Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 05-11-2021

FRIDAY 5th November, 2021

' No.106536

CGX accumulates US$59M for Guyana operations 03 PAGE

The light of Diwali ‘shines on’ amid pandemic

SEE centre Pages

Eccles Industrial Site Private investor PM: Region must make to be regularised 08 developing 700 02 disaster risk-reduction 05 –– management committee to be policies a national priority resuscitated, says Minister Walrond house lots at Mahaica PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 5, 2021

Private investor developing 700 house lots at Mahaica -project summary shows housing development spans 177 acres of land

A Google Map image depicting the area being developed to accommodate the Gorchum Housing Scheme Development project

A SWATHE of land along the Mahaica New Road, in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica), which was once covered in thick vegetation, is being transformed into a massive housing development, catering for 700 house lots.

The Gorchum Housing Scheme Development project is being established at Gorchum/Wilhelmina, Mahaica Village.

The area for the massive housing development stretches along the new East Coast Public Road, which extends from the new Mahaica Bridge to the old road intersection that leads to the Mahaica Market.

The 177 acres of land, which was cleared from scratch for the project, was formerly a Coconut Estate.

The area is slated to be transformed into a residential, commercial and recreational-zoned community.

The contractors, A&S General Contractors, estimates that approximately 700 house lots will be available within

the community, which will have modern amenities.

According to the project summary, the proposed housing development caters for ‘green’ spaces, gated and opened communities, residential areas, and commercial zones. An all-weather access road network will connect the community, and adequate drainage systems are being implemented.

So far, approximately 70 per cent of the infrastructural works have been completed, with an internal road network already prepared and awaiting surface material, while the concrete culverts for the drainage system have all been completed.

Additionally, potable water mains have been installed at the development site, and the developers have obtained a permit for the establishment of a groundwater well from the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI).

Several house lots have already been allocated to persons at the development site, which will enable home

ownership in a beautiful countryside setting. It is anticipated that the development will propel economic and social activities in the rural locality.

The Mahaica area is known for its agricultural activity. Large acres of rice lands, coconut estates, cattle, and livestock can be spotted while traversing the East Coast Demerara and West Coast Berbice Public Roads, which are the two major roadways to be found between the Mahaica Bridge and Rosignol.

Residents within the region enjoy simple country life, with their day-to-day activities ranging from farming and fishing, to production, as many agro-processing facilities are found within the region as well.

With the Mahaica River running through the heart of the region, logging and timber production is also prevalent.

Added to the housing development, which would supplement the existing activities, is a US$1.4 billion, 1,000+acre real estate project

by Construction and Investment Management Group (CIMGRO), the Maraiko Bay Golf & Country Club, is set for development. The ocean-front megaproject is intended to include two Championship PGA-standard golf courses.

Last year, CIMGRO disclosed that a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) had already been signed with the Petroleum Club, headed

by John Moore, Chairman of Agraria Inc., for a 75-unit luxury housing complex, including a clubhouse, restaurant and leisure facilities.

In addition, Phase I of the Maraiko Bay project will encompass 150 condos, 200 luxury homes and 50 executive homes, a commercial centre and other amenities, all set for completion within 14 months.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 5, 2021

CGX accumulates US$59M for Guyana operations CANADIAN oil giant, CGX Energy Incorporated, has managed to accumulate US$59 million to further develop and expand its operations both offshore and onshore Guyana.

The company, in a press statement, said that it offered to holders of its outstanding shares an aggregate of 45,151,338 common shares, with each requiring a payment of CAN$1.63.

“Following the closing of the offering, CGX has 334,459,000 common shares issued and outstanding,” the company said.

By the time the rights-offering exercise wrapped up on October 28, the company had raised approximately CAN$73,600,000 in gross proceeds, or the equivalent of US$59,600,000.

“Frontera Energy Corporation, an insider and the corporation’s largest shareholder, acquired an aggregate of 45,083,314 common shares pursuant to the exercise of its rights and its standby commitment under the offering,” CGX said.

The company, in its report, said that it intends to use the funds raised for the exploration and development of the Corentyne and Demerara Blocks offshore Guyana, and the Berbice Blocks onshore Guyana, and for the development of the Berbice Deep-Water Port in Guyana.

As it is, CGX and Frontera have commenced drilling for oil at the Kawa-1 well, which was spudded by Maersk Drilling Holdings’ Maersk Discoverer, a sixth-generation, semi-submersible which, prior to arriving

The Maersk Discoverer commenced drilling at the Kawa-1 well in August 2021

in Guyana’s waters, was working in Trinidad for another operator.

The Kawa-1 well is located in the north-east quadrant of the Corentyne Block, approximately 200km offshore Georgetown.

The water-depth is approximately 355 meters (1,174 ft.), and the expected total depth of the Kawa-1 well is 6,575 meters (21,700 ft.).

It was reported recently that the estimated cost of the Kawa-1 project is close to US$85 million. The well is expected to reach total depth in the first half of December 2021.

According to CGX, with multiple opportunities based on internal

geological studies, the Kawa-1 well targets light oil.

Further, the “stacked” targets in Kawa-1 are considered similar to the discoveries immediately adjacent to the Corentyne Block in Block 58 in Suriname. The Kawa1 well is expected to de-risk multiple other prospects on the block, which also have “stacked reservoirs.”

Considering the potential of the Corentyne Block, CGX and Frontera said that they will be drilling a second well offshore Guyana under conditions and terms similar to that of Kawa1.

Back in April, it was reported that Frontera

E n e rg y C o r p o r a t i o n had injected a US$19 million (approximately G$4.1B) loan into CGX to continue financing its share costs related to the Corentyne, Demerara and Berbice Blocks, as well as the Berbice DeepWater Port (BDWP) and other budgeted costs, as agreed to by Frontera.

Already, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Grand Canal Industrial Estates Inc. (GCIE), CGX is engaged in civil works related to the construction of the BDWP on 30 acres of land on the eastern bank of the Berbice River, adjacent to Crab Island.

The project entails the construction of an access road and connect-

ing bridge, the relocation of utilities, and major construction of the site along the Berbice River, as well as the construction of a wharf platform measuring 220 metres in length, and 30 metres in width, with its accompanying 50-metre access trestle.

The capital cost of the project, which is set to be completed by 2023, is currently estimated at US$70 million, with an additional plan to construct heavy-lift and fabrication facilities being contemplated.

The company first announced its plans for the project in 2010, preempting the developments that are expected locally.

The project is also

expected to serve the movement of cargo for the agriculture industry.

With approximately 30– 50 per cent of Guyana’s rice being produced in Regions Five (MahaicaBerbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), the BDWP, CGX reasoned, will provide important support to the industry, and service its expected growth.

Specific to cargo handling operations of the port, the Maritime & Transport Business Solutions (MTBS) of Rotterdam, in the Netherlands, conducted a detailed assessment report which predicted revenue generation to reach approximately US$28 million by 2025, and approximately US$37 million by 2030.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 5, 2021

Climate change extremes spur U.N. plan to fund weather forecasting AS climate change triggers deadly heatwaves, droughts and floods, three U.N. agencies on Wednesday rolled out funding plans to improve weather forecasting in vulnerable countries.

The initiative, announced at the U.N. climate summit in Glasgow, aims to plug gaps in weather monitoring and data collection so developing countries can better prepare for possible climate-fuelled disasters.

Over the next decade, organisers at the U.N.’s World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) plan to boost weather monitoring in 75 small-island nations and least-developed countries that have done little to cause the climate crisis, but face the

biggest and costliest impacts.

“We have to invest in weather and climate services,” WMO Secretary-General Petteri Taalas told conference attendees.

“Without observations, we are not able to provide good services.”

“In modelling, we say that if you put junk in your forecasting models, you are getting junk out. Unfortunately, that’s the situation in several developing countries, and also several island-state countries,” he said.

Improving rain forecasts, for instance, can help farmers manage their fields, communities manage water resources, or governments plan for food imports when yields look likely to falter. They can

Friday, 5 November 03:30hrs - 05:00hrs

also allow people to prepare for possible flooding.

For the Red Cross in Burkina Faso, such forecasts, when they exist, are crucial to the aid organisation’s budget and procurement planning, Red Cross climate scientist Kiswendsida Guigma said.

But in many places, there is a “huge gap” in accuracy and detail, Guigma said.

“We don’t have very dense networks of instruments collecting data, and (there is) a lack of human and technical capacity.”

The new initiative, called the Systematic Observations Finance Facility, is led by the WMO, the U.N. Development Programme and the U.N. Environment Programme, and falls under global plans to provide $100 billion a year in climate financing to poorer nations.

Failure by rich nations to meet this 2020 goal has earned wide rebuke in Glasgow. On Tuesday, U.S. climate envoy, John Kerry said the world might meet that goal by 2022.

Improving weather data can also help with longer-term predictability around climate change, said Lars Peter Riishojgaard, director of the WMO’s Earth System Branch.

“If you’re a rural economy with subsistence farming, you need to know: Can people have their livelihoods where they are right now, or do they need to pick different crops?”

Riishojgaard said. “If you can’t predict it, you can’t adapt to it.”

DISAPPEARING DATA In recent years, weather data for Africa has de-

clined, as readings from weather balloons equipped with observation equipment, known as radiosondes, decreased by about half between 2015 and 2020.

Radiosonde data, which, unlike satellite data, is collected at various atmospheric altitudes, is crucial for both weather predictions and climate modelling. Lack of investment, security conflicts and other problems have prevented African countries from floating new balloons, said Columbia University climate scientist Tufa Dinku.

“There is almost no data outside the roads, outside the towns and cities,” he said.

“And if you think about it, agriculture doesn’t happen in towns or cities.”

That has left African farmers and herders struggling to plan ahead, even as the rates of temperature increase in the continent’s south have been among the world’s fastest.

Madagascar, off Africa’s southeast coast, has this year suffered from a crippling

famine that scientists say is caused by climate-fuelled drought.

More than a million people face extreme hunger in the island nation that has produced less than 0.01% of the carbon-dioxide emissions causing global warming, according to the Global Carbon Project.

Globally, weather-related natural disasters have increased five-fold over 50 years, the WMO said.

More than 91% of associated deaths have occurred in developing countries.

Prime Minister of Fiji Frank Bainimarama told attendees at the initiative’s rollout that climate-driven superstorms, rising seas, and changing weather patterns are the “new norm” in the Pacific. He added that 13 cyclones have struck the island nation since 2016.

“Disaster readiness and disaster resilience are two sides of the same coin,” Bainimarama said.

