Local heritage sites attract 69,000 visitors in 2024
aggregate production surges
225 oil lifts recorded from Stabroek Block in 2024 – Bharrat
Heavy focus on community investment in 2025 – Pres Ali to EBD residents
Judiciary to launch mental health, mobile courts
Students relocated from unsafe Dorcas Club Nursery School
India’s forensic experts to strengthen GPF’s capabilities
Over 180 firearms "not made in Guyana" seized during 2024 – Benn
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15, 2025 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Wednesday, January 15 –03:45h-05:15h and Thursday, January 16 – 03:45h-05:15h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Wednesday, January 15 –05:35h-07:05h and Thursday, January 16 – 06:10h-07:40h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Winds: North-Easterly to East North-Easterly between 1.79 metres and 4.02 metres.
High Tide: 17:37h reaching a maximum height of 2.62 metres.
Low Tide: 11:11h and 23:38h reaching minimum heights of 0.73 metre and 0.61 metre.
Gold earned almost US$1B in 2024 as large-scale producers restart, expand operations
…bauxite, stone aggregate production surges
Guyana recorded a sizeable increase in gold production last year, with Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat revealing that gold brought in total earnings of US$989.9 million in 2024 - an increase of over US$180 million.
During an end-of-year press conference on Tuesday, Bharrat provided an update on the performance of the gold mining sector over the past year. He stated that both gold production and declarations saw an increase in 2024 compared to the previous year.
“In 2024, we have started to see a reversal in production, whereby there’s been a small increase in production and declaration. However, with the increase in gold production over 2023, it has brought in an increase in revenue of US$181 million.”
“Total earnings of US$989.9 million in 2024, in comparison to US$808.6 million in 2023. So, we have seen a massive increase in revenue in the gold sector in 2024, in comparison to 2023,” the Minister also said.
In addition to the earnings from gold, 434,000 ounces of gold were also declared. Bharrat described these figures as a very encouraging sign, with a number of key stakeholders either expanding or restarting their mining operations. It was also pointed out that there are gold producers like Canadian company Reunion Gold which are gearing up to begin their gold mining journey.
“The Aurora gold mines, or Zijin group of companies. They have employed, currently, over 2000 employees. That’s a significant increase. They’ve been investing a lot, including in underground mining. Today they boast 2300 employees. They’re poised to increase that.”
“We have Reunion Gold. We signed that agreement in 2024. They’ve already started initial works. They will start construction of their mines in 2025, 2026, creating another 1000 to 1500 jobs, especially for residents in Bartica surrounding areas,” he further explained.
Aurora Gold Mines is owned by Chinese company Zijin Mining after it took over the formerly Canadian owned mine back in 2020. The Canada-based Guyana Goldfields, which had previously operated local subsidiary Aurora Gold Mine (AGM), had moved to downsize its operations since May 2020, after facing constraints from the COVID-19 pandemic coupled with other financial woes and the company’s transition into underground mining.
Meanwhile, a mineral agreement was signed last year with Reunion Gold Corporation, which is based in Toronto, Canada,
for them to operate the Oko West gold project in Region Seven (Cuyuni/Mazaruni).
The project, which will come on stream in 2027, is situated some 95 kilometres (km) Southwest of Georgetown and measures approximately 44 square kilometres (km2).
In October 2023, the Natural Resources Ministry had announced the discovery of gold in Oko West, hinting that the area has potential for a large-scale gold-producing mine. The project is expected to help re-energise Guyana’s mining sector with the production of 350,000 ounces of gold annually.
In addition to Zijin and Reunion, other large-scale foreign gold companies operating in Guyana are Goldsource Mines Inc which operates the Eagle Mountain Prospecting licence in Region Eight (Potaro/Siparuni) and Romanex Guyana Exploration Ltd (RGEL) which operates the Marudi
Mountain Mining licence in Region Nine (Upper Takatu/ Upper Essequibo).
Bauxite and quarrying
Meanwhile, massive increases were also seen in the quarrying sector in 2024, compared to 2023, amid the construction boom taking place across Guyana. For instance, in 2024 3.3 million metric tonnes of stone aggregates were produced, compared to 1.8 million tonnes in 2023.
In 2020, when the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government first entered office, this was just 737,000 tonnes. Then there were the increases recorded in the Bauxite sector, with Bharrat revealing that 1.7 million tonnes of bauxite were produced last year.
“We’ve seen a steady increase of bauxite over the last few years. In 2023, the production of bauxite was 523,732 tonnes. In 2024, we’ve moved that production
to 1.7 million tonnes, an increase of over 200 per cent. As a matter of fact, an increase of 225 per cent in bauxite production in 2024 in comparison to 2023,” Bharrat explained. Local bauxite production had been on an upward trajectory over the last few years, moving from 608,000 tonnes in 2020 to 705,000 tonnes in 2022 with an average of more than 600,000 tonnes in the last three years. In 2022, Guyanese earned some US$98.9 million in bauxite exports – an increase of 23.6 per cent over the previous year.
However, in 2023, Guyana experienced a drop in bauxite production with 525,000 tonnes being declared. A significant contributor to the decline was a drop in production from the large-scale producers, by 317,919 tonnes, but there was also an estimated drop in output from smaller operators, of 207,321 tonnes. Meanwhile, in 2023 Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo had indicated that massive road projects for the public sector for that year required a whopping six million tonnes of aggregate, and while this was viewed as a positive sign, Government was now faced with the challenge of meeting these demands.
At that time, the country could have only produced about 600,000 tonnes at the national level, representing just 10 per cent of demand. For this, he had shared that Government was exploring various options to keep the construction sector going. (G3)
In 2024, Guyana reached a remarkable milestone in the tourism sector, as 69,000 visitors explored the nation’s rich heritage sites. This achievement, celebrated by the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry. Minister Charles Ramson Jr, during an end-of-year press conference, expressed pride in this accomplishment, attributing it to strategic efforts and an increasing demand for cultural tourism.
From iconic landmarks like St George’s Anglican Cathedral, Fort Zeelandia, and the Court of Policy Building to natural marvels like Shell Beach, these sites are not only historical treasures but also economic assets. The recorded database of 39,370 artifacts, monuments, and heritage sites exemplifies the scale of Guyana’s cultural wealth. Investments in these sites have not only enhanced their appeal but also ensured their accessibility to both local and international audiences.
The Minister’s data highlights the diverse range of visitor engagements. For instance, the National Museum attracted nearly 29,000 visitors, while the Museum of African Heritage welcomed 7600 guests. The Walter Roth Museum, dedicated to Guyana’s indigenous heritage, saw over 3200 visitors. Each of these institutions plays a crucial role in preserving and narrating Guyana’s multifaceted history, offering tourists a window into the nation’s soul.
While Government investments laid the groundwork, tour operators have been instrumental in meeting the rising demand. Minister Ramson Jr pointed to the bustling activity in the sector, where securing a booking for the popular Essequibo River Tours now requires a two-week wait. This high demand reflects the growing interest in experiential tourism, where visitors seek immersive and authentic encounters with Guyana’s landscapes and heritage.
Tour operators’ contributions extend beyond logistics. By crafting engaging itineraries and delivering memorable experiences, they amplify the allure of Guyana’s cultural offerings. Notably, these businesses benefit from government facilities without incurring usage costs, enabling them to reinvest in their operations and support local communities. The revenue generated from these activities, estimated in the millions weekly, showcases the tourism sector’s potential as a significant economic driver.
Guyana’s heritage extends beyond static sites to dynamic cultural spaces that foster artistic expression and community engagement. The National Cultural Centre, for instance, hosted 92 events in 2024, encompassing a variety of performances and cultural showcases. Similarly, the Umana Yana served as a versatile venue for 45 events, while Castellani House held 15 meticulously curated exhibitions.
These spaces not only provide platforms for local artists but also attract cultural enthusiasts, contributing to the overall visitor experience. The intricate planning and execution of exhibitions at the Castellani House, often requiring weeks of preparation, highlight the dedication behind these endeavours. Such activities enhance the visibility of Guyana’s artistic talent and reinforce the country’s reputation as a vibrant cultural hub.
The record-breaking visitor numbers to Guyana’s heritage sites signal a broader trend of economic growth driven by tourism. Heritage tourism, in particular, offers a unique value proposition by blending education, recreation, and cultural appreciation. As visitors immerse themselves in Guyana’s history and natural beauty, they contribute to local economies through spending on tours, accommodations, dining, and souvenirs.
Moreover, the tourism sector’s ripple effects extend to various industries, from transportation to handicrafts. Local communities near heritage sites benefit from increased employment opportunities and income generation, fostering economic resilience and social cohesion.
Continued investments in infrastructure, conservation, and marketing are essential to maintaining the appeal of heritage sites. Collaborative efforts between the government, tour operators, and local communities can further enhance the visitor experience and ensure the sector’s sustainability.
Additionally, leveraging digital platforms to promote Guyana’s cultural assets can expand its reach to global audiences. Virtual tours, interactive exhibits, and targeted social media campaigns can attract tech-savvy travellers and Diaspora communities eager to reconnect with their roots.
Guyana’s heritage sites serve as more than repositories of history; they are dynamic engines of tourism and economic growth.
Time may come to initiate renegotiation of 2016 PSA contract, but it is certainly not now
Dear Editor, Lest there be any misunderstanding at all, I wish to make it very clear that I am not - let me repeat: not - writing this letter on behalf of the Government.
I write it out of sheer disappointment and chagrin that the Stabroek News has descended to the level of the Kaieteur News, and has jumped on the bandwagon of the popular cry for renegotiating the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) with Exxon.
Worse, the Stabroek News’ Editorial (Monday, 13th January, 2025) joins its columnist Christopher Ram in singling out President Ali for personal attack.
According to the author of the editorial (it may not be the Editor-in-Chief, Anand Persaud, though ultimately he is accountable), “there is however a big fly in the ointment: the Government of Guyana, or more precisely President Ali. The government is steadfastly refusing to do its duty to invite ExxonMobil to the negotiating table in the same manner that Guyana was invited in 2016”.
This is rubbish. 2025 is not 2016. Our country is palpably now, as distinct from then, hugely benefitting from the massive development taking place from the money that comes from the oil and gas.
In his response to the Kaieteur News reporter at his press conference, who was raising the same question, the President made the point: “I think that you also are aware of the tremendous benefit from the resources we are getting, not only from oil and gas, but from the expanded economy are bringing to our country.”
The President gave examples: “We are able to restore the Because We Care grant that was taken away by the APNU/AFC govern-
ment, that will go to $50,000 per child. We are giving every single child text books in their school. We are building a world class health care system. We are building an education system in which secondary education will be available to all of our children”.
These are benefits directly affecting each and every one of us. He could have gone on to mention the hugely expanded infrastructure of roads and bridges destined to open up the hitherto unreachable parts of our country for the purpose of development and the expansion of our tourism industry.
According to the Stabroek News, “There has to be some explanation for why President Ali and his government is refusing to invite ExxonMobil to the table when Georgetown accepted such an invitation in 2016”. The answer is obvious, and the President has given it, but the author of the Stabroek News Editorial chooses to ignore it. ExxonMobil is not interested. The contract states that both parties must agree to the renegotiation.
Forcing Exxon to the negotiation table at this point in time would be senseless.
As I pointed out in my letter of 7th January, 2025, we would risk “Exxon shutting down production in the interim, regardless of whether they are legally permitted to do so or not”, and we would witness “a plethora of potential investors cancel their visits to Guyana and those that are here buy their tickets out of Guyana”.
The government has not, as the Stabroek News claims, “refused to renegotiate”, and the President was pellucid at his press conference in explaining: “What we committed to was to respect the sanctity of contract, that’s international law that has implications for us as a country. Other in-
vestors are looking on. What we said is that future PSAs would not have these fatal flaws, and future PSAs would not have the type of one-sided arrangement that Exxon had, and we have made those adjustments to future PSAs…we have also to understand the market in which we are operating to ensure that whatever we do from a policy perspective does not drive away investment, but that it strikes the balance where you can have investment whilst at the same time have the greatest benefit to Guyanese people and our country.”
A letter published alongside the Stabroek News Editorial from Dr. Stanley A.V. Paul underscores the wisdom of the President and the Government’s position. Dr. Paul writes, “It is my contention that governance, particularly in time of immense national transformation, must transcend the reactive implementation of public sentiment. Instead, it demands prudence, foresight, and a commitment to balancing the immediacy of popular opinion with the enduring necessity of stability and sustainability”.
The author of the Stabroek News Editorial should have read the letter before putting pen to paper. The Kaieteur News’, and now Stabroek News’ demands for renegotiation have, not surprisingly, provided fodder to others to feed off; such as the disappointing and surprising reaction to this public sentiment by Dr. Vincent Adams - whom I personally respect, and who should know better - in claiming that “the Government of Guyana has cowardly refused to engage the company in dialogue for better benefits for Guyanese”. Dr. Adams should more properly address his concern to his boss in the AFC, Nigel Hughes, whose conflicting legal interest permanently prevents him from
even addressing Exxon on the subject of renegotiation.
And then there is the verbose meaningless buffoonery of G.H.K Lall. As the President went on to warn at his press conference, “When you look at the oil and gas sector in totality, and you look at what is happening around the world, Exxon pulled out of Suriname…if you look at the Middle East, and you look at some places in Africa, there is tremendous pulling out of assets. What we have in Guyana is consolidation of assets. So, we have to understand the balance and what is taking place in the market. The market is not simplistic.” No, it’s not. But sadly, simplistic is an apt description of the collective bleating for renegotiation coming from the Kaieteur News, mimicked now, sadly, by the Stabroek News, for forcing renegotiation on ExxonMobil regardless of the consequences; and at the end of the day, with no predictable results which would benefit Guyana.
