Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 10-08-2021

TUESDAY 10th August, 2021

' No.106449

Amendments to Petroleum Act passed; fair compensation promised for landowners

PAGE

04

Consumers, business 03 community to save $4.8B PAGE

– as President Ali orders reduction in freight charges to pre-pandemic levels

Guyana receives US$79.6M for seventh oil lift 08 PAGE

GDF Sergeant, two ex-soldiers to face charges for gold heist 13 PAGE

Lowenfield withdraws case against 16 Gunraj, Shadick ahead of court ruling PAGE

Van West-Charles charged for 12 submitting bogus invoice to GEA PAGE

President Dr. Irfaan Ali presented an exquisite piece of woodwork from renowned Guyanese sculptor Winslow Craig, as a gift of appreciation, on behalf of the people of Guyana, to outgoing CARICOM Secretary-General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque at State House on Monday (Ministry of the Presidency photograph)

2

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Jagdeo cites hypocrisy in ‘politically instigated’ vaccine protests

– as House Speaker ‘shuts down’ Harmon’s motion for debate V I C E - P r e s i d e n t , D r.

Bharrat Jagdeo believes the protests against the government’s latest move to push the COVID-19 vaccines are politically instigated. In a Facebook post on Monday, Jagdeo described the picketing exercise as being “absolutely abhorrent”.

He went on to question the motive behind the protests, and the reason why no such actions were taken against the former David Granger-led administration, which had instituted far more drastic measures than requiring lifesaving vaccinations for Guyanese.

The Vice-President made specific reference to the gazetted Public Health Ordinance of March 16, 2020, which saw then President Granger signing an Order to enact Article 139 (1 (g) of the Constitution, which gave the government the authority

Vice-President. Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo to not only destroy people’s possessions and properties, but also deprive persons of their personal liberty and freedom of movement.

More specifically, Jagdeo reminded the House that the Order empowered the then Public Health Minister, Volda Lawrence to implement several drastic

measures against persons who have been exposed to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Those measures include the destruction of the personal effects, goods and buildings of Guyanese “exposed” to infection from COVID-19; the conduct of house-to-house visitation; the restraining,

segregating and isolation of persons who may have been exposed to COVID-19; and the prohibiting or restricting of movement of persons, as well as public or private conveyances within, and to and from, areas deemed infected.

“The naysayers protesting the push for increased vaccination against COVID -- ironically clad in mask and face shields -- remained silent in the face of Granger’s draconian order,” Jagdeo posited.

The Vice-President further lamented, “It is absolutely abhorrent that while every effort is being made to save lives, politically aligned elements are instigating protests.”

He related that since taking office in August 2020, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has continued, assiduously, with its efforts to ensure that Guyanese lives are saved by securing COVID-19 vaccines, and advancing an aggressive vaccination campaign across the country.

As it is, Guyana remains one of the very few countries to have been fortunate enough to secure enough vaccines to inoculate its entire adult population.

“It is a fact that the global pandemic will continue to take the lives of our people unless we, collectively, act responsibly,” Jagdeo asserted. He said that already, in excess of 260,000 persons have received their first dose, while over 143,000 are fully vaccinated.

CANNOT BE CATEGORISED AS URGENT Meanwhile, inside the National Assembly, Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon attempted to have the latest gazetted measures debated, but Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir shot down the request, saying that the issue cannot be categorised as one that is urgent.

“The issue here is urgency; what we have is an

turning up to be vaccinated.

PEDDLING MISINFORMATION

Opposition Leader, Joseph Harmon ongoing issue, which, under the rules that apply to urgency, doesn’t apply, and so I would not be able to allow your request,” Nadir told Harmon in the Dome of the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.

As part of the new measures, the PPP/C government has decreed that unvaccinated persons will not be allowed to visit government ministries or agencies unless they make an appointment.

Harmon believes that the new requirements “severely hamper the ability of the people of Guyana to access public and government services”.

The new measures have also made it mandatory for all operators and conductors of public transportation to be vaccinated, and always have with them their proof of vaccination. Members of the private sector have since lauded the new measures, and implemented some restrictions of their own. As a result, unvaccinated persons no longer have unhindered access to certain hotels, bars, restaurants and events. As a matter of fact, only vaccinated fans were allowed entry into the Guyana National Stadium to witness the West Indies versus Pakistan T20 tournament, which was hosted on July 31, and August 1 and 3 at Providence, East Bank Demerara.

Since the measures were implemented, Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony has announced that the national vaccination efforts have seen a notable increase in persons

Even though Guyana’s vaccination campaign started off in a vibrant manner, Dr. Anthony said there have been a few political authors who have been peddling misinformation about the vaccines and their efficacy.

To make matters worse, Harmon, who has already been fully vaccinated, hosted a press conference where he called for the administering of the Russian-made Sputnik V vaccine to be suspended, claiming that it could be fake. It is the same vaccine that he himself had been inoculated with.

Nonetheless, Harmon’s utterances were soon put to rest, as the manufacturers of the vaccine responded with documentation which attested to the authenticity of the jabs. Although unfounded, the Opposition Leader’s criticisms have caused some amount of injury to the national vaccination efforts.

Added to that, Harmon had also criticised the government for purchasing overpriced vaccines; however, President Dr. Irfaan Ali immediately responded, insisting that even though the cost of vaccines have increased due to its global demand, the PPP/C Government will continue to spend whatever is necessary to protect its citizens from the virus which had already taken millions of lives. In Guyana, in excess of 554 unvaccinated persons have died so far. Although the vaccines do not guard against the virus, they have been proven to prevent death and other serious consequences of COVID-19.

“I appeal to all our people to ensure that they are vaccinated, so that our country can move faster to achieving herd immunity, and to ensure that we reduce the number of lives being lost as a result of this global pandemic,” Dr. Jagdeo pleaded in his Facebook post.

3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Consumers, business community to save $4.8B

– ­as President Ali orders reduction in freight charges to pre-pandemic levels IN direct response to increasing commodity prices fuelled by the pandemic-induced astronomical shipping costs, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, has ordered that freight charges be adjusted to pre-pandemic levels, that is, rates charged before March 2020, effective August 1, 2021.

The ultimate result of this adjustment to customs duties, excise taxes and input value added tax (VAT) on goods imported, would be the return of $4.8 billion to the pockets of consumers and the business community over the next six months.

Duties, excise tax and input VAT are calculated utilising the cost, insurance and freight of imports, thereby allowing for the increased cost of freight to be passed on to the consumer by the importer. “…we have recognised the marked increase in shipping costs from some countries which has moved from an average of US$2,500 to as much as US$15,000 per 20-foot container and from US$3,500 to over US$20,000 for a 40-foot container,” President Ali said in a statement released by Office of the President on Monday.

It is evident that rising commodity and service prices are not unique to Guyana, as countries the world over have been contending with the

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali

COVID-19-induced situation since early 2020.

The International Labour Organisation (ILO), in a report issued in December last year, said that the pandemic, along with the associated lockdowns, mobility restrictions and physical-distancing rules, have not only led to a significant increase in unemployment and considerable income losses for many people, but have also altered the spending patterns of consumers and the level of price inflation [the rate of increase in prices over a given period of time] that they face.

In particular, the lockdown measures have affected the supply of, and demand for, certain products and, hence, their prices.

In August 2020, according to the ILO, the prices of all goods and services were on average 2.7 per cent higher than in August 2019.

It has been proven that increases in food prices could have a dire

impact on living standards of lowerincome households, which generally spend most of their incomes on food.

Even a small increase can confront the members of such households with difficult decisions, the ILO cautioned.

While Guyana is revered as a food-secure nation, the cost of various imported commodities which are oftentimes a necessity, have affected consumers and, by extension, households.

C o n s e q u e n t l y, having carefully assessed the impact of COVID-19 on the economy and prices passed on to the consumer due to increased shipping/importation costs, President Ali, has ordered that the necessary adjustments to freight costs be made.

Essentially, those adjustments will be made through amendments to the relevant aspects of the Customs and Value Added Tax Acts.

“This measure will allow for a saving of $4.8 billion to the consumer and business community over the six-month period, thereby reducing revenue collections by the similar amount of $4.8 billion,” President Ali said.

Wary that the benefits are often not transferred to the average citizen, the President affirmed that government agencies will be tasked with ensuring that such savings are passed on to the consumer and not pocketed by “unscrupulous importers.”

This concession granted by the government will be effective on all invoices dated August 1, 2021 to January 31, 2022.

The announcement of this impending adjustment follows a report that other tax relief measures to support individuals and corporations amid the COVID-19 pandemic were extended to December 31, 2021.

According to a statement from the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), COVID-19 prevention, care and treatment supplies are exempted from custom duty, VAT and excise tax.

The list of specific items exempted from the aforementioned taxes include COVID-19 test kits, equipment for face and eye protection, thermometers, alcohol solutions, hand sanitisers and other disinfectant cleaners, wadding, gauzes, bandages, cot-

President of the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber, Manniram Prashad

ton sticks and similar articles, multivitamins and syringes among a series of other medical equipment and supplies.

The government’s decision to reduce freight costs also come at a time when the World Trade Organisation (WTO) has said that the pandemic represents an unprecedented disruption to the global economy and world trade, as production and consumption are scaled back across the world.

To this end, in recognising the significance of the government’s decision, the Private Sector Commission (PSC) expressed its gratitude to the Government of Guyana deciding to reduce the freight charges to pre-pandemic levels.

According to a statement from the PSC, the commission is quite confident that this new measure is widely welcomed by businesses and consumers alike.

“Notably, the PSC had crafted several proposals regarding the issue of shipping cost.

The PSC is pleased to see that this proposal was largely considered and implemented. This decision will certainly stimulate economic activity and promote growth and enhancement within the private sector while facilitating consumer saving,” the statement noted.

To this end, the PSC u rg e d t h e b u s i n e s s community to ensure that consumers benefit from all savings made as a result of this tax relief.

Further, the President of the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber, Manniram Prashad, commended President Ali for his “statesman-like” action in addressing the spiraling increase in the importation of goods due to the astronomical increases in shipping costs.

“This action will reduce significantly the price on most commodities and will benefit all Guyanese especially the poor and vulnerable.

“However, the relevant agencies should be vigilant and make sure that these reductions are passed on to the consuming public and unscrupulous importers do not profiteer from this noble gesture by the government,” Prashad said.

4

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Amendments to Petroleum Act passed

– fair compensation promised for landowners

By Rehana Ahamad

THE Government of Guyana will now have greater control over lands being used by petroleum operators, be it private or Stateowned. This was made possible through the passage of the Petroleum (Exploration and Production) (Amendment) Bill 2021, in the National Assembly on Monday.

The Bill, piloted by Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat, seeks to amend Section 52 of the Petroleum (Exploration and Production) Act, Chapter 65:04, which speaks to restrictions on rights of licensees and surface rights.

Moreover, the amendments also pave the way for private landowners to be compensated for lands that are to be acquired in pursuit of the heavily-touted gasto-shore and other similar projects stemming from the petroleum sector.

In joining the debate on the amendments, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill

assured the National Assembly that all property owners whose lands would have to be acquired for petroleum-related projects are fairly compensated. “No citizen will be bullied; no citizen’s land will be taken away, but if, by any chance, the lands have to be utilised, the Constitution will be upheld where there will be acquisition based upon fair price, so we don’t have an issue of issuing orders to acquire land,” Minister Edghill explained.

Public Works Minister, Deodat Indar also added his voice to the debate, highlighting the fact that the amendments will enable the realisation of projects which could possibly save Guyana some US$90 million in the purchase of Heavy Fuel Oils for the operations of the Guyana Power and Light generators.

SLASH IN COST The realisation of the gasto-shore project is expected to slash the cost of power generation by at least half.

The project is being pursued

by ExxonMobil’s subsidi-

Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat ary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL).

In a project summary recently submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the oil company said that the US$900 million project will be executed in several phases, namely, engineering, construction, commissioning, operations and decommissioning.

“The engineering phase will include design, frontend engineering and design (FEED), and detailed engineering. The construction phase will include procurement, fabrication and construction, installation, commissioning and start-up,” the document, as seen by this newspaper, outlined.

It explained that the op-

erations aspect will be the longest phase of the project, with a duration of at least two-and-a-half decades.

“Start-up of the facilities is expected to occur in 2024,” the summary indicated. The ground-breaking project will include the construction and operation of a pipeline from the Liza Phase 1 and Liza Phase 2 Floating, Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) vessels to an onshore natural gas liquid (NGL) and natural gas processing (NGP) plant.

“The pipeline will transport up to approximately 50 million standard cubic feet per day (MSCFD) of dry gas to the NGL Plant,” the document informed.

It related, too, that “the NGL Plant will drop the pressure of the gas, dehydrate the gas, separate out propane, butane and pentanes+, and treat the gas to the specification to be received by a planned power plant.”

