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The Government of Guyana (GOG) has decided to proceed with arbitration following ongoing disputes related to the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract with Lindsayca/CH4 (LNDCH4). This decision comes after the Dispute Avoidance and Adjudication Board (DAAB) issued formal rulings on January 31. Both parties were given a 28-day window to determine whether to pursue arbitration, which expired on February 27.

Within this period, both GOG and LNDCH4 filed Notices of Dissatisfaction, signalling their intention to initiate arbitration proceedings. The arbitration will be managed by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), with the hearings scheduled to take place in Washington, D.C.

Under the Dispute Avoidance and Adjudication Board’s (DAAB) procedures, all decisions made in this case remain confidential. Despite these ongoing disputes, both GOG and LNDCH4 acknowledge the strategic significance of the project for the Guyanese economy.

LNDCH4 has resumed onsite activities, including piling work, and preparations for foundation work are on the horizon. In addition, construction of a cement batching plant is progressing, with steel for foundation work already delivered to the site. A workers’ camp is also being set up, with over 170 personnel currently mobilised.

Once completed, the project is expected to drastically reduce electricity generation costs, allowing Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) to lower tariffs by up to 50%. This tariff reduction is poised to have a substantial impact on the Guyanese economy, driving more competitive production costs and fostering wider economic growth.

ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL) has already completed the construction of the gas pipeline, and the necessary transmission lines and substations required for the integration of the project are significantly advanced, with completion expected by mid-year.

Despite the ongoing arbitration, both parties remain dedicated to ensuring the timely progress of the power plant and the natural gas liquids (NGL) plant. The relocation of gas and steam turbines, which are already in Guyana, to the Wales site is also set to move forward.

The GOG issued this update on March 5, 2025.

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An abandoned building in New Amsterdam, Region Six, was completely destroyed by fire on Thursday, marking the third time the building caught ablaze.

The first fire occurred in December 2024. After firefighters responded to the first call, hours later, another call was made when the building was observed on fire for a second time.

The building is located next to the Church View Hotel and the Nalico/Nafico Insurance Company. Last year, police had suspected that the building was being used by vagrants.

Meanwhile, Regional Fire Officer Clive McDonald had confirmed that last year’s second fire was an act of arson.

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Nineteen-year-old Kavita Bedsan, who was critically injured in a hit-and-run accident that resulted in the death of her daughter, died on Thursday.

Her uncle-in-law, Ganesh Gomanie told the News Room that Kavita succumbed to her injuries at the Georgetown Public Hospital around 11:00 hrs.

The accident occurred on Sunday, March 2nd, around 18:30 hrs on Line Path Public Road in Corentyne, Berbice.

At left is the couple, Tushan Surujnarine and Kavita Bedsan; in the centre is Eli Surujnarine, the nine-month-old baby who succumbed; and at right is Avinesh Naidoo, the driver Police are searching for

Reports indicate that Tushan Surujnarine, 17, was riding an electric cycle with his wife, Kavita, and their daughter, nine month old Eli Surujnarine. All three are residents of Lot 9 1804 Crabwood Creek, Corentyne Berbice.

They were struck from behind by a white Fielder wagon, causing severe injuries as they fell to the ground.

They were initially transported to Skeldon Public Hospital before being referred to New Amsterdam Public Hospital and subsequently, Kavita was transferred to the Georgetown Hospital.

Tragically, the baby succumbed to her injuries while en route around 09:45 hrs on Monday.

While the car involved in the incident has been located, the driver remains unarrested as investigations continue.

Gomanie also stated that Tushan is still hospitalized at New Amsterdam Public Hospital.

The family was heading to Skeldon to purchase food when tragedy struck.

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By Kurt Campbell

kurt@newsroom.gy

Ralph Gonsalves, the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, has made it clear that the recent Venezuelan naval incursion into Guyana’s maritime territory, particularly its interaction with Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) platforms, falls “undoubtedly under Guyana’s jurisdiction.”

Gonsalves, who is the principal interlocutor under the Argyle Declaration, a peace treaty signed between Guyana and Venezuela pending the outcome of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) process, made comments during a radio interview on NBC Radio on Wednesday.

The Argyle Declaration, named after the location where it was signed, is an agreement intended to help manage the ongoing border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela. The declaration, while aimed at maintaining peace, could face challenges even after the ICJ renders its final judgment, Gonsalves said.

On Saturday last, Gonsalves recalled receiving a report from President Irfaan Ali, informing him of the concerning situation. Venezuelan forces had entered Guyana’s waters and interacted with FPSO platforms. These platforms are located in Guyana’s EEZ.

“They [Venezuelan forces] interacted with the FPSO platforms, and these are undoubtedly under Guyana’s jurisdiction, because that’s the purpose of the oil exploration in that area,” Gonsalves stated. He emphasized that the FPSO platforms are integral to Guyana’s oil industry, which has become a significant part of the nation’s economy.

