Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 05-04-2021

MONDAY 5th April, 2021

' No.106321

Happy Easter to all Guyanese President Ali: Free ourselves from anger, hateful thinking and negativity towards each other

140 persons arrested –– at bars after Easter weekend ‘COVID patrols’

See story on page 03

–– Task Force contends with novel measures adopted to flout guidelines

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Application process opens for online scholarships Bandits relieve diners of millions in cash, jewellery

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Drone technology helping border-monitoring efforts

Look at your kite!

This boy looks on with a smile as his mother puts his kite to the test at the Kitty Seawall on Sunday (Carl Croker photograph)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 5, 2021

140 persons arrested

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 5, 2021

–– at bars after Easter weekend ‘COVID patrols’

–– Task Force contends with novel measures adopted to flout guidelines

By Vishani Ragobeer A TOTAL of 140 persons were reportedly arrested over the Easter weekend after they were found in various bars and entertainment spots later than the 22:30hrs (10:30 PM) national curfew that has been instituted to help curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.

According to information provided to the Guyana Chronicle by a reliable source, on Good Friday some 23 persons were arrested for breach of curfew at the SleepIn Hotel, located on Church Street, Georgetown. On Saturday, 20 persons were reportedly arrested for the same offence at the Altitude bar on Sandy Babb Street, Kitty, Georgetown, alongside an additional 31 persons at the Kairos on Charlotte Street, Georgetown.

Additionally, police reports indicated that ranks from the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guy-

ana Defence Force (GDF) discovered a large number of patrons at the Hommee Hospitality Hotel and Bar on Sunday morning. These persons were gathered in breach of the COVID-19 regulations, and at the establishment after the curfew period. Resultantly, 26 persons were arrested and placed on cash bail pending their court appearance.

Furthermore, during a ‘Covicurb’ exercise carried out on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD) on Saturday night to Sunday morning, it was reported that 40 persons were arrested for breach of the COVID-19 restrictions at the Boat House Bar at Supply, EBD. It is important to note that while the national curfew is from 22:30 hrs to 04:00hrs, the COVID-19 emergency measures state that businesses should be closed by 21:30 hours.

As part of efforts geared at facilitating safe celebrations during the Easter week-

A snippet from a video of officers of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) arresting patrons who were found in a local bar, in breach of the COVID-19 guidelines

end, the National COVID-19 Task Force (NCTF) had said

that the Joint Services will be conducting “aggressive”

nationwide patrols to enforce the COVID-19 guidelines.

According to an advisory issued by the NCTF Secretariat, all non-religious Easter activities, inclusive of shows, parties, limes and wet fetes are prohibited.

In addition to this Easter weekend advisory, there are gazetted COVID-19 Emergency Measures that indicate what measures have been adopted to curb the spread of COVID-19. These measures include the national curfew and limitations to the amount of persons allowed in restaurants and bars. As per these guidelines, these establishments are only allowed to operate at 40 per cent capacity.

During a recent address to the nation, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, noted that while there are several religious and cultural events ahead of the country over the next few weeks, citizens should adhere strictly to the approved COVID-19 guidelines.

“The COVID-19 Task Force has been asked to pur-

sue charges against owners of establishments that are found in breach of the COVID-19 guidelines,” he underscored.

Meanwhile, it was reported by another newspaper that businesses have adopted novel, clandestine measures to evade these patrols conducted by the armed services. These measures include using walkie-talkies, having lookouts and even asking patrons to park their vehicles several blocks away so that attention would not be drawn to the establishment.

A member of the NCTF Secretariat who wished to remain anonymous, told this newspaper that the Task Force is aware of the tactics being utilised to evade the patrols and flout the guidelines.

Nevertheless, it was noted that members of the public have been making reports of such clandestine activities. Additionally, constant patrols around known establishments is expected to deter such activities.

Application process opens for online scholarships

By Tamica Garnett

THE application process has opened for the first batch of participants in the “Guyana Online Learning Academy” (GOAL), where approximately 4,500 scholarships are expected to be awarded this year.

This first tranche offers scholarships across 84 different programmes from five different institutions. The programmes range from two to six months certificate courses that require no formal qualifications to master degree and post graduate diploma programmes that require a bachelor degree for entry.

The scholarships are part of the government’s overall promise to issue 20,000 online scholarships over the next five years. The scholarships are being offered through a collaboration between the Ministry of Education (MoE) and the Ministry of Public Service (MoPS).

“The MoE is dealing with the technical aspects, but once that’s done, the applicants go to the [MoPS] for scholarships because we don’t give scholarships at education, we never have,” Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, explained in an interview with the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday.

Persons can apply for pro-

grammes listed under the project by either dropping in a physical application to the MoPS at 164 Waterloo Street, or by submitting applications online at either http://education.gov.gy/ or https://scholarships.dps.gov.gy/.

A copy of the application was also published in the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday, and persons can cut and use those published applications. Applicants are required to submit a passport size photo, copies of their academic certificates and proof of identification, a motivational statement and a letter of support from someone in authority.

“We want to be able to offer training to persons who feel they need it without limiting that training to only persons who have been qualified or are qualified to traditionally enter the universities,” Manickchand said.

The universities where programmes are currently being offered include the University of the West Indies Open Campus, based in Barbados; the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) in Trinidad; the University of Applied Sciences (IUBH) in Germany; the Indira Gandi National Open University (IGNOU) in India and the JAIN “Deemed To Be” University, also based in India.

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand

For UWI, a number of programmes specifically targeting teachers are being offered. These include a Certificate in Teaching of Readings and three different post graduate diplomas. Under USC, a Bachelor Degree in nursing, which requires applicants to be a registered nurse and a Bachelor Degree in Special Education, for which entry requires that the applicant be a current teacher, are being offered.

Under the IUBH, threeyear Bachelor Degrees in four areas are being offered as well as two-year Master Degree programmes in four areas. According to its website, IUBH boasts that it is Germany’s largest University with a network of nearly 70,000 students and over 200 Bachelor’s, Master’s and MBA degree programmes.

Minister of Public Service, Sonia Parag

CERTIFICATES COURSES Several short-time certificate courses and diploma programmes are being offered by the IGNOU as well as Bachelor Degree and post graduate diploma programmes. IGNOU is a government-owned university established in 1985 and named after the former Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi.

The JAIN “Deemed To Be” University is a higher education institution located in Bangalore. In India, a “deemed to be” university is a higher education institution conferred with the status of university.

Minister Manickchand explained that though GOAL will only start off offering programmes at the listed institutions, plans are in the works for the institutions listed to be

expanded.

“This is not an exhaustive list, this is a first go. We are working with other universities. We could even get courses from Harvard. But it comes down to costs. We picked universities where the costs will allow us to do multiple persons at the same time,” Minister Manickchand explained.

She noted that Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has already been signed with the universities that have been listed thus far.

Under the MoE, GOAL will be managed by MoE Special Projects Officer, Professor Jacob Opadeyi. The programme will have its own website and staffing. Given the work down, the ministry decided to begin taking in applications, even as it continues to work on the website.

“We don’t want to wait until all of that is finished before we start asking people to apply. People can start applying now and we can start vetting so that when the classes do start, persons can go on. We have to do things simultaneously otherwise we would be wasting a lot of time,” Manickchand said.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY Applicants will be awarded scholarships on their pro-

grammes of choice based on their acceptance into their programme by the institution.

Emphasis is being placed on ensuring that GOAL will be made accessible to citizens in the hinterland regions, to ensure equal opportunity to all citizens.

“This is a programme for Guyana and Guyanese all across the country, designed specifically for the people of this country to give them opportunities. We are going to make sure the programme is accessible,” the minister said, adding that “We are presently working now on determining how the students [in the hinterland villages] can access these programmes.

Remember, it’s an online programme and they don’t have connectivity, so how are we doing that? So those are some of the things we are currently talking about and are trying to fix.”

Also speaking with the Guyana Chronicle, on Sunday, was Minister of Public Service, Sonia Parag, who noted that while some of the scholarships offered to public servants will form parcel of the scholarships under GOAL, the online academy is about providing a wider platform that goes beyond public service.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 5, 2021

Kites at the beach, fun at the Canal –– how Easter at Mahaicony maintains generational friendships

By Rehana Ahamad WE often hear about Easter being celebrated at venues such as No. 63 Beach, the Kitty Seawall, and the Joe Vieira Park, but have you ever heard of the magnificence of an Easter celebration at Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara? Well, to be fair, unless you are exposed by a resident or former resident, I doubt you would be privy to the grand affair; it is secluded, and despite the large numbers of patrons, the celebrations remain somewhat intimate, because everybody seems to know everybody. You see, no matter where life takes us, Mahaicony residents seem to adhere to this untold tradition that they have to return home every single year for Easter, with the exception of the pandemic period, of course.

Much like the rest of the country, Easter celebrations for ‘Mahaiconians’ take effect a few days before the lengthy holiday weekend, starting with the purchase of new clothes and picnic supplies, followed by the hunt for the most captivating kite-making materials, inclusive of the stickiest ‘gamma cherries’ one could find.