The gas-to-shore project will be established at Wales, West Bank Demerara, the document reminded.

“A comprehensive site evaluation process was conducted; 20 sites were evaluated, based on a number of criteria, including topography/ elevation, soil conditions, biodiversity, socioeconomic factors, site access, and pipeline routing,” the EPA was told.

STRATEGICALLY CHOSEN

Added to that, Minister Bharrat told the House that the location for the project was strategically chosen, based on the fact that Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) is the fastest growing region in the country. It is also directly linked to the heavily-populated Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica). Region Three is also a gateway to Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

The oil company said that of all the sites assessed, the plot at Wales was determined to be most suitable, based on constructability, environmental, socioeconomic, and biodiversity perspectives.

Added to that, the oil company also has plans to utilise the plot of land just adjacent to the intended project site. The area, which accounts for mainly abandoned sugarcane fields, is owned by the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo).

“The site is generally of low value to wildlife. No critical biodiversity (plant or animal) is expected to occur at the site. There is no human habitation at the site… there are no known cultural sites or traditional uses within the site,” the company justified.

Once established, the power plant will be owned and operated by the Government of Guyana until alternative ownership options are considered. In its operations, the gas-to-shore project is expected to create in excess of 600 jobs.

The gas-to-shore project forms a major part of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government’s plan to reduce the cost of energy by at least 50 per cent through an energy mix, which also pursues energy

generation using wind, solar and water.

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, also used his time on the floor to criticise the Opposition A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) for attempting to derail projects aimed at improving the lives of Guyanese. He made specific reference to the Opposition withholding its support for the Amaila Falls Hydropower project, “purely for political reasons, and solely because they did not want the project to become a reality under the PPP/C”.

Nonetheless, Minister Bharrat reminded, specifically, that once operationalised, the gas-to-shore project is intended to also reduce the existing spate of power outages that have long hindered productivity in the country.

“Mr. Speaker, besides reduction in energy cost and in our light bills, as we would commonly say, the gas-to-energy project will reduce the power outages that we have been experiencing over a number of years,” Minister Bharat told the House.

He added, “It is no secret that with the reduction of power, cost of living in Guyana would reduce significantly, and this is something we have been grappling with for years, and more so during a global pandemic.”

The government’s aim is to have Guyana become the energy capital of the region, whilst using the lucrative oil-and-gas sector to springboard other massive industries such as agriculture.

5

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Former Antigua and Barbuda PM Sir Lester Bird dies (Trinidad and Tobago Guardian) Former Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Sir Lester Bird has died at the age of 83.

Bird died at 6:00hrs on Monday morning. The Office of Prime Minister Antigua and Barbuda announced that the country had lost one of

its most distinguished and heroic sons.

In consultation with the Prime Minister who returns to the country on Monday, the acting prime minister has ordered that all flags be flown at half-mast beginning immediately. The government has also ordered that planning to commence for a

state funeral at an agreed-upon date would be held.

Sir Lester Bryant Bird was the second prime minister of Antigua and Barbuda who served from 1994 to 2004, and he was also a well-recognised athlete.

Sir Lester’s political career began in 1971 he was nominated for the Antigua

(Loop news) Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, is back home after undergoing a MRI scan in Barbados for a head injury sustained during a protest action in Kingstown last Thursday.

He touched down in SVG after 16:00hrs on Monday. Supporters came out of their homes; some parked their vehicles on the side of the roadway to view a mo-

torcade that transported Gonsalves from the Argyle International Airport to his home.

Gonsalves who turned 75 years old on August 8, suffered a concussion as a result of the object which hit him in his head. The prime minister will quarantine at home for 48 hours before he returns to work.

On August 9, a vendor from Layou, Annamay Lewis, 56, appeared before a Kingstown Magistrate where

she entered a not guilty plea to the charge of wounding the prime minister.

She was granted bail in the sum of EC$3,000 with one surety. The matter was adjourned to September 15.

The Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force in a statement on Sunday indicated that charges are likely to be laid against other persons as the investigations continue.

and Barbuda Senate. He was also named the chairman of the ALP and the Leader of the opposition in that Senate.

Sir Lester first joined his father’s government as deputy prime minister. In 2014, he was made a Knight of the Order of the National Hero (KNH) by Antigua and Barbuda.

Sir Lester Bird

St Vincent PM returns home to welcome motorcade

Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines Dr Ralph Gonsalves receives a warm welcome at the Argyle International Airport after returning from Barbados (Loop photo)

6

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Delivering on promises

THE President Dr. Irfaan Ali-led PPP/C administration has already been successful in fulfilling several of its campaign promises made in the run-up to the March 2, 2020 General and Regional elections. Quite a few have already been completed, some at varying stages of implementation, and others in the pipeline for completion within stipulated deadlines. And all of this in just a year of its assumption to office.

These developments are all the more significant, given the constraints of the COVID-19 pandemic, the recent floods, and by no means least, a less than supportive political opposition that apparently is still unable to come to terms with its defeat at the last General and Regional elections.

Manifesto promises are important evaluation tools used by the electorate to hold elected governments

accountable. In this regard, the current PPP/C administration has not been found wanting. From all indications, the administration has fulfilled, and in some cases surpassed, several of its campaign promises, which speaks well of the President and his entire Cabinet.

Both the current COVID-19 pandemic and the recent floods have demonstrated the true character of the PPP/C Government, which has always adopted a pro-people and a pro-poor development approach to governance. The COVID-19 ‘Because We Care’ cash grant to parents and guardians of children attending public schools; the COVID-19 cash grant to all households along the length and breadth of Guyana; the elimination of Value-Added taxes on water and electricity, and a host of other items; and increases in Old Age pension are only some of

the interventions that have been made to make life easier for people, especially the more vulnerable in our society. Billions of dollars have already been spent on cushioning the effects of the harsh economic situations in which Guyanese have found themselves as a consequence of the floods and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Job creation and human resource development ranked high on the PPP/C’s Manifesto promises, and, so far, much progress has been made in having those promised realised. The Manifesto speaks to providing Online learning opportunities for at least 20,000 students, a realisable target given the fact that several thousands of Online courses have already been completed, and thousands more are in progress.

Even more important are the long-term measures put in place to ensure secure and sustainable livelihoods,

especially in the context of the existential threats posed by increasing levels of global warming. The most recent report on climate change by the United Nations has painted a grim picture of the potential danger posed to humanity, unless significant improvement is made in terms of reductions in carbon-emissions, especially by the industrialised world. Indeed, the report can be seen as a wake-up call to global policymakers that it cannot be business as usual, when it comes to climate change initiatives. The report details how humans have altered the environment at an unprecedented pace, and warns that the world risks increasingly catastrophic effects, unless there are rapid reductions in greenhouse emissions.

A ‘code red’ for humanity is how the UN Report describes the current situation.

It is in the above context that the decision was taken

by President Ali to construct three major channels in Regions Three, Five and Six. The Hope Canal has already demonstrated that such outfalls can go a long way in mitigating the adverse effects of heavy rainfall, and in that regard has demonstrated the perspicacity of the PPP/C administration to construct the canal, which has paid significant dividends as the recent floods in the country has indicated.

The massive eight-door Hope/Dochfour Canal built by the PPP/C administration prior to demitting office in 2025 was heavily criticised by the then political opposition. Many Guyanese, especially those living in Region Four, are today in high praise of the canal, and attribute the mitigation of flood in Region Four to that project. The memory of the 2005 flood in Region Four still lingers in the minds of residents, and many credit the construction

of the Hope/Dochfour canal as the main factor responsible for the rapid drainage of water which, otherwise, could have resulted in severe floods and damage to crops and livestock.

Meanwhile, wildfires are continuing to create havoc in some parts of the United States and Europe, an indication of extreme weather patterns experienced in different parts of the world, as a consequence of climate change.

The people-oriented and pro-poor approach taken by President Ali and his PPP/C administration has certainly brought much relief to Guyanese right across the political and ethnic spectrum. This is indeed a defining element of a caring administration, hard at work and full of energy for, and on behalf of, the Guyanese people.

Teachers as role models should show better judgement

Dear Editor,

THE Guyana Teachers Union now stands exposed as a political scapegoat of the PNC given its recent pronouncement that, “Teachers! We will stand with you should there be any attempt to make vaccination mandatory for returning to the classroom.”

This should be contrasted with the President’s statement in which he urged teachers to show leadership and get vaccinated. He explained the dangers of the GTU’s stance when he summed up that, “Because vaccines inoculate everyone against this dreaded deadly virus, all of us should be troubled by those who refuse to be vaccinated. The unvaccinated are now as deadly as the virus itself for

they are not only susceptible to infection, they will carry it… the government has a responsibility to defend the health of all”.

We are our brothers’ keepers and it is our duty to encourage them to get vaccinated, the GTU’s statement defies the commitment it has made to ‘embark on a sensitisation campaign to better inform teachers of the facts surrounding vaccination and the importance and benefits of being vaccinated.’ It runs contradictory and implies that, ‘It’s Ok not be vaccinated and the government cannot force you to’. This type of defiance sends the wrong message to teachers. Teachers are required to set good examples and are role models for our children; when they do not become vaccinated many of our children will

want to do that and the ‘unvaccinated’ will indeed be ‘as deadly as the virus’ and will be carriers. When our very education system which [is] supposed to be in the forefront to encourage the vaccination drive is playing politics with our children’s future then indeed ‘the government has a responsibility to defend the health of all’.

Indeed the time has come for vaccination to become mandatory.

The decision to vaccinate or not to should no longer be an individual’s decision; to allow any individual the choice to do so is tantamount not only to being ‘tyrannical’ but dictatorial on the part of the GTU. The government must act to protect everyone and making it mandatory should now be the way for-

ward. The world leaders are now coming to realise that COVID-19 vaccination must be made mandatory. In the UK, the government passed a new legislation which will be effective from November 11th which will require people working in care homes to be vaccinated to protect them from the risk of death and serious illness that can arise from contracting COVID-19.

France has agreed to legislate similarly. Whilst the GTU has said that, ‘Our teachers are no different since some of our members have reservations due to personal illnesses and/ or fear’ it needs to understand that the fears of far worst personal illnesses to our people are a lot more real than imaginary.

An article published by McKinsey and Company sub-

mitted that, despite pockets of concerns, consumer confidence in COVID-19 vaccines is increasing as more real life experiences accumulates on the safety and efficacy of the vaccines (https://www. mckinsey.com/industries/ pharmaceuticals-and-medical-products/our-insights/ getting-to-work-employersrole-in-covid-19-vaccination#). Teachers must use the research tool to gather and sift information so as to make informed decisions; they must not be misled. I am very disappointed that my erstwhile colleagues would fall for such cheap political garbage.

The government as an employer has a responsibility to ensure the health and safety of their employees and any visitors to their premises

such as customers, suppliers and the general public.

Should this not apply to the teachers and the school environment? What about the responsibilities of the teachers as employees? It is your responsibility to ensure not only your well-being but that of your colleagues and those under your charge-- your students.

As our infections and death from COVID-19 are climbing rapidly and as we are now threatened by the Delta variant, imagine how ridiculous it is that it is mandatory to be fully vaccinated to enter a night club or a sports stadium rather than to enter a classroom.

Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf

7

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

The Amalia Falls Hydropower Project has more advantages than disadvantages

Dear Editor,

I write to you today in regard to the Amalia Falls Hydropower Project (AFHP) which the Government of Guyana is looking to revive. Over the years, I have paid close attention to the project and with its revival on the way, I write with much enthusiasm. I strongly believe that the AFHP is the way to go and I commend the government for looking in its direction once again.

With the advent of climate change, we can all agree that it is time for countries to do more so as to mitigate the effects which it may have on the earth. One of the things that were taught to us in school is that countries should try to implement strategies that would help them to become carbon neutral to save the environment. However, we see many countries lacking in this regard. Nevertheless, Guyana is presented with a great opportunity where it can transform its electricity sector into becoming much closer to an emission free status. This opportunity is through the AFHP. If memory serves me right, it was in 2016 when the Government of Guyana and the Government of Norway commissioned a study by Norconsult AS to carry out an initial analysis on the project. The study was objective and based solely on

facts and the results reflected same. One of the things that the study concluded was the fact that the electricity sector in Guyana could be significantly changed for the better if its hydropower potential is developed. The fastest way for that potential to be developed was noted as the AFHP which would see Guyanese benefitting in the long run.

With this in mind, I believe that with Guyana being projected to grow significantly in the coming years due to its oil reserves, the AFHP would see even greater economic growth for the country. This would obviously propel Guyana further on the world stage which would in turn allow for drawbacks including more foreign direct investments and economic development. Our leaders appear to be focusing in the right direction by putting the much- needed emphasis on the hydropower project.

