Issuu

MONDAY 26th July, 2021

' No.106429

$14B being spent –– to make new housing schemes accessible

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1,000 house lots expected to be allocated today, tomorrow 08 PAGE

The ‘big tent’ that will host the ‘Dream Realised’ exercise today at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara

Mabaruma SMART Payments for contractors hospital ‘eyes’ 12 on hold due to incomplete August completion work at Plegt Anker 09 PAGE

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80 jobs for Region 10 17 PAGE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 26, 2021

$14B being spent to make new housing schemes accessible By Rehana Ahamad

THE Ministry of Housing and Water is currently executing a series of infrastructural works totalling $14 billion, according to subject minister, Collin Croal. In a brief interview with the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday, the minister explained that the works were mainly being executed as a means of enhancing about 18 to 22 new and existing housing schemes across the country. He said that the scope of works included the construction, and in some cases, the rehabilitation of roads, bridges and drainage infrastructure, as well as the installation of facilities to accommodate utility services such as water and electricity. “It is an ongoing process,” the minister noted He said, too, that the ministry has been placing particular emphasis on ensuring that all new and upcoming housing schemes are accessible and outfitted with the requisite amenities for new land owners to commence construction of

their homes. The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government had complained that, even though the previous A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) administration did distribute some house lots, those could not be accessed due to poor preparatory works that caused many of the schemes to become inaccessible. When the PPP/C government assumed office in August 2020, it pledged to open up a number of new housing developments to ensure that more Guyanese are able to own their own homes. The areas currently being developed include Little Diamond/ Great Diamond, Prospect and Providence, on the East Bank Demerara, as well as a massive “opening up” of the Cummings Lodge housing scheme on the outskirts of Georgetown, as well as the expansion of several East Coast Demerara communities, namely Mon Repos, Vigilance, Bladen Hall and Strathspey, along with Experiment in Region

Five and No. 79 Village, Ordinance Fortland and Hampshire/Williamsburg in Region Six. The ongoing developments within the housing sector are components of what has been described as one of the largest investments in the housing sector in just one year, with thousands of house lots already being distributed. Access to adequate housing has long been viewed as a basic human right, and is considered an integral factor for the enjoyment of other economic, social and cultural rights. And, with Guyana’s economy poised to quadruple in the coming years, the government has started establishing the conditions for Guyanese, especially from the low and middle-income brackets, to have access to adequate housing. As a matter of fact, some 50,000 house lots are expected to be distributed over the next five years, averaging 10,000 house lots per year. In addition to developing the housing schemes, Croal also emphasised the government’s efforts to ensure

adequate interconnecting road networks. He made specific reference to the ongoing construction of the Eccles to Mandela four-lane road, which is slated for a November 2o21 completion. “That is ongoing, we also have a bridge that is being constructed for the Mocha access road from Herstelling [East Bank Demerara],” minister Croal noted. He said that once the new roadways are opened up, Guyanese will benefit from a number of alternative routes that connect communities and regions. President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, had also emphasised the need for modernised roadways, particularly along the East Bank Demerara thoroughfare and “super highway” leading to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA). The Head of State even went as far as to propose the erection of technologically-outfitted police towers as an innovative means of monitoring and maintaining law and order along the roadways, “We will have tower-to-tower connection, so if someone is speeding at tower one, that person would

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal be caught on camera and can be stopped by police at tower two. We need to look at smarter, safer and more modern ways going forward,” the President previously insisted. Dr. Ali, himself a former Housing Minister, had underscored the need for road networks to be created as a means of alleviating traffic congestion that currently plague

An artist’s impression of the Eccles to Mandela Avenue four-lane road

most of the main carriageways. The construction of a new, state-of-theart Demerara River Crossing will also add to those efforts, owing to a free flow of traffic that would derive from a bigger bridge, and several of the new interconnecting roads to which it would be linked.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 26, 2021

Man who mocked COVID-19 vaccines dies of virus

Monday July 26, 2021 04:00hrs - 05:30hrs

A California man who mocked COVID-19 vaccines on social media has died after a month-long battle with the virus. Stephen Harmon, a member of the Hillsong megachurch, had been a vocal opponent of vaccines, making a series of jokes about not having the vaccine. “Got 99 problems but a vax ain’t one,” the 34-yearold tweeted to his 7,000 followers in June. He was treated for pneumonia and COVID-19 in a hospital outside Los Angeles, where he died on Wednesday. In the days leading up to his death, Harmon documented his fight to stay alive, posting pictures of himself in his hospital bed. “Please pray y’all, they

Stephen Harmon documented his battle with Covid-19 (BBC photo) really want to intubate me jabbed, saying his religious and put me on a ventilator,” faith would protect him. he said. Prior to his death, had In his final tweet on joked about the pandemic Wednesday, Harmon said and vaccines, sharing mehe had decided to go under mes saying he trusted the intubation. Bible over top US disease “Don’t know when I’ll expert Dr Anthony Fauci. wake up, please pray,” he Hillsong founder Brian wrote. Houston confirmed news Despite his struggle of his death in a tweet on with the virus, Harmon still Thursday. said he would reject being “Ben has just passed on

to us the devastating news that our beloved friend, Stephen Harmon has passed away from COVID. Heartbreaking,” Houston said. In an Instagram post, he paid tribute to Harmon. “He was one of the most generous people I know and he had so much in front of him,” he wrote on Instagram. “He would always turn up to our grandkids soccer games and he will be missed by so many. RIP.” He added that the church encourages its members “to follow the guidance of their doctors”. California has seen a rise in COVID-19 cases in recent weeks, with the majority of those being taken to hospital unvaccinated. (BBC)

Fauci says US going in wrong direction with COVID THE US is heading “in the wrong direction” on the coronavirus pandemic as infections surge among the unvaccinated, a top health expert has warned. Dr Anthony Fauci said the Delta variant of COVID-19 was driving the spike in areas with low vaccination rates. He said health officials were considering revising mask guidance for vaccinated Americans to curb cases. Offering booster jabs to vulnerable people was also under review, he said. The coronavirus situation in the US is becoming “a pandemic among the unvaccinated”, Dr Fauci, the chief medical adviser to US President Joe Biden, told broadcaster CNN on Sunday. The US had been a world leader in jab uptake until April, when vaccination rates

started to drop off. Vaccination rates are particularly low in southern states, where fewer than half of residents have received their first dose in some cases. Meanwhile, daily coronavirus infections are on the rise again after numbers fell in May and June. The resurgence has added to the more than 34 million cases and 610,000 deaths recorded so far in the US. The trend has been attributed, in part, to the rapid spread of the highly transmissible Delta variant of COVID. The sharpest increases in COVID cases are in states with lower vaccination rates, such as Florida, Texas and Missouri. Earlier this week, US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy said 99.5 per cent of COVID deaths were occur-

ring among unvaccinated people. In his interview with CNN, Dr Fauci said local leaders in areas with low vaccination rates needed to do more to encourage people to get jabbed. He said he was “very heartened to hear” the Republican governors of Arkansas and Florida promoting vaccinations in their states. Both leaders have been critical of Dr Fauci’s advice in the past. As the nation’s top infectious disease expert, Dr Fauci has been a key adviser to President Biden and his predecessor, Donald Trump, through the pandemic. Dr Fauci said he was involved in discussions to change mask guidance issued by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Dr Anthony Fauci said he was frustrated by the slump in vaccine uptake (BBC photo) As it stands, the CDC says people who are fully vaccinated can “resume activities that you did before the pandemic without wearing a mask”. Dr Fauci said local governments could issue their own rules under the current CDC guidance. But he noted that some local governments had reinstated indoor and public mask requirements to curb rising infections. In Los Angeles County, masks are now required indoors for both vaccinated and unvaccinated people. (BBC)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 26, 2021