Amusing, to put it mildly, was the suggestion from the author of the Stabroek News Editorial that a political party, excluding, of course, the PPP/C and the APNU+AFC, “could contest the 2025 elections on this single issue –renegotiating the contract”, and that this “could put both of the major parties on the backfoot”. Are the owners of the Stabroek News contemplating entering into politics? That opinion alone tells you how incredibly absurd and absolutely thoughtless is the argument for renegotiation now. The time may come, in fact, for the Government to initiate the renegotiation of the 2016 PSA, but it is certainly not now. Any attempt at it would be a prescription for losing the elections.
Yours sincerely, Kit Nascimento
Ranks from the Regional Police Division Number Two are seen chatting with students of the Aurora Nursery School as the division conducted road safety awareness campaigns in the PomeroonSupenaam region
Exposing Vincent Adams’s inferior EPA permit that he claimed was superior to his successor’s
Dear Editor,
For nearly five years since the AFC’s political activist Dr. Vincent Adams was terminated from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), he’s been glorifying his record of accomplishments at the EPA without any proof. Over the years, he consistently claimed that his EPA permit(s) was/ were superior to his successor’s etc. Unfortunately, the evidence is not in his favour.
Dr. Adams boasts of a 47-year career at the US Department of Energy (UDOE), yet the EPA Permit under his hand was embarrassingly inferior when compared to the renewed permit and all the others thereafter under the hand of his successor. Space precludes a detailed page by page comparative analysis in the form of a matrix; however, for the purpose of demonstrating for the readers’ benefit, hereunder stated are some notable clauses in the EPA permit by his successor, Mr. Kemraj Parsram, that were not contained in Dr. Adams’s EPA permit for the Lisa 2 project.
Liza Phase 1 Project Operation and Production facilities, renewed permit dated October 27, 2022, signed by Kemraj Parsram. The following clauses were NOT CONTAINED in Dr. Adams’s permit for the Lisa 2 project dated April 26, 2019:
General
• 1.3. The Permit Holder shall maintain a Project Community Grievance Mechanism to receive and address complaints from individuals and communities who believe that the project caus-
es environmental harm to their community. The grievance mechanism, which shall be in keeping with the World Bank’s Approach to Grievance Redress in Projects, must be practical, inclusive, and accessible for all project affected stakeholders.
1.3.1. The Permit Holder shall maintain records of environmental grievances and report on the numbers, nature and how these were or will be addressed. This information must be provided in the Monthly Report as required by Condition 13.10.
1.3.2. The Annual Report required by Condition 13.9 of this Permit must contain a summary of the environmental grievances and management, including actions taken, challenges and/ or constraints in addressing same.
Air Quality Management
3.1 The Permit Holder shall implement environmentally-effective and technically feasible best practices, in accordance with the American Petroleum Institute (API) Standards and Recommended Practices, for reducing emissions. (Note: Dr. Adams’s Permit under this clause failed to specify which international best practice should be adopted, it instead stated vaguely “international best practice”).
3.6 The Permit Holder shall ensure that there is no discharge of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) in accordance with the International Convention for Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL 73/78) Annex VI.
3.11.1 The Permit
Holder shall not exceed 60 cumulative days of flaring during commissioning…
• 3.11.5 Where flaring during commissioning is expected to exceed 60 cumulative days, the Permit Holder shall seek an approval from the Agency for flaring… 3.11.9 An approval shall not be issued for a period exceeding 60 calendar days. Where flaring exceeds or is expected to exceed the sixty-calendar day period, the Permit Holder shall seek an additional Approval for at least 48 hours before the expiration of the existing approval, which additional approval may be issued subject to further terms and conditions as the Agency deems appropriate.
• 3.12 The Permit Holder shall pay US$50 per tonne of carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e) emitted as a result of flaring in excess of the periods of flaring expressly stipulated at 3.11.1 and 3.11.4 above.
• Further, clauses 3.13 to 3.19.8 were not contained in Dr. Adams Permit under the Air Quality Management clause.
Hazardous and Non-Hazardous Waste Management
• 5.3 The Permit Holder shall implement best practices and best available techniques (BAT) as outlined in the World Bank Group Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) General Introduction Guidelines (2007) and Environmental Health and Safety Guidelines for Offshore Oil and Gas Development (2015) with respect to the prevention of the spillage of hazardous materi-
als from offshore facilities.
5.4
The Permit Holder shall record any accidental release of waste into the marine environment and corrective actions implemented. The notification as required herein shall be submitted to the Agency within 24 hours of the release.
5.9 The Permit Holder shall manage and dispose of putrescible waste in accordance with Annex V of MARPOL 73/78, Regulations for the Prevention of Pollution by Garbage from Ships. Well Blowout Prevention (BOP)
9.12 Within 60 calendar days of the issuance of this Permit, the Permit Holder shall submit for the Agency’s approval, relevant safety case information, including risk assessment and management plan for the well drilling operations. (Note: in the Vincent Adams Permit, Permit Holders were given one (1) year to comply with this clause as opposed to sixty days or 3 months by his successor).
9.13. The Permit Holder shall maintain access to at least one (1) subscription service in a location outside of Guyana to allow mobilization of a Capping Stack to the Liza Phase 1 Project location within nine (9) calendar days or less of an uncontrolled event.
Oil Spills Emergency Plan
10.1
The Permit Holder, in the event of a discharge or spill of any contaminant into water or on land must comply with the polluter pays principle and is therefore responsible for eliminating or controlling the discharge/ spill, cleaning up to the ex-
Tough talk and stringent rules are insufficient to stop corruption
Dear Editor,
Tough talk and stringent rules are insufficient to stop corruption, as this social menace is grounded in a subculture that had its genesis in colonialism, and it has persisted into the present. Uprooting this subculture (characterised by low guilt, selfishness, greed, and twisted values) would not be easy, but this does not suggest any paralysis of action to mitigate or control it.
Corruption takes many forms, and expresses itself in situations of bribery, kickbacks on contracts, not sticking to specifications, shoddy work, ineffective project management, denying contract award to the most responsive and responsible bidders; delaying payments for works done; conflict of interest, paying off for jobs not completed, sabotaging government’s policies and programmes, favouritism in staff promotion, among other anomalies. What is often overlooked is the despicable behaviour of public officials who abuse their position of authority to engage in sexual conduct. And what about trying to steal an election?
At the legal level, the Integrity Commission must enforce its mandate of requir-
ing top state officials, including MPs, to file their annual income and assets reports, and they must be sanctioned (including given jail time) if they fail to comply.
Another stringent measure that had been enacted required the Finance Minister to publicise and notify Parliament on the revenues placed into and withdrawals made from the Natural Resources Fund (NRF). Failure, or non-compliance, could result in jail time for the subject Minister. Though these and other measures have been instituted to achieve accountability, one must ask if they have been effective in curbing corruption.
Why was there a pressing need for both the Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo (at the Arthur Chung Convention Center) and President Dr Irfaan Ali (at State House) in September 2024 to speak out strongly against public misconduct? They avoided the use of the word “corruption”, but their subliminal message was telling. And why did the Minister of Governance and Parliamentary Affairs find it necessary to conduct an “Anti-Corruption March?”
As leaders, they know that while rapid development
and transformation of Guyana create numerous opportunities for economic and social development, they also generate setbacks that shake up traditional values and unwittingly create more opportunities for deviance, including corruption. They also know that opposition forces would capitalize on this setback (corruption) and readily exploit it to their advantage.
The opposition forces would be hard pressed to use racism as a political tool because of the PPPC government’s embrace of the “One Guyana” philosophy (with its numerous achievements in diversity, equity, and inclusion), which is so compelling that it blunts the appeal to racism. Consequently, these forces (opposition) have elevated corruption at the top of their political arsenal.
A caveat is necessary. While they would continue to lament that a significant ethnic group is suppressed, and would only relent if they acquire state power, they would not discard the race card, and would use it as needed.
Laws, rules, regulations, swift auditing, and tough talks are insufficient to curb corruption, which is grounded in a subculture which gradually engulfs its participants into cor-
ruption addiction. A powerful deterrence for this addiction is jail term for those found guilty. Since two or more individuals benefit (illegally) from corrupt practices, none is likely to come forward to provide evidence. A few persons who might be inclined would fear victimisation. This is a major challenge to the authorities. What I suggest as one method to deal with this matter is for the Government, through SOCU, to consider undertaking “sting” operations.
Conventional methods are not effective. It is therefore necessary that Government works to strengthen (reform) existing enforcement institutions, and create an independent Office of Inspector General (OIG) which would have oversight and investigative authority. It would review standard operating procedures, specifications, quality control measures, Evaluation Committee Reports, accounting procedures and protocols, areas of weak governance, etcetera. Notwithstanding, in the short term, jail sentence might be appropriate for infractions. There must be zero tolerance for corruption.
Sincerely,
Dr Tara Singh
tent practicable, and remediating any resulting damage, and monitoring of the impact and taking appropriate measures to prevent, reduce and mitigate impacts, consistent with the National Oil Spill Contingency Plan, the OSRP, and the Environmental Protection Act.
• 10.19 The Permit Holder shall conduct a Net Environmental Benefit Analysis (NEBA) and a Spill Impact Mitigation Assessment (SIMA), in accordance with international petroleum industry standards, and include the findings therefor, in an application for approval under Condition 10.20. The Permit Holder shall ensure that findings detail whether in-situ burning and the use of chemical dispersant (s) is necessary in the circumstances.
• 10.20 In-situ burning and the use of chemical dispersant (s) shall not be used, unless approved by the Agency prior to application. An approval granted in accordance with this condition shall be subject to such terms and conditions as may be required by the Agency…
Employees and Personal Safety
This section in the renewed Permit under the PPP/C government contains a total of twenty-two (22) (11.5 –11.26) clauses that were NOT CONTAINED in the Vincent Adams signed Permit.
New Sections Included in the Renewed Permit and All other Permits there onwards that were not contained in the Vincent Adams signed Permit:
• “Chemical Handling and Management”, clauses 6.1 – 6.12, “MARINE ECOSYSTEMS AND MANAGEMENT”, clauses 8.1 – 8.7,
The Section on “Financial Assurance and Liability for Pollution Damage”, under the Vincent Adams signed Permit contained thirteen (13) clauses, whereas his successor’s contained nineteen (19) clauses. And finally, the section on “Institutional Authority”, under the Vincent Adams signed Permit contained ten (10) clauses, whereas his successor’s under the PPP/C Government contained thirteen (13) clauses. As evidently demonstrated herein, the EPA Permit issued under the hand of the AFC’s so-called oil and gas expert and former Executive Director of the EPA, Dr. Vincent Adams was invariably inferior in contrast to the renewed Permit and all the new Permits thereafter under the hand of his successor, Mr. Kemraj Parsram. It therefore means that, disappointingly, for nearly five long years Dr. Vincent Adams was being outrageously disingenuous about his track record at the EPA under his tenure. The new Permits have been vastly improved and far superior in substance, in terms of safeguarding Guyana from the environmental risks in the petroleum industry. In a forthcoming missive, we will examine is financial and operational performance of the EPA under his tenure.
Yours faithfully, Joel Bhagwandin
Page Foundation
Calculating Probabilities ◄
Probability is the likelihood of something happening in the future. Knowing how to calculate probability will help you predict future events, although not with 100 per cent accuracy. The simple formula to figure out probability (P) is the number of favourable outcomes divided by the total number of possible outcomes (o). You could express this formula as an equation:
Example:
By Lenore Hetrick
Great, glorious, golden sun, Shine down on me today.
If you roll one die of a pair of dice, there are six possible outcomes. Each die is a cube with six sides. Each side has a different number of spots. The die could show 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 spots.
What is the probability of the side with three spots being on top after the die is thrown? The probability of rolling a
What is the probability of a 5 or a 6 or a 4 not being on top after the die is thrown?
Step 1: Decide how many favourable outcomes there are. 6 – 3 = 3
Step 2: Set up your equation. P =
Step 3: You could simplify that equation =
If you were to roll the die two times, you would have a favourable outcome one of those times.
Exercises: Calculate
If there are 17 boys in your class of 35 students, what is the probability that your teacher will call a girl student’s name during class time?
You decide to watch a movie. There are four comedies in the stack of 10 DVDs. What is the probability you will pick a comedy?
Paul knows that once a week his mom cooks steamed fish for dinner. What is the probability that tonight Paul will not have steamed fish?
Make your own bunny bookmark
CONTINUED FROM TUESDAY
Then, draw a straight line along the crease using a redcoloured pencil. Finally, colour the area above the line you drew with the red pencil to replicate Elinor’s iconic red skirt. Take the bottom right triangle to the top and tuck it into the pocket formed by the inverted triangle. This is achieved by folding the pointed end and then inserting it downward into the pocket. Repeat the same on the left side.
It’s time to start crafting Elinor’s face! Begin by drawing an upside-down arch, almost
like the letter U, in the centre of the white section of the bookmark. (Note: The white part of the paper bookmark is at the bottom, while the red part is at the top.) Next, draw two oval shapes for the eyes and two short arches for the eyebrows. Then, draw an upside-down triangle and colour it pink. Lastly, draw a long arch below the pink nose to create Elinor’s smile. To draw Elinor’s hair, use a black pencil. Add depth to it by drawing additional lines with a black marker. To design Elinor’s T-shirt, draw lines and curves f o
You are the life of all this earth, You and your magic ray. You are the life of bird and plant, All must depend on you.