Coming back to the study

by Norconsult, the findings also showed that the project would not have much negative environmental and social impacts. In fact, no resettlement will be required and there will be limited human activity in the area directly affected by the project. In addition to this, the live storage volume will be small compared to the annual water flow and the plant will be operated mainly as a run-ofriver plant with little impact on

the downstream river hydrology for the most part. This would mean that the AFHP would not interfere with communities and citizens residing in and around the area. Once the project is completed, there would not be any negatives as every Guyanese will benefit in some way from cheaper electricity.

It is time for Guyanese to embrace projects such as the AFHP and lend support in whatever way possible. I say this because we all want development and we all want to live in a society where we are able to continually better our lives. The AFHP will give us that reality. In addition, the project will give way for other generating sources to be added in parallel like sun, wind and thermal production for renewable energy. From the way I see it, the AFHP has more advantages than disadvantages and I am sure the few disadvantages which exist can and will be dealt with by the government before work commences. As such, I reiterate my call for Guyanese to lend support towards this project as the 2016 Norconsult study paints a very promising future for Guyana should we capitalise on the opportunity to transform our electricity sector.

Respectfully, Anson A Paul

We are responsible for each other’s lives and health in this pandemic Dear Editor, I’m pro-vaccine and fully vaccinated four months now.

However, I do feel the need for the public to be educated on the reason why there is a need for mass vaccination at this time.

The main reason why we are encouraging folks to be vaccinated is to achieve what we call “herd immunity”. This is where so many persons in the population are vaccinated, creating a strong immune system that they cover those who are not vaccinated and the virus hits so many resistant persons it stops thriving and dies away. If herd immunity is not achieved in a timely manner, those of us who are vaccinated will serve no purpose. We are responsible for each other’s lives and health

in this pandemic.

I do agree that each person should be able to make a conscious, personal decision as to whether or not they wish to take the vaccine.

If we do not act soon, the virus will keep spreading and evolving into more dangerous forms (mutations).

Studies have shown that COVID-19 infection can lead to long term organ-system damages such as loss of function in parts of the lungs and erectile dysfunction ( difficulty in having and or maintaining an erection) in men.

So far in Region One (Barima Waini), over 50 per cent of the population has been vaccinated and there is no record of a single death due to the reception COVID 19 vaccines in this region.

It is true that everyone’s body operates differently.

We are living in the in-

formation and technology era where it is important to filter information and too much information can cause confusion.

There is a COVID-19 information page on Facebook that can be accessed for reliable information and PAHO/ WHO also have social media pages and websites where one can go to clarify doubts and understand more about the pandemic we are facing.

There are posters and pamphlets with reliable information distributed across the country as well.

Let’s stay safe, have faith and help make our beautiful Guyana a safer place.

Please let’s do our part.

If your conscience leads you this way-- don’t hesitate. Do get vaccinated today.

Yours sincerely, Dr Susannah Isaacs

8

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Guyana receives US$79.6M for seventh oil lift

– monies in Natural Resources Fund total US$436M

By Rehana Ahamad

GUYANA recently received payment for its seventh oil lift, to the tune of US$79,617,561.87, the largest single oil payment the country has received to date. In a statement issued on Monday, the Ministry of Natural Resources said that the aforementioned

payment was for 1,047,820 barrels of oil, which was extracted from the Liza Destiny Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel on July 3, 2021.

The seventh oil lift brings the country’s oil extractions to a grand total of 7,056,262 barrels, and accumulative earnings of US$388,777,840.

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat on Monday informed the 31st Sitting of the National Assembly that this amount, plus royalties, put the total in the Guyana’s Natural Resources Fund (NRF) to US$436 million, which remains untouched.

In defending the Petroleum (Exploration and Pro-

Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat duction) Amendment Bill, Minister Bharrat recommitted the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government’s intention to be transparent in relation to the use and management of the oil funds.

“As the Government of Guyana manages the nation’s patrimony to the benefit of all Guyanese, it remains committed to providing updates on oil lifts and sales, as may be necessary, to ensure that all stakeholders and members of the public are informed,” the ministry said in its statement.

Minister Bharrat further assured the House that he and his colleagues in government “intend to ensure there is strong parliamentary oversight” of the country’s oil revenues.

M o r e s p e c i f i c a l l y, President Dr. Irfaan Ali had pledged the government’s commitment to even strengthening the systems that govern the use of Guyana’s oil revenues. “We committed, during the campaign, that there will be no secrecy in revenues received by the country from our natural resources, especially oil and gas, and we have stuck to that commitment,” President Ali told reporters during a recent press conference.

He said that in doing so, the government has always ensured that the public is notified of all the monies deposited into the Natural Resources Fund (NRF). The oil earnings, the President related, are also gazetted.

Even further, Dr. Ali said that the oil revenues will also be documented Online.

“We are moving a step further in creating a bal-

ance sheet that persons can examine, Online, and be kept abreast of revenues and expenditure,” the Head of State said.

Guyana’s petroleum earnings could reach as much as US$500 million by the end of this year.

He reasoned that the NRF, also a Sovereign Wealth Fund, is critical to safeguarding resources for future generations of Guyanese, President Ali said.

He noted, however, that this coincides with the fact that the country has “immediate needs” that have to be financed.

Dr. Ali had affirmed that even if the government decides to dip into the NRF, mechanisms are in place to ensure that any and every withdrawal has to receive the requisite approval from the National Assembly.

“Any projects to be financed from these funds must be approved by the National Assembly,” President Ali stressed.

NEW LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK Added to that, the Head of State said that efforts are underway to craft a new legislative framework to govern the important Natural Resources Fund. Dr. Ali said that even though the PPP/C Government would have liked for the legislation to be presented to Parliament before it goes into recess, the document is still being finalised. “I am aware that there are technical suggestions being transmitted to the Attorney-General, so we can finalise the legislation to take to the National Assembly,”

President Ali noted.

Should all go well, the significant pieces of legislation could possibly be presented to the House by the end of this year.

Questioned about a perceived shortfall in the release of information pertaining to the NRF, President Ali asserted that every piece of information that the government has, every discussion they have had and any change in any agreement has been shared with the public.

Currently, even with oil prices on a global rise, Guyana has still been reaping the benefits of a burgeoning petroleum sector.

Guyana sold its first one million barrels of crude on February 19, 2020, raking in nearly US$55 million. In its second million-barrel sale, the country received US$35 million, and another US$46 million as proceeds from the sale of its third million-barrel of crude, and US$49.3 million from its fourth oil lift.

In early March, Guyana also benefitted directly from its petroleum sector, receiving US$61,090,968 (approximately G$13 billion) from the sale of the nation’s fifth oil lift. Further, it earned in excess of US$60 million from the sale of its sixth oil lift, and received US$13.9 million in royalties during the first quarter of this year.

It was reported in May that the country’s total revenue is expected to increase by 17 per cent, with earnings in the petroleum sector alone reaching well over US$500 million by the end of this year.

Earnings from the country’s petroleum sector alone could very well surpass US$500M by the end of the year

Region stronger, better because of your service

9

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

– President Ali tells outgoing CARICOM Secretary-General

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali, on Monday, told outgoing CARICOM Secretary-General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, that the region is stronger due to his stewardship and strength of character.

The Dominican, who has served two five-year terms, made a farewell courtesy visit to State House to meet with President Ali and Vice-President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo.

In parting, the Head of State presented an exquisite piece of woodwork from renowned Guyanese sculptor, Winslow Craig, as a gift of appreciation on behalf of the people of Guyana for the decade-long leadership that LaRocque provided at the helm of CARICOM.

The assorted wooden sculpture of Silverballi and Saman, which represents Guyana and the other 14 member states in the regional body, was specifically crafted for the Secretary-General.

“This piece is entitled Strength and Wisdom. It is my pleasure on behalf of the people of Guyana to hand over this piece to you,” the President told Ambassador LaRocque.

“This is recognition, first of all, for your regional commitment, your leadership, strength of character, your wisdom and the prolific way you led …. Indeed, the region is stronger and better because of your service.”

President Ali said that Guyana is honoured to have

benefitted from the outgoing Secretary-General’s “stewardship” and expressed the confidence that many persons, as well as communities with whom he interacted, would have also benefitted from his wisdom, love, and his commitment to humanity.

“I am sure you and your family will have fond memories of Guyana. But we want you to know that the people of Guyana welcome you and see you as a Guyanese; after all, we are one CARICOM people.”

Ambassador LaRocque thanked the President for his kind words and the gesture extended to him.

Dr Carla Natalie Barnett, a native of Belize and the first-ever female CARICOM

Secretary-General, is expected to assume office next week. She was unanimously selected by the CARICOM Heads of Government in May. Dr Barnett will be the eighth Secretary-General of CARICOM. The others were Fred Cozier of Barbados (1968, CARIFTA, precursor to CARICOM); William Demas of Trinidad and Tobago (1970-1974); Sir Alister McIntyre of Grenada (1974-1977); Dr Kurleigh King of Barbados (19791983), Roderick Rainford of Jamaica, (1983-1992), Sir Edwin Carrington of Trinidad and Tobago, (1992-2011) and Ambassador LaRocque. (Press and Publicity Unit)

cine, and so we are not saying fully vaccinated, but we are saying vaccinated, meaning to have at least one dose of your vaccine,” he said.

However, vaccination is

not a requirement for travellers below the age of 18 years.

“In the future, when we start doing vaccination for children… then at some

Outgoing CARICOM Secretary-General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque

29.6 per cent population fully vaccinated

HEALTH Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony has reported that approximately 29.6 per cent of the population has been fully vaccinated.

The minister made this announcement during his COVID-19 Update on Monday.

Dr. Anthony said that as of Sunday, “We have had about 267,150 persons who received their first dose of the vaccine, that would be approximately 54.9 per cent of our population.

“As for the second dose of the vaccine, we have seen about 144,324 persons, which is estimated about 29.6 per cent of our population.”

The minister said these figures indicate the need for the government to strengthen its vaccination campaign countrywide.

Earlier this month, the government issued gazetted COVID-19 measures which has outlined new restrictions for unvaccinated persons seeking certain government services. The guidelines state that unvaccinated persons must make an appointment to access those services.

In addition, persons who wish to dine in at restaurants must produce their vaccination and identification cards.

The National COVID-19 Taskforce and the police would also be conducting random checks at various

Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony places and restaurants and persons found flouting the measures would face the law. This, the minister indicated, was all in an effort to protect the population.

Dr. Anthony said travellers to Guyana would need to be vaccinated and produce a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test before entering the country.

“I think that the only change we have for the guidelines for persons travelling to Guyana is that we also now require them to have been vaccinated and this means that they should have at least one dose of their vac-

point, we will probably look at asking for vaccination for children. But as of now, that’s not a requirement,” the minister said. Earlier this year, the ministry

commenced its vaccination campaign after receiving a donation of vaccines to protect the populace from COVID-19. (DPI)

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Following the rhythm of Mother Earth

THE running fresh water of the Amazon River is a welcoming sound to the peoples of the indigenous resguardo (reserve) in Puerto Nariño, southern Colombia.

This watercourse is the only access to the banks of rivers, lakes, flood plains and mainland areas that connect the 22 communities where the Tikuna, Cocama and Yagua Peoples live.

To obtain food according to each season, the Tikuna, Cocama and Yagua Peoples combine different practic-

es, such as fishing, hunting and chagras farming, an ancestral, diversified productive system in which annual and perennial species are cultivated, and where trees are selectively cut and burned to replicate healthy forest succession.

As if musical chords, these activities are all interconnected, each of them with its own time and space that respect the flooding cycles with their seasons of high and low waters. These seasons set the pace. Floods come first,

replenishing the ecosystem of the plains. The fish reproduce, eat and fertilise the soil. Then comes fishing in low waters after the fish are abundant.

Lastly, when water is scarcer, but the soil has been enriched in organic matter, farming and hunting are the main ways to produce food.

THE BEAT OF SHIFTING CULTIVATION Food generation also has a rhythm. Like the Tikuna, Cocama and Yagua Peoples in the Amazon, the Khasi Peoples in

the Indian Himalayas practise a cyclical, shifting cultivation system called Jhum, which also follows its own beat.

Every year, old fields are left fallow for a period of seven to 10 years, while a new plot is cleared for farming.

This field rotation helps to preserve the fertility of the soils. A traditional practice common to the Indigenous Peoples of Asia, Jhum fields are incredibly productive, and can generate over 60 different species of crops.

This people inhabit the

Following the natural cycles to generate and consume food is one of the characteristics that make Indigenous Peoples’ food systems some of the most sustainable in the world (FAO photo) Khasi Hills district in Me- during the lean season, or in ghalaya, India, a region that periods of food scarcity.

Indigenous languages also receives one of the greatest rainfalls in the world. A mil- play an essential role in the relennial matrilineal society, silience of their food systems. the Khasi have also adapted About 4 000 of approximately their territorial management 6, 700 languages currently practices to the seasons, and spoken in the world are indigthey generate nutritious food enous languages, which are and livelihoods not only for rich in words related to food the entire community, but with generation and traditional practices. For instance, the future generations in mind.