As a matter of fact, my earliest Easter memory surrounded the work of ‘gamma

cherries.’ I was about six or seven years old and it was Easter Saturday. On mommy’s orders, I wasn’t yet allowed to play with the well-decorated kite atop the wardrobe, so daddy was there to help me devise a traditional Guyanese contraption intended for pre-Easter play – the renowned ‘caddy ole punch.’ I spent what felt like hours trekking with my father in the farmlands aback my grandmother’s house for

sun, I was further tasked with gathering old newspapers and stealing ‘pointers’ from my grandmother’s broom. By the time the supplies were ready, my naptime senses kicked in and I instinctively dozed off in the hammock near daddy’s work station.

I don’t recall the length of my nap, but I do vividly remember waking up frantic, unable to detach two of my fingers from my face, apparently the work of the

truth is, at 26, a recurrence of such klutz-life behaviour is not exactly impossible.

Nonetheless, once the picnic and kite preparations are solidly in place, a typical

The trees at the beach make for good hangout spots

My brother Ashraf and cousin Azad getting ready to raise my nephew's kite

‘gamma cherries.’ Once we picked a handsome portion and returned from the hot

effective gamma cherry I had been rolling between my fingers when I fell asleep. I burst into tears as mommy sapped the blistered spots on my face with a rag soaked in warm water. Fast forward 20 years, I would like to think that I’m much wiser, but the

Year after year, Mahaicony residents anticipate the Easter festivities to catch up with friends and relatives

Easter Sunday at Mahaicony is celebrated within the home and among close family circles. For Christians, the auspicious occasion is marked with devotion and remembrance of Jesus Christ.

BUSH COOK As Easter Monday approaches, it is typical for ‘Mahaiconians’ to begin the celebrations at the beach – a breathtaking foreshore that stretches beautifully, connecting the villages of Dundee, Novar and Good Faith. With the backdrop of a mid-morning setting, families would be nestled between the gaps of mangroves, armed with their hammocks, chairs, blankets, as well as buckets and baskets of ingredients and utensils for the customary ‘bush cook.’

The many dishes being prepared by the different families along the beach, however aromatic, would be enough to confuse one’s nose.

Dozens of kites would decorate the often blue skies, and music and laughter would bombard one’s ears from all directions. Relatives and old friends who hadn’t seen each other all year, or perhaps even longer, would embrace and catch up over drinks, food and a healthy dose of nostalgia. These festivities would go on for hours, but as the sun threatens to set, the mosquitoes would begin sending a clear message that the beach play was over. It would then be time to back up, return home, and get decked out for the fetes at the Canal.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 5, 2021

Bandits relieve diners of millions in cash, jewellery TWO bandits, on Saturday night, stormed a Chinese restaurant located at Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara, relieving two patrons of millions of dollars in gold jewellery, electronics and cash.

According to police reports, the incident occurred between 20:15hrs and 20:30hrs on Saturday.

Reports are that speed boat captain, Navindra Kooblall, 34, and sales representative, Leon Dyal, 33, were dining in the Hong Xiang Chinese Restaurant at Lot 15 Pouderoyen when the bandits barged into the establishment, holding the men at gunpoint.

Kooblall was robbed of six gold chains valued at $2,145,000; two gold

car which was reportedly parked nearby. Police arrived at the scene a few minutes after receiving reports of the robbery but, by then, there was no trace of the suspects.

The entire robbery was captured on CCTV cameras The CCTV camera shows one of the bandits branerected on the premises. dishing a gun while the other yanks off a chain from The footage, released by the neck of one of the victims rings valued at $220,000; one Samsung A50 cellular the Guyana Police Force, one gold band valued at phone valued at $60,000; shows the bandits enter$400,000; one iPhone Pro GY$155,000 in cash; and ing the restaurant, carrying 11 Max cellphone valued US$200 cash; totalling GY guns in side bags that hung at $320,000; one Samsung $255,000. Both men reside across their shoulders.

A17 cellphone valued at in villages a short distance The GPF said several $150,000; and US$1,500. away from the robbery persons have so far been In total, he was relieved of scene. questioned as investigaitems totalling $3,320,460.

After robbing the victions continue into the inMeanwhile, the second tims, the two gunmen esvictim, Dyal, was robbed of caped in a white 221 motor cident.

Kites at the beach, fun at the...

As carloads, busloads, and in some cases truck and tractor loads of patrons proceed inland, they would be greeted with the celebratory sights that adorn the pastures connecting Dundee, Novar and Good Faith. The music being pounded by two-three stations of speakers would get louder and the excitement would grow exponentially. This essentially marks the end of the picnic period and the commencement of the party.

CHILDHOOD CRUSHES Once we showered and got dressed, the clock would read time for more fun, and more often than not, the parents, grandparents, aunties and un-

cles would head out to the party before the youngsters; we often require a little more time to get ready, because more often than not our childhood crushes and in some cases, old flames, are bound to be there.

Groups of cousins and close friends would stroll the stretch of pastures back and forth, dabbling in a host of fun games and catching up with the old friends they would catch up along the way. In the night skies, few kites would still be fluttering overhead, further decorating the scenes of reunion that plague the venue.

Persons such as myself who no longer live at Mahaicony, would intuitively search for the many familiar faces

that often characterise the diverse and energetic crowd.

I always counted on Easter at Mahaicony to catch up with friends with whom I went to nursery and primary schools, and as the untold tradition would have it, they are always there. I often get to revel at the sights of even my father reuniting with his childhood buddies, many of whom turn out to be parents of my childhood friends.

Easter at Mahaicony is nothing short of a spectacle that can be enjoyed by all, but there are many like me who show up every year, not necessarily for the jubilations, but in a bid to maintain and solidify the friendships and relations

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Application process opens for ...

“We’re looking to gain human capital for the public sector and nationally as well; by doing so, we are providing these necessary and relevant fields of studies for persons to gain the necessary skill set. We have different categories that we are looking to award, such as the general public, the disciplinary services, and the public servants,” she said She noted that while persons awarded scholarships will be required to give back to the country, in some cases persons will have to give back in the form of community service, and not necessarily through enlistment into the public service, as is the case customarily with public service scholarships.

“We are looking for persons who are coming to stay in the public service. But the MoPS has its usual budget for its usual awarding of scholarships in relations to what is necessary in the public sector,”

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Parag said.

She added: “It’s not going to be the very same conditions and requirements as with the normal scholarships through the MoPS, because this will be the wider public as well. It is more geared towards attaining a higher education, and so we are looking to do more community service in various forms to allow persons to give back to the country the necessary skill sets.”

She noted that the programme is about taking education across the country, in a holistic development of the nation’s human resource.

“Education is high on our list and attaining a higher education is a priority, and of course, we are looking to give equal opportunities across the country, in the different regions for persons who are financially unable to gain tertiary education,” she said.

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that have existed for as long as I can remember. Any Mahaicony resident would attest to the fact that the annual Easter celebrations have aided in the longevity of bonds that seem to go on for generations, even before my father and me. Also, the photos taken each year provide an accurate account of how many of us have aged over the years.

Because of the Easter traditions at Mahaicony, one would hardly find Mahaicony residents becoming estranged. As my mother would often say, “ayuh navel string chook deh.” And she wouldn't be wrong.

Unfortunately, the existing pandemic has forced us

to halt our social traditions and celebrate treasured holidays in unprecedented ways.

Of course, it is far from ideal, but the more we adhere to the guidelines, the earlier we could exit this period of plague. So for now, nostalgia remains the name of the game. And as we continue to observe the COVID-19

protocols, inclusive of maintaining social distance, I encourage you to embrace your memories and make use of technology to catch up with your beloved relatives and friends. Fortunately, we are blessed with the tools to shift our physical traditions to virtual settings. Let us indulge for now.

Monday April 5, 2021 00:30hrs & 11:30hrs Tuesday April 6, 2021 01:00hrs & 12:30hrs

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 5, 2021

Easter in Guyana TODAY, Guyanese from all walks of life would not be celebrating Easter as they have traditionally done in the years prior to the advent of the COVID-19 in Guyana.

Since the detection of the first case of the virus in Guyana, life has changed with emphasis being placed on safety against its contraction and spread. By virtue of the safety measures in place, national holidays are also being observed or celebrated differently, Easter included.

Easter, though having a deep religious significance, is traditionally a day for family outing in Guyana, where the beaches and open spaces are crowded with kite-flyers and merrymakers.

The occasion is a colourful spectacle with kites of all shapes and sizes dotting the skies, families enjoying a picnic on the beach or in the parks and old friends catching up on past events and current happenings.

Over the years, some traditions of Easter have changed. Today, many opt for the Chinese made kites and the locally readymade ones available at shops and popular road corners.

The practice of children running in the streets and school compounds with ‘caddy ol’ punches’, which are kites made with pointer broom and the leaf of an exercise book, one week before Easter, has virtually disappeared. The age-old ritual of fathers making kites for their children or big brothers and big sisters leading late-night kite project for their younger siblings hardly happen nowadays.

A vast majority of young kite flyers today probably never heard about gamma cherry, a pale yellow, sticky wild berry that was used, years ago, to paste the coloured papers to the frame of the kite.

These were an integral part of the Guyanese Easter experience, many moons ago, which every child growing up looks forward to; today, they still look forward to Easter even though things have changed.

While attention is largely placed on the festivities of Easter, the religious side of the festival is very much alive in the various denominations of the Christian community.

On Sunday, Christians as well as non-Christians gather at the various churches religiously to reflect on the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Son of God and Lord

and Saviour of Mankind, according to the Bible, the Holy Book of Christianity.