TT Deyalsingh to leaders: Tell your flocks to get COVID-19 vaccine now HEALTH Minister, Terrence Deyalsingh has called on all politicians and anyone who holds leadership positions to encourage their followers to get vaccinated against the coronavirus. To people who “have influence” over people, Deyalsingh urged: “Tell your flocks, tell your followers to come and get vaccinated now. It is the right thing to do, and the time is now. How many more must die when we have a solution?” He spoke on Sunday at the mass vaccination site at the Centrum Auditorium at Centre Pointe Mall in Chaguanas. The ongoing drive is a public-private partnership with the Health Ministry and the Supermarket Association of TT (SATT). “If not vaccine to save your life, then what? If not vaccine to reopen the economy, then what? Take it now because it will save your life. It will help you put food on the table. It will help you pay your rent,” Deyalsingh said. “How many of you want to have a third year of no Easter? How many of you want the third year of no Divali, no Eid, no Christmas, no wedding, anniversary or birthday parties? Those are the simple things that we miss.” The minister said his heart was overflowing with gratitude to SATT’s President Rajiv Diptee. SATT was the first private organisation to partner with the government for the mass vaccination

drive. Diptee said that by the end of the week, 50,000 people are expected to get their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine from the drive which started a few weeks ago. Initially, the drive catered only for association members. But it was expanded to include “anyone who wants to get vaccinated”. Diptee thanked everyone who participated and volunteered, including the management and staff of the mall. He estimated that a minimum of 2,000 people got vaccinated per day at this site. Diptee said the vaccine is the only real solution against COVID-19. “We want the country to get back to some level of normalcy. We don’t want to live in fear anymore. At this site, we have been able to do so much. We are happy to play a part in the national effort,” Diptee said. Deyalsingh and Diptee joined with the medical director at the site Dr Safeeya Mohammed to watch the process and speak with patients. CEO of Massy Stores Roxane de Freitas and President of the Greater San Fernando Chamber Kiran Singh were also present. Many people Joniah Valere of Sangre Grande and Maria Fernanda Fuentes Luna of Princes Town complimented the organisers for being well organised. (Trinidad and Tobago Newsday)

People wait to get vaccinated on Sunday (Trinidad and Tobago Newsday photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 26, 2021

Tajeram Mohabir

The Tokyo Olympics

THE 2021 Olympics is currently taking place in Tokyo, Japan. It was originally scheduled to be held from July 24 to August 9, 2020, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic it was rescheduled and is currently being held behind closed doors with no spectators allowed under the host country’s emergency laws. This is the first time the Olympic games have been postponed and rescheduled in its long and eventful history. And even though the origins of the Olympics can be traced way back to Greece since 776 BC, it was not until 1896 that the first modern Olympic games were held in Athens, Greece. Without a doubt, it continues to be the single largest sporting event in the world. Guyana, like so many other nations, is currently participating in the Olympic Games. This is not the first time that the country is taking part in the games. This is the 18th time the

country has participated as an independent nation, although it was previously represented under the name British Guiana. In fact, Guyana first appeared in the Olympic Games in 1948 in London under colonial status, but as a fullfledged, independent nation in 1968 at the Games in Mexico. As a relatively small nation, we have not done badly over the decades. Boxer Michael Anthony Parris was the first and so far the only athlete from Guyana to win an Olympic medal. He was awarded the bronze in the bantamweight division at the 1980 Games in Moscow. Others who have also done well included Jennifer Inniss, who was placed 13th in the women’s long jump at the Olympics Games in 1980 and 1984, and triple jumper Troy Doris who reached the men’s final at the Rio Games in 2016. More recently, Aliann Pompey excelled in the 400m in several consecutive Games, her best performance of which was in the

2008 Games in Beijing, where she was ranked among the top 10. Winning an Olympic medal can be quite daunting, given the highly competitive nature of the games. Of the 206 countries and territories that participated in the games over the years, there are 72 countries that are still to win a medal at the Olympics. No one can downplay the value of an Olympic medal in terms of fame, glory and prestige, both to the athletes and the nations they represent. But when seen from a broader perspective, it is not so much the fact of winning or losing that matters, but the spirit of the games that really counts. The mere fact of participating in the games is already emotionally satisfying, rubbing shoulders with participants from all over the world. The motto of this year’s games, “United by Emotions,” captures the sentiments and mood of people all across the globe. Indeed, the games offer that unique

opportunity to bring nations and peoples together in an environment of cordiality and friendship and in a deeply profound way. Guyana is participating in seven disciplines, namely athletics, boxing, swimming and table-tennis. And even though the country has not as yet picked up any medals, its showing in the games so far has been nothing short of impressive. They have all represented us with pride and dignity and not surprisingly Guyana was named among the best-dressed nations at the opening ceremonial parade. The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the Guyana Olympics Committee must be commended for putting together a good team to represent us. Special commendations are in order for Table Tennis star Chelsea Edghill and Boxer Keevin Alicock for their spirited and impressive performances. They have indeed made us all proud.

Lowenfield, Mayers and Mingo must go Dear Editor, THE nation is currently healing from the irregularities and woes of the General and Regional Elections (GREs) 2020. The GRE 2020 lasted a dreary five months and even before those five months, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) had several run-ins with the laws and constitutional appointments. It has now been almost one year since GREs 2020 and we are still seeing the same antics from the opposition commissioners in their defence for the CEO, Mr. Lowenfield; DCEO, Ms. Mayers and RO, Mr. Mingo (the “inside men”). The most recent behaviour of the APNU commissioners doesn’t come as

a surprise. A motion to remove the CEO, DCEO and RO was tabled about nine weeks from this date, the 1st of June, 2021 to be exact. The debates for and against the motion were set for June 15, 2021; however, the three magicians from the opposition performed their infamous disappearance act and of course, a quorum wasn’t met. This magical act quickly became very predictable and annoying at the same time. The “inside men” were finally sent on leave on the 22nd of June as attempts to debate the motions continue. Laughably, Mr. CEO clutched at straws and filed his own court action to restrain two PPP commissioners from participating in the debates they initiated to have him and colleagues removed. Another virtual meeting was called on

the 21st July (months after) in an attempt to debate the motion and vote and as you can predict, the APNU commissioners “walked out” and refused to participate. The United Republican Party (URP) remains a party for the people and more so for justice to be dealt out fairly. We are encouraging the GECOM body to remain committed to pursuing the dismissal of the CEO, DCEO, and RO. The URP also encourages the APNU commissioners to desist from delay tactics as it only makes your collection seem weak in the eyes of people, locally and internationally. We would like to see maturity in handling this process, therefore we call on you to face the music and more so embrace the facts on the failed rigging attempts on the GREs 2020. Stop

trying to justify the actions of the three “inside men.” The United Republican Party extends best health and strength to the chairperson of GECOM, Justice Claudette Singh. We expect another no-show from the APNU commissioners at the next meeting, hence the next procedure we anticipate is to adjourn the meeting and let the motion for dismissal pass. GECOM must keep moving forward and prepare for Local Government Elections under your leadership Madam chairwoman. We thank you for your leadership from then and now. Dr. Josh Kanhai Chairman United Republican Party (URP)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 26, 2021

Berbicians praise NIS outreaches – numerous cases dealt with on the spot

By Nafeeza Yahya

SENIOR Minister with Responsibility for Finance in the Office of the President, Dr. Ashni Singh, continued his outreach to the Ancient County of Berbice, on Sunday, when he met with scores of persons to address issues concerning the National Insurance Scheme (NIS). The two-day visit commenced on Saturday at the University of Guyana’s Tain Campus to cater for residents in the Central Corentyne area and continued the following day at the NIS Corriverton office for citizens on the Upper Corentyne. The minister will return to Berbice on Wednesday where he will meet residents at the Regional Democratic Office (RDC) in New Amsterdam. Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday, Dr. Singh explained that the outreaches are a part of the government’s broader effort to improve the quality of service provided by public institutions and

to ensure they are more citizen-friendly and more accessible to the people they are expected to serve. Noting that NIS issues oftentimes dominate government outreaches, he said that after taking office last year, there were some 14,000 cases that were pending at the NIS that had to be addressed immediately. The institution managed to reduce this figure to 3000, he said. “We are hoping to address the stock of issues that we inherited. When we came into government and a new board was appointed there was a stock of about 14,000 pending claims. At the first meeting I had, I instructed the board to immediately work to reduce all of these pending issues and we were able to get it to 3000 which is still a lot, but much less than before. So, essentially we have addressed and concluded 11,000 pending matters. There were lots of issues about late processing of life certificates…there was a stock of 3000 received and processed [and] we

Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance, Dr.Ashni Singh; Region Six Regional Chairman, David Armogan, and a NIS employee examine a document that was submitted by Crabwood Creek resident, Vasco Jardene have now eliminated that out the entire inherited residents met with the expect… Minister Singh to zero because we want stock of pending matters minister and his team would have been here people to get their pen- and be seen as an insti- and 40 of them were able on the ground. I thought sion on time,” the senior tution that is friendly to to have their matters re- it was going to be [the] minister told the Guyana its contributors and pen- solved on the spot. Dr. social work minister or Chronicle. sioners. Singh has given a specific someone else but I am He said despite the T h e m i n i s t e r e x - timeline for the remain- happy he is here and in progress made, there are pressed optimism that ing 20 to be resolved, the fields to address the still many more issues to with the efforts being much to the delight of the concerns of the people,” be addressed. made during the out- residents. he said. According to him, the reaches, this goal can be Meanwhile, Vasco JarWazir Hussain, a aim is to get to a point soon realised. dene of Crabwood Creek former Skeldon Estate where the NIS can clear On Saturday, over 60 was all smiles on Sun- worker expressed similar day as he had his issues sentiments after he was with contributions dealt told to follow-up with with. He explained that the staff at the Skeldon he made contributions to office regarding his conqualify for pension many tributions. years ago and received “I am pleased with documentation to confirm how my matter was dealt such. However, when he with by the Minister. reached the age of retireI am impressed with ment, he was told that he the service that they did not qualify. brought out here. I feel He related that he has proud and it prove to been back and forth for the people that they are the past 12 years despite doing their work and making over 800 contri- they have come to show butions to the scheme. people the facts and “After about 12 years they are trying to help I think I am finally see- people like us. I respect ing the light at the end that from the minisof the tunnel and I must ter and team them and thank the minister and the hopefully I get through government. The min- with my contributions,” ister is doing extremely the 58-year-old man good work and I never said. Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance, Dr.Ashni Singh, listens keenly to the concerns of a resident