The Inári Sámi Peoples in Baka Peoples in Cameroon the Arctic region of northern are renowned for their names Finland also align themselves and knowledge of more than to nature’s cycles. This people 500 plants for medicinal, maof reindeer herders, fishers, terial and spiritual purposes, hunters and gatherers move while the Khasi Peoples in from the forests in the winter India have specific terms to to the treeless areas in the determine the quality of the summer, following in the soil. When an indigenous lanfootsteps of the reindeer, their guage starts to deteriorate, so primary source of food and does the traditional knowledge of the community, resulting livelihoods.

Following the natural cy- in community members forcles to generate and consume getting the names of plants, food is one of the character- herbs, and eventually their istics that make Indigenous practices.

This wealth of knowledge, Peoples’ food systems some of the most sustainable in the accumulated generation after world, acting in accordance generation, and a sharp underwith Mother Earth, and letting standing of the relationships her dictate the rhythm. This between the elements in the respect for natural cycles is ecosystem guarantee the proessential for conserving biodi- tection of their food security, versity, managing ecosystems, and the biodiversity in their and ensuring diversified, nu- ancestral territories.

Considered as some of tritious and healthy diets. the most sustainable and resilient on the planet, IndigTIME-TESTED Indigenous Peoples’ food enous Peoples’ food systems systems have survived for are about the future of food. centuries, generating an in- They can play a significant credible diversity of food, role in transforming food without depleting the natural systems, making them more resource-base of the ecosys- sustainable and respectful of tems. Why? Because Indige- nature. For this reason, Innous Peoples understand that digenous Peoples raised their people are not separated from voices in the Pre-Summit nature. Rather, they live in of the United Nations Food harmony with Mother Earth, Systems Summit, requesting where humans and non-hu- that their food systems be mans are considered with an considered as a game-changing solution. equal level of respect.

Today, when the world This respect for natural resources and biodiversity cre- looks to making our food ates a resilience that is a key systems more responsible element of their food systems. and better suited to the Their solidarity and reciproc- future, Indigenous Peoples ity mechanisms of food shar- are ready to share their ing, and the rich biodiversity knowledge of sustainability found in their territories are and resilience, and their important safety nets that safe- biggest secret: How to folguard crops, and a wild-food low the rhythm of Mother supply, particularly important Earth. (FAO)

11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Displaced Cummings Lodge farmers receive $25M in compensation

AS part of an economic recovery project in Cummings Lodge, Georgetown, 25 farmers received monetary compensation from the Housing and Water Ministry.

A total of $25M in compensation has been allocated to the farmers. Individual compensation for each farmer ranged from $100,000 to $5.6M based on claims and the assessments of the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI).

The informal land users had cultivated vegetables, orchard crops and plantain and banana.

In April, it was reported that informal land users (farmers) were hindering development works in Cummings Lodge (Parcel 1767), where the ministry has 140 middle-income houses under

ing programme, it also recognised its responsibility to ensure that the livelihoods of citizens were not disrupted through its housing projects.

The minister also highlighted the major economic impact of the construction of the houses for the nearby community of Sophia, as a number of skilled youths were employed through the

Housing and Water Minister, Collin Croal, hands over a cheque to a Cummings Lodge farmer by the NAREI. construction.

The compensation was The farmers were engaged, through the Commu- handed over, in the form of nity Development Depart- cheques to each farmer, on ment and the Enforcement Monday, during a simple and Investigation Unit, to proceeding. reach an amicable solution.

Housing and Water MinWritten claims were pro- ister, Collin Croal, stated vided by each farmer and that while the ministry was assessments were conducted heavily focussed on its hous-

Provide better services for customers, Minister Indar urges GPL

MINISTER within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, said the Guyana Power and Light Incorporated (GPL) must provide better services to its customers.

The minister made this statement on Monday while meeting with the company’s disconnection and reconnection contractors at the Ministry of Agriculture’s complex.

“GPL is a government-run institution, and you have to make sure the customer is treated fairly.

“We want GPL to have a positive view out there and it starts with us. We’re the ones going out to deal with the difficult confrontations; we have to make sure we don’t get into arguments with people,” he told the meeting.

Minister Indar said he is pleased that GPL has been dispatching its contractors across the country to provide a better and faster response to calls from customers.

Meanwhile, GPL’s Chief Executive Officer, Bharat Dindyal, told the contractors to avoid arguing with customers when challenges arise and to return to the office in order to protect themselves.

“I’ve always said to contractors, while you’re there to execute an order on behalf of GPL, you’re also con-

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar scious of your own safety, and your safety comes first.

“If you’re in a situation which you know can escalate to some harm coming to you… disengage and come back to the office, let us deal with that.”

Additionally, in keeping with the government’s ef-

forts to support the public during the pandemic, GPL has not disconnected any customer who owed less than $50,000 over the last 18 months. Instead, customers are engaged and given time to make payments before they are disconnected.

GPL’s disconnection and reconnection staff comprises four external contractors namely, Cummings Electrical, Williams Electrical, Rudolph Electrical and Quality Connections. They also have 14 internal contractors and three teams for emergency purposes.

T h e t e a m s i n R egion Four operate along the East Coast, Central Georgetown and East Bank of Demerara. GPL also has teams across the regions. (DPI)

Some of the GPL staffers at the meeting (GPL photo)

project, while others had also benefitted from several entrepreneurship opportunities.

Minister within The Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, also expressed similar sentiments as she stated that the ministry’s approach showed its commitment to the overall development of the country and promotion of peaceful

resolutions.

CH&PA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Sherwyn Greaves; Director of Projects, Omar Narine; Director of Community Development, Gladwin Charles; and other management personnel and staff were also present at the activity.

12

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Van West-Charles charged for submitting bogus invoice to GEA PRINCIPAL Magistrate, Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus, on Monday, released Atlantic

rector, Eugene Gilbert, was arraigned in court on a similar charge instituted against him by

Atlantic Fuels Inc. Director, Dr Richard Van West-Charles

Fuels Inc. Director, Dr Richard Van WestCharles, on $100,000 bail for an offence which alleges that the fuel company submitted a false or misleading invoice to the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) in November 2020.

D r Va n W e s t Charles,72, denied the charge which stated that Atlantic Fuels Inc., on November 13, 2020, submitted Invoice #100 to the GEA, at 295 Quamina Street, South Cummingsburg, Georgetown, regarding a shipment of diesel claimed to have been purchased from Global Oil NV, knowing the same to be false or misleading.

The Guyana Chronicle understands that the invoice amounted to over US$200,000, which is equivalent to GYD 40,000,000. The magistrate released Van West-Charles on $100,000 bail and adjourned the case until August 16, 2021.

He was represented by attorney, Siand Dhurjon.

In January, AFI Di-

the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) which alleged that the fuel company made a false customs declaration in November 2020 on the same invoice.

He denied the charge and is currently out on $300,000 bail awaiting trial before Magistrate Isaacs-Marcus.

AFI was granted a licence in November 2015 by the GEA, months after the coalition government took office. Following investigation in November 2020, the GRA and GEA had seized and detained 631,184.9 litres of diesel fuel worth over $80M in resale value which was imported by AFI. In March, AFI won a legal battle, and the two agencies were ordered

by Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George S.C., to release the fuel and pay $12.8M to the fuel company for storage costs.

Additionally, AFI is currently before the court in another legal challenge against the GEA, over the termination of their licence.

GDF Sergeant, two ex-soldiers to face charges for gold heist

13

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

A serving member of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), and two ex-soldiers are expected to be placed before the court today for their involvement in the multimillion-dollar gold heist at Wallison Enterprise, at Gordon Street, Kitty, Thursday last.

The suspects have, reportedly, admitted to the crime. The suspects include a GDF Sergeant and the Chief Security Officer, along with another security officer who was on duty at the time of the robbery.

The robbers carted off over $38 million in local currency and $20 million worth of raw gold.

As investigations continue, Crime Chief, Senior Superintendent Wendell Blanhum, noted that police ranks

that was found buried at the residence of one of the GDF ranks located at Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo.

At the time of the robbery, a 45-year-old goldsmith and a 20-year-old cashier were at work at Wallison Enterprise when the bandits entered at 10:05hrs.

The three suspects arrived

The millions recovered on Sunday are searching for two other suspects who executed the robbery.

He explained that the robbery was orchestrated by the Chief Security Officer while the security officer who was on duty reportedly confessed that the robbery was to have

been executed on Wednesday, August 4, but because the owner’s family was there, it was done the following day instead.

Police, on Sunday, made a major breakthrough in the investigation with the recovery of a total of $18M

Driver in Railway Embankment hit-and-run surrenders THREE days after Sangodele Mentore allegedly struck down an unidentified elderly man with his motorcar on the Railway Embankment at Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara, and drove away, he has turned himself over to the police.

According to a police release, Mentore, 50, of Kaieteur Road, Bel Air Park, Georgetown, on Monday, turned himself in at the Turkeyen Police Station. Mentore was arrested and placed into custody pending charges for failure to render assistance, failure to report an accident and failing to stop after an accident.

The investigation into the serious accident is still ongoing.

The Guyana Chronicle had reported that in the wee hours of August 6, the pedestrian was seriously injured after he was struck down by a vehicle. The driver fled the scene leaving licence plate, PZZ 1276, behind. The police later recovered it from the accident scene.

Reports disclosed that it appears that the pedestrian, who is about 60 years old, was walking along the southern side of the Railway Embankment when he was struck by a motor vehicle that was proceeding in an

unknown direction.

As a result of the collision, the pedestrian fell onto the road surface and received injuries to his body. He was then picked up by Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) personnel in an unconscious condition and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation where he was seen and examined by a doctor on duty and later admitted a patient in the Accident and Emergency Unit Critical Bay suffering from broken legs and lacerations to his head and about his body.

Man arrested in Parika with ammunition, narcotics

A 22-year-old man, acting in a suspicious manner, was arrested on Sunday, after he was found in possession of a quantity of marijuana and ammunition on the Parika Public Road, East Bank Essequibo.

Policemen were on foot-patrol duty when they intercepted the suspect and searched his person but nothing was found. However, during a search of a haversack which he was carrying on his back, a black face

mask containing two suspected live 9mm ammunitions was found wrapped up.

A further search of the haversack revealed a piece of black plastic wrap which contained a quantity of

leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis sativa.

The young man was immediately cautioned but remained silent. He was arrested and escorted to the Parika Police Station where the suspected cannabis was weighed and amounted to three grams.

The suspected cannabis and ammunition were lodged and the suspect remains in custody as investigations are ongoing.

in a white car and parked it north of the building and entered the compound through the main gate. They reportedly indicated to the security guard that they were there to sell gold.

The armed suspects then entered the waiting area where they spoke to the cashier and showed her a

small package which they claimed contained the gold to be sold.

The suspects then immediately drew their firearms and ordered her into an office where the money and gold were secured.

The entire incident was captured on CCTV cameras.

14

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

‘Invest cash grant in your children’s education’

— Prime Minister encourages parents PRIME MINISTER, Brigadier (ret’d), Mark Phillips, on Monday, encouraged parents to spend their “Because We Care” cash grants on their children’s educational needs.

The Prime Minister and three ministers journeyed to the sub-district of Matarkai, Region One, to commence the distribution process of the government’s grants to parents in the region.

While in Port Kaituma, Prime Minister Phillips told the parents that, although they might have other important items to spend the money on, they should ensure their children have the necessary tools for a better education.

“This money should not be spent on any other expenditure that you had planned; it should be spent on ensuring that your children get those extra items that you want to buy.”

Some 1,864 learners of Port Kaituma are expected to benefit from the collective sum of $35.4M. During his one-day visit to the region, the Prime Minister distributed funds to parents of learners from the Port Kaituma Nursery, Primary and Secondary Schools, Four Miles Nursery and the Falls Top Primary School.

Prime Minister Phillips, who is the head of the National COVID-19 Task

Force, also commended the residents of the Region One sub-district for their positive approach to vaccination. He said Region One has the highest rate of vaccination, with 67 per cent of the residents having already taken their first dose, while 43.1 per cent are fully vaccinated.

The ministers who visited other parts of the sub-district were the Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai; the Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall, and the Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal.

JOHN Kennedy,38, called “Big John” and Shyiem Allison are wanted by the Guyana Police Force for separate murder investigations.

Kennedy is wanted for questioning in relation to the murder committed on Jaleel Leow. Leow, a mechanic of Dennis Street, Campbellville,

Georgetown was shot four times on August 2.

The incident occurred at around 17:50hrs while the young man was hanging out with a group of people at ‘B’ Field, Sophia, Greater Georgetown.

Kennedy’s last known address is lot 751 Field 8 Section ‘B’, Sophia, Greater

Georgetown.