Jesus, as narrated in the New Testament, was falsely accused of treason and brutally put to death at the hands of the Romans, who nailed Him on a cross besides two convicts. The crucifixion of Jesus is observed on Good Friday and perhaps is one of the most solemn and holiest days in the Christian calendar.

According to the Holy Scripture, Jesus was subsequently taken down from the cross and placed in a tomb and rose from death on the third day, which is observed as Resurrection Day by Christians.

The life of Jesus exemplifies love, tolerance and respect, and as such, it has an appeal that is universal in nature or, in other words, it resonates with Christians and non-Christians alike.

Here in Guyana, aside from the festivities and religious observances, Easter is an occasion that unites Guyanese regardless of their religious beliefs, ethnicity and political backgrounds.

The Resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ tells a story of hope and the celebration of victory over evil.

The lessons on the life of Jesus and the story of His Resurrection are very much relevant to everyday life and Guyana as a whole. The values of love, selfless action, tolerance and righteousness are all worthy of emulation by all Guyanese and are vital in building a united, prosperous and principled society of honourable men and women.

As indicated earlier in this editorial, Easter celebrations will not be the same as in the years prior to COVID-19 as steps have been taken to protect citizens from the virus.

These include churches must not have above 40 per cent capacity and should utilise outdoor spaces where available.

Persons are also encouraged to observe Easter activities within their home circles.

Large gatherings are prohibited and Easter activities in public spaces such as parks, creeks, lakes, beaches and resorts are also strictly prohibited.

As we celebrate Easter today, let us strive to walk in the path of the Lord, and given the prevailing environment, pay due attention to the national guidelines to ensure our individual safety, the safety of our families and the safety of our friends.

A happy Easter to all.

A practical and progressive move by the Mayor and City Council Dear Editor,

be required to follow basic regulations used in many other cities worldwide before being THE decision to allocate space on the approved. There is going to be tremendous Merriman Mall for customers of Sleep In development in and around the city on Hotel and Casino to park should be seen the back of oil-sector activity and if it is as a practical and progressive move by the case that developers cannot meet such the Mayor and City Council that address- requirements, then they need to look elsees severe congestion issues that many res- where. Georgetown should ideally become idents of the area have complained about. like downtown Paramaribo or old Panama The fact is, this hotel and casino was City with an emphasis on preserving its approved at a time when issues to do with green spaces and historic buildings. But the parking and proper town planning were not present reality is whether you like it or not, being properly discussed. this hotel and casino is there and so finding It is hoped that similar projects will now a solution was the correct way forward

The initiative will also see much-needed revenues for the city administration that continues to struggle with businesses refusing to pay their rates. I hope that the President and the private sector can talk out on this subject.

If not, then the names of the chronic defaulters should be published.

Furthermore, this move by the Mayor and City Council is another indication that it wishes to move beyond the stagnation of years past and wherever possible to work along with the central government and businesses to make Georgetown a more

comfortable place to live. The joint work on a bridge at Hogg and Sussex Streets, Albouystown, and the recent meeting between the mayor and the President which saw a commitment of $100m in taxes from central government can only be seen as positive steps.

Political differences remain but in the end Georgetowners must come first and their welfare is the prime responsibility of the Mayor and City Council.

Yours sincerely, Lynn Nicholas

A suicide-prevention app will be a step in the right direction Dear Editor, ONCE again the Minister of Human Services and Social Security has shown what is possible with political will by launching a mobile application to assist in its mandate to eliminate violence and abuse across Guyana.

According to Minister Dr. Vindhya Persaud, the gender-based violence referral application will be available on all android devices, and is in the process of being approved for the

iOS app store.

Now that way forward has been paved, perhaps the Ministry of Health could follow suit with a similar app for suicide prevention.

In fact, a local NGO has been lobbying for this for years now. This could be a stand-alone app or a mental health app that includes suicide prevention.

As well, both Ministers Dr. Persaud and Dr. Anthony could collaborate with Minister Priya Manickchand to tackle suicide and abuse

at the school level. The Trinidad & Tobago media recently reported, “THE (T&T) Ministry of Education will soon start testing an online tool to test pupils for depression…” This is certainly a tool to which these three ministers can give consideration – test, set up and include in both apps.

In like manner, perhaps links to some of the many online self-esteem questionnaires can be included along with information letting users know what they can do if the tests show

they may be suffering from low self-esteem.

Additionally, the ministers/their ministries should find a way of including access to coping skills and resilience delivery via the apps, since lack of coping skills and resilience significantly impacts both abuse and suicide, as well as mental health in general.

Yours sincerely, Annan Boodram T h e C a r i b b e a n V o i c e

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 5, 2021

Many thanks, President Ali Dear editor, PLEASE allow us some space in your publication to express our deep and sincere appreciation to President Ali for his hands on and solution-driven approach to governance in Guyana.

It is quite noticeable that this committed leader of the nation would find himself on the ground amid the many hotspots only to complement the work of his ministers in troubleshooting and providing immediate solutions to the myriad of inherited problems the populace has endured during the past five years. Mr. President has been direct, forceful and honest in initiating cor-

rective actions for which those affected have been waiting for far too long.

A very important initiative by President Ali which has brought relief and satisfaction to the Hindu community on the important island of Leguan is his fulfillment of a promise he made and a commitment he undertook to ensure that their long-awaited crematorium would secure the necessary funding and will begin to be built in the very near future.

Thank you, Mr. President and thank you to the donor, The Ramroop Foundation. The people of this community shall always be grateful to you. Hoping that others will be as generous as you.

Of note is, not only did the President inspire the necessary donations, he implored on the community to make full use of the facility when completed and to ensure it would be properly utilised, managed and maintained. He called for all mandirs on the Island to assist in the functioning of the new facility.

The success of this new crematorium when in operation, along with the existing ones in West Coast Demerara and West bank Berbice could only be the trigger for other regions to pool their efforts and their resources in erecting such facilities across the country where needed and practical to

be built.

Others who wish to cremate would also be very interested. The current government in all likelihood will assist by allocating lands to those who are serious in building their community crematoriums once the necessary conditions are met and guaranteed.

H.E. President Irfaan Ali, we sincerely thank you for all great work you are doing in making our beloved Guyana, better for all.

Thank You, RAJ. Singh and Ramnarine Sahadeo Democracy Watch 2020

Hamilton Green out of touch with reality Dear Editor, REFERENCE is made to a letter, captioned: “Abominable decision to lease part of Merriman Mall for parking” (Apr 1) by Mr. Hamilton Green, former mayor.

It is noted that the entire City Council, controlled and dominated by members of Mr. Green’s party, APNU+AFC, gave unanimous approval for use of the space in question. Not all of Merriman Mall is used for parking, but just a portion. In fact, most of it remains used by the public.

Parking is a major problem in the city. There are countless businesses around the area of Merriman Mall.

There is not enough parking to meet demands of businesses. What harm is done in leasing land to a private developer for parking for his business?

This will free up parking spaces for the other businesses in the area – such as Bakewell, other restaurants, vehicle service stations, car repair shops, other small businesses, etc.

Mr. Green describes conversion of the space as an abomination.

Has Mr. Green forgotten his administration under his tenure as mayor, ran the dirtiest city? How come he talks of

a clean Garden City now? When he was in charge of the city it was okay to use Merriman Mall for a variety of purposes. But now it is not okay.

What is the point in questioning the productive use of the Merriman Mall land for parking? The land at Merriman Mall that is used for parking for the hotel business has been unoccupied for a long period.

It was abandoned and left undeveloped for years, including during Green’s tenure as mayor. It is not in productive use. The City Council had an application for innovative use to reduce parking and traffic congestion and it has decided to put it to productive use. Is that not making the city green or turning it into a garden city?

The City Council acted sensibly in leasing the land to a private developer.

It has done the same thing that Green did when he was mayor for two decades.

Green has failed to understand economics since he left the council. The parking would create jobs and the land would be maintained; it would be kept clean.

The parking would help to sustain some 300 jobs related to the hotel and other businesses in the area. Mr. Green should pay heed to economics and sound business practices, as well

Indictment on its tenure Dear Editor IT has now been revealed that expired drugs were in the system before the new PPP/C administration took office.

Having inherited expired drugs and allowing them to remain in the system for the duration of its time in office, (News

Source, March 31), must be seen as an indictment on its tenure.

Like the expired drugs, it too expired in December 2018 and remained in the system until August 2020.

Yours sincerely, Shamshun Mohamed

as sanitation before writing these kinds of negative comments.

Yours truly, Nigel James Bagotstown

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 5, 2021

Easter Messages President Ali: Free ourselves from anger, hateful Prime Minister: Jesus’ life is a perfect example thinking and negativity towards each other of selflessness and unconditional love

THE First Lady and I, and our son, Zayd, extend our heartfelt greetings to all Guyanese, at home and abroad, on this blissful Easter.

Easter is the most joyous season in the Christian calendar. It emphasises the importance of sacrifice, forgiveness, hope and faith.

These are the primary pillars on which humanity thrives. As Pope Francis noted in his Good Friday address and I quote, “To be happy is to let live the creature that lives in us, free, joyful and simple. It is to have maturity to be able to say I made mistakes; it is to have the courage to say I am sorry; it is to have the sensitivity to say I need you; it is to have the ability to say I love you.”

It is our hope of a better tomorrow that must allow us to free ourselves from anger, hateful thinking, and negativity towards each other. It is our ability to seek forgiveness, but first of all, to acknowledge our mistakes.

