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Jagdeo defends changing permits to force citizens to fight for oil spill compensation in Court Sep 16, 2024 News …says it’s a “positive” Kaieteur News – Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo has defended a move by the government to secretly modify the Liza One, Liza Two, and Payara Permits to force citizens to fight for oil spill compensation in Court. Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo Kaieteur News, in an article published on September 8, 2024 under the headline ‘Govt. secretly inserts provision in Liza 1, 2 and Payara Permits to shield ExxonMobil from all oil spill costs’ reported that this has removed the legal requirement for an unlimited parent company guarantee, holding the oil companies liable for all costs associated with such a disaster. Kaieteur News understands that a provision was initially inserted into the Yellowtail Permit for the fourth deepwater development, dated March 2022. That Permit outlined new conditions with regard to oil spill protection for the country. While Condition 14 of the Permit requires Exxon to provide a Parent Company/Affiliate (of Operator and Co- Venturers (CoVs)) guarantee, it is clear that the coverage for oil spill protection is not unlimited. In fact, citizens who suffer ongoing loss from such an event will have to take Exxon to Court for compensation. Government has included a new provision in Exxon’s oil Permits forcing citizens to take the company to Court for compensation from an oil spill. Condition 14.3 of the Yellowtail Permit states, “The above individually or a combination shall at least be guided by an estimate of the sum of the reasonably credible costs, expenses, and liabilities that may arise from any breaches of this permit. Liabilities are considered to include costs associated with responding to an incident, clean-up, remediation and monitoring. The estimation is not expected to address unidentifiable or inestimable costs which may be associated with compensation for loss and ongoing damage to other parties, and which can be pursued through civil action.” This means that citizens who suffer losses as a result of a spill will have to challenge Exxon is Court for compensation. Notably, the government moved to secretly modify all of the previously issued Permits granted to Exxon, protecting the multinational corporation from all oil spill costs. The first two Permits for the Liza One and Liza Two oil projects were approved by the previous Coalition government while the third project, Payara was approved by the PPP government. These Permits did not previously feature this provision. During his Thursday press engagement, Jagdeo told reporters that this decision was a “positive”. He explained, “Somehow there was a feeling that the guarantee covered all the cost and what we have made clear here in this provision that it excludes, that they are still liable for, but it excludes cost associated with compensation. That the guarantees cover only clean-up cost. Now this is a positive. They made it look like it’s a negative.” Jagdeo argued that though the provision was included in the Environmental Permits which are public documents, Kaieteur News reported that the provision was secretly inserted. Additionally, he noted that the government intends to soon pass oil spill legislation in the upcoming Parliament to hold all oil and gas companies to account. He said this would ensure even transporters are liable for all costs associated with any spill, including cost for compensation to those who suffer loss of economic activities. Legal strength of ExxonMobil While the government defends modifying the Permits, leaving citizens at the mercy of Exxon, it should be noted that Exxon has on multiple occasions refused to pay up costs ordered by the Court. On March 24, 1989, an oil tanker owned by ExxonMobil Corporation and dubbed the “Exxon Valdez” ran aground in a body of water in the Gulf of Alaska. It was heading to Long Beach, California with over 50 million barrels of oil but had hit a well-known navigation hazard in Alaska’s waters. The impact of the collision tore open the ship’s hull, causing some 11 million gallons of crude oil to spill into the ecologically sensitive location. At the time, it was the largest single oil spill in U.S. waters. Initial attempts to contain the oil failed, and in the months that followed, the oil slick spread, eventually blackening about 1,300 miles of Alaska’s coastline. It was, and still is, regarded as one of the largest environmental disasters in U.S. history. It was reported that a lawsuit was filed against ExxonMobil on behalf of more than 32,000 fishermen, native Alaskans and landowners, resulting in an award of US$5 billion in punitive damages. Exxon’s full strength in the courts was demonstrated here. In 2008, it appealed the case and got the judgment reduced to $507.5 million. (See link for article referenced: https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/magazine/the-exxon-valdez-oil-spill/2017/03/14/d131b630-f876-11e6-9845-576c69081518_story.html). Importantly, the case would drag out for 26 years, showing just how tedious and expensive environmental litigation is. In fact, the case came to a close in October 2015 in a federal district court in downtown Anchorage, Alaska. According to international media reports, the state and federal governments decided not to pursue a final US$100-million from ExxonMobil over its 1989 oil spill in Prince William Sound, as the process was simply too expensive. The Valdez spill had immense impacts on fish and wildlife and their habitats, as well as for local industries and communities. The oil killed an estimated 250,000 seabirds, 2,800 sea otters, 300 harbor seals, 250 bald eagles, as many as 22 killer whales, and billions of salmon and herring eggs. Related Similar Articles

