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Kaieteur News
Wednesday February 14, 2024
Wednesday February 14, 2024
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Day 7 of teachers’ strike... Labour Ministry failing to fulfill role
as mediator between Union and MOE - GTU President
GTU President, Mark Lyte Teachers in Linden on the protest line on Tuesday
Teachers continued their demonstration outside the Region Three office on Tuesday On the seventh day of the nationwide teachers’ strike, President of the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) Mark Lyte is chiding the Ministry of Labour for failing to fulfill its mandate as a mediator between the Union that represents the striking teachers and the Ministry of Education (MOE). Lyte noted that the Labour Ministry headed by
Minister Joseph Hamilton has opted to take the side of the Ministry of Education. “The Minister of Labour had a responsibility and does have a responsibility to act as a mediator with his ministry and resolve the impasse… it is not his place to take a government position,” the GTU Head said on a live stream via the GTU’s Facebook page on Tuesday. Lyte noted that the
Ministry of Labour is supposed to bring the two sides together and engage them with the aim to have the situation returned to normalcy. “The Chief Labour
Officer and Minister have so far acted in an unprofessional manner by taking the side of the Ministry of Education rather than be a neutral party. The function of the Ministry of
labour is to act as a mediator and in this regard, they have failed the Guyanese teachers. They are supposed to act maturely, sincerely and fairly in bringing an end to this impasse,” Lyte said. The GTU head said too that, “The issue is that teachers are not satisfied with the salary increases that were meted out to them…The political divide is stifling this nation, there seems to be this thing that is where the government is saying we will not engage the Union because in our mind, the strike is political.” He reminded that when the government was in opposition, it supported the teachers’ call for collective bargaining.
Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton “Collective bargaining has to do with the body that represents the interest of one grouping of people for a particular cause; in this case, the GTU is that body. Now, they are in command and in power, they don’t want to engage the Union on the Continued on page 9
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Wednesday February 14, 2024
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL - Tel: 624-6456 Editor-in-Chief: Nigel Williams Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
The strike continues The President and other sympathizers of the government are concerned about teachers being on strike and its effects on children who are left on their own. The Ministry of Education has also expressed concerns about learning loss on the part of the young ones. It is a fair position, one with obvious merits, but there is similar certainty that teachers currently engaged in strike action would have their own position as a counter: how about some fairness to us for the effort that is put in? Whether the minister or a teacher is speaking and highlighting their own priorities, there is a compelling case that could be made for either side. There can be no question that the children in the public schools impacted feeling the effects of teachers absent from their institutions of learning. When 80% of the teachers in the schools’ system absented themselves from duty, there is no way that the impact is negligible, or that it is just another day at school. When four out of five teachers are on a strike, then the reality is that instructing and learning in schools come to a virtual standstill, and the children are left hanging. From the standpoint of teachers, their concerns have been given the royal runaround. In this current strike, all they have asked for is for the government to come to the table to engage in collective bargaining. However, instead of engaging, the government has sought to demonise the Guyana Teachers’ Union, going as far as using state bodies to release information on the union’s financial affairs. Additionally, the Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand who ought to be on the side of her teachers have used her social media platform to malign them and even gaslight the situation on the ground. It is clear to everyone that the government has been heavy-handed, and acts unilaterally. Last year’s meeting convened by President Irfaan Ali and selected teachers is a case in point. Yet on Sunday, he again urged teachers to be patient. Teachers could claim that they have been patient with their issues held in suspension for an extended period. They are issues with considerable teeth: better pay, gratuity enhancements, duty-free concessions, and hinterland benefits and grants. In the present situation, the government cannot cry poverty, as there is considerable oil money flowing in and out of Guyana’s Natural Resource Fund. Teachers believe that what they are asking and fighting for is more than reasonable, given the massive sums that are spent on infrastructure, but so little being centered on people, who give so much day in and day out, and under all kinds of conditions. Our position at this paper should be familiar to all as it has been broadcast countless times: Guyana must renegotiate the horrendous 2016 ExxonMobil oil contract, so that there is more to give to the Guyanese people. This involves our thousands of teachers, plus others in different occupations across this oil rich country. As far as President of the GTU, Mark Lyte is concerned, the union is prepared to extend the industrial action beyond the two-week time frame until their concerns are addressed. He said too that the GTU is looking into its legal options to defend teachers against some of the measures taken against them by the Ministry of Education. Lyte reminded that industrial action can take various forms, if the ministry and by extension the government fails to address the concerns of teachers. “Even if teachers return to the classroom, we can actually do a lot of things to show our dissatisfaction with the manner in which we have been treated.” While all of this is playing out, the children who should be absorbing their lessons are caught in this crossfire. There must be a meeting of the minds to close this out quickly.
Freddie Kissoon’s Contretemps DEAR EDITOR, A fun-filled and frivolous Freddie Kissoon is at it again. But first, I want readers to revisit his September 2008 article “The nature of power: The Chronicle then and now.” Honestly, sometimes I am loath to deem his highschoolish dabblings as ‘articles,’ ‘columns,’ and ‘commentaries’, etc. So, look at this excerpt: “Countless pages have flowed from the pen of the P e o p l e ’s P r o g r e s s i v e Party/Civic’s (PPP/C’s) functionaries about the nature of newspapers in the sixties-the owners used them to instill their ideology, their agenda. Today, the very PPP that excoriated media owners of the sixties has a similar style when it comes to domination and propaganda. What the Argosy and Chronicle were like in the sixties is what the Chronicle, NCN television and NCN radio are today. Guess who is in charge of all three?” Please note that many ‘PPPites,’ during the Granger era, referred to the Chronicle as the “Daily Rag.” Plus, if ever the Chronicle, during all of the previous PPP/C years, had a verbally violent attacker, it was the said Freddie Kissoon. And by the way, I am so pleased that Kaieteur News’ Freddie Kissoon’s columns are readily accessible. I hope
someone will collate all and offer them in book-form, just so that the common, noninternet folks, can enjoy the comedy that now is so effusive therein. That excerpt continues: “Look at the Chronicle letter columns in these times (and I add in the post 2020 tenure of the PPP/C). Five pieces are penned each day by writers using false names. In almost all instances, the signatures are not Indian names but Christian ones. This is to create the impression that quite a large number of nonIndians support the PPP because look how many of them write missives in the Chronicle, eulogizing the Guyana Government. Out of those five, one must be on Frederick Kissoon.” For now, the letters are fewer and monotonic and Freddie has at least a temporary haven. Editor, now I go to the article, “The antigovernment editorial writer of the Stabroek News,” by Freddie Kissoon on February 6, 2024. Freddie noted that “Twice I heard Timothy Jonas, the General Secretary of the opposition party, ANUG, refer to the Chronicle as a rag. In one instance, I took him up when he repeated it on the Freddie Kissoon Gildarie Show. Mr. Jonas is yet to define what is meant by a newspaper being a rag. When he does, the debate will start, and I will jump into it.”
We l l , I k n o w t h a t Timothy Jonas will not waste time browbeating a puerile school boy. In fact, all he has to do is point readers to Freddie’s view about the PPP/C’s Chronicle. So, to counter his senseless challenge, all that TJ has to do is to ask him, Freddie Kissoon, to explain why he was, during the pre2020 PPP/C tenures, so “… consistently vulgar and irrational (as a selfappointed opposition spokesman, that his helpless penchant was in overdrive, that he was) “… blind and malicious (in his) condemnations of the elected (PPP/C) Government of the day.” Editor, only then, then I, (like Freddie) “would like to see an argument that tells me such a newspaper does not meet the criterion of being a rag.” In short, what Freddie posed as (in terms of his political posture), and what he wrote about the Chronicle and the PPP/C is his own h a r d - c o r e a n d incontrovertible answer. He should be ashamed (if he has a modicum of dignity) to ask the ‘elite’ lawyer this question. Afterall, he answers himself in an irrefutable and profuse manner. Now for a word on what is ‘rag’ regarding the Chronicle, then and now, as nothing has changed. And this is outside of the ‘protean-pouting’ Freddie
Kissoon. In “Freedom of the Press 2012- Guyana” the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) noted that “Over the years, the government (PPP/C) has employed various tactics, including advertising boycotts, to stifle criticism, but in the run-up to the November 2011 General Election, members of the ruling party grew increasingly hostile to sections of the media regarded as favouring the opposition, and cases of censorship were reported.” For example, at the beginning of October 2011, “Jagdeo ordered a fourmonth suspension of CNS Channel Six, a privately owned TV station, due to a comment made by an opposition parliamentarian during a programme broadcast in early May.” However, “After local and international media rights groups condemned the move, which would have forced the station off the air during the election period, Jagdeo announced that the ban would begin in December.” Ragamuffin! A n d a s w e k n o w, irrespective of the postponement, the Association of Caribbean Media Workers described the (PPP/C) ban as “evidence of efforts to stifle free expression.” (And) Following the elections, the (Continued on page 5)
Review process at the University of Guyana leaves much to be desired DEAR EDITOR, I am writing to express my deep frustration with the review process at the University of Guyana. As an academic institution, it is essential that the review process be conducted efficiently and effectively. H o w e v e r, m y r e c e n t experience with the review process has been anything b u t s a t i s f a c t o r y. T h e University of Guyana has outlined a review timeline of three months for submissions. Unfortunately, this timeline seems to be more of a suggestion than a commitment or policy. I submitted my application to have an exam grade reviewed over a year ago, expecting a timely review process. However, to my dismay, I am yet to receive any feedback or updates on the status of my reviews
submitted. Every time a call is made to exam division to inquire about the reviews being done and grades being released, I am faced with excuses of there not being a reviewer, they can’t find my application or something to add more frustration to the situation. This matter has been reported to the Head of Department for the Law Department, the law society and to date nothing has been done. T h e l e v e l o f incompetence and lack of care for students’ welfare is beyond high. It is clear that students’ mental health, finances and time are not valued by those in charge and responsible for ensuring that students have a smooth university experience. First you have to wait over two months for grades to be released then another year
before you can get any feedback on your reviews, if any at all. This prolonged delay not only hinders my academic progress but also reflects poorly on the university’s commitment to academic e x c e l l e n c e a n d professionalism. As a law student, I rely on timely feedback to improve my work to better my grades since high credence is placed on getting on the list of top twenty-five (25) to again automatic entrance into Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad. The current review process, or lack thereof, undermines these efforts and diminishes the reputation of the university. I urge the University of Guyana to prioritize and streamline its review process to ensure that submissions are reviewed promptly and efficiently.
Clear communication and accountability are essential in maintaining the integrity and credibility of academic institutions. Additionally, transparent updates on the status of submissions would greatly alleviate the frustration and uncertainty experienced by students like myself. In conclusion, I implore the university administration to address these concerns promptly and take necessary actions to improve the review process. Academic progress and excellence should not be hindered by bureaucratic inefficiencies. It is time for the University of Guyana to uphold its commitment to academic integrity and provide students with the support and resources they need to thrive. Sincerely, A very frustrated law student
Wednesday February 14, 2024
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Bisram and company continue to snipe from the political periphery utilizing language that belongs to another era DEAR EDITOR, In his letter published in the February 9, 2024 edition of S/N, Vishnu Bisram sought to have readers believe that Jagan was a stupid and foolish man. That Burnham was the brightest and smartest of all and that’s why Jagan was outfoxed and thrown out of office resulting in Burnham being installed by the CIA in fulfillment of Anglo-American interests. Assuming the role of a Monday morning quarter back, we are told that, had Jagan abandoned his ideological convictions, not hooked up with the Soviet Union and, had he hitched his wagon to the USA, Washington would have seen to it that he remained in power until such time he
became expendable as was the case of Burnham and Hoyte. According to Bisram, had Jagan collaborated with the CIA and sucked-up to Washington and London, he would never have been removed from office. As Bisram’s logic goes, Jagan would have remained in office following the 1964 election; he would have been elected at all other elections and as a consequence, IndoGuyanese would not have suffered. There would not have been any authoritarian rule and East Indians would not have fled to America. In sum, ‘Guyana’s faith (sic) would have been vastly different.’ In Bisram’s mind, a serene, idyllic and nearperfect society would have
been established with Jagan in power. According to Bisram’s simplistic analysis, the key to remaining in power for any Third World political leader at that time, would of necessity, required them to dump any anti-colonial, prosocialist ideological convictions they might have espoused. It would have been compulsory for them to kowtow to the whims and fancies of their sponsors in the same way as dictators like; Juan Perón of Argentina, Fulgencio Batista of Cuba, Rafael Trujillo of the Dominican Republic, François Duvalier of Haiti, Anastasio Somoza of Nicaragua, Alfredo Stroessner of Paraguay, Eric Gairy of Grenada and the
triumvirate of military personnel and later, as Marcos Pérez Jiménez of Venezuela did. According to Bisram’s analysis, had Jagan pursued policies similar to those mentioned earlier, Washington and London would have embraced him and ensured that he remain in government. As far as Bisram and his New York and Londonbased colleagues are concerned, Jagan was foolish to pursue policies that allegedly resembled those of Joao Goulart of Brazil, Jacobo Arbenz of Guatemala, Gamel Abdel Nasser of Egypt, Mohammed Mossadegh of Iran, Patrice Lumumba of Congo and Fidel Castro of Cuba.