Shine down, great sun, the whole day long! Shine from the heaven's blue. And I will welcome your golden rays, For you mean life to me, And you mean happiness and health, Strength and energy.
Shine down, great sun, on flower and field, And never say goodbye. Forever and ever give us your light From out the side, blue sky.
below her face, as shown in the photograph below. Colour the top of Elinor’s dress red and her T-shirt purple.
Use the remaining paper to make Elinor’s ears and tail.
Cut out two narrow arches (approximately 2 1/2 inches long) to create the ears. Use a pink pencil to draw a smaller oval shape inside each ear. Outline the ears with a black marker and then glue them to the inside of your handmade bookmark. Lastly, cut out a 1/2
inch circle for Elinor’s bunny tail and glue it on top of the red triangle. The next time you read a book, use this DIY corner bookmark inspired by “Elinor Wonders Why” to mark the page where you left off. Just like Elinor, be curious about the story. Ask yourself questions about the book, such as “What do you think will happen next?” or “Does this remind you of anything you’ve done/seen?” (Adapted from pbs.org)
WORD SEARCH:
Heavy focus on community investment in 2025 – Pres Ali to EBD residents
As the Government of Guyana works aggressively to ensure the demands of all citizens are met, Head of State, President Dr Irfaan Ali on Tuesday called for increased community investments.
The Head of State made this call during a community outreach with residents from Friendship and Garden of Eden on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD) on Tuesday.
President Ali highlighted that over the past four years the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration has been engaging with communities across the country in a bid to address health and education issues among others.
“Over the last four years,
we've been engaging communities, engaging citizens, and
many issues across the country. You know, we have been addressing health, education, women, children’s issues in this locality alone, within this NDC (Neighborhood Democratic Council).”
On this point the Head of State revealed that a request was made for more emphasis to be placed on community investments this year.
“So, as we continue this story of building our country, putting infrastructure in, creating wealth, building prosperity, working towards the development of communities and families and individuals, we know that there will be is-
engaging people on the priorities within your communities because we believe in building in conjunction with the people. And we have been addressing
sues and challenges that you want to raise also.”
President Ali added, “so, in this year, 2025 I've asked the Minister of Finance to focus
heavily on community investment. So let us, in this year, focus on further strengthening communities, empowering communities, giving communities more resources, making more resources available at a community level so that we can fix those little issues.”
According to the Head of State, by taking this approach, several common community issues such as security, infrastructure and sanitation can be effectively addressed.
“For example, in our outreaches in the last six to eight weeks, there are some common challenges that communities would have raised with us. Community security, which includes community
lighting, outposts, things like this… Sanitation, community centres, these are the new issues that are emerging. And that is how development is… So as the development piece is so incredible, it is important that we continuously listen for the feedback and listen to the new areas that may be affecting people in the community.”
Additionally, President Ali revealed that his administration will continue to work and identify ways in which it can improve its service delivery to Guyanese citizens.
“And that is important for us as we go forward. How are we going to build greater efficiency in the delivery of Government services? How
are we going to improve the quality of Government service? That is where we are now positioning the Government. In a way in which we can improve Government efficiency and bring greater quality to the delivery of Government service.”
The Head of State was accompanied by Minister with the Housing Ministry, Susan Rodrigues; Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Barrat, and Minister within the Public Works Ministry, Deodat Indar along with representatives of various Government agencies including Guyana Power and Light (GPL), National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) among others.
225 oil lifts recorded from Stabroek Block in 2024 – Bharrat
were recorded from the Stabroek Block last year, the Ministry of Natural Resources disclosed during a press conference on Tuesday. While the revenue generated from the lifts is yet to be fully determined, Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat confirmed that the Government of Guyana received payments for 28 of the total lifts.
The announcement underscores the continued extraction activities in the Stabroek Block, which has been a key contributor to Guyana’s burgeoning oil and gas sector. Further details on the financial returns from the lifts are expected as the Government finalises its earnings reports.
“The production for 2024, I was advised that we had 225 lifts in 2024, which again, as I started out with my opening remarks that it was a good year for the natural resources sector, we have seen increases in almost every commodity across all the sectors.”
“And that is a significant increase from 2023, mainly from the third project coming into production and the full optimisation of FPSO in 2024, compared to when it started out in 2023,” Minister Bharrat also explained.
According to the Minister, the Government is currently working with a consultant on the further optimisation of Exxon’s Prosperity
Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels, to increase its production capacity.
“On the Prosperity optimisation, the minimum capacity of that vessel is 220,000230,000. So, the application is to ramp up to 250,000. That is the application they made for Prosperity. No decision on that as yet.”
“We are awaiting the report from the consultant we have and then we’ll have to do it in consultation with EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) as well. We have nothing against it in this case, its just safety concerns… our equipment as well as environment.”
Then there is the One Guyana FPSO, which is expected to start up this year. According to Bharrat, this FPSO which will service the fourth development of Yellowtail and will go a far way towards further boosting Guyana’s oil production.
“Again, we will see an increase in 2025 because we
have the One Guyana FPSO which should be commissioned and started up later in the year. So, we should have some amount of production from the One Guyana FPSO in 2025,” the Minister said.
“As to how much or how early, at this point in time we won’t be able to give you that because it still depends on how fast it can get here and how fast EXXON can actually set up that FPSO. And their timeframe too depends on weather conditions, the seas and a number of other conditions they have to deal with offshore to set up everything and move to production.”
The Stabroek Block is 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometres). Exxon, through its local subsidiary Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), holds 45 per cent interest therein. Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd holds 30 per cent interest, and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CNOOC Limited, holds the re-
maining 25 per cent interest.
Six FPSOs are expected to be operating offshore Guyana by 2027. The fourth FPSO, dubbed the One Guyana FPSO, is expected to begin producing oil in the second half of this year, when production is expected to reach 250,000 barrels of oil per day.
The fifth FPSO, which would be named Errea Wittu, meaning “abundance” in the Warrau Indigenous language,
would meanwhile operate in the Urau project. It would have an oil storage capacity of two million barrels, an oil production design rate of 250,000 barrels per day, and be able to offload approximately one million barrels onto a tanker in approximately 24 hours.
This vessel would be delivered by MODEC, a Japanese company that has confirmed construction of this FPSO.
Start-up of the US$12.7 bil-
lion Urau development is targeted for 2026. Jaguar, the sixth FPSO, is earmarked for Exxon’s Whiptail project. Government has said that by the time this FPSO comes online in 2027, Guyana is expected to be producing as much as 1.2 million barrels of oil per day. This FPSO is currently in the final stages of construction. (G3)
Meeting with residents of Friendship, EBD (Minister Susan Rodrigues photos)
The One Guyana FPSO
President Dr Irfaan Ali
E-payments for fines, bail, child maintenance could roll out soon – Chief Justice Proper…
Acting Chief Justice, Roxane George, SC has said that the judiciary is on the verge of implementing an electronic payment system for court-related transactions. This initiative is set to transform how payments such as fines, bail, and maintenance are processed, offering convenience and efficiency to litigants and court users.
“I have engaged both the Honorable Dr Ashni Singh, Minister of Finance, and the Honourable Attorney General (AG) on this issue, and I am hopeful of positive results before the end of this quarter,” Chief Justice George revealed at a press conference on Tuesday.
ty, especially for individuals in remote or underserved areas.
The Chief Justice emphasised the time-saving benefits and accessibility of such a system, particularly for women and children relying on maintenance payments. She expressed optimism about its potential to revolutionise judicial administration and enhance access to justice across Guyana.
…in Parliament?
Your Eyewitness is more than a tad agitated to learn from the eminent Clerk of our National Assembly that the words “corrupt” and “corruption” can’t be used in that hallowed chamber.
Mobile Money Guyana (MMG) is expected to play a
She further explained that this e-payment system would include payments for e-tickets for traffic violations and maintenance, stating, “No matter where the person liable for maintenance is located, once they have access to the Internet, they can pay monies through online bank transfers or, for example, by MMG.”
significant role in this digital transformation, allowing users to process payments securely and remotely. MMG is already a widely utilised platform in Guyana for online transactions, and its integration into the judiciary’s payment system is anticipated to enhance accessibili-
This move aligns with the Judiciary’s broader technological modernisation efforts. In 2024, the Supreme Court rolled out an e-litigation system, enabling online filing of cases and electronic case management across various courts. By the end of the year, the system had facilitated over 1,600 High Court filings.
However, Chief Justice George acknowledged the challenges posed by heavy caseloads, stating, “Despite the increase in the number of Judicial officers, the court system cannot realistically conduct trials in every case or deliver judgments within the four-month time frame prescribed by law.”
She encouraged the use of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, such as mediation, to alleviate the burden.
To further improve efficiency, the judiciary plans to expand its court management systems. In 2024, significant strides were made with the development of an electronic court management system, while efforts to finalise criminal procedure rules and upgrade case recording technologies are ongoing.
The introduction of an e-payment system through MMG could bridge significant gaps in access to justice for many Guyanese. Whether for traffic fines or maintenance payments, individuals in rural or hinterland areas would no longer have to undertake lengthy or costly journeys to make payments at court locations.
Additionally, this development ties into the Government’s broader vision of digital transformation across Guyana. The judiciary’s efforts to integrate technology, including MMG and other digital platforms, aim to create a justice system that is efficient, transparent, and inclusive.
The Chief Justice reaffirmed the judiciary’s commitment to modernisation and collaboration with Government partners.
“The integration of technology has been our new frontier,” she declared, emphasising the transformative potential of these systems in meeting the evolving needs of the Guyanese public. (G9)
Jeez! Forget the Opposition member who questioned the Honourable Speaker’s disallowing of the word, but hasn’t the spokesman for the governing PPP – the VP of the country - been pronouncing on corruption and the likelihood of it occurring in a country such as ours; which has just come into BIG money, and is spending it like Fairy Godfather on our long-poverty -stricken citizenry?? Is he not allowed to explain in Parliament what steps his administration is taking to address this threat, which can torpedo that administration’s developmental programme??
To justify his stance, the Clerk pointed specifically to the part on “Parliamentary Language” from the tome “Erskine May Parliamentary Practice”. This is the Bible on the subject - coming out of the custom and practice of our English “Mother of Parliament” at Westminster.
Back in the early days of parliamentary functioning in England, a member would routinely challenge another member to a duel if that first mentioned member felt dishonoured by the other member’s speech. You could imagine the strain put on the National Exchequer – not to mention budding politicians - if MPs’ lives were snuffed out weekly!! So, the Speaker of the House of Commons started the custom of removing the offending words from the written proceedings; and in 1873, the constitutional theorist Erskine May started recording words and expressions the Speaker considered “unparliamentary” - in violation of the rules of politeness in the House of Commons Chamber. Later editions of the book laid down the principle of parliamentary language to enforce the custom. In our case, the Clerk referred to pg 57 of the 19th Edition of the book, and pointed out that some of the proscribed expressions are ‘dog,’ ‘hooligan,’ ‘corrupt,’ and ‘corruption’ – so, voila!!
Now, part of the 19th edition is from 1976, which for sure makes the prohibited words incomplete. The text notes that the prohibited words had to’ve been used against present MPs!! Since the words are judged CONTEXTUALLY, codification of unparliamentary language has proven impractical. In his judgement, the Speaker would direct an MP who used unparliamentary language to withdraw the comment. Refusal to withdraw a comment might lead to an MP being disciplined; for example: the Speaker could 'name' the Member. So, it’s not a case of words forbidding debate on them; it would be patently absurd to assert that our eminent MPs couldn’t debate a motion on, say, stray dogs in our streets!!
In the case under consideration, all that’s forbidden is to accuse a fellow MP of being “corrupt” or engaged in “corruption”. According to Erskine May, former MPs are fair game!!
…trial
Well, at long last, we’re seeing a (dim) light at the end of the elections-rigging tunnel. Twas almost five years ago when Reg 4 RO, Clairmont Mingo, did his thing with spreadsheets and bedsheets on the 2020 General Elections! It’s three-plus years since he, Gecom CEO Lowenfield; Dep CEO Myers; former APNU+AFC Minister and PNC Chair, Volda Lawrence; PNC activist Carol Smith-Joseph and several GECOM Secretariat employees were charged with trying to rig the elections by declaring a false account of votes for the said elections.
So, after one judicial (political?) hurdle or other, the case is finally gonna proceed in front of the Acting Chief Magistrate, before whom it’s now found itself!! She resolved one of the disputes that has held the case in limbo – that it will be tried “summarily” before a magistrate, rather than “indictably” in the High Court in front of a jury. That would’ve needed a preliminary hearing that could’ve opened up all the old cans of worms.
Let justice be done, even if the heavens fall!!
…Unparliamentary words
On the subject of “unparliamentary language”, your Eyewitness thinks the nation may benefit from avoiding these prohibited words - Blackguard, Coward, Git, Guttersnipe, Hooligan, Rat, Sod, Swine, Ignoramus, Stoolpigeon, Miserable pipsqueak, Liar, Stupid cow, Wart, Hypocrite, Idiot and Tart!!
The Chief Justice of Guyana, Roxane George, SC
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15, 2025 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM
Judiciary to launch mental health, mobile courts
In a momentous move to improve access to justice and enhance judicial efficiency, Guyana’s judiciary is preparing to launch two specialised courts - the Mental Health Court and the Mobile Court. These initiatives, scheduled to roll out within the first quarter of 2025, underscore the judiciary’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of citizens and addressing key challenges in the administration of justice.