“They both depend on robust weather and climate data.” (Reuters)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 5, 2021

Region must make disaster risk reduction policies national priority –– Prime Minister Phillips says

PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, who is performing the functions of President, said that governments within the Caribbean must place disaster risk-reduction policies as national priorities and mainstream disaster risk management into all aspects of their countries’ developmental efforts.

He made this appeal during his remarks, on Thursday, at the Seventh Regional Platform Meeting for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) in the Americas and the Caribbean.

“Over just a few months, our Region has been faced with an earth-

quake which has devastated our brothers and sisters in Haiti, volcanic eruption which has created complexed emergency response challenges for St Vincent and the Grenadines and surrounding islands, and persistent floods, which have had severe impact on our productive sector in Guyana, Suriname and other parts of South, Central America and the Caribbean… our assignment now is to get ahead of the curve,” Prime Minister Phillips said.

The acting Head of State highlighted the government’s drive to make the necessary changes.

Phillips said: “A few days ago Guyana

launched our Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030. A strategy that is intended to map Guyana’s new growth trajectory, guiding the management of our rich natural resources in line with sustainable development goals.

“This strategy is supported by our Comprehensive Disaster Management Country Work Programme 2021-2025, an important tool to guide our country’s continued and increasing investments in DRR. Together these frameworks form the undercurrent of our development thrust.”

He added that as the country with the fastest-growing economy

within the Region, Guyana is well aware that securing its economic future means investing in sustainable climate action.

“Guyana has ongoing major investments to strengthen sea defence infrastructure in vulnerable coastal communities.

“There’s also extensive enhancement of road networks to support sustainable development with a view of enhanced evacuation planning. Rehabilitation of drainage and irrigation systems to reduce flood risk is also ongoing,” Prime Minister Phillips said.

The Seventh Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction in the

Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips Americas and the Caribbean was aimed at raising awareness about the increasing challenges faced by Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) with regard to enhanced natural disasters stemming from the

effects of climate change.

The four-day event, which concluded on Thursday, was themed “Building Resilient Economies in the Americas and the Caribbean.” (Office of the Prime Minister)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 5, 2021

Making a Difference

FACED with increasing levels of global carbon emissions, President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, has committed Guyana to a menu of measures aimed at conserving, protecting and sustainably managing the country’s forests, biodiversity and freshwater supplies while, at the same time, reducing carbon emissions by at least 70 per cent by 2030.

This commitment compares favourably with many nations, especially the industrialised countries, which over the decades have fuelled their development mainly by way of fossil fuel and have consequently contributed to high levels of carbon emissions.

That commitment was made at the 26th Conference of Parties (COP26) in Glasgow, Scotland, attended by over one hundred world leaders and climate change scientists and experts. According to President Ali, the reduction in carbon emissions in Guyana will be achieved through a cleaner energy mix which includes solar, wind, hydropower and natural gas.

Guyana is already doing its part in addressing climate change and will continue to do so by way of preserving its pristine forests almost the size of England and Scotland combined and which stores 20 gigatons of carbon. It is now for the rich industrialised countries to honour commitments made to compensate countries such as Guyana for preserving their forests. At the 2009 Conference on Copenhagen, it was agreed that $US100 billion per year will be made available by 2020 but very little was actually delivered. Further, there is too much of bureaucracy in accessing agreed financing which must be corrected.

On this note, President Ali expressed the view that dishonoured pledges are ‘a recipe for disaster’.

Guyana must be given credit for agreeing to not only end but to also reverse deforestation by 2030 which is a mere nine years from today. This is indeed a bold initiative but it is done in the best interest of humanity as a whole. This was well articulated by President Ali in his address to the COP26

when he said that ‘climate change affects us all, rich and poor, developed and developing states, but its effects are more severe on the poorest and most vulnerable’.

The industrialised powers can and must do more in the fight against climate change.

They have both a moral and financial obligation to make resources available to curb carbon emission levels, having contributed in a disproportionate way in terms of global warming by way of high pollution levels in order to grow their economies to what it is today. And there is still no perceptible or measurable drop in carbon emission levels despite several commitments made over the past decades.

As a small country, Guyana has been very proactive in terms of climate mitigation measures as outlined in its Low Carbon Development Strategy, which is now being revised to take into account new and changing realities, especially in light of our new status as an emerging oil and gas economy.

It is however, the management of our huge forests and the eco-systems that will be a

defining characteristic in our contribution to climate change, which, along with other climate mitigating measures such as alternative energy sources, can make a difference.

The fact is that deforestation is a significant contributor to annual global emissions and it is therefore imperative that rules be finalised for carbon markets and REDD+ in order to properly value tropical forests and climate services. There is a growing market for carbon credits and Guyana is well positioned to benefit substantially from market share.

The COP26 has again provided the world with new opportunities to address climate change which must go beyond pledges and declarations by the major powers. This is the time for action, and as pointed out by President Ali, we are at a historic moment in our civilisation.

History, he said, must not judge us as having only counted our losses; it must instead herald our efforts to confront one of our planet’s greatest threats, namely that of climate change.

Guyanese-style Diwali in New York Dear Editor, THE Hindu Guyanese community in greater New York has been basking in the festivities of Diwali, hosting celebrations at different locations.

Diwali, the Indian festival of lights, is the most popular festival among Hindus globally – food, fun, fireworks, shopping, etc.

Diwali is an invitation to Goddess Lakshmi, who represents wealth and prosperity, into their homes. It was celebrated on Thursday, November 4 with prayer invocations and lighting of deyas. Universally, the entire globe celebrated Diwali on the same date. It was the same traditions and rituals in America among Guyanese as in Guyana. As in Guyana, Diwali is celebrated with much fanfare and gaiety in America among Hindus. Such is the euphoria that even non-Hindus participate in fun and celebrations There are five days of Diwali – two before and two after but the big day was the third night or Thursday evening when every Hindu lit deyas and invite family, friends, neighbours, non-Hindus in particular, to feast on an assortment of dishes.

Because of COVID-19, the celebrations worldwide have been subdued this year and bypassed altogether last year with public revelry. But families still lit deyas in front of their homes and at the entrance to the door as well

as at the gates and around the yard. Colourful lights also flickered around the house and on trees. Deyas were lit on the base of Jhandi flags fluttering in the wind.

In the past politicians would host Diwali get together and concerts in their office and at City Hall or Gracie Mansion (home of Mayor) and at the Governor’s office, Congress, White House, etc. Most are skipped this year or done virtually or with small number of invitees.

Preparation for Diwali among the large Indo-Caribbean community of over three quarter million (with over half being Hindus) in America was in full swing since two weeks ago. South Asian and Indo-Caribbean stores were crowded with shoppers for clothing and food items. There is great demand for ghee, coconut oil, wick, deyas, flickering lights, and vegetables during this festival that was also preceded by the fasting period of Navratri when Hindus also engaged in fasting. There is great demand for katahar for Navratri and Diwali and it normally fetches a high price; it is a good business for Guyanese to export “cleaned katahar” and cut up mangoes for curry and ‘gurumbha’. Both go for a minimum US$5 per pound.

This is the time in the year when Hindus and their non-Hindu friends and neighbors gear up to put their best foot forward. Not surprisingly, there was last minute shopping for this high-profile most popular Indian fes-

tival. Some shoppers had to wait an hour at cash put at some of the stores (that carry dry goods as well as fruits and vegetables, in fact virtually all items).

As in Guyana, Diwali is celebrated in a traditional grand way in New York City and environs among Guyanese who normally team up with Indo-Caribbean Hindus from Trinidad, Suriname, Jamaica, and elsewhere – with a motorcade and open-air cultural variety concert on the Saturday before the festival, concert at mandirs the weekend before, lit deyas and electronic lighting outside of homes, and prayers at mandirs on the night itself. There are over 50 Guyanese or Indo-Caribbean mandirs in the New York area. Sundar Gopal Mandir in the heart of Richmond Hill has been hosting Diwali nightly discourse since Monday evening and will conclude on Saturday evening. Liberty Ave, the fulcrum of Guyanese and other Indo-Caribbean shopping, was teeming with shoppers.

Over the last week, Hindus scurried through stores to pick the best in wears and items needed for the Diwali and Navratri festivities. There was hustle and bustle everywhere and one could literally smell the excitement in the air.

At the open air concert last Saturday on Liberty Ave and 120th Street, (motorcade was cancelled), the area was filled with very colorful decorations and lighting, stunning attires and

fashion cues. It was a special, coveted concert that attracts a huge throng of celebrants. The décor was magnificent. People got to mingle and meet so many prominent community leaders and ‘who is who’ among Guyanese and other West Indians. There was an assortment of lip-smacking declicacies accustomed with in Guyana plus many more (barfi, ras malai, ras gulai, gulab jamun, etc.) that have been acculturated from the Panjabis and other South Asian American communities who share residency in Richmond Hill.

Celebrants meticulously plan and organise for the celebration. Many take a day off from work. While school was in session, as Diwali is not a city holiday, students and staff are excused from attendance. Parking rules were also suspended to accommodate the celebrants. A bill was introduced in the NY legislature to make Diwali a school holiday.

Unlike in Guyana, in America, Diwali is an annual tradition where people congregate at the mandirs for an evening of entertainment -- singing, classical dancing, and revelry (dinner).

After puja at home with family members, people flocked to the mandir for special service, bhajans, prasad, and a dinner of many dainty dishes (including dhal puri and baiganee) and desserts.

Yours sincerely, Dr. Vishnu Bisram

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 5, 2021

The trio and their alternative facts

Dear Editor,

I AM minded of the story of the three blind mice as I witness the struggles of GHK Lall, Lennox Shuman, and Amanza Walton-Desir to become or remain relevant to the Guyanese public.

Having failed to excite as an unsolicited arbiter of the PNC leadership race, GHK moved on to ‘throwing his imaginary hat into the ring’ for the position of GECOM’s CEO and penning a missive filled with his imaginary qualities. Unfortunately for GHK, the job is a real one and requires more than an overactive imagination; a harsh reality-check for the ‘wall street whizz’ who failed to even send an application for the ‘wuk’.

Next up was Lennox Schuman as he made a call for more business opportunities for Indigenous People; commendable but not matched by any official requests unless one counts the various opportunities Schuman avails for himself, sandpit?

Airline? Campaign-funding? Anyone?

Schuman has a year left in Parliament according to the ‘small parties agreement’ but I would suggest he not fret as ANUG

may be unable to fill their term given their membership seems to be exclusively dual-citizens with the excommunication of Jonathan Yearwood.