Our teachers are the worst paid in the region and deserve much better DEAR EDITOR, In company with my wife and Assistant, we joined the protest line on Brickdam to support the Teachers and the GTU in their justifiable strike. I did the same thing in 2018 and was critical of the sloth in response by the then coalition Minister and Ministry. The representatives this morning, in their chants, said not being in the classrooms is not political but economical. Why we decided to show solidarity with the Teachers is because our teachers are the worst paid in the region and
Freddie Kissoon’s... From page 4 Commonwealth Election Observation Mission criticized the media, stating that the code of conduct for political parties and the media had not been respected, and indicated that state-owned television, radio, and print media had shown overt bias toward the government and ruling party.” PPP/C of course! I can hardly wait for the next series of switch-hitting from this double-gaited Freddie Kissoon. PS. I bet only KN will publish this letter; for sure not the Chronicle and the Guyana Times. Yours truly, Gaylord Riley
d e s e r v e m u c h b e t t e r. Teachers spend most of the hours during the week with our children and have, particularly in today’s environment, the heavy duty and awesome burden to not only give an education to our children that is fundamental but also to help mould the character of our new generation. The callous, cruel response by the Ministers and the Chief Education Officer is unpardonable and beyond belief. How can anyone trivialise the business of pedagogy at this time? …When throughout the world there is rapid advance in technology, science, sport and culture. Today I also learnt that this government plans to utilise grounds in Thomas Lands for commercial purposes. If true, an
abomination. A flagrant violation of a covenant given to the people of Georgetown, when the City was established on the heels of slavery and indentureship. I hope for the sake of my children’s children and those of every Guyanese that we are not been governed by a collection of cultural barbarians who will preside over the haemorrhage of our Nurses, Teachers and others who are already going to the Caribbean and beyond, only to escape the suffocation and indignity of being unable to cope with the rising cost of living and people in charge of decision-making not representing the important pillar of teachers in the foundation of a nation state. I expect that parents and their children will from tomorrow join the picket lines, so that the Government understands the
cause of the Teachers, irrespective of their political, religious or other persuasion that they deserve better. Our Government can begin by respecting our Constitution and collective bargaining and that the leadership of this country should not as it seems to encourage the widening of the gap between the haves and the haves not. Because when you frustrate teachers in the public sector, you then widen the already worrisome situation where heavy paying private, primary and secondary schools will proliferate, condemning to ignorance and perpetual poverty those who cannot afford these fees. So much for a Party in Office who claims credentials for being working class. Sincerely, Hamilton Green Elder
Worse yet, as far as Bisram and his comrades are concerned, the greatest and unforgivable sin Jagan ever committed was to associate his party with that of the communist parties of the Soviet Union (CPSU) and Cuba. In Bisram’s view, he should have shied away from supporting national liberation movements
branded ‘terrorist organizations’ in Asia, Africa and Latin America. And implicitly, for the sake of survival, Jagan, should have associated the PPP with the CIA and the AFLCIO in the US. According to Bisram and company’s logic, it was Jagan’s ‘communism’ that (Continued on page 6)
Concerns Regarding Freedom of Speech in Guyana DEAR EDITOR, I am writing to express my deep concern about the deteriorating state of freedom of speech in Guyana. It is evident that the current government is utilizing its supporters to create fake pages to attack individuals who hold opposing views. This disturbing trend not only stifles dissent but also undermines the very fabric of democracy that our nation stands for. The government was elected on the promise of bringing about positive change and better governance. However, it is disheartening to see that instead of fulfilling these promises, there has been a rise in cases of censorship and suppression of differing opinions. This is a clear indication of bad governance and a betrayal of the trust placed in the elected officials by the people of Guyana. In light of these developments, I strongly
believe that action must be taken to address this issue. One such measure would be to shut down pages such as “Live in Guyana” that are being used as platforms to propagate misinformation and attack individuals who dare to express their dissenting views. By allowing such pages to operate unchecked, we are complicit in the erosion of our democratic values and the silencing of voices that seek to hold those in power accountable. It is imperative that we safeguard the principles of freedom of speech and expression, which are fundamental to the functioning of a healthy democracy. I urge the relevant authorities to take decisive action to put an end to this assault on our democratic rights and ensure that every citizen of Guyana can freely express their opinions without fear of reprisal. Yours truly, Paul Singh
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Wednesday February 14, 2024
Reminiscing about the Teachers’ Strike DEAR EDITOR, The ongoing teachers strike bring back memories of the school strike on the Corentyne exactly 47 years ago. Students involved reminisce about it. It attracted political and national attention (including media) and was addressed by prominent personalities – human rights activists and opposition politicians though it was not a political strike. Unlike today’s teachers’ strike, the Corentyne strike was not called by the union, and it was not wage but labour and rights related. And unlike now, the students on the Corentyne also struck in solidarity with the staff. Actually, the students struck first followed by the teachers in solidarity in January 1977 in the first week of the new school term, and the strike lasted about six weeks. I was a key planner and organizer of the strike at a mere sixteen years of age and I would say the strike was justified. The Corentyne school strike had its roots at the Corentyne (Chandisingh) High School in Rose Hall (Port Mourant) related to an earlier strike of students (boycott of classes) in October 1976. Students formed religious societies (Hindu, Islamic and Christian clubs) and a nonreligious Student Society (government) for the first time in the history of the school that was founded around 1938. The administration (led by headmaster JC Chandisingh, his son Rohan, Deputy Headmaster Mr. Deonarine, and others) of the school proceeded to ban the four organizations. The student leaders and I were targeted for victimization for asserting our rights and dignity. I was elected as President of the Hindu Society as well as head of the Student Government. Our main mentors were teachers Chaitram Singh, Mr. ‘Jack’ (AK) Jagnandan, and Ms. Poonwassie Narine, among a
few others. I was serving as Head Prefect at the time. I was called into the principal’s office and given a lecture about the organizations and read a riot act that they were banned and must cease and desist from any further student activities. I was removed as Head Prefect for launching the organizations. Defying the administration, I called a council of student leaders from the various societies. After intensive discussion, we voted unanimously to call a student strike to demand restoration of our organizations. We penned a letter to the principal and to the Berbice Educational Officer, Mr. Solomon, brother of iconic cricketer Joe Solomon) that unless our clubs were restored, we would strike. Neither the administration nor Mr. Solomon resolved our grievance. We were threatened with expulsion if we struck. While classes were in session one morning, I led a student walk out. Initially, students were hesitant to follow me fearing expulsion as the administration had threatened. But within a few minutes, most of the students walked out of the compound and held pickets that were quickly prepared. I penned a n o t h e r l e t t e r t o M r. Solomon (the BEO) and delivered it at his home urging him to visit the school to address our grievance as we continued picketing exercise from that day and for more than a week. We staged rallies and protests in the Rose Hall and Port Mourant vicinity to attract attention. The BEO visited the morning after the strike and addressed striking students. He said he would address our grievance only if we returned to classes. We did not agree to his term, and the boycott of classes continued. Two other student leaders and I visited several schools on the Corentyne meeting students and appealing for their support
by walking out of their school in protest against the violation of our rights at CHS. Students in some schools joined the strike, walking out of their school in solidarity with our demand. As the strike widened, the BEO was under pressure from Georgetown to end it. Eventually, the BEO and CHS administration agreed to meet with the student leaders at our school. They agreed to our terms for ending the strike and it was called off with certain agreements: restoration of the clubs and no victimization of students or staff as well as the holding of a Diwali concert. A meeting was held the following day explaining why the strike was called off and the terms of agreement. Lo and behold in late
December 1976, teachers Singh, Jagnandan, and Narine received letters transferring them from the school. The violation of the agreement irked the students. On the first day of the new school term, the victimization of teachers was discussed by the Student Club and a decision was taken for a school strike. On the second day of the new school term, I led a walk out that was popularly supported by almost every student demanding that the Ministry of Education restore the three teachers to their original position. The staff also held a meeting on the issue and decided to join the strike, walking off the job. The student leaders and some staff members visited several schools on the Corentyne appealing for
their support. Parents and community leaders as well as opposition politicians supported us. Eventually, the strike widened to dozens of schools on the Corentyne with students and staff j o i n i n g i n s o l i d a r i t y. Students were threatened with expulsion and staff with dismissal. Protesting students were flogged by police. Salary of staff was withheld and threatened with termination letters. Only Indians partook in the strike; no African students or staff joined in solidarity. But politicians like Walter Rodney and Eusi Kwayana and rights activists like father Cheerah, Father Bernard Darke and Father Malcolm Rodrigues joined the protests in solidarity. The strike lasted about six weeks. Rodney addressed a large rally in Port Mourant.