This Easter, let us come together as family and communities in peace, tolerance and hope in a future that brings us all together.

Christ’s selfless action and sacrifice must be the lesson through which we all should selflessly act and sacrifice for the greater good of humanity. As First John 4:20 states, “Whoever claims to love God, yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen.” Indeed, we are all brothers and sisters in humanity.

The coronavirus pandemic has been with us for more than a year. During this time, citizens have been forced to restrict their interaction with each other. Friends and relatives have been forced to reduce person-to-person contact in keeping with the COVID-19 guidelines. Most of our children have been away from school and the company of their classmates. Social gatherings and activities have been restricted. The restrictions have come at a price. Many businesses, including small enterprises, have suffered losses. Some workers have had to be laid off. Families have suffered a loss in incomes.

Easter traditionally has been a time to enjoy the outdoors. The long Easter weekend

Dr Irfaan Ali

in Guyana is usually celebrated with a lot of activities, including kite-flying, family picnics, the annual Bartica Regatta, and the Rupununi Rodeo. The coronavirus pandemic, however, has forced us to curtail and limit these activities at this time.

Guyanese have borne these deprivations and sacrifices willingly, knowing that they are in the interest of protecting our people and communities. I express my gratitude to all Guyanese who have committed to making the necessary sacrifices to protect our people. I also reiterate my appreciation to our frontline workers who were and still are at the forefront of keeping our people safe.

Sacrifices made in the interest of others are never in vain. If we do the right things, we will derive the right results. I have no doubt that we will win the war against the pandemic. The Easter story resonates with the hope that victory will inevitably prevail.

Christ's selfless sacrifice inspires us at Easter. His example continues to be a source of strength during the weeks and years ahead, when we must remain vigilant and disciplined!

May God bless you and your families.

A Happy and Holy Easter to all!

FELLOW Guyanese, Easter is a time to reflect on the ultimate sacrifice of love. As we observe this holiday, I ask that we remember its significance and reflect on the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Messiah and son of God. Remarkably, this story is given new life on the occasion of Easter each year.

Throughout generations, the story of Jesus has inspired millions to strive for a better world and to epitomise the virtues of Christ, as expressed in the Holy Bible.

His death stands out in history as the perfect example of selflessness and unconditional love. His life and teachings are centred on the importance of helping others and loving our neighbours, a universal practice across religions.

His unswerving devotion and mercy provide a remarkable example for all of us.

As we celebrate God's gift of freedom and his love that conquers death, I remind you that it is our faith in this belief that must embolden our confidence that good overcomes evil and that joy nurtured by this season is everlasting.

On this occasion, my family and I revere God's many blessings and pray for his peace

Prime Minister Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips

in all affairs.

Today, I express our best wishes to all for a Happy Easter.

God bless you.

PPP: Tolerance, humility, love and respect characterise teachings of Christ EASTER is one of our nation’s most anticipated holidays during which Guyanese from all backgrounds participate in the traditional kite-flying and other family-related activities that have become synonymous with the occasion. It is foremost a very sacred time for Christians across the world marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Easter also provides many pertinent lessons for all humanity through its teachings of tolerance, humility, love, and respect for others,

while offering an abundance of hope that one will rise despite being confronted with insurmountable challenges. It is that hope which gives meaningful purpose to all mankind for both personal and societal advancement. Unfortunately, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the need to adhere to all safety-related protocols, kite-flying, and other activities will be restricted. As such, while our celebrations will be tempered we urge that our spirits not be dampened as

we reflect on the significance and messages of Easter and the importance it can play in helping to realise universal peace and brotherhood among all. The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) takes this opportunity to extend to all Guyanese, especially our brothers and sisters within the Christian communities here and abroad, best wishes for this auspicious occasion. Our party also urges adherence to all COVID-19 preventative protocols.

PNC: The message of Easter is a blessed reassurance that Guyanese can overcome COVID-19

THE People’s National Congress Reform extends greetings to the Guyanese nation on the occasion of the happy festival of Easter – the most important event in Christian doctrine. Easter celebrates Jesus’s miraculous resurrection and is the core of Jesus’s message, ministry and mission on earth.

The festival of Easter is observed at the conclusion of Lent, a period which replicates

Jesus’s 40 days of sacrifice, self-denial and suffering. The festival teaches us of the victory of Jesus’s virtue over Judas’s venality and his life over death. The gospels of the Holy Bible recount Jesus’s agony in Gethsemane, followed by his arrest, accusation, betrayal, crucifixion and glorious resurrection.

The festival of Easter this year, owing to the prevalence of the deadly coronavirus pandemic disease, will find many Guyanese – except for our country’s doctors, nurses and medical personnel and enforcement officers and workers performing essential services – safely ‘at home’.

The message of Easter is a blessed reassurance that the Guyanese people can overcome the COVID-19 disease if we conduct ourselves correctly and comply with the public health measures aimed at protecting all of us in the year ahead.

The PNC wishes every Guyanese a happy Easter!

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 5, 2021

Opposition Leader: Be responsible, judicious Mayor Narine: Easter represents and considerate during holiday period victory and renewal

TODAY I join our Christian brothers and sisters in celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ and perhaps the most important words of the Christian faith – He is risen!

I extend warm Easter greetings to all throughout our nation. I am mindful that I do so at a time when the blessed message of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, signifying life conquering death has never been more relevant and needed, given the prevailing situation in Guyana.

At Easter we celebrate Jesus’s resurrection – the most important event in Christianity which is the core of Jesus’s message, ministry and mission on earth.

It is a celebration of hope, re-emergence and eventual triumph of life.

Easter reasserts the power of hope over fear and that the dawn of daylight will come at the end of a period of darkness.

This is our second Easter in the grips of the COVID-19 pandemic. The recent distribution of vaccines has given rise to some hope, but an atmosphere of fear for life

Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon

and livelihoods in all sectors challenge this iota of hope.

Our ultimate hope is through our undying faith and resilience this situation would change from darkness to hope, confidence and optimism.

May God almighty continue to bless us as a people and direct our path. Let us maintain hope and offer comfort to each other by our positive actions and with a determined spirit, knowing that we will rise above the challenges confronting our beautiful country.

I wish every Guyanese a happy, safe and peaceful Easter. I urge you to be responsible, judicious and considerate during this holiday period.

Minister McCoy: A blessed Easter to all Guyanese

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy

THE Easter season is undoubtedly the most solemn event among Christians worldwide. It marks a period in which life, good deeds, death and the resurrection of Jesus Christ are observed. Christian teachings portray Jesus Christ as the sacrificial lamb who paid the ultimate price for humanity.

This principle of personal sacrifice for the good and betterment of others, once made universal, will

ultimately see our beloved Guyana and the wider world a better place. Easter is the foundation of the Christian faith, and there is no better occasion as we brace for Guyana’s unprecedented national development, to use this moment to reflect on the notions of kindness, grace, mercy and sacrifice as we consider the reality of others.

Happy Easter to all of my Guyanese brothers and sisters.

I WISH to take this opportunity to extend heart-warming Easter wishes to the citizens of the City of Georgetown and Guyana at large.

Easter is the time of year that many Christian brothers and sisters celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, after three days of his crucifixion.

The significance of this holiday represents Eternal Life after death for those who follow Jesus Christ. Leading up to Easter, many Christians observe a period of fasting (known as “Lent”), whereby Easter Sunday marks the end of their fast. Easter also represents victory and renewal.

It is a great example to our leaders to renew their honour and carefully understand the significance of sacrifice and putting others first.

Many symbolisms such as Easter eggs, bunnies, and kites will be seen around the globe, whether for religious reasons or simply because these are

Georgetown Mayor Pandit Ubraj Narine JP, CoA

traditions that many follow. Traditionally in the city of Georgetown, many persons love to gather at the National Park and the seawalls simply to fly their kites for the season. Many attend church gatherings for fellowship, where they offer their gratitude.

During this time, many persons will purchase or bake cross buns. I admire our citizens for their optimism during this time, while remaining hopeful and exercising love, care, and patience As the Chief Citizen of the city of Georgetown, I wish to remain hopeful that our citizens will bear in mind that we are still in the middle of a pandemic, that persons will carefully exercise their judgments and continue to follow the COVID-19 guidelines during the Easter holiday.

I know many of you look forward to the events for the Easter season, but please remember what this holiday represents, and I do hope that in these trying times we remain hopeful and optimistic.

I wish you all an extra bright and happy Easter, filled with laughter, love, and clean fun.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 5, 2021

Young men and sexual initiation

SOME mothers worry about their adolescent sons’ sexuality more than fathers.

They worry about girls taking advantage of their boys. Girls nowadays can be brazen when they have their eye on a young man.

Unlike bygone days, they are not shy about the fact.

They inundate their desired beaus with phone calls, risqué text messages and other paraphernalia that parents might be shocked to see

or know about. In addition to the possibility of a broken heart, mums worry about their sons becoming sexually active and contracting sexually transmitted infections (STI’s), getting a girl pregnant or becoming infected with HIV/AIDS. On the other hand, some fathers believe it is okay for young men to ‘sow their oats.

They see it as a mark of virility. Instead of teaching their sons a sense of responsibility,

they give them the go-ahead to have sexual encounters through their complacency.

They might mention the use of condoms but do not enforce the necessity of a sexually healthy lifestyle.