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 26, 2021

1,000 house lots expected to be allocated today, tomorrow –– 334 Land Titles, Transports to be distributed By Richard Bhainie

THE Ministry of Housing and Water is expecting approximately 1,000 persons to be beneficiaries of the ‘Dream Realised’ house lot allocation exercise which is scheduled to take place today and tomorrow at the National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD). Speaking to the Guyana Chronicle at the National Stadium, on Sunday, while assisting with preparatory works for the initiative, Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, explained that the beneficiaries will have their dreams realised as a number of low-income lots will be distributed for the area Block XVIII Grove/Diamond, EBD. In addition, Croal told this publication that some 334 Land Titles and Trans-

ports will be available to be uplifted by persons who reside on the East Bank of Demerara. These persons have already been notified. Those persons will have to make the necessary payments and complete the process for the documents to be issued. Beneficiaries of the land allocation exercise are persons who the Ministry of Housing and Water and the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) would have already made contact with and indicated that their plot is available, once they complete the processes and provide the necessary payment for the plot. However, not only will the exercise benefit persons who will be allocated a house lot, but the services provided by the CH&PA, such as applying for a house lot, will also be available at the exercise.

“When the Ministry of Housing has a land activity, a house lot activity, there are thousands of persons who would normally turn up, but the exercise is not a one-stop-shop per se whereby you come with money and you could pay off for your land; it is targeting persons we have in our system that we have contacted,” Croal said. “I know there are persons who use the opportunity if they have queries or concerns. We will facilitate that but do not turn up expecting to be processed for an allocation if you have not been contacted or called,” he added. PRE-SCREENING When persons arrive at the National Stadium there is a pre-screening process at the main gate. Croal explained that while the persons who were contacted would have been informed that they are required to provide the letters, persons who did not obtain theirs would be able to do so at the gate. Persons would then make their way to a waiting area before heading into the main tent where a gamut of services offered by the ministry would be available, separate and apart from the distribution of the lots. This is all in an effort to ensure social distancing and the COVID-19 guidelines are complied with. Cognisant of the large turn-out at these land allocation activities, the ministry has ensured requisite mechanisms are in place in adherence with the COVID-19 Guidelines. There will also be a vaccination site at the event for anyone who is desirous of

stopping by to be administered their ‘COVID-19 jab’. Croal explained that while the backlog of persons who would have applied for a house lot but is yet to receive one goes back for “decades”, the ‘Dream Realised’ activity is geared towards clearing the backlog of applications in the system. He disclosed that the ministry is working “assiduously” to clear the backlog; he also disclosed that the ‘Dream Realised’ initiative has played a major role in helping to clear the backlog. “The last activity we had for an allocation exercise was in Linden, at Amelia’s Ward. We went back into the system so we were able to pull persons primarily prior to 2015 and this is something we try to do based on the availability, how far back or up to what tier we can cut off,” he said. Noteworthy, the minister explained that the ministry is not able to contact some of the persons who constitute the backlog as many of those persons who have migrated, or even changed their contact information. NO REMOVAL However, he asserted “we do not remove you from our system if you have not been contacted, even if you are not able to capture this batch you will not lose the opportunity you will still remain in our database as a pending application.” In addition, the ministry has experienced cases where persons are logged in the system for many years; however, it is not because a lot was not made available to them, but rather because

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal at the National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara, on Sunday while assisting with preparations for the ‘Dream Realised’ exercise which will take place today and tomorrow they choose not to accept the particular lot that was offered to them. “At the end of the day this is an offer, we are making an offer that this is an area we are allocating and we are making an offer for you for the type of land and this is the cost and sometimes you have persons who do not take up the offer, they prefer to wait until something else is available,” Croal said. He notified that there are going to be many more allocation exercises. He explained that since assuming government, the ministry has distributed over 5,200 lots and the process is an ongoing one which is based on the availability of land, coupled with the resources being in place to complete the necessary infrastructure work. “As the lands become available as part of our planning, we will have these activities within the region or in close proximity to where those lands are for example there will be in the upcoming months an allocation exercise on

the East Coast and later in the year in Region Three,” Croal said. A number of representatives from various financial institutions and insurance companies will be at the National Stadium to provide persons with necessary information pertaining to mortgages and home insurances. “This is important as part of our collaboration and information sharing, so potential allottees will have an opportunity to reach out to various booths for the banks and get the information pertaining to interest rates and the information they will need when their time comes for construction,” Croal said. “Persons would be able to engage representatives from the various banks and ask the necessary questions for information they would think they would need to know, as well as the insurance companies cause once you are taking a mortgage then as a compulsory you must have the insurance coverage” he added.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 26, 2021

Contractors’ payments on hold for incomplete work at Plegt Anker –– rehabilitation works on crown dam to commence within a week

AGRICULTURE Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has instructed the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) to withhold payments to contractors who have failed to complete works at Plegt Anker, East Bank Berbice. This decision was made on Saturday after several residents raised concerns about incomplete works that were carried out in the community. They told the minister that only a small percentage of the works were carried out and that when they questioned the contractor, they were told that the conditions were not favourable to complete the works. One farmer who was present at the meeting told the minister that one of the reasons he experienced severe losses during the flooding was because the canal in his area had not been desilted. “One of the things that caused us to suffer during this flood, the northern empolderment within the Ma Retraite Scheme area, that is Belmont Canal; that canal is very silted. A few months ago a contractor went there to execute some works on that canal and another one at Ma Retraite. They did a part. Just the outfall at Belmont and at Ma Retraite, about 200 rods in and then they left. If that canal was excavated during that time we would not have suffered so tremendously, because right now the water is at dam level and still very high in the backland. At the front low, but when you go at the back it is high because the trench silt up,” the farmer explained. SIMILAR ISSUE Another resident who raised a similar issue said the water levels would recede if works are carried out on the canal, a release said. “What caused the most ducking out really, is a tubing they put on the road. With the government’s help we dug a trench but the contractor them go away and leave the trench. He

dig about 200 rods and they clean 200 (rods). They had two hy-macs there. They didn’t use any mats. They had the mats on the road and the trucks came and pick up the mats and carry it away. They were supposed to go 1000 rods. A lot of cattle farmers at the back there and we wish the dam could reach there,” the farmer said. The farmer also said that the Chairman of the NDIA had met with a group of farmers from the area to discuss the works needed. He said that the area in question is swampy and that

late last year and based on those commitments, works were allocated to a number of contractors. Today we are hearing that they only did part of the works and we will deal with that. Contractors should not tender for works that they cannot execute. I instructed the engineer that if these contractors do not complete the works they will not be paid. If they cannot complete the works we will get new contractors to do the works,” Minister Mustapha said. Another farmer who was present at the meeting

A farmer while raising an issue the farmers said that they were willing to wait until the lands were dry for the works to be done. After listening to the concerns raised, Minister Mustapha questioned the regional NDIA engineer about the status of the works. The engineer informed Minister Mustapha that the contractors had indicated that the remaining areas were swampy; hence, the machines could not go into the area to execute the remaining works. HOLD ON PAYMENTS Minister Mustapha then instructed the NDIA to put a hold on payments for works that were incomplete, adding that contractors should not tender for works that they cannot execute. “I made some commitments when I was here

also raised issues with the state of the crown dam. “The conservancy dam at the back, the Belmont Canal is linked to the conservancy dam where a tubing was installed, but the dam needs to be rehabilitated. About three years ago they ended up patching the dam but then that didn’t solve the problem, because when the heavy rain comes, the lower part keeps overtopping and it has big breaches. Right now it has about five breaches there now. When the water comes and cannot pass through the Belmont Canal, it overtops and goes to our side in the farming area,” the farmer said. Minister Mustapha told residents that a machine will be sent to carry out the necessary rehabilitation works on the crown dam. “I want to make one commitment here. Within one week, I will send a

machine here to carry out all the works on the crown dam,” Minister Mustapha told residents. Residents also formed a group comprising representatives from each of the communities in the area. Minister Mustapha tasked the group with consulting with residents from their respective communities on the works needed. A work programme will then be developed so that funds could be made available to execute them, based on what is considered priority.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 26, 2021