Fearing the strike would widen to Demerara, the Ministry of Education decided to meet with representatives of the striking teachers and students to address demands; terms were agreed upon to end the strike. There would be no victimization of staff and students and no salary deduction. The current strike is wage related with little student and parental and community support. It is not as widely supported as the one on the Corentyne. Studies, especially of students who will sit the CXC and Common Entrance, are affected. Ministry of Education and GTU representatives should meet to reach a settlement. Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram
Bisram and company continue to snipe from... From page 5 caused his Indo-Guyanese supporters to suffer, not Burnham’s bureaucratic, corrupt and discriminatory practices nor his failed cooperative socialism. So it was not until sometime in the late 1980’s after the collapse of the Soviet Union that Bisram and company became ‘educated’ about ‘communism’ and aware of the ‘consequences of Jagan’s anti-Americanism and proSoviet solidarity, that Bisram and company ‘parted ways’ on ‘Jagan’s philosophy.’ S t r a n g e l y, d u r i n g t h e decades while the USSR was a major world power, Bisram had nothing bad to say about the Soviet Union nor about Jagan while he was alive. The records show that the 17-year-old Bisram migrated to America, where at the age of 24, he subsequently landed a teaching job. It was during that period, his brilliance shone and led him to the realization that since, ‘there was no return of Jagan to office unless he reformed his ideology’ consequently, he joined the
bandwagon to encourage Jagan to drop all the talk about communism and Marxism and to look to America for salvation. The elitist and secretarian approach adopted by Bisram and company towards Jagan’s supporters branding them an ignorant and stupid lot to have followed Jagan’s anticolonial, anti-imperialist, and progressive policies is blatantly demeaning and insulting, it portrayed the poor working people and farmers, the progressive intelligentsia and patriotic business community of that era, as people who were incapable thinking for themselves, and who did not understand what Jagan stood for and why his party should be supported. Bisram completely ignored significant contributions made by brilliant and outstanding Indo-Guyanese like Dr. C.R. Jacobs, Fenton Ramsahoye, ‘Boysie’ Ram Karran, Moneer Khan, Derek Jagan, Pandit Ramlall, Maccie Hamid, Yacoob Ally, Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud,
I s a h a c k B a s i r, P a n d i t Siridhar Misir, and many other outstanding IndoGuyanese freedom fighters. As far as Bisram is concerned these men were all foolish individuals who couldn’t think for themselves, they were all ‘brainwashed’ by Jagan and his ‘communist ideas.’ In contrast, Bishram chose to highlight a group he described as ‘stalwarts’ many of whom were not associated with the independence struggle, were never detained, imprisoned nor had their movements restricted. In fact, many, with the exception of two, were rabidly opposed to the PPP. Some advanced crude religious and racist appeals associated with Hinduism and racism; some blended medicine with religion while others resorted to downright racist emotionalism using the slogan “Apan Jhaat,” meaning vote for your own race. Bisram chose to mount these individuals on a pedestal as ‘stalwarts’ and do-gooders’ who sought to
rescue Jagan from his ‘stubbornness’ and to detach him from his ideological and philosophical convictions. Bisram and others repeatedly failed to take into account an important fact; J a g a n ’s i d e o l o g i c a l convictions never led him to betray his followers nor to fall prey to opportunistic tendencies; neither did his communist or socialist philosophy make the PPP lose a free and fair election; nor did his beliefs dissuade his supporters from standing firmly behind him and to give up on what he stood. On the contrary, they supported Jagan throughout the difficult days before and after independence, till October 1992, when after toiling in the political vineyards, he finally triumphed. In the meantime, Bisram and company continue to snipe from the political periphery utilizing language that belongs to another era, that gains no traction other than to a few trapped in the labyrinth of the past. Yours faithfully, Clement J. Rohee
Wednesday February 14, 2024
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Wednesday February 14, 2024
‘Tobago oil spill could get worse’ ( T T N E W S D AY ) Fishermen and Friends of the Sea (FFOS) say the origin and purpose of the overturned vessel in Tobago must be identified quickly. In a media release on Tuesday, FFOS said the country remains in the dark about the situation, almost a week since the vessel was found leaking an oily substance 200m off the coast of the Cove Eco-Industrial and Business Park. FFOS said, “According to the To b a g o E m e r g e n c y Management Agency (TEMA), booms have been
successfully deployed in the vicinity of the leaking Gulfstream vessel, but isn’t more oil still leaking from the vessel? “It’s critical at this stage that we determine how much more oil will be leaked to determine if the booms will contain it.” FFOS speculated that the substance being leaked into the ocean could be crude oil and warned about the devastating impact on the environment and people’s livelihoods. “The thick oil-like substance observed appears to be an unrefined crude oil,
suggesting that the Gulfstream is either a tanker or a floating storage and offloading vessel... “Based on this Gulfstream length, which is estimated to be between 300 to 560 feet, and to be conservative, if it was halffilled, we estimate that it could contain between 150,000 to 350,000 barrels of crude oil.” FFOS said the name of the vessel and its measurement will help identify its owner. “Worldwide, there are many Gulfstream-named vessels. Continued on page 32
A drone photo taken on February 8 shows the extent of the damage caused to the coast of Scarborough, Tobago. - Photo courtesy Dayreon Mitchell
- fishermen group says
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Wednesday February 14, 2024
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An uphill and losing battle The teachers are fighting a losing battle. The government will not budge from its position that the teachers’ strike is ‘illegal’ even though the government is yet to provide any evidence of how the strike is illegal. Government can afford to refuse to come to the negotiating table. The teachers cannot because each day they are on strike, they are losing income, and there will come a time when striking teachers will through exhaustion, frustration and the need for money be forced to trudge back to the classroom. It is not the lack of militancy that will force the teachers back to work. It is the way of the world. Unions have long lost their bite. Unions are no longer the force they used to be. Fewer workers are being unionized today than before. Teachers must awaken to this reality. The Guyana Teachers’ Union is not as formidable as some may believe. Based on the numbers that the government has published, the GTU only represents
about one-third of all teachers in Guyana. If the union had represented more than 75% of all teachers, they may have been in a stronger position to resist the pressures that are being applied by the government. T h e u n i o n ’s m a i n weapon is the strike. But the strike weapon is no longer as potent as before. The potency of labour strikes has been in decline for the past four decades. Even the once formidable GAWU can hardly call an effective strike in the sugar industry. The increase in automation, contract workers, the fragmentation of the workforce and the changing nature of employment have all contributed to the decline in the potency of industrial action Unions also have their own problems which have led to alienation of their membership. This includes attempt at hijacking union leadership and the lack of financial accountability. These have eroded confidence by workers in their unions.
Strikers are not paid for the time they are on strike. This is not vindictiveness; this is standard for all strikes except where the terms of resumption provide for payment. It is for this reason also that strike relief is mobilized to assist strikers for the period for which they are not paid. You cannot call a strike and then presumptuously expect to be paid. However, the union has promised that teachers will be reimbursed, by ‘corporate sponsors’ for the period they are off the job. This is easier said than done. The government has now launched a propaganda offensive against the union. It has targeted the union rather than the workers by branding the current teachers’ strike as both illegal and politically motivated. It has cast the union as being manipulative and lacking accountability. This clear attempt to delegitimize the strike stems from a broader strategy to undermine the grievances of educators and discredit their collective action. By framing
Labour Ministry failing to fulfill role... From page 3 most important issue of salary increases…” In a subsequent statement, the GTU Head emphasized that the Ministry’s decision not to engage with the Union and to present the Union with a decision that suits its purpose without negotiation is an arbitrary imposition that undermines collective bargaining and ultimately trade unions in Guyana. “It smacks at a nefarious agenda of government and does not augur well for good relations …The GTU is conscious of its role as a representative of workers employed by the Ministry of Education, stands ready to commence discussion,” the union said in the
statement. Meanwhile, Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton in an interview with Globsespan 24x7podcast on Sunday accused the leadership of the GTU as being antagonistic. He maintained that the strike is political and is being pushed by members of the political Opposition. “We can’t have engagements with unions that are not progressive and antagonistic…It’s political strike. They are just using the teachers when I looked at the crowd outside my office, I didn’t see teachers. I saw many APNU supporters in their green jersey,” Hamilton told Globespan24x7.
Dem Boys Seh...
Valentine Day is fuh lovers and divorcees! Today is Valentine Day. One man ask he work colleague if she get any dates for Valentine Day. She turn to he and seh how de supermarket selling dates wah come from de Middle East and dem taste nice. Talking about dates, a man was after a young lady who did not return his affections. But he still decided that he would invite her out for a Valentine dinner. To his surprise before he could call her, he received a valentine card from her…
disguised as a restraining order. One man did not know what to buy for his wife on Valentine Day. So he decided, he would ask her what she wanted. She said a divorce. He then told her, “I was not planning on spending dat much.” Sometimes yuh ask yuh better half what dem want fuh Valentine and dem does try to be modest and tell yuh, “I don’t want anything.” But when yuh honour dem wish and don’t buy dem a gift, dem does get vex and ask
yuh how yuh could not buy anything fuh dem. It remind dem boys of de man wah was telling he friend how he asked his wife what she wanted for Valentine Day and she told him not to get her anything. So he did not buy her a gift. He called his friend later and told him how his wife was so proud of him that she was taking him out for a walk in the jungle. But he could not understand what the shotgun and shovel was for. Talk half. Leff half.
the strike as unlawful and politically driven, the government is seeking to sow doubts among the public and erode support for the teachers’ demands. The labelling of the union as manipulative and unaccountable aims at fostering distrust in its leadership, undermining the solidarity and resolve of its members, thereby obscuring the concerns of the union and the teachers. Teachers must understand that while they may enjoy sympathy from parents and other workers, this sympathy will wane if the classes are interrupted for an extended period. Parents will begin to worry about the children writing the CXC examinations. The government is bound to pounce on this and to claim that the teachers are willfully being heartless and
disruptive. While therefore teachers may be determined to hang in for the long haul, history is not on their side. The teachers strike fizzled during the time APNU+AFC and even though there were negotiations with the government, the union was forced to settle for less than they were demanding. The teachers therefore must revise what their union is asking. Retroactive increases should be taken off the table immediately. The multi-year agreement that they are seeking should be for the period 2024-2026. The teachers should demand realistic wages. Presently, what the union is demanding cannot be seriously considered much even form the basis for negotiations. Instead of demanding percentages, they should ask themselves what would be considered a
decent wage for each category of workers. How much should a trainee teacher earn? How much should a trained teacher earn? How much should a trained graduate teacher earn? How much should a Head of Department earn? How much should a Headmistress earn? They should do this for each of the categories and then present this to the government as their new demand. Otherwise, the strike will end in humiliation and bitterness. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
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The Magnificent Seven The Magnificent Seven in Guyana has its own stars, and they don’t go under the name Yul Brynner, or Steve McQueen, or Charles Bronson. They are better known as Irfaan Ali, Bharrat Jagdeo, Aubrey Norton, Vickram Bharat, and Khemraj Ramjattan. The other stars are American icons, Darren Woods and Alistair Routledge. Though they both have a full head of hair, the comparison to the sheriff in charge, Yul Brynner is unmistakable. Either one would have done well in the role of Steve McQueen. Seven oil discoveries in Guyana, and nobody is saying anything about how much. Not the saturnine Darren Woods (Yul Brynner). Not the ever-laconic Steve McQueen (Alistair Routledge). There has to be a Calvera in there, and he can’t be American in this singular cast of heroes. The choices narrow, and they are all local. There is the stark panorama of a hardscrabble, impoverished pueblo in the American Southwest under siege. Except that it is not helpless Mexican peasants under the gun, but poor Guyanese, almost illiterate about their oil wealth. Except that it is not United Artists and Cinemascope, but real life south of
the border down Guyana Way. Seven more oil discoveries, and there is an information blackout. I never would have thought that Mistah Alistair Routledge would deign to be in the same company as the GPL. He has now incorporated mystery and sorcery, maybe even c a l u m n y, i n t o t h e E x x o n operational menu. How about telling the Guyanese people about how many barrels of oil of proven reserves, Mr. Routledge? What’s so disturbing about doing that, where’s the exposure? Of course, there are others to do those kinds of menial jobs. I hear the Guyanese leader of the Magnificent Seven pack: Exxon monetizing the discovered resources. This is why I have such high regard for this luminary. He thinks he sounds like Winston Churchill. I am sorry I hear someone who reminds me of Donald Trump. “Monetizing”, Dr. Jagdeo? If I were to use that word, the swords would be drawn in PPP Government caves: there he goes with his old ways showing off and talking over the heads of the people. Monetizing, with Exxon’s energies dedicated thereto, skipper Bhaarraat? Good grief! Exxon’s
monetizing of its Guyana’s assets is on autopilot, does not require much handholding. Especially when the skies are clear and this friendly, thanks to Barry Jagdeo sweeping away all turbulence, and any budding ominous cloud formations (critics and naysayers). But Jaggy is nothing if not savvy, which is why Big Chief Alistair holds him in such a tight headlock. Listen to the local magnificent one expound. He is all seven in one. “In fact, they (Exxon) have a greater kind of need to do that because globally… they look at your reserve and that helps to move stock prices for Exxon but they’ve decided that they want to focus more on appraisals as to how many barrels are in these discoveries, etc.” I have informed Guyanese over and over about how silkily slick this fella Bharrat Jagdeo is. He covers all the bases. But the more that he does so, the more he reveals his hand. It is empty. Get a load of this: “they’ve decided they want to focus more on appraisals…” Good Lord! Going on to two years since the last oil discovery numbers, and Exxon is still occupied with “appraisals.” Exxon is not Occidental or Conoco. Exxon is the king of appraisers.