Speaking at the ceremonial opening of the 2025 legal year, acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Yonette CummingsEdwards described the introduction of these courts as a transformative step.
“This spells efficiency and access to justice. When we specialise, the specialisation is in mind of bringing closer to the people the particular area of justice, as well as optimising the use of the resources which we have,” she stated.
The Mental Health
Court will focus on cases where mental health challenges intersect with the law, ensuring that individuals in such circumstances receive appropriate attention and support. This court will prioritise treatment and rehabilitation over punitive measures, addressing the root causes of offending behaviour.
Justice CummingsEdwards emphasised the importance of this initia-
tive, noting that mental health concerns are often overlooked in traditional legal proceedings.
“Our Mental Health Court will be rolled out shortly within this period, this quarter, and we intend to address all areas that are needed for specialisation within the judicial system,” she explained.
This development follows significant training for judicial officers, facilitated by
international partners such as the United States (US) Embassy and the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).
Officers were trained in mental health-related topics to prepare for the court’s launch. “For this, I would like to thank Jeff Collins of INL in Washington DC and his local counterpart at the US Embassy for making it possible,” Justice Cummings-Edwards added.
The Mobile Court aims to extend the reach of the judiciary by delivering legal services directly to communities in remote and underserved areas. This initiative will reduce the need for residents to travel long distances to access court services, particularly in regions with limited infrastructure.
Justice CummingsEdwards highlighted the transformative potential of the Mobile Court in bridging the gap between the judiciary and citizens.
“We must meet the needs
of a growing society, and justice is the cornerstone in that regard,” she affirmed.
The Mobile Court will be equipped with modern technology to conduct hearings and facilitate case management efficiently, ensuring that justice is dispensed swiftly and fairly.
The introduction of these courts is part of a broader effort by the judiciary to modernise its operations and enhance access to justice.
Justice Cummings-Edwards pointed to other recent developments, such as the rollout of the electronic case management system, which has already been piloted in the Diamond Magistrate’s Court on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD), and will soon expand to other courts.
Additionally, the judiciary has invested in public awareness programmes to educate citizens about their rights and the services offered by the courts. These outreach initiatives, which have included engagements with indigenous
communities and open days at schools, aim to make the judiciary more transparent and accessible.
Justice CummingsEdwards also noted the importance of specialist courts in addressing specific needs. The Family Court, Commercial Court, Sexual Offences Court, Land Court, and Juvenile Court are already operational, and the addition of the Mental Health and Mobile Courts will further enhance the judiciary’s ability to address diverse legal issues.
Reflecting on the judiciary’s progress, Justice Cummings-Edwards reiterated its commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and service excellence.
“We are unwavering in our commitment. Growth is a six-letter word which we embrace. It defies gravity, both cultural and magnetic, but we are determined to move upward and achieve growth and excellence in our services,” she added. (G9)
Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards
India’s forensic experts to strengthen GPF’s capabilities
As the Government of Guyana works assiduously to improve the investigative capabilities of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) stakeholders are gearing up to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with India to send more forensic experts.
In a bid to improve the investigative capabilities of the GPF, Home Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn during the Ministry’s Endof-Year press conference on Monday revealed that last year the Ministry would have procured several piec-
es of modern tech for the police force.
In fact, at the Guyana Forensic Science Laboratory (GFSL) Minister Benn revealed that the facility is now equipped with a scanning electron microscope (SEM) the first of its kind to be acquired.
“What we want to pay attention to is the improvements in forensic capability, both at the police force itself and in relation to the Guyana Forensic Science Laboratory, I think they're represented here. They've just got a new scanning electron microscope and
I think at some point we should invite the press just now to take a look at the new equipment being installed there at great expense, but there's a significant increase in forensic capability with modern equipment.”
An SEM is a scientific instrument that uses a beam of electrons to create images of a sample's surface. SEMs are used in many fields, including materials science, forensics, and pharmaceuticals. Scanning electron microscopy is a highly versatile technique used to obtain
high-resolution images and detailed surface information of samples. The resolution of SEM instruments can range from < 1 nanometre up to several nanometres.
Moreover, in a move to increase the amount of skilled personnel with the Police force, Minister Benn highlighted that the GPF will soon sign an MoU with the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) of India to import forensic experts.
“We are signing up an MOU with the National Forensic Sciences University of India to bring in more forensic experts and to aid in the process of clearing up crime events and doing so in a way which will stand the test in our courts.”
Established in 2009 as the Gujarat Forensic Sciences University (GFSU), and later elevated to the NFSU with the status of an Institution of National Importance, it is the world’s first and only university dedicated to forensic sciences, behavioural sciences, cybersecurity, digital forensics, and allied disciplines.
It was established by the Government of India through Act of 2020 (32 of 2020) with the objective of
fulfilling the acute shortage against the increasing demand for forensic experts in the country and around the world.
NFSU is recognised worldwide as a leader in the field of research and education in forensic sciences and allied sciences.
Additionally, Benn noted that the GPF is actively recruiting and training new ranks.
“The Guyana Police Force is now just about at peak in terms of its man and strength. New recruits
are being trained to finally achieve the number in practice and we are happy that the diversity and representation of communities which we speak of is being gradually and significantly improved at this point in time.”
Meanwhile, in the 2024 budget the GPF received a whopping $30.3 billion, which was geared at enhancing its capabilities while also investing in vital infrastructure for the overarching development of the GPF.
Students relocated from unsafe
Dorcas Club Nursery School
Some 59 students are being relocated from the unsafe conditions that have been present at the Dorcas Club Nursery School, Sparendaam, East Coast Demerara (ECD).
The Education Ministry on Tuesday said that it is conducting this relocation and has made alternative arrangements for the students.
These conditions include the discovery of a highly unsafe environment for both teachers and children in
a building that was being rented for the Dorcas Club Nursery School.
This decision was taken after the facility was found to have serious infrastructural issues in August 2024, posing safety risks to both pupils and teachers.
Thus far, the landlady has not addressed the concerns and has not given any indication of when they would be addressed.
To ensure the safety of the 59 registered children and their teachers, an alternative solution was initially identified at a nearby nursery school with available space.
The Ministry said that a closer review of the registration revealed that only 16 of the 59 children are from the Dorcas Club catchment area, while the remaining 43 children reside within the catchment areas of seven other nursery schools nearby.
As such following two consultations with parents, it was decided that the 43 children residing outside the Dorcas Club catchment area would be placed in the nursery school closest to their homes.
The Ministry said that to ease the transition, all receiving schools have indicated their capacity to receive these pupils and have agreed to accept the children in their current Dorcas Club uniforms, ensuring that parents incur no additional expenses. The Ministry is committed to engaging parents further and will host another meeting to provide updates and address any remaining concerns.
The Ministry said that it remains dedicated to the safety and well-being of every child and appreciates the cooperation of parents and guardians as it works to ensure the continued provision of quality education in safe and conducive environments.
For the 16 children from the Dorcas Club catchment area, recommendations were made to transfer them to suitable nursery schools nearer to their home addresses.
Dorcas Club Nursery School
National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) of India
Police, Fire Service strengthen community ties in Region 2
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) joined forces for a series of community outreach initiatives in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), engaging residents, youth groups, and schools in activities aimed at promoting safety, education, and collaboration.
al understanding and trust.
In another engagement, ranks from Anna Regina Police Station visited St Deny’s Mission (Tapakuma) to strengthen partnerships with residents. Discussions focused on issues such as reckless driving, noise nuisances, decentralised police services, and the need for credible information-sharing. Residents welcomed the initiative and called for more frequent engagements with law enforcement.
Also on Saturday, ranks from Charity Police Station led a community engagement session at Siriki Sand,
On Saturday last, the Onderneeming Sand Pit Youth Group, Raising Star, visited the Essequibo Fire Station in Anna Regina. The youths explored various departments, participated in a lecture on fire safety and equipment use, and observed practical demonstrations. The session highlighted fire prevention strategies and proper responses to fire emergencies.
Upper Pomeroon River. Villagers were educated on critical topics, including: the dangers of narcotics and their effects; family violence and child abuse; safe use of the Pomeroon River; juvenile charges under the Juvenile Justice Act; the Sexual Offences Act and the rise in related offences. The outreach also promoted initiatives such as increased river patrols, forming Community Policing Groups, and free computer training at the ZARA Computer Centre in Charity. Villagers voiced concerns, which were addressed by the team, fostering mutu-
In Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) almost 50,000 persons have registered for the $100,000 cash grant which is being given to Guyanese over the age of 18 years.
As the registration for the cash grant for residents closed off on Sunday in the East Berbice-Corentyne region, 49,830 persons have been registered.
This is according to Region Six Chairman David Armogan.
Initially when the registration process commenced for persons other than pensioners, there was chaos at the few centres set up across the region.
However, 138 centres were established across the region in the 19 Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDC) and the three municipalities along with the riverine communities of Baracara, Orealla and Siparuta.
“Some of the NDCs had
more than one area and the municipalities had more than one area, that is how we ended up with 138 places to registered persons. We have registered up to Sunday 49,830 persons for the cash grant,” Armogan revealed.
There are persons who have not registered including persons who are work-
ing on sea and others who would have been away from the country for varying reasons.
According to the Regional Chairman, there has been no word as yet on what arrangements would be put in place to have them registered.
Nevertheless, Vice President Dr Bharrat
Additionally, on Tuesday, police ranks from the Traffic
Education Department conducted lectures at Abraham Zuil Secondary, Aurora Nursery, and Aurora Primary schools. The topics covered included road safety and pedestrian crossing rules, the causes of road accidents and youth crime, peer pressure, teenage pregnancy, positive role models, and the dangers of alcohol, drugs, and overloaded minibuses. Over 800 students and teachers participated, reinforcing the message of responsible behaviour and community values.
Jagdeo had already assured that everyone will have a chance to get registered for the cash grant.
However, Armogan pointed out that authorities in the region are still to receive information on the way forward for those who are still to get registered.
“We have to wait on the Ministry of Finance to see if
there will be another date that will be set to accommodate those persons who have not registered. What we had told the NDCs to ensure that at all these centres that if there are persons who are bedridden and incapable of coming to the centre, they must go and register them at their homes. So, that was done
in a number of cases,” the Chairman added.
Meanwhile, persons who were registered as National Insurance Scheme (NIS) pensioners and were unable to uplift their cheques will still have a chance to do so.
Armogan explained that even though the distribution of cheques for pensioners ceased after the first week of distribution, arrangements have been made for those pensioners to uplift their cheques.
“There was some talk of an extension for NIS but that did not happen. The Ministry of Finance said to us that those persons who did not collect their cheques at the NIS, they will collect it at a certain point in time which is to me announced.”
The chairman further explained that those arrangements will see the cheques being distributed at the 138 centres which have been established across the region.
(G4)
Region Two Police ranks and fire officers engaged in outreach activities
GTTCI to begin full 18-month training programme from October – Director
…as 33 commence final 6 months at FacTor Simulator
Persons
Guyana Technical Training College Inc (GTTCI) commonly referred to as the Oil and Gas Institute, is expected to take over the full
training of cohorts. Currently, the first 12 months of training takes place in Canada and the final six months, on the FacTor Simulator at
Onderneeming resident slapped with rape charge
A46-year-old man of from Onderneeming Sand Pit, Essequibo Coast, has been slapped with a rape charge.
Gopaul Shawn Baljodha, a labourer, appeared at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Tamieka Clarke on Tuesday.
It is alleged that on January 1, 2024, at Onderneeming Sand Pit, Essequibo Coast, he raped a woman also from Region Two.
The charge was filed under Section 3 (3) of the Sexual Offences Act, Chapter 8:03.
The prosecutor objected to bail however the court granted bail in the sum of
$300,000
The case adjourned to January 30.
GTTCI, Port Mourant.
Last October the first batch graduated and according to Director of the College Professor Clement Sankat, all twenty-four are currently employed on the various Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels.
Meanwhile, the first 2025 cohort, consisting of 33 students, has officially begun training at the FacTor Simulator having completed their one-year training in Canada.
Twenty-two are pursuing courses in mechanical, electronical installation and production technician programmes while eleven are being trained to become cargo technicians.
After completing the six-month programme, these individuals will be certified and ready to work on FPSOs offshore. This marks the largest group to be trained in Guyana since the commissioning of the FacTor last year.
The one-year programme at Nova Scotia Community College in Canada comprises of basic and advanced skills training.
Professor Sankat told this publication that as from October the full 18-month programme will be done at
the Port Mourant FacTor Simulator.
“We are hoping that all of this training will be repatriated to Guyana starting in October of this year. That is, the twelve months that was done in Canada, will be done at the GTTCI right here in Port Mourant starting in October.”
Currently, work is ongoing to construct the classroom building, workshops building and administrative buildings.
Professor Sankat is positive that they will all be ready for October.
The other facilities to complete the campus Professor Sankat noted should be completed by the third quarter of 2026.
Work is yet to commence on the 100-room accommodation facility.
The GTTCI Director says it would be a momentous occasion when the college would be able to conduct the entire 18-month programme at Port Mourant.
The establishment of GTTCI is the brain child of President Dr Irfaan Ali.
According to the Collage’s Director, there are challenges. Nevertheless, he assured that the buildings will be equipped with “cutting edge state of the art workshop and laboratory equipment”
“Our President has always said he wants our programmes to have global accreditation and we are working on that with an external partner to ensure that our graduates are recognised internationally and the quality and stan-
dard of our programmes is of a global level.”