Stop blaming children THERE is a song called ‘Stay at Home’ that irks me. It is an old reggae song about a little girl born on the ghetto side of town. She knows every trick in the book and certainly gets around. Then the following line says, ‘She’s been with many men since she was only ten’. Ten-years-old? Wow! What a terrible plight for a young child to endure. I know it is only a song, but I wonder why her guardians failed to protect her? I know I should sing along and enjoy the song too, but I can’t help thinking that someone should be responsible for that ten-year-old child. A little later in the song, the music changes and the lyrics say, ‘your mother is wondering where you are’ etc. Okay, this line means I can safely assume that the mother is the caregiver. Is she responsible for the young girl’s initiation into this seedy lifestyle? She obviously cares about her daughter if she is wondering where she is. But then, just as I think I’ve worked it all out, the next line says, and this is to the girl ‘stay at home, don’t let our mother down, don’t be a run around’. So now I’m perplexed. The song gives the impression that the child consciously chose to ‘be with many men’ running about the place at a tender age, and her mother, the adult, is waiting for the child to stop her wanton behaviour and come home. This is a long-winded introduction to a

poignant fact. Vulnerable children get blamed and often stigmatised for the unfortunate sexual abuse that befalls them, and it is not their fault. There are laws to protect children from abuse, and it is common knowledge that sexual intercourse with children is AGAINST THE LAW, GLOBALLY. In every case of abuse, the onus rests with adults, not children. Adults have a duty of care to keep children safe from all types of harm. Ironically it is also adults who end up abusing them and ruining their childhood. No (ten-year-old) child would choose to be sexually active rather than enjoy a happy childhood with loving parents. The above-mentioned popular song was a hit over 43 years ago and is, no doubt, still played, danced to and enjoyed throughout the Caribbean and elsewhere. Since that time, things have changed. People have learnt much more about child sexual abuse, and the average adult should know the following three things. 1. Child abuse can be prevented. 2. Adults who fail to protect children and those who abuse them must be held accountable. 3. Child abuse happens irrespective of wealth or background; it is not only in the ghetto that child abuse occurs. As adults, we should aim to uphold and defend children’s rights regardless of their ethnic background, religion, race, culture or

social standing. Why? Because they cannot do so for themselves. Children need adults to advocate on their behalf - to encourage them, love them and look out for their best interests. Yet, children are sometimes treated as if their shortcomings are entirely their own doing. Parents seldom own up to their failures or take a quiet moment to sit down and have a one-to-one reflection on their thoughts and actions. Maybe if they took the time and were honest with themselves, they would see their role in influencing or shaping a child. When children are wayward, stubborn, or rude, or entirely out of hand, everyone tends to blame them. The next thing you hear is ‘they deserve some good licks’ or how they ‘gan feel’ because they ‘can’t hear’ they are too ‘hard ears’ etc. But how did the child get that way in the first place? What did those children see, hear, learn and experience, during their formative years? And were not those formative years orchestrated by adults? Parents say, ‘I made my child, but I didn’t make his mind’. They are right, but they made an impact on that mind all the same; in some cases, more than they can imagine. Parents fail children through lack of attention, love and supervision; through lack of foresight, connection and monitoring. Yet, they have the most significant influence on their children’s lives.

The protection of children is not only the responsibility of childcare workers and child protection officers but should be the moral obligation of every adult. They deserve a decent, memorable childhood, with connection, affection and a sense of direction from adults. If we do not nurture our young ones, how else will our nation produce fair-minded, holistic, well-rounded adults for the future? In 2005 another catchy song was launched, which also had people dancing and singing. The line that stood out for me was ‘she bruk out at the age of seven, she strip dancing, and she just eleven’. Oh Lordie! The child ‘bruk out’ all on her own at age seven? And exactly who was she strip dancing for at the age of eleven? Where are the parents? I know it is just a song, but it proves some adults believe children are responsible for their fate and grown-ups are blameless. We must work to set children on the right path in life - to give them opportunities to make something of themselves and to build their resilience and integrity. If you are concerned about the welfare of a child, call the CPA hotline on 227 0979 or write to us at childcaregy@gmail.com A MESSAGE FROM THE CHILDCARE AND PROTECTION AGENCY, MINISTRY OF HUMAN SERVICES AND SOCIAL SECURITY

Region Six records decline in serious crime, increase in traffic offences

COMMANDER of Region Six, Superintendent Jairam Ramlakhan, has reported a decrease in serious crimes but an increase in some categories of traffic offences in the East Berbice-Corentyne division which spans Mara, East Bank Berbice to Orealla, Corentyne River. For the period January 1 to July 22, 2021, six murders, two robberies with violence, 81 breaking and entering and larceny and six burglaries were recorded. There were no reports of robbery with aggravation. The figures recorded reflect an overall decrease in percentage, ranging from 16 to 10,0 when compared with the same period last year. Sixty-two persons were charged for the various offences listed, but just nine were convicted. With respect to traffic offences, fatal accidents de-

ance for domestic violence; the involvement of Cops and Faith; private security firms assisting with patrols; the formation of team policing and resuscitation of the Station Management Committee and the Community Policing Group (CPG). Additionally, there had been several in-house train-

ing exercises to rectify inefficiency, which resulted in an improved performance. “I am happy with the level of performance, and as such, ranks and CPG members are recognised weekly for their outstanding performance. These recognitions act as a motivation,” Commander Ramlakhan said.

Meanwhile, he applauded the historic initiative which allows residents of Orealla/ Siparuta to have access to a driver’s licence. Eleven persons are currently in possession of drivers’ packages, of which two were sponsored by Deputy Commander Hemnauth Sawh.

Region Six Commander Superintendent Jairam Ramlakhan creased by 67 per cent; however, there were significant increases for the other categories. The decrease in serious crimes was announced on the sidelines of the division’s monthly statutory meeting, held at the Central Recre-

ational Hall, Central Police Station in New Amsterdam, where the divisional administrators and other partners were introduced to the media. Ramlakhan emphasised that the decline in crime was due to several face-the-community meetings; zero toler-

Some of the ranks who attended the statutory meeting held recently at the Central Police Station in New Amsterdam

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 26, 2021

WIIN geared at transforming the lives of as many women as possible –– programme being rolled out in phased approach, says Minister Persaud

MINISTER of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud has reassured Guyanese women that the Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) programme is not going anywhere anytime soon and will continue as long as needed to include all those interested. “So if you haven’t yet heard from us, don’t panic,” Minister Persaud said, adding, “WIIN has generated a lot of excitement. Some people haven’t heard from us as yet, but this is not an allin-one rollout; it’s a phased rollout, depending on the courses and locations.” Even so, persons who have not yet received a response after submitting their applications can contact the ministry and also follow its social media platforms

Human Services and Social Security Minister Dr. Vindhya Persaud has recently been taking time out to interact with women and girls all across the country about her WIIN programme to keep abreast on how the Region Six next week. The too worried if others started programme is progressing. online programmes have and they haven’t. The idea WIIN has started in Re- started for Regions Three behind WIIN is that no one gion Four at the Guyana and are being rolled out in will be turned down. For Women’s Leadership Insti- different communities each those people who didn’t tute (GWLI) and other loca- week. manage to make it into the tions, and will be moving to “So people shouldn’t get first phase of WIIN, it will

be continued. We will do WIIN as long as we can to make sure we capture more people who are interested,” Minister Persaud guaranteed. Her advice though, is to, “Commit and see it to the end.” She said: “Don’t start and give up. This is an opportunity not only to have a certificate, but an accredited one. It can help you to really move from a state of dependence to independence. You just have to decide what you want to do with the training.” Just last Friday, 25 women of the Riverview community in Georgetown signed on to the programme. WIIN, a brainchild of Minister Persaud, is available both online and in-person across the country and seeks to provide women and girls with economic bene-

fits, along with an enabling environment to help them boost their self-confidence and individuality. Whether persons are interested in garment construction, ICT, graphic designing, video editing, photography, interior decorating, or child and elderly care; the ministry is moving to cater for major development in the country. WIIN also includes the provision of functional, business, social issues, and legislative literacy, and covers areas in anger management, emotional intelligence, coping mechanisms, as well as information on support systems from the ministry. Each course is followed by an assessment, and the top five students will be eligible for assistance to start up their businesses.