Maybe likewise, the father is still ‘sowing his oats’, and his regard for women and girls (which his son inherits) stems from a sexual standpoint and not one of respect.

The first pangs of ‘love’ are bound to be confusing

for young people. Affection and a physically emotional connection to an independent person (who is not a family member) can be very powerful and misleading. Young people do not know this and may not listen if an adult tried to explain. They would prefer to interpret their experiences as ‘true love’ or ‘the real thing’.

Love is wonderful, but young people need to understand the difference between

like, love and lust. To’ like’ someone gives your mind a spark; you are stimulated and may have many beliefs and thoughts in common with that person. To ‘love’ someone is an intense shared emotion. The connection is heartfelt, warm, gentle and often mutual. To ‘lust’ after someone can be described as hungry, aching and tingling—a hot and spicy feeling. Young love is usually about sorting out which one is which. Mistakes along the way are unavoidable, but the sooner the correct ‘feeling’ is identified, the better.

Young men need support, information and advice about love and relationships from adults to whom they can relate –such as an uncle, father, grandfather or an older male sibling. Adolescents always have questions that need to be answered, but the person they confide in must be understanding and trustworthy.

It must be a person who will listen to them without judging their curiosity or train of thought, a person who does not talk down to them or belittle them.

It is always wise to advise young people to grow up before becoming sexually active. The more they understand about life, themselves and their bodies, the better chance they have of making informed or life-long choices.

By the age of thirteen or fourteen, boys see women from a whole new viewpoint.

They are fascinated by the female form. They carry intense sexual energy due to the testosterone surging through their loins. However, this change in their bodies is hardly ever discussed with them by parents.

At secondary school, a young man aged 15 was amazed at a group of his male peers. One boy grabbed his scrotums and chirped at the girls as they walked by.

‘Hey red bag’, he called, identifying a particular girl while practising his ritual, ‘I like you bad’. Then the group laughingly indulge in some banter before going their separate ways.

The young observer said, ‘Which self-respecting girl in her right mind would want anything to do with boys like them?’. He is right - it certainly is a tactless way

of letting a girl know that you admire her, yet this is the type of behaviour boys pick up from the men in our society.

Parents should teach their sons to be sexually responsible. It is not okay to ‘tantalise’ or ‘trouble’ girls or women for pleasure or fun.

They must instil self-respect in their children and respect for others regardless of gender. Heckling or shouting out remarks at girls and women in the street or anywhere should be discouraged.

How would men feel if women jeered and shouted comments at them because they are men? And especially as the majority of remarks are sexually oriented.

A young man’s attitude towards sex is built mainly on what he is taught by his parents, his family and the community in which he is raised. Talking about what is right about sex: e.g. - abstinence, waiting until you are grown, sticking to one partner. And what is wrong, e.g.having multiple partners, using others selfishly, being disrespectful - should be discussed with boys age-appropriately as they grow.

Nowadays, the internet is responsible for many young men receiving a distorted initiation into a world of sexuality. The viewing of pornography is harmful to youngsters.

They often see women being humiliated, tortured and raped and perceive this as normal behaviour – this can seriously affect their sexual development.

Pornography does not involve love, tenderness or caring; it is purely based on self-gratification – watching porn can be addictive. By speaking openly to adolescent males about the dangers of porn addiction and monitoring their internet usage, parents can ensure that porn is not their son’s primary sex educator.

If you are concerned about the welfare of a child, call the CPA hotline on 227 0979 or write to us at childcaregy@gmail.com A MESSAGE FROM THE CHILDCARE AND PROTECTION AGENCY, MINISTRY OF HUMAN SERVICES AND SOCIAL SECURITY

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 5, 2021

Linden gets first regional Labour Office THE Ministry of Labour will be establishing its first regional office in Linden, Region Ten, as part of efforts to decentralise its services.

The building, which is located on Crabwood Street, Mackenzie, was officially handed over to subject minister, Joseph Hamilton by the Regional Executive Officer (REO), Dwight John, on Wednesday. The office will house the Central Recruitment and Manpower Agency (CRMA), Labour and Board of Industrial Training (BIT) Officers stationed in Linden, as well as Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) and Cooperative Officers who will be recruited soon, the Department of Public Information (DPI) reported.

The officers were occupying an office space at the old CARICOM Insurance building on Republic Avenue and David Rose Street in Linden, along with officers from the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security.

Minister Hamilton, who was at the time conducting an outreach in the Upper Demerara-Berbice region, explained that the aim is to have Labour and OSH officers stationed in every region. This will ensure timely response to labour-related matters, workplace accidents and health risks, and ensure frequent monitoring and inspection of operations.

Additionally, a BIT officer has also been appointed to fashion and organise skills

Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton and Region Ten’s Regional Executive Officer, Mr. Dwight John, during the handover of the office

training programmes based on the needs of the respective communities.

“Every region must have an OSH officer, a Labour

officer and a BIT officer…we were able to get that building which was taken over by a former MP and luckily we were able to get him out and

The building where the Labour Office will be housed

so we can set up our labour office in Linden. I want to do the same thing in Kwakwani,” the Minister said.

Since the new government took office, the number of Labour Officers has been increased from 16 to 26,

while OSH officers have been increased from nine to 30. Officers will also be trained in Mandarin and Portuguese to ensure effective engagements with migrant workers.

These initiatives stem from the PPP/C’s manifesto to safeguard workers’ rights by re-establishing the Labour Ministry and strengthening its capabilities to safeguard the wellbeing of workers and ensure citizens can access those services provided by the agency.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 5, 2021

Six COVID-19 deaths in one day

By Richard Bhainie COVID-19 deaths continue to be a concern as the Ministry of Health recorded six new deaths on April 3, 2021.

The latest fatalities are four males: one 28-year-old from Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam); one 62-year-old from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica);

one 73-year-old from Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne); and one 81-year-old from Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni).

Two females also died, a

52-year-old and one 83-yearold, both from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica).

The deaths take the overall COVID-19 death toll to 243 since the country re-

corded its first case in March 2020. There are currently 12 persons in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 74 in institutional isolation, 1075 isolated at home, and 10 in institutional quarantine.

Guyana has confirmed a total of 10,580 cases of COVID-19 since the discovery of the first case here just over a year ago. Of that number, 1,171 are currently active and, of the 9,250 recoveries, 35 new recoveries were recorded on Saturday.

Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) has recorded 21 new cases while Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) recorded nine new cases. Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) has recorded eight new cases and Regions 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice)

and Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) have recorded one new case each.

All Guyanese are urged to observe the protocols of the COVID-19 emergency measures, which emphasise the need for correct and consistent use of a face mask when leaving home, the importance of maintaining the six-foot physical distance from others, and the need for good hand hygiene to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

If anyone you know is displaying any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19, or needs any additional information, kindly contact the COVID-19 hotline on 231-1166, 226-7480 or 624-6674 immediately or visit the Ministry of Health at www.health.gov.gy.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 5, 2021

Things looking up for Leguan residents …with various developmental projects now on stream

A farmer using the combine to harvest rice

EVEN with its small population of just about 3,000 people, developmental works have been ramped up on the island of Leguan lately, with a major focus on improving and upgrading sea defence.

For young and old, life is surely no walk in the park when it comes to making ends meet, and caring for the necessities of life there, but the people are generally positive, hardworking and diligent as they continue to pursue the simple things that make their lives happy and rewarding.

Things seem to be looking up for many on the island, as there have been many notable accomplishments in recent months too obvi-

ous to miss. To begin with, the stelling, which was, just weeks ago, an accident waiting to happen, is under major repairs at the moment. Apart from sea defence works at various points across the island, a brand-new crematorium has been constructed recently at Clairmont, making it the first facility of this kind to be built on the island.

Furthermore, after many years, the Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO) has been resuscitated, and has been making a positive impact on local communities, distributing hampers, organising clean-up activities, and even honouring women in observance of International Women's Day recently.

The Community Polic-

A typical day at Canefield Village

ing Group (CPG) has also been revived lately, with 125 members making up six groups across the island. The CPG, which operates as the eyes and ears of the local communities, works closely with the Guyana Police Force when it comes to foot, bicycle, motorcycle, car and boat patrols. The island has also benefitted from increased job creation in various sectors over the past few months, with the government hiring additional persons to aid several agencies to offer an improved service.

The government has further been assisting the elderly, single-parent families and other needy individuals to benefit from a regular hamper distribution, and has also reportedly helped about eight persons to start up small businesses. Each individual was given cash to build a chicken pen, along with 100 chickens, and 10 bags of feed.

President Irfaan Ali has also made promises to residents of the island to improve their sports and technology resources.

So far, approximately 400 persons on the island have been vaccinated against the dreaded Coronavirus disease.

Passengers getting off a boat at Blenheim

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 5, 2021

Drone technology helping border-monitoring efforts

By Vishani Ragobeer

DRONES are being used as part of the slew of measures to deter illegal crossings

at the Guyana/Brazil border in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), amid pervasive

concerns over the surge in COVID-19 cases and deaths in Brazil.

According to reports from the CNN, Brazil is current-

ly facing another wave of COVID-19, whereby thousands of persons are daily infected with SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes the disease

Officers who are now monitoring the Takutu Bridge in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo)

COVID-19). Brazil has also surpassed 330,000 deaths. Exacerbating this situation is that a mutated form of the virus -- the P1 variant -- has been discovered in this country; this variant is said to be more transmissible, which means that more persons can become infected.