Meanwhile, Shyiem Allison is wanted by the police for questioning in relation to the murder committed on Laurel Samaroo.

Allison’s last known address is lot 4351 Tuschen New Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo (EBE).

The body of 31-year-old

Prime Minister, Brigadier (ret’d), Mark Phillips during his visit to sub-district of Matarkai, Region One

Two wanted in separate murder investigations

Wanted: John Kennedy, called “Big John” Samaroo of Tuschen New Scheme, EBE, was found inside a fuel tanker with a wound to his head.

According to a police report, Samaroo died sometime between 21:00hrs on July 23 and 03:00hrs on July 24,

Wanted: Shyiem Allison 2021.

Police said Samaroo picked up a fuel tanker from Parika at about 21:00hrs on Friday and proceeded to his home at Tuschen.

The owner of the fuel tanker then discovered Sa-

A 38-year-old minibus conductor was, on Monday, freed of a rape charge by the Sexual Offences Court of the Demerara High Court, after the jury returned a not-guilty verdict.

Dexter McIntosh was on trial before Justice Jo-Ann Barlow for allegedly engaging in sexual activity with a 12-year-old girl on January 1, 2015, in the county of Demerara.

The jury, after deliberating for almost two hours, found McIntosh not guilty

of rape. The State’s case was presented by prosecutors Nafeeza Baig and Sarah Martin.

He was represented by attorney-at-law George Thomas.

Madam Justice Barlow told McIntosh to consider it a second chance and that he must use the opportunity to avoid finding himself in similar situations and before the court.

In 2020, McIntosh was first indicted before Justice Barlow for the offence, but the jury was unable to arrive at a verdict. Justice

maroo motionless inside the vehicle with a wound to the right side of the head on the Tuschen Public Road at about 02:00hrs on Saturday.

The owner told police that he initially thought Samaroo was sleeping and attempted to wake him up.

After Samaroo did not wake up, the owner immediately contacted the Leonora Police Station.

Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of John Kennedy and Shyiem Allison is asked to contact the police on telephone numbers 226-7065, 227-1270, 226-7476, 2267065, 227-9271, 227-1611, 227-1149, 227-1270, 2256940-9, 225-3650, 226-1928, 911 or the nearest police station.

Minibus conductor found not guilty of raping girl

Barlow had ordered that McIntosh be retried for the offence.

Dexter McIntosh

15

President Ali mourns passing of former Antigua and Barbuda PM

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali has extended sincere condolences to the family, friends and people of Antigua and Barbuda on the passing of their former Prime Minister, Sir Lester Bryant Bird.

The President, in a statement, said that it was with profound sadness that he learnt of the passing of the former Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister.

“Sir Lester was a good friend of Guyana and the

Late Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister, Sir Lester Bryant

Guyanese people. He stood firmly and consistently with us in defence of our sovereignty and territorial integrity, raising his considerable voice in the UN, the Commonwealth and other hemispheric fora.

“Sir Lester’s party in government opened the doors of Antigua and Barbuda to many thousands of Guyanese at a time of economic decline in our country, and in so doing,

cemented his legacy as a true integrationist, which will forever be marked in the annals of history.

“We are indebted to Sir Lester and Antigua and Barbuda, not only for the generosity towards our people at a time of need, but for the unflinching support of Guyana on the international stage,” the statement said.

President Ali said the records show that Sir Lester was

highly regarded by all of Guyana’s Executive Presidents, from Linden Forbes Burnham to Dr Bharrat Jagdeo.

“On behalf of the people of Guyana and on my own behalf, I extend sincere condolences to Sir Lester’s family, friends and the people of Antigua and Barbuda.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time,” the statement concluded.

Mother pleads for help GTT to increase salary to find missing teen for all employees A mother of three is pleading with the public for assistance to find her missing 15-year-old daughter, Anastasia Moses.

According to the woman, Pollyedwin Moses, her daughter has been missing for almost a week.

On Monday, the woman told the Guyana Chronicle that she left her eldest child and her two siblings at their Enterprise, East Coast Demerara home to run some errands.

Upon her return, the teen had vanished without a trace.

“I didn’t send her anywhere. I leave them home to go Ogle to send some things for the father; he in the interior,” the woman said.

The distraught woman related to this publication that several attempts were made to contact the teen via cellphone; however, those attempts have been futile.

“I tried making contact with her but like she block me. Whenever I call, it going to voicemail.”

The woman noted that a report has since been made at the Vryheid’s Lust Police Station and the family has organised a search to find the teen.

Anyone with information can contact the nearest police station or the teen’s family on 667-8768 or 6668959.

Missing:15-year-old Anastasia Moses

THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph (GTT) Company on Tuesday announced that it will be increasing the basic salary for all employees for the year ending September 2021.

GTT’s Human Resource Director, Tiana Gurcharran explained that a review of all employees’ basic salary levels, except for management, would be done in September, and any resulting salary increases will be paid on October 1, 2021, a release said.

“We want to positively impact the lives of our trusted employees, which is our promise to all GTT employees, and we also want to ensure that our pay levels are commensurate with market rates in Guyana,” Ms. Gurcharran was quoted as saying.

She noted that a review of GTT’s senior management grade remuneration will also be done closer to the end of

GTT Human Resource Director, Tiana Gurcharran the year.

Employees at GTT have expressed contentment with the announcement, and say they look forward to the increased remuneration come September.

On July 23, 2021, the telephone company signed an agreement with the Guyana Postal and Communications Workers Union (GPTWU) that will lead to pay increases for

its unionised members.

The agreement led to a four per cent increase of basic salary for the year ending September 30, 2021, and a six per cent increase for the year starting October 1, 2021. Additionally, a comprehensive review of overall remuneration for unionised members will commence and conclude by January 31, 2022.

16

Lowenfield withdraws case against Gunraj, Shadick ahead of court ruling

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

EMBATTLED Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield, on Monday, withdrew his application at the High Court for an order preventing People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C)nominated GECOM Commissioners, Sase Gunraj and Bibi Shadick from participating as adjudicators in the hearing of the motion for his dismissal.

Last month, Lowenfield, through his attorney, Nigel Hughes, had filed a fixed-date

brought by Commissioners Gunraj and Shadick, is bound to provide the applicant with a fair hearing, including the protection of the rules of natural justice.”

On June 1, 2021, Gunraj, Shadick and Manoj Narayan had tabled a motion seeking the “immediate dismissal” of Lowenfield, Deputy Chief Elections Officer (DCEO) Roxanne Myers, and Clairmont Mingo, the Returning Officer for Region Four at the

Smith-Joseph, Sherfern February, Enrique Livan, Denise Bobb- Cummings, Michelle Miller and others to defraud the electors of Guyana by declaring a false account of votes for the elections.

They and their alleged co-conspirators are all accused of inflating the results of Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Guyana’s largest voting district, to give the APNU+AFC Coalition a majority win at the polls, when in fact

PPP/C-nominated GECOM Commissioner, Sase Gunraj

PPP/C-nominated GECOM Commissioner Bibi Shadick

Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield

application against GECOM, seeking, among other things, a declaration that Gunraj and Shadick, in their motion for his dismissal, cannot properly participate, hear and determine their own complaint against him.

Lowenfield was successful in obtaining an interim injunction from High Court Judge Justice Jo-Ann Barlow restraining GECOM from proceeding with the hearing of the notice of motion for dismissal based on the complaint by Gunraj and Shadick.

Justice Barlow had set Monday for ruling on the application. However, Lownefield’s attorney indicated to the court that circumstances have overtaken his client’s application. He then requested that it be withdrawn. Justice Barlow withdrew the application and also lifted the injunction she had previously placed on GECOM. Lowenfield, according to his application was among other things “a declaration that the Respondent, having determined that there shall be a hearing of the Motion for dismissal of the Applicant

March 2, 2020, General and Regional Elections.

In filing that motion, Gunraj, Shadick and Narayan relied on a gamut of reasons pertaining to breach of functions, duties, responsibilities and obligations to support their call for the dismissals.

GECOM had unanimously decided to send the trio on paid leave, effective June 28, so as to give it enough time to conclude the ongoing discussions regarding their dismissal within the shortest possible time.

Last week, as the hearing on these motions continued to face delays, the PPP/C commissioners sought to have them amended to also consider the termination of contracts, which is catered for in the employment agreements of all three employees.

The GECOM trio has come in for harsh criticism from the public at large for their alleged conduct during the elections.

They are currently before the court for electoral fraud.

It is alleged that the trio, between March 2 and August 2, 2020, at Georgetown, conspired with each other, together with Volda Lawrence, Carol

the PPP/C had won by 15,000 votes. This dispute resulted in several legal challenges which ended up before the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), which is Guyana’s highest court of appeal, and a five-month delay in the declaration of the results.

A lengthy recount of the votes eventually declared victory in favour of the PPP/C, which led to Dr. Irfaan Ali being sworn in as the President of Guyana.

Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar AliHack, S.C., granted a fiat to attorneys-at-law, Glenn Hanoman, Mark Conway, Ganesh Hira, Arudranauth Gossai and George Thomas, to prosecute the matters on behalf of the State.

In May, Chief Justice (ag), Roxane George, S.C., had ordered the release of the certified copies of the elections’ Statements of Poll (SoPs) and Statements of Recount (SoRs) to the Commissioner of Police (ag), Nigel Hoppie, and the DPP for use in the prosecution of the cases against the GECOM officials in the lower court.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

‘Chucky’ found guilty of murdering aunt, sentencing set for August 26

FIVE years after the brutal murder of 48-year-old Anita Mohan, whose lifeless body was found in her Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara home, her nephew was, on Monday, found guilty of the crime.

Kevin Mohan called “Chucky”, 27, formerly of Fifth Street, Cummings Lodge, was on trial before Justice Sandil Kissoon at the Demerara High Court for the September 4, 2016, murder of his aunt.

A 12-member jury, after deliberating for almost two hours, returned with a guilty verdict. Justice Kissoon deferred sentencing until August 26.

The convict is being represented by attorney-at-law, Damian DaSilva, while Prosecutors Taneisha Saygon, Lisa Cave and Muntaz Ali are on record for the state.

In March 2021, the case was sent for retrial after the jury was unable to arrive at a verdict. The case was before Justice Navindra Singh.

According to reports, the woman’s battered body was found on the floor of her

Kevin Mohan, called “Chucky” kitchen at Fifth Street, Cummings Lodge where she lived with Mohan and her son, Intiaz Khan. Khan found his mother lying in blood with her head bashed in and a stab wound to her chest. A bloody ‘rolling pin,’ and a broken bottle, suspected to be the murder weapons, were found close to the body. The police had noted that the accused confessed to the murder and had said that another person acted as his accomplice.

A post-mortem performed on the remains of the woman revealed that she died from multiple injuries.

Bandits rob Goed Fortuin man TWO bandits beat and robbed a 26-year-old Goed Fortuin, West Bank Demerara, man of almost $1M in jewellery on Sunday night.

Police said they are on the hunt for the two suspects who are known to the victim. The victim was relieved of two gold chains valued $351,000; one silver chain with a pendant valued $88,000; a gold bracelet valued $127,000; two gold rings valued $198,000 and a wrist watch valued $150,000.

Reports indicate that the victim was waiting on a taxi in front of his friend’s house at about 23:45hrs at Two Miles, Goed Fortuin, when the two suspects approached him and “they asked him why he was making trouble with somebody’s wife”.

As a result, the victim and suspects began arguing.

One of the suspects then pulled out a metal object, dealt the man several lashes about the body and relieved him of the jewellery. The suspects escaped on foot.

The victim’s friend came to his rescue after he raised an alarm. He was taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where he was treated and sent away as investigations continue.

17

‘Use the money to enhance your children’s education’

18

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

— Minister Mustapha urges parents who received ‘Because We Care’ cash grant PARENTS from the Grove, East Bank Demerara area, on Monday morning, were encouraged to use the funds received from the Government’s ‘Because We Care’ cash grants to enhance their children’s education.

The ongoing initiative forms part of the Government’s overall developmental agenda for Guyana’s education sector.

During a distribution exercise at the Grove Primary School, Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, told parents and guardians that the exercise was one of the many initiatives aimed at improving the lives of citizens and easing the burdens on parents ahead of the new school year.

He also encouraged parents to use the monies to enhance their children’s education.

“This is a programme that will enhance every child’s education in this country. It will also help parents and guardians to take care of some of the expenses that they would usually incur for their children to attend school. That is the main focus of the programme. In 2015 when we left office, the programme was discontinued.

“We heard a lot of flimsy excuses, and, as a result of that, for five years parents were not able to benefit from those forms of assistance. As

Minister Mustapha while offering remarks (DPI photo) a party, we said when we got back into government, we’d restart the programme. We did not only restart the programme, we also increased the amount of money each child would receive,” Minister Mustapha said.

Minister Mustapha also told those in attendance that since assuming office, the government has been making allocations to the various sectors to benefit all sections of the country.