I still take the big man’s word for it. But I seek his permission to get my own word in, with even sideways working. It is sure to reverberate, even resonate. SEC rules allow oil companies to include in their filings reserves about which there is “reasonable certainty,” with the additional leeway of disclosing “probable reserves” and “possible reserves.” Why make a fuss with announcements if that was not present? No sir, Exxon is neither frivolous nor reckless, not to that extent. Why withhold the numbers about barrels in those seven discoveries, when the SEC incorporates the use of full cost accounting and a 12-month average price regime? Now a thought comes, and nobody is going to like it. When Exxon is less than energetic in increasing its reserves, as known with “reasonable certainty” and impress the likes of Vanguard, State Street, and Fidelity, about its Guyana jewel, then something is afoot. I am thinking of Exxon keeping Guyanese dangling in the wind through silence. Because that is more beneficial to its interests, than coming out with the likely ‘significant’
numbers associated with those seven discoveries. Superstar investors could always be given a hint of things in the bag with those discoveries on the golf course. Vice President Jagdeo should be talking at length about “monetizing” the nation’s oil wealth for the prosperity of its citizens. He should be standing guard over Guyana’s interests, and collaring the tuff guys looking to oppress the people. But that’s too demanding for Jagdeo, so he takes the easy way out: he agrees with Exxon keeping the seven new discovery numbers under lock and key. I hail this special national leader. Many see and conclude about an apology for one. Exxon runs all over Guyana, cleans up the town, and the Guyanese peasants are worst off for the experience. Seven discoveries, seven magnificent men. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
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‘It will not be business as usual for education until teachers’ salaries are addressed’ - GTU President The Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) on Tuesday said that it will not be business as usual in the education sector until teachers’ salaries
demands are addressed. President of the GTU Mark Lyte on Tuesday in an address to teachers made it clear that the union will not be
pushed aside on the matter and is prepared for the long haul. “It will not be business as usual for education until the
teachers’ salary matters are addressed…the strike may come and finish, teachers may return to their work…but it will not be
business as usual,” the Union leader said. Lyte said the Union stands resolute in the fight for better salaries for teachers amidst the government’s announcement that it will be deducting money from the salaries of teachers who are on strike and protesting. Lyte called on teachers across the country to not be intimidated by the government’s tactics. Despite promises by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo that they will not be victimised, the Ministries of Education and Local Government and Regional Development on Monday issued a joint public advisory stating, there will be salary deductions for teachers who did not report for duty or who had no approval for leave for the week ending February 9th 2024. Teachers are currently in the second week of strikes. Lyte, in a Facebook live, reassured educators that the Union is prepared to fight for them, particularly ensuring that teachers are properly compensated. “I want to assure our teachers that the Union is doing everything in its powers, and you know we are fighting a state apparatus,” he noted. The Union has already declared that it is prepared to go to the courts to defend teachers against some of the measures being taken by the Ministry of Education. “Teachers will not forget what this administration has put them through and you carry out a threat by issuing a notice, you issued a notice that you will cut the teachers’ salary. Now that has legal implications because in the document the charges and penalties for teachers, a teacher’s absence or a teacher’s salary deduction has to be sanctioned by the Te a c h i n g S e r v i c e Commission…” the GTU President reminded. Further, Lyte explained: “[For] irregular attendance o r u n p u n c t u a l i t y, a determination is made for each teacher’s individual case before the sanction of
Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) President, Mark Lyte salary or loss of pay. So for this arbitrary act to be done by central ministry and the local government ministry is a breach of our constitutional right and we are going to fight. We are going to fight. We are going to fight.” Lyte told the teachers who are fearful that the Union will continue advocating for their rights until there is a satisfactory resolution to the matter. “We are out there and will continue to be out there for the duration of time that we have alerted. We intend to take further industrial action as the need arises,” he declared. He appealed to authorities, urging them to reflect on their role in resolving the dispute, saying, “Sit and think of how you can be the bigger person in the room. Sit and think how you can be the adult in the situation and bring the parties together for an amicable resolution.” Acknowledging the challenges faced by teachers, Lyte reiterated the Union’s support for its members, affirming, “The union will continue to support all our members, irrespective of the stand you have taken. We understand your situation and we know the struggle.” He empathized with those compelled to return to work due to governmental pressure, assuring them of the union’s understanding and solidarity. Notably, he also disclosed that the Union wrote to the Ministry of Education last week and to date has not received a response. The ongoing protest, initiated by the GTU, commenced on February 5, 2024, gaining momentum with each passing day.
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Trinidad and Tobago cleans up beaches following 12-kilometer oil spill (Reuters) - First responders and volunteers from Trinidad and Tobago on Tuesday sought to contain an oil spill detected last week in the Caribbean country’s waters and clean areas of Tobago island’s coast already affected by the incident. Trinidad and Tobago’s coast guard first spotted the spill on Feb. 7, about 6 kilometers off the coast of Studley Park, the chief secretary of Tobago’s national assembly, Farley Augustine, said in a press conference on Sunday. Barriers have been installed to contain the spill, which earlier this week had already
spread in a 12-kilometer (7.5 mile) line, and protect the Scarborough port in Tobago, used by cruise ships, especially during high season as current Carnival. First responders have been focused on containing the spill as tides change, protecting surrounding areas, cleaning beaches, deploying divers, isolating toxic material and assessing its impact to wildlife, according to officials and media reports. “This is a national emergency here in Trinidad and Tobago,” Prime Minister Keith Rowley said on Sunday, after saying that a vessel had capsized and made contact with a
reef on the coastline, causing the spill. Officials also said they have identified the vessel as the “the Gulfstream” - citing divers that spotted the name on the side of the craft that reportedly caused the spill, without elaborating further. The government said it will continue researching the vessel’s owner and operator, and whether the leak came from its bunker deposit. Reuters found at least three ships with similar names, and all their transponders were offline, LSEG vessel monitoring data showed. “It could easily have been worse,”
Rowley said to explain that if the collision had happened further east, it would have reached the Scarborough port. If the spill had happened further west, much of the oil could easily have gone to a key marine park. An initial evaluation found only a limited impact on animals in the area, Augustine said. Energy Minister Stuart Young said some energy companies operating in the country, including British BP (BP.L) have provided equipment such as remotely operated vehicles to help with the investigation and cleanup.
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IDB Group to hold high-level meeting in Guyana The Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group) will hold its XII Annual Consultation with the Governors of the countries comprising its Caribbean Country Department on February 23 - 24 in Georgetown, Guyana. The consultation will involve the Governors and other representatives from the six Caribbean member states: The Bahamas, Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and Suriname, the IDB said in a press release. The meeting will provide a chance to discuss the challenges and opportunities
for the Caribbean economies. Governors will also discuss the IDB Group’s new Institutional Strategy, which includes pathways to strengthen IDB Invest and IDB Lab, as well as the Group’s new “One Caribbean” regional programme. IDB President Ilan Goldfajn will lead the bank’s management team that will include the Executive Vice President, Vice Presidents for Countries, Sectors & Knowledge, and Finance, as well as the Chief Executive Officers of IDB Invest and IDB Lab. The venue for the meeting is listed as
Grand Ballroom, Guyana Mariott Hotel Georgetown. The IDB Group is the leading source of development financing for Latin America and the Caribbean. We contribute to improving lives by providing financial solutions and development expertise to public- and private-sector clients. The Group comprises the IDB, which has worked with governments for more than 60 years; IDB Invest, which serves the private sector; and IDB Lab, which tests innovative ways to enable more inclusive growth. Take our virtual tour.
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“We’re not afraid of sanctions” — teachers defy threats by Govt. to continue protest for a living wage
Teachers braved the heat to join the call for collective bargaining for higher salaries By Christal Yong Teachers braved the midmorning sun to protest in front of the Ministry of Finance on Main Street, where they continued their calls for better salaries and working conditions. The teachers told Kaieteur News that they are unafraid of sanctions to be imposed by the Ministry of Education in the form of deductions from their salaries for the days they participated in the teachers’ strike and protest, which is in its second week. “We are not children, we are not slaves, don’t treat us as if we are,” said Carolyn Garraway, a teacher who was resolute in her stance that the Guyana Teachers’ Union’s demands must be met by the government. She said, “My call now, then and forever, is to engage the Teachers’ Union in collective bargaining.” On Tuesday, Kaieteur News reported that despite g u a r a n t e e s f r o m Vi c e President Bharrat Jagdeo that protesting teachers will not be victimized, the Ministries of Education and Local Government and Regional Development advised that there will be salary deduction for teachers who did not report for duty or did not have approval for leave for the week ending February 9, 2024. The joint advisory stated that the ministries are in possession of a list of names from each of the 11 Education Districts who did not report for duty last week. “We are not victimising anyone because you go on the strike but I want them to understand that this is a political strike,” Jagdeo told reporters last Thursday at his weekly press conference. Meanwhile, Garraway explained that the government needs to demonstrate maturity and sit at the table with teachers to
d i s c u s s t h e U n i o n ’s proposal. “We put forward a proposal, sit with us and have a discussion as it relates to the proposal with us, and not making decisions that you think will best suit us. The Government cannot know what will best suit us. Our union would have engaged with us and so they know and understand our concerns, so the best person for them (Government) to sit with, is our union. That is all we are asking for, collective bargaining.” Garraway told Kaieteur News that teachers are not blinded to the fact that they will not get all that has been asked for but are hopeful that the government will meet the Union half-way. “We know that we cannot get all that we want, but we must get what is necessary and that is our economic needs and that is why we will continue to be here, regardless of the government laws… Because we will still die with this little salary, whether they cut it or not, we will still die, because we c a n ’ t e a t ro a d s a n d b u i l d i n g s , a n d roundabouts,” she said as her colleagues nearby expressed their agreement. Garraway posited that if the government fails to act, then the economy will be affected. “If the government does not budge let them watch the nation fall to pieces on an economic level, because this time is National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) and the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations. Our children and our economy and all of this, will be a waste of time.” Ryan Heywood said the move by the government to deduct money from striking teachers’ salaries Continued on page 31
Teachers in front of the Ministry of Finance on Tuesday protesting
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“We’re not afraid of sanctions”...
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Two more tourism tours launched in Rupununi, Region Nine The Tourism Sector continues to expand with the launching of two new experiential tours in the Rupununi, Region Nine. The Guyana Tourism Authority led by Kamrul Baksh, Rupununi Adventures, Tara’s Choices & Tours, and Bush Cow Eco Trails on Monday launched the new products at the Cashew Grove Park at Lethem, Region Nine. Rupununi Adventures and Tara’s Choices & Tours have collaborated for the ‘Explore Lethem’ tour which promises an immersive journey. The tour also features guided tours to Matapee Falls, paddle boarding, and kayaking experiences at Manari Creek and the town of Lethem. Meanwhile, the ‘Indigenous
Exploration: Kanuku & Rupununi Trekking and River Adventure’ tour launched by Bush Cow Eco Trails, will take guests on an adventure deep into the heart of Guyana’s rich indigenous heritage with an unforgettable blend of nature and culture amidst the aweinspiring Kanuku Mountains. While delivering the feature remarks at the launching ceremony, Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority Kamrul Baksh commended the operators for their efforts in creating products that appeal to tourists. He noted that one such example of an outstanding tour operators was Guy Fredericks of Bush Cow Eco Trails. “He launched earlier, and as he mentioned, the guests wanted Continued on page 30
GTA Director of Kamrul Baksh, Product Development Manager Candace Phillips, Product Development Officer Clyde Edwards, and Regional Chairman Brian Allicock pose with the tour operators
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High Court rules ex-husbands can now claim for maintenance after divorce Former husbands are now in a position to claim for maintenance or spousal support following divorce proceedings. In a landmark ruling on Monday by Chief Justice (AG) Roxane George-Wiltshire, it was determined that either party can apply for maintenance. The ruling stemmed from a constitutional motion filed to challenge the alimony laws that have existed in Guyana since the early 1900s. In the matter, a husband through his attorney, Tamara Evelyn-Khan, sought to apply for his ex-wife to pay him maintenance following their divorce but was told that he could not apply because the law does not allow for men to benefit from spousal support. As a result, the man moved to the High Court to challenge the law, specifically Section 14 of the Matrimonial Causes Act on the grounds that it violated his constitutional rights to equal protection and benefits from the law and is discriminatory on the basis of sex and gender.
Attorney-at-law, Tamara Evelyn-Khan In her arguments, Evelyn-Khan noted while that section of the Matrimonial Causes Act secures what can be described as a tremendous benefit to a wife it disallows the same benefit to accrue to husbands. “He is simply disallowed as is the applicant in this matter from seeking alimony/maintenance,” the attorney said in her arguments to the court. She noted therefore that the
necessary questions of discrimination and equality became relevant. Evelyn-Khan noted that, “Article 149 D guarantees that laws and their provisions shall not be discriminatory, in themselves or their effect. Discriminatory means treating persons differently wholly based on gender, sex, et al. The article notes exceptions and speaks to different treatment where it is reasonably justifiable. There is a further scope of different treatment where it is reasonably justifiable. There is a further scope of guarantee /s regarding fundamental right in Article 149 D which secures to the applicant equality before the law or equal protection and benefit of the law.” She submitted too that Section 14 of the Matrimonial Causes Act infringes on these guarantees with no justifiable reason while noting that the applicant being a man cannot be a reason to deprive him of the benefit of the application for alimony/maintenance. “Such a restriction certainly also
Chief Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire offends against the full enjoyment of the fundamental right; protection from discrimination e quality before the law and equal protection and benefit of the law,” the attorney added. In her ruling on Monday, Justice George-Wiltshire struck down provisions of the Matrimonial Causes Act which provided that only men were liable to pay maintenance. In her decision, the judge
declared that Section 14 of the Matrimonial Causes Act, Chapter 45 :02 is discriminatory on the basis of sex and gender and is therefore unconstitutional as being in violation of Article 149 and Article 149 D of the Constitution of Guyana, to the extent that on a decree for dissolution or nullity of marriage, it provides for men only to pay a gross or annual sum of money to or maintain their former wives, and not for women to pay a gross or annual sum of money to or maintain their former husbands. Therefore, until the National Assembly makes adequate provision, Section 14 of the Matrimonial Causes Act, Chapter 45:02 is hereby modified to permit applications by either a husband or a wife for payment of a gross or annual sum of maintenance so that the said Section 14 is in compliance with Articles 149 and 149D of the Constitution of Guyana. As a consequence, it was declared that the applicant is entitled to apply for maintenance from his former spouse.