“We're still apprehensive about the strain (the P1 variant) from Brazil and that is why we have sealed the border to prevent illegal crossings,” Director of the National COVID-19 Task Force (NCTF), Colonel Nazrul Hussain told the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday.

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Batavia gets $1.3M boat, engine to boost health services – brush cutter to maintain recreational grounds, public compounds

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, officially handing over the keys to the boat and engine to Deputy Toshao of Batavia, Murphy Gomez

MINISTER of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, on Friday, handed over a $1.3 million boat and engine to Batavia, to boost health care delivery within the Region Seven Amerindian village. The community also received a brush cutter.

The boat will be used to transport patients to the Bartica Hospital and for other medical purposes, while the brush cutter will be used to maintain the community ground and public spaces, the Department of Public Information (DPI) reported.

Minister Croal told the residents at the handing-over ceremony over that the initiative was a promise being kept to assist with transportation for the Health Centre.

He reminded the Village Council that the equipment needed to be properly managed to ensure every resident benefit from them.

“The intended purpose, as I said, is for health, so we are therefore reminded that the leaders of the community have a responsibility to ensure that the boat and engine is used for the purpose intended…I want to urge you to put systems in place for the safekeeping of the boat and proper management for the usage of these equipment,” Minister Croal was quoted by DPI as saying.

The minister also reminded the residents of the government’s mandate to improve the lives of citizens, regardless of their location.

Meanwhile, Deputy Toshao of Batavia, Murphy Gomez, expressed gratitude to the government for its continued support to the village. He said the vessel will go a far way in ensuring reside nts have access to quality health care.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 5, 2021

Drone technology helping border...

Since March last year, the border between Guyana and Brazil has been closed as part of efforts to mitigate the spread of the novel coronavirus, and, earlier this year, flights from Brazil ceased. Though these restrictions were instituted, trade has been permitted, but only on Thursdays via the Takutu Bridge, which is the official crossing between the two countries.

The size of the border has allowed persons to travel across using several ‘back track’ routes

or illegal crossings. In a previous interview with this newspaper, Colonel Hussain highlighted that Joint Services patrols and checkpoints at the Guyana/Brazil border would be increased in a bid to reduce the importation of COVID-19 cases.

On Sunday, the Colonel posited that the increased presence of the Joint Services has contributed to a decrease in the number of illegal crossings between the two countries, thereby reducing the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Furthermore, he noted that drone technology is also being used to help monitoring efforts at the border. Since the Guyana-Brazil border is expansive and quite porous, the Guyana Chronicle was told that monitoring efforts are difficult. The shared border spans about 1,119 kilometres (or about 695 miles).

LIMITED SUCCESS The Colonel, however, said that the use of the drones has yielded “limited success” thus far, since more human resources

are needed to reinforce the monitoring arrangements in various locations.

He also noted that members of the Guyana People’s Militia have been involved in the monitoring exercise. These reserve officers have been engaged in mobile and static patrols.

In January, the Regional Chairman of Region Nine, Brian Allicock, voiced his concerns over the illegal crossings between Guyana and Brazil.

Allicock related that many of the illegal crossings occur at

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night, where, despite the best efforts to patrol the area by the armed forces and community policing groups, travellers are able to “slip through.” He also highlighted that many of the persons who cross illegally travel in “cliques” that allow them to better manoeuvre the border restrictions.

In March, when the Guyana Chronicle travelled to the ‘Deep South’ area in Region Nine, the South Rupununi District Council (SRDC) had already taken steps to ensure that the spread

of COVID-19 was mitigated in the region.

In Aishalton and at several other communities, gates were erected at the entrance to the communities to monitor and record travel, allowing the village councils to engage in its own contact tracing, if need be. The gate monitors — which are women from the village — are tasked with recording the name and temperature of each person.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 5, 2021

Australia’s women set new world record in win over New Zealand AUSTRALIA’s women set a new world record for consecutive one-day international victories with a six-wicket win over New Zealand yesterday at the Bay Oval.

Their 22nd successive victory beat the record for the longest winning streak held

by Ricky Ponting’s Australia men’s team since 2003.

The Aussies have not lost an ODI since October, 2017.

New Zealand were all out for 212 with seven balls left in their 50 overs.

Ellyse Perry and Ashleigh Gardner both hit half-centuries to guide Australia home with almost 12 overs to spare.

Gardner finished the match with a six that took her to an unbeaten 53 off 41 balls.

It also took Australia to 215-4, the new world record - and sent them 1-0 up in the three-match series.

Perry’s unbeaten 56 off 79 balls was her 28th ODI half-century.

Earlier, Alyssa Healy’s 65 had given

Australia a platform to build on and from there they cruised to victory.

That was after their bowling attack had limited New Zealand to 212 having won the toss and put the White Ferns in to bat. Megan Schutt claimed 4 for 32 in nine overs while Nicola Carey took three wickets for 34 runs.

Hayley Jensen was bowled by Schutt for a duck in the second over and while fellow opener Lauren Down reached 90 before falling - putting on a 90-run partnership for the third wicket with Amelia Kerr New Zealand’s score never looked enough to stretch Australia.

(BBC Sport)

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Greyville 08:28 hrs Tupelo Honey 09:05 hrs Hereinafter 09:40 hrs Go Man Go 10:15 hrs Meet Me At George 10:50 hrs Star Choice

CHEPSTOW 08:30 hrs Discko Des Plages 09:00 hrs Blumen Glory 09:35 hrs Bellatrixsa 10:10 hrs Before Midnight 10:45 hrs Gleno 11:15 hrs On Call 11:50 hrs Cousu Main REDCAR 08:40 hrs Ilzateem 09:15 hrs Bear Me In Mind 09:50 hrs Danielsflyer 10:25 hrs Intrinsic Bond 10:58 hrs Soul Seeker 11:30 hrs Royal Guard 12:07 hrs Echo SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS

IRISH RACING TIPS Fairyhouse 09:05 hrs Fighting Fit 09:40 hrs Teahupoo 10:15 hrs Lynwood Gold 10:50 hrs Beacon Edge 11:20 hrs Fakir D’Oudairies 12:00 hrs Brace Yourself 12:40 hrs Lord Lariat AMERICAN RACING TIPS Mahoning Valley Race 1 French Accent Race 2 Best Of You Race 3 Love Twenty Six Race 4 Wizard Willie Race 5 War Act Race 6 Myositis Mystique Race 7 Big Al’s Express Race 8 Trust And Obey

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 5, 2021

‘Umpiring is all about mental toughness; like players, we also have form’ - Nitin Menon … 37-year-old ICC Elite Panel umpire says pressure situations bring the best out of him UMPIRE Nitin Menon, who officiated in matches across formats in the recently-concluded India-England series, has said that pressure situations bring the best out of him, and feels form matters for umpires as much as it does for players.

The 37-year-old was inducted into the ICC Elite Panel of umpires in June last year but had to wait till this February for his first major assignment.

With the pandemic forcing the ICC to appoint local umpires in a bilateral series, Menon officiated in all four Tests besides three of the five T20s and all three ODIs. Menon was lauded for his consistency in his decision-making during the Test series: he had a success rate of 83.87% for on-field decisions, with 26 of 31 reviews against him struck down.

Umpires Nitin Menon (left) and Anil Chaudhary officiated in the recently-concluded India-England series. (BCCI) “The last two months have been great,” Menon was quoted as saying by PTI. “It gives one great satisfaction when people notice and appreciate your good work. This series was always going to be a very challeng-

ing one because of the hype associated with it - a place in the World Test Championship final at stake, both teams coming back from impressive overseas wins, challenging pitches to officiate on.

“As for the whiteball series, it was between the two topranked teams in the world. Taking all these factors into consideration, I am pleased that we did well as an umpiring team,” he said.

In a normal scenario, Menon won’t get to officiate in back-toback games over two months. So, how did he cope up with high pressure scenarios match after match? “I believe umpiring is all about mental toughness,” he said. “More the pressure better is the focus. If we can give our best performances when we are under pressure that is the true reflection of how strong we are mentally.

“It’s not new for me to officiate in back-toback matches, thanks to the amount of domestic cricket organised in India. On an average, we do eight four-day firstclass games on the trot in Ranji Trophy, with travel in-between from one venue to another.

“Even in the IPL, we do around 14-16 games without a break, so all this experience has really helped me in this series. Like players, um-

pires also have form. I always feel that when in good form, I should do the maximum number of games without any break.”

After two months of non-stop umpiring, Menon got only a couple of days at home before he left for Chennai ahead of the IPL. The bubble life has been tough on the players and Menon said it is equally challenging for the match officials.

“It is very challenging. It is tougher on offdays because we cannot go out of the hotel.

This is where having a good team atmosphere becomes crucial. We are like a family in the bubble.

“We have to look after each other, make sure our colleagues are in the right frame of mind, help them out, meet as often as possible and spend time together. (Press Trust of India)

Nadir XI win Ramnauth Development Youth League All-Star clash

NADIR XI defeated Christiani XI by 27 runs on Saturday in the Devon Ramnauth Development Youth League All-Star 40-over clash at the Reliance ground, in Essequibo.

Azizi Christiani and Abdool Nadir, who led the Queenstown U-19 and Reliance Hustlers in the six-team four-round league, captained the sides.

