madray and Jeewanram Persaud in Georgetown.

The opening remarks were delivered at the National Gymnasium by Mrs. Vidushi PersaudMcKinnon, President of Archery Guyana, wherein she extended her best wishes to all participants and expressed gratitude to the

The competition will consist of multiple rounds, with league play concluding on June 24th, 2024. Following the league stage, the top four archers in each category would advance to the elimination finals on July 14th, 2024. The winners will be awarded medals at the CDC event in Jamaica.

On Sunday, April 28th, 2024, simultaneous shoot-

to have fun ultimately at the end of the day.”

Towanda McCalmon, F4S Coordinator and Physical Education Sports Officer attached to the Unit of Allied Arts in the Ministry of Education, highlighted that “some of our participants never had an interest in football training, but after the sessions, they have seen how students can benefit and how it can actually be a life changing sport because of the transference of life skills… during the game…on the field and off the field, in a safe, conducive environment.”

Teachers from Soesdyke Secondary, Mocha Secondary, South Ruimveldt Secondary, New Campbellville Secondary and Tucville Secondary also attended the seminar.

coaches, Board of Directors, sponsors Guyana Beverages Inc., media, Director of Sport Mr. Steve Ninvalle, and the National Sports Commission for their support.

Archery Guyana is committed to fostering the growth of archery in the region, and looks forward to a successful and competitive CDAL season.

National Archery Judge Mr. Ryan McKinnon and Judge Candidate Mr. Saeed Karim at the Essequibo session

victory over Nepal

In a dazzling display of power hitting, Johnson Charles led the charge for West Indies A with a spectacular unbeaten 119 from just 61 balls, guiding his team to a commanding 76-run victory over Nepal, by which they took a 2-1 lead in the T20 series in Kirtipur.

Charles’s explosive innings included 13 fours and seven sixes, as he anchored the West Indies A innings and propelled them to a formidable total of 227-3 against the hosts. His half-century came in a blistering 24 balls,

setting the stage for a dominant performance.

Charles formed a crucial second-wicket partnership of 145 runs with Andre Fletcher (53), after Alick Athanaze was run out for 17.

Fletcher’s innings featured four fours and three sixes before he departed in the 16th over. Contributions from Fabian Allen (19 from nine balls) and Keemo Paul (13 from seven) further bolstered the West Indies A total, which marked the highest score by the tourists in the series so far.

In response, Nepal faced an uphill battle, chasing more than 11 runs per over for victory and struggling under scoreboard pressure as they lost wickets at regular intervals. Opener Lokesh Bam and Karan both managed 28 runs, while Kushal Malla contributed 20. However, Nepal ultimately collapsed to 151 all out in 19.2 overs.

Hayden Walsh Jr led the bowling attack for West Indies A with impressive fig-

Berbice Football Association’s (BFA’s) Monedderlust FC were all smiles at the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF’s) National Training Center (NTC) on Tuesday night, after narrowly getting past Ann’s Grove United in a hard-fought battle, by which they picked up their first full three points of the sixth season with a 2-1 victory.

Atlyn Brown opened the scoring for the Berbice side in the 27th minute, and it wasn’t until the second half that Shaquan Moore of Ann’s Grove levelled the scores in the 68th. Then in the 80th minute, Monedderlust were granted a penalty opportunity, which was successfully converted by Stephon Moore to seal the victory. Later in the evening, Den Amstel added 3 points to their tally with a 4-1 vic-

tory over a hapless Buxton United FC. Anthony Benn was the first to add his name to the scoresheet, in

the boots of Benn and Joel Humphrey in the 82nd and 90th+2 sealed the deal for Den Amstel.

The first half of the 2024 season will come to a close this Saturday with an entertaining double-header. In what is being touted as the clash of the season, defending Champions Guyana Defence Force (GDF) FC will come up against Slingerz FC in a battle for the top of the table. Each of these teams currently has a perfect 24 points from 8 games, but GDF hold the top spot owing to their superior goal difference of 36, as compared to Slingerz’s 33.

The top two teams will begin their battle at

the 8th minute, and Gideon Payne made it a 2-0 affair in Den Amstel’s favour in the 19th.

Buxton’s Teshawn Gordon managed to pull one back for his side in the 28th, but two late goals off

ures of 3-28, while Gudakesh Motie provided valuable support with 2-28. Fabian Allen, Matthew Forde, and Obed McCoy also chipped in with a wicket each as the West Indies comfortably secured a pivotal series lead.

Johnson Charles’s heroic innings and the collective effort from the West Indies A bowlers have positioned the team favourably, as they head towards the remaining matches of the series aiming to clinch the series victory against Nepal. (Sportsmax)

Charles’s unbeaten ton powers Windies A

SCOREBOARD

West Indies A (20 ovs maximum) BATTING R Alick Athanaze run out

21:00hrs, prior to which Santos FC and Western Tigers FC will go head-tohead from 18:30hrs.

The second half of the League is scheduled to reconvene on Saturday, May 18th.

Cricket West Indies (CWI) is gearing up to unveil its squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup during a highly anticipated live press conference to be held in Barbados on Friday, May 3.

The event will feature CWI Lead Selector the Most Honourable Dr. Desmond Haynes, and Head Coach Daren Sammy alongside CWI Chief Executive Officer Johnny Grave.

In a statement, Johnny Grave expressed the organization’s excitement about the impending announcement, and highlighted the decision to host a live press conference as a means to directly engage with fans and the media. He said: “Emphasizing the significance of this moment, we chose to host a live press conference to engage with fans and media directly. We also requested permission from the ICC to align our announcement with this event.”

The announcement comes amidst increasing excitement as local box offices across the region open on Thursday, May 2, allowing fans to secure their tickets for the tournament. Additionally, CWI will be releasing the official tourna-

ment song on the same day, further adding to the anticipation building around the event.

“Excitement is mounting as local box offices open across the region on Thursday, May 2, and we are equally thrilled to release the official tournament song on the same day. Anticipation is building, and we can’t wait to share this journey with cricket enthusiasts worldwide,” Grave has added.

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, set to commence

on June 1, will be co-hosted in the Caribbean and the United States, culminating with the finals scheduled to take place in Barbados. With preparations in full swing, CWI’s squad announcement promises to be a significant moment in the lead-up to this highly anticipated global cricketing event. Stay tuned for the unveiling of the squad and the exciting journey ahead for Cricket West Indies at the ICC T20 World Cup. (Sportsmax)

Head Coach Daren Sammy taking a photo

Den Amstel FC (white) drubbed Buxton United

Hayden Walsh Jr claimed

Andre Fletcher hit a half-century

Head Coach Daren Sammy