Then came the bizarre accusation that former President Jagdeo was engaged in ‘Revisionism’ from Amanza Walton-Desir. Documents detailing Guyana’s history are being declassified (50-year rule) and the 365. Memorandum for the 303 Committee which is unambiguous “Prime Minister Forbes Burnham of Guyana, who has previously received covert assistance from CIA, requested that the Agency provide $10,000 a month for two years to support his efforts to build his party …If present population and voting trends continue, Burnham, would lose to Jagan in an honest election.” (https://history.state.gov/ historicaldocuments/frus1969-76ve10/ d365)is pellucid; even the intellectually lazy can easily discern that Burnham was a stooge of the CIA. Walton Desir is free to attempt her revisionism and I look forward to her efforts to rewrap the attempt to rig the 2018-2020 General Elections and possibly to paint ‘Danger’ Granger into a man of action.

We need smart investment, not no investment in the oil and gas sector Dear Editor, THE most conservative estimate is that the use of fossil fuel will continue well into the next 50 years.

It means therefore, refined products from crude petroleum such as gasoline, ultra low sulphur diesel, aviation jet fuel, bitumen and raw Sulphur, etc., will potentially still be a lucrative market for the next five decades and possibly more.

What is the present situation with regards to refining capacity in the Caribbean?

With the exception of the Staatstolie Refinery in Suriname that was expanded and modernised in 1995 to ISO 9001 standards with nearly zero carbon emissions, all the remaining refineries in the Caribbean were built during the first or second world wars.

Most are closed due to the cost for them to lower their carbon emission.

Trinidad and Aruba refineries are now used as storage terminals. Isla Refinery built

by Shell in Curacao in 1917 is facing serious environmental issues with high levels of carbon pollution. The Limetree Refinery in St Croix has again filed for bankruptcy and is facing lawsuits for polluting the drinking water as well causing skin and lung disease to the inhabitants of the island due to its poor emission control.

Much cannot be said of the refineries in Venezuela and Cuba given the lack of data but making a logical deduction from the state of their respective economies, you can safely conclude they would not be in any state-ofthe-art condition.

To sum things up, in terms of fuel supply and security in the Caribbean Region, our

supply chain is pitifully inadequate with high carbon emissions. We depend mostly from the Gulf for the supply of refined petro products and all the refineries that are in the panhandle states around the Gulf are high carbon emitters due to their age. With the US ratcheting up stricter emission controls under the present administration, a lot of these refineries will go under. This will, in the near future, create a shortage of refining capacity in the Americas as a whole.

The smart thing to do therefore is to invest in a joint venture with Suriname to build and operate a 200,000 barrels refinery with close to zero carbon emissions in proximity to the proposed deep water harbour.

Both Guyana and Suriname are producing a similar type of light sweet crude which will result in less harmful carbon emissions during refining and with the most technologically-modern, environmentally friendly treatment plants now available, the emitted gases will almost be harmless.

Suriname has personnel who have gained a lot of expertise in refinery construction and operation which they can bring to the partnership.

A 200,000 barrels refinery would normally take four to five years to be built which will place us in an ideal position as a very low carbon emitter in the global drive to manage climate change.

Viewed from all angles, a joint venture 200,000 barrels refinery with Suriname will be the smart thing to do.

Yours sincerely, Reggie Bhagwandin

Walton-Desir writes of “wanton destruction of mangroves” concerning the construction of a river port facility in Versailles WBD; I fail to understand how the removal of mangroves and replacement with a port affects any community negatively. Mangroves are a useful natural sea defense but certainly not near as effective as a port; in addition, the port will provide jobs for hundreds and earn valuable foreign currency for Guyana. There is nothing ‘wanton’ about the replacement of the mangroves with man-made sea defences; it is called progress!

The other element of Amanza Walton-Desir’s letter are a public manifestation of ‘APNU maths’, the thoroughly debunked claim of 400 extra-judicial killings has become “Tens of hundreds” then came the shout for relevance. She claimed that the Ali administration has fired “thousands of public servants”; this is

disingenuous and I would ask that she produce a list of names for public verification.

My information suggests that one member of the established civil service was fired and less than a hundred contracted political appointees either resigned or were terminated to date. The only factual statement I found in Amanza Walton-Desir’s letter was her designation under her signature “APNU+AFC Opposition”. It looks like it will be applicable for some time to come.

Three blind mice. Three blind mice.

See how they run. See how they run.

They all ran after the farmer’s wife, Who cut off their tails with a carving knife, Did you ever see such a sight in your life, As three blind mice?

Yours sincerely Robin Singh

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 5, 2021

Eccles Industrial Site to be regularised -management committee to be resuscitated, says Minister Walrond

(From right) Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond and Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Anand Persaud, during a walkabout at the Eccles Industrial Estate

By Jarred Liddell THE Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, on Wednesday, announced its plans to regularise the operations of the Eccles Industrial Site, in a bid to significantly improve the standard and appearance of the commercial and

manufacturing hub.

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, reiterated the government’s commitment to ensure that all lease holders comply with the agreements stipulated by the ministry, so that the operations of the site are smooth.

The Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce gained control of the Eccles Industrial Site in 2017 after it was handed

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, and Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Anand Persaud, assess the operations of the industrial site (Elvin Croker Photo) over to the government by National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL).

The Official Gazette said that pursuant to the deed and subject to the representations, covenants, terms and conditions specified therein, the plots numbering 1-84 of Block `DD’ being a portion of Plantation Eccles, is transferred by the donor, NICIL, to the Government of Guyana. The order which made the transfer legal was signed by the then Minister of Finance on July 17, 2017 According to the ownership agreement, the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce has control over all 54 acres of land within the estate.

The agreement between the government and the lease holders of the lands at the estate, gives authorities the duty to ensure responsible use of the lands and spaces.

Minister Walrond said that one of the issues uncovered during her visit to the site, on Wednesday, was the fact that many lease holders were utilising spaces to conduct business other than what was signed on to when they leased the land; this, she said, was without application for or approval to change business operations.

The minister further related that her team would have uncovered derelict vehicles and pieces of machinery that have been placed at the “roadsides” and have

been left there for some time.

She said that the government will be writing to lease owners to address the situation.

“The idea is to ensure that the estates are used for the correct purpose. There has been a lot of neglect and we came here to do a site visit to see firsthand what it is the issue that we have to address.

“What we have encountered is the issue of encumbered roadways, heavy vehicles on the roadways, people not using the lands for the purpose for which they had committed in their lease and so all of those issues will be addressed and regularised,” Minister Walrond said.

Further, in keeping with the government’s commitment to regularise the operations at the industrial site, Minister Walrond said that systems are being put in place to resuscitate the Eccles Industrial Site Management committee, which consists of representatives of the industrial site, the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, and the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development.

She said that meetings will be held soon to elect persons who will sit on the committee and ensure that the regulations and terms of references of the lease agreement are followed.

Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development,

Anand Persaud, further underscored the government’s commitment to improve the performance at the industrial site.

He said that the government intends to have the necessary services in place at the site to better the look and atmosphere at the estate.

Minister Persaud said the government’s plans is to engage the Guyana Fire Service to ensure that all necessary fire safety equipment are in place and accessible.

He also said that the government will be enlisting the Ministry of Labor to ensure that all Occupational Health and Safety guidelines are followed to protect not just the company’s operations, but also the lives of all Guyanese employed at the industrial site.

“Basically, my input with the business owners, is that we want to ensure that the Occupational Health and Safety guidelines are adhered to. We also will be ensuring that the fire hydrants are working and we want to uplift the aesthetic of the industrial site, so the pan is to introduce adequate lighting and so.

“But the issues we found that can be dealt with by the lease holders, we will follow up by way of letter and very soon we will engage the committee in the industrial estate and the business owners at a different level,” Minister Persaud said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 5, 2021

World food prices reach new peak since July 2011 –– global cereal production poised to hit all-time high; stocks set to decline

(FAO) THE world food price barometer surged to a new peak, reaching its highest level since July 2011, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) reported Thursday.

The FAO Food Price Index, which tracks monthly changes in the international prices of a basket of food commodities, averaged 133.2 points in October, up 3 per cent from September, rising for a third consecutive month.

The FAO Cereal Price Index in October increased by 3.2 per cent from the previous month, with world wheat prices rising by five per cent amid tightening global availabilities due to reduced harvests in major exporters, including Canada, the Russian Federation and the United States of America. International prices of all other major cereals also increased month-on-month.

The FAO Vegetable Oil Price Index went up 9.6 per cent in October, hitting an

all-time high. The increase was driven by firmer price quotations for palm, soy, sunflower and rapeseed oils.

Palm oil prices rose for a fourth consecutive month in October, largely underpinned by persisting concerns over subdued output in Malaysia due to ongoing migrant labour shortages.

The FAO Dairy Price Index rose by 2.6 points from September, influenced by generally firmer global import demand for butter, skim milk powder and whole milk powder amid buyers’ efforts to secure supplies to build stocks. In contrast, cheese prices remained largely stable, as supplies from major producing countries were adequate to meet global import demand.

The FAO Meat Price Index slipped 0.7 per cent from its revised value in September, marking the third monthly decline.

International quotations for pig and bovine meats fell amid reduced purchases from China of the former and a

sharp decline in quotations for supplies from Brazil of the latter. In contrast, poultry and ovine meat prices

first decline after six consecutive monthly increases.

The decline was mainly the result of limited global

An employee shows wheat grains on a conveyor belt during its loading for storage in tanks at the Chernihiv granary, Ukraine (FAO photo) rose, boosted by high global demand and low production expansion prospects.

The FAO Sugar Price Index dropped by 1.8 per cent from September, marking the

import demand and prospects of large exportable supplies from India and Thailand, as well as a weakening of the Brazilian Real against the US dollar.

Despite an expected record world cereal production in 2021, global cereal inventories are seen heading for a contraction in 2021/22, according to new forecasts in FAO’s Cereal Supply and Demand Brief, also released Thursday.

The forecast for world cereal output in 2021 is now pegged at 2 793 million tonnes, down by 6.7 million tonnes since the previous report in October, largely due to cuts to the estimates of wheat production in the Islamic Republic of Iran, Turkey and the United States of America.

In contrast, global coarse grains output has been revised upwards. An upward revision to maize production was driven by better-than-previously expected yields in Brazil and India and improved prospects in several West African countries. Compared to last year, global cereal production is anticipated to increase and reach a new record level.

Forecast at 2 812 million

tonnes, world total cereal utilisation in 2021/22 is heading for a 1.7 per cent gain from the 2020/21 estimated level, led by an anticipated increase in global food consumption of wheat, rising in tandem with world population, while foreseen higher feed and industrial uses of maize should also contribute to the expected annual increase.

World cereal stocks by the close of seasons in 2022 are forecast to fall 0.8 per cent below their opening levels, to 819 million tonnes.