Unlike the dominance of Queenstown in the league, which saw them playing unbeaten, Saturday’s All-Star clash

Abdool Nadir struck 63 to lead Nadir XI to victory in the clash resulted in Christiani’s first defeat.

Nadir XI batted first and posted 203-9 off their allotted 40 overs.

The skipper led the attack with 63, while Govinda Tulsie scored 31 not out and Kishan Lall made 28.

Lance Roberts finished with 3-12 from five overs, while Christiani and Ramraj Bhopaul supported with two wickets each.

In reply, Christiani XI fell short at 176 all out. Christiani played a captain’s knock of 58, while Carl Gilgeous added 37 and Roberts

Mohammed finished with 2-15 from five overs and Kishan Lall 2-27 from five overs.

According to information from league organizer, Devon Ramnauth, the encounter is another component of development spurring from the league, which will next see an Essequibo Select team being named to play another exhibition clash against hosts, Azizi Christiani finished Pomeroon, next weekend with 58 in a losing cause (once the weather permits).

22.

After the clash, the Bowling for the former national youth winning side, Shaziff

player, Ramnauth, plans on “doing the bridging initiative with the rest of the county of Essequibo,” in an effort to get youngsters more playing time.

Ramnauth, who had stated that the 2020 T20 league (played in the first quarter of 2021) was a huge success, has also announced that the 2021 competition will be played in August.

He said that he is hoping to increase the overs, while decreasing the number of non Essequibians in the teams.

22

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 5, 2021

BCB launches countywide Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh coaching programme THE Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) in its continuing effort to ensure that every potential is fulfilled on the cricket field has launched its fourth annual Dr Tulsi Dyal Singh countywide coaching programme.

The programme, which is expected to benefit over 700 youths, has been sponsored by long-time BCB sponsor and overseas-based Guyanese Dr Tulsi Dyal Singh. The 2021 edition was launched last Tuesday with dozens of players from the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, MS at the Area H Ground.

Level Three coach Winston Smith is the head coach for the programme and he is expected to visit over 22 clubs to work with youths. BCB president Hilbert Foster stated that the programme has been very successful in the past as it

has enabled the board to identify new players for the future.

Over the last three years, over 1 000 junior cricketers have been involved in the coaching programme and have emerged better players for their home clubs and the county.

The first three clubs that benefitted during the first week of the 2021 edition were RHTYSC, Port Mourant and Albion. Female cricketers from Rose Hall Metro were also involved in a special session with Smith.

Special emphasis was placed on batting, bowling, fielding and physical fitness in the intense four-hour sessions at the respective grounds.

Among the other clubs that would benefit from regular sessions are Rose Hall Canje, Tucber Park, Guymine, East Bank Blazers, Rama Krishna

Dr Tulsi Dyal Singh

Foundation, Edinburgh, Kendall Union, Blairmont, Cotton Tree, Bath, Achievers, Mt Sinai, Bush Lot United and No. 73 Young Warriors.

Foster also stated that two mini cricket academies would be held in the West Berbice and Upper Corentyne areas before the countywide Cricket Academy is held in August for the county’s top 70 youth players.

The academy would be held at the Albion ground for seven days and would be conducted by a panel of five coaches headed by Smith. The BCB has invested over $400 000 in cricket gear and coaching equipment to make sure that all of the programme’s objectives are achieved.

The BCB boss also disclosed that his board would continue to invest heavily in educa-

Coach Winston Smith in session with players of the Port Mourant Cricket Club

tional materials like posters and its popular Youth Information Booklet to support the on-field coaching sessions while numerous players would benefit from donation of personal cricket gear as part of a comprehensive development programme for Berbice Youth players.

Over 300 Youth cricketers are scheduled to receive donations of gear, bicycles,

school materials and uniforms for 2021 from the BCB. Additionally, the very pro active board would be organising cricket tournaments at the Under-13, Under-15, Under-17, Under-19, Under-21, Under-23 and female levels to make sure that the players have opportunities to showcase their talents.

BCB 2021 Cricket Season

Sandeep and Son Poultry Farm, Kascon Engineering are latest sponsors SPONSORSHIP for cricket tournaments in the Ancient County of Berbice continues to pour in as the 2021 cricket season streams ahead under very strict Covid-19 guidelines.

The Berbice Cricket Board (BCB), which has set itself a target of 40 tournaments in 2021, has to date hosted eighteen finals over the last two months. The latest sponsors to come on board are Sandeep and Son Poultry Farm and Kascon Engineering Ltd. Sandeep Ramdass, of Sandeep and Son Poultry Farm, would be sponsoring an Under-23 tournament for clubs across the Ancient County while Kascon Engineering Ltd would sponsor a 20/20 tournament for teams in the New Amsterdam/Canje/East

Bank Berbice Area.

BCB president, Hilbert Foster, hailed the Sandeep Ramdass and Son Poultry Farm Under-23 team as another milestone in the history of Berbice Cricket as it would complete the cycle of tournaments for junior cricketers.

The cycle would start at the Under-13 level and includes Under-15, Under- 17, Under- 19, Under- 21 and Under- 23. The BCB president noted that many players leave the game after the Under-19 level as they feel that their career has no future.

The hosting of Under-21 and Under-23 tournaments, Foster stated, is intended to correct that situation and to assist in the development of the players.

Players like Kevin Sinclair, Adrian Sukhwa, Sylus Tyndall,

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Monday April 05, 2021) COMPLIMENTS OF XTRA ENERGY DRINK – STABROEK BAZAAR (Tel-683-9500) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD- 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Courtney Walsh-519 wickets (132 Tests) (2) Mutiah Muralitharan-795 wickets (132 Tests) Today’s Quiz: (1) Which WI wicketkeeper has effected most dismissals in Tests to date?

(2) Which SL wicketkeeper has effected most dismissals in Tests to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Simon Naidu receives sponsorship cheque from Kascon Engineering CEO, Rafeek Kassim

Keith Simpson, Kevin Umroa, Jetendra Outar, Karran Arjpaul, Anthonio February, Kevlon Anderson, Leon Swammy, Garfield Benjamin, Brandon Corlette, Marvon Prashad, Seon Glasgow, Javed Karim, Trevon Stanislaus, Nigel Deodat, Chris Harry, Shamal Angel, Rampertab Ramnauth, Isiah Thorne, Alex Algoo, Gourav Ramesh, Chanderpaul Govindhan, Abdul Ramsammy, Zeynul Ramsammy, Jeremy Sandia, Mahendra Gopilall, Reaz Karim and Leon Cecil are all ex-

Sandeep Ramdass hands over sponsorship to BCB PRO, Simon Naidu

pected to play in the tournament.

Teams expected to participate would include Rose Hall Town Vitality Inc, Albion, Port Mourant, Radha Krishna Foundation, RH Canje, Young Warriors, Tucber Park, Edinburgh, Blairmont, Achievers and Bush Lot United. The second tournament, sponsored by Kascon Engineering Inc, would be for teams in the New Amsterdam/ Canje area and forms part of the BCB grassroot cricket developmental programme.

Foster had committed his administration to hosting a minimum of three cricket tournaments for each of the five sub-areas-- Berbice River, New Amsterdam/Canje, Lower Corentyne/Central Corentyne, West Berbice and Upper Corentyne.

The BCB/Kascon Engineering tournament would be a 20/20 knockout affair with a total of sixteen clubs participating. They would include Kendall Union CC, Kendall’s Union Sports Star,

RH Canje, YWCC, Pathfinders CC, Canje Titans, Goed Bananen Land, Betsy Ground, Mt. Sinai, Tucber Park, Guymine and Sisters.

Foster disclosed that the tournament would start on Sunday 11th of April and is expected to be completed in four weeks. Teams involved in the tournaments are required to observe the BCB Covid-19 Guidelines. No spectator would be allowed in the venue while players would have to wear face masks in the pavilion and practice social distancing.

The BCB boss expressed gratitude to sponsors, Sandeep Ramdass and Rafeek Kassim, for their support. He noted that Berbice Cricket was undergoing a remarkable period and this includes the hosting of numerous tournaments at the different levels.

Both businessmen expressed their delight to be associated with Berbice cricket and indicated that they would likely be long-term sponsors.

Joel Embiid returns from injury in Philadelphia 76ers win JOEL Embiid scored 24 points on his return from injury as his Philadelphia 76ers side beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 122-113.

Embiid missed 10 games with a bone bruise in his left knee and was rusty on his comeback, missing all of his three-point attempts.

The win sent the 76ers back to the top of the Eastern Conference, level with the Brooklyn Nets.

Western Conference leaders the Utah Jazz beat the Orlando Magic 137-91.

Donovan Mitchell scored 22 points, including six three-pointers, as the Jazz won their ninth successive game.

They set an NBA record with 18 three-pointers in the first half, surpassing the Golden State Warriors’ previous best of 17 from 2018.

Luka Doncic finished with 26 points as the Dallas Mavericks went four games unbeaten with a 109-87 win over the Washington Wizards.

The Portland Trail Blazers cruised past the Oklahoma City Thunder 133-85 with

CJ McCollum scoring 20 points in just 26 minutes.

There was a comfortable victory too for the New York Knicks as they eased past the Detroit Pistons 125-81, while the Miami Heat beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 115-101.

The Milwaukee Bucks, without star man Giannis Antetokounmpo, edged a 129-128 win over the Sacramento Kings, and the Indiana Pacers needed overtime to beat the San Antonio Spurs 139-133.

