Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_04_12_2021

SATURDAY 4th December, 2021

' No.106565

Strategic partnership vital to advancing manufacturing, service sectors 03 PAGE

–– gov’t ready to invest in necessary infrastructure to render support, says President Ali

President Dr Irfaan Ali

Rickford Burke wanted by police 09 for inciting racial hostility, public terror PAGE

Norton could remove Harmon as Opposition Leader 02 PAGE

These Amerindian dancers lit up the launch of seven new experiential tours to various parts of Guyana by the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce and the Guyana Tourism Authority on Friday (DPI photo)

$2.4B quarry 12 Public support 13 project on the needed for teen with cards for Koetaru lupus, kidney failure PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 4, 2021

Norton, with support, can remove Harmon as Opposition Leader

THINGS continue to heat up at the People’s National Congress/Reform’s (PNC/R) Congress Place, Sophia headquarters ahead of their upcoming biennial congress as Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon is confident he would not be removed from that position even though the Constitution says otherwise.

Speaking as a guest on Benschop Radio (107.1FM), Harmon confidently declared he could not be removed

from his public office even if he were to lose the race for Leader of his party. A snippet of that video has been making the rounds on the social media platform, Facebook.

Harmon said: “I am the current Leader of the Opposition in Guyana. And that there is some rumour going around that if somebody else wins, they could remove me.

“But I just want to make clear that the Constitution is very clear about that. That the Leader of the Opposition

could only be removed at the next elections of the country.

The next General and Regional Elections. He can’t be removed any other way”.

One of Harmon’s contenders, Aubrey Norton, was asked by this newspaper about the comments made by Harmon, who is a lawyer by profession. Norton, however, said he did not want to speak to the matter at this time.

Article 184 of Guyana’s Constitution outlines how someone is elected and re-

moved from the position of Opposition Leader of the National Assembly of the Parliament of Guyana.

In that provision, the members of the National Assembly who are not part of the government must elect the Opposition Leader through a vote held at a meeting which the Speaker of the National Assembly would chair.

There are a number of ways someone may be removed from the National

Opposition Leader and PNC/R contender for party Leader, Joseph Harmon Assembly, according to the The PNCR’s 21st bienConstitution which could nial congress is slated for also affect their assumption December 11. Leading up of the Office of Opposition to that major event for the Leader. party, some of its members However, Article 184 have taken to social media also includes a no-confi- to decry the divisive cultures dence provision specifically that exists internally. for removing the leader of Just recently the party’s the opposition.

Central Executive CommitThe provision reads: tee announced that three “Where one-third of the members of its Accreditanon-governmental mem- tion Congress Committee bers of the Assembly repre- have resigned. These include sent to the Speaker that the Carol Smith-Joseph, Anette Leader of the Opposition Ferguson, and Ganesh Mano longer enjoys their con- hipaul. fidence, the speaker shall The statement from the call a meeting of all the party cited a conflict of non-governmental mem- interest as some of the combers at which it shall be mittee’s members “are at decided whether the Leader the same time openly camof the Opposition shall be paigning for candidates of removed from office.” their choice”. The AccrediThe provision continues: tation Congress Committee “the removal shall be effect- selects delegates eligible ed by the votes of a majority to vote for candidates, acof all the non-governmental cording to the party remembers”. lease.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 4, 2021

Strategic partnership vital to advancing manufacturing, services sectors

- gov’t ready to invest in necessary infrastructure to render support, says President Ali

By Richard Bhainie PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali is encouraging entrepreneurs to form strategic partnerships which will inevitably make the requisite resources available to them to pursue massive transformation and growth, and has pledged his government’s support in ensuring the development of industries.

President Ali was at the time delivering the keynote address at the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA)’s 26th Annual Presentation of Awards Ceremony, held under the theme, “Changing the paradigm for advancing sustainable industry, transformation and growth” at the Ramada Princess Hotel, at Providence, East Bank Demerara on Friday.

“Are we saying that if the industries are positioned as they are now, there is a likelihood that they won’t be sustainable? And if that is the case, then what are the inputs that we are go-

President Dr. Irfaan Ali ing to put into place to make them sustainable?

Obviously, for them to be sustainable, some changes are required,” he said.

He highlighted that in order for the requisite changes to achieve the agenda and be sustainable, “a frank and honest evaluation” must be conducted, and a number of questions must be asked. Importantly, he asked, “Are partnerships required, and who are strategic partners.”

“Let us identify that gap, and then let us position ourselves, strategically, to see who are the

partners we need to come on board with us to fill that gap, because, in the assessment, once the gap is recognised, you will know we don’t have the capacity in certain areas,” President Ali said.

These strategic partnerships must be formed between members of the manufacturing and services industry, who must pool their resources together and shy away from seeing each other only as competitors, to build the capacity necessary to advance the sector, the President pinpointed.

Providing an example of competitors coming together to pursue a common goal, President Ali referenced the soyabean and corn pilot projects, which are currently underway in Ebini, on the Upper Berbice River, and is being run by a consortium of businesses.

Businesses collaborating also address issues faced by small and medium-sizeed enterprises, the Head of State explained, as they can now pool their resources to increase their production, and provide more services in an effective and efficient way.

“If we have 25 small and medium-sized machining shops that could come together and bring their resources together and create one large machining shop, that could take the jobs that big industries are taking that immediately takes the country on another scale,” President Ali said.

TIME IS CHANGING “Yes, the family businesses are good, but time is changing; circumstances are changing, and if 10 small businesses can come together and take away 30

per cent share in that market, aren’t they better off?

There is better competitive advantage,” he added.

President Ali opined that while some entrepreneurs might be “satisfied with a small share”, the issue runs deeper to opportunities being wasted, and leaders in the industry such as those in the GMSA and the Private Sector Commission (PSC) must be at the forefront steering such initiatives.

President Ali also highlighted that Guyana is rich with abundant resources ready to be taken advantage of, and encouraged entrepreneurs to explore novel markets, and not focus only on oil and gas, but rather see the oil and gas sector as a stepping stone for Guyana to tap into other areas of investment.

“You have a government that is ready to listen, even learn, and adopt to the changes that are required to help you succeed. At the end of the day, we have to build one common theme in this country; we are all winners, we are in this to win, we have to develop a win-

ning culture,” the Head of State said.

The President highlighted that his administration will be aggressively pursuing removing barriers to trade, and will be making the necessary investments to do so, and in these regards, he urged the private sector to align itself to reap the benefits.

“The government is going to invest in all the facilities to do the testing, the ‘labs’, everything.

We’re going to build it, state-of-the-art, and remove all the excuses that exist… You have to be prepared; you have to build your business model to follow the direction of the policy,” he said.

President Ali urged the consortium of businesses to approach him once they have transformative ideas, and he will facilitate seeing those ideas come to fruition, as the government is interested in being the vehicle to drive investments.

“We ready to work with you; we want to work with you. Come forward and let us take Guyana upwards to victory, and all of us must be winners,” he said.

MoE creates ‘resolution desk’ to improve performance, service delivery

THE Ministry of Education (MoE) has set up a “Resolution Desk” that will be an official channel for students, teachers, and parents to make complaints, queries and report issues in the education system that are affecting them.

In a statement issued on Friday, the ministry noted that the facility will be handled by the Office of the Inspectorate man-

aged by School Inspector, Shaharazade Atkinson.

The desk can be contacted by telephone on

225-7000, WhatsApp on 652-9145 or email on inspectorate@moe.gov.gy “This desk will accept

complaints, queries, and grievances. This desk will also provide information on the services offered by the Ministry of Education. This desk is open to students, teachers and parents and all other stakeholders in education,” the statement said.

The ministry noted that it will be striving to have all complaints made to the Resolution Desk addressed within a 24-hour window.

“This initiative will allow the Ministry of Education to promote and value feedback. It will also allow the MoE to manage complaints, to improve performance, systems, and service delivery,” the ministry said.

The Resolution Desk aims to resolve the problems encountered by students, teachers, and parents in the education sector; provide an avenue for students, teachers,

and parents to record their dissatisfaction with the services offered in the education sector; ensure an open, accessible and transparent complaint-management system; ensure that feedback, suggestions and complaints are managed effectively, fairly, confidentially, and objectively and to inform and identify where service improvements can be made.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 4, 2021

Jaxx International Grill opens ‘Jaxx on the Patio’

Some of the first patrons to dine at ‘Jaxx on the Patio’ Venezuelan musician, Karlo Jerez performing at Jaxx on the Patio JAXX International Grill located at Movietowne has expanded with the opening of its “Jaxx on the Patio”, a new section to the facility that will now cater for outdoor dining and live entertainment.