Apart from the four diploma programmes; mechanical, electronical, implementation and operation arrangements are being made to introduce a programme for building, construction and project management.
“We are looking for a partner institution that will help us to put a cutting-edge programme there. Construction is booming in Guyana but we need good junior managers to help in that process… To help the engineers, construction manager etc, so that they can get their work done within time and budget and of course with quality and ensure it is done safety,” Professor Sankat pointed out. (G4)
Essequibo Coast man jailed for assaulting mother …2
others face separate assault
Three individuals from Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) are facing charges for various assault-related offences, with two appearing in Suddie Magistrate's Court on Tuesday.
The first case involves George Khan, a 20-yearold security guard of Good Hope, Essequibo Coast, who is charged with unlawful wounding and assault causing bodily harm. Khan is accused of assaulting 71-yearold George Couhman, another security guard, on January 11 at Supenaam, Essequibo Coast. Khan, who
was not required to plead, was granted $150,000 bail. As a condition for his bail, he must stay 100 feet away from the virtual complainant. The case was adjourned to January 30.
In a separate incident, 26-year-old Kishawn Nauth, a laborer of Bush Lot, Essequibo Coast, has been charged with assault causing actual bodily harm to his mother, 42-year-old Uigeeta Gopaul. The attack occurred on January 11, 2025, in Bush Lot. Nauth pleaded guilty and was sentenced to two months in prison.
Meanwhile, Joel
charges
Benjamin, a 37-year-old man from Queenstown, Essequibo Coast, was granted bail after being committed to stand trial in the High Court on a charged of attempting to commit murder against Jonathan Singh, a 21-year-old miner, on April 2, 2024. Magistrate Tamieka Clarke ruled that based on the evidence before the court, there is sufficient evidence before the court and she committed Benjamin to stand trial at the next practicable session at the Suddie Supreme Criminal Court. Bail was granted in the sum of $300,000.
George Khan, Kishawn Nauth and Joel Benjamin
Gopaul Shawn Baljodha
enrolled at the Guyana Technical Training College Inc (GTTCI)
Ramsammy’s Ruminations
The exponential growth of confidence in Guyana’s development trajectory
EDr Leslie Ramsammy
verywhere one looks or goes, Guyana is a topic for discussion. Guyana has become one of the most exciting destinations for investors and people looking at economic development. The World Economic Forum (WEF) is scheduled to be held in Davos, Switzerland next week. More than 60 heads of state and representatives (vice-presidents, deputy prime ministers, foreign affairs ministers, and other government officials) from more than 150 countries would be attending one of the most prestigious global economic meetings and annual events. Many former heads of state would be present. More than a thousand CEOs of the most important corporations around the world would be in attendance. There would be more than 3,000 delegates at the meeting.
Guyana is attending, but the composition of the delegation is yet to be announced. In spite of this, Guyana’s President, HE Dr Irfaan Ali, is one of the most-sought-after heads of state, at this time, for the Davos Meeting. Heads of state, CEOs, and other important leaders are requesting meetings with the President of Guyana. If the President is attending the WEF in Davos next week, he would be one of the very busiest persons in Davos.
All of this is a strong indication that Guyana has become one of the most exciting countries around the world. But in all of this excitement, there is an exponential growth in the confidence people in and out of Guyana have for overall development of our beautiful country.
The recent approval of the US$529M loan to Guyana for the gas-toenergy project by the US EXIM Bank is testimony to the global confidence in Guyana’s economy and Guyana’s social and political development. The attention development banks like the IDB, the World Bank, the CDB, the Islamic Bank, Exim Banks from the US, the UK, China, India and Africa are showing, and their desire to invest in Guyana’s infrastructure development are concrete evidence and a litmus test of the growing confidence in Guyana.
President Irfaan Ali pointed out how the local private sector was demonstrating the unprecedented confidence in Guyana’s development by investing at levels never imagined before. From August 2020 to end of June 2024, private sector investment has grown by more than 60%. This is more than three times the growth that took place in the more-than-fiveyears between May 2015 and August 2020. In the period 2015 to 2020, under the PNC-led APNU/AFC Administration, the average annual growth in private sector investment was under 3%. The annual increase in private sector investment since 2020 is above 15%. The major reason the private sector was holding back in the 2015-2020 period was a lack of confidence in the economic, political and social stability in the country. This has changed dramatically since 2020, with the private sector giddy in their belief that Guyana is the best place for them to invest. Rather than parking their money in overseas bank accounts, the local private sector is now enthusiastically investing in its own country.
But as the President pointed out, part of the lack of confidence in the 2015-2020 period is that, instead of encouraging private sector investment, the government crowded them out by being the biggest borrower. The growth in government investment went from $28B to more than $145B, a 428% growth, an almost 90% annual growth compared to under 3% annual growth by the private sector. When such a disparity exists, it shows that there is little confidence in the local economy and in the development trajectory of a country.
Private sector investment increased across the board, not just in one area. In agriculture alone, private sector investment grew from $12.5B to $24.6B, an increase of almost 100% in the period between 2020 and mid-2024. In the same period, manufacturing investment increased from $15.1B to $22.3B, a 47% increase. In construction, private sector investment increased from $10.6B to 20.4B, an increase of 93%. In mining, private sector investment increased from $4.2B to $6.9B, an increase of 65%. In real estate mortgages, investment increased from $88.7B to $140.2B, an increase of 58%. In other kinds of investment by the private sector, investment increased from $47.8B to $107.2B, an increase of 124%. This Guyana story is very different from the stagnant environment that existed between 2015 and 2020.
For those who want to dismiss the growth occurring in Guyana and posit the false claim that, without oil, there has been no growth, the above is the disclaimer. The truth is that the non-oil investment and nonoil growth by themselves are responsible for a phenomenal growth in job opportunities in Guyana.
This past week, two strong members or supporters of the PNC: James Bond, who was an executive member of the PNC at one time, and Selwyn Peters, announced they are supporting President Irfaan Ali for a second term. Already others who campaigned with the PNC in previous elections have been working at the local government level with the PPP. While James Bond and Selwyn Peters are the latest of the PNC strong supporters who have aligned themselves with the PPP, it is likely that this is the beginning of a tsunami of people drifting away from the PNC to the PPP. As election fever heats up, mark my word, there will be a constant stream of people drifting away from the PNC and the AFC to the PPP.
On Friday, January 17th, Minister Ashni Singh will be reading the National Budget 2025, perhaps the most anticipated national budget speech ever in Guyana and CARICOM. Last year, the budget speech lasted for 5 hours and 43 minutes. Expect a much longer speech for Budget 2025. Budget 2024 was the first time ever that Guyana’s national budget exceeded $1 trillion. Budget 2025 will be far above the $1 trillion mark. Budget 2025 would establish Guyana as the runaway winner for the largest GDP growth in the world, and set Guyana on track for repeating as the leader in GDP growth for yet another year.
Local heritage sites attract 69,000 visitors in 2024
The Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry has recorded visitor numbers to Guyana’s heritage sites as 69,000 in 2024.
Some of Guyana’s heritage sites that were visited in 2024 include St George’s Anglican Cathedral, Fort Zeelandia, the Court of Policy Building, Georgetown City Hall, Shell Beach, among others.
The Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Charles Ramson Jr, highlighted the soaring figures during his End-of-Year press conference held last Saturday.
“We made investments in our heritage sites, and as a result of that, the number of persons visiting our heritage sites is now 69,000 persons for 2024,” he stated.
garded.
“If you wanted to get a tour operator to book this weekend, to take you to the Essequibo River Tours, you
However, according to the Minister, while the rising number of visitors can be attributed to the
have to wait two weeks. You can’t just go and say you want to book with a tour operator. What does
Ministry’s investments, it is also due to the growing demand being met by tour operators which must also be regarded – he gave an example of how the tour operators are highly re -
that say? It’s saying that there’s a demand, and that demand is being met by persons who are operating a business,” he explained.
He further noted that this is also significant, es -
pecially considering that the businesses being run by these tour operators do not incur costs for the use of Government facilities.
“And they’re using our facilities at no cost. They’re using our facilities for economic activities. That’s millions and millions of dollars they generate weekly just from providing their tour operations,” he added.
On that note, the Minister revealed that Guyana has also recorded a significant number of heritage sites in the Ministry’s database.
“So we now have recorded 39,370 artifacts, monuments, and heritage sites
year, and that includes the preparation time, which means setup, etc. The Umana Yana hosted 45 events last year. The Castellani House held 15 exhibitions,” the Minister highlighted.
He emphasised that these numbers are significant because of the detailed preparation involved in hosting shows and exhibitions at these venues.
“That’s not just the events that were held there. We’re talking about the exhibitions themselves. Fifteen exhibitions were held at the Castellani House, which is more than one a month. That’s not easy to do when you con -
in our entire database. That’s 39,370 artifacts, monuments, and heritage sites within our inventory. These investments that we made—actually, before I get to heritage, let’s speak about the visitors to some of the facilities, like the National Museum.”
Meanwhile, various other cultural and performing arts sites saw impressive numbers as well, with the Umana Yana being a key location for hosting events.
“The National Cultural Centre held 92 events last
sider the mounting, staging, and preparation required for each exhibition, and then the actual display time, which usually lasts two to three weeks,” he explained.
Additionally, the Minister revealed the recorded visitor numbers for various sites in 2024.
“28,924 persons visited the National Museum last year. The Museum of African Heritage had 7,600 visitors. The Walter Roth Museum recorded 3,279 visitors,” he stated. (G2)
Chief Vet calls on Caricom to step up efforts to combat spread of highly pathogenic Avian Influenza
The Committee of CARICOM Chief Veterinary Officers (CCCVO) has advised Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Member States to intensify efforts to prevent the entry of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus (HPAIV) in the Region.
working to access the country’s preparedness to manage an outbreak of the ‘bird flu’.
In March of 2023 the GLDA conducted a second simulated outbreak of the Highly Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (HPAI) – commonly known as ‘bird flu’ at an Agriculture Extension Centre in Kuru Kururu.
The three-day simulation exercise was done to
HPAI and other zoonotic diseases.
Avian Influenza Avian Influenza, also known as 'bird flu', is a disease primarily affecting birds and is caused by a virus of the Orthomyxoviridae family.
According to its subtype, it may be classified as high or low pathogenicity, presenting different symptoms in infected birds.
ing in high death rates in different species of birds.
Most of the influenza viruses circulating in birds are not zoonotic. However, some HPAI strains have the ability to infect humans, posing a threat to public health. The main risk factor is the direct or indirect exposure to infected animals or environments and surfaces contaminated by feces.
Late last month, a risk analysis sub-committee of the CCCVO met and made recommendations to CARICOM Member States, including a review and update of national HPAIV emergency plans and an intensification of surveillance and early detection mechanism and activities.
The Committee also
The HPAIV, a subtype of ‘bird flu’, causes serious illness that can spread rapidly and result in high death rates in different species of birds, according to the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO). The most common way for the virus to enter a territory is through migratory wild birds, PAHO said. Recently, the number of cases in non-avian species has risen.
wants Member States to improve collaboration on diagnostics, increase data-sharing to improve regional readiness and mitigate the risk of the disease entering through live animal importation. It has advised that there should be an intensification of regional coordination among development partners and the utilisation of a ‘One Health’ approach among regional public health agencies.
Meanwhile, in Guyana, the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) has been actively
evaluate the national One Health collaboration, and Guyana’s preparedness to manage an outbreak of the ‘bird flu’ and other zoonotic diseases.
Upon completion of the simulated outbreak, GLDA and its partners identified areas that require improvements in the way they respond to an outbreak of
The Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus (LPAIV) can cause a mild illness, often unnoticed or without any symptoms. The Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus (HPAIV) caused by subtypes (H5 and H7) of type A, causes serious illness in birds that can spread rapidly, result -
The most common way for the virus to enter a territory is through migratory wild birds. The main risk factor for transmission from birds to humans is direct or indirect contact with infected animals or with environments and surfaces contaminated by feces. Plucking, handling infected poultry carcasses, and preparing poultry for consumption, especially in domestic settings, may also be risk factors.
When avian influenza is transmitted to humans, symptoms in people can range from mild upper respiratory tract infection (fever and cough) to severe pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (difficulty breathing), shock, and in a worst-case scenario death.
Over 180 firearms "not made in Guyana" seized during 2024 – Benn
As law enforcement officials across the country continue to crack down on criminal activity, over 180 illegal firearms were confiscated by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) last year.
This was revealed by Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn on Monday during the Ministry’s End-ofYear press conference.
“We have had I think over 180 firearms seized last year. They're not made in Guyana. We barely could make a bicycle spoke but these firearms come from the north and the northeast and are a pervasive issue in relation to crim-
inal activities being done in the country.”
While majority of these firearms are produced internationally, Minister Benn noted that stakeholders must ramp up inspection exercises within the country in a bid to crack down on illegal firearm distributors. He added that increased screening must also be done at all ports of entry.
“But while we speak to the countries of origin where the firearms come from, we have to work with those who may have illegal firearms here or have illegal firearms here and to up the screen-
ing at the ports, the screening at the port in relation to what comes in relation to firearms.”
At a press conference back in November 2024, Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum disclosed that the Guyana Police Force (GPF) seized 162 firearms from January 1 to November 11, 2024. It was further revealed that these weapons originated mostly from the United States (US) as well as from Brazil and Venezuela among other countries in Europe and Asia.