Gonsalves, who has been involved in efforts to mediate peace between the two countries, said that the Argyle Declaration was activated in response to the situation. “Our Argyle Declaration had to be activated. It’s the mechanism that was put in place to ensure peace during such incidents. It was really a matter of urgency,” Gonsalves explained.

“I was in the middle of other obligations, but the calls were coming in fast and furious. I had to step away from other commitments and make calls throughout the night to ensure peace.”

He continued to stress the importance of maintaining dialogue and ensuring that tensions did not escalate into conflict.

“You can’t expect that Guyana and Venezuela would have the same view on the matter. What we had to do immediately was to make sure there was peace and that no provocation would take place,” Gonsalves said.

He noted that both the United States and the United Kingdom, with vested interests in the region due to their companies operating in Guyana, were involved in diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation.

A critical point Gonsalves raised was the potential for a military conflict. “Anything can happen in a situation like this. Tensions could spiral out of control, leading to a full-scale military operation. We had to act fast to prevent that from happening,” he warned.

“This isn’t the first time we’ve faced such issues since the Argyle Declaration came into force, but we must ensure that such incidents don’t repeat.”

The Prime Minister also expressed his personal commitment to the role he plays in the peace process.

“I take my responsibilities under the Argyle Declaration seriously. I’m fully aware of the delicate balance we must maintain between both countries, and I will continue to work closely with all parties involved,” Gonsalves affirmed.

While the primary goal of the Argyle Declaration is to maintain peace during the ongoing border dispute, Gonsalves acknowledged that even after the ICJ’s final judgement, tensions between Guyana and Venezuela may persist. However, he remains hopeful that through continued diplomacy, the region can avoid a full-blown crisis.

Gonsalves reiterated that the Argyle Declaration is not merely a formality but a crucial instrument in preventing conflict and fostering peace.

“This is no joke,” he said. “Peace must always come first, especially in matters of national sovereignty and territorial integrity. The role of the international community, including CARICOM, the United States, and the United Kingdom, is pivotal in ensuring that peace prevails in this region.”

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See below the full statement from Mae’s Schools

The Mae’s School, having experienced the unfortunate event of a fire which completely destroyed its main structure on Wednesday, March 5th, 2025, is currently putting urgent systems in place to ensure that the educational journey of its children continues uninterrupted. The building previously housed the playground, primary and secondary students.

To date, all students, teachers and staff members have been safely accounted for and this has been verified by the Guyana Fire Service.

The building was in the process of being insured but sadly, the documentation was not yet finalized, leaving the property uninsured.

Notwithstanding, the school’s management, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, is quickly moving to provide temporary accommodations for all of the students that were displaced.

Parents are advised to maintain contact with their child’s/childrens’ respective class teachers to stay abreast of all ongoing developments, as they become available.

We thank the Government of Guyana and all of the agencies that were on the ground, within minutes of this unfortunate event, to offer support.

We also thank the many parents for their cooperation and trust in our systems that are being put in place to recover.

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Scores of young women from across Guyana gathered at the Parliament Buildings on Wednesday as the Sitting of the Third National Assembly of Girls officially commenced.

Held around International Women’s Day, the Assembly allows participants to debate a self-chosen motion addressing issues relevant to the interest of women and girls.

This Assembly also marks the conclusion of the 2024-2025 Girls, Assemble! Programme, which aims to enhance young women’s political knowledge, leadership skills, and visibility in decision-making roles. It was possible thanks to the Imperial House in partnership with the National Assembly of the Parliament of Guyana.

The theme for International Women’s Day 2025 is “Accelerate Action” which places emphasis on strategic efforts to promote gender equality. Meanwhile, the Motion for the Assembly was “Extension of Maternity Leave and the Introduction of Paternity Leave.”

Speaking at the opening, was British High Commissioner to Guyana, Jane Miller who celebrated the Assembly and its participants.

“One of the things I always say is that as women is claim your seat. And that is exactly what I’m seeing each of you doing today. You have claimed your seat.

“Don’t wait for people to give you opportunities. Take those opportunities. And that is what the Girls Assembly is about,” she stated.

British High Commissioner to Guyana, Jane Miller, speaking at the opening of the Sitting of the Third National Assembly of Girls (Photo: News Room)

The High Commissioner further emphasised the roles of the Assembly, including learning about governance, policy, protocol, and gaining experience to participate in relevant matters.

She encouraged the participants to commit to accelerate action, support each other, and to ensure equality as a norm for the next generation.

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New Zealand powered their way into the Champions Trophy final with a thumping 50-run win over South Africa after centuries from Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson.

The Black Caps opted to bat first in Lahore and posted a tournament-record 362-6 in a superbly-paced one-day innings.

It was built on a 164-run partnership for the second wicket between Ravindra and Williamson, who registered their fifth and 15th ODI hundreds respectively.

Despite both falling shortly after reaching three figures, New Zealand kept going and plundered 110 runs from the final 10 overs thanks to the big-hitting of Daryl Mitchell, who made 49 from 37 balls, and Glenn Phillips, who finished unbeaten on 49 from 27.

Facing a daunting total, albeit on pitch that could hardly have been friendlier to the batters, South Africa attempted to mirror the Kiwis’ approach.