$290M for road upgrades in Region Three RESIDENTS of several communities in Region Three will soon benefit from improved roads following the allocation of just over $290 million for upgrades, according to Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill. Three sections of the New Zeelugt Housing Scheme’s main access road will be upgraded at a cost of $192 mil-

lion; the Naamless to Bendroff road at Parika will be rehabilitated at a cost of $60.5 million and $38M will be sent on Naamryck Access Road to Landing Facility Road. Edghill, who disclosed this information on Saturday to the Guyana Chronicle, stated that these roads have been in a deplorable state for some time and have

negatively impacted residents who use them on a daily basis. Minister Edghill explained that these rehabilitative works will involve the construction of new asphalted concrete roads as a way to modernise the infrastructure and provide a more accessible commute to and from those communities. He said that for years, residents have unavoid-

ably traversed these deplorable roads which have outlived their time. According to the minister, consistent vehicular traffic into and out of the community has destroyed most of the critical links. He noted that for the first phase of the rehabilitative work, the ministry has strategically selected streets which are “main access roads”

due to their high traffic nature and will in the future move to repair the interconnecting roads to provide residents with better commute in and out of the communities. Minister Edghill noted that the government’s vision is to ensure continued advancement and this was the basis for the selection of these roads for rehabilitation. Further, he said the

impending work will significantly improve the standard of living of residents who reside in the targeted communities. “One of the most notable benefits of these and any road upgrades are that it will reduce travel time. Persons can expect to get to and from their destinations more safely and with less hassle,” Minister Edghill stated.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 26, 2021

Mabaruma SMART hospital ‘eyes’ August completion –– as works progress on two surgical theatres, new ICU and more By Rehana Ahamad

THE SMART upgrades on the Mabaruma Hospital in Region One, Barima Waini, are progressing nicely, with works slated to be completed by the end of August 2021, according to Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony. The ‘SMART Hospital’ concept, as previously outlined, refers to a facility that is both safe and ‘green’ in its operations. The upgrades are being done as part of an $835M (US$4.175 million) project, funded by the United Kingdom Department for International Development (DFID); and encompasses four additional hospitals. Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday, Dr. Anthony explained that the project at Mabaruma, estimated to cost approximately US$800,000, will see the refurbished hospital boasting of a spanking new Accident and Emergency Department, a renovated recovery room, a state-ofthe-art Intensive Care Unit (ICU), a refurbished kitchen, a sterilisation room, and, not one, but two surgical theatres, a small and a large one, Dr. Anthony posited. He indicated, too, that once completed, the Mabaruma Hospital will also be outfitted with brand new equipment. Outside of the scope of works of the SMART conversions project, Dr.

Anthony said that the government has also invested in the construction of a new storage bond for the region’s pharmaceuticals. “The actual building has already been completed” and will become operational by next month, the Health Minister noted. Added to that, Minister Anthony said that efforts were being made to ensure that the region not only has an adequate supply of medication and proper facilities, but also enough qualified medical practitioners. To this end, Dr. Anthony said that construction has commenced on new living quarters for doctors who are being sent to work in the region. “Right now, they are doing the foundation for the building,” the Health Minister related. He added that when the construction works are completed, “the Ministry of Health will deploy a surgeon to the region.” As it is, the Mabaruma district has general physicians, but no one specialised to conduct surgeries. Minister Anthony had previously explained that the project to convert the five local hospitals is expected to wrap up by the end of the year. This means that, within the next few months, Guyana will boast of hospitals that are climate-resilient and energy efficient. Already, the Diamond Diagnostic Centre has been completed and recommissioned.

Dr. Anthony said that works on the Leonora Hospital, West Coast Demerara, are being ‘wrapped up’, and could see the hospital soon reopening at full capacity. Once the Leonora Hospital is completed, the Mabaruma Hospital is expected to follow, after which the Lethem Regional Hospital in Region Nine and the Paramakatoi Health Centre in Region Eight will come on stream. When the project concludes, the hospitals will have the requisite infrastructure to guard against flooding, as well as the capacity to garner renewable energy, thereby reducing the reliance on the Guyana Power and Light (GPL); the hospitals would also be conserving all of its resources, including water, as the hospitals will all be able to use rainwater for their day-to-day functions. Dr. Anthony had said that the upgrading of hospitals reduces the public’s reliance on the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation for key services such as surgeries and x-rays. FIGHT AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE Moreover, Dr. Anthony said that the conversions of these local hospitals are directly linked to the government’s fight against climate change, having recognised the detrimental impact that poor environmental practices

have had and continue to have on human health. Dr. Anthony had previously noted that within the next few years, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) will be looking to convert all the health facilities in Guyana. “We have already done the assessment of 89 other health facilities,” the minister posited. Previously, in explaining the importance of the SMART hospital project, Dr. Anthony made specific reference to reports released by the United Nations’ Inter-Governmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), particularly as it relates to the notable rise in global temperatures. “For the last hundred years, the earth’s temperature has increased by 0.75 degrees Celsius and every decade since 1850, we are living in warmer climate,” the minister said, pointing to the consequences of Guyana’s infamous 2005 floods. In a series of articles published in January, the Guyana Chronicle examined a number of adverse effects that climate change is likely to have on local sectors, including sea defence, health and food production, all due to the projected rise in sea levels. As a matter of fact, the IPCC predicts that “global warming will worsen human health conditions, especially in tropical regions”. In countries such as Guyana, an increase in temperature indicates an increase in mosquito pop-

ulation, thereby escalating the risk of a variety of insect-borne infections. “… and those mosquitos would bring with them, a number of different types of disease such as dengue and malaria, and chikungunya, and so forth,” Dr. Anthony related. In addition to vector-borne and water-borne diseases, global warming also paves the way for increased heat waves, which would result in prolonged periods of abnormally high temperatures that can have serious health effects on vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and the sick. “This was already seen during the 2003 heat wave in Europe, which claimed approximately 35,000 lives,” a recent UN Climate Change report indicated. In a previous article, Guyanese Scientist, Dr. Michelle Kalamandeen had told the Guyana Chronicle that climate change has inevitably created the deadly monster that is the novel coronavirus. She explained that three out of every four new infectious diseases in people come from animals. “More specifically, from our wildlife and from the livestock we keep in ever-increasing numbers… if an area becomes too hot or too cold for certain wildlife, they will migrate to new places, where they interact with other animals that they have never encountered before,” Dr. Kalamandeen had explained. She reasoned that this

Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony usually results in humans increasingly sharing the same spaces and vying for the same food as various species of organisms, thereby increasing the risk of transmission of diseases from animals to humans. The Health Minister had also indicated his ministry’s efforts to craft a comprehensive 10-year strategic plan which seeks to examine a plethora of ways that his ministry can respond to climate change. “… and our preparedness in terms of health response to things like pandemics and flooding and so forth… we want to ensure that we build that capacity to respond to [the] effects of climate change, and try to make our systems more climate-resilient,” Dr Anthony asserted.

A sneak-peek into a section of the refurbished Mabaruma Hospital in Region One, Barima Waini (shared by health minister, Dr. Frank Anthony)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 26, 2021

Agatash gets paved road, nursery school for Dagg Point

LOCAL Government and Regional Development Minister, Nigel Dharamlall, on Saturday, visited several project sites in Bartica as part of the government’s commitment to improve people’s lives and the communities countrywide. The Local Government Minister first visited the road construction project at Agatash, an Amerindian village a few kilometers away from Bartica. Minister Dharamlall told the Department of Public Information (DPI) that this is the first time that an asphalt road is being constructed in the village of some 1,500 residents. “Previous to this road being here, everything was dusty; basically, a track for people to traverse. This is the commitment, like I said, that His Excellency, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has made; every street we are now going to convert into asphaltic concrete. The asphaltic concrete makes movement much more possible,” the minister

A double-drum machine flattens the asphalt on the Agatash Road (DPI photo) said. structed. The minister told Regional Executive Offi- DPI that following consultacer of Region Seven, Kerwin tions with the residents, the Ward, pointed out that road government budgeted for the upgrades were underway $29 million school, which throughout Bartica. He added is the first to be built in the that many residents, especial- village. He indicated that the ly those in Agatash, welcome school will accommodate the infrastructural upgrades. 64 children and is slated for Meanwhile, Minister completion in November. Dharamlall also visited the “A lot more resources are site where the Dagg Point going to be retained in the Nursery School is being con- village. The safety and secu-

rity of the children would be enhanced by them remaining close in the village and at home,” Minister Dharamlall said. Constituency representative, Shevon John, expressed her appreciation and excitement for the new school. She pointed out that now that a school would be located within Dagg Point, parents and children would not have to struggle to get transportation to go to school in central Bartica. “A big expense will be lifted off of the parents,” John noted. During Minister Dharamlall’s one-day visit to Bartica, he also met contractors who are spearheading projects in Region Seven. At that meeting, the minister and contractors discussed some of the challenges they face; how best the projects could be implemented and what support the government could provide for their successful completion.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 26, 2021