“Over the last year, the government has been making allocations to assist various sectors. When we assumed office, every household received $25,000 as part of the COVID-19 Relief package.

Today, children that are attending public school are receiving $19,000.

“We will continue to make these kinds of critical investments because we see the importance of education

in our country’s development. Over the next five years, we will be making 20,000 scholarships available to the eligible Guyanese. We made a number of commitments and today those commitments are being delivered to the people of this country,” Minister Mustapha was quoted by DPI as saying.

Distribution of the government’s ‘Because We Care’ grants commenced on July 15, 2021. The initiative will see each school-aged child in the public school system benefitting from a total of $19,000 that will be used to purchase school uniforms, books, and other materials for school.

Approximately 172,000 learners will benefit from this programme providing a total of $3.2 billion towards children and families across Guyana.

A section of those in attendance (DPI photo)

19

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Guyanese honoured by NY State Senate

By Vishnu Bisram

G U YA N E S E - A M E R I C A N Dharmacharya Pandit, Sarju Prasad, was honoured by New York State Senate last week for his contribution to improved quality of life and spirituality. A proclamation was issued in the name of Senator Leroy Comrie, the representative of the area where the Surya Narayan Mandir is located on 172nd Street, off Jamaica Avenue. The honour was presented last weekend at the mandir to his family by Assemblywoman, Jenifer Rajkumar and Democratic District Leader, Richard David.

The late Dharmacharya Pandit Sarju Prasad was originally from Canal Number Two, West Bank Demerara. He was born on January 12, 1938.

Sarju Prasad was born to Jamna Persaud and Maharania Persaud at Lot 51 Resource, Canal

#2 Polder West Bank Demerara.

Unfortunately, his father passed at a very young age in 1948 due to a tragic car accident. He was raised by his mother. “His mother passed away after living an admirable life in 1988,” said her children.

Sarju Prasad was the eldest of seven children and had to assist with their upbringing from an early age.

At about the age of 14, young Sarju left Primary School, Perpetua Kawall Memorial Canadian Mission School, on a partial scholarship to high school, St. Thomas’ Educational Institute 34 Broad, and Ketley Streets in Georgetown, which was located several miles away and took hours to reach from his parents’ home.

He excelled in high school.

He wrote Cambridge School’s exam and was successful in five credits. This was equivalent to five passes at the GCE and to a class III Grade 2 Teachers Certificate.

In 1956, he started his teach-

ing career and was assigned to various schools in Guyana. His first school was at Kawall School as a teacher and ended his teaching career in Guyana at Kawall School as a Headmaster/Principal in January 1990 after he decided to migrate to the USA. Sarju got married on April 15th, 1962 to the most beautiful young lady Devika Persaud.

They were both very successful teachers. They built their beautiful home at 96 Alliance, Canal #2 Polder where they brought up their five wonderful kids – Indira, Nadira, Vedo, Manuj, and Janki. The children are all married. The couple were blessed grandparents of 12 most delighted grandchildren. “The grand children were their pride and joy,” said daughter Nadira.

In 1990, he migrated to the United States of America where he continued as a teacher and a priest. He has been serving the community for over 60

years as a pandit (Purohit) and a teacher in Guyana and the United States of America.

Because of his hard work and dedication, he was awarded “The Dharma Ratna Certificate” and also the title of Dharmacharya.

He was also appointed a marriage officer by US Pandits’ Parishad.

According to spiritual leader of Surya Narayan Mandir, Pandit Ram Hardowar, Dharmacharya Sarju Prasad “spent more than the last decade of his life serving the temple and the larger community. His children and family are part of the Surya Narayan Mandir. He served with commitment and dedication and love. We miss his service and presence.”

Family members of late Dharmacharya Pandit, Sarju Prasad, receive the honour from Assemblywoman Rajkumar

20

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

21

22

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

23

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

GFF referees ramp up preparations for return to play with Concacaf seminar THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) completed a high-level, CONCACAF facilitated referee seminar last weekend, the first in-person referee programme since 2019, as the nation’s match officials accelerate their preparations for the highly-anticipated return to play.

The sessions, including fitness, classroom and on-field time at the GFF National Training Centre, Providence, were facilitated

by CONCACAF Elite Assessor and Head of Refereeing for The Bahamas Football Association, Dianne Ferreira-James – a Guyanese national who has refereed at every tournament level in the FIFA and CONCACAF competitions roster.

“The session has achieved its first objective, which is to ensure the referees come to-

gether in fellowship for the sharing of knowledge,” said GFF Executive Committee member and Head of Refereeing, Dion Inniss.

“The aim of the Refereeing Department is to ensure we have fit, highly motivated and competent referees taking charge of the sport in all its forms in Guyana,” he said.

“This programme will go a far way in ensuring that.”

During the seminar, which ran from 6-8th August, participants had the opportunity to review and revise the Laws of the Game, enact match scenarios and discuss challenging moments that arise during competitions, such as offside decisions, fouls and handballs.

“I was very impressed with the level of the referees despite the pandemic,” said Ferreira-James. “Many of them would have been read-

ing the Laws of the Game and trying to stay updated.

It was very interactive and they were very receptive. I am hopeful that this group of referees will continue to grow and make the GFF Refereeing Department one to reckon with in CFU, Concacaf and FIFA.” While the GFF has conducted online courses for its referees, the seminar was the first delivered face-toface since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The GFF will host its annual Referees Assistance Programme (RAP) later this month as another big step towards the eventual resumption of play, which requires the green light from the national authorities.

“This course puts them in good stead. Our match officials will be well prepared to ensure they do well in that RAP,” Inniss said.

Brooks, Holder return...

“Chemar Holder returns, having recovered from his injury,” said chief selector, Roger Harper.

“He will bolster the fast bowling department. Shamarh Brooks batted his way into the provisional squad by scoring an accomplished century. He will certainly add some depth to the squad’s batting.

“Shannon Gabriel has been given time to rehab fully and build his conditioning, so he was not part of the preparations for the Test series against Pakistan, which included the Best v Best game.

“Darren Bravo has been part of the ‘bubble’ from the preparation camp leading into

English Racing Tips Epsom 13:00 hrs Intersessor 13:35 hrs Historic Event 14:05 hrs Bondi Man 14:35 hrs Poet’s Magic 15:05 hrs Maahive 15:35 hrs Mythical Madness Goodwood 08:50 hrs King Frankel 09:25 hrs Ebro River 10:00 hrs Wordsworth 10:35 hrs Joan Of Arc 11:10 hrs Ardbraccan 11:45 hrs Brazilian Beach 12:20 hrs A pint Of Bear

the Betway Test series against South Africa and has been given a break.”

The squad will be headed by recently appointed Test captain, Kraigg Brathwaite, and lacks any real surprises, with the core of the unit retained from the Test series against South Africa last June.

West Indies clash with Pakistan in two Tests at Sabina Park, with the second encounter scheduled to get underway August 20.

The hosts were soundly beaten 2-0 by the Proteas but Harper said he was anticipating a positive response.

“I expect the team to be highly competitive in every Irish Racing Tips Galway 11:35 hrs Carrarea 12:10 hrs Bleu Berry 12:45 hrs Bold Enough 13:15 hrs Saldier 13:45 hrs Punters Poet 14:15 hrs m c Muldoon 14:45 hrs Blackstair Rocco 15:15 hrs Dads Lad American Racing Tips Saratoga Race 1 Mo Heat Race 2 Straw Into Gold REace 3 Moontalk Summer Race 4 Bronzed Race 5 Flipping Fund Race 6 Her World Race 7 Abiding Star Race 8 Motivated Seller

(From back page)

department while playing with passion, purpose and determination,” he noted.

“I look forward to the batsmen stepping up as they did in the series against Bangladesh and against Sri Lanka earlier this year in Antigua.”

SQUAD – Kraigg Brathwaite (captain), Jermaine Blackwood (vice-captain), Nkrumah Bonner, Shamarh Brooks, Rahkeem Cornwall, Roston Chase, Joshua Da Silva, Jahmar Hamilton, Chemar Holder, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Alzarri Joseph, Kyle Mayers, Kieran Powell, Kemar Roach Jayden Seales, Jomel Warrican.

Canadian Racing Tips Woodbine Race 1 Beat The Rush Race 2 Louemma Race 3 Mr Will Race 4 Delightful Dreamer Race 5 Vana Grand Race 6 Penetanguishene Race 7 Echo Strike Again Race 8 No More Fences South Africa Racing Tips Turffontein 08:40 hrs Meteoric 09:15 hrs Magic Dancer 09:50 hrs Alesian Chief 10:25 hrs Orpheus 11:00 hrs Tight Five

Participant, Kenisha Prescott, 24, said the seminar was “very informative” and a “very good initiative.”

“It was needed at this moment because we have been away from football for a while,” she said. “These sessions build on our knowledge and give us insights into

what other referees might think and also clear up some grey areas.”

GFF president, Wayne Forde, observed that the sessions were a vital part of getting ready to deliver competitions as soon as the authorities grant approval to the Federation’s “return to

play” roadmap, which was developed in conjunction with UEFA. “This event is just the beginning in a series of referee training programmes that will take place over the coming months as we prepare to get back to competition,” he said.

24

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Biles, Belarus and sports drama: Tokyo's Olympics were full of surprises TOKYO (Reuters) - In an action-packed Tokyo Olympics that were held in the shadow a pandemic, the upsets were not just confined to the stadiums and sports fields.

The following were some of the biggest surprises in the Tokyo Games: BELARUS DEFECTION Arguably one of the most dramatic moments of the Games was when Olympic sprinter Krystsina simanouskaya refused to board https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/ exclusive-olympics-belarusian-athlete-says-she-wastaken-airport-go-home-after-2021-08-01 a flight home after she was removed from the Games and taken to the airport against her wishes.

The 24-year-old athlete was granted a humanitarian visa from Poland after she publicly criticised the national coaching team of negligence.

Speaking in Poland, Tsimanouskaya said her family had been afraid https:// www.reuters.com/world/ europe/exclusive-belarusian-sprinter-decided-defect-way-airport-family-fears-about-2021-08-05 that if she had returned to Belarus she would be sent to a psychiatric ward.

BILES OUT U.S. gymnast Simone Biles dropped out of the women's team event after a single vault at the Tokyo Olympics, only to return after battling a case of "the

twisties" to win a bronze on the balance beam.

The 24-year-old American had come to Japan eyeing a record haul of six golds, but shocked the sports world when she pulled out of the opening event after just one vault.

Biles returned to the competition, extolling the importance of prioritising mental health.

"I did it for me and I was just proud of myself for being able to compete one more time," she said https:// www.reuters.com/lifestyle/ sports/olympics-gymnasticsbiles-fights-off-fears-twisties-claim-sweeter-bronzethan-2021-08-03.

CAN WE HAVE TWO GOLDS? Qatar's Mutaz Essa Barshim, 30, and Italy's Gianmarco Tamberi, 29, had been neck and neck in the men's high jump competition when they were offered a jump-off to decide the winner.

Instead, Barshim asked: "Can we have two golds?"

In an image that became one of the most memorable of the Tokyo Games, the official nodded, and the two athletes clasped hands and whooped for joy.

TEEN REVOLT The Tokyo Olympics marked the launch of new youth-centric sports, with surfing and skateboarding in particular capturing new audiences.

Teens and tweens were centre stage in skateboard-

ing, where at 13, Momiji Nishiya became the youngest Japanese gold medallist after she won the women's street skateboarding event.

JAPAN MEDAL HAUL The host nation smashed its own records for medals in Tokyo. Japan won 58 overall, the fifth highest count, with 27 golds - behind only the United States and China - in sports ranging from skateboarding to wrestling.

FALLING AND RISING Dutchwoman Sifan Hassan was unable to realise her dream of winning an Olympic treble even after her surprise recovery in the 1,500m heat, where she tumbled and fell https: hassan-brilliantlyrecovers-from-fall-to-win1500m-heat.

In a remarkable feat, Hassan recovered and ran through the field to win the heat and advance to the semi-finals.

In the end, Hassan had to settle for bronze https:// www.reuters.com/lifestyle/ sports/athletics-kenyaskipyegon-retains-1500mgold-ends-hassans-trebledream-2021-08-06 in the 1,500m although she bounced back to add the 10,000m gold to the 5,000m she had already secured.

VICTORY FOR THE TEACHER Little-known Austrian amateur women's cyclist Anna Kiesenhofer, a fulltime teacher, made an audacious solo breakaway https:// www.reuters.com/lifestyle/

sports/cycling-austrian-kiesenhofer-stuns-dutch-winroad-gold-2021-07-25 in the road race and somehow stayed clear to cross the line looking absolutely incredulous.

"I am happy that I was not too scared and I just went for it," said Kiesenhofer after winning Austria's first cycling gold since the inaugural Games of 1896.