The new facility was launched on Friday before a small audience and has already begun to receive rave reviews from persons who have taken in the experience.

“It’s really good, the breeze, the music, the whole atmosphere has been really good. I am a regular customer at Jaxx, and it’s great to see the whole experience from inside now brought outside,” said 24- year-old Elton Newton, who dined on the patio.

Friday’s patrons at the patio were treated to live music by Venezuelan musician, Karlo Jerez, and the cool natural breeze from the seawall.

“The ambience sells itself,” commented Jaxx International Operations Manager, Quiche Manoo, as he spoke with Guyana Chronicle at the launch.

“It’s breezy, the ambience is romantic, it feels like dining under the stars and we are going to be do-

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ing live entertainment every Saturday and Fridays. We are going to feature things like Latin night, adult contemporary, and try to get some karaoke in also. We are also trying to do a comedian night.”

He explained that the restaurant decided to do the expansion to cater for Guyanese natural affinity for outdoor dining, which had increased even more due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“After research we realised that the Guyanese culture loves to dine outdoor and with COVID it’s even better to dine outdoors. Yes, we have an influx of foreigners into the country but it’s our Guyanese locals that keep our business alive and that’s why we value each and every one of them. Anyone who walks in our door, whether it’s for an appetizer or a for a full function, we believe that every guest that dine with us is a VIP guest and we treat everyone as if they are the Queen of England, we believe our guest sign our paycheck, which they definitely do so we strive mainly on repeat clientele,” Manoo commented.

He noted that customers can expect more of the same great customer service that they have come to expect from the Jaxx International Restaurant and the same great, wide ranging menu.

“Jaxx International Grill is known for bringing the world of food to your table. Since opening in Guyana we have been exciting taste buds. The theme for our menu is ‘The world at your table’, so our menu items are pulled from different cultures, Chinese, American, Indian, and Italian culture just to name a few. And we continue to raise our standard of service quality of food and drinks,” he noted.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 4, 2021

Several small businesses turn out at IDPADA-G one-day exhibition

TWENTY six small businesses owned by Afro-Guyanese were given an opportunity to showcase their products and services at “Ujamaa,” a one-day sale and exhibition organised by the International Decade for People of African Descent Assembly Guyana (IDPADA-G) at the Square of the Revolution.

The businesses on display ranged from agro-processors, florists and plants to catering,

one and now maks cakes for all occasions throughout the year.

Given that the business is still a young one, she is grateful for opportunities such as the exhibition at which she can showcase her skills and gain customers as she looks forward to seeing her business expand.

“Cake Bliss has only been in operation for eight months now, but we look forward to a bright future. We came

business after she would continuously be approached by persons who liked items that she made for herself and would request her to make items for them.

Her products included Christmas wreaths and hygiene product packages, and hand-made craft.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle, IDPADA-G Community Development Officer Elsie Harry said the organisation was encouraged

Some of the Christmas wreaths that were on display at “Thee Wreath Boutique” (Delano Williams photo) paintings, craft and home decor. With a number of persons passing through to purchase items or browse, the businesses were able to capitalise on gaining new customers and selling some of the items.

One of the booths on display belonged to 25-year-old Beanka McLod, owner of Cake Bliss, which supplies cakes and cupcakes for various events.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle, McLod explained that after running a seasonal business that supplied cakes at Christmas time, eight months ago she decided to make the business official, turn it into a full-time

out here today so that we can have a feel of the outdoors and can promote our business. We don’t want to be a small business all the time, we hope to grow into a big business so we are out here to promote it, and we are grateful for the opportunity this provides,” McLod commented.

Next to McLod’s booth was “Thee Wreath Boutique”, another small business owned by a young entrepreneur, 26-year-old Sherry Butters.

Providing a wide range of craft items and gift packages, Butters explained that she has always been a creative person and got the idea to start her

by the response that it has seen at the exhibition and hopes to organise future such

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A section of the Ujamaa One Day Sale and Exhibition held on Friday (Delano Williams photo) events to help businesses opportunity to also celebrate from them collectively. gain some attention.

So we’ve provided a platAfrican culture.

“We had chosen to do this “Ujamaa is the fourth form for African Guyabecause we have recognised principle of Kwanzaa. nese businesses to showthat a lot of small businesses It means cooperative case their products and have suffered during the pan- economics, so what we hopefully secure sales, demic in particular and also are promoting is building and long-term customers some persons even started our businesses, building for their businesses,” she their businesses during the our stores and profiting pointed out. pandemic to secure another source of income.

So it’s all about giving them a platform to showcase their products, put it on display. We wanted to provide some additional coverage for them as well as bring them all in one place to a central location where people can come and support them,” she noted.

She said the name of the event is actually linked to the African celebration of Kwanzaa, so it doubles as an

Some customers check out a jewellery booth at the “Ujamaa” One Day Sale and Exhibition on Friday (Delano Williams photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 4, 2021

COVID-19 Booster Shots ACCORDING to information released by the Ministry of Health, close to 20,000 persons have already taken their COVID-19 booster shots and that number is growing by the day.

This is good news and the ministry must be commended for making available to all those eligible, especially those who are 50 years and over. And, according to Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony, the ministry is currently re-examining the age limit having regard to the emergence and spread of the Omicron variant which is now spreading to several parts of the world. The number fully vaccinated persons is 281,571 which is approximately 36 per cent of the population. This compares favourably with the Latin America and Caribbean average which currently is about 14 per cent of the adult population.

Omicron was first identified officially in South Africa about over two weeks ago but there is evidence to suggest that it may have been in circulation much earlier. Over a dozen countries have already confirmed

cases of the Omicron variant including the United States and neighbouring Brazil.

This is of particular concern to us, given our close proximity to Brazil and the social intercourse between Guyana and the United States and Brazil. In the case of the two infected Brazilian missionaries, both had tested negative prior to leaving for South Africa, an indication that they may have contracted the virus during their stay in South Africa.

Scientists around the world are seeking to determine if the new variant is more infectious, deadly and evasive. Preliminary tests done already suggest that the virus has more mutations and is more transmissible which is quite worrisome. Many countries, out of caution, have travel restrictions mainly on flights coming out of South Africa, which is already beginning to hurt the economy.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has classified Omicorn as a ‘variant of concern’ due to the number of mutations that might help it spread or evade antibodies

from prior infection or vaccination. Meanwhile, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali is urging all Guyanese to take their vaccines as it is the only tool available to protect against the consequences of the deadly novel coronavirus. According to President Ali, “If it is that this variant is far more infectious, then the only thing that can protect us is the vaccines, the only thing that can slow hospitalisation is the vaccine, the only thing that will slow death rate, and actually very successfully is the vaccination.”

The WHO, on November 26, designated the SARS-CoV-2 variant B.1.1.592, named Omicron, a variant of concern (VOC) based on advice from WHO’s Technical Advisory Group on Virus Evolution after the variant was first reported to the WHO from South Africa on November 24.

According to the WHO, the overall global risk related to the new Omicron variant is assessed to be ‘very high’. The WHO found Omicron to have an unprecedented number of spike mutations, some of which are worrying due to their potential impact

on the trajectory of the pandemic.

We are not, as it were out of the woods when it comes to the overcoming the deadly effects of the coronavirus. South Africa is currently experiencing its fourth wave of the virus and is the first country to have reported cases of the Omicorn variant. There is only one way out of the pandemic and that is through vaccination, The Guyana Government has been extremely proactive in its vaccination drive which is highly commendable. It is now for all eligible Guyanese to do their part and take full advantage of the government’s programmes and policies to safeguard the health and well-being of its citizens from the deadly impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The infection rate in Guyana has slowed down somewhat over the past weeks and while this is an encouraging trend, it is no reason for complacency, especially in the context of the emergence of new variants, the two most recent of which is the Delta and the Omicorn variants.

Race had no role in termination of political appointees Dear Editor,

AN allegation was made that some 200 African government workers were terminated by the PPP administration on account of their race. No evidence supports this contention.

The contention is made by a dismissed political appointee of APNU. Anyone out of a job suffers severe loss and would be hurting. As a labour activist and as someone who served in union leadership for three decades, I am sympathetic with terminated workers. It is not easy to be on the breadline. But as a political analyst and as someone with a PhD in political science, I also know that political appointees are not retained when there is a change in government.

Those 200 staffers were political appointees.

Political appointees know they will lose their jobs and perks when their party loses power. Those who embrace professional ethic automatically resign when their party loses power. It is a standard practice in every democracy. Political appointees who hang on to their position lack professionalism. They are not professionals but lackeys.

The former political appointee who made the allegation neglected to point out that not only Africans but Indians and other political appointees were also terminated. No professionals were terminated. Those terminated were political appointees hired by APNU

when it replaced PPP as the government in May 2015. One political appointee was hired at GuySuCo as public relations head after APNU was installed in office and replaced the professional incumbent at that position.

What is startling is the political appointee failed to mention that several Indian political appointees, and hundreds of Indian professionals, were terminated by the Granger administration. She focused primarily on dismissed Africans under the present administration but not others who lost their jobs under the previous regime.

As political appointees, regardless of their race, workers including those who are professionals, were terminated after the PPP assumed office because they failed to do the honourable thing, that is, to me, resign after their party lost power as is the global custom.

The PPP justifiably hired its own political activists – Africans, Indians, Mixed, Amerindians, and others who supported it in the election. Surely, Ms. Thomas didn’t expect PPP to hire or retain staff that opposed it during the election campaign. And several professionals, who were not openly politically aligned of all ethnicities, were retained or hired by the PPP. An examination of hiring of permanent secretaries, as an illustration, shows that one half were Indians, a third Africans, and almost a fifth of mixed background. That is a racial balance that was alien to the rule

of the previous government when 16 of 17 permanent secretaries were African. The lone Indian was later replaced by another African – 100 per cent of one race in a racially divisive country. Where was the outrage?

The appointee expressed concern about the loss of income of the 200 terminated African workers and its impact ($720M annually) on the economy. Similar concern of loss of income of sugar workers (most being Indians) was not expressed. Some 7,000 sugar workers were terminated in 2017 and she did not protest against the closure of the four sugar estates or their loss of income. An additional 1,972 Amerindians were terminated by the APNU Government. She did not express any sympathy to their loss of income.

The income of those 7,000 workers would have been several times more than the $720M purported loss by APNU aligned workers. The overall effect of keeping the sugar estates running and all sugar workers in employment, as well as the dismissed Amerindians on payroll would have been substantial to the country’s economy. The collection of taxes and the spread effects of spending would have neutralised the subsidised costs of keeping the four estates running. The closure of the four estates led to depressed communities, suicides, rise in crimes, prostitution, alcoholism, domestic abuse, teenage pregnancy, and so many other social ills that cost the country much more

than the purported savings from the closure of shuttering the estates.

I should point out that around 1986, the PNC Government terminated some 2,000 bauxite workers, almost all being its supporters. There was muted protest over the loss of income. And it was around the same time when the PNC Government laid off over 6,000 public service workers. Protest was muted.

Perhaps it might be desirable if Parliament could consider how much political appointees are needed, and lay out clearly that their tenure ends when their party’s control of government ends. Of course political appointees may be retained by the incoming government if they do require. And political appointees must be informed as part of their contract that they serve only at the pleasure of the government that appoints them and that when the government loses power they should automatically tender their resignation, even if they were given a contract that extends beyond the life of the current government.

I must commend Mr Mark Kirton for automatically tendering his resignation when the APNU lost power in 2020. Others should have followed suit rather than be forced out.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 4, 2021

Measures to ‘stem tide’ of domestic violence coming

COME early next year, the government will be taking the proverbial bull by the horns and tabling a menu of legislative measures to help stem the tide of domestic violence here, Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Mohabir Anil Nandlall announced on Friday.

He made the welcome announcement during the opening of the novel Domestic Violence Interview and Virtual Hearing Rooms at the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court in New Amsterdam, seat of administration of the Ancient County of Berbice.

Among the measures at reference are the revamping of the Domestic Violence Act, and the tabling of the Sexual Harassment Law, and the innovative Restorative Justice Bill.

According to the Attorney-General, Restorative Justice is a new concept that seeks to go into the mind of the offender and examine the circumstances that may have precipitated him or her to act the way they did. “In so doing,” he said, “attempts will be made to try to implement the process of reform, so as to seek to address the sore issue, by removing them from the place of abode.

“And if the root problem is Domestic Violence, then there is a need to address that problem…”

As he went on to say, “Domestic Violence is a serious problem, but we continue to remain committed to stamping it out in every form and fashion that exist in our society.

But it cannot be a job for the government alone; it is too huge a problem that has crawled its way into all the crevices of our society and into our social life for it to be a government problem. It is a societal problem, but all of us must commit ourselves to

Helping Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall (second left) do the honours of declaring open the New Amsterdam hearing rooms are: Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards (left); and Ms. Patricia Gittens of UNICEF; Chief Justice Roxane George; and Her Worship, Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, third, second and first right respectively stamping it out.”

Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards, who was also at the function, acknowledged that domestic violence is underreported and transcends all barriers. And whereas a few men and women tend to come forward with reports, their engagement with the police or court reopens the traumas, and as such persons are reluctant to come forward.

She also noted that domestic violence is the least likely of the violent crimes to be reported to the police, and that if persons were to really come forward, then we may very well have a totally different and “very alarming” picture of what really obtains.

In terms of what the government has been doing so far to address the problem, Justice Cummings-Edwards said: “Recently, in conjunction with UNICEF, we partnered

with the University of Guyana for a training programme to build capacity of our staff, and to give us a better understanding of the issues that confront the virtual complainants and survivors.

We are seeking to have a hospitable court environment for both the complainant and the defendant, as there must be fairness to both parties.”

THE SPACE Describing the venue for the benefit of those at the opening ceremony, Justice Cummings-Edwards said: “With the new interview and virtual hearing rooms, victims can sit in the comfort of a room that is furnished with all modern amenities for testifying and their comfort.

“It includes television, audio visual recorders, sofas, microwave, fridge…

The defendant can see the virtual complainant, and also cross-examine,

as we are seeking to establish equal justice for all parties.”

Among those in attendance at the function were: Members of the Judiciary, the Magistracy, the Bar Association, the Guyana Police Force, along with the Mayors of Corriverton and New Amsterdam.

Earlier in the day, seven Virtual Hearing Rooms with child-friendly spaces outfitted with all modern amenities and costing approximately $700,000 each were opened at courthouses within the West Berbice Magisterial District, Corentyne Magisterial District, and the Berbice Magistrate District.

COVID deaths pass 1,000

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 4, 2021

- as Guyana braces for Omicron variant

G U YA N A h a s n o w passed the 1,000 mark for COVID-19 deaths, according to the daily COVID-19 dashboard published by the Ministry of Health.

The December 3 dashboard said Guyana now has 1,001 deaths from COVID-19. Taking the death toll to 1,001 are three men, all senior citizens. Two of them, 65 and 70, are fully vaccinated from Region 10. The other male, 59, from Region Two was unvaccinated.

The deadly COVID-19 pandemic was first discovered in Guyana in March 2020. Since then, there was an arduous election process that affected the responsiveness of Guyana’s public health system against the threat of the virus.

It was only after the change of government in August 2020 and the assumption of the Dr Irfaan Ali-led government that a

more holistic approach to managing the pandemic was undertaken.

That approach eventually culminated in the recent action by the President to allow the legallymandated Central Board of Health (CBH), headed by the Chief Medical Officer, to make national COVID-19 emergency measures.

During his daily COVID-19 press briefing earlier Friday, Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony, said there are 1,177 active COVID-19 cases with 519 persons in Region Four alone.

Overall, Guyana has thus far recorded 36,068 cases from 394,277 tests.

Region Six comes in second behind Region Four for administrative regions of specific concern to public health officials not only because of COVID-19 cases, but also because vaccination in this region has been

A health worker sanitises a public building in April 2020. (Adrian Narine/Guyana Chronicle) less than favourable.

The Health Minister raised this concern in previous daily updates but reminded on Friday that Region Six has 248 active COVID-19 cases.

Region Three has seen a decline in COVID-19 cases, according to Dr Anthony. It currently has 207 active COVID-19 cases.

So far, there are 64

persons hospitalised with COVID-19, according to figures provided by Dr Anthony. A large number of these hospitalised persons are pregnant women.

With the Omicron variant spiking in the global north, it is expected that global south countries like Guyana would be affected at some point.

Dr Anthony believes

there could be a risk of immunity evasion. The theory, he said, is now being tested as no country can confirm this yet.

CONFIDENT He is confident, however, that the Omicron variant could be more easily passed on between hosts.

The Health Minister urged persons to ensure they are in well-ventilated areas considering how easily the virus lingers and spreads.

He said: “It’s not only by droplets but this virus spreads by aerosols which means particles still remain suspended in the air you’re breathing for a much longer time.

“So somebody could have been there that got the virus, sneeze or something, and that remains suspended in the air.”

Some 736,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered thus far in Guyana, Dr Anthony noted. More than 2,000 booster shots have, thus far, been administered since the government recently opened the door for persons to access booster shots to complement their initial vaccines.

During a recent press conference of the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), the organisation’s head, Dr. Carissa Etienne, said even though COVID-19 cases have dropped significantly throughout the Latin

America and Caribbean (LAC) region, transmission remains high. “Every time we lower our guard, the virus gains momentum,” she told a virtual press conference on November 24.

Turning her attention to what is happening in Europe, Dr Etienne said: “Europe has been a window into the future for the Americas. Time and again, we have seen how the infection dynamics in Europe are mirrored here several weeks later. And over the last weeks, many European countries have reported record numbers of cases.”

The PAHO Director attributed the spike in cases to low vaccination rates, including in eastern Europe.

“We have been here before. Our region witnessed a large jump in new cases following last year ’s holiday season.

And it took months for countries to reduce the incidence of new cases,” Dr Etienne lamented.

She said we now have more tools to protect ourselves from the virus as she urged persons to get vaccinated and to observe COVID-19 emergency measures including wearing masks and avoiding large gatherings.

“These vaccines have helped to lower the hospital bed occupancy,” the PAHO Director added further.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 4, 2021

Inclusive, sustainable future for persons with disabilities –– remains a commitment by gov’t as Guyana recovers from COVID-19, says President

GREATER attention needs to be paid to protecting persons living with disabilities as Guyana recovers from COVID-19, President Ali said. Persons with disability are entitled to full benefits available to all citizens.

The President gave this assurance in a message on Friday to mark International Day for Persons with Disabilities 2021, which was also celebrated the world over on Friday.

In recognition of the day, messages were also issued by Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony; Chairman of the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons With Disabilities, Cecil Morris; and Chairman (ag) of the National Commission on Disability, Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon.

In his message, Dr. Ali highlighted his government’s commitment to finding sustainable solutions to the plight of Guyana’s disabled, with emphasis on empowering them economically and socially, enhancing their skills, supporting them with long-term social protection, and providing rehabilitative care where necessary.

“We are prepared to work with our most vulnerable to guarantee a greater role for them in decision-making, to generate their own pathways to personal development and to tap into their undervalued potential,” Dr. Ali said.

“As Guyana joins with the rest of the international community in observing International Day for Persons with Disabilities 2021, I

President Dr Irfaan Ali at a cocktail reception hosted by First Lady Arya Ali in observance of International Day of Persons with Disabilities at State House on Friday (Office of the President photo) once again assure the disabled that my government will work with them for an inclusive and sustainable future.”

He highlighted the right of disabled persons to fully benefit from all social measures available to citizens, including free education at all levels.

“They are entitled to free treatment at public health institutions, to apply for social protection and government house lots, and to enjoy freedom from discrimination in employment,” he said.

International Day for Persons with Disabilities was established by the United

Nations in 1992 with the aim to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development, and to increase awareness of the situation of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.

This year, the event is being observed under the theme, “Leadership and participation of Persons with Disabilities towards an inclusive, accessible and sustainable post COVID-19 world.”

According to UN statistics, over one billion people or approximately 15 per cent of the world’s population

Rickford Burke wanted by police for inciting racial hostility, public terror POLICE have issued a wanted bulletin for USbased political commentator and ally of the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC), Rickford Burke.

According to a Friday evening release, Burke is wanted for questioning in relation to a number of offenses including inciting racial hostility, sedition, seditious libel, using a computer to

coerce and intimidate, inciting provocation of a breach of the peace, and inciting public terror.

The Cyber Crime Act was passed under the previous APNU+AFC government and assented to by former President, David Granger. Despite public outcry against the potential of the sedition clause to silence critics of the then-government, former Public Security Minister,

WANTED: Rickford Burke Khemraj Ramjattan in 2018 had maintained the clause was necessary.

live with some form of a disability. According to the Ministry of Health (MoH), in Guyana approximately 50,000 persons or 6.4 per cent of our population are PWDs. Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony noted that the ministry this year donated several disability-accessible motor vehicles and hearing aids across the country to those in need.

The government, he said continues to strive to ensure that no PWDs are neglected.

Meanwhile, Morris in his message noted that while much has been done by the government to include PWDs, Guyana is still a far way from achieving full inclusion of PWDs in all areas of society.

He called for full implementation of the PWD Act 2010, in a timely manner, and highlighted how the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the circumstances of PWDs.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 4, 2021

Seven new tourism experiential tours launched DOMESTIC and international tourists now have a range of options after the

Ministry of Tourism Industry and Commerce, and the Guyana Tourism Author-

ity (GTA) launched seven new experiential tours to operate in various parts of

GTA Director (ag), Kamrul Baksh Guyana.

GTA’s acting Director, Kamrul Baksh, said the tours are in keeping with the brand pillars of nature and wildlife, culture and heritage, birding, active exploration and conservation.

“Experiential, is our unique value proposition that we have here…. The facets of experiential tourism are authenticity and that’s what you have clearly seen in all of these videos, you have also seen that it’s educational, you’ve seen that it’s participative, and those pillars are what we build pillars around.”

Baksh noted that the seven new products bring those pillars to life.

“That’s what differentiates our product from the competitors globally,” he continued.

He said while tourism products attract visitors, that is only part of the puzzle.

What is also needed is ensuring that the experiences before and after, are well

thought out.

“We want to bring more products to market and what I’m proud of, last year, we had three products. You heard it, this year, we’re launching seven, but what is even more remarkable, is the timeline in which the products have been developed,” Baksh said.

He noted that while indigenous communities take longer to develop their tourism products, this is changing. Moraikobai and Warapoka took about five years to develop their product while Santa Aratak and St Cuthbert’s Mission took a little over a year.

“Guyana Tourism Authority has led and will continue to lead on two core systems. One is the community owned and led tourism framework, which we have been championing for a number of years, which is why today, you see three indigenous communities being market-ready and also the

other system which is experiential framework in which we take ideas along with the private sector. We conceptualise ideas.”

The GTA also supports the necessary training in several areas like tour guide, culinary, and service delivery and all that is needed to ensure the products are ready.

“We’re not finished there as yet; we want to ensure that we market these products -- one for the domestic market which we are pushing very aggressively and also to the diaspora,” Baksh noted.

Meanwhile, GTA Product Development Manager, Candace Phillips, noted that while the team only comprises three persons, much work has been done to ensure that the products get to this stage.

The new tourism products are the Warapoka, Santa Aratak, St. Cuthbert’s Mission, Bimichi, Taste of Freedom, Fort Nassau and Canje Sunset Tours. (BBC)

Members of the Santa Aratak culture group performs a dance (DPI)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 4, 2021

10,000 Berbicians to benefit from new well

SOME 10,000 persons from Albion to Number One Village, served by the Fryish Well Station, will soon see an improvement in their water service. This is as the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) moves to drill a new well.

GWI Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Shaik Baksh; Executive Director of Operations, Jawaharall Ramjug, other GWI technical and regional officials on Friday, conducted several site visits with the aim of identifying a location for the new well, a release said.

The current well at Fryish is close to 50 years old and has begun to show signs of deterioration. According to Baksh, this has resulted in the well producing murky water, particularly when the well recommences pumping after a power outage.

GWI is currently seeking financial provision from the Government of Guyana for the new well,

GWI CEO, Shaik Baksh, and other technical officials, along with an NDC representative, survey a plot of land in Chesney, Berbice as it aims to begin drilling as early as this month (December).

“So it is imperative that GWI quickly endeavours to drill a new well for the residents to give them a good quality of water. We want to do this expeditiously,” the GWI CEO stated.

The team looked at a number of plots of land

within the Kilcoy/Chesney and Fryish areas, with Chesney showing more potential for drilling.

Also accompanying the GWI officials was Davanand Kasinath, a councillor of the Kilcoy/ Hampshire Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) and Evern Marks of the Fryish/ Gibraltar NDC.

Bask pointed out that GWI is working closely with the NDC officials to acquire the necessary approval to drill on the land.

A design is also in place for the well already.

As a more immediate solution, GWI has started to flush the water prior

distribution, in addition to the installation of a soft starter for the motor.

“When there’s a blackout we can start without interrupting or shaking up the casing of the well and this seems to be working right now and over the last two days the water has improved and we’re hoping to hold this position within the next two to three months,” Baksh explained.

Following the site visits, Baksh spoke with a number of residents who indicated that they have already seen improvements in the quality of their water, since the temporary interventions.

Drilling is expected to last for a period of three months, after which customers will benefit, the release said.

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$2.4B quarry project on the cards for Koetaru

By Jared Liddell

IN preparation for the anticipated increase in demand for aggregate from the emerging oil and gas sector and construction industry, local quarry developer, Romesh Kishun, has

embarked on the establishment of a $2.4 billion quarry project in Koetaru, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

According to the Institute of Quarrying, this activity involves the process of removing rock, sand, gravel, or other minerals

from the ground, to use them to produce materials for construction or other purposes.

Quarrying is any such work on the surface of the earth where minerals are extracted. Quarries are also known by other names around the world,

such as, surface mine, pit, and open pit, or open-cast mine.

The institute says that materials produced by quarrying are essential to everyday life, as they provide the construction materials needed to build roads and buildings, de-

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 4, 2021

liver vital minerals to agriculture, and support the generation of electricity among other things.

The proposed project site, which stretches 4,757 acres of land, is approximately 98.7 kilometers southwest of the capital city of Georgetown, with the closest town being Bartica, some 37.8 kilometers south, It is expected that the quarry will produce some 25,000 tonnes per month and 1,250 tonnes per day.

The main rock classification in the project area is gabbro. Gabbro is a medium-grained, dark-colored, intrusive igneous rock. It is usually black or dark green and composed mainly of the mineral’s plagioclase and augite.

The fact that the total average percentage components accounted for in the analyses is 99.37 per cent, the stone could be regarded as free of insoluble or organic materials, making it suitable for quarrying.

The total reserve will last for approximately five years of quarrying and production, based on the assumption that the proposed initial quarrying phase produces 1.5 million tonnes of granite stone material.

By deepening the quarry and extending it to the probable reserves in the southeast or to other reserves discovered by the drilling programme, the life of the quarry could be extended.

“It is estimated by C. Blackman 2020, that the Koetaru Quarry has over 7.5 million tonnes: gabbro mineable reserves at a stripping ratio of 0.160:1.

“Mining operations will continue to meet boulder production demands for sea defence works and local aggregate production demands.

The quarry will operate five days per week at single shifts of eight hours to produce 300,000 tons of gabbro annually,” the

company said.

The multi-billion-dollar investment will employ a minimum of 32 persons inclusive of managers, plant operators, pit maintenance, and engineers.

The project will see housing facilities made from local wood products and aggregate materials.

This will occur simultaneously with equipment mobilisation to the site. Local skills and labour will also be used for construction.

According to the project summary, a major point of concern is the environmental impact of the project. So, considering the potential impact, several measures to guard against any eventualities will be implemented.

Major investments in the quarrying sector are ideal, given that President Dr. Irfaan Ali had said that there is room for advancement in this area.

Speaking about the potential for advancement in the local quarrying industry, President Ali had said: “Guyana has a huge quarry potential that has been greatly underdeveloped. Our accelerated housing program, massive highways, and community roads to be developed will increase our demand three-fold over the next five years.”

To maximise local benefits, create jobs, and expand local content through this industry, the government is in the process of issuing new quarrying licenses, to fully satisfy local demand.

Last year, the mining and quarrying sector is estimated to have expanded by 303.7 per cent, and, based on available statistics, this sector is projected to grow by 39.1 per cent in 2021, driven by growth across all industries, namely, oil, gold, bauxite, and other mining and quarrying enterprises.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 4, 2021

Public support needed for teen with lupus, kidney failure WITH the support of her single-parent mother, sixteen-year-old Adaicia Semple is fighting lupus, an autoimmune disease which forces her body to fight itself. Everything aside, this glowing teen has plans for her life but needs support to offset major medical costs.

Lupus is a disease that occurs when your body’s immune system attacks your own tissues and organs (autoimmune disease). Inflammation caused by lupus can affect many different body systems — including your joints, skin, kidneys and other vital organs.

During a recent sit-down interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Adaicia shared how her life was turned upside down after her diagnosis last September.

“Before I was diagnosed with lupus, I was an athlete and I also loved to dance for church. I was also in a programme at school, the cadet programme. I love to watch TV (television) but ever since I was diagnosed with kidney failure, I don’t watch a lot of TV anymore because I does get a steady headache.”

Four months ago, doctors discovered both of her kidneys had failed and she was placed on dialysis.

University of Guyana.

“I would like to become a lawyer. I would like to study criminal law, “ she said adding that her mind is set on attending President’s College as law is offered at the Sixth Form level.

Meanwhile, the teen’s teary-eyed mother, Ulex Semple, told the Guyana Chronicle that it pains her

Adaicia Semple before her lupus diagnosis The teen noted that the support and prayers from her friends, coupled with the support of her mother and other family members have gotten her through the tough times.

Despite her illness, Adaicia has managed to keep an ‘upbeat’ spirit and is optimistic about her full recovery.

The young woman said she hopes to one day pursue studies in criminal law, an interest she attributed to the likeness she has for solving puzzles and mysteries.

Once recovered, Adaicia hopes to complete her secondary education at the Berbice High School where she is currently a fourth form student and to further her studies at President’s College and the

Adaicia and her mother, Ulex Semple greatly to see her daughter suffering from such agonizing pain.

The woman described her daughter as a humble and bright child, who always completes a task given to her.

Ulex stated that before her kidney failure diagnosis, Adaicia was doing well and

Guyanese among five held in Barbados marijuana 'bust' FOUR Guyanese and a Barbadian were arrested in the Land of the Flying Fish with a quantity of marijuana in their possession.

According to news outlet Barbados Today, security forces detained the group of men in a counter-narcotics operation more than a week ago in Barbados’ territorial waters.

The joint counter-narcotics operation netted four Guyanese and a Barbadian, along with the boat which was allegedly used to transport marijuana to Barbados.

Acting Lieutenant Commander of the Barbados Coast Guard, Derek Brathwaite, said that the operation which was conducted on November 24 – but only now being made public – involved teams from the coast guard, the Police Drug Squad and other agencies.

“On November 24, the

The Barbados Coast Guard Royal Barbados Police Force, the Barbados Coast Guard and other agencies participated in a joint counter-narcotics operation off the coast of Barbados which resulted in the seizure of contraband, the detaining of five individuals, one Barbadian and four persons identified as nationals of Guyana and one vessel,” Lt Commander Brathwaite told Barbados Today, Thursday evening.

He said that all other information related to this seizure would have to be provided by the police who have taken over the case for investigations and any possible prosecution.

Head of Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit, James Singh noted that his agency has been in contact with the Barbadian authorities and they are collaborating on the investigations.

preparing to return to school.

“I went out and I passed the school and I saw kids them going to school and she is not, it really hurts, “she added.

The teen’s father will be donating one of his kidneys, but the family needs financial

assistance to offset the cost of a cross-match test before the surgery can be done.

The test will cost over $US3,000 and will have to be done in Miami, Florida.

Additionally, the family is looking for assistance to offset the cost of dialysis

treatment until the surgery is performed. The teen currently requires dialysis three times a week and each session costs $12,000.

Persons who wish to assist Adaicia can contact her mother on 6698529 or 6742453.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 4, 2021

GDF Christmas celebration begins at Eteringbang

Chief of Staff, Brigadier Godfrey Bess serves lunch to the ranks at the location CHRISTMAS at the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) got off to a

bright start with the traditional Soldiers Day celebration for troops serving at the border location of Eteringbang, on Thursday.

Chief of Staff, Brigadier Godfrey Bess and team took Christmas cheer to the soldiers and thanked them for their service throughout the year.

Brigadier Bess acknowledged that troops serving on the borders are the frontliners and the force is grateful for the level of commitment and professionalism they continue to portray.

“Being away from family at this time of year is in itself a sacrifice that

you make for your country to ensure that the nation’s territorial integrity is maintained. On behalf of the entire nation, I express our thanks to you and I wish you all a peaceful and safe Christmas season,” he stated.

The Chief of Staff also urged the soldiers to continue to maintain and observe COVID-19 protocols.

Together with the members of the visiting team, Brigadier Bess served lunch to the soldiers and their guests who comprised ranks of the Guyana Police Force and residents of the surrounding community.

Cocaine in rum shipment did not originate from Guyana – says GRA

The packages containing cocaine found within the shipment of rum in the container THE container of rum and transited to another Car- images by officers of the that was intercepted in ibbean territory, where it sister agencies and backup t h e N e t h e r l a n d s w i t h was offloaded and remained checks thereafter prior to more than 1,100 pounds for a period before it was shipping. of cocaine recently, was loaded onto another vessel “GRA also wishes to scanned before it left Guy- destined for the Netherlands, advise that such images ana and no drugs or any where the discovery was are stored and backed up other illegal or restricted made,” the GRA stated. at various sites thereby substance were found onThe GRA emphasised reducing the likelihood of board, the Guyana Reve- that through joint enforce- a repeat of the deletion of nue Authority (GRA) said. ment and intelligence activi- images. The GRA is also The tax body, in a state- ties with the Customs Anti- willing to have reporters ment issued on Friday, noted Narcotics Unit (CANU) and attached to media houses that the consignment, which other local and foreign law view such images and will originated in Guyana, was enforcement bodies, systems shortly upon the official scanned in Guyana accord- have been put in place to opening of the relocating to the stipulated pro- ensure rigid control, thereby able scanner allow media cedures and no contraband reducing the probability representatives to view or prohibited/restricted of narcotic substances be- the scanning process. The substances were detected ing exported or transhipped GRA also advises of conamong the said cargo when through Guyana’s ports. tinued investigations with scanned.

This process, the GRA its local and foreign sister “The consignment was added, allows for simultane- Agencies,” the tax agency shipped to the Netherlands ous viewing of the scanned stated.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 4, 2021

Hinterland community leaders being trained in village-building Amerindian Affairs Minister, Pauline Sukhai, along with village leaders and other officials (DPI photo) AMERINDIAN Affairs ation training programme for “So, we are preparing Minister, Pauline Sukhai, village leaders from Regions the ground for development said the government is Four, Five, Six and 10, at the of the human resource in working to develop its hu- National Exhibition Centre, the hinterland, to take up man resources in hinter- Sophia. the challenge of moving land communities, which “We have to train our your community and your will enable village leaders people to ensure that they are location forward as we proto align their communities adequately equipped to take gress,” Minister Sukhai said. with the developments tak- on the task of village buildShe said she is pleased ing place countrywide. ing. If you build your village that hinterland leaders now The minister was speak- in a sustainable way, you’ll have opportunities for training at the commencement be able to contribute also to ing, especially on how to betceremony of a two-day medi- nation building. ter manage and resolve issues

Pensioner charged for conning man out of $1.5M

A SIXTY-NINE-year-old Operation Manager was, on Friday, released on $250,000 bail by City Magistrate, Dylon Bess, after he denied that took $1.5 million from a man and failed to deliver a vehicle to him.

Robert Ramdass of Second Street, Herstel-

ling, East Bank Demerara, pleaded not guilty to the charge which alleged that between May 1, 2021 and November 30, 2021, at Robb Street, Georgetown, while being solely entrusted by Rasheed Bispat with the sum of $1,585,000 to deliver a new model X-Trail Vehicle,

he fraudulently converted the sum to his own use and benefit.

Wi t h n o o b j e c t i o n raised by the police prosecutor, Magistrate Bess re l e a s e d R a m a d a s o n $250,000 bail and adjourned the matter until January 13, 2022.

Second suspect charged for D’Urban Street arson

A NINETEEN-year-old construction worker, on Friday, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, on three counts of arson and was released on $1.9 million bail.

Anthony Sookhoo also called “Vishal” denied the charges when they were read to him by Magistrate Dylon Bess. The case was adjourned until January 13, 2022.

The first charge states that on June 24, 2021, at Lot 1 George and D’Urban S t r e e t s , We r k - e n - R u s t , Georgetown, he unlawfully and maliciously set fire to a building valued at $38M, property of Nalini Baboolall, and articles valued at $10M belonging to Kevin Phillips.

The second charge states that on the same day and at the said location, Sookhoo unlawfully and maliciously set fire to a building valued at $150M and articles valued at $30M, property of Hardat Maniram.

According to the third charge, on the same day

and at the said location, he unlawfully and maliciously set fire to a dwelling house valued at $18M and articles valued at $6M, property of Colin Bentley.

According to reports, the fire left 18 persons homeless, including 12 Venezuelan migrants, and Kevin Phillips, the owner of the vulcanising shop where the fire is suspected to have started.

According to Phillips, he was awakened around 01:00 hours on the day in question by the incessant barking of his dogs. Upon investigation, he saw two male cyclists making their way from the side of his property. Upon making checks, he noticed that the building was on fire.

While the firefighters managed to contain the blaze after arriving on scene, the western wall of the Elegance Jewellery and Pawn Shop, located on D’Urban Street, between Camp and George Anthony Sookhoo Streets was damaged.

In July, Calvin Law- charged in connection with rence, a 22-year-old Leo- the arson. Sookhoo was arpold Street resident was rested recently by police.

in their villages.

“To see leaders who have been elected to serve the village from which they come having access not only to training, but you’ll be having access to information in a much more tangible and sustained way in the near future.”

Some 40 hinterland leaders have participated in the training. Minister Sukhai is encouraging them to share the knowledge gained with members of their community. She said they will now be able to better solve issues in their villages, in an unbiased and fair manner.

(DPI)

Amerindian Affairs Minister, Pauline Sukhai, presenting one of the village leaders with a certificate (DPI photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 4, 2021

FAO Food Price Index rises in November

THE barometer of food commodity prices in international markets rose for the fourth consecutive month in November, led by strong demand for wheat and dairy products, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has reported.

The FAO Food Price Index averaged 134.4 points in the month, its

highest level since June 2011 and 1.2 per cent higher than during October. The index, which tracks monthly changes in the international prices of commonly-traded food commodities, was 27.3 per cent higher than its level in November 2020.

The FAO Dairy Price Index led November ’s aggregate rise, increasing by 3.4 per cent from the previous month. Strong

global import demand persisted for butter and milk powders as buyers sought to secure spot supplies in anticipating of tightening markets.

The FAO Cereal Price Index increased by 3.1 per cent in November from the previous month and was 23.2 per cent higher than its year-ago level. Maize export prices rose slightly and international rice prices re-

Harvesting wheat in the Russian Federation (FAO photo) mained broadly steady, while wheat prices hit their highest level since May 2011. The increase reflected strong demand amid tight supplies, especially of higher quality wheat, while prices were also supported by concerns about untimely rains in Australia and uncertainty regarding potential changes to export measures in the Russian Federation.

The FAO Sugar Price Index was 1.4 per cent higher in November than in October and nearly 40 per cent above its level in November 2020. The increase was primarily driven by higher ethanol prices, though large shipments from India and a positive outlook for sugar exports by Thailand tempered the upward pressure on quotations.

The FAO Vegetable Oil Price Index declined by 0.3 per cent from a record high reached in October, reflecting lower values for soy and rapeseed oils as well as lower crude oil prices. International palm oil prices remained firm.

The FAO Meat Price Index decreased by 0.9 per cent, its fourth consecutive monthly decline.

Influenced by reduced purchases of pig meat

by China led to lower international quotations, while ovine prices also fell steeply on increased exportable supplies from Australia. Bovine and poultry meat prices were

largely stable.

RECORD CEREAL PRODUCTION FAO’s new Cereal Supply and Demand Brief, also published on Thursday, forecasts world cereal production at 2 791 million tonnes in 2021, a new record and 0.7 per cent higher than the previous year. Compared to 2020, worldwide coarse grains and rice outputs are expected to increase, respectively, by 1.4 per cent and 0.9 per cent, while that for wheat to drop by 1.0 per cent.

World cereal utilisation in 2021/22 is forecast to rise by 1.7 per cent to 2 810 million tonnes, while world cereal stocks by the close of seasons in 2022 are predicted to decline by 0.9 per cent form opening levels. The consequent stocks-to-use ratio of 28.6 per cent “would still indicate a comfortable supply situation overall,” according to FAO. FAO forecasts global trade in cereals in 2021/22 to increase by 0.7 per cent to 480 million tonnes, with an anticipated 2.2per cent expansion in world wheat trade more than offsetting a likely contraction in coarse grains trade.

CROP PRODUCTION TO FALL Conflicts and drought are exacerbating food insecurity conditions in several parts of the world, particularly in East and West Africa, according to the latest Crop Pros-

pects and Food Situation Report, also released on Thursday. FAO assesses that globally 44 countries, including 33 in Africa, nine in Asia and two in Latin America and the Caribbean, are in need of external assistance for food.

The 44 countries in need of external assistance for food are: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Guinea, Haiti, Iraq, Kenya, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syrian Arab Republic, Uganda, United Republic of Tanzania, Venezuela, Yemen, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

The quarterly report also provides updates on cereal harvest trends, forecasting production in 2022 to grow by 2.0 per cent in developed countries but slightly contracting by 0.1 per cent in developing countries. For Low-Income Food Deficit Countries, the contraction is expected to be 2.4 per cent, due to significant drops foreseen in Near East and East Africa. (FAO)

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Sri Lanka down West Indies 2-0 Hamilton quickest (ESPNCRICINFO) – Ramesh Mendis struck early in the day to remove Kraigg Brathwaite, claimed three wickets in a single over during the middle session then completed his second five-wicket haul of the match, while Lasith Embuldeniya also took five at the other end.

Between the two finger-spinners, they dismissed West Indies for 132 inside 56 overs. Sri Lanka's winning margin was 164. Having now whitewashed this opposition, they take 100% of the World Test Championship points on offer for this series.

West Indies had needed to bat out 93 overs after Sri Lanka declared their innings 2.4 overs into the day.

Although during times in the morning session it seemed as if they were going to make the hosts toil, West Indies fell away rapidly after lunch, losing their last eight wickets for 40 runs, in the space of 13 overs. An awful shot from Shai Hope had sparked that collapse. Spotting a long-hop from Mendis, Hope went back to pull it, but hit it directly to the square leg fielder, who took it at belly height. Hope could have put that ball away anywhere on the legside.

Next delivery, Mendis had Roston Chase caught at short leg - Oshada Fernando reacting lightning quick to hold a low chance as Chase attempted to clip the ball to leg.

Mendis missed out on a hat-trick for the third time in the series when he spun one past the bat of Kyle Mayers, but Mayers lasted only three more deliveries anyway, sending a catch to Dhananjaya de Silva at slip.

The remaining wickets almost seemed like a formality. Embuldeniya imposed himself on West Indies' lower order, first having Jason Holder caught at slip, much in the same way he'd had the more stubborn Jermaine Blackwood out, just before lunch. Nkrumah Bonner was then out chopping back onto the stumps.

Kemar Roach struck three boundaries, but he was out lbw to Embuldeniya, before Verassammy Permaul fell in a similar fashion, and Jomel Warrican lasted just three balls before giving another catch to de Silva at slip. This was the dismissal that sealed the game.

Earlier, Blackwood and Bonner had resisted for 23 overs together, surviving

several close calls and one dropped catch, but Sri Lanka's spinners were relentless on a surface that substantially favoured them, even if it wasn't quite unplayable.

Blackwood batted out 92 balls, and Bonner, who was around well into the second session, played out 143, and can easily claim to be West Indies' most dogged batter of the series, even if there wasn't a lot of competition for that title.

Mendis' five wickets in the second dig meant he took 11 for 136 for the game - easily his best figures, in a fourmatch career so far. He took 17 wickets for the series, and now has 26 Test victims all up, at an average of 21.53.

To begin the day, Sri Lanka's 10th-wicket pair had struck 17 runs in 2.4 overs until Embuldeniya - the primary aggressor on day five - was bowled by Holder. Dhananjaya de Silva had added two to his overnight score, to finish on 155 not out.

in Saudi second practice

(BBC) - Ferrari's Charles Leclerc emerged unscathed from a 150mph crash as Lewis Hamilton ended practice fastest at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

Leclerc lost control at Turn 22, a corner identified by drivers as one of the biggest challenges on the new Jeddah street circuit.

The crash, which badly damaged the Ferrari, brought the session to a premature end with five minutes to go.

Hamilton was 0.195 seconds quicker than title rival Max Verstappen in fourth.

The Dutchman leads Hamilton by eight points with two races of the season remaining.

The championship fight hangs in the balance, but in the context of each driver's title hopes, it is more SRI LANKA 1st innings 204 important for Hamilton to win in WEST INDIES 1st innings 253 Saudi Arabia than Verstappen.

SRI LANKA 2nd innings 345-9 decl.

WEST INDIES 2nd innings (target: 297 runs) If Verstappen beats Hamilton, the Mercedes driver would need the Kraigg Brathwaite lbw b Mendis 6 Dutchman to hit trouble in the final Jermaine Blackwood c de Silva b Embuldeniya 36 race in Abu Dhabi to overhaul him.

Nkrumah Bonner b Embuldeniya 44 Shai Hope c Lakmal b Mendis 16 But Verstappen can afford to finish Roston Chase c Fernando b Mendis 0 second behind Hamilton in Jeddah Kyle Mayers c de Silva b Mendis 0 and still be more or less level on Jason Holder c de Silva b Embuldeniya 3 points.

Joshua Da Silva not out 4 Seven-time champion Hamilton Kemar Roach lbw b Embuldeniya 13 was 0.061secs ahead of team-mate Veerasammy Permaul lbw b Mendis 1 Valtteri Bottas. Alpha Tauri's Pierre Jomel Warrican c de Silva b Embuldeniya 3 Gasly was third, 0.081secs off the pace.

Extras: (b-4, lb-2) 6 Total: (all out, 56.1 overs) 132 Leclerc was taken to the medical Fall of wickets: 1-15, 2-65, 3-92, 4-92, 5-92, 6-103, 7-108, 8-128, 9-129. centre for routine checks after the Bowling: Embuldeniya 20.1-6-35-5, Mendis 25-6-66-5, Jayawickrama accident, but was soon released.

10-3-23-0, Asalanka 1-0-2-0.

Ferrari checked the car and Result: Sri Lanka won by 164 runs power-unit and said they would Series: Sri Lanka won two-match series 2-0 have been able to use them again Man-of-the-Match: Dhananjaya de Silva yesterday.

Man-of-the Series: Ramesh Mendis Unusually, neither Mercedes driver set their best 08:40 hrs Shirocco’s time on the 'soft' tyre, Dream American Racing Tips while Verstappen 09:15 hrs Kamaxos Aqueduct did, but could only

SCOREBOARD

South Africa Racing Tips Kenilworth 08:15 hrs Captain’s Ransom 08:50 hrs Crome Yellow 09:25 hrs Desert Miracle 10:00 hrs Vernichey 10:35 hrs Rainbow Bridge 11:10 hrs Rio Querari 11:40 hrs Sage King English Racing Tips Wetherby 08:27 hrs Little Orange 09:02 hrs Mister Sweets 09:37 hrs Saint Palais 10:12 hrs Haafapiece 10:47 hrs Greyville 11:22 hrs Chic Avenue Sandown

09:50 hrs Third Time Lucky 10:25 hrs Chacun Pour Soi 11:00 hrs Larry 11:35 hrs Metier

Aintree 08:55 hrs Galahad Quest 09:30 hrs White Pepper 10:05 hrs Protektorat 10:40 hrs Vieux Lion Rouge 11:15 hrs Tamar Bridge Irish Racing Tips Navan 08:33 hrs Eric Bloodaxe 09:05 hrs Coventry 09:43 hrs Riviere D’Etel 10:18 hrs Ashdale Bob 10:53 hrs Wa Wa 11:28 hrs Killer Mode

Race 1 Fenwick Race 2 Robyn And Eli Race 3 Cucina Race 4 Runningforhome Race 5 Rosebug Race 6 Fiery Heart Race 7 Truth Hurts REace 8 Mo Donegal Race 9 Tap The Faith Race10 Americanrevolution

Canadian Racing Tips Woodbine Race 1 Pictureday Jessica Race 2 Mister Oakley Race 3 Lake Shore Drive Race 4 Redoute’s Light Race 5 Lucky Luke Race 6 Sir For Sure Race 7 Beat The System

improve very slightly from his best on the medium.

Both top teams seemed to be struggling to get the soft to work.

Verstappen was also complaining about the behaviour of the front end of his car.

Hamilton said he had enjoyed his first experience of the circuit, which has several sequences of high-speed ess-bends with hairpins at either end, or a slow chicane to start the lap.

"Rapid," he said. "Unbelievably quick. It really is incredibly fast and a lot of grip. If you get the rhythm it's a beautiful track.

"The medium and the hard tyre were faster than the soft. The soft is probably a little bit too soft for the high-speed sections. It seems like the tyre is giving up a bit.

"I'm generally happy. I made some changes between the sessions.

I'm not sure which one I want to stay with. We will study it tonight and try to make sure we have the right set-up for tomorrow.

"We are not rapid on a single lap I would say compared to the others, but the long-run pace seemed like it was not too bad.

"Over a single lap they (Red Bull) are quite quick so we have a bit of work to do."

Red Bull appeared a long way behind Mercedes when the teams simulated race-distance high-fuel running later in the session.

On average lap time over their runs, Verstappen was more than a second slower than Hamilton using the same tyre.

On both short and long runs, the Mercedes was gaining on the straights and in the slow first chicane, while the Red Bull gained back time in the quick left-right at Turns Seven and Eight.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday December 04, 2021)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Jeff Dujon-270 dismissals (265 catches; 5 stumpings) (2) Prasanna Jayawardene-156 dismissals (124 catches; 32 stumpings) Today’s Quiz: (1) What was the result of the second Test of the recent series between the WI & SL? (2) Who was voted Man of the Match?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

33

GUYANA CHRONICLE. Saturday, December 4, 2021

Fitness Express joins GFF end-of-year tournament sponsors

FITNESS Express has joined the growing corporate community of sponsors to support the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) year-end trio of tournaments, with donation of hampers containing fitness products to enhance players’ preparations for the return of senior competitive football.

Fitness Express manager and owner, Jamie McDonald, said he was happy to offer his support to football, especially since more and more players were using fitness supplements to optimise their performance on the pitch.

“Over the last 10 to 11 years, Fitness Express has had a rich heritage of giving to the powerlifting, bodybuilding and strength sports, but over the last four or five years, a lot of footballers and endurance athletes have been coming in for supplements,” McDonald said.

“I feel that we need to give back support to the footballers who are using supplements day in and day out, so we are really happy to be on board for this tournament this year – to start now and maybe do a little bit more in the future,” he said.

Accepting the hampers on behalf of the GFF, Assistant

Technical Director, Bryan Joseph, offered his sincere thanks to Fitness Express for coming on board to support the return to play.

“This year, we have three tournaments running simultaneously, so it’s a huge event for us,” Joseph said. “I’m happy to hear that footballers are coming into the store now to buy supplements because the name itself – Fitness Express – is so connected to the sport, where fitness is such a major part of everything we do.”

“Thanks again for coming on board in such a big way, and we look forward to developing this partnership as we go forward into a new year,” he said.

The GFF-K&S Super 16 Cup is scheduled to be held over the period December 12 to January 1, the GFF Women’s Super 16 Festival 2021 over the period December 11 to January 2 and the GFF-K&S Futsal Championship over the period December 14 to January 8.

Matches will be played in venues across the country, including in Georgetown, Buxton, St Cuthbert’s Mission, Providence, Leonora, Linden, New Amsterdam, Bartica, and Essequibo.

ExxonMobil National Indoor Hockey Championships …

GBTI GCC Roulettes win ‘battle of the undefeated’ THE battle between the two undefeated ladies’ sides was a spirited and intense affair. The GBTI GCC Roulettes and GCC Ignite took to the court, each with two wins and no loss under their belt up to that moment.

The Roulettes fired the first shot with an opening-minute stunner by Abosaide Cadogan through a penalty corner.

Makeda Harding bullied her way into the circle and evened the score at 1, four minutes later, but Leo Berlie produced a brilliant piece of stickwork in a solo goal to give Roulette a 2-1 half-time lead.

The second half saw Roulette tighten the screws on the match as Cadogan scored her second penalty corner in the 30th minute and Shebiki Baptiste the final Roulette goal in the 33rd minute for a 4-1 Roulette victory.

The other ladirs’ clash of the evening saw GCC Spartans earn their first victory by holding off Saints, 2-0. Captain Gabriella Xavier was once again on the scoreboard for Spartans and this time she was joined by Vanessa Pires with a field goal.

Pepsi Hikers continued their dominant performance in the men’s first division, this time routing YMCA Old Fort, 11-0. Tournament-leading scorer Aroydy Branford was on target four times while Robert France scored a hattrick for the Hikers.

50 Not Out surprised the youthful Saints with a 4-2 victory - the first of

the competition for 50 Not Out. Veteran striker Philip Fernandes was the leading goalscorer for the 50s with a hat-trick while his brother Alan added a fourth.

GCC Pitbulls and YMCA Old Fort both chalked up wins in the men’s second division competition to draw within one of the Hikers Cadets in the points standing. Pitbulls enjoyed a surprise 5-1 win over Saints Scorpions who had been having good performances up to this point.

It was not a good night for Saints as the YMCA Old Fort also defeated Saints Sensations by 3-1 in the other second division clash.

Points standing: Men’s First Division: Pepsi Hikers 12, Bounty GCC 6, Guyana 40s 4, 50 Not Out 3, Saints 2, YMCA Old Fort 1 Women’s Division: GCC Roulettes 9, GCC Ignite 6, GCC Spartans 3, Saints 3, Misfits 0 Men Second Division: Hikers Cadets 7, YMCA Old Fort 6, GCC Pitbulls 6, Saints Scorpions 4, Saints Sensations 3, GCC War Dogs 0 Full Results are as follows: MALE Division 50 Not Out defeat Saints, 4-2 Goals: 50 Not Out (4) – Philip Fernandes 3, Alan Fernandes 1 Saints (2) – Baraka Garnett 1, Hilmar Chester 1 Pepsi Hikers crushed YMCA Old

Fort,11-0 Goals: Pepsi Hikers (11) – Aroydy Branford 4, Robert France 3, Randy Hope 1, Jamarj Assanah 1, Orlando Machado 1, Rayon Branford 1 FEMALE Division GCC Spartans blanked Saints, 2-0 Goals: GCC Spartans (2) – Vanessa Pires 1, Gabriella Xavier 1 GCC Roulettes beat GCC Ignite, 4-1 Goals: GCC Roulette (4) – Abosaide Cadogan 2, Leo Berlie 1, Shebiki Baptiste 1 GCC Ignite (1) – Makeda Harding 1 MALE Second Division YMCA Old Fort defeated Saints Sensations by 3-1 Goals: YMCA Old Fort (3) – Shaquon Favorite 3 Saints Scorpions (1) – Naresh Mahadeo 1 Bounty GCC Pitbulls thrashed Saints Scorpions, 5-1 Goals: Bounty GCC Pitbulls (5) – Meshach Sargeant 3, Samuel Woodroffe 1, Lennox Carrol 1 Saints Scorpions (1) – Baraka Garnett 1 Games continue all week in the evenings from 17:00hrs and conclude on the weekend beginning at 15:00hrs on those days.

34

GUYANA CHRONICLE. Saturday, December 4, 2021

Hero CPL, SAYTV create Nandu, Thorne named in U-19 squad for World Cup Live Chat App THE Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) recently partnered with SAYTV to create a market -eading live chat app for cricket-lovers to discuss the Hero CPL and the other cricketing events around the world all year round.

Although fans can use the app to chat with other users at anytime, the first feature event taking place in the app will be a Q&A session with cricket legend and Hero CPL’s Director, International Cricket, Tom Moody.

He will be joining CPL chat app users to talk about the India vs New Zealand Test series, the Big Bash T20 tournament in Australia and the Abu Dhabi T10 on December 5, 2021 during the Big Bash match between Sydney Sixers and Melbourne Stars which gets underway at 08:15hrs GMT. SAYTV was launched into the German market in March 2021 with the intention of making an all-in-one social chat platform for everything TV-related while ensuring an inclusive and friendly chat community welcoming everyone.

Since then, the company has begun entering partnerships to create state-of-the-art live chat and entertainment technology for their clients.

SAYTV provides an easy to navigate app interface with engaging community

features such as Quiz, breakout rooms, loyalty badges and more. A fully developed in-app store gives the opportunity to offer CPL specific emoticons, avatars, and custom wallpapers to give fans a truly immersive experience.

Paula Raithel, SAYTV’s co-founder and CMO, said: “SAYTV provided the official live chat app for the CPL T20 tournament in August 2021. The collaboration was a tremendous success. Within a few days the CPL Chat App gathered an amazing Cricket community, sharing their thoughts and celebrating together.

“Now looking forward to the future, we are excited to announce that the CPL and SAYTV