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Contractor’s bids identically match engineer’s figure Former Regional Executive Officer (REO) of Region Six, Kim WilliamsStephen was unable to explain to the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) how the contract sum and Bill of Quantities for two road projects in 2019 were identical to the engineer’s estimates and awarded to one contractor. On Monday during the examination of records related to procurement matters at Region Six’s Regional Democratic Council (RDC) as highlighted in the 2019 report of the Auditor General, the startling resemblance was observed. Williams-Stephen was appointed REO in 2016 under the David Granger-led administration but was replaced by the Irfaan Aliled administration in 2020. In the 2019 Audit Report, it stated that “Audit examination revealed two
Engineer’s Tender Amount Estimate Price Paid $’000 $’000 $’000 Rehabilitation of Girls Club Street Canefield 9,480 9,480 9,318 Rehabilitation of Gibraltar School Street 9,997 9,997 9,951
Description
Former Regional Executive Officer (REO) of Region Six, Kim Williams-Stephen
The two projects which matched the engineer’s figures that was highlighted in the Auditor General’s 2019 report. instances; as noted below (in the table), where the contract sums were the same as the Engineer’s Estimate. In addition, each item on the c o n t r a c t o r ’s B i l l o f Quantities was identical to that of the Engineer’s Bill of Quantities. The contracts were awarded by the Regional Tender Board at one sitting. It should be noted that the two contracts were awarded to one contractor.” The projects under examination have to do with the rehabilitation of Girls Club Street Canefield and
rehabilitation of Gibraltar School Street in Region Six. Highlighting the matter on Monday during the hearing of the PAC, was Member of Parliament (MP) Dharamkumar Seeraj, who asked, “How was it possible for not only the end sum, but every single item in the bill of quantity had the same value as that of the engineer’s estimate and how is it that both contracts could have been awarded to the same person at the same meeting, if there was other submission or other contractor who submitted
bids for these two particular jobs?” In her response to the question, the Former REO said “The Audit Office… I can ask for assistance here because the Audit Office would have carried out an investigation and they would have the results for that.” The Former REO was then questioned by Chairman of PAC and Member of Parliament, Jermaine Figueira, “But REO from my concern, don’t you find that very revelation kinda interesting, so to speak?”
In response, Williams – Stephen said, “yes, it is interesting,” while pointing to the investigation that was conducted by the Auditor General’s Office. Figueira then enquired whether the former REO was a member of the tender board when the contracts were awarded to which she replied in the affirmative. H o w e v e r , notwithstanding her presence on the tender board, the former REO said she did not observe the similarity in prices. The PAC learnt through
the current REO Navindra Persaud that the engineer who worked on the projects and prepared the Bill of Quantities at that time is no longer working with the government. Meanwhile, during the examination of the AG report on the matter, Minister of Public Works and PAC member Juan Edghill said the concerns raised are serious and noted that “whatever was happening there in 2019, we must never see it happening anywhere else in any region, any other time in Guyana.”
Newly commissioned O&G training facility opens doors With boundless avenues for rapid growth and transformation emerging, a concerted effort is underway to equip Guyanese for opportunities within the booming oil and gas sector. While this accelerated growth poses many challenges, proactive measures are being employed to tackle these issues. Crafting a skilled workforce is a top priority, as part of this strategy. The government has embarked on a nationwide campaign to provide world-class education and upskilling opportunities to Guyanese, ensuring that local content remains the pinnacle of Guyana’s oil and gas development. As part of this agenda of bolstering the oil and gas training arena, on Friday last, a US$13 million oil and gas Facility S i m u l a t o r ( F a c To r ) w a s commissioned at Port Mourant. This project is the first phase of the wider Guyana Technical Training College Inc. (GTTCI), which is an alliance between the Government of Guyana and the Stabroek Block coventurers, ExxonMobil Guyana (EMGL), Hess Corporation and China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC). The facility is the first of its kind in the region and is designed to give practical training for multiple programmes, enabling trainees to practice calibration, troubleshooting and maintenance activities on facilities that mirror the conditions aboard a Floating, Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel. The fully functional simulated plant can accommodate a batch of
Officials during last week’s launch 24 students. The Department of Public Information (DPI) spoke with several students who are part of the first batch of trainees. For Shannon Tungcap, who is a mechanical technician trainee on the project, being exposed to hands-on training, and dealing with complex equipment has been a unique learning experience. He envisions a future where Guyanese can dominate the industry. “I see myself moving up the chain of command within the oil and gas sector, to a position where I can advise and train other persons in similar ways,” he said. Arantra English, a trainee electrical technician, highlighted the value of the facility, saying that it will bring a significant boost to local content.
“This is important because it means we have our facility in Guyana, instead of having to depend on other places, and we can expand within our country. As a female within this industry, it is important for me to be a role model for younger girls who would like to join the industry, and to help them develop their skills within the industry,” she told DPI. Another student, Priya Singh, said “It is of extreme significance to the Guyanese people because it provides them with the opportunity to be trained in various trades. If they have a passion for the engineering field especially, I would say this is the right path to go on.” Joshua Gouveia, who is a production technician trainee, commended the investment in
bringing world-class, technologically advanced instruction to Guyana’s shores. “As a young Guyanese, this is an amazing feeling, especially to be the first batch here. It is something that words cannot express enough. It should be appreciated by Guyanese because it is great to have young people being trained within the sector,” he emphasised. Meanwhile, the Chairman of Region Six, David Armogan, said that the opening of such a facility is an important development for the region. “I’m glad that so much emphasis is being placed in this region. A lot of things are being resuscitated, a lot of new investments are coming into this region, and I’m glad that the government has chosen this
region, and particularly Port Mourant, for this facility,” he commended. He encouraged the young people in Berbice to grasp these opportunities, recognising that prior, there were not that many opportunities for training in such nuanced industries. “We have to prepare our people for the next ten, 15 years. Now, this kind of skills development is here, we have the New Amsterdam Technical Institute, we have the Board of Industrial training doing quite a lot of work in the region, and now this institution, plus the hospitality institute is coming here, so we have many opportunities for training, for young people to get ahead in this country,” (DPI)
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361 residents of Kamana, Sand Hill benefiting from $84M water supply systems
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Drivers, Porters and Salesman needed, experience will be an asset, Attractive salary offered. Call: 673-7373.
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1 Honda CRV, includes TV, music system, alarm, reverse camera, sproiler, crashbar, low mileage PTT Series (first owner). Contact: 649-0956.
Vacancy at Vegetarian Garden for Factory Workers (part time). Call: 227-7714/ 223-3448. Email: info@vegeworld.net
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One female able-bodied Staff needed to work in a store. Call: 225-2313, 226-1497, 6588559. One live-in Caretaker for elderly person for Georgetown. Call: 627-3650/ 223-0654. Drivers needed to work in Georgetown. Interested persons can Call: 701-4000 Mon-Fri, between 8am-4pm. Reputable transportation service is seeking experienced Chauffeur with mini bus and hire car licence. Call: 645-0025. Wanted! Male & Female workers preferably from WBD, for packaging pasta and chowmein. $4100 per day. Call: 611-7839. Cook needed to work in Campbellville. Must know to cook various meals, salary $5000 per day. Call: 6215140. One Painter for East Bank area. Call: 615-9132. One Pedicurists for home service at East Bank area. Call: 615-9132. Looking to Hire a Tutor, teaching experience for Grade 3 level Primary. MonFri 3:30-5:30 at Republic Park, EBD. Call: 626-4884. FOR SALE House lots for sale in gated community, no down payment. $50,000 monthly. Call: 622-1957. House lots & commercial plot for sale available at Blankenburg W.C.D. Call: 652-0251/ 650-0402.
Receptionist, Laundry Attendant Deskstaff, Room & Security Guard, Handyman and Supervisor needed at South Road. Call: 225-0198. Pump Attendant/Cashier,s hifts (6am-2pm&2pm-10pm). Shell Station Providence E.B.D, Call: 265-7306. Email: Shellramsburg@gmai.com Captain, Seaman & Cook needed. Apply with valid certificates @ Liberty Ranges, 29 Sussex Street, Georgetown. Room Attendant & Desk Staff needed at 233, South Road Lacytown. Part time rotating shift. Call: 2250198. Famous Flavors is hiring Kitchen Assistant. Call: 6014918. One Clerk for TSI Eccles office. English & Mathematics, grade 1 or 2. Email application: techserigy@yahoo.com or Call 615-9132. Male Cleaner for Eccles. Call: 645-8443/ 615-9132. One industrial Electrician needed. Call: 645-8443/ 6159132.
Business/ residential PFSGYD$58M, Visa Application, advertisements, graphics design, passport application forms & i130 application. Call: 626-7040. Elevate your brand with our professional Graphic design services. Call: 619-0007, 6295526. For Land Clearance (Grubbing) Sand fill, Housing Plan and Estimate's. Call K. Lakeram Building. Call: 692-8464 or whatsapp 6220267 For low cost repairs for AC units, refridgerators, freezers, gas stoves, washing machine, dryers, etc. Call: 6294946, 225-4822.
One Handy man & one night Watchman needed. Call: 6122125. 1 Kitchen Assistant needed to work in a snackette, 7 am3 pm. Call: 501-4769.
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Approximately 361 residents from Kamana and Sand Hill in Region Eight, now have improved access to potable water, following the commissioning of two water supply systems totalling $84 million in the communities. The $48 million system in Kamana will serve about 232 residents, while the $36 million system in Sand Hill will provide first-time access to 129 people. Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal officially commissioned the facilities on Sunday. The scope of the project in Kamana included a 120-metre-deep potable water well, 3,000 metres of 50 millimetres (23 ) PVC pipes, and 1,000 metres of 19-millimetre (3/43 ) PVC pipes with 50 services connections. A concrete slab was also built, and storage tanks were installed along with a photovoltaic pumping system, and a perimeter fence. Meanwhile, the project at Sand Hill comprises a concrete intake pumping chamber at a stream source, 800 metres of 50-millimetre (23 ) PVC pipes, and 400 metres of 19-millimetre (3/43 ) PVC pipes with 20 service connections. A concrete slab and storage tanks were also
installed powered by a solar pumping system. Minister Croal emphasised that these projects are integral to the government’s mission to achieve 100 percent potable water coverage in the hinterland by 2025. Furthermore, Minister Croal highlighted the significant benefits that the region will receive from various developmental projects outlined in this year’s $1.146 trillion national budget. In line with this commitment, an allocation of $1.5 billion has been earmarked to improve access to potable water in the hinterland regions. Among these initiatives, the completion of two new wells in Mahdia and Campbelltown in Region Eight is anticipated. R. Kissoon Contracting Services constructed the systems in both communities. Persons residing in Kamana will receive training on system maintenance to ensure the sustainability of the water supply system. Residents also took the opportunity to highlight issues within their respective communities. (DPI)
Climate change can aggravate existing threats to int’l peace, security - Foreign Affairs Minister Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd on Tuesday pointed to the adverse effects of climate change on food security and peacekeeping operations. Speaking at the United Nations Security Council’s (UNSC) open debate on the impact of climate change and food insecurity on the maintenance of international peace and security, the minister highlighted the interconnectivity between these three elements, stressing the need for a systematic and strategic approach by the council. “We are concerned that the increasing occurrences of extreme climate defence are severely impacting access to vital resources, such as water and agricultural lands. There is increasing evidence of the interrelationship between climate change, food
insecurity and conflict, with each directly and indirectly impacting the other,” he said. He continued, “Food and water insecurity and hunger are among the primary pathways through which the effects of climate change on peace and stability and the enjoyment of human rights manifest.” To further strengthen this point, Minister Todd pointed out that, of the 10 countries more vulnerable to climate change-related risks, 9 are food insecure. For context, climate change phenomena such as rising temperatures and sea levels, severe droughts, and floods lead to food insecurity. The minister explained that this can in turn disrupt livelihoods and migration patterns. According to the foreign affairs minister, these are the main drivers of conflict and violence.