Pres. Ali unveils plan for special investment zones Sep 16, 2024 News – promises attractive tax regimes, infrastructure support for manufacturing sector Kaieteur News – Ahead of the inaugural International Business Conference, which will be held in October, President Irfaan Ali has laid out his administration’s vision for the manufacturing sector, urging local and international stakeholders to seize the opportunity to invest in the nation’s booming industries. President Irfaan Ali According to a press statement by ActionInvest, during an exclusive interview, the head-of-state underscored the critical role the IBC 2024 will play in fostering strategic partnerships to drive growth and development in the manufacturing sector. “We have always been competitive in manufacturing,” said President Ali. “But now, with the impending reduction of energy costs by half and the improvement of energy reliability through new power plants, Guyana is poised to become one of the most competitive locations for investment in manufacturing.” The President also highlighted the government’s focus on addressing long-standing challenges, particularly high energy costs, which have historically hindered manufacturing growth. He pointed to the second power plant as a game-changer that would ensure affordable and reliable energy for manufacturing businesses. President Ali underscored that Guyana’s geographic positioning and expanding trade relationships are key factors driving the country’s growing appeal to investors. “Our geographic positioning also offers us easy access to Brazil, and right now we are investing in infrastructure to integrate northern Brazil with all of Guyana,” he said. The President also highlighted the importance of bilateral trade agreements within the wider region, adding that “the ease and access to markets is becoming much simpler, less bureaucratic.” A significant part of the President’s vision involves partnerships between local and international businesses, through partnerships that combine local knowledge with foreign technology and capital. “The IBC provides the perfect platform for these partnerships to flourish,” President Ali explained. “This conference gives local companies the opportunity to collaborate with international businesses that bring advanced technologies and resources. Together, we can build stronger, more competitive companies that will drive Guyana’s manufacturing sector forward.” Moreover, President Ali also spoke about the growth of Guyana’s agro-processing industry and outlined significant private investments already flowing into sectors such as dairy, poultry, and aquaculture. These investments, along with the government’s focus on value-added production, position Guyana to become a major exporter of processed food products. “The entire policy framework is designed to support agro-processing and manufacturing at every level,” President Ali added. “We are expanding cultivation, incorporating advanced technologies, and focusing on value addition, not just raw production.” Notably, to attract even more investment, President Ali said the government is offering a competitive incentive regime, including special investment zones in Regions 9, 10, and 6. These zones will feature tax benefits and infrastructure support to further stimulate manufacturing growth. With the International Business Conference just weeks away, President Ali urged local and foreign businesses to act quickly, warning that investment opportunities may become less affordable in the near future. “This conference is key because it brings that local firepower and matches it with the international firepower and gives us an opportunity to build partnerships because that is what we want—partnership and creating that network.” The IBC 2024 is expected to be a defining moment, bringing together local and foreign investors to tap into the country’s vast potential and drive its transformation into a leader in the global manufacturing and agro-processing sectors. “There is no better place for investment than Guyana at the moment, and more importantly, if you don’t do it now, I tell people in two to three years it will be too expensive for you to do. We are building a diversified economy, and manufacturing and agro-processing are at the heart of that vision.” He added, “As we build out this economy, I am very pleased that we are focusing on manufacturing and agro-processing because the diversification that we are seeking to achieve places these two sectors high up on the agenda.” The IBC will be held at the Guyana Marriott Hotel from October 15th to 17th, 2024, at the Guyana Marriott Hotel in Georgetown, under the theme: “Guyana: The Gateway to Opportunities. Related Similar Articles