Additionally, Minister Benn revealed that according to data analysed by the GPF, there's a high level of dysfunctionality in some communities. He added that in most cases the younger population are the main ones who commit crimes. In this regard the Minister noted that the Police force must work with these communities in a bid to reduce criminal activity
“There are some persons who are completely invested in criminal activities in a multifaceted way. So, this may not only relate to drugs but it could also be related to trafficking in persons, fire-
A large cache of firearms and ammunition unearthed in a barrel that was shipped from the
arms trafficking, smuggling of gold and mercury and all other things, trafficking in wildlife.”
The Home Affairs Minister said, “But many of
these issues are related to much younger people, and we have to work at the level of our communities. The outreaches we do, particularly the police force and fire ser-
vice and even ourselves in relation to bringing support to the communities. Pointing out alternatives for young persons, young men particularly.”
Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) conducting a simulated outbreak exercise in
March 2023
Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn
United States in November 2023
Sod turned for Guyana's 1st school for children with hearing disabilities
The sod was turned on Tuesday for a new school to cater for children with hearing disabilities, the country’s first dedicated school for the deaf.
This new facility which will be constructed within the Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara (ECD) area represents an over $194 million investment. The project is being executed by Superior Supplies and General Construction and is scheduled to be completed within nine months. The state-of-the-art facility, the Education Ministry said on Tuesday will cater
to 30 learners who are deaf, providing a nurturing environment that celebrates and supports deaf culture.
Speaking at the sod turning ceremony Education Minister Priya Manickchand spoke of the Government’s commitment towards making learning easier and more affordable, particularly for persons living with disabilities.
“I want to say to parents, I know that this must be a particularly hard, worrying, confusing in many cases, extra that you have to do with a child who has education special needs. We will try very hard to
put systems in place in an organised way to make sure your children can academically as well as benefit from extracurricular stuff so that your child can be a whole child and be the best they can be in their circumstances that's our aim.”
Also present at the ceremony was President of the Deaf Association, Sabine McIntosh who highlighted that the new facility will not only enhance the learning experience for persons with hearing disabilities, but will also serve as a platform to train teachers.
“And I think this can be a focal point for, not
Bar Association calls for appointment of Chancellor, Chief Justice
The Guyana Bar Association (GBA) has reiterated its concerns about the prolonged lack of permanent appointments to the positions of Chancellor and Chief Justice, describing the situation as “untenable.” This issue, which has persisted for over two decades, was highlighted during the opening of Law Year 2025, where the Bar Association’s President, Kamal Ramkarran, called for immediate resolution.
Since 2017, Justices Yonette CummingsEdwards and Roxane George have been serving in acting capacities as Chancellor and Chief Justice, respectively. Ramkarran stressed the pressing need for their confirmation, emphasising the
ly resulted in political deadlock. This impasse has now spanned over two decades, affecting four successive presidential administrations.
detrimental impact of the ongoing uncertainty on the judiciary.
He further expressed confidence in the qualifications and competence of the acting officials.
Chapter 127 (1) of the Constitution grants the President the authority to appoint the Chancellor and Chief Justice. However, these appointments require agreement from the Leader of the Opposition—a stipulation that has consistent-
Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards and Justice Roxane George were appointed in acting capacities in 2017.
The last confirmed Chancellor of the Judiciary was Justice Desiree Bernard, who served until 2005 before the constitutional changes took effect.
Attorney General (AG) Anil Nandlall, SC, along with past Bar Association President Pauline Chase, has previously advocated for
a reevaluation of the constitutional provisions governing these appointments. They have suggested this issue be addressed during the country’s much-anticipated constitutional review process.
Independence
During her address at the opening of the Law Year 2025, Chief Justice Roxane George also touched on the critical need for an adequately resourced judiciary, noting its importance in maintaining the independence of the judiciary.
“I nevertheless reiterate that an adequately resourced judiciary is a necessity, as I urge full adherence to the constitutional requirements of Article 122A regarding its funding, and therefore independence,” she said.
Chief Justice (ag) George highlighted the judiciary’s commitment to overcoming challenges, including heavy caseloads and a lack of resources, as they continue to push for modernisation and efficiency. Her remarks underscored the urgent need for decisive action to address systemic issues, including the prolonged delays in confirming the top judicial appointments.
even for academically, well it's human rights issue of course too, but also to reach out in other communities right. It can be used as a training for wherever there's a deaf child, the training, the teacher could come, be trained, be sent out back,” she said.
Additionally, Assistant Chief Education Officer with responsibility for Special Education Needs (ACEO-SEN) Keon Cheong who highlighted some of the transformative work his unit has been doing over the years.
“We're doing a lot of things and I'd like to take off from where Sabine spoke about adding value and this add value to them academically because now, they have a space whereby deafness, deaf culture can really blossom and create
this capacity here. It's not only intended to be a school but, in the conversation, yesterday with Sabine we spoke about the possibility of being a resource centre in a space where deaf youths can congregate and so many things can come out of that. It definitely adds value for them.”
Moreover, the ACEO revealed that through Governments investments the Ministry now boasts Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND) spaces at various schools.
“So, we now have 27 SEND spaces. 27 SEND spaces is a combination of SEND classrooms and SEND schools. The schools are the SEND home and casualty facilities and the SEND classrooms are the classrooms from the mainstream schools and the chil-
dren are being sent there based on the screening packet and the assessment that's done by the officers or the diagnostics. The assessment process, we take it from the screening It's a due process to ensure the children really get the diagnosis of disabilities.”
In 2023, the SEND department launched its screening and intervention programme, which led to the training of over 1500 nursery year two teachers in learner screening. Additionally, 10 out of 11 educational districts now have dedicated SEND officers.
Another major aspect of the sector was the introduction of the Associate Degree in Special Education Needs and Disabilities at the Cyril Potter College of Education.
Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards
Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George
Education Minister Priya Manickchand along with President of the Deaf Association, Sabine McIntosh and other officials during the sod-turning ceremony
Regional
US to remove Cuba from state sponsors of terror list in final days before Trump
The Biden Administration said on Tuesday it would remove Cuba from its terrorism blacklist, while Cuba said separately it would release upward of 500 prisoners from its jails, dual announcements poised to reshape US-Cuba relations just days before Donald Trump takes office.
President Joe Biden's announcements effectively roll back many of the sanctions put in place by Presidentelect Trump during his previous term ending in 2021. If they endure, they would represent the most significant advance in US-Cuba relations since the Obamaera detente.
Trump, a harsh Cuba critic who designated the island a state sponsor of terrorism - has not yet commented on the measures but has promised a hard line on the communist-run country. He also nominated US Senator Marco Rubio, the son of immigrants from Cuba and an outspoken critic of the island's Government, as Secretary of State.
Biden's announced plans – subject to the review of Congress, and the incoming Trump Administration –would lift Trump's 2021 designation of Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism, easing sanctions on an island already suffering a deep economic crisis.
They would also revoke a 2017 Trump order that restricted financial transactions with some militaryand Government-linked Cuban entities, according to a senior administration official.
Biden also seeks to prevent individuals from filing lawsuits against both Cuban entities and foreign companies under the Helms-Burton Act over property seized following Fidel Castro's 1959 revolution, the official said.
Just one hour after the US announcement, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel announced his Government planned to "gradually" release 553 prisoners following talks with Pope Francis. (Excerpt from Reuters)
More than 1 million people displaced by raging Haiti gang violence, UN says
More than a million people, over half of them children, are now displaced within Haiti where gang violence continues unabated despite the start of a United Nationsbacked security mission last year, UN data showed on Tuesday. The tally of 1.04 million displaced people released by the International Organisation for Migration represents a threefold increase from December 2023 when 315,000 people were homeless. Never before have so many people been displaced by violence in the country, according to UN data.
"Haiti needs sustained humanitarian assistance right now to save and protect lives," said IOM Director General Amy Pope in a statement sent to Journalists, stressing the need to address the root causes of the violence and instability.
Armed gangs within Haiti now have near-total control over the capital Port-auPrince and wide remit over the rest of the country. An international mission approved last year tasked with restoring order has so far seen just a fraction of troops deploying, although two contingents of Guatemalan soldiers arrived this month to boost the mis-
sion's forces.
IOM spokesperson Kennedy Okoth Omondi told a Geneva press briefing that spaces in shelters were running short, with many struggling to obtain basic services like food and water. Deportations of migrants from The Dominican Republic and elsewhere have added to the strain on communities, he added.
"What has really made this worse is the fact that we have seen over and over deportation still occurring back to Haiti, where communities are already struggling to basically survive," he said.
(Reuters)
Brazil says Meta hate speech policy changes do not fit with local law
Brazil's Government said on Tuesday it was "seriously concerned" about Meta Platforms' recently-announced changes to its hate speech policy, adding that it believes they do not comply with the country's legislation.
Facebook owner Meta last week reduced curbs on discussions around contentious topics such as immigration and gender identity, while also scrapping its fact-checking programme in the United States.
The Brazilian government ordered the social
media company, which also owns Instagram and Threads, to explain its plans, which President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva had previously labelled "extremely serious".
Brazil is a top market for Meta, where Government data show Facebook alone has about 100 million active users. Social media platform X was temporarily suspended in the country last year for not complying with local law.
The Government did not immediately clarify which aspects of Meta's policy might be illegal, but said
the latest changes "could represent fertile ground for the violation of laws that protect fundamental rights of Brazilian citizens". Local legislation forbids some forms of hate speech, such as racial slurs and remarks that attack people for their religion.
Meta in a letter to the South American country reiterated that changes to the fact-checking programme for now would only apply to the US, and said that changes to its community standards were "limited" to the hate speech policy.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
T&T PM: Fearful Police Officers hiding in stations from criminals
Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley says some Police Officers are now pretending to close stations to hide from criminals.
He made the comment day on Monday as the Parliament debated the rationale for the State of Emergency (SoE) and a further three-month extension to it in separate motions.
The Prime Minister said criminals had become so brazen that they believe they can, without fear, shoot and kill even the Police.
“So when officers are in the Police stations, it has come to my attention, in some districts, in some instances, Police Officers whose job it is to protect us and secure us, in some districts at night, are so afraid of the criminals that they close the police station door, turn off the light, and be inside there hoping that the criminals don’t come at them,” Rowley revealed.
He added, “When citizens identifying themselves as law breakers choose as their place of attack to be in front of a Police station inside the city, and to carry
out an attack using the most sophisticated killing weapons, it tells you they have no regard for law enforcement in our society.”
He said this has led to the belief that the regular laws are not sufficient to treat with the harshness of the criminal element.
Contacted for a response on the PM’s claim, T&T Police Service Social and Welfare Association
President Gideon Dickson said he had no reports of any such incident, adding the matter would have to be addressed by Commissioner of Police Erla HarewoodChristopher or the deputy commissioners.
Efforts to reach Harewood-Christopher, DCP Junior Benjamin for comment were unsuccessful. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)
Cuba to release 553 prisoners following talks with Vatican
Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel said on Tuesday his Government would "gradually" release 553 prisoners following talks with the Vatican, a decision announced just hours after the Biden Administration said it would loosen a host of sanctions on the island.
Cuba praised Biden`s decision to ease restrictions as "correct", but said the actions may be too little, too late, adding future US administrations could reverse them.
Cuba faced sharp criticism from rights groups, the United States and the European Union following
the imprisonment of hundreds of protesters after riots on July 11, 2021, the largest since Castro's revolution.
It was not immediately clear whether the prisoners to be released had been detained following those protests.
A Cuban Foreign Ministry statement said the decision reflected the "humanitarian nature of the Cuban justice system", but did not tie the prisoner release to the Biden announcements.
Cuba has been discussing the possibility of a prisoner amnesty with Vatican officials since at least 2023.
The Vatican has proved the linchpin in prior negotiations to release prisoners from the island's jails. It also helped broker the historic resumption of ties between Cuba and the United States in 2015 under former President Barack Obama.
"There is broad bipartisan support from both parties and certainly both administrations that people in Cuba should not be unjustly detained," a senior Biden official said on Tuesday.
Cuba maintains that those imprisoned following the 2021 protests had committed crimes ranging from vandalism to sedition.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
The Cuban and US flags beside the US Embassy in Havana, Cuba (Reuters/Alexandre Meneghini file photo)
A man carrying his belongings observes the wreckages of vehicles burnt over the weekend by armed gangs in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, December 9, 2024 (Reuters/Ralph Tedy Erol photo)
Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley speaks during the debate on the State of Emergency. Also in the picture are Finance Minister Colm Imbert (left) and Attorney General Reginald Armour
Oil prices slip on US energy demand forecast
OGaza ceasefire appears close as US, Egyptian leaders put focus on 'coming hours'
Negotiators were near to hammering out the final details of a ceasefire in Gaza on Wednesday after marathon talks in Qatar, and the US and Egyptian leaders promised to stay in close contact about a deal over the coming hours.
But a senior Hamas official told Reuters late on Tuesday that the Palestinian group had not delivered its response yet, because it was still waiting for Israel to submit maps showing how its forces would withdraw from Gaza.
il prices slipped on Tuesday after a US Government agency forecast steady US oil demand in 2025 while lifting its forecast for supply.
Declines were limited by new US sanctions on Russian oil exports to India and China.
Brent futures fell US$1.09, or 1.35 per cent, to settle at US$79.92 a barrel. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude finished at US$77.50 a barrel, down US$1.32, or 1.67 per cent.
On Monday, prices jumped two per cent after the US Treasury Department on Friday imposed sanctions on Gazprom Neft and Surgutneftegas as well as 183 vessels that transport oil as part of Russia's so-called shadow fleet of tankers.