Based on this assessment, he identified climate change as a ‘risk multiplier’. “Low-income, fragile, vulnerable, and conflict-affected countries and communities are most at risk of being overwhelmed by climate impacts,” the Foreign Affairs Minister added. Women, youth, children, and the Indigenous community were also identified as particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Minister Todd affirmed the UNSC’s resolute stance in taking a holistic view of these challenges, and adopting comprehensive risk assessments, utilising data and analytics to build resilience. “We stand ready to consolidate our efforts to advance systematic response, inclusive and evidence-based approach,” the minister noted. (DPI)
Two more tourism tours launched in... From page 24 something more. They wanted not only a hiking experience exclusively but they wanted that jungle plus river. So, he recognized and then retrofitted the tour to cater for the market, and that’s exemplary because it’s responding to the needs of the market which is demandbased, and that approach, you can’t lose,” Baksh noted. He also commended the proprietors of Rupununi Adventures, Tara’s Choices & Tours for their collaboration, noting that it is timely, especially in the context of the Rupununi Rodeo which is coming up. “I like that experience because it draws on the main elements of the Lethem district and just on the periphery and packaging that in a day experience. A lot of people are interested in doing that first flight in from Ogle, spending just a few hours and then flying back out,” he said. Baksh said too that he “think for the
very first time in this industry’s history, we are seeing such scale of tours being developed, persons going out and doing assessments and putting itineraries together in such a short time,” he stated while highlighting that over the last four years, there were 50 new tours developed in Guyana. He noted that a lot is being done through partnerships and the momentum must be kept. “We just want to continue to work on raising the standards within this industry and encourage each of you to enroll in the HSSE programme. So, the Guyana Tourism Authority is working closely with the Centre for Local Business Development in having you guys complete your HSSE training and manual which will go a long way into ensuring that the safety standards for your respective tours are on par,” he stated. (DPI)
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“We’re not afraid of sanctions” World Leaders agree UNSC From page 19 told Kaieteur News that, government’s responsibility must redouble efforts to address... demonstrate its uncaring “The ministry gatta do what to contribute to us in being From centrespread the debate, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Simon Stiell, thanked Guyana’s Head of State for bringing this important topic to the attention of the Council. The official recalled that only a few years ago, the world believed hunger could be eradicated. Decades later, Stiell noted that the world is far from realizing this dream. He said it is well established that climate change affects the environment and food security goals but greater strategic approaches are needed to respond. Towards this end, Stiell said, “This Council should request real time information on the impacts of climate change and the UNCCC (United Change Climate Change Conference otherwise known as COP) can assist with this.” The official recalled that at the last such meeting in Dubai, it was agreed that the time is now to deliver on climate adaptation plans that lend to achieving food security. “But countries need financing for adaptation, particularly those vulnerable to climate change…Developing countries excluding need US$2.4 trillion every year to build new technologies and adapt to impacts…It seems big a number but pales when compared to the financing for conflict,” said Stiell. The Executive Secretary also stressed the need for national climate targets and national action plans to be practical in their measures to address rising temperature. In this way, he believes climate action can help build peace and indeed help meet food security goals. During her contribution, Deputy Director-General at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United N a t i o n s ( FA O ) B e t h Bechdol noted that the evidence is clear regarding the impact of climate change on food security. “...It is having an alarming effect on people, the planet and what I would like to address–agro food systems which is how we plant, harvest, and store our food…Climate change will intensify and create further disruptions for this…and it is the farmer, the fisherman and other ordinary stakeholders who will face the brunt of it,” said
Bechdol. The Deputy DirectorGeneral said it is critical that farmers and stakeholders who serve as the pillars of the agriculture industry, are not neglected, that they are equipped with the systems and financing needed to adapt. “We have to equip farmers in communities to prepare for and respond to crises and we have to help them build resilience…the FAO is committed to this,” she said. Noting that she is not merely present to belabour the challenges that are well known, the official offered a few recommendations for the way forward. Her solutions included global leaders prioritizing investments for climate resilient approaches, that requests be made to UN entities to regularly analyze and report on climate change risks, that there be improvements in the coordination of strategies on food security at all levels, and establishing regional climate peace and security hubs. Also sharing an impassioned presentation on the need for action was Director of Global Initiatives and Head of Climate, Peace and Sustainable Development at the International Peace Institute, Jimena Levia Roesch. The official said climate change is not like an enemy one can sanction at the level of the UNSC but certainly, that critical body can and should be instrumental in pushing for greater cooperation on this matter. “Many nations are knocking on the council’s door for help, but how will the council respond?” the official asked. Roesch said global temperature is on the rise beyond 1.5 Degrees Celsius and the apocalyptic consequences that would follow should send chills down the spine of all stakeholders present. She urged the council to play a key role in finding solutions by first examining how climate change and conflict magnifies risks and vulnerabilities. She also recommended that a body be established to this effect. “This would signal to the world that the council is interested in protecting the smallest and most vulnerable amongst us…after all, that is our role,” said Roesch. President of the Dominican Republic, Luis
Abinader Corona also contributed to the debate, noting issues such as food insecurity is not one that can be tackled in isolation. In acknowledgement of this reality, he highlighted that his government has kindled key discussions with Guyana on how both parties can pool their resources for the greater good. While he noted that climate change vulnerabilities and shortages of food increase the risk of violence, what distresses him the most is that hunger continues to be used as a weapon of war and to bring a people to its knees. “This is an unjustifiable and an atrocious practice,” said the Head of State. The Dominican Republic Leader also highlighted the perilous state of Haiti which has worsened whilst in the firm clutches of violent gangs blocking humanitarian aid. He urged his counterparts at the council to take this matter seriously and act on preventing further dissension. Abinader, like the other speakers, also called for the Council to redouble its efforts to address the impacts of conflict and climate change. ABOUT UNSC The Security Council is one of the six main organs of the United Nations established under the UN C h a r t e r. I t s p r i m a r y responsibility is maintaining international peace and security. The Council has five permanent members: China, France, Russia, United Kingdom, and United States and 10 other elected members: Algeria, Ecuador, Guyana, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, South Korea, and Switzerland. The Security Council takes the lead in determining the existence of a threat to the peace or act of aggression. It calls upon the parties to a dispute to settle it by peaceful means and recommends methods of adjustment or terms of settlement. In some cases, the Security Council can resort to imposing sanctions or even authorize the use of force to maintain or restore international peace and security. The Security Council has a Presidency, which rotates, and changes, every month. Guyana will preside over the council for this month.
nature. He said, “Personally when persons threatening me, I retaliate, and if you noticed this is the reaction of teachers. When you threatening people, you are telling people that they have no other choice, no other options, and we as human being, we always like options and the government isn’t giving any options and all we are asking for right now, is that we have options and that we go to the table with the GTU, and we put forward what we have, and they put forward what they have and we meet half-way or something.” Heywood noted that the government’s indication that it will deduct money from teachers’ salaries seeks to suggest that teachers have no other option but to return to the classroom and be content with whatever little they are receiving. “They are telling us that we have no other option but threats and threats, taking away our salary, deduction, or whatever it is, those are share threats and we don’t react nicely towards threats,” the teacher said. He continued: “At the end of the day, they [the Government] may think that cutting our salary may hurt us. Yes, because we need our salary, we need every bit of it. That’s one of the reasons you see soon as pay day is announced, all the teachers line up at the bank, mostly public servants, because they just waiting for this pay day, and that is the evidence of living from pay check to pay check, because, soon as pay day, we line up. If they [the Government] don’t budge, the children at the schools, or who are not in school at this time and not being taught, they are the ones and their parents, who will feel it the most. So it has a ripple effect on the cutting of salary, and it has so much of a ripple effect, hurting us, but mostly, it will hurt the children and the parents, when they see them grades, come CXC and common entrance (NGSA).” Another educator Roy Bishop who stood in solidarity with his colleagues on Main Street
they gatta do, we will do what we have to do. We will remain here until they meet with the union.” Bishop noted that despite the government’s threats, teachers will not back down. “We are going to stand strong and we will stand in solidarity with our union and each member. If they cut our salary, we will live, we have been living on that small salary and we will live, so if they take it away, so go ahead.” Bishop added, “We will remain here until they budge, Common Entrance (NGSA) is coming, CXC is coming, School Based Assessment (SBA) gatta be submitted so we will remain here. Government… the State will feel the pain.” Claude Wilkinson, like his colleagues, said the government can opt to deduct teachers’ salaries but the issue remains that teachers deserve to be properly paid. “We don’t care if they deduct the money, because at the end of the day, bread and butter is not a political issue or what they say, and they know for a fact that the money we are being paid, it cannot sustain us for a whole month,” Wilkinson told Kaieteur News. He continued: “As teachers, I will tell you straight up, what we do is help out children. We help them buy lunch, we help them with transportation and there is no money allocated at the school for us to do that, so, our income helps out the children.” Another teacher Stephon Josiah described the threat to deduct salaries from striking and protesting teachers as “shameful”. He told Kaieteur News that the Ministry of Education’s approach is quite disappointing. “They should be focusing on resolution and not necessarily a fight. What we are seeing from actions like that is that they are signaling to the teachers, we [Government] are going to fight you. Teachers are saying that they are not comfortable and it is the
comfortable, and when they are taking actions like that, they are really contributing to a bigger fight.” Josiah posited that the posture adopted by the government suggests that “we don’t have a functional society”. “It is saying to us that we don’t have a functional society, it saying to us that actions in the future will not be recognized. If people have grievances, there are ways to resolve that and when you have a nation resorting to ignoring its people like that, you are not going to have peace in your society.” The teacher explained that, “I am fairly qualified, I’ve done the trained teachers’ certificate, I’ve done the Certificate of Education from the University of Guyana (UG), I have done a Masters, and I still do not take home $200,000, when the month comes.” The frustrated man told Kaieteur News: “Before the month is over, I am looking for the other pay cheque; I am looking to answer questions from my family, where we are getting our next meal from? I am saying that because, the cost of living is so high that my earnings are not adding up.” Another teacher who asked to be identified only Sir Thomas said he stands firmly with the Union. “We are with the Union, we stand by the Union, and if our sacrifice is that sometime or some point of time we will lose, we are here to gain.” He added: “If we are here and we are standing by our word. We are intelligent teachers and if we standing by our word; we must not be trampled on, we are standing here all the time, and if they [Government] are not budging, they better budge to positiveness.” Thomas said too that teachers go the extra mile to provide for their families. “That can be in many forms, we work nights, we work extra in the afternoon, and we work weekends, just for something to supplement our income,” he said.
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‘We lost hope. We lost everything’: Gaza City residents struggle to cope When Mahmoud Murtaja and his family returned to their home in Gaza City, they never imagined the desolation that awaited. Gaza City, Gaza Strip – Mahmoud Murtaja’s return to his home in eastern Gaza City was as heartbreaking as his forced departure had been when the Israeli army began its ground offensive into the city about three months ago. A l t h o u g h t h e bombardments have not stopped, Murtaja thought returning to their home might bring him and his family some comfort, finally breaking the cycle of endless temporary evacuations. But when he arrived where his home had been, his hopes were swiftly dashed. His three-storey house was nowhere to be seen. In its place were only piles of dirt and blackened rubble. “We had heard that our area was subjected to heavy fire from Israeli artillery and air attacks during the ground assault,” Murtaja told Al Jazeera. “We certainly expected to see some destruction,” he said. “But we didn’t imagine that the house would be completely destroyed and
that we would have to search through the dirt for our belongings to identify where it had been. We couldn’t even find any trace of walls or a roof.” The family of five now live in a cloth tent erected on the rubble of what was their home. According to Murtaja, there is now nothing that impedes his view from the tent for kilometres around. Everything has been flattened. The tent provides some shelter from the rain, but no protection from the fighting, no privacy, or enough cover to keep them warm at night. Murtaja’s nine-year-old daughter Salma described the terror of fleeing approaching Israeli tanks. She had dreamt of going home and finding some peace from the crowded shelter in Gaza’s south. Ultimately, she found herself sleeping on the ground in a small, 6 square-metre (65 square-foot) tent, where she thinks her room may once have stood.
“I can’t even sleep. It’s like sleeping on the street but with pain and tears all day long,” she said, “All I want is my room, my dolls, and my clothes back.” For the family, the journey back to their house was “long and traumatic”, Salma’s mother, Rahaf, said. Now, with the loss of their home, Rahaf feels none of them will ever know security again. “For us, losing the family home felt like losing our soul while still alive. And that’s the most painful feeling a human can experience,” she said. Murtaja, who was a driving instructor before the war, told Al Jazeera that when they first left home he thought they would only be gone a few days. He never thought they would return to rubble. Now, the Murtaja family must split up every morning – some search for wood to burn while others comb the area for water. Most days, their efforts yield nothing and they return to the tent empty-handed,
A view of the demolition as Palestinians return to their neighbourhood in Shujaiyya after Israeli forces withdrew - in Gaza City on February 6, 2024 [Dawoud Abo Alkas/Anadolu Agency] meaning no water or food for the day. For families like the Murtajas, living on the remains of their flattened properties in the north of Gaza, the nights are not only cold but also terrifying. Nearby explosions shake the ground they lie on, while stray dogs bark and yelp outside, adding to the family’s terror. As the war enters its fifth month, thousands of Palestinian families across the Gaza Strip have lost their homes and become displaced, refugees in their own lands. In the north, entire families have been scattered by the war, shattering the community demographically and geographically.