Hague residents help police capture armed bandit Sep 16, 2024 News Kaieteur News – Residents of Hague, West Coast Demerara (W.C.D) on Saturday assisted the police in capturing an armed robbery suspect, while the manhunt continues for his accomplices. The suspect that was apprehended On Friday around 12:40 hours, the suspect, along with three others, entered the home of a businesswoman in Middle Street, Ruimzigt, where the group of four, three of whom were armed, targeted the woman and her workers. The businesswoman and her family reside in a two-story concrete structure, with a goldsmith workshop located on the lower flat of the house. The businesswoman was in her kitchen area while two of her workers (the 48-year-old and 23-year-old goldsmiths) were working in the shop. The businesswoman was relieved of several gold items, while her two workers, both goldsmiths, were robbed of their cell phones. She related to the police that while in her kitchen she saw three suspects at her backdoor, which was open and they pointed their firearms at her and told her to stay quiet. “They took her into the goldsmith workshop where they met with her two workers. The suspects relieved each of them of the articles mentioned above. The suspects then started to make demands for more gold and money, and, in the process, one of the suspects fired a shot in the direction of the businesswoman,” the police reported. Nearby residents, alerted by the gunshot, run towards the businesswoman’s house.  The residents blocked the road and the motorcar (HC921), which the suspects entered, was not allowed to pass. The gunmen and the driver exited the vehicle and escaped on foot into the direction of the Ruimzigt backlands. When the police arrived, they discovered a man with his hands and feet tied, in the backseat of the car, with a head injury. “He was questioned about the injury, and he claimed that several residents in the area hit him in the head,” the police said. The man gave his name to the police as Garfield Benjamin called “Carry”, a 50-year-old fireman attached to La-Grange Fire Station and a resident/taxi driver from Stewartville, West Coast Demerara. Moreover, Benjamin told investigators that on Friday, at about 11:30 hours, he was at the Vreed-en-Hoop junction, working a taxi, when the four men approached him and asked if he was working.  He said yes and the men requested that he take them to Crane. It was reported, “Whilst in the car, he said two of the suspects pulled out firearms from their waist and ordered him to pull over to the side of the road. They then tied his hands and feet with plastic straps and put him in the back seat of the car. One of the suspects drove the car to the scene, where the other three suspects exited the vehicle and entered the yard.” A manhunt was launched for the four suspects and residents of Hague assisted the police in capturing one of the suspects on Saturday. Notably, the suspect confessed to the robbery and provided the names and details of his accomplices to the police. The suspect also corroborated Benjamin’s story. Related Similar Articles

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Woman on trial for killing husband disappears   Sep 16, 2024 News Kaieteur News – A woman who is on trial for the unlawful killing of her husband has disappeared and police have since issued a wanted bulletin for her arrest. Wanted, Lisa Haley Lisa Haley is accused of killing Dellison Haley on the 29th of July, 2017, at Kitty, Georgetown. Haley’s last known address was listed as Lot 385 West Ruimveldt and Lot 33 David Street, Kitty. According to reports, Haley was charged back in August 2017 for the unlawful killing of Dellison Haley.  When Haley made her first appearance before Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, she was not required to plead to the charge but was granted $250,000 bail. It was reported that the deceased was abusive towards Haley during their relationship. On the day of the fatal incident, Dellison reportedly armed himself with two knives and attacked the woman.  An altercation ensued and Haley disarmed Dellison Haley and a fatal stab wound was inflicted to his chest. In 2019, Haley was committed to stand trial in the High Court for the unlawful killing of her husband. The woman however has not been attending court. Police have provided several contact numbers for those who may be able to assist in locating Haley: 227-1149, 225-8196, 227-1611, 268-2328, 268-2329, 226-3405, 225-6978, 333-3876, 225-8196. Citizens can also report information to the nearest police station. Related Similar Articles

Motorcyclist killed in Versailles accident Sep 16, 2024 News Kaieteur News – Twenty-seven-year-old Regan Martin of Lot 532 First Avenue Parfaite Harmonie, died on Sunday morning after he was struck off his motorcycle by an alleged speeding car while travelling along the Versailles Public Road, West Bank Demerara. Dead, Regan Martin The Guyana Police Force (GPF) in a statement said that the accident occurred around 02:30 hours. According to the police, motorcar PTT 2444 was proceeding south along the Versailles Public Road at a fast rate, and while in the vicinity of the health centre, the driver lost control and collided with the motorcycle CL 4994, owned and driven by Martin, who was proceeding north along the western side of the road. Martin was flung off his motorcycle onto a nearby grass parapet, where he succumbed to his injuries. The motorcar veered into a trench and was partially submerged. The driver had fled the scene. However, in an update, the police said that he later turned himself in accompanied by his lawyer. The driver remains in custody as investigations continue. Related Similar Articles