Consequently, the world cereals stocks-to-use ratio is forecast to decline slightly, from 29.4 per cent in 2020/21 to 28.5 per cent in 2021/22 but still indicating an overall comfortable level.

Following an upward revision this month on stronger-than-earlier-anticipated global trade in wheat and rice, world trade in cereals is now forecast to expand and reach a new record in 2021/22 at 478 million tonnes, up 0.3 per cent from the 2020/21 level.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 5, 2021

Arakaka, Matthew’s Ridge, Baramita farmers get $10M in flood relief

AGRICULTURE Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, on Wednesday, directed the distribution exercise for the government’s ongoing flood-relief distribution exercise in several villages in Region One (Barima Waini). At the end of the exercise, farmers from the three villages benefitted from over $10 million worth of flood relief, with each farmer receiving $100,000 to assist with resuscitating their cultivation.

Farmers from Arakaka, Matthew’s Ridge, and Baramita turned up in their numbers to the various distribution sites, anxious to receive the relief grant that was promised to them by His Excellency, President Dr.

Mohamed Irfaan Ali, after the country had experienced extensive flooding brought on by the extended May-June rainy period earlier this year.

During Wednesday’s distribution exercise, Minister Mustapha told farmers and residents that the government remains committed to ensuring those who were affected by flooding and as a result suffered losses, received assistance to return to the land as soon as possible.

“Today, we are here to fulfil a commitment that was made by the President. When this government makes a commitment, we take it very seriously and try as much as possible to deliver on those commitments. All the 10 Administrative Regions of

our country were affected by flooding. Thousands of farmers across the country lost their livelihoods. We made a commitment to assist farmers with some form of assistance so that they can have the necessary resources to help them to return to the land as soon as possible. The government has invested $7.8 billion in this programme because we understand the importance of investing in the lives of the citizens of this country.

As a government, we will also ensure that all Guyanese benefit from what the government has to offer so you can rest assured that, under this government, your future is secure,” Minister Mustapha said.

Minister Mustapha also

A farmer from Arakaka Village receives the grant from Minister Mustapha in the presence of other Regional and Ministry of Agriculture officials (DPI Photo) told farmers that the ministry will also provide farmers with additional support in the form of seeds, fertilisers, Acoushi Ant bait, and other planting materials as part of the relief efforts.

Farmers who were present expressed thanks to the government for the assistance and said that they will use the monies to purchase materials to revive their farms.

Richard Williams, a farmer from Arakaka, while recounting his experiences during the flood, said that the distribution exercise shows that the government has not

forgotten the people of Region One. “I am a cash crop farmer.

That is how I make my living. This flood mash up everything. I lost sweet potatoes, cassava, pumpkin, eddoes, banana, and a lot of other things. Today, the government has extended this help to us and I want to thank them because they haven’t forgotten us. They haven’t forgotten the people in Region One and I want to really thank the President and the minister for this help,” the farmer said.

Although the region is

primarily involved in logging and mining, the government, since taking office last August, has signalled its commitment to developing the region’s agriculture sector.

In addition to a packaging facility that is currently being constructed in Mabaruma to assist farmers with adding value to their produce, farmers are now able to access enhanced services after the ministry made available two allterrain vehicles (ATV) and a boat and engine to boost its extension capabilities earlier this year. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 5, 2021

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Labour consultant dies at 67

FORMER Ministry of Labour consultant and long-standing industrial relations guru, Francis Carryl passed away at his Lot 7, Good Intent, West Bank Demerara (WBD) home on Wednesday after a brief battle with cancer.

A father of two, Carryl died with his wife, Lavern Carryl, at his side.

“He died at home peacefully at approximately 10:10hrs,” his wife related in a telephone interview on Thursday.

His death comes just a few months after he had launched his own business, FACS Consultancy. At the time, he had also been working as a consultant with a trade union.

Francis has over 40 years of service as a public servant, and 37 years of experience in labour relations, having started as a Labour Officer at the Ministry of Labour in 1984.

Prior to that, he worked with the Guyana Police Force in the Tactical Service Unit’s Criminal Investigation Department at Eve Leary for almost 10 years, from 1973-1982.

He spent 11 years at the

Labour Consultant Francis Carryl (right), with his family in happier times Ministry of Labour, before that it was back in July that things that he loved to do, his humility, integrity, and moving on to work at the Francis was diagnosed with and it was kind of hard for punctuality; he was a man of Guyana Sugar Corporation a rare form of cancer, and us,” Mrs. Carryl said. great time management. He (GuySuCo) as a manager in the family had braced for Although he has passed, was also a very giving, kind labour relations. He spent the worst. his wife said he will be person; very approachable 20 years at GuySuCo, be“It was very challenging, remembered as a loving and respected; by even the fore once again returning because we were accus- husband and father, and as smallest child. And he was to the ministry as a labour tomed to this lively, ener- a loyal friend. never too big to say I’m consultant. getic father and husband.

“I want him to be re- sorry. He was selfless,” she Speaking with Guyana And then, all of a sudden, membered for his core related.

Chronicle, his wife said he could no longer do the values and attributes, like During his formative

years, Carryl attended the La Retraite Church of Copeland School, which is now the La Retraite Primary School. Though he did not obtain a secondary education, Francis would go on to still develop his professional qualifications, studying at the Critchlow Labour College.

He later obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration, and a Certificate in International Relations from the University of Guyana (UG). He also obtained a Certificate in Labour Administration and an Executive Diploma in Human Resources Management from the University of the West Indies.

His wife, Lavern, is the head teacher at the St. George’s High School, while his daughter, Frances Carryl, was admitted to the bar last year. His other daughter, Tamicola, is also a teacher.

Numerous tributes and condolences have been pouring in for the family on social media. Aside from his wife and children, he leaves to mourn his seven siblings and other relatives and friends.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 5, 2021

GWI offices to be established across Guyana -new $23.6M Lethem complex to be completed by December, says CEO

Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal WITH the aim of improving water supply across the hinterland regions, the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) has started the construction of permanent offices in those areas.

This is according to Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal, who, along with Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shaik Baksh and other officials, visited one of the construction sites at Tabatinga, in Region Nine

CEO of GWI Shaik Baksh

(Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), on Sunday last.

Both GWI and the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) are renting spaces in Lethem to serve the people of the region, but with their work plan being expanded, it was deemed that a new facility would be ideal.

After assessing the progress of works at Tabatinga, Baksh said: “I’m very happy to see this structure going up

for the greater benefit of the staff and their comfort.”

He related that the facility is being constructed at a prime location, which will ensure convenient access to residents. The minister and CEO are hopeful that the staff could transition to the new Region Nine office by December this year.

Minister Croal said that this move is part of a bigger plan to consolidate the offices that fall under the

The new GWI and CH&PA facility being constructed at Tabatinga, Region Nine purview of his ministry.

“As you’re aware, GWI has a number of regional offices which we’re renting, so, in the long term, it is intended for us to have permanent regional offices, so we’ll have savings in our operational costs, but, more importantly, the staff will be comfortable,” the minister related.

He added that the office being established in Tabatinga will not only serve as the commercial office and warehouse for GWI, but it will also house CH&PA staff.

Baksh said that similar construction works are ongo-

ing in Region Five (MahaicaBerbice), and employees are also expected to occupy the new office there by December. Like the one in Region Nine, it will also accommodate the housing unit that is currently housed at the Regional Democratic Council in Region Five.

According to Baksh, the establishment of an office in Mabaruma, Region One (Barima-Waini), is also on the cards for the near future.

The GWI office in Tabatinga is being constructed to the tune of $23.6 million, $18 million of which is being

financed by the GWI, and the remainder by the CH&PA. It is being built with clay and concrete blocks that were purchased from within the region.

Also paying the construction site a visit at the time were Lethem Mayor, John Macedo; Deputy Mayor, Debra King; GWI’s Executive Director of Hinterland Services, Ramchand Jailal and other officials.

The team also paid a visit to the staff of the GWI Lethem Commercial Office, and updated them on the progress of their new building. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 5, 2021

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CANU goes after ‘roadside dealers’

THE Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) has embarked on a major search and eradication operation to further clamp down on narcotic activities occurring within communities across the country, particularly in Georgetown. This is according to CANU’s Head, James Singh, who gave a statement following a successful search exercise carried out at Durban Backlands, Georgetown, on Wednesday.

Singh explained that these types of searches are necessary for the ongoing fight to make communities safer, while curbing narcotics activities on a national level. He said that the new operation targets persons who are engaged in the selling and distribution of narcotics from stands, shops and other roadside areas.

According to a statement from CANU headquarters on Wednesday, CANU ranks, acting on information received, conducted a narcotics operation in the Durban Backlands area, where they found a quantity of ‘zip lock’ bags, tobacco leaves, and a quantity of cannabis amounting to 872 grams.

This week alone, six men were arrested for drug trafficking and possession by CANU ranks following a series of surveillance and search exercises.

On Tuesday, United States (U.S.) deportee, Avery Cummings, was arrested at his Swan and Sam Ville, Linden Highway home with a large quantity of cannabis.

According to CANU, ranks discovered several parcels of the foreign strain of cannabis called ‘creep weed’ which amounted to 5.3 kilograms, along with several zip lock bags containing the locally used version of the herb, as well as cannabis seeds amounting to 3.68 grams.

Additionally, ranks found 3.5 grams of hashish called ‘has’ which is a by-product made from the compressing and processing trichomes (fine outgrowths) of the dried cannabis plant.

Cummings, who is no stranger to the law, was deported to Guyana from the United States of America in 2009, after being convicted for trafficking narcotics.

One of CANU’s recent operations also led to the conviction and sentencing of 33-year-old Eon Joseph, who was found guilty of trafficking $2 million worth in cocaine.

He was sentenced to three years in jail along with a fine of $3.1 million. Joseph’s co-accused is currently on remand for the crime.

In September, CANU and ranks of the Guyana Police Force destroyed two tonnes of illicit drugs valued at over $100 million, including a quantity of cocaine and marijuana that had been seized over the past two years.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 5, 2021

The light of Diwali ‘shin

EVEN though we are unable to celebrate Diwali 2021 in the same spectacular and large-scale manner that we did before, the lessons of the “Festival of Lights” is perhaps most resounding this time around.

Diwali meaning “a row of lights,” is celebrated on the 15th day of the Hindu month of Kartik, known to be the darkest night of the year. It honours and adores Goddess Lakshmi, who is considered to be the giver of health, wealth and pros-

perity.

Diwali is celebrated during a five-day period, with the first day being referred to as Dhanteras or the “day of fortune”; the second day is Naraka Chaturdasi, the ‘day of knowledge’, followed by the third,

which is known to be the day of light. The fourth day is known as Annakut which ushers in the New Year and fifth day Bhai Dui, which brings a renewed love between brothers and sisters.