Murtaja feels his sense of belonging to the world has been severed. They need aid. More than that, he says, they need their basic humanity to be acknowledged. “We need to feel like equal people who can enjoy the basics of their human rights, like safety, dignity, freedom, and justice,” he said. Murtaja would love to be able to rebuild his house, and he has some hope that the international community may one day respond to the plight of the people of Gaza. But, he says, this next time he prays that the reconstruction comes with a guarantee – that when he rebuilds his house, it will not
be destroyed in the blink of an eye while the world sits silent. “I had started to feel hopeful about a possible ceasefire taking effect soon,” Murtaja says, adding, “but after I lost my house, the house that I spent ages building and maintaining, I lost hope. And I don’t think I need it any more.” Murtaja now believes that any ceasefire would be too little, too late for his family whose sense of security has forever been destroyed. “I don’t think it would make much of a difference to us if they announced a c e a s e f i r e n o w, unfortunately,” he says. “We l o s t h o p e . We l o s t everything.”
‘Tobago oil spill could get worse’ From page 8 Most are of different lengths and uses. If the TT investigating team measures the length and width of the vessel, this would be the first step to identifying the model of this vessel and/or confirming whether it’s a freight vessel or a tanker and would narrow down an International Maritime Organisation search of the possible owner/s. “Secondly, and much easier, since this vessel sails under a St. Kitts and Nevis flag of convenience, why haven’t our team already contacted the St. Kitts and Nevis authorities to reveal the owner’s names and all details of the capacity and use of this vessel? Certainly, they should have records of what this Gulfstream is equipped to do. Or do they? And if not, why not?” FFOS also called for more skimmers to be used in the clean-up operations.
“According to the 2014 National Oil Spill Contingency Plan (NOSCP), Petrotrin owned three vacuum skimmers and five other types of skimmers. Where are these skimmers today? BpTT has three rope skimmers, and BHP has three skimmers. Why haven’t these skimmers been immediately deployed? Now the oil is spreading northwest!” A release by TEMA on Monday noted that the oil slick measures 48 nautical miles (approximately 88km) in length and 0.13 nautical miles (approximately 248m) in width. “The spill extends from the west to the northwest into the Caribbean Sea, with noticeable oil weathering beginning around 9.71 n a u t i c a l m i l e s (approximately 18km) from the source,” TEMA said. FFOS said the vessel drifting undetected into TT’s
marine space is an indictment on our border patrols and needs to be addressed. “Does it mean that any vessel can enter our border and carry any substance… undetected?” it asked. Lambeau residents want answers on oil spill Residents of Lambeau who live close to the coast are calling for the investigation into last week’s oil spill to be concluded and the area cleaned and restored to normalcy as soon as possible. The spill emanated from a mystery vessel that was found overturned in the sea some 200 metres off the coast of the Cove EcoIndustrial Park around 7.20 am. Clean-up operations have been ongoing, with central government getting involved, the expertise of private companies utilised, environmental stakeholders
brought in, and volunteers recruited. Booms have been used to contain the oil spill and keep operations at the Scarborough Port unaffected. Newsday visited Lambeau on Monday and unlike a few days ago, the odour of the spill was not evident. One resident who spoke anonymously said the scent had subsided by then. “On Wednesday when the incident had just happened, you couldn’t even stay in the area – the stench was horrible.” She said she was visited by her area r e p r e s e n t a t i v e , Wa n e Clarke. “By Thursday, Friday, we didn’t have it so bad as compared to then, but it’s understandable based on what Mr. Clarke told us. I really hope that they get to the bottom of this soon.” Another resident, who gave his name only as Hiram, said he was aware of the incident on Wednesday when he came home from work and
asked about the stench. He said he had numerous questions about the incident.” Whose boat, how long was it here? So many questions yet so little responses – definitely a mystery.” A resident who only wanted to be identified as Phyllis said: “We just want an end to this issue. We’ve listened to both the chief secretary and the Prime Minister on the issue and we’re really glad that they could have come together on this, but we as residents – we just want an end.” Clarke told Newsday that one family was temporarily relocated. Secretary of Health, We l l n e s s a n d S o c i a l Protection Dr. Faith B. Yisrael urged the residents to be cautious. “They should stay away from the site, wear a mask when in close proximity, and keep their windows and doors closed –
if necessary. If they feel d i z z y, n a u s e a t e d o r generally unwell... they should seek medical attention.” She added: “The fact is that we have to get to identify exactly what the substance is, therefore, we encourage folks to be cautious – not fearful but cautious.” At a news conference with the Chief Secretary last Saturday, the Prime Minister said they are waiting on the results of the sample to determine the content of the spilt cargo. So far, he said, the authorities have not been able to determine if the oil-like substance leaking from the vessel is bunker fuel, fuel for preparation of the vessel or raw crude. Dr. Rowley said the identity of the vessel remains a mystery. But he added that the central government will have to provide the THA with whatever support it needs.
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T20 World Cup inspection continues in Guyana Site inspections continued in Guyana, with the Police Sports Club Ground being the latest venue to be assessed by the International Cricket Council (ICC) team and members of Guyana Police Force (GPF). On Monday, Deputy Commissioner ‘Operation’ Ravindradat Budhram, along with Deputy Superintendent Ronald Ali and Sports Development Officer Colin Boyce attended a visit to the Police Sports Club. The officer accompanied the ICC inspection team who did assessments on the cricket pitch ahead of the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. Among those present from the inspection team were, Mark Burchell who is Lead Teacher at Sports Turf Management, Melbourne Polytechnic, Kent Crafton, the Regional Curator at Cricket West Indies (CWI). S t e p h e n C o n n o l l y, Programme Leader at Melbourne Polytechnic,
- Police Ground recent site visit
Members of the Guyana Police Force including Deputy Commissioner ‘Operation’ Ravindradat Budhram, Deputy Superintendent Ronald Ali and Sports Development Officer Colin Boyce alongside members of ICC inspection team during Monday’s visit to the Police Ground. Melissa Dow-Richardson Assistant Director of Sports, Guyana and Azad Ibrahim Manager of the National Stadium, Providence. The Guyana Police Force (GPF) Ground is one of
several venues selected within the Caribbean to host warm-up and practice matches for the World Cup, hosted by both the West Indies and USA bowling off from June 1-29.
Chinese football fans celebrate British rule in Falklands after Messi no-show Messi during his second-half appearance against Vissel Kobe, in Tokyo. (Kyodo/ Newscom/Avalon)
The Telegraph - Chinese football fans outraged by Lionel Messi skipping the Hong Kong leg of Inter Miami’s Far East tour have reacted by supporting Britain’s rule over the Falklands. The Argentinian footballer has been at the centre of a row in China after he stayed on the bench, citing a hamstring injury, during an exhibition game against Hong Kong earlier this month. The fallout worsened when days later Messi appeared in the second half of Inter Miami’s friendly against Vissel Kobe, in To k y o , p r o m p t i n g t h e Beijing Football Association to cancel both of Argentina’s friendlies which had been
scheduled to take place in China in March. Now football fans have ramped up their attacks on social media by voicing their support for British rule over the Falklands. Underneath an Argentinian Embassy post on Weibo – the Chinese v e r s i o n o f Tw i t t e r – advertising a puppet show’s visit to Beijing, one user wrote: “The Falkland Islands are an integral and inseparable part of the United Kingdom.” Another wrote: “I used to support the Argentinian claim to the Malvinas. Today, I solemnly declare that from now on, I will no longer accept that the Malvinas Islands belong to Argentina”, The Times
reported. “The Malvinas Islands are part of the UK”, a third added. “They were before, they are now, and of course, they will always be in the future. Your country doesn’t have the capability to take them back either.” Beckham Booed At the match in Hong Kong on Feb 4, the 40,000 stadium fans were so frustrated by Messi’s failure to play they booed David Beckham, who part-owns Inter Miami. Beckham’s social media also came under siege following the match, with angry supporters targeting an Instagram post celebrating the game. “Messi even didn’t play (Continued on page 35)
Wednesday February 14, 2024
Soca Harmony is expected to light up Guyana horse racing.
Trinidad Derby winner Soca Harmony joins Jagdeo Racing Stables Trinidad Derby Stakes winner, Soca Harmony, is among three horses that arrived at Cheddi Jagan Timehri Airport, Timehri on Monday morning from Santa Rosa Park, Arima, Trinidad. The five-year-old bay, daughter of J’Ouvert/Soca Rhapsody owned by Lester Moore has now joined Jagdeo Racing Stables of Corentyne Berbice, Guyana. Soca Harmony raced on 22 occasions from age twofive in Trinidad - winning nine (9) races finishing second in seven (7) races, third in four (4) races, and fourth in two races. She has never been out of the money in her 22 starts with earnings of $308,148.25. The 2023 Stewards Cup winner was joined on the flight by four-year-old filly, Theory of Colour, and dark/bay two-year-old filly, St Vigeur/Market Rally. Theory of Colour is an improving filly, formerly trained by Glenn Mendez. Theory of Colour could be seen in action on Sunday 25th February at Rising Sun Turf Club, along with Soca Harmony. The two-year-old filly, St
Vigeur/Market Rally is a sister to now four-year-old filly, Red Ruby, who won two Derby contests last year for Jagdeo Racing Stables. She has an unraced threeyear-old chestnut sister in the country. She was bought last year by Fazal Habibulla as a two-year-old. All three horses are related to the sensational, TnT-based Princess Aruna, who lost her unbeaten winning streak on the turf earlier this month. That was her first turf defeat. Soca Harmony, a blacktyped multiple Graded winner formerly trained by champion trainer, John O’Brien is one of the most versatile horses to be imported from Trinidad to race in Guyana. She is the only Trinidad-bred horse who won the 2,000-metre Trinidad Derby Stakes, and Grade One 1,200-metre Stewards Cup. Her dam, Soca Rhapsody is a Jamaican-bred mare who also produced Soca S y m p h o n y, w h o w a s imported by Slingerz Racing Stable, but did not get to show her true potential, as she suffered an untimely death.
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Wednesday February 14, 2024
Shamar Joseph is ICC Men’s Player of the Month for January 2024 ICC.com - A fast bowler that burst onto the scene from the West Indies has been voted the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for January 2024. Shamar Joseph (West Indies) Not many players have made a more impressive start to their international career than Shamar Joseph, with the West Indies quick rising from relative obscurity to the cusp of stardom after just
two matches. Joseph’s introduction to international cricket was so eye-catching, that the rightarmer beat out strong opposition from England batter Ollie Pope and Australia seamer Josh Hazlewood to claim the first men’s monthly award for the new calendar year. It didn’t take long for Joseph to make his mark on debut in the first Test against Australia as the 24-
year-old revived memories of West Indies quicks of yesteryear when he claimed the prized wicket of the world’s No.2 ranked batter Steve Smith with his very first delivery. Joseph picked up another four Australian scalps on his way to sensational figures of 5-94 in his first Test appearance in Adelaide and backed up this effort with decent scores of 36 and 15 coming into bat for his side at
No.11. S o m e h o w, J o s e p h produced an even better performance during the West Indies’ upset victory over Australia in the second Test in Brisbane. He produced a spell for the ages to collect figures of 7-68 that helped the Caribbean side to their first Test triumph in Australia since 1997. Through two Tests, Joseph has collated 57 runs
at a decent batting clip of 28.50, having also taken 13 wickets at an imposing average of 17.30. ICC Men’s Player of the Month for January, Shamar Joseph, said, “I am extremely delighted to win this award. To get such an award on the world stage feels special. I totally enjoyed every moment of that experience playing for West Indies in Australia, especially the magic of the final day at the Gabba. Taking the wicket to win the match was a dream!
“It was a truly memorable moment for me, and I just want to continue to work hard and deliver more m a t c h - w i n n i n g performances for the West Indies with the ball; and when required also with the bat. “I want to say special thanks to the teammates and support staff in Australia who backed me from the start to get the job done. I will be the one receiving the award, but this is also for the team, and all the fans of the West Indies as well.”
RHT Pepsi and Albion win...