$30M to start Wismar, Mackenzie waterfront projects

PUBLIC Works Minister, Bishop Juan Edghill, said that some $30 million will be released to begin the first phase of the waterfront enhancement project at Wismar and Mackenzie, in Linden, Region 10. On Friday, the minister engaged several stakeholders at the Watooka Guest House to identify works that could be undertaken to modernise the waterfront there. “Whatever we do must be able to impact

no matter how small it is,” the minister said. The consultation saw contributions from Regional Chairman, Deron Adams; Linden Mayor, Her Worship Waneka Arrindell; Chief Sea and River Defence Officer, Kevin Samuel; Engineer, Brigadier (ret’d) Gary Beaton; and Project Manager, Jermaine Braithwaite, among others. Following the exercise, the team visited the prospective sites at Wismar and Mackenzie shores

clude proper sanitary blocks, adequate lighting and recreational facilities. The minister said all construction will cater for senior citizens and persons living with disabilities. “The good news is that light is at the end of the tunnel. The $30 million waterfront development for Region 10 is on the chart for 2021 and within a very short period works will begin,” the minister added. Meanwhile, Mayor Arrindell said among other

A scene of the Wismar, Linden waterfront on a Friday afternoon (DPI photo) several commitments to ensure all 10 administrative regions receive sufficient development in all areas including ag-

Public Works Minister, Bishop Juan Edghill during a site visit to the Mackenzie waterfront last Friday (DPI photo) the people of Region 10. It must bring immediate benefits to the people of Region 10. We cannot do development in a way that doesn’t bring impact and the policy direction that we are governed by … whatever we do must answer the felt needs and the desires of the people,

where works are expected to begin. Engineers attached to the Public Works Ministry are tasked with crafting the enhancement proposal for both locations and that document would be delivered to Minister Edghill on Monday. The projects will in-

enhancement projects, the municipality has put together a plan and scope of work to develop a children’s park along the bandstand route. The Council also wants to recommission the bandstand to host recreational activities. Government has made

71-year-old injured in hit-and-run accident GRIFFITH Franklin, 71, of Station Street, Kitty, Georgetown, was seriously injured in a hit-and-run accident at Mon Repos Railway Embankment, East Coast Demerara on Sunday. The accident reportedly occurred around 00:20 hrs. According to Police Headquarters, enquiries disclosed that Franklin was walking on the Railway Embankment road when a motor vehicle collided with him. As a result of the collision, he fell

onto the surface of the road and received injuries about his body. Griffith was picked up in a conscious condition and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation where he was seen and examined by a doctor on duty who admitted him a patient for a broken right leg. Police report that further enquiries are ongoing, and the vehicle that was involved in the accident is still unknown.

riculture, employment, tourism, business and education. Some $220 million was, last week, distribut-

ed in Region 10 through the ‘Because We Care’ and School Uniform and Supplies cash grants. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 26, 2021

80 jobs for Region 10

BY next weekend, 80 individuals in Region 10 will be employed by the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development. This announcement was made by Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall, when he visited the region to lead the distribution of the ‘Because We Care’ and School Uniform and Supplies cash grants. “We are going to be employing an additional, through our ministry, 80 persons in the town in the next few days going towards the end of the month. That again an additional 80 persons will get jobs in Region 10.”

This is in addition to the 400 persons who were employed by the Regional Democratic Council of Region 10 over the past four months. Minister Dharamlall said the employment process is non-discriminatory and the government will continue giving individuals a fair chance. “The government’s position is, the more people get employed, then they get to take care of their families, wealth gets created and so the livelihood, the opportunities of people get taken into account. And it’s that philosophy we are using across every single village in our country.”

“You can be assured that no one will be discriminated against, no one will be victimised, the only thing that we want is your hard work, your full support and the government is going to work with every single one in every single community to create and provide further development.” This is part of the government’s drive to rebuild the economy that slowed due to the COVID pandemic. It is also in keeping with the PPP/C’s manifesto promise of providing 50,000 jobs in five years. This promise is becoming a reality as the confidence that was restored

in the economy following August 2, 2020, has brought many investors to Guyana, especially in the hotel industry. Many persons are being employed in the construction sector. Numerous contracts have been awarded for the rehabilitation of urban and rural roads, providing more jobs. Additionally, with the reopening of the sugar industry, jobs will be returned to estate workers; jobs that were terminated when the sugar factories and estates were closed by the previous APNU/AFC administration. Already, more than a thousand persons have been

re-employed at the estates. The Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali-led Government has also employed close to 30,000 Community Support Officers (CSOs) in the 220 Amerindian villages across the country; jobs that were stripped by the former government. The government also removed Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity, water, education materials and basic food items. The water and electricity subsidy was returned to pensioners, while old-age pension was increased as promised. True to its words, the Government also returned the ‘Because We Care’

Local Government and Regional Development Minister, Nigel Dharamlall cash grant and increased it from $10,000 to $15,000. The School Uniform and other supplies grant has been doubled to $4,000 (DPI).

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 26, 2021

Bhuvneshwar, Chahar crush Sri Lanka

(ESPNCRICINFO) - As has been the case right through the tour, Sri Lanka were decent with the ball, containing India to 164 for 5, but their batting let them down once more. Between the end of the 5th and 16th over, Sri Lanka scored only 69 runs, and lost five wickets. Essentially, with the likes of debutant Varun Chakravarthy impressing, and Yuzvendra Chahal delivering another outstanding spell, Sri Lanka lacked the firepower to mount a serious challenge. Suryakumar Yadav makes it look easy Already one of India’s best batters in the ODIs, Suryakumar Yadav played the defining innings in the first T20I, producing the game’s only half-century - with 50 off 34. Where others struggled for timing on this surface, Yadav’s batting was effortless. He hit his seventh ball for four, whipping his wrists to loft it through wide longon. Later in that Wanindu Hasaranga over, he cracked a short ball past backward point for four. He read slower balls and shoveled them over his shoulder for four, sent overpitched deliveries scorching through cover, and for his last two boundaries, slog swept Isuru Udana over cow corner, and launched Hasaranga back over his head to

in the 16th over, trying desperately for another six. BHUVNESHWAR KUMAR CLEANS UP THE TAIL Kumar wasn’t far from having a wicket first ball, when Fernando’s outside edge flew over Prithvi Shaw at slip. He would later get Fernando out in the eighth over, caught at deep square leg, but it was in the closing overs

Bhuvneshwar Kumar came back after his first spell to pick wickets SLC complete his fifty. He holed out next ball, in the 16th over, but had given India’s innings its backbone. SRI LANKA TIGHT IN THE CLOSING OVERS At 101 for 2 at the end of the 12th over, and two set batters (Shikhar Dhawan on 41 off 29 and Yadav on 30 off 22) at the crease, a total of around 180 beckoned. But none of the last eight overs yielded more than a single boundary. And none went for more than 10. The last two overs, bowled by Dushmantha Chameera and Chamika

Karunaratne were especially good - Chameera having Hardik Pandya caught behind and giving away only eight in the penultimate over, before Karunaratne conceded nine in the 20th. Although a target of 165 was always going to test Sri Lanka, it didn’t seem out of reach. Chameera, who took 2 for 24, and Hasaranga, who took 2 for 28, were the hosts’ standout bowlers. Sri Lanka’s middle order struggle around debutant Asalanka At the end of the powerplay, Sri Lanka had been reasonably well-placed, at 46 for 1. But then came two quick wickets - Dhananjaya de Silva bowled by Cha-

hal for 9, before Avishka Fernando holed out against Bhuvneshwar Kumar for 26. And then, Sri Lanka largely plodded through the middle overs, Charith Asalanka the only exception. Ashen Bandara soaked up 19 balls for his 9. Next man in, Dasun Shanaka hit only one boundary in his 14-ball 16. Although Asalanka was excellent, hitting three sixes and three fours in his 44 off 26 balls, he could not make up enough ground to account for team-mates who could not score anywhere near as quickly as the target required. Asalanka was eventually caught at deep midwicket

USA shocked by France in Men’s Olympic qualifiers (BBC) - The USA’s men’s basketball team saw their 25-game Olympic winning streak ended as they were stunned 83-76 by France in their Tokyo opener. Evan Fournier poured in 28 points for the French as the Americans, who have won gold in the past three Games, were beaten for the first time since 2004. A strong third quarter, where France outscored Gregg Popovich’s star-studded team 25-11, proved decisive. Rudy Gobert was also influential with 14 points and nine rebounds. It was a disastrous start for Team USA who struggled in their preparation for the tournament, losing warmup matches to Nigeria and

France’s Evan Fournier goes for the basket past USA’s Draymond Jamal Green during the men’s preliminary round group A basketball match between France and USA during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at the Saitama Super Arena in Saitama on July 25, 2021. (Photo by Eric GAY / various sources / AFP) (Photo by ERIC GAY/AFP via Getty Images) Australia. en control of the game with They looked to have tak- an eight-point half-time lead.