The story of Diwali also speaks to the

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 5, 2021

nes on’ amid pandemic return of Lord Rama after 14 years of exile. Upon his return, he was welcomed with lit diyas that decorated his pathway home.

Yesterday, as thousands of our Hindu brothers and sisters illuminated their

homes and places of worship, we were not only reminded of the aforementioned significances, but we were also reminded that there is light at the end of every dark tunnel.

As we continue to brave a global pan-

demic and face our own personal battles, we are reminded that positivity trumps negativity; that knowledge overpowers ignorance and that in everything we do, our home must outshine our feeling of despair.

Although a Hindu religious holiday,

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Diwali remains a treasured part of Guyana’s religious and cultural heritage, and is celebrated heartily by Guyanese from all walks of life. As depicted in these Delano Williams’ photos, yesterday’s celebrations were no different.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 5, 2021

Almost $60M spent to help persons facing ‘difficult circumstances’ –– Human Services and Social Security Minister says

JUST under $60 million has been spent so far for the year by the Diffi-

cult Circumstances Unit (DCU) of the Ministry of Human Services and

Social Security, to assist persons facing various unforeseen challenges.

In a recent interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, said that on average, the

ministry receives anywhere between 20-30 applications per day, with assistance requested across a wide range of areas.

“They get help with

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud rent, funerals, and help with repairs to home, spectacles, help for children, hampers, we help fire victims and dialysis patients,” Dr. Persaud related.

The DCU was established to provide assistance to persons facing immediate difficulties or a crisis, and targets persons who are poor and vulnerable.

Forms of assistance available also includes assistance with small business startups, maternity kits, assistance with obtaining a police clearance, uniform for children and other help for struggling single mothers, assistance for medical procedures and even transportation fees.

“Lots of times you hear not much is being done, but people don’t know the numbers that come through here on a daily basis… every day we help. It’s a lot of people. I would say a couple thousands of persons we would have helped,” Minister Persaud said.

She related that a popular request has been for assistance in purchasing eye wear.

“With spectacles alone, almost 1,300 persons would have benefitted from our spectacles programme,” she said.

She noted that aside from receiving financial assistance directly from the DCU, when dealing with persons in need of specific assistance, the ministry could also tap into funding from other areas under its budgetary provisions “Sometimes they don’t directly come out of the difficult circumstances budget, sometimes we would even help under child care or trafficking in persons, or the domestic violence unit,” she said.

She noted, however, that there is no set amount for how much should be expended from the DCU, as aid is given based on the request.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 5, 2021

Diwali - a family favourite with treasured traditions

By Naomi Parris

Growing up, there were three festivals that I was always anxious to celebrate – Easter, Mashramani and Diwali. However, this year, the festivities that I have grown accustomed to over the years were dampened by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Unfortunately, much like last year, Diwali 2021 saw me spending the day in bed, unwinding and listening to music while I reflect on the celebrations of a pre-pandemic era; I have many beautiful memories.

On the eve of Diwali, my uncle would gather the entire family and somehow, we all managed to fit ourselves into his 15-seater minibus for an exciting journey to the Kitty Seawalls to catch glimpses of the spectacular Diwali Motorcade and light-up along the Rupert Craig Highway, East Coast Demerara.

One of my fondest memories dates back to when I was nine or ten years old; that’s when I realised that my family had its own Diwali

traditions. It would entail scrumptious eatables, which were often loaded into the vehicle with water, juices and drinks.

I still remember my earliest Diwali celebration, which started the day before; I had just gotten home from a tiring day at school when my mother informed me that we were going out. To be very honest, my exhaustion prevented me from feeling any excitement whatsoever; all I wanted to do was shower and head to bed, but my family would not have it.

Of course, I was a little girl, so I had no choice but to follow the instructions given to me. I took a shower, got dressed in my best fit, a red long-sleeve shirt paired with blue denim jeans with a matching jacket; I’m sure I was a cutie.

Anyway, we left our lower East Coast Demerara home about two hours before the annual parade was slated to begin; it was important that we got a good parking space with a clear view of all the excitement. Despite the effort, we couldn’t find

both. It took us 30 minutes to find parking, and another few minutes’ stroll to find a nice spot on the seawall where we could clearly see the floats.

After securing a spot it was time for the parade to begin. I stood on the Seawall like every other eager child to make sure no adult or person taller than me was blocking my view. With blinding lights of gold, pink and green, the first truck appeared on the highway creating a streak of light along the road, even the Atlantic Ocean appeared to have been glistening from the reflection of the lights.

Along with my cousins, I stood in awe as I experienced what was the one of the brightest nights of my life. The captivating sights made me forget about the tiredness I felt just a couple hours before. I was truly mesmerised by the motorcades, one after the other, sporting representations of Mother Lakshmi (the Hindu Goddess of wealth), and other depictions from Hindu scriptures ensconced amidst intricate designs and devotional music that dazzled the

Flashback: A scene from a Diwali Motorcade

night.

Most of the floats were either positioned atop pickup and canter trucks, or other makeshift carriers towed by vehicles.

But what truly made the night a spectacular one was the dancers and singers who accompanied some floats, moving to the rhythmic beat of the drums and music.

As the parade slowly came to an end, my cousins and I found ourselves graving more. Was it over already?

Eventually, we gravitated towards lighting squibs and other firecrackers, which we know now, was not best idea.

Over the years, the motorcade became a major component of my family’s annual Diwali celebration.

Unfortunately, over the past two years, the pandemic has forced us to spend Diwali on the inside.

As I write this piece, I crave to be on the seawall once again to see the lights and most importantly, to be surrounded by the people I love the most, laughing and savouring the festivities.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 5, 2021

First Lady Arya Ali makes GEM’s reenvision cover

GEM Magazine is all set to make a comeback, both on print, and online, as the publication prepares to reemerge in the space it had created some 17 years ago. This will be the first publication after an almost four-year hiatus, a press release

noted last evening.

Sporting a fresh look, the 78 th issue features First Lady Arya Ali as the cover photo, accompanied by an exclusive story. The article centres around Mrs. Ali’s work, her vision for the young people, and explains how she will serve as a posi-

tive influence to mobilise the younger demographic.

When asked about some areas of improvement that can help to increase youth involvement, Mrs Ali replied, “I believe more emphasis needs to be placed on community development.

After the home, it is the community that plays a critical role in socialisation. So, youths need to start playing a meaningful role in society, first through their communities which can provide a platform for them to contribute nationally.”

Besides the extensive

cover story, the magazine is packed with other exciting features including a fashion spread on veteran designer Roger Gary’s 2022 Spring/ Summer swimwear collection; Iwokrama River Lodge and Research Centre; men’s grooming tips; the Victoria Regia

journey and much more.

A digital version of this collector’s edition will be accessible to read for free at GemGuyana.com beginning on Monday, November 8, and the glossy print copy will be available for purchase on the website.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 5, 2021

‘Mr. Bollywood’ to drop ‘Ek Chanchal’ today

Anthony Persaud, known as ‘Mr. Bollywood.’

MEET Anthony Persaud, well known among Caribbeans in New York as ‘Mr. Bollywood’, a nickname given to him by his fans who recognised and appreciated his passion for Indian filmi music.

Anthony, formerly of Ogle and Industry, East Coast Demerara, migrated to the United States some 23 years ago, and has focused his attention, for the most part, on being a vocalist. He has been singing professionally for the past 20 years in New York and is now ready to drop a new song called ‘Ek Chanchal.’ The actual song releases today, while a full video production will follow.

Speaking virtually with the Buzz, Anthony reflected on how singing at Mandir eventually turned into a full-fledged career. This experience, he observed, gave him the breakthrough he needed and helped him get over his fear of crowds.

His family’s musical background also contributed wholesomely to his musical journey.

Also a show and events promoter, Anthony has participated in numerous competitions and won in almost two dozen.

“My first performance in New York was a singing competition for the Indian Arrival Day celebration at Smoky Park, Queens. That’s when I got into the industry and the rest was history,” a smiling Anthony related.

His new song, he said, is a rendition of one of his favourite childhood pieces.

“I hear it playing at so many events where people enjoy it, so I think it was an awesome

song for me to redo. It’s one of the fun songs I always wanted to get done; freshen it up a bit. It’s pretty much a retake my way,” Anthony shard.

So far, Anthony has been ‘remaking’ a number of the

Bollywood songs that he loves, but surely, that is not his end game; he has his sights set on writing and producing a piece of his own. “I can’t wait to be able to do this. It’s certainly in the making. I’m excited about it because I am in contact with a few writers from India and good friends in the industry that are willing to push me towards that,” Anthony noted.

His career as a musician also helps Anthony to keep the Indian culture alive, especially among the Indo-Caribbean community. “I know a lot of people have been tailoring their entertainment towards the Chutney side but I feel that Bollywood music takes more towards the cultural side,” he expressed.

Anthony said that he is very proud to know that he can promote such a rich culture in many ways, whether through competition, a live video or dropping a brand-new song.

In fact, Anthony is slated to appear on the ‘Get Real with Shameeza’ show on November 10 from 8 pm to talk about his new song and video.

Overseas-based Guyanese Shameeza Ally, a financial advisor who has also been very active in her community, launched the show earlier this year. It allows for open discussions

Anthony has been in the music industry for some 20 years now.

on a wide range of issues and also features influential and inspiring people and businesses in the US-based West Indian community.

The first guests were former ‘Miss Guyana’ Zara Khan, a survivor of domestic abuse, and

Sheffield Shorlane Douglas who discussed human trafficking in Guyana. It has also seen the likes of various artistes in the entertainment industry.

Moreover, the show allows for open discussions on the roles of women in society; it

allows them to express their struggles, and suggests ways how they can be supported and uplifted. Ally’s goal is to have both men and women open up about the struggles that prevent them from living their best life.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 5, 2021

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 5, 2021

Windies dumped from T20 World Cup despite Hetmyer fireworks

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (CMC) – Shimron Hetmyer’s career-best half-century proved an exercise in futility as a West Indies campaign that started in shame ended in sorrow, after the reigning champions suffered elimination from the Twenty20 World Cup with a depressing 20-run defeat to Sri Lanka here yesterday.

Needing to win the contest at the Zayed Cricket Stadium, in order to have any chance of reaching the semi-finals, West Indies failed to overhaul a challenging target of 190 and slumped to their third defeat in four matches to remain rooted in fifth spot in Group 1 on two points from four matches.