On Tuesday, the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) said the country's oil demand would remain steady at 20.5 million barrels per day (bpd) in 2025 and 2026, with domestic oil output rising to 13.55 million bpd, an increase from the agency's previous forecast of 13.52 million bpd for this year.
Phil Flynn, senior analyst with Price Futures Group, said markets were anticipating the EIA short-term energy outlook to see if a predicted gain in supply would be reversed.
"They're waiting to see if the glut EIA predicted earlier is still in the forecast," Flynn said.
While analysts were still expecting a significant price impact on Russian oil supplies from the fresh sanctions, their effect on the physical market could be less pronounced than what the affected volumes might suggest.
ING analysts estimated the new sanctions had the potential to erase the entire 700,000-bpd surplus they had forecast for this year, but said the real impact could be lower.
"The actual reduction in flows will likely be less, as Russia and buyers find ways around these sanctions," they said in a note.
Uncertainty about demand from major buyer China could blunt the impact of the tighter supply. China's crude oil imports fell in 2024 for the first time in two decades, outside of the COVID-19 pandemic, official data showed on Monday. (Reuters)
Special counsel report found Trump engaged in “criminal effort” to overturn 2020 election
US Special Counsel
Jack Smith concluded that Donald Trump engaged in an "unprecedented criminal effort" to hold on to power after losing the 2020 election, but was thwarted in bringing the case to trial by the President-elect's November election victory, according to a report published on Tuesday.
The report details Smith's decision to bring a four-count indictment against Trump, accusing him of plotting to obstruct the collection and certification of votes following his 2020 defeat by Democratic President Joe Biden.
It concludes that the evidence would have been enough to convict Trump at trial, but his imminent return to the presidency, set for January 20, made that impossible.
Smith, who has faced relentless criticism from Trump, also defended his
investigation and the prosecutors who worked on it.
"The claim from Mr Trump that my decisions as a prosecutor were influenced or directed by the Biden Administration or other political actors is, in a word, laughable," Smith wrote in a letter detailing his report.
After the release, Trump, in a post on his Truth Social site, called Smith a "lamebrain prosecutor who was unable to get his case tried before the election".
Trump's lawyers, in a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland made public by the Justice Department, called the report a "politically-motivated attack" and said releasing it ahead of Trump's return to the White House would harm the presidential transition.
Much of the evidence cited in the report has been previously made public.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
More than eight hours of talks in Doha had fuelled optimism. Officials from mediators Qatar, Egypt and the US as well as Israel and Hamas said an agreement for a truce in the besieged enclave and release of hostages was closer than ever.
Qatar's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed AlAnsari earlier told a news conference that both sides were presented with a text and talks on the last details were under way.
US President Joe Biden, whose Administration has been taking part alongside an envoy of President-elect Donald Trump, said a deal was close.
Biden and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah ElSisi talked about progress in the negotiations on Tuesday.
"Both leaders committed to remain in close coordination directly and through their teams over the coming hours," the White House said in a statement after the leaders' telephone call.
The two Presidents "emphasised the urgent need for a deal to be implemented".
Hamas said the talks had reached the final steps and it hoped this round of negotiations would lead to a deal.
LA fires: Santa Ana hurricane-force winds could intensify wildfires
Firefighters on Tuesday held the line against two massive wildfires that have ravaged parts of Los Angeles for the past week, even as desert winds and a parched landscape presented extremely hazardous conditions.
Some 8500 firefighters from at least seven states and two foreign countries prevented the fires from growing for a second straight day as they gained slightly more control of the perimeter of the blazes, which nonetheless have consumed an area the size of Washington, D.C.
A fleet of aircraft dropped water and retardant into the rugged hills while ground crews with hand tools and hoses have worked around the clock since the fires broke out on January 7, with the aircraft occasionally grounded by high winds.
The Palisades Fire on the west edge of town held steady at 23,713 acres (96 square km) burned, and containment increased three percentage points to 17 per cent – a measurement of how much of the perimeter was under control.
The Eaton Fire in the
foothills east of the city stood at 14,117 acres (57 sq km) with containment up 2 points to 35 per cent.
Southern California has lacked any appreciable rain since April, turning brush into tinder as Santa Ana winds originating from the deserts whipped over hilltops and rushed through canyons, sending embers flying up to two miles (three kilometres) ahead of the fires. The death toll from the fires rose by one on Tuesday to 25, according to the Las Angeles medical examiner's office. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Ukraine launches largest attack of war so far, Kyiv claims
Ukraine struck several targets deep inside Russia on Tuesday in what it says is its "most massive" attack of the war so far.
Ammunition depots and chemical plants were hit across several regions, some of which were hundreds of kilometres from the border, according to the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces.
Sources in Ukraine's SBU intelligence agency told the BBC the overnight attack was a "painful blow" to Russia's ability to wage war.
Russia said it had shot down US-supplied Atacms missiles as well as UK-made Storm Shadow cruise missiles, and vowed to respond to the attack.
Strikes in the border region of Bryansk caused explosions at a refinery, ammunition depots and a chemical plant said to produce gunpowder and explosives, a Ukrainian security source told the BBC.
But Kyiv also struck far deeper into the country, with the General Staff claiming to have hit targets up to 1100km (700 miles) from the border.
In the western region of Saratov, officials reported a "massive" drone attack.
Two industrial plants in the cities of Engels and Saratov were damaged, regional governor Roman Busargin wrote on Telegram. (Excerpt from BBC News)
An Israeli official said talks had reached a critical phase although some details needed to be worked out: "We are close, we are not there yet." (Excerpt from Reuters)
Palestinians inspect the site of an Israeli strike on a house amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, January 14, 2025 (Reuters/Hatem Khaled photo)
At least nine airports in central and western Russia temporarily halted traffic, while the strikes prompted schools in the southwestern Saratov region to close.
Ukraine claims the attack was its "most massive" of the war so far (file photo)
A search and rescue team searches the remains of a home burned by the Palisades Fire, in the Pacific Palisades neighbourhood in Los Angeles, California, US January, 14, 2025 (Reuters/David Ryder)
Getting involved in something physical can be exhilarating but also dangerous if you aren’t physically ready to give your all. Take care of time-sensitive paperwork and bureaucratic or health issues.
You can run but can’t hide. Stop putting matters off and burning energy worrying when taking care of business; it will set you free. It’s time to start anew and to find what makes you happy.
Keep your feet firmly planted and your outlook practical. The choices you make today will shape what’s to come. Gather the facts and initiate whatever helps keep you on track.
Put everything you’ve got into getting ahead. Refrain from letting anyone sidetrack or push you in a direction that doesn’t offer substantial benefits. Follow your heart.
Refuse to let your emotions take charge or cause you to make an inappropriate decision. Sitting with what you have is sometimes better than a replacement with no track record.
Take a moment to plan your day and to ensure you get to spend quality time with people who make you happy or stimulate your mind. Say no to temptation and indulgent behavior.
Assess what’s happening around you and distance yourself from anything or anyone draining your energy instead of benefiting from your help. When one door closes, another will open.
Live, learn and laugh. How you spend your time matters, and making choices that resonate with you mentally, physically and financially will put your mind at ease.
Take a moment to figure out who is on your side and who isn’t. Expect nothing, and you won’t be disappointed. Stay focused on what’s best for you and walk away from drama and people trying to tempt you.
Hit the road and see what happens. A little charm and discipline, along with imagination and showmanship, will grab attention and garner support. Don’t be afraid to strut your stuff.
Find an opening and use your voice to get what you want. Change begins with you. Convincing others that you are doing something they’ll want to be a part of will help you stabilize your position.
Get out and do things that excite you. Someone you encounter will offer a lucrative suggestion. Don’t hesitate to deepen your involvement with people who make you feel alive.
ARCHIE
Olympic champion Julien Alfred confirmed for Wanda Diamond League meets in June
St. Lucian Olympic 100m champion Julien
Alfred will contest a key part of her Wanda Diamond League title defense with appearances at the Bislett Games in Oslo and BAUHAUS Galan in Stockholm this June.
Alfred, 23, stormed to 100m gold and 200m silver at the Olympic Games in Paris last year, winning the first ever medals for St. Lucia and establishing herself among the biggest names in the sport. She also showed brilliant form in the Wanda Diamond League by claiming victory in her first ever meeting in Monaco, before sweeping to the 100m series title at the final in Brussels.
She will be out to defend her Diamond League Trophy in 2025, with Oslo and Stockholm providing two early opportunities to get points on the board on the road to this year's final in Zurich.
Alfred will compete at BAUHAUS Galan in the Swedish capital on June 12, before taking the train with fellow athletes across the border to Norway, for the Bislett Games on June 15.
"Visiting the Scandinavian countries is one
International League
of my dreams. I look forward to feeling the hospitality from the Scandinavian spectators, and hope to live up to the standard of these two meetings and to give them a memorable performance," Alfred has said.
She added that Diamond League appearances against the world's best athletes would be crucial as she sets her sights on a first outdoor world title at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo in September.
"The upcoming Diamond League season is very important, because I won’t be having any trials for the World Championships. So, I hope these races put me closer to my goals for Japan," she said.
The Wanda Diamond League is the elite oneday meeting series in global athletics. It comprises 15 of the most prestigious events in global track and field. Athletes compete for points at the 14 series meetings in a bid to qualify for the twoday Wanda Diamond League Final, which will be held in Zurich on 27th and 28th August 2025.
(Sportsmax)
T20
in Dubai… Rutherford stars as Desert Vipers trump Gulf Giants
Guyanese Sherfane
Rutherford continued his recent good form with an 18-ball 40* to help the Desert Vipers record a comfortable six-wicket win over fellow Guyanese Shimron Hetmyer’s Gulf Giants in International League T20 (ILT20) action at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.
Rutherford hit three fours and three sixes while sharing in a match-winning 55-run fifth-wicket partnership with fellow left-hander Sam Curran, who top scored with a patient 43-ball 42*
that included four fours and a six. Chasing just 120 for victory, the Vipers reached 121-4 with two balls remaining in the 18th over.
Mark Adair was the only Giants bowler who had any real success on the day, as he took 2-12 from his four overs.
Earlier, the Giants were restricted to 119-9 from their 20 overs, after Vipers captain Lockie Ferguson won the toss and chose to field first. James Vince played a lone hand with 76* off 62 balls, which included five fours and two sixes. Aayan Afzal Khan, with 15, was the
only other batsman to get into double figures, as captain Ferguson’s pace was too much for the batsmen to handle.
Ferguson finished with 3-22 from his four overs, and was well supported by Mohammad Amir, who took 2-23 from his four overs.
A second win in as many games moves the Vipers to the top of the table, while the Giants are second from bottom after their second loss to start the season. (Adapted from Sportsmax)
Khan, 15.4 ov), 9-119 (Tymal Mills, 19.6 ov) Bowling O-M-R-W Mohammad Amir 4-0-23-2 Luke Wood 4-0-30-1
St Lucia’s Julien Alfred, leading the pack
Sherfane Rutherford hit an unbeaten 40 off just 18 balls
Ali Naseer took a brilliant catch to send back Shimron Hetmyer off Lockie Ferguson's bowling
Sam Curran held the Vipers' chase together
Chatargum, Persaud top 2024
Senior Barebow Open tourney
…historical landmark achieved with physiotherapist’s presence
Archery Guyana brought the curtains down on the 2024 Senior Barebow Open tournament, contested at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue in Georgetown on Sunday, January 12, 2025.
Archery Guyana has recorded notable achievements during this competition. This was the first time one of its competitions has been streamed live, and this was also the first time it has utilised the globally recognised IANSEO software for live scoring. This technology ensures immediate updates of results, offering real-time insights for athletes, coaches and fans alike.
A missive from Archery Guyana detailed that everyone was treated to thrilling performances as archers vied for top honours.
Complete results are as follows:
Barebow Men
Mehandra ChatargumGold
Gregory McKoy – Silver
Nolan Gray - Bronze
Barebow Women
Juanita Persaud - Gold
Roshini Boodhoo - Silver Melesa RamnaraineBronze
At the presentation ceremony, Director of Shooting, Mr. Ryan McKinnon, delivered closing remarks, and medals were presented to the winners while Lancaster caps were given to the finalists. Archery Guyana President Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon also expressed gratitude to the Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sport, the Honourable Charles Ramson; Director
JFF confirms two friendlies between Reggae Boyz, Soca Warriors in February
The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) has confirmed that the Reggae Boyz would play two friendly matches against the Trinidad and Tobago Soca Warriors on February 6 and 9 in Jamaica.
The match on February 6 would be played at the Montego Bay Sports Complex from 7:30pm, while the fixture on February 9 would be played at the Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex in Kingston from 8pm. Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago are both using these games as preparation for the CONCACAF Gold Cup Prelims, which are slated for March.
Jamaica will face St. Vincent and the Grenadines for a spot in the Group stages of the Gold Cup, while Trinidad and Tobago will face Cuba.
President of the Jamaica
Football Federation, Michael Ricketts, speaking on the importance of these fixtures, has said, “Our Head Coach, Mr. McClaren, expressed from last year a desire for an opportunity to analyze the domestic-based players on the island, and we have worked assiduously to arrange these fixtures and camps, which will take place leading into these games. This is the 3rd year in a row we have kicked off with games vs Trinidad, and each year has been beneficial. 2023 prepared us for the Gold Cup and Nations League campaigns, while last year we saw how useful this was ahead of the Nations League and the World Cup Qualifiers. This year is no different, as Coach McClaren and the technical staff fine tune preparations for the World Cup Qualifiers which resume in June.”