But, with Kevin Durant in foul trouble early on, they could not maintain that momentum as a flat third quarter saw them score just 11 points. Jrue Holiday, with 18 points in just under 28 minutes of action coming off the bench, was a bright spot in their struggles and helped them to a six-point lead in the fourth quarter. But the Americans missed four open three-point attempts in the final 30 seconds to hand France the advantage and Boston Celtics guard Fournier led them to an impressive victory. Popovich will now hope his side can respond against Iran on Wednesday, with France taking on the Czech Republic.

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS GREYVILLE 08:15 hrs Backstop 08:50 hrs Flying First Class 09:30 hrs Quest For The Best 10:05 hrs Naval Secret 10:40 hrs Stanton Street CANADIAN RACING TIPS Fort Erie Race 1 Trail Blazing Essa Race 2 River Of Pearls Race 3 A Gershwin Tune Race 4 Einstein’s Babe Race 5 Naked In The Woods Race 6 Glitter Mountain Race 7 Play It Smart AMERICAN RACING TIPS Delaware Park Race 1 Landneedahandler Race 2 Monkey’s Medal Race 3 Texas Reward Race 4 Fort Fortitude Race 5 Weight Of Glory Race 6 Ohio Class Race 7 Catching The Wind Race 8 Makkoto

that Kumar was most penetrative, sealing the match for India. He took three of the last four wickets, getting the dangerous Karunaratne to play back on to his stumps, before dismissing Udana and Chameera in the space of three balls in the 19th over. He finished with the game’s best figures of 4 for 22, having been more economical than any of his compatriots, save Chahal, who took 1 for 19 from his four overs.

IRISH RACING TIPS Halfway 11:10 hrs Duke De Sessa 11:40 hrs Mother Country 12:15 hrs Ola Bonita 12:45 hrs Mr Coldstone 13:15 hrs Ziffanien 13:45 hrs Ever A Dreamer ENGLISH RACING TIPS Ayr 08:45 hrs Cotai Class 09:15 hrs Glenamoy Lad 09:50 hrs Ravenscraig Castle 10:20 hrs Hotter Stokes 10:55 hrs Bary Shnikov 11:30 hrs Caballero 12:00 hrs Royal Jazz NEWTON ABBOT 08:30 hrs Masterdream 09:40 hrs Ayr Of Elegance 10:10 hrs Lapford Lad 10:45 hrs Don’t Stop Now WINDSOR 12:25 hrs Dreams Of Thunder 12:55 hrs Dubai Jewel 13:25 hrs Spanish Star 14:25 hrs Sword Beach 14:55 hrs Strong Power 15:55 hrs Lisdarragh

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Monday July 26, 2021) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Curtly Ambrose-69 wickets (44 ODIs) (2) Wasim Akram-89 wickets (64 ODIs)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) What are the best ODI bowling figures by a WI versus PAK to date? (2) What are the best ODI bowling figures by a PAK player against the WI to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 26, 2021

Up to 40% fully vaccinated fans to be allowed for West Indies/Pakistan T20Is in Guyana THE Government of Guyana will be allowing a maximum 40 per cent capacity to fully vaccinated fans to attend the three Twenty20 Internationals between West Indies and Pakistan at the National Stadium, Providence. The two sides play on July 31, August 1st and 3rd from 11:00hrs, and it will mark a return of international cricket at the venue since August 2019, when West Indies faced India. Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, on Sunday, indicated that fully vaccinated fans are those who have received their second dose of COVID-19 vaccine at least two weeks before the date of

the match. Spectators are required to wear facemasks at all times and are required to present their Identification card and vaccination documentation in order to be admitted. Officials of the Ministry of Health and the National COVID-19 Task Force would be present to verify vaccination documentation. Tickets will be available for three stands (Green, Red, Orange) only. No tickets would be made available for the Grass Mound, where there is a No-Entry policy. The Stadium has a full capacity of 15,000, which means approximately 6,000 persons will be allowed entry per match, and those

persons would be adequately spaced in the three stands. Tickets are US$20 or G$4,000 for each match. Additionally, persons under 18 years would not be allowed entry, while a no re-entry policy will be in effect. Other measures that will be implemented are: Concession stands are not allowed, but persons will be roving to sell beverages; Glass bottles of any kind are not allowed as well as firearms, knives, and sharp metal objects. Stadium gates will be opened at 07:30hrs to facilitate early admission and avoid congestion.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr.

GGA second summer camp PCB, CWI announce revised set to tee off from August 2 schedule for upcoming series

THE second Annual Guyana Golf Association (GGA)/Nexgen Golf Academy/ Sterling Products dedicated to former Coach Colin Ming finished on a high note on Thursday at the Scouts Association of Guyana ground, with another camp set for August 2nd. Paul Charles, reigning Mister Model of Tourism World, joined sponsors Mohamed and Colin (H. Nauth & Sons) and Meirisa Jennings (BM Enterprises) to assist with the handing over of Certificates and Trophies that were sponsored by Ansa Mcal, BM Enterprises, Toolsie Persaud, AR Printery and Trophy Stall. Former Women’s champion Dr. Joaan Deo stood in for Captain Chen Deo, running the competition with Coaches Margo and Vishal, and assistance from Ms. Thomas, announcing the winners from the 60 participants in the eight categories. Speaking on behalf of the kids, Elton George who was born with cerebral palsy and brought by the Gonsalves family to play Golf for the first time, summed it up with a simple statement “this was my greatest experience and I loved it!” The Golf Camp featured table tennis and fitness with Coach Miguel Wong, players from the Guyana National Table Tennis Team and the Titans Tennis Club along with Coaches Anand Mangra and Narda Mohamed for Archery. “The reaction of the kids to a variety of sports at the Camp saw several getting involved in sports they never even imagined they would like!” Ms. Mizuna Gonsalves, spoke for the parents thanking the coaches and staff of the Guyana Golf Association and Nexgen Golf Academy for their efforts stating “this was an excellent initiative and most welcome for parents who wanted a safe and welcoming environment for their children after months of being cooped up at home. It was a well-run program and most importantly, our kids absolutely loved their experience, and the coaches were excellent!” Jake Thomas and Dean Viapree added “our boys had a fantastic experience and we’ll definitely be recommending the Academy to friends and family.”

President of the GGA/Nexgen Golf Academy Aleem Hussain said it was the parents, coaches, staff and sponsors which included the Shafura Hussain Foundation, Anwar Buddy Shaffie, the Ming family and the many overseas Guyanese golfers, who along with staunch corporate sponsors such as Assuria General Insurance; Copa Airlines; Blue Life Waters; Trophy Stall; Ansa Mcal; Toolsie Persaud; Kanuku Suite & Apartments; Ramchand Auto; Kanuku Tours; Angel Seafood Restaurant & Bar; Sunshine Snacks; Ram & Mcrae; Puran Brothers; Panko Steel Construction; H. Nauth & Sons; DanCo Inc.; AR Printery; Bissessar Shipping Company; CS World Cargo & Logistics; Sterling Products; Caliper Drones; PasCargo; New Trend Auto; Pur Persaud; Maraiko Bay Resorts; the Knight family; and NexGen Global Group who were the reason for the success of this and other efforts to develop golf in Guyana. Hussain emphasized that without the help from Head Coach Dr. Joaan Deo, and all the other coaches, Philip; Niketa; Steve; Al Wilson Jr.; Andrew and Captain Chen Deo who helped to design the training program and worked with the Academy during the past year, this Camp could not have been a success. Due to demand, another Golf Camp will commence on Aug 2-14 with added attractions of Fitness Training, Table Tennis, Badminton and Archery being showcased. Thanks to the generosity of sponsors Service Guyana HVAC; Toolsie Persaud, Ansa Mcal, H. Nauth & Sons and Trophy Stall, kids from the BV Police Youth Group headed by Mr. Barrow will be given the opportunity to experience these sports. Plans are also being made to host additional Golf Camps and activities during the rest of the year in Berbice, Linden, Essequibo, West Coast Demerara and Georgetown. “These will be two and three day camps in various regions so that all kids are given the opportunity to learn from the top coaches in the country.” Anyone interested in future activities, Golf Camps, or learning the game can contact the Academy, which has a lighted Driving Range that is open daily from 9 am to 8 pm, via WhatsApp 668 7419 or nexgengolfacademy on Facebook and Instagram.