With wickets tumbling around him, the left-handed Hetmyer gallantly tried to salvage the run chase, lashing an unbeaten 81 off 54 balls, but his late charge smacked more of desperation than hope, and the 59 runs required from the last three overs proved out of reach.

Fellow left-hander Nicholas Pooran had earlier punched 46 off 34 deliveries at number three but he was the only other batsman in double figures, and it was his dismissal which triggered the middle order slide and set in motion West Indies’ demise.

Sent in earlier, Sri Lanka stormed to an impressive 189 for three off their 20 overs, Charith Asalanka top-scoring with 68 off 41 balls and opener Pathum Nissanka gathering 51 off 41 deliveries.

Kusal Perera with 29 and captain Dasun Shanaka with a robust 14-ball unbeaten 25, provided the finishing touches to an innings which marked Sri Lanka’s finest batting effort of the tournament.

West Indies’ final fixture against Australia tomorrow is now of academic interest only, and captain Kieron Pollard was left lamenting his side’s execution throughout the tournament.

“I think it’s heartbreaking … we’re out of the semifinals,” Pollard told reporters.

“It’s something that we have to dissect. A lot of different things might have gone wrong from the start of the tournament, during the tournament.

“So we still have another game to play. Obviously it was a heartbreaking sort of defeat. Guys are disappointed. I am disappointed myself. As a team, we have been disappointing and that is the reality of the situation.”

Fielding first for the first time, West Indies were under siege from early as Nissanka and Kusal posted 42 for the first wicket to prevent any major damage in the opening powerplay.

Perera counted two fours and a six off 21 balls before he perished in the sixth over to a diving return catch from all-rounder Andre Russell (2-33) but Nissanka, who struck five fours, added a further 91 for the second wicket with Asalanka to give Sri Lanka control of the game.

The partnership pushed Sri Lanka to 91 for one at the half-way stage and even when Nissanka holed out to deep mid-wicket off all-rounder Dwayne Bravo in the 16th over, Asalanka further punished West Indies in a 46-run, third-wicket partnership with Shanaka, belting eight fours and a six in a superb knock.

Not for the first time, West Indies’ start was less than stellar, losing both openers Chris Gayle

FROM BACK PAGE

Uncapped Solozano in... to build pressure and create wicket-taking opportunities,” he said.

“Jeremy played for the West Indies ‘A’ Team in 2019 (against India ‘A’) with success and in the Best v Best matches he displayed a sense of application, patience, and composure while looking very comfortable against both pace and spin which encouraged the panel to invest in him at this point.”

Harper added: “The squad is well balanced, with

good depth in all departments. The composition is very similar to the squad that brought us success in our last away tour to Bangladesh, with a few changes in personnel. There are a number of players who are familiar with Sri Lankan conditions and most of the others have good experience in the Indian sub-continent, so they know what to expect and are gearing themselves for it.”

Both Test matches will be played at the Galle International Stadium. West Indies will have a four-day warm-up match in Colombo from November 14 to 17.

The Tests will follow on November 21 to 25 and November 29 to December 3.

The series is the second of six series, three at home and three away, that West Indies will play in the 20212023 ICC World Test Championship.

FULL SQUAD Kraigg Brathwaite (Captain), Jermaine Blackwood (Vice-Captain), Nkrumah Bonner, Roston Chase, Rahkeem Cornwall, Joshua Da Silva, Shannon Gabriel, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Kyle Mayers, Veerasammy Permaul, Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales, Jeremy Solozano, and Jomel Warrican.(Sportsmax).

(1) and Evin Lewis (8) in the second over from left-arm seamer Binura Fernando.

The woefully out-of-form Gayle, appearing a shadow of the player who once tormented attacks the world over, lasted all of five deliveries before jabbing a catch to mid-off off in the second over, extending his abject form that has yielded 30 runs from four innings in the tournament.

When Lewis played on, trying to steer a slower ball, West Indies were 10 for two but Pooran arrived to punch half-dozen fours and a six in a 37-run stand for the third wicket with Roston Chase (9) and in a 30-run partnership for the fourth with Hetmyer, who blasted eight fours and four sixes.

However, Pooran holed out to long-off at the start of the 12th over and West Indies lost a cluster of wickets with five going down for 54 runs, leaving the run chase out to sea at 131 for eight at the end of the 17th over.

Russell (2) misjudged a short delivery from seamer Chamika Karunaratne (2-43) and top-edged a swat back to the bowler, Pollard missed a wild heave at a googly from leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga (2-19) and was bowled without scoring while Jason Holder (8) deposited a full toss from Shanaka into the grasp of deep mid-wicket.

Bravo then charged a Hasaranga googly and was bowled for two but Hetmyer sparkled at the end to narrow the margin of defeat, raising his third T20 International half-century off 39 balls in the 18th over with a boundary to extra cover before taking 18 from the penultimate over from Karunaratne.

‘The time has come’...

FROM BACK PAGE

said. "I think in the white ball formats West Indies cricket have a bright future and it's important for us to keep supporting the guys and keep encouraging them.

"It wasn't the World Cup we expected, it wasn't the World Cup we wanted as players.

We shouldn't feel sorry for ourselves, it was a tough competition; we should keep our heads high."

Bravo spoke proudly of the legacy his generation of Caribbean cricketers has been able to leave.

"It's important for us to have our own identity and not always be in the shadow of the previous legends. Obviously, what these guys have done in the 70s, 80s and early 90s, we respect that and these are the guys who inspired us to play the game.

"This is a format that was born in 2008 or

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something like that. For us to dominate the way we dominate in that short period of time in a fairly new format, I remember having a conversation with you (Sammy) that 'yes, Sir Viv and Sir Gary have their own legacy, Sir Clive Lloyd and these guys, but we have our opportunity to create our own.' We should be proud of ourselves.

"We create our own legacy. Some people might think this is a format that a lot of people don't respect, but the reality is this is an ICC tournament and it's a tournament that is sanctioned by ICC cricket so we should be proud of what we have achieved."

Bravo's international career will come to a close after West Indies' final match of their T20 World Cup campaign against Australia tomorrow. If he plays, it will be his 294th match for the side. (ICC.com)

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24

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 5, 2021

Liverpool, Ajax reach Champions League last 16, PSG denied at death

PARIS, France (AFP) - Liverpool and Ajax kept up their perfect records in the Champions League this season to qualify for the last-16 Wednesday, while a Paris Saint-Germain side missing Lionel Messi were held by RB Leipzig.

Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool blew Atletico Madrid away in a whirlwind start at Anfield, with Diogo Jota and Sadio Mane scoring in the first 21 minutes to secure a 2-0 win against opponents who finished with 10 men.

Atletico's Brazilian defender Felipe was sent off for a foul on Mane before half-time, as the 2019 Champions League winners made it four wins out of four in Group B. Liverpool are now guaranteed to top the group, sitting seven points clear of Porto with two games remaining, while Atletico are another point back in third.

“You earn a lot of money to win Champions League games. The first target was to get through this group but we did it with two games to go,” Klopp told BT Sport.

“I didn't expect we would be through after four games but the boys did it and it's really well-deserved.”

Porto drew 1-1 away to AC Milan, as Chancel Mbemba's own goal

Ajax Amsterdam's Ivorian forward Sebastien Haller (right) scores his team's second goal during the UEFA Champions League, Group C, football match BVB Borussia Dortmund vs Ajax Amsterdam in Dortmund, western Germany, yesterday (Photo: AFP)

at San Siro cancelled out Luis Diaz's early opener for the Portuguese side.

It was a first point in the group for seven-time former European champions Milan, who maintain a slim chance of reaching the knockout phase in their first appearance in the competition since 2013-14.

Ajax continued their marvellous run in Europe this season by coming from behind to win 3-1 at 10-man Borussia Dortmund as Sebastien Haller scored his seventh goal in just four Champions League appearances.

A Dortmund side missing the

injured Erling Haaland had Mats Hummels harshly sent off before the half-hour mark after he slid in on Ajax's Brazilian winger Antony.

However, English referee Michael Oliver then awarded Dortmund a penalty for a foul on Jude Bellingham following a VAR review, and Marco Reus converted from 12 yards.

Yet Ajax equalised in the 72nd minute as Dusan Tadic nipped in at the back post to score.

Ivory Coast striker Haller then headed in Antony's cross, becoming the first player to score in each of his

Dravid to replace Shastri as India head coach INDIA have appointed former captain Rahul Dravid as head coach to replace the outgoing Ravi Shastri.

Batting legend Dravid, 48, will take charge in all three formats at the end of the ongoing Men's T20 World Cup, starting with New Zealand's tour of India in November and December.

Former all-rounder Shastri, 59, took over in 2017 and his contract finishes at the end of the T20 World Cup. "It is an absolute honour to be appointed head coach," said Dravid.

"There are some marquee multi-team events in the next two years, and I look forward to working with the players and the support staff to achieve our potential."

The next Men's T20 World Cup is set to take place in Australia in October and November next year, before India host the next Men's 50-over World Cup in 2023.

The Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) announced the news

Rahul Dravid retired from ODIs in 2011

during India's T20 World Cup win over Afghanistan on Wednesday.

Right-hander Dravid is the fourth-highest men's Test run-scorer of all-time, with 13 288 runs and 36 centuries in 164 matches at an average of 52.31.

He led India in 25 Tests after Sourav Ganguly was removed as captain in 2005, winning only eight matches,

but in 2007 did lead his side to their first series victory in England since 1986.

Dravid also scored 10 889 runs in 344 one-day internationals, with 12 centuries at an average of 39.16.

Dravid retired from ODIs in 2011, having not been part of the World Cup-winning squad earlier that year, before retiring from Test and domestic cricket in 2012.

He is currently director of cricket operations at India's National Cricket Academy and was head coach for the India Under-19 and India A teams from 2016 to 2019, winning the 2018 Under-19 World Cup. Shastri was first appointed to replace Anil Kumble in 2017, leading India to the semi-finals of the 2019 50-over World Cup and the final of the inaugural World Test Championship in June, where they were beaten by New Zealand on both occasions.

(BBC Sport)

first four Champions League appearances since Haaland in 2019.

Davy Klaassen wrapped up the win from another Antony assist in stoppage time, meaning Erik ten Hag's Ajax have scored 14 goals in winning all four games so far in Group C. “We want to annoy Europe's elite teams. We're not saying we are favourites, but nobody wants to get Ajax in the draw,” Ten Hag told broadcaster DAZN. Ajax will go through with either Dortmund or Sporting Lisbon, the Portuguese side boosting their hopes by crushing Besiktas 4-0.

Pedro Goncalves scored twice in the first half including a penalty, while Paulinho and Pablo Sarabia also struck for Sporting.