(Sportsmax)
of Sport Mr. Steve Ninvalle; National Sports Commission President Godfrey Munroe and the Executive Committee of the Guyana Olympic Association; Mr. Samuel Arjoon of Guyana Beverages Inc. and Oasis Water; Ms. Vanessa Wickham of the National Sports Clinic, and Dr. Ariane Mangar of the Ministry of Health, Physiotherapist Stowell Barry and members of the media for their invaluable support.
Next weekend, the auditorium of the Cyril Potter College of Education would come alive with action in the 2024 Senior RECURVE Open.
Saturday January 18th would see the ranking rounds being conducted, and Sunday January 19th would witness the Eliminations and Finals.
All Guyanese Archers are invited to participate.
Meanwhile, For the first time in the history of Archery Guyana, a professional physiotherapist was present at the Archery Nationals, providing essential support to athletes during the prestigious event. This groundbreaking initiative is a testament to the Federation’s commitment to athlete wellness and high-performance standards.
This historic collaboration was made possible through the invaluable support of Ms. Vanessa Wickham of the
National Sports Clinic and Dr. Ariane Mangar of the Ministry of Health. Physiotherapist Stowell Barry, a skilled professional with a passion for sports therapy, delivered tailored treatments to the athletes, ensuring their optimal performance and minimising injury risks.
“We are thrilled to have taken this important step forward in athlete care,” said Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon President of Archery Guyana. “This initiative underscores our dedication to support-
ing our athletes both on and off the field. Special thanks go to Ms. Vanessa Wickham, Dr. Ariane Mangar and the Ministry of Health for making this possible. We also commend the exceptional work of physiotherapist Stowell Barry, who played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of this initiative.
"The essential role of the physiotherapist in sport is critical at all levels. Our goal is to provide the best treatment and rehabilitation of injuries to athletes pre-, post-
BCCI set to limit families' presence on India's tours
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is all set to implement stricter protocols for the Indian cricket team. Among these would be limiting the time players spend with their families on tour, and barring independent transport for players while commuting for practice and matches.
On tours of 45 days or more, players' immediate families - partners and children - can be with them for no more than 14 days, and not at all during the first two weeks of the tour. On shorter tours, families can accompany players for up to a week.
These directions have been part of player contracts, but were relaxed during the Covid-19 pandemic, when players were given the option to make their families part of the team bubble, keeping their mental health in mind.
India captain Rohit Sharma, head coach Gautam Gambhir and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar met the BCCI office bearers in Mumbai on Saturday for the first time after the tour of Australia, and the team leadership was informed of the return to the earlier protocols.
Part of these protocols also mandates that all players travel in the team bus, a time-honoured practice which is said to have been flouted by some players in the re-
cent past. As things stand, the BCCI pays for the families' accommodation on tour, but not their travel. There will be no change made to that policy, provided the duration and the timing of the stay meet the protocols.
Sports associations have long grappled with the issue: should players' partners and children be allowed to travel with them? And for how long? Chennai Super Kings in the IPL is an example of the families' presence working for the team, but there have been countless examples of teams banning partners at the team accommodation.
Brazil won the 2019 Copa America when partners' visits were banned. Then there is the case of Australia's swimmers, who openly criticised a
similar ban during the 2012 Olympics, complaining of loneliness and demotivation.
Indian cricket has had no set answers to this question. The last time the presence of families was discussed was in 2018, when the then captain, Virat Kohli, was reported to have requested a relaxation of the norms.
The current coach, Gambhir, told India Today then: "The player opinion varies. Only an individual can say, because the individual has to play a Test match. Some want family to be there for the whole tour, while others want little family time as they try to concentrate. Whatever the decision, it should be taken in the best interest of Indian cricket."
(ESPNCricinfo)
and during competition, and to provide performance support through injury prevention, maintenance and recovery interventions.
“The National Sports Clinic commits to working with Archery Guyana and we are excited to be a part of this great collaboration."
Archery Guyana remains committed to further integrating sports science into its programmes. By continuously enhancing support for athletes, the Federation is paving the way for greater achievements in the sport, both locally and internationally.
Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz will take on Trinidad’s Soca Warriors in a pair of friendlies
Limits on families' presence have been part of player contracts, but were relaxed during the Covid-19 pandemic
Physiotherapist Vanessa Wickham
2024 Senior Barebow Gold Medalist Juanita Persaud (women) and Mehandra Chatargum (men) (C) flanked by silver and bronze medalists
After two gruelling days of trials at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH), Guyana’s National Basketball Team has been whittled down to 15 players, signalling the first step towards a critical international campaign.
Nations Cup tournament in Suriname…
National basketball team down to 15 after intense trials
Reflecting on the trials, Coach Hooper said, “These two days have been intense. The players brought their ‘A’ game, making my job of narrowing down the roster extremely difficult. But that’s a good problem to have; it shows the depth of talent we have in Guyana.”
President of the GBF, in expressing his excitement at Guyana participating in the Nations Cup, has emphasised its importance as a developmental and preparatory event.
The 15 players shortlisted comprise Stanton Rose, Domair Gladstone and Kimol Grimmond of the Untouchables; Orlan Glasgow, Harold Adams, Jushawn Bayley and Yannick Tappin of the Royals; Travis Belgrave, Denzel Ross and Zian Gray of the Eagles; Nikkoloi Smith and Shamaar Huntley of the Ravens; Shane Webster and Oquacey Shortt of the Colts, and Jermaine Slater of the Kobras. Initially, 23 players were invited to the trials, making the final selection process an exceptionally competitive one.
The challenging task of leading this talented squad to the Nations Cup tournament which will be held in Paramaribo, Suriname from January 24–27 devolves on Head Coach Adrian Hooper and Assistant Coach Marlon Rodrigues. Guyana is scheduled to oppose Suriname and Grenada in what the Guyana Basketball Federation promises to be an exciting start to the year.
The selection process is far from over, however, as the team would undergo two more training sessions this week before the final 12 players are announced on Friday.
“We’re committed to selecting the best possible team, not just to compete, but to win,” Hooper added. “I’m confident that when we regroup this weekend and head to Suriname, these players will be ready to give their all and make Guyana proud.”
The tournament in Suriname holds immense significance, not just for the players, but also for the broader basketball community in Guyana. Michael Singh,
Amateur Boxing’s ‘most important local event’ billed for this weekend
The Terrence Ali National Open Boxing Championship, serving a twofold purpose, is expected to engulf the National Gymnasium with exhilarating boxing action this weekend, running from January 17-19 at the Mandela Avenue venue.
Acting as both the culmination of the 2024 season and commencement of the 2025 season for the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA), the event - which was postponed from its initial start date of December 12, 2024 - is expected to feature participation from notable gyms such as the Andrew ‘Six Heads’ Lewis Gym, Forgotten Youth Foundation (FYF), Guyana Defence Force (GDF), the Guyana Police Force (GPF), New Amsterdam Academy, Pace and Power, Pocket Rocket, Republicans, Rose Hall, Vergenoegen, and Young Achievers. Additionally, several of Guyana’s star pugilists on the amateur circuit are set to feature in this weekend’s action among whom are Desmond Amsterdam, Colin Lewis and Abiola Jackman.
Regarded by the GBA as the most important competition on the sport’s local calendar, the National Open will be the first major championship under the GBA umbrella since the unexpected passing of the entity’s long-serving technical director, Terrence Poole MS, on October 3rd, 2024.
It will also be the first tournament for GDF without the services of Poole, who served in the capacity of head trainer and was directly responsible for their overall dominance on the local circuit. This will be a major angle and talking point as to whether GDF can maintain their hegemonic status.
“As the most important local event in our discipline, the Terrence Ali National Open Championship has the distinct honour of serving as the conclusion of the 2024 season and the beginning of the 2025 calendar of activities. The championship has historically functioned as a link or conduit between amateur and professional competitions, and its significance has appropriately increased with each iteration, given that it showcases the best of Guyana and provides an insight into our current and near future in the amateur or potential professional ranks,” GBA President Steve Ninvalle said about the upcoming event.
“In light of coach Terrence Poole's recent death in October 2024, one of the main topics that will be covered and examined during the tournament is whether GDF can continue to dominate. Although everyone has experienced loss, boxing is a competitive sport, where losing a coach can be especially distressing. In contrast to team sports, where established roles offer a structure for
continuity, boxing is often based on the intensely intimate and frequently complex bond between a trainer and his fighters. In addition to being a strategist, the coach serves as a confidante, mentor, source of inspiration and objective critical eye.”
The GBA Boss further shared, “Unquestionably, behind the success of every champion or successful pugilist is a dedicated team, and the coach is the central figure of that group, and in this case, the person who engineered their success. Terrence Poole has guided the GDF team to the top in his time. We will have to see how current champions carry on from here."
The first bell in the Terrence Ali National Open will be sounded at 19:00hrs each night. The weigh-in session for the competing pugilists is scheduled for tomorrow (Thursday) at the same venue.
“This tour is the start of early preparations for our national team, and it provides an excellent opportunity to measure the standard of our local game,” Singh has said. “By focusing on our locally-based players for this tournament, we aim to identify and develop talent here at home, giving them the exposure needed to compete at the international level. This approach will allow us to integrate overseas-based players into future engagements with a stronger foundation.”
Highlighting the impact of the ongoing “One Guyana” Premier Basketball League, Singh has said, “Our players have been competing at a high level domestically, and this has provided the GBF with a robust pool of talent to work with. The Nations Cup will give us valuable insights into how our local players match up against regional competition.”
The Nations Cup serves as a critical step in Guyana’s preparations to defend its title at the Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) Championship, and Singh has revealed that the GBF is planning its own version of the Nations Cup in May, when three other CBC teams would be competing in Guyana.
“This year promises to be one of the most active and exciting periods for Guyana’s National Basketball Team,” Singh has said. “We’re eager to see how this team performs and how these tournaments will shape the future of basketball in our country.”
Both Singh and Coach Hooper believe the Nations Cup would undoubtedly test the senior men’s team as they prepare for back-to-back games against regional rivals. According to Hooper, with a mix of veteran leadership and emerging talent, Guyana is poised to make a strong statement in Paramaribo, and Guyanese players are eager to seize the opportunity to represent their nation on the international stage.
The fortunes of hockey in 2025…
GHB plans to expand reach, Sport Minister Ramson plans to assist in development
Guyana Hockey Board (GHB) President Philip Fernandes has shared with Guyana Times Sport plans to expand the playing of hockey throughout Guyana, but has said the GHB still faces challenges with facilities.
Fernandes said, “While we do have long-term aspirations of introducing the sport throughout Guyana, it is a sport that requires access to well-maintained grass fields in the absence of artificial grass fields. This creates a great challenge, as most of the fields in rural areas are utilised by cricket. As a result, the short-term goal is to expand the player base in and around the capital, and expand outwards organically.
“Hockey has gone as far as Uitvlugt, Linden and New Amsterdam in the past, and hopefully, we can revive the game at least in those areas over the next year or two.”
As he expounded on the GHB 2025 calendar of activities, Fernandes indicated that the international competitions would commence in March for the under-21 girls and boys, while the local competition would start on January 26 with the Bounty One-Day Championships.
“On the international calendar, we have our under-21 girls’ and boys’ teams attending the Junior Pan Am Challenge in Barbados in March. Those teams are trying to qualify for the next Junior Pan Am Games, which are scheduled for August in Paraguay. It would be a first Junior Pan Am for hockey if either qualifies,” Fernandes related.
“Our senior men's and women's teams will travel to the Dominican Republic in May to compete in the CAC
qualifiers. A top-two finish in these qualifiers will earn them entrance to the next CAC Games in 2026, also in the Dominican Republic,” he disclosed.
Fernandes has revealed that, on the local scene, heavy focus would again be placed on the development of junior players with the ICool schools’ tournament and, later in the year, the national schools’ championships. He said the local calendar is set to start on January 26th with the usual Bounty one-day championships, which would be followed by the men's, women's, and second-division leagues.
A full calendar of local events, both indoors and outdoors, would be played, with the final event of the year being the staging of the 20th Anniversary Diamond Mineral Water Indoor Championships, which are anticipated to draw many foreign teams to visit Guyana at the end of November to compete.
At the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport’s yearend presser held at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) last Saturday, Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jnr disclosed that the Hockey Federation would be installing a turf at the South Ruimveldt facility within the next two months, and it is expected that that
would alleviate the GHB’s facility woes. He also disclosed that the Ministry would be assisting to make the facility more family-friendly. The Minister said, “If you go into South right now, on Orealla Avenue, you will see a tarmac there just completed, and we just installed lights there too.
So, the Hockey Federation is going to be putting in a turf there within the next three weeks or so. They were able to get a (lot) in Orealla Street at South Ruimveldt Gardens. So, we built a basketball court, and we just built a tarmac. They got the turf donated from Canada. One of them, a Guyanese guy, actually was the captain of the team. He was able to get a turf donated. It's already in the country. So, we're waiting for three weeks for the concrete to cure. And once that's done, they’re gonna be laying in the turf there, and they now have the lights. We intend to do some additional work around the space so that it can make it, maybe put in some crush and run to make it more friendly towards persons who are moving in, and turnstile access and stuff. So, within the next two months, you should be getting maybe an invitation to come and see them play hockey at the facility there.” (Omar McKenzie)
GBA President Steve Ninvalle
Eagles forward Travis Belgrave (left) and Kobras ‘big man’ Jermain Slater going head-to-head during the GBF two-day trials