An appeal for clarity and compassion in the deportation case of a mother and her child Sep 16, 2024 Peeping Tom Peeping Tom… Kaieteur News – Over the weekend, a report in this newspaper surfaced of a deportation case involving a woman who claims to be the mother of a three-year-old Guyanese-born child. The immigration authorities in Guyana reportedly had applied to the court for a deportation order against the woman, presumably for not renewing her application to extend her stay in the country. This case raises several troubling questions and concerns. Why was a deportation order applied for? What offence, if any, did she commit other than overstaying her time? Has she been charged with any criminal offence, or is this merely a case of overstaying her time in Guyana, a term often used to describe someone who has not applied for an extension of their stay? If the primary reason for her deportation is overstaying, this case reveals a deeper problem in Guyana—one that could have far-reaching social and economic consequences. There are tens of thousands of foreign nationals currently living in Guyana who are either undocumented or without proper work permits. These individuals, many of whom work in sectors like construction, have become integral to the country’s economy. Without them, our labor force would shrink significantly, hampering development. The immigration authorities need to provide clarity on this case, as it touches not just on legal principles but also on humanitarian concerns. This woman is reportedly being deported, and in doing so, she is being forced to leave behind her young child. She would have to reapply to return to Guyana to see her child, but there are concerns if that would even be allowed. In countries like the United States, deported individuals often face extreme difficulty reentering legally, and it may be the same in Guyana. The best interests of the child must be the paramount consideration in this matter. We are reminded of the controversy that erupted in the United States where mothers who illegally entered the country were separated from their children. The policy of separating children from their parents at the U.S. border gained widespread attention in 2018 under the Trump administration’s “zero tolerance” immigration policy. This policy mandated the prosecution of all adults illegally crossing the U.S.-Mexico border, which led to children being separated from their parents because children could not be held in federal criminal detention centers. In 2018, following public outrage and legal challenges, President Trump signed an executive order to end the practice, and a federal judge ordered the government to reunite separated families. However, the process of reunification has been slow, complicated by poor record-keeping and difficulties in locating parents who had been deported while their children remained in U.S. custody. In this case with the Venezuelan woman, one can only hope that some astute legal mind will intervene and seek a stay of execution of that deportation order if it is still possible at this stage. Alternatively, President Irfaan Ali should examine the full circumstances of this case and offer a pardon to the woman, if indeed her only offence was failing to apply for an extension of her stay. This is not an unreasonable request. After all, every nation that seeks to maintain the moral high ground must balance the enforcement of immigration laws with compassion and common sense. Guyana must not allow itself to be perceived as one of those nations that applies to expel illegal immigrants without regard for humanitarian concerns. We are better than that! Immigration is a global issue, and Guyana is no stranger to the phenomenon. During the country’s most difficult times, tens of thousands of Guyanese went abroad in search of better opportunities. Many of them were undocumented, entering foreign lands without the proper visas or overstaying their time once there. In many instances, these Guyanese built new lives for themselves, contributing meaningfully to the economies of countries like the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. They found work in restaurants, factories, hospitals, and construction sites, often doing the jobs that no one else wanted to do. Those who stayed undocumented faced tremendous hardships, living in fear of deportation and often separated from their families for extended periods. Despite these challenges, most of them were not treated as criminals. It is time for Guyana to extend the same understanding and compassion to immigrants who have come to our shores. We must recognize that many of these individuals came here seeking better opportunities for themselves and their families. In many cases, they are working in sectors where there is a severe shortage of local labor, particularly in construction, where foreign workers have become indispensable. If this woman’s only offence is that she did not apply for an extension of her stay, it should not be grounds for her to be separated from her child. The immigration authorities cannot be rigid in our enforcement of immigration laws, especially when it comes to vulnerable individuals like mothers with young children The human cost of deportation is immense, particularly when it involves separating families. In this case, the emotional trauma for both the mother and the child could be devastating. A three-year-old child is in the formative years of development, and to be suddenly deprived of the presence and care of their mother could have long-term psychological effects. The mother, too, will suffer, knowing that her child is left behind, possibly in the care of others who may not be able to provide the same level of love and attention. The authorities should thoroughly review the circumstances of this case, taking into account not just the legalities but also the humanitarian implications. If the woman is deported, she may face significant barriers to returning to Guyana, even though her child remains here. If a legal stay of the deportation order is not possible, then the President should step in and offer a pardon. The best interests of the child must be considered, and that means ensuring that this woman is not forced to leave her child behind. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.) Related Similar Articles