Jonathan Rampersaud From page 39 Matthew Pottaya then added 152 for the 4th wicket as RHT Pepsi took control of the match. Rampersaud struck eleven elegant fours and five sixes in his brilliant knock before he was caught at long on for 125 off the bowling of N. Persaud. Pottaya, who has grown into a solid middle order batsman, scored 46 with three sixes and four boundaries before he was run out at the non-striker end. Lucas Arthur 18n.o. and national youth player Jermey Sadia then took their team to 289 for five at the end of the allotted 40 overs. N. Persaud was the best bowler for the home team with 2 wickets for 56 runs off eight overs. Needing to score 290 off 40 overs to reach the final, Blairmont were dismissed for 218 from 31.4 overs. National under19 player Seon Glasgow blasted five massive sixes and twelve fours in a brutal 111. Glasgow received support from S. Bissoondyal with 24. Bowling for Rose Hall Town Pepsi, Jeremy Sandia took 4 for 23, while Raj Tika 2 for 30 and Junior Sinclair 2 for 31. At Port Mourant, Tucber Park batting first after winning the toss, were restricted to 134 all out off 32.4 overs. Former national player Ceaser 21, Garfield
Kelvin Umroa
Benjamin 19, Zaymul Ramsammy 17 and Leon Swammy 12 were the principal scorers in a disappointing batting display by the New Amsterdam based club. Off Spinner Leon Cecil 4 for 34 from 7 overs, former national under19 left arm spinner Kelvin Umroa 3 for 25 (8 overs) were the main wicket takers for Albion. Naeem Khan, Gourav Ramesh and Kumar Deopersaud took a wicket a piece. Albion overcame a collapse to win by three wickets. They were 72 for1 in the 11th over with Ari Afizal Kadir 47 and Damion Cecil 25 batting well. It took a level headed 19n.o. by Devin Lalbehari to get them over the line and into the final. Off spinner Ruben Latcha took 4 for 18 from 8 overs and Zymul Ramsammy 2 for 26 were the best bowler for the losing Tucber Park CC. The date and venue for the finals would shortly be the competition committee of the BCB.
Wednesday February 14, 2024
Kaieteur News
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2024 CWI Regional 4-Day Championships Round 2…
Harpy Eagles look to make amends following stop-start opening round
Kevin Sinclair will play a huge role for Guyana in both departments.
West Indies 2024 4-day points standing after round one.
G
uyana Harpy Eagles will resume their title protection campaign today when they face the Leeward Islands Hurricanes, as they seek to gain max points and move up from their current 5th place spot; following a mixed start to the tournament. Rain, among other factors, forced the Eagles to abandon their opening round match against Trinidad and Tobago Red Force, having just played one day of cricket.
With round 1 firmly behind them, Guyana will turn their attention to the Hurricanes who will further seek to disrupt the Champs journey over the next few days. Pacer Ronsford Beaton, who grabbed two wickets in game one, was called for suspected bowling action and was replaced by West Indies Under-19 speedster Isai Thorne. Guyana will be keen on turning things around against the Leewards, who will be a bit low on
confidence, having lost to the young West Indies Academy team. Despite their loss, the Hurricanes will be banking on all-rounder Jeremiah Louis, who bagged 8 wickets in the last round, while topscoring with 45 during his team’s first batting innings. Pacer Javier Spencer also grabbed a few wickets to get his tournament going. Louis, along with the pugnacious Rakeem Cornwall, Jahmar Hamilton, Terrance Warde, Kofi James and Daniel Dooram all
Yellow Steel Inc. supports Petra/Milo U18 Schools football Yellow Steel INC., a leading distributor of heavyduty equipment, has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the 10th Annual Milo U-18 Schools Football Tournament 2024, organized by Petra Organisation. The corporate backing was officially announced at an event held yesterday at Yellow Steel INC.’s Head Office, located at Parcel 1242 Block 1 Eccles East Bank Demerara, Georgetown. During the ceremony, Ms. Jacklyn Boodie, Secretary of the Petra Organization, gratefully accepted an undisclosed financial contribution from Uwe Van Dijk, the General Manager of Yellow Steel INC. In his feature address, Mr. Van Dijk expressed his enthusiasm for continuing their support of the tournament this year, citing the success of the previous edition. Ms. Boodie, in turn, expressed her gratitude to
showed glimpses of form during the first bout and could again make up the Hurricanes core of key players to watch out for. Due to the Red Force batting first, the Harpy Eagles will still want to see what their batting unit is capable of. Middle-order batsman Kevlon Anderson will be a key piece for Guyana, as skipper and with the bat. The likes of Matthew Nandu, Kemol Savory, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Richie Looknauth, Kevin Sinclair, Raymon Perez will be tasked with doing the heavy lifting with the bat. Veteran Veerasammy Permaul continued to stretch the gap between himself and any other active bowler in 4Day cricket, grabbing two
wickets alongside the ousted Beaton in Round 1. Permaul will need more from his fellow spinners in S i n c l a i r, L o o k n a u t h , Anthony Adams and Steven Sankar primarily. Thorne, who had a solid U19 World C u p r e c e n t l y, w i l l undoubtedly have all eyes on him, as he will be supported by fellow fast-bowlers, Ronaldo Alimohamed and Neiland Cadogan. Action bowls off from 10:00h at Warner Park, St. Kitts. Other second round matches : Jamaica Scorpions vs. CCC at Sabina Park, Jamaica Barbados Pride vs. Windward Islands Volcanoes at Kensington Cricket Club, Jamaica Trinidad & Tobago Red
Force vs. West Indies Academy at Conaree Cricket Centre, St. Kitts Guyana Harpy Eagles squad: Kevlon Anderson (captain), Matthew Nandu (vice-captain), Veerasammy Permaul, Antony Adams, Kevin Sinclair, Isai Thorne, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Raymond Perez, Ronaldo Alimohamed, Steven Sankar, Kemol Savory (wicketkeeper), Richie Looknauth and Neiland Cadogan. Leeward Islands Hurricanes squad: Rahkeem Cornwall (C), Kofi James (VC), Colin Archibald, Sheno Berridge, Daniel Doram, Joshua Grant, Jahmar Hamillton, Javier Spencer, Jeremiah Louis, Mikyle Louis, Ross Powell, Terance Warde.
BCB/Diors Bits and Pieces Under23 Tournament
RHT Pepsi and Albion win semifinal matches to reach final
Ms. Jacklyn Boodie, Secretary Petra Organization collects the sponsorship from Mr. Uwe Van Dijk General Manager Yellow Steel Inc. Mr. Van Dijk for his unwavering confidence in the Petra Organization and the consistent support extended to the Milo school football programme. The 10th Annual Milo U18 Schools Football programme is scheduled to kick off later this month,
featuring the participation of twenty-four schools from Regions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 10. The first-place finishers in the tournament will be awarded a prize of $300,000 towards a school project, adding an additional incentive to the competition.
The long standing battle between arch-rivals Albion Community Centre Cricket Club and the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club would continue with both clubs reaching the final of the Berbice Cricket Board/Diors Bits and Pieces Under23 tournament. Albion defeated Tucber Park by three wickets at Port Mourant ground, while the visiting Rose Hall Town Pepsi defeated the home team at Blairmont ground by 71 runs. Former national junior player Jonathan Rampersaud and Seon Glasgow struck centuries, while Leon Cecil and Jeremy Sandia had four wickets hauls for their teams. At Blairmont, RHT Pepsi skipper, Junior Sinclair, won the toss and elected to bat first. Sinclair was the first Pepsi batsman to be dismissed when he was run out for a breezy 30 with five fours and a maximum at 37 for 1 in the 5th over. His opening partner Romesh Bharrat was then run out for 11 and then former national under15 Seon Glasgow player Ramzan Koobeer was stumped for 15 at 70 for 3. National under19 player Jonathan Rampersaud and Guyana under17 vice captain (Continued on page 38)
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday February 14, 2024
Russell and Rutherford earn Windies 37-run consolation win against Australia PERTH, Australia (AP) — Andre Russell and Sherfane Rutherford smashed half centuries in a record-breaking sixthwicket stand to propel the West Indies to 37run consolation win over Australia in the third and final Twenty20 match yesterday. Russell destroyed the pace and spin of Adam Zampa late in the innings to score 71 off just 29 balls while Rutherford contributed 67 off 40 deliveries as West Indies posted 220-6 after winning the toss and electing to
bat. David Warner briefly kept Australia in the hunt for a 3-0 sweep in the series with 81 off 49 balls before the home team faltered against offspinner Roston Chase and was restricted to 183-5. Chase, one of the two changes West Indies made for the final game, derailed Australia’s pursuit with the wickets of Warner and Josh Inglis in one over to end up with 2-19. “It’s a very good feeling to come here and
Roston Chase (10) took a match-winning 2 for 19. (Getty Images and Cricket Australia)
Romario Shepherd (centre) celebrates the wicket of Aaron Hardie. (Getty Images and Cricket Australia)
get a win,” West Indies captain Rowman Powell said after losing the series 2-1. “The boys showed some heart and courage. We had good plans through the three games but execution let us down.” Australia fast bowler Xavier Bartlett, who impressed in his ODI debut against the West Indies, continued to prosper in whiteball cricket by getting openers Johnson Charles and Kyle Mayers in his debut T20 after Josh Hazlewood was rested for the final game. Charles edged Barlett’s fifth delivery to wicketkeeper Inglis and Mayers played a short ball back onto his stumps in the pacer’s second over. Zampa had Chase (37) clean bowled soon after the batting powerplay and when Powell edged Aaron Hardie behind the wickets the West Indies stuttered at 79-5 in the ninth over. But Russell and Rutherford didn’t get bogged down against the pace and revived things with a strong partnership. They raised the best-ever sixth-wicket stand in a T20 international by contributing an aggressive 139 runs off just 67 balls. Zampa’s penultimate over went for 28 with Russell clubbing four sixes and a four and the legspinner finished with 1-65 – the most expensive figures by an Australia in a T20.
Russell, who hit seven sixes and four boundaries, finally holed out at mid-off in the last over of fast bowler Spencer Johnson (149). Warner was probably playing his last home international as he’s planning to retire from all forms of cricket after the T20 World Cup in June. And he gave Australia a rollicking start by completing his half century off 25 balls. But the introduction of spinners Akeal Hosein and Chase halted Australia’s pursuit. Captain Mitchell Marsh holed out to Hosein after making 16 and Warner thumped Chase straight to Russell at deep midwicket. Glenn Maxwell, who made a brisk unbeaten century in the second T20, was clean bowled by Romario Shepherd with a superb leg stump yorker for 12 before Tim David made a rapid unbeaten 41 off 19 balls and reduced the margin of defeat. “Thought we were in a great position, went for the kill to try and get a few more wickets,” Marsh said. “We were on the wrong end of it, fair play to West Indies.” Scores: West Indies 220 for 6 (Russell 71, Rutherford 67*, Bartlett 2-37) beat Australia 183 for 5 (Warner 81, David 41*, Chase 2-19, Shepherd 2-31) by 37 runs.
Kaieteur News
Wednesday February 14, 2024
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Khan, Shariff take top honours in Chess Grand Prix 2 tourney
Taffin Khan (left) receives his winner’s cheque from GCF President Anand Raghunauth at the closing of the Second leg of Chess Grand Prix. Reigning National Chess champion Taffin Khan and former female champion Sasha Shariff emerged victorious in the Grand Prix 2 four-day tournament on Sunday at the National Stadium. The eight-round tournament was sponsored by International Import and Supplies, and attracted 14 female and 23 male chess players. However, it was Khan, who outmaneuvered almost every opponent over the
eight-round tournament, missed the eighth point in his game against Loris Nathoo, which concluded in a draw. Khan later received a cash prize winning of $20,000 for clinching the top spot. Queen’s College student Kyle Couchman was awarded a much-deserved second place and a cash prize of $10,000 after he gained 6.5 points. He displayed remarkable skills over the chess board to achieve the second spot.
Second place Kyle Couchman in action during the final day of the event.
Sasha Shariff
Both opponents had faced off late last year in a fast-paced playoff to determine the 2023 National Champion. Similarly they entered that match with equal scores; an equal effort was made by both players, but not enough for Khan to walk away with the full point. In another notable game highlights, round 8 witnessed Challenger Loris Nathoo going down to a mating attack by young Jaden Taylor. The 21-yearold Taylor unleashed a campaign at the right moment using a pawn, Rook, Bishop, and Queen working in unison to strip Nathoo’s King of its defenses. The heavy bombardment deprived the vulnerable (Continued on page 35)