TUNISIA STUNS Perhaps no medal of the Games will be celebrated more wildly than that earned by 18-year-old Ahmed Hafnaoui of Tunisia, who stunned swimming superpowers reuters.com/lifestyle/ sports/swimming-tunisiashafnaoui-hopes-surprise400m-freestyle-gold-makesfamily-proud-2021-07-25 with victory from lane eight in the men's 400m freestyle.

"It's a dream and it became true - it was my best race ever," Hafnaoui said in an Olympic-level understatement after he held off heavily fancied Australian Jack McLoughlin and American Kieran Smith despite qualifying slowest for the final.

Hafnaoui received the ultimate validation as American medal machine Michael Phelps, the greatest swimmer in history, labelled his performance an "unbelievable swim".

OSAKA'S EXIT Days after lighting the Olympic cauldron, Japanese superstar Naomi Osaka exited the tennis competition in the third round.

Simone Biles celebrates with her coach Cecile Landi after learning she will get a bronze medal at the women's balance beam final.

The world number two was knocked out by Czech Marketa Vondrousova in her first tournament since pulling out of the French Open in May, when she said she had been suffering from depression for almost three years.

"I definitely feel like there was a lot of pressure, this time around," Osaka said. "I think it's maybe because I haven't played in an Olympics before and for the first one to be here was a bit much."

ITALIAN DREAMIN' Italians rejoiced after their athletics team won their fifth gold https://www. reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/ olympics-italy-keeps-dreaming-after-record-medal-haul-tokyo-2021-08-06 in Tokyo, pushing their overall medals total above the previous record of 36 at the 1960 Rome Games.

Lamont Marcell Jacobs delivered probably the biggest shock win in the history of the 100 metres when he took gold.

"Italy keeps on dreaming ... we're the fastest in the world," read the headline of daily Corriere della Sera after Italy then added a sur-

prise 4x100 metres men's relay gold beating Britain by one-hundredth of a second.

WOMEN IN THE GAMES Some of the most dazzling and dramatic moments of the Games came from women.

American Raven Saunders made a protest from the podium and Kiwi Laurel Hubbard became the first openly transgender ` Olympian to compete in a different gender category to that assigned at birth.

'The Duel in the Pool' between American Katie Ledecky, the dominant woman in swimming at the 2016 Rio Games, and Australian Ariarne Titmus was one of the most exciting of the Games.

Titmus, dubbed 'The Terminator', took Ledecky's crown in 200m and 400m freestyle while Ledecky proved untouchable in the longer distances winning gold in the 800m and 1,500m.

Another Australian, Emma McKeon, made history by becoming the first woman swimmer to win seven medals in a single Games, four of them gold.

Belarusian sprinter auctions medal to support athletes caught up in crackdown WARSAW, (Reuters) Sprinter Krystsina Tsimanouskaya, who was removed from the Tokyo Olympics by the Belarusian team after she criticised her coaches, is auctioning a medal from the 2019 European Games to support athletes who say they have been targeted by authorities.

Belarusian team officials took the 24-year-old to Tokyo's Haneda airport against her wishes on Aug. 1, a day before she had been set to

run the 200m.

She refused to board the flight home and has since sought refuge in Poland, fearing for her safety if she returned to Belarus.

Tsimanouskaya told Reuters the reason she had been removed from the team was her public criticism of "the negligence of our coaches."

She said she had been entered in the 4x400m relay without her knowledge after some team members were found to be ineligible to compete because they

had not undergone enough doping tests.

The Belarusian Sport Solidarity Foundation, a group that supports athletes jailed or sidelined for their political views, said on Monday the medal was being auctioned at Tsimanouskaya's request in support of Belarusian athletes "who suffered from the actions of Lukashenko's regime."

As of Monday morning, bids for the medal had reached $5,200 on eBay. President Alexander Lu-

kashenko has been accused of orchestrating an unprecedented crackdown on demonstrators and opposition figures in the wake of a presidential election held a year ago that critics and observers say was rigged. He denies electoral fraud.

The crackdown has affected elite athletes, some of whom have been jailed for joining street protests.

In a statement carried by the foundation, Tsimanouskaya said the silver medal she won in the team relay at

the 2019 European Games in the Belarusian capital Minsk carried special meaning.

Those competitions were extremely important for me as they were held at the home arena," she said. "Lots of people, including my family and relatives, came to cheer for me."

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Friday ordered two Belarusian officials - athletics head coach Yuri Moisevich and team official Artur Shumak - to have their accreditation

revoked and be removed from the Games.

The Belarusian Olympic Committee has said coaches withdrew Tsimanouskaya from the Tokyo Olympics on doctors' advice about her emotional and psychological state.

In an exclusive interview with Reuters in Warsaw on Thursday, Tsimanouskaya said the two officials had told her the order to send her home came from "high up" in Belarus.

25

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Kiwis name squad for T20 World Cup; Ross Taylor and Colin de Grandhomme excluded

…squads also named for white-ball series in Bangladesh, Pakistan and India VETERAN batsman, Ross Taylor, has not been named in the 15-member New Zealand squad led

by Kane Williamson for the T20 World Cup, to be played in UAE and Oman from October 17.

All-rounder Colin de Grandhomme has also been left out from the squad named by New Zealand Cricket on Monday .

Taylor, has not played for New Zealand in T20Is since November 2020 and his exclusion from the squad signals an end to his career in the shortest format.

Three spinners Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi and Todd Astle have been picked.

The squad also includes four seamers Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson and Kyle Jamieson as well as all-round options in Daryl Mitchell and James Neesham.

Adam Milne has also been named, and will travel to UAE as an injury cover. The same 15-member squad will play in India in the three-match T20I series after the tournament.

New Zealand chief executive David White confirmed that those players involved in the prematurely suspended IPL 2021 would be allowed to re-join their franchises, and complete the competition when it re-starts on September 19 in UAE. “It’s a pragmatic approach,” said Mr White.

“We’ve always tried to be realistic about the IPL and this particular issue is very

India's Kohli elated with 'gold dust' from tailenders NOTTINGHAM, England (Reuters) - A near 50-run haul by India's notoriously brittle batting tail in the first innings of the drawn opening test against England was like "gold dust", Indian captain Virat Kohli said.

Since 2018, India's last three batsmen have had the worst average of all test playing nations.

They made a significant contribution at Trent Bridge in Nottingham, however, where rain washed out the final day's play on Sunday and robbed the match of an exciting finish.

A career-best 28 from Jasprit Bumrah, 13 from

Mohammed Shami and seven not out by Mohammed Siraj helped the tourists to a vital 95-run first innings lead in a low-scoring contest.

"They've been in the nets regularly, wanting to contribute regularly, wanting to contribute to the team," Kohli said of the tailenders' batting exploits after the draw.

"Getting 50-plus runs from those three bowlers was like gold dust for us.

"We'd have been talking about a lead of 40-odd and then we got to a lead of 95 purely because of their efforts."

In comparison, England's last three batsmen twice

made a combined 20 in the series opener.

"Just the grit and determination," Kohli said. "As opposition, when the bowlers get runs it can be annoying. They did a tremendous job with the bat."

With the tailenders giving a good account of themselves, India will be tempted to continue with the same bowling combination of four seamers and a pacer in the remaining four tests against Joe Root's side.

"This looks like the right template for us moving forward," Kohli said.

The second Test is scheduled at Lord's from Thursday.

Smith names four bowlers currently dominating world cricket

Ross Taylor (left) and Colin de Grandhomme

much a one-off, caused by a unique set of circumstances.”

Ahead of the T20 World Cup, New Zealand will play a T20I series against Bangladesh, for which they will depart on August 23. The squad for Bangladesh tour, where they will play five T20Is, will be captained by Tom Latham.

None of the members named in the squad for the India tour and the T20 World Cup will be a part of the Bangladesh tour.

The same squad, apart from Ben Sears, will also play in the three ODIs against Pakistan to follow.

Five players named in the T20 World Cup squad will be part of the T20I series in Pakistan.

New Zealand T20 World Cup squad and India T20Is: Kane Williamson (c), Todd Astle, Trent Boult, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Tim Sei-

fert (wk), Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee.

Coaching Staff: Gary Stead, Shane Jurgensen, Luke Ronchi, (fourth coach TBA) New Zealand squad for Bangladesh T20s & Pakistan ODIs: Tom Latham (c) (wk), Finn Allen, Hamish Bennett, Tom Blundell (wk), Doug Bracewell, Colin de Grandhomme, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry (ODI only), Scott Kuggeleijn, Cole McConchie, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Rachin Ravindra, Ben Sears (T20 only), Blair Tickner, Will Young Coaching Staff: Glenn Pocknall, Graeme Aldridge, Tilan Samaraweera New Zealand squad for Pakistan T20Is: Tom Latham (c) (wk), Finn Allen, Todd Astle, Hamish Bennett, Tom Blundell (wk), Mark Chapman, Colin de Grandhomme, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Ajaz Patel, Ish Sodhi, Ben Sears, Blair Tickner, Will Young.

James Anderson

Kagiso Rabada

STEVE Smith is indeed one of the finest batters going around and his record across formats is nothing but phenomenal.

He tormented many prominent bowling lineups in his illustrious career and scored runs all over the globe. From playing marathon knocks in Test matches to scoring quick-fire cameos in T20s, there’s arguably nothing which Smith can’t do with the bat in hand.

He, in fact, is the fastest batter to score 7,000 Test runs.

Not many bowlers around the world would enjoy tackling a batter of Smith’s caliber.

However, there are also few names whom the Aussie star found challenging. In fact, there are four.

Smith called them four of the best bowlers going around. Interestingly, all the four names Smith took happens to be fast bowlers. Anderson has certainly aged like wine and only seems to get

better with time.

As mentioned by Smith as well, the England pacer recently surpassed Anil Kumble’s tally of 619 international wickets to become the third-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket.

Although Smith and Cummins are comrades, it seems like the top-ranked Test bowler gives Smith a tough time in the net sessions. As far as Bumrah and Rabada are concerned, the duo has every weapon in their arsenal to trouble the best of bowlers.

Hence, not many eyebrows were raised when Smith revealed his lot of best bowlers going around.

Meanwhile, the 31-yearold has been out of action for a while due to his elbow injury. He was last seen in the now-postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 where he played just six matches for Delhi Capitals. His elbow issues seemed to have deteriorated during the course of the

Pat Cummins

Jasprit Bumrah

tournament and he underwent surgery subsequently.

With the T20 World Cup 2021 being just a couple of months away, Aussie fans would want Smith to get fit before the global tournament. However, only time could tell when the star batsman will make a comeback over the 22 yards. (CricTracker)

26

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Root coping well with pressure - Chris Silverwood JOE Root is "coping well" with the pressure of captaining England and leading the batting line-up, says head coach Chris Silverwood.

Root made 64 and a superb 109 in the drawn opening Test against India at Trent Bridge, while no other England player managed more than 32.

Root has 1,064 Test runs this year, with Dan Lawrence the next best on 354.

"We need to make sure that the guys batting around him are coming to the party as well," said Silverwood.

"They need to take the pressure off him.

"It's my job to help him behind the scenes, take the pressure off and allow him to concentrate on his cricket on the pitch."

Four days before the game Ben Stokes, England's key all-rounder and Root's vice-captain, withdrew from the series for mental health reasons. During the match England also confirmed pace bowler Jofra Archer will not play again this year because

of an elbow injury.

Root's fluent century helped England recover from 46-2 in the second innings trailing by 49 - to post 303 and set India 209 to win.

The tourists reached 52-1 but rain prevented any play on the final day on Sunday.

"The fact is there's a lot going on," said Silverwood.

"To do what Joe did in that Test match was phenomenal.

"It was one of the finest hundreds he's scored, to give us a fighting chance. It shows that he's coping well."

England openers Rory Burns and Dom Sibley average 31.40 and 21.56 respectively this year and number three Zak Crawley 11.14.

The have managed one century between them in 42 innings.

"We have to address the fact and accept we're not getting those runs," said Silverwood.

"Questions have been posed to them - and the question has been posed to the batting coaches.

"We need to do something. Ultimately, if it isn't

working I have to take a view as to why it isn't working and how do I change that."

Haseeb Hameed, who played three Tests in 2016, could be recalled for the second Test, which starts on Thursday at Lord's.

The 24-year-old made 112 for a County Select XI in India's only tour game before the opening Test, and averages 45.85 for Nottinghamshire in the County Championship this summer.

"He is making a very strong case," said Silverwood. "He's done everything he possibly can to be ready.

"What he did early season in the Championship shows there's a lot of class there.

"He put his best foot forward in Durham when he scored that hundred - it shows he can cope against this [India] attack.

"At some point we will have to make a decision and give him an opportunity. I'm confident that he's as ready as he could be."