CRICKET West Indies (CWI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) today announced a revised match schedule for the upcoming “Osaka Presents PSO Carient T20 Cup” between the West Indies and Pakistan in the Caribbean. A four-match T20 International (T20I) series has been agreed, scheduled to start on Wednesday, July 28 at Kensington Oval, Barbados. The first ball is 10am (9am Jamaica Time) for the first match, with the final three to be played at the Guyana National Stadium on Saturday, July 31; Sunday, August 1 and Tuesday, August 3 from 11am each day(10am Jamaica Time). The adjustment to the Osaka Presents PSO Carient T20 Cup schedule was necessary due to the changes to the fixtures for the ongoing CG Insurance One-Day International (ODI) Series between West Indies and Australia, which are part of the International Cricket Council’s ODI Super League, which concludes on Monday, July 26. Ricky Skerritt, CWI president said: “Together with the PCB, CWI have examined various scenarios, and we jointly agreed that the best solution in the present circumstances is to cancel the first T20I and play a four-match T20I series starting on Wednesday and keep the rest of the tour schedule unchanged. We want to express our gratitude to the PCB Chairman, Ehsan Mani and CEO, Wasim Khan,

FLASHBACK: Nicholas Pooran celebrates West Indies’ win, Pakistan v West Indies, World Cup 2019, Trent Bridge, May 31, 2019 and the Pakistan team for their understanding in this situation and for agreeing to the revised match schedule. Both teams are in the final stages of preparing for the ICC T20 World Cup, so we anticipate an exciting and entertaining series of games as both teams compete for Osaka Presents PSO Carient T20 Cup.” West Indies, the two-time World Champions (2012 and 2016), are using this series as part of their build-up to the next ICC T20 World Cup which will be played from October 17 to November 14 in the United Arab Emirates

and Oman. They enter the series on the back of a 4-1 triumph over Australia in the recent CG Insurance T20Is at the Darren Sammy Cricket Ground in Saint Lucia. Pakistan won the ICC T20 World Cup in 2009. Following the Osaka Presents PSO Carient T20 Cup, West Indies and Pakistan will then play two Betway Test matches at Sabina Park in Jamaica from August 12-16 and then from August 20-24. This is the first Test Series for the West Indies in the new 2021-2023 ICC World Test Championship.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 26, 2021

Allicock not going ‘pro’ … Boxer shifts focus to 2024 Olympic Games By Rawle Toney GUYANA’s Keevin Allicock would not be leaving the amateur ranks any time soon, as the Olympian now shifts his attention to competing at the 2024 Olympics in Paris, France. “I wanted to go pro after this Olympics, but the love that I’m seeing, believe me, I’m going to give it the next three years, I’m going to

fight again; I’m going to the next Olympics and represent Guyana,” Allicock proclaimed. Allicock’s presence in Tokyo saw the return of Guyana at Olympic boxing for the first time since John Douglas at the 1996 Games in Atlanta. The Albouystown resident squared off against Alexy de la Cruz in the men’s Featherweight divi-

sion, but despite his effort, the judges, Beau Campbell (USA), Radoslav Simon (Slovakia), Susann Kopke (Germany), Mansur Muhiddinov (Tajikistan) and Nelka Shiromala Thampu (Sri Lanka) all scored in favour of the Dominican Republic boxer. Allicock said after his disappointing result, he reflected on all the high hopes that were placed in him by

the local boxing fraternity and the country, but he pointed out, “If it’s God’s will for me, then I would’ve moved on to the next round. I came here (Tokyo), I performed, I do my best and represented everyone in Guyana and I want people to understand that this is not the [end] of it.” Meanwhile, Allicock believes that he needs to be more exposed, “to go to

more games so the Judges can know me, and fight more competition to help my game a lot. These are some of things that I’ve been lacking. But I think now with the management, the president Mr Steve Ninvalle and everyone else, things will get better.” Steve Ninvalle, president of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA), speaking on the future of his most-

prized boxer, pointed out that “Keevin has given me his word that he will be staying over in the Amateur ranks for the next Olympics. He will be matured as an Amateur fighter and my plan is to have him and other boxers exposed to the high level of competition in the world, so that his next occasion at the Olympics, he will be much better than this one.”

Hosein says partnerships key as MSC congratulates WI chasing history against Australia Chelsea Edghill

WEST Indies and Australia meet today in the series-decider at the Kensington Oval, Barbados, from 14:30hrs, and for the hosts, it will be a massive chance to change an unwanted history of 50-over dominance by the Aussies. Since March 1995 when West Indies won 4-1 in a five-match series, they have never defeated the Australians again in a One-Day International bilateral series. Then the likes of now Head Coach, Phil Simmons, Carl Hooper and Jimmy Adams were active players and it will now be up to the likes of Shai Hope, Evin Lewis, Shimron Hetmyer, and even spinner Akeal Hosein. Hosein, speaking on the eve of the key match with the three-match series tied 1-1, said it will be a dream come true to win against the five-time World Champions. “There won’t be a greater feeling, so to speak, for a youngster to come in and break the jinx for a record that has been so long; it will definitely be a brilliant feeling”, the 28-year-old expressed. Apart from the success of topping the world powerhouses, it will mean 20 valuable points towards the Super League, and another step at automatic qualification to the 2023 World Cup in India. In the second ODI on

10-15 overs, and it is just for us to see off that period and we can set big totals.” In the first match which West Indies lost by 133 runs (D/L method), they were bowled out for 127 after being 27-6 in the eight over and, in the second, in pursuit of 188, at one stage West Indies were 72-5 in the 15th over. Changes could be prompted today with the batting failing, and that could see the return of Hetmyer for either Darren Bravo, who has had scores of two and zero, or Jason Mohammed (2 and 11). West Indies ODI squad: Kieron Pollard (Captain), Shai Hope (Vice-captain), Fabian Allen, Darren Bravo, Roston Chase, ShelAkeal Hosien has taken five wickets in two don Cottrell, Shimron Hetmatches in the ODI series myer, Jason Holder, Akeal Saturday, West Indies had idadian said he has tried to Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Evin the Aussies 45-6 in the 13th saturate himself with knowl- Lewis, Jason Mohammed, over, but they still managed edge from the experienced Anderson Phillip, Nicholas to reach 187 all out in 47.1 players and work with the Pooran, Romario Shepherd. Australia squad: Ashovers. analyst about how to further ton Agar, Wes Agar, Jason The left-arm spinner took improve his craft. 3-30 in his allotment of ten As a youth cricketer, Ho- Behrendorff, Alex Carey overs, and indicated in the sein was a top-order bats- (captain for ODIs), Dan future, they must stick to man, and he indicated that, Christian, Josh Hazlewood, their plans. going forward, the team’s Moises Henriques, Mitch “We have to stay in the batsmen must be patient ell Marsh, Ben McDermoment, not every delivery and get partnerships in the mott, Riley Meredith, Josh you bowl you will expect first 10-15 overs against the Philippe, Mitchell Starc, to get a wicket; just have to menacing Mitchell Starc and Mitchell Swepson, Ashton Turner, Andrew Tye, Matstick at it, stick with the plan company. and just keep positive.” “We just need to string thew Wade (Vice-captain With just ten matches at partnerships together. It is for T20Is), Adam Zampa. the international level (eight clear that the Aussies are Travelling reserves: Nathan ODI and two T20I), the Trin- really hurting us in the first Ellils, Tanveer Sangha

Chelsea Edghill THE Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC) recently sent congratulations to Olympic Table-Tennis player, Chelsea Edghill and her Coach Idi Lewis, who are at the Tokyo Olympics. This is this Country’s 17 appearance at the biggest multi-sport games in the world since its inaugural participation in 1948 as British Guiana. “On behalf of the Executives and Members of the Malteenoes Sports Club, I take this opportunity to congratulate 22-year-old Chelsea Edghill on being Guyana’s first-ever Table Tennis player to represent her country, at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Edghill, the Caribbean Under-21 Champion, created history when she received a ‘Wild Card’ for the Olympics being the only female Table Tennis player in the World to do so. Club president Deborah McNichol said via statement, “We at Malteenoes are very proud of your achievement and we wish to express our heartfelt gratitude for your dedication and commitment to the sport”. “Also to the coach, Idi Lewis, also a member of Malteenoes, for his contribution over the years nurturing and training Chelsea to achieve this feat”. Malteenoes was among a number of local entities which sent their best wishes to the table-tennis ace following her first win and eventual advancement to the next phase of her journey at the Olympics.

Up to 40% fully vaccinated fans to be allowed for West Indies/Pakistan T20Is in Guyana see story on page 22

A limited number of fans in Guyana will be allowed entry into the National Stadium for the three matches

Allicock not going ‘pro’ see story on page 23

… Boxer shifts focus to 2024 Olympic Games

Guyana’s Keevin Allicock (R) connects a left jab to Alexy Miguel de la Cruz Baez of The Dominican Republic during the Men’s Featherweight division (52-57kg) Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

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MONDAY, JULY 26, 2021