(BBC Sport)

23

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 5, 2021

Fakhar’s 193 in vain as South Africa beat Pakistan by 17 runs (AFP)-Pakistan opening batsman Fakhar Zaman’s astonishing innings of 193 could not prevent South Africa winning the second one-day international by 17 runs in Johannesburg on Sunday.

Pakistan seemed to have no chance when they slumped to 205 for seven in the 38th over in reply to South Africa’s 341 for six at the Wanderers Stadium. But Fakhar’s assault took them to 324 for nine.

With only his team’s bowlers to keep him company, the left-handed Fakhar, who was on 97 when Faheem Ashraf was the seventh man out, went on all-out attack.

In all, he hit 18 fours and ten sixes in a 155-ball innings before being run out in the last over by a direct hit from long-off as

he was trying for a second run.

With wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock seemingly gesturing for Aiden Markram to throw to the bowler’s end, Fakhar slowed down and was surprised when the ball hit the stumps at the batsman’s end when he was a metre or more short, ending his bold counter-attack.”It was one of the best innings I have seen in my life,” said Pakistan captain Babar Azam.

“It was an incredible innings, probably the best I have come across,” said South African captain Temba Bavuma. “Everything he tried came off.”

Fakhar, who made a ODI double century against Zimbabwe in 2018, was named man of the match.

“I tried my level best,” he said. “That’s my game. \”The wicket was really

good, the boundaries were very short and the run rate was going up. I was just hitting the ball.”

Fakhar admitted he was taken by surprise by his dismissal. “I was looking at Haris Rauf because I thought the runout would be at his end. It was my own fault,” he said at the post-match press conference.

- PRODUCTIVE PARTNERSHIPS South Africa’s win levelled the three-match series.

The hosts will be without five of their Indian Premier League-contracted players for the deciding match in Centurion on Wednesday.

De Kock, Bavuma, Rassie van der Dussen and David Miller hit half-centuries after South Africa were sent in.

The South African innings was in dramatic contrast to their effort in the first match at Centurion, when they lost four wickets inside the first 15 overs, with Pakistan going on to win by three wickets off the last ball.

Early moisture in the pitch again made batting tricky but South Africa put together a succession of productive partnerships.

De Kock (80) and Aiden Markram (39) put on 55 for the first wicket before Bavuma (92) and De Kock added 114 for the second wicket.

It set a platform for Van der Dussen to hit a blistering 60 off 37 balls as he and Bavuma put on 101 for the third wicket.

Given the freedom to play his shots from the start, in contrast to his century in Centurion when he had to

On the attack: Fakhar Zaman smashed 193 but Pakistan lost to South Africa. rebuild the innings, Van der Dussen hit six fours and four sixes.

Miller slammed an unbeaten 50 off 27 balls.

Babar, who made a century in the first match, again looked in sublime form as he cruised to 31 off 33 balls after the early loss of Imam-ul-Haq. But he was undone by the pace of Anrich Nortje, mistiming a pull shot off

Nortje’s fourth ball.

Nortje followed up with two more quick wickets as Pakistan slipped to 85 for four.

Shadab Khan, Asif Ali and Faheem Ashraf offered brief support but the match looked to be well beyond Pakistan’s reach when Faheem was seventh out, with 137 runs still needed.

But that was without reckoning on Fakhar.

Golf Association sends Rain saves Transport on day two of First Division clash condolences to Colin Ming’s family … “He will remain in our hearts forever”

THE Guyana Golf Association (GGA) and Nexgen Golf Academy wishes to extend their heartfelt condolences to the Ming family for the loss of Colin Ming, a small man in stature but one who was a giant in many ways.

Colin was a friend and mentor to many and he loved sports with a passion that few understood, had a drive for excitement and performance that crossed motor racing, golf, and business. His very nature made him a success at everything he attempted and his accomplishments were great and many.

One of his overriding passions was the promotion of sports to youths, especially those in need, and it was in that spirit he donated

hundreds of Golf clubs to the Nexgen Golf Academy for the school programme.

Today and in the years to come, thousands of children will benefit from his unselfish generosity.

But he gave not only material things but that which was more important-- his time and knowledge-- starting a Kids Camp at the Academy last year. One of his last conversations, on Thursday, was to realize a dream that Guyana would produce a few world class golfers.

It is said that the ones who matter most are the ones that are taken too soon, and Colin will be sorely missed by many but his contributions to Guyana, in sports, business and generosity, will continue in his memory.

A DOWNPOUR, on Saturday night into Sunday morning, resulted in umpires calling off the GISE, Star Party Rental, and Trophy Stall-sponsored

first-division two-day cricket match between the Transport Sports Club and the home team Police.

The washout result means that Police, owing to their

Colin Ming A man’s success in life is not measured by his possessions but by the lives he touched and changed and for those reasons, Colin Ming was and will always be remembered as a great and successful man!

Gone but never forgotten, our friend will remain in our hearts forever.

Left-arn spinner Anthony Adams finished with 5-26 on Saturday.

dominance on the opening day, finished with first-innings points, but it would have most likely saved the visitors from surrendering full points also.

At the close of play, the Lawmen had a 269-run lead after having restricted TSC to 101 and then belting their way to 370-3 in 44 overs.

Kevon Boodie had led the attack with an aggressive 161, while former West Indies U-19 cricketer, Kevlon Anderson, was on 129 not out and would have looked to score quick runs this morning before an inevitable declaration by the Lawmen.

Police’s opening bowler, Eon Rodrigues, who decimated Transport’s top order with 4-62, and left-arm spinner, Anthony Adams, who finished with 5-26, would have also fancied their chances of getting more wickets yesterday.

Other cricket games in the capital city were also rained out

Windies batsmen starting to deliver, says Head coach Phil Simmons

Rookie Nkrumah Bonner made his maiden Test hundred during the series.

NORTH SOUND, Antigua, (CMC) – Head coach Phil Simmons has praised the maturity of West Indies’ batting in the just concluded Sri Lanka series, pointing to a new hunger from batsmen for large scores and their growing ability to bat for long periods.

The two-match series finished in a nil-all draw after West Indies batted the entire final day of the opening Test to save that contest and Sri Lanka responded in kind by also frustrating the hosts on the last day of the second Test which ended Good Friday.

“The biggest takeaway is that we can bat on a fifth day pitch to save a game, to draw a Test match and it’s something we haven’t done for a while and we needed to make sure we were able to do it,” Sim-

mons said.

“And then the attitude of the team keeps growing, the attitude of guys wanting to make runs and wanting to score hundreds, and it was good to see the captain (Kraigg Brathwaite) getting a hundred after a long barren period.”

He added: “The ability to bat and score the runs we wanted to [also impressed me].

We talked about scoring 400 in a first innings and 350 in a first innings and we did that in one.

“But just the general attitude towards batting on the whole in Test matches, it keeps improving.”

West Indies got a half-century from all-rounder Rahkeem Cornwall in the first innings of the opening Test and a maiden Test

Australia’s women set new world record in win over New Zealand See story on page 20

hundred from Nkrumah Bonner in the second innings, with rookie Kyle Mayers chipping in with a half-century.

Set an improbable 375 to win, West Indies resumed the final day on 34 for one and easily saw out the three sessions with an accomplished batting effort.

Brathwaite was the highlight of the second Test, hitting 126 in the first innings to notch his ninth hundred and following up with 85 in the second innings.

There was also a first innings fifty for Cornwall while Mayers and former captain Jason Holder also scored half-centuries in the second innings as West Indies declared on 280 for four.

Simmons said there was now a common theme among the batting group where they

recognised it was important to spend time at the crease in order to gather runs.

“I think the important thing now is that everybody’s looking to occupy the crease. People are looking to bat for long periods,” Simmons pointed out.

“And our depth goes deeper because Alzarri Joseph and Rahkeem Cornwall have shown within the last three series that they can each bat and they can provide that 50-100 run partnership later down to take us to the 350s and 400s.

“So it was great to see Rahkeem’s batting coming to the fore and in all, the batting has stood up in the last four Test matches and this is a great thing because before that, the bowling was carrying us.”

Australia win the first ODI against New Zealand, their 22nd consecutive victory breaking the world record of Ponting’s 2003 Australian side

French Open postponement a possibility - sports minister PARIS (Reuters) - French Sports Minister Roxana Maracineanu said it was possible the French Open could be postoned for the second year amid the COVID-19 crisis.

France entered a third nationwide lockdown on Saturday to contain the coronavirus spread, although professional sports have largely been spared.

An exception is cycling’s Paris-Roubaix one-day race, which has been postponed from its original April 11 slot.

The French Open, which last year was postponed by four months and took place in front of limited crowds, is due to start this year on May 23.

“We are in discussion with them (the French Tennis Federation,

which organises the event) to see if we should change the date to coincide with a possible resumption of all sports and major events,” Maracineanu told France Info radio late on Saturday.

“Today, although high-level sport has been preserved, we try to limit the risks of clusters, of spreading the virus

within professional sports.”

President Emmanuel Macron said on Wednesday that he was expecting to re-open the country in mid-May. The director-general of the French Tennis Federation, Gilles Moreton, said earlier this week that he could not imagine the Grand Slam tournament being cancelled.

Fakhar’s 193 in vain as South Africa beat Pakistan by 17 runs See story on page 23 Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

MONDAY, APRIL 5, 2021