The chase started well, with Proteas skipper Temba Bavuma and Rassie van der Dussen putting on 105 for the second wicket.

However, unlike Ravindra and Williamson, they were unable to kick on, with New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner dismissing them both – and the dangerous Heinrich Klaasen – in a brilliant spell during the middle overs.

With the required run-rate climbing quickly, South Africa had to keep attacking but the wickets kept tumbling and, despite David Miller bringing up a 67-ball century from the last ball of the match, they finished well short on 312-9.

New Zealand will now travel to Dubai to face India in Sunday’s final, hoping to win the trophy for a second time, 25 years on since they won their only ICC white-ball title. (BBC)

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Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, Wednesday morning visited Mae’s Schools in Subryanville, which was tragically destroyed by fire. The blaze, which began just before 8:00 hrs, quickly spread across the school, which serves over 1,000 students across Nursery, Primary, and Secondary levels.

Fortunately, most students had not yet arrived for the school day, and those on site were swiftly evacuated. The Guyana Fire Service responded immediately, working tirelessly to contain the fire.

During her visit, Minister Manickchand expressed her deep concern for the affected students, teachers, and their families. She assured that the Ministry of Education, along with the Government of Guyana, would provide full support to ensure that the displaced students continue their education without disruption. This includes prioritising Grade 6 and Grade 11 students, who are preparing for the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) and Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations.

Photo: Ministry of Education

The Minister was accompanied by senior officials from the Ministry’s Examinations Division and School Support Services, demonstrating the Government’s strong commitment to prioritising the welfare and education of the affected students. Minister Manickchand was also joined by the Honourable Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, and the Honourable Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, who both pledged their ministries’ support during this challenging time.

The Government of Guyana is fully committed to ensuring that students are accommodated at nearby schools and that all necessary resources are provided to support their ongoing education. The Ministry of Education will continue to work closely with the school’s administration, parents, and all relevant stakeholders to facilitate a smooth transition for the affected students and provide continuous support in the weeks ahead.

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The Mae’s Schools at Subryanville, Georgetown were completely destroyed by a fire that started early Wednesday morning.

Early reports indicate that the fire started before 08:00 hrs Wednesday. A parent said a small fire was seen inside one of the buildings and though efforts were made to extinguish it, the fire spread rapidly.

At least five fire engines were on the scene trying to contain the blaze and stop it from spreading to nearby structures.

Minister of Education Priya Manickchand told reporters that, as advised so far, all the children were safely evacuated from the Mae’s Schools, Subryanville.

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She also noted that the Government of Guyana will provide the necessary support to the school, particularly in accommodating the students at other schools.

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West Indies coach Daren Sammy believes some of the most sought- after regional T20 players can be an asset to the Test team and conversations have been productive in encouraging them to make the transition.

Speaking to journalists on Microsoft Teams on March 3, Sammy used the example of many international players who are known for their ability in all formats.

“One could argue that they (West Indies white-ball players) are not in our four-day regional tournament. However, I seem to fall back on certain teams (with) guys like (Virender) Sehwag, David Warner ­– all these guys who played Test cricket for their countries,” Sammy said.

Former India batsman Sehwag and ex-Australian player Warner, known for their attacking style of batting, brought that entertainment to Test cricket. It did not prevent them from being productive as Warner averaged 44.59 and Sehwag 49.34 in Test cricket.

Only a few West Indies cricketers play all formats for the regional team – fast bowler Alzarri Joseph being one of them.

Sammy said the most travelled West Indies players are the white-ball players and they can bring that experience to the Test team.

“Our players with the most exposure to different conditions…the most successful ones are the ones playing white-ball. Not taking anything away from what (West Indies Test captain) Kraigg Brathwaite and company have achieved, but there is a level of consistency we have seen more (from the white-ball teams).

Nicholas Pooran, Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell and Shai Hope are successful franchise cricketers. Hetmyer and Hope have played Test cricket before, but not in recent years.

“A batsman’s job is to score runs in different conditions,” said Sammy. “I am not just going to change the Test team into a white-ball team, that is not what I am about, but I see players who are consistent in our white-ball squads that can add value to the style and the brand (of the Test team) that me, as the head coach, wants to instil in our cricket.”

A hindrance to woo the T20 stars is financial as franchise cricket is extremely lucrative compared to Test cricket. However, Sammy believes he can still encourage those players to get on board and play the longest format.

“I think opportunities (are plentiful in white-ball cricket), (along with) financial reward. Probably those who use to play before and were out of Test selection for a couple years, still don’t understand the conversations that were had or the lack thereof when they were not playing.

“I think what encourages me is the relationship that has been built out of respect and trust as to the vision that we’ve had in white-ball (cricket), the culture that we have been able to achieve in those formats.”

Sammy said he has had lots of discussions on the topic with Cricket West Indies director of cricket Miles Bascombe “to see how best we could have all this talent being able to enjoy the best of both worlds.

“I think we are making a step in the right direction.” (Trinidad and Tobago Newsday)

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