Besiktas, who had Brazilian midfielder Souza sent off, are eliminated.

Messi missed PSG's trip to Germany due to injury, and without him Mauricio Pochettino's side came from behind to lead before conceding a late penalty and settling for a 2-2 draw.

Christopher Nkunku headed Leipzig in front before Andre Silva had a 12th-minute penalty saved.

Kylian Mbappe set up Georginio Wijnaldum to equalise midway the first half and the Dutchman headed

in another before the break, the goal standing despite initially being flagged offside.

However, a Presnel Kimpembe foul was spotted after a VAR review in the last minute and Dominik Szoboszlai scored from the spot to make it 2-2.

“We are disappointed, but our objective remains to win the group and qualify,” said Pochettino.

Leipzig are eliminated despite the draw, while Manchester City move above PSG to the top of Group A thanks to their 4-1 home win against Club Brugge.

Phil Foden's opener was cancelled out by a John Stones own goal, but Riyad Mahrez, Raheem Sterling and Gabriel Jesus all scored in the second half for City.

Real Madrid are two points clear of Inter Milan at the top of Group D after Karim Benzema netted twice in a 2-1 win over Shakhtar Donetsk.

Benzema's opener was Real's 1000th European Cup goal and the Frenchman got the winner after Fernando had brought Shakhtar level.

Inter won 3-1 at Sheriff Tiraspol, with Marcelo Brozovic, Milan Skriniar and Alexis Sanchez all on target in the second half before Adama Traore pulled one back.

Boult, de Grandhomme to miss India Test tour because of isolation requirements TRENT Boult and Colin de Grandhomme have opted out of New Zealand's Test tour of India because of bio-secure bubbles and isolation requirements.

The World Test champions will begin the two-match series in Kanpur on November 25, with the second Test taking place in Mumbai from December 3.

"Trent has already spent the best part of 60 days in hard-managed isolation this year, while Colin had been on the road since May until recently returning home from Pakistan," coach Gary Stead said.

New Zealand have named five spinners, including uncapped 21-year-old Rachin Ravindra, in a 15-man squad led by captain Kane Williamson.

Tom Blundell has been named as wicketkeeper following the retirement of BJ Watling.

Boult will feature in New Zealand's Twenty20 squad for a three-match series

New Zealand's Boult (left) and de Grandhomme both played in the World Test Championship final win over India in Southampton in June

against India starting November 17.

The pace bowler, 32, is currently taking part in the men's T20 World Cup in United Arab Emirates and will travel with that squad for the India series.

All-rounder de Grandhomme, 35, has played all three formats for New Zealand but was overlooked for the World Cup squad.

New Zealand Test squad for India: Kane Williamson (c), Tom Blundell (wkp.), Devon Conway, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Will Somerville, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Will Young, Neil Wagner.

(BBC Sport)

25

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 5, 2021

Best appointed to West Indies to play three ODIs, T20s in tour of BCA selection panel

FORMER West Indies batsman Carlisle Best has been made a Barbados selector, reports coming out of Barbados said yesterday.

The 62-year-old Best replaces Ronald Butcher, who has resigned his position from the Barbados selection panel.

According to cricket commentator and talk show host Andrew Mason, the members of the board of the Barbados Cricket Association (voted unanimously in favour of Best’s addition to the selection panel.

The 62-year-old Best played eight Tests and 24 One Day Internationals for the West Indies after making his debut for the West Indies against England in 1986. He is among a handful of batsmen to hit a six to open his account in a Test career.

He did so while facing Ian Botham, who bowled two bouncers at the Barbadian opener, who responded by carting the third ball for six and becoming only the second batsman to do so.

Pakistan from December 9

Carlisle Best played eight Tests and 24 ODIs for the West Indies

Australia’s Eric Freeman was the first to accomplish the feat. (Sportsmax)

I have tried to stay humble through the good periods - Ashwin

Ravi Ashwin celebrates after taking one of his two wickets against Afghanistan

RAVICHANDRAN Ashwin made a return to the Indian T20I side after a gap of more than 4 years in India’s World Cup encounter against Afghanistan.

The senior off-spinner scalped 2 wickets in the 4 overs that he bowled and gave away only 14 runs as well, to help India beat their opponents by 66 runs.

And now, Ashwin has said that life is a cycle that is not completely in anyone’s hands. Ashwin also opined that whenever he had been in good form, or whenever he has gone through rough periods in his career, he has learnt to embrace the pattern in his life.

“Life is a circle. For some people, it is a small one, for some people, it is a large one, which is definitely not in our hands. Whenever I have had a very good form, or it has been the other way, it is a pattern that I have embraced in my life,” said Ravichandran Ashwin after the match between India and

Afghanistan.

Ravi Ashwin also added that he has learnt to stay humble during the good periods of his career and even said that the legendary Shane Warne had said a person is successful only thirty-three percent of the time and the iconic Sachin Tendulkar had also made a statement of a similar nature.

“So, staying humble through good periods of success is a statement that a lot of people make, but I have firmly embraced it and I have lived it and Shane Warne has also said that you get success only thirty-three percent of the time and even Sachin has also echoed that at some stage of his career. So, who am I? I am no different,” concluded Ravi Ashwin.

The Indian side are currently placed at 4th place in the points table in Group 2 in the Super 12 stages of the tournament and have won only 1 out of the 3 matches that they have played. (CricTracker)

West Indies will play three T20s and three ODIs against Pakistan

CRICKET West Indies (CWI) yesterday confirmed that West Indies Men’s team will play three T20 Internationals (T20Is) and three One-Day Internationals (ODIs) against Pakistan, at the National Stadium in Karachi, from December 13 to 22.

The ODI Series will be West Indies’ fourth series of 12 in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League in which the top seven teams can secure automatic qualification for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 in India.

West Indies currently lie in eighth position out of 13 teams and have the opportunity to move above Pakistan into seventh position.

This will be the West Indies’ first tour of Pakistan since April 2018 when three T20Is were contested. The two-time former World Champions will be playing ODIs in Pakistan for the first time since December 2006.

“Today we have confirmed the details for the West Indies Men’s white-ball tour of Pakistan in December. CWI would like to thank the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and our own cricket operations, medical and security teams for the work that has gone into the organisation of this tour,” said CWI CEO Johnny Grave.

“West Indies and Pakistan have always delivered exciting series and we’re looking forward

to visiting Pakistan to complete what has been a hectic and momentous year of cricket in the light of the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The tour starts a new cycle of T20I cricket, building towards next year’s ICC T20 World Cup in Australia. The ODIs also have great significance as West Indies look to earn more points towards securing qualification for the ICC Men’s ODI Cricket World Cup in India in 2023.”

According to CWI, independent security advisers, Eastern Star International (ESI) will continue to monitor the security situation in Pakistan, and will also have a representative assigned to the team for the duration of the tour.

Meanwhile, the West Indies Women’s Team are currently in Karachi, Pakistan for three ODIs as part of their final preparations for the upcoming Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifiers.

TOUR SCHEDULE December 9 – West Indies arrive in Karachi December 13 – 1st T20I, Karachi December 14 – 2nd T20I, Karachi December 16 – 3rd T20I, Karachi December 18 – 1st ODI, Karachi December 20 – 2nd ODI, Karachi December 22 – 3rd ODI, Karachi

Reifer, Cornwall hit half-centuries as second Best v Best match ends in a draw RAYMON Reifer and Rahkeem Cornwall scored half-centuries as the second Best v Best, between Team Brathwaite and Team Blackwood, ended in a draw on Wednesday at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua.

Resuming from their overnight score of 213-8, Team Blackwood scored 268 with Reifer 40 not out overnight, going on to score 62. Cornwall, 27 overnight, scored a valuable 52 that took Team Blackwood to within 58 runs of Team Brathwaite’s first innings score of 326-6 declared.

Alzarri Joseph was the best of the bowlers with 4-48. Jomel Warrican who did most of the damage on Tuesday ended with 3-38.

Batting a second time, Team Brathwaite stumbled to 46-4 when captain Kraigg Brathwaite

declared. Jeremy Solozano top-scored with 12 before retiring hurt. Joshua Da Silva, who seems to be struggling for form, scored 11 before he was dismissed lbw by Cornwall.

Shannon Gabriel, who is returning from injury, claimed the wickets of Kyle Mayers for seven and Brathwaite for two, to finish with figures of 2-24 from his five overs. Cornwall was stingy taking 2-2 from 2.4 overs.

Chasing 105, Team Blackwood’s Shayne Moseley scored 29 and Kavem Hodge 26 in a first-wicket partnership of 57. Hodge then lost his wicket to Imran Khan before the match was called off and declared a draw.

Khan had figures of 1-27 from 7.2 overs.

(Sportsmax)

26

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 5, 2021

EBFA ATC top Group A of GFF Yorkshire suspended by ECB from Boys’ U13 Challenge Trophy hosting international cricket

Bartica U13 ATC

THE East Bank Demerara Football Association Academy Training Centre (ATC) U13 Boys’ Team climbed to first place in Group A of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Inter-Academy Boys’ U13 Challenge Trophy last weekend, defeating rivals from the Bartica Football Association (BFA) in a close-fought 2-1 win.

West Demerara and Rupununi played out a thrilling 2-2 draw in Group A at Leonora on the same day, with two first-half goals from Rupununi’s Joseph Eusebio, which were cancelled out after the break, by Colin Frank-David and a Neyo Robinson own goal.

The final match of the weekend between Upper Demerara and Berbice in Group B at Wisburg Secondary School on October 31 was abandoned due to the inadequate preparation of the field of play, with Berbice awarded an automatic three points for the win as the away team.

The results mean that East Bank leapfrog Bartica at the top of Group A, while Berbice rise above Upper Demerara into third place in Group B, behind leaders Georgetown and second-placed East Coast Demerara.

The U13 boys’ tournament is part of the GFF’s ground-breaking ATC programme, the first of its kind in the Caribbean and launched

in 2017.

The ATC is an elite and selective national youth development programme that gives girls and boys aged between 6 and 19 a weekly, structured training curriculum that is anchored in the GFF’s football philosophy and delivered consistently throughout the GFF’s nine regional associations.

The competition will see all nine associations field a team from their U13 ATC groups, alongside the National U17 Women’s Team participating as guests.

According to the GFF, the primary purpose of the tournament is to identify players to participate in the Caribbean Football Union Boys’ U14 Challenge Series in 2022.

On Saturday,Essequibo/Pomeroon take on West Demerara at 13:00hrs. at a venue to be confirmed, while Rupununi play Bartica from 15:00hrs at the Aranaputa Sports Ground.

On November 7, Georgetown will go up against Upper Demerara at a time to be confirmed.

A previously planned match between the East Coast and the National U17 Women’s Team, back from a historic bid to reach the 2022 CONCACAF Championship, will be rescheduled.

YORKSHIRE have been suspended from hosting international and major matches, including the Hundred final, following an ECB board meeting to discuss the implications of the Azeem Rafiq racism investigation.

The club had been due to host the third Test against New Zealand at Headingley in June next year, as well as an ODI against South Africa and the potential for knockout fixtures in the Hundred, as the host Gary Ballance (left) and Azeem Rafiq are former venue of Northern SuperchargYorkshire teammates (Reuters photo) ers. They were also scheduled tion towards Yorkshire, mostly notably from to host an Ashes Test in 2023.

However, in a statement, ECB said that the UK health secretary, Sajid Javid, who the club would be stripped of its major-match demanded that "heads should roll" in a reply status until such time as it has "clearly to the ESPNcricinfo story on Twitter.

A raft of sponsors have subsequently sevdemonstrated that it can meet the standards expected of an international venue, ECB ered ties with the club, including Headingley's title sponsors, Emerald Group Publishing; member and first-class county".

A senior Yorkshire player, Gary Ballance, Nike, the club's kit sponsor, and long-term who on Wednesday admitted to using racist local supporters, Yorkshire Tea and Tetley language towards his former teammate Rafiq, Bitter.

There is potential for further embarrasshas also been suspended indefinitely from ment for the club, and by extension, English England selection.

"It is clear to the Board that YCCC's han- cricket, when senior Yorkshire board memdling of the issues raised by Azeem Rafiq is bers, including chairman Roger Hutton, chief wholly unacceptable and is causing serious executive Mark Arthur and director of cricket damage to the reputation of the game," the Martyn Moxon, appear before the DCMS ECB said in a statement. "The ECB find this select committee on November 16.

Rafiq is also expected to give testimony, matter abhorrent and against the spirit of under the protection of parliamentary privcricket and its values.

"There is no place for racism or any form ilege.

As a consequence, the ECB board has of discrimination in cricket and where it is found, swift action must be taken. This matter pledged to hold Yorkshire to account in remust be dealt with robustly if the sport is to lation to their handling of the matter. "Given demonstrate its commitment to truly being a recent events, it is clear there are serious questions regarding the governance and game for everyone."

The removal of major matches is the management of YCCC," the ECB statement latest blow to a county that has been fighting continued. "The club's failure in relation to to manage its reputation ever since the con- actions and responses to their own report repclusion of an investigation into allegations of resents a significant breach of its obligations institutional racism, stemming from a series to the game."

The statement further added that the of interviews by their former captain Rafiq, ECB executive will commission a review including with ESPNcricinfo, last year.

After initially refusing to make public the of Yorkshire's governance "to consider findings of an independent report, the ECB whether the existing arrangements are finally received a full copy last week, includ- fit for purpose", while the board has also ing the revelation - reported by ESPNcricinfo confirmed that the Cricket Disciplinary - that the racial slur "P**i" had been deemed Committee, the independent tribunal that an equivalent term to "Zimbo", the nickname adjudicates on all breaches of the board's that Rafiq was understood to have used for code of conduct, will scrutinise the findings of the Rafiq investigation and take approBallance.

This led to an outpouring of condemna- priate action. (Cricinfo)

England's Tymal Mills out of T20 World Cup with thigh injury England pace bowler Tymal Mills has been ruled out of the remainder of the T20 World Cup with a thigh strain.

The left-armer, 29, left the field mid-over during Monday's Super 12 win over Sri Lanka after damaging his right quadriceps while bowling.

Mills has played in all four England matches, taking seven wickets at an average of 15.42 and economy of 8.00.

He is replaced by left-arm fast bowler Reece Topley, one of three England reserves in the United Arab Emirates.

England are all but certain of a place in the semi-finals after winning their opening four games.

They face South Africa in their final Group 1 match in

Sharjah on Saturday.

Mills, who was recalled to the England squad for the World Cup after a four-year absence, has struggled with injuries throughout his career.

He was diagnosed with a congenital back condition in 2015 and suffered another stress fracture earlier this year.

Fellow England pace bowler Mark Wood has not yet played in the World Cup. He had an ankle injection before England's tournament opener against West Indies.

Left-arm seamer Sam Curran withdrew with a back injury before the tournament started and was replaced by his brother Tom.(BBC Sport)

Tymal Mills is England's joint leading wicket-taker in the T20 World Cup, alongside Adil Rashid

27

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 5, 2021

Australia thrash Bangladesh to boost T20 World Cup semi-final hopes Adam Zampa took a career-best 5-19 against Bangladesh yesterday

AUSTRALIA boosted their hopes of qualifying for the Men's T20 World Cup semi-finals with an eight-wicket thrashing of already-eliminated Bangladesh in Dubai.

Bangladesh were bowled out for just 73 and Australia chased the target in 6.2 overs to significantly improve their net run-rate and climb above South Africa into second place in Group 1.

Aaron Finch made 40 and David Warner 18 before Mitchell Marsh pulled for six to win the game with 82 balls to spare.

Adam Zampa took a career-best 5-19.

It was a woeful batting display from Bangladesh but Mitchell Starc exploited the early swing with the left-armer and Josh Hazlewood both taking two wickets.

Australia knew that chasing the target in 8.1 overs would see them overtake South Africa and after three quiet overs, they took 21 off Mustafizur Rahim to propel their chase.

Finch and Warner were bowled by Taskin Ahmed

and Shoriful Islam but Justin Langer's side cruised home and capped off an all-round perfect display.

England, who top Group 1, are still not guaranteed a semi-final spot but it would require a huge defeat against South Africa on Saturday for them to not progress.

If South Africa beat England then Australia must beat the already-eliminated West Indies to progress to the final four.

THE TOURNAMENT OF LEG-SPIN? After his five wickets, Zampa is now the joint leading wicket-taker in the Super 12s stage of the World Cup with 10 wickets.

As is often the case in this format, leg-spinners are thriving in the tournament with Zampa joined in the top five by Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga, England's Adil Rashid and Afghanistan's Rashid Khan.

Zampa, who picked up the final five wickets of the innings and recorded the best figures in the tournament, cleverly changed his pace on occasion to hurry the batters but continually targeted the stumps in a highclass bowling display.

He was aided by some excellent catching with wicketkeeper Matthew Wade doing well to take a big nick from Shamim, while captain Finch took two good catches at slip to dismiss Afif Hossain and Shoriful Islam.

Zampa, who is ranked sixth in the world, completed the job

Britton excites, but bows out of Ecuador Open SHEMAR Britton ended his participation at the Ecuador Open Table Tennis tournament in the Roundof-16, with a hard-fought four-sets-to-one defeat against India’s Manush Shah.

Britton, 23, and a former Caribbean U21 Champion, was the lone Guyanese at the tournament. He had won the two previous matches in dominating fashion to set up a showdown with his Indian counterpart.

The Guyanese lost the first set 7-11 and showed determination in the second set, but lost it 13-15. Britton

Shemar Britton in action at the Ecuador Open (Photo compliments: ITTF)

was beaten 5-11 in the third set, but rebounded to take the fourth 11-7. However, Shah closed things off 5-11 in the fifth set to advance to the quarter-finals.

after Starc, Hazlewood and Maxwell tore through the top order with relatively ease.

Starc went very full, almost consistently yorker length, and that brought the wicket of Li-

ton Das in the first over, while Hazlewood stuck to his Testmatch line and length to force Soumya Sarkar to drag on and Mohammad Naim to miscue a pull to square leg.

In the chase, Warner and Finch were watchful at the start before Warner hit three fours off Mustafizur and Finch a towering six over deep square leg.

The next over saw Finch

hit Taskin for successive sixes - one a gorgeous drive over extra cover - to practically guarantee victory via the massive margin they needed.

(BBC Sport)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 5, 2021 PAGE

23

Left-hander Shimron Hetmyer goes on the attack during his unbeaten 81 against Sri Lanka yesterday

‘The time has come’ West Indies superstar confirms retirement WEST Indies superstar Dwayne Bravo has confirmed he will retire at the end of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. In August, captain Kieron Pollard announced Bravo had played his final T20I in the Caribbean.

Following his side's loss to Sri Lanka yesterday, Bravo confirmed he would be hanging up his boots, in a conversation with former captain Darren Sammy and commentator Alex Jordan on the ICC's post-match Facebook Live show.

“I think the time has come," Bravo said. "I’ve had a very good career. To represent the West Indies for 18 years, had some ups and downs, but as I look back at it I’m very grateful to represent the region and the Caribbean people for so long.

"To win three ICC trophies, two with my captain (Darren Sammy) on the left here.

“One thing I am proud about is that with the era of cricketers we had we were able to make a name for ourselves on the global stage and not only do that but have silverware to show for it."

Windies dumped from T20 World Cup despite Hetmyer fireworks

Uncapped Solozano in West Windies 15-man squad for Sri Lanka Test tour

Dwayne Bravo of West Indies reacts as they leave the field during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup match between West Indies and Sri Lanka at Sheikh Zayed stadium yesterday in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (Photo by Gareth Copley-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)

A two-time T20 World Cup winner, Bravo has played 90 T20Is for the Caribbean outfit, taking 78 wickets and scoring more than 1 000 runs.

The seam-bowling all-rounder made his international debut in 2004, going on to play 293 matches.

A T20 trend-setter throughout his career, Bravo has been one of the format's finest exponents of the slower ball and excelled at the death with both bat and ball.

In 2012, he was the man to take the winning catch when West Indies won the T20 World Cup for the first time and he was there again when they took the tournament in 2016.

The veteran spoke glowingly of West Indies' future prospects in limited overs cricket, vowing to do what he could to help the next generation.

"For me now I want to try and pass on whatever experience and information I have with the younger players," he TURN TO PAGE 23

Trinidad left-handed opening batsman Jeremy Solozano is the lone new cap in the West Indies Test squad for Sri Lanka

THE Cricket West Indies (CWI) selection panel yesterday announced the West Indies squad for the Test series in Sri Lanka.

The selection panel named one uncapped player in the 15-member squad – Jeremy Solozano, the left-handed opening batsman – following the two recent three-day Best v Best matches and training sessions at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua.

Roger Harper, Lead Selector said: “The Best v Best matches provided the opportunity for the players to spend some time in the middle honing their skills for this tour.

The aim was to simulate as much as possible, the conditions that the team will likely face in Sri Lanka, so it was good to see the batsmen spending time at the crease while putting some scores together and the bowlers looking TURN TO PAGE 23 PAGE 26

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2021