• In Stokes' absence, England selected an all-seam attack at Trent Bridge, the third suc-

Joe Root (left) has led England in 20 of their 21 Tests since Chris Silverwood (right) was appointed head coach in 2019.

cessive home Test this summer in which they have not picked a specialist spinner.

"You take a Ben Stokes out of that squad and it makes it hard to balance. It poses problems for us," said Silverwood.

Although all-rounder Moeen Ali was left out of the

initial squad for the first two Tests, Silverwood said he is "certainly in consideration" for a recall at Lord's.

Moeen has played only one Test since 2019 - against India in Chennai in February - but has scored 130 runs in five innings and taken three wickets for Birming-

ham Phoenix in the inaugural edition of The Hundred.

"We know he is a fine cricketer," said Silverwood.

"He's showing fine form in The Hundred. I appreciate it's a different format, but he's showing us what he can do.

"We have to keep those options open." (BBC Sport)

Double Olympic champion Jacobs shrugs off doping suspicions (REUTERS) - Italy’s double Olympic champion Lamont Marcell Jacobs has insisted he is not bothered by suspicions of doping raised by the media, and that hard work is to thank for his record-breaking exploits in Tokyo.

Jacobs became the first Italian to win 100 metres gold, setting a European record time of 9.80 seconds in the final, and was part of his country’s triumphant 4x100 metres relay team.

The 26-year-old’s performances led to media reports highlighting doping cases

involving breakout stars in athletics, stories Giovanni Malago, the president of the Italian Olympic Committee, described as "unpleasant".

"These controversies do not affect me," Jacobs told Il Messaggero on Monday "I know that I got here by making many sacrifices.

I have been through disappointments and defeats, but I always got back up and rolled my sleeves up.

"If I have reached this point, it is only thanks to hard work. They can write what they want."

Jacobs said on Saturday

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Tuesday August 10, 2021)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Patrick Patterson-6/29 (Nagpur, 1987) (2) Anil Kumble-6/12 (Kolkatta, 1993) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who has captained the WI in most ODI games against IND to date?

(2) Who has led IND in most ODI matches versus the WI to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Italy's 100 metres Olympic champion Lamont Marcell Jacobs poses for a picture as he returns home to Rome at Haneda Airport in Tokyo, Japan, Monday.

REUTERS/Yara Nardi

he had split from his former nutritionist once he heard that Giacomo Spazzini was allegedly being investigated for a connection with performance-enhancing substances.

"This is something that honestly, I am not involved with, because from the very first moment we heard about this thing that happened, we

stopped working with him," Jacobs said Aug 9 (Reuters) - Italy’s double Olympic champion Lamont Marcell Jacobs has insisted he is not bothered by suspicions of doping raised by the media, and that hard work is to thank for his record-breaking exploits in Tokyo.

Jacobs became the first Italian to win 100 metres gold, setting a European record time of 9.80 seconds in the final, and was part of his country’s triumphant 4x100 metres relay team.

The 26-year-old’s performances led to media reports highlighting doping cases involving breakout stars in athletics, stories Giovanni Malago, the president of the Italian Olympic Committee, described as "unpleasant".

"These controversies do not affect me," Jacobs told Il Messaggero on Monday.

"I know that I got here by making many sacrifices.

I have been through disappointments and defeats, but I always got back up and rolled my sleeves up.

"If I have reached this point, it is only thanks to

hard work. They can write what they want."

Jacobs said on Saturday he had split from his former nutritionist once he heard that Giacomo Spazzini was allegedly being investigated for a connection with performance-enhancing sub-

stances.

"This is something that honestly, I am not involved with, because from the very first moment we heard about this thing that happened, we stopped working with him," Jacobs said.

More problems for Barca as Aguero ruled out for 10 weeks BARCELONA (Reuters) - Barcelona striker Sergio Aguero has been ruled out of action for 10 weeks, the club said on Monday, deepening the Catalans' troubles ahead of the new season following Lionel Messi's shock departure.

Aguero, a close friend of Messi and his international team mate with Argentina, joined Barca as a free agent in June after 10 years with Manchester City.

Barca's statement said Aguero, 33, had injured a tendon in his right calf muscle and would be out for around 10 weeks, meaning he will not make his debut until Oct. 17 at the

earliest, when they host Valencia in La Liga.

Aguero's problem comes after a final season with City blighted by injuries, limiting him to only seven Premier League starts.

Barcelona Ronald Koeman is now short of striking options for his team's opening league game against Real Sociedad on Sunday, with Martin Braithwaite, Antoine Griezmann and Memphis Depay his only available forwards.

Messi is reportedly finalising a move to Paris St Germain a day after his teary farewell from Barca, who could not afford to sign him to a new contract.

27

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Flying the Olympic flag, Paris looks beyond COVID for 2024 games

Aussies bowled out for 62 ‒ their lowest T20 total in 4-1 series defeat Australia were bowled out for 62 - their lowest Twenty20 score - as they slipped to a 60-run and 4-1 series loss against Bangladesh in Mirpur.

The tourists were all out in 13.4 overs - their shortest innings in 144 years - with only stand-in captain Matthew Wade and Ben McDermott passing four.

In claiming 4-9, Bangladesh's Shakib Al Hasan became the first player to take 100 wickets and score 1,000 T20 runs.

The Tigers had never beaten Australia in a T20 before this five-game series.

Bangladesh made 1228 from 20 overs, with opener Mohammad Naim scoring 23.

Australia hit only three sixes - and no fours - in their woeful chase.

They were without captain Aaron Finch and fellow batters David Warner, Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell for the series.

The T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates and Oman is scheduled to start on 17 October.(BBC Sport).

Sandals gifts all Caribbean Olympians complimentary vacations

French Olympic medallists arrive with the Olympic flag in Paris.

By Richard Lough PARIS (Reuters) - France rolled out the red carpet for the Olympic flag on Monday, with the host of the next 2024 Summer Games promising to make the sporting spectacle open to the masses after a pandemic-hit Tokyo Games held behind closed doors.

Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo waved the flag which she was handed in Tokyo during the handover ceremony as she stepped out of the aircraft bringing home some of the country's last athletes.

The 2024 games would be "something very positive for our country. They come at a good moment," Hidalgo told reporters.

Paris she said had learned many lessons from Tokyo's experience.

Delayed by a year and upended by strict COVID-19 countermeasures as contagious variants surged back around the world, the 2020 Games fell short of the triumph and financial windfall

Japan had wanted.

At Sunday's handover ceremony, Paris sought to change the tone. Several thousand sports fans thronged a fan zone in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower, whooping and cheering as some Tokyo medalists bounced onstage to a backtrack of blaring rock music.

"We want to find ways to open the games to the people," Paris Games chief Tony Estanguet said on Friday.

"Our focus is on taking sport out of the traditional spaces and putting competition at the heart of the city’s most famous landmarks," Estanguet, a three-time Olympic canoe champion, added.

Bringing the games closer to the people will pose security challenges in a country that has suffered waves of attacks at the hands of Islamist militants or jihadist-inspired assailants in recent years. More than 250 people have been killed.

In a nod to breaking with an old made-for-TV format,

organisers of the Paris 2024 games have for the past year been working on taking the opening ceremony out of the Olympic stadium and into the heart of Paris.

For the first time, amateur runners will participate in the marathon, road-biking enthusiasts will cycle the course soon after the Olympians and sailing enthusiasts may be able to do battle in real-time with their sporting heroes.

"We need to balance the tradition of the Olympics with creativity and innovation," Estanguet has said.

No-one knows if the world will have conquered the pandemic in three years time. Estanguet told Reuters in February that Paris 2024 was working on its own contingency plans.

Already not everything has gone Paris' way. The city's bid to fly a giant flag from the Eiffel Tower and set a first world record for the 2024 Games was thwarted on Sunday by the wind.

Olympics 110-metre hurdles champion Hansle Parchment (right) is welcomed to the AC Hotel in Kingston, Jamaica on Sunday by Sandals Resorts International Executive Chairman Adam Stewart. At centre is Minister of Sports Olivia “Babsy” Grange. (Jamaica Observer picture)

ALMOST 100 Olympians from the Caribbean islands where Sandals Resorts International operates have been gifted complimentary vacation stays by the company's Executive Chairman Adam Stewart in recognition of their valiant efforts at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

“Olympians who medalled in the just-concluded staging of the games will each receive one complimentary, no limit on nights stay in the highest room category at any Sandals or Beaches resort across the region, complete with luxury BMW transfers from their home, if applicable, to the resort of choice,” the award-winning, all-inclusive luxury resort group said in a news release .

“In addition, all athletes who represented their country in the Olympics in any event will receive luxury-in-

cluded four-night vacations at a Sandals Resort in their home island. The contingent from St Vincent will enjoy their vacation at a resort in St Lucia, since the highly anticipated Beaches St Vincent is not yet open,” Sandals added.

Stewart, who is also executive chairman of the Jamaica Observer, first took to social media to reward Jamaica's gold medal-winning trio of Elaine Thompson-Herah, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Shericka Jackson, for their clean sweep of the women's 100m finals, declaring, “The world's best deserve the world's best vacations!”

He later extended similar complimentary, no-limit stays to all subsequent medal winners from Jamaica, The Bahamas and Grenada, and is now further extending the offer to all Tokyo Olympics athletes from Jamaica, Grenada, The Bahamas, Barbados, St Lucia, St Vincent, and

Antigua.

Commenting on the teams' exceptional accomplishments to make it to the Olympics and to stand on the podium, Stewart said, “It takes a great amount of sacrifice, hard work, dedication and consistency to even make it to the Olympics. Our Caribbean athletes have shown admirable grit, tenacity, and a fighting spirit, and as a Caribbean brand entirely committed to the development of the region and showcasing our regional talent, we are beyond proud of every single athlete who went out there to represent their country.”

He added: “I've been saying it throughout the Games and I will continue to say it, 'The world's best deserve the world's best,' and we cannot wait to roll out our red carpet for all our Olympians when their schedules allow.” (Jamaica Observer)

(Seated L-R) - Head of Refereeing, Dion Inniss, GFF president Wayne Forde and Concacaf Elite Assessor and Head of Refereeing for The Bahamas Football Association, Dianne Ferreira-James following the conclusion of the Federation's Referees event.

GFF referees ramp up preparations for return to play with Concacaf seminar

PAGE

23

Johnson pleads with thieves Brooks, Holder return; no 23 to return Golden Arrow of place for Gabriel and Bravo Achievement (A.A) medal Windies name provisional 17-man squad for two-Test series against Pakistan

PAGE

Chemar Holder replaces seasoned speedster, Shannon Gabriel.

KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC) – Batsman Shamarh Brooks has been recalled along with rookie fast bowler, Chemar Holder, in a provisional 17-man squad for the two-Test series against Pakistan starting here Thursday.

Neither Brooks, 32, nor Holder, 23, have played since the two-Test tour of New Zealand last December.

However, Brooks hit a hundred in a warm-up match here last weekend while

Holder picked up three wickets, to make an impressive return from injury.

More significantly, Holder replaces seasoned speedster, Shannon Gabriel, who has been left out of the squad to focus on improving his fitness.

Gabriel joins experienced left-hander, Darren Bravo, who has also been given time off due to an extended period within the bio-secure “bubble of the West Indies camp.

TURN TO PAGE 23 ►

LEON Johnson, captain ing to the national crickof the Guyana Jaguars et captain, his wife had Cricket team, is urging framed his National Award the thieves that broke into and had it on the wall of his Farm, East Bank Detheir home. merara home sometime Johnson said while he Sunday evening, to recan replace the money and turn his Golden Arrow of some of the other missing Achievement (A.A) Naitems with time, his Golden tional Award.

Arrow of Achievement In 2019, Johnson was National Award is immeabestowed with the Goldsurable. en Arrow of Achievement Johnson led Guyana by former President, David to five consecutive West Granger.

Indies Professional Cricket The former West Indies League (PCL) RegionU19 World Cup captain exal Four-day titles before plained to Chronicle Sport Guyana Jaguars captain, surrendering the trophy to that he left his home Sunday Leon Johnson Barbados last year. around 3:00pm for a get-toThe Golden Arrow gether since it was his 34th Birth Anniversary. of Achievement (A.A.) is the fourth highest However, Johnson said he was in surprised award in the Order of Service of Guyana after noticing the lights in his home being on and is awarded to any citizen of Guyana upon his return, since he was certain that he who has performed an outstanding and turned them off before he left. specific act of service or achievement of After taking some time to enter his prem- an exceptional nature, or is given for long ises, Johnson said he noticed his house ‘ran- and dedicated service of a consistently high sacked’. He said his safe, which contained cash, standard in responsible offices, local governjewellery and other valuable items, was gone. ment services, social and voluntary services, Johnson related that he noticed that his industry or trade unions, or in any other Gold Medal (A.A) was also missing. Accord- area of public service.

Flying the Olympic flag, Paris looks beyond COVID for 2024 games 27 PAGE

Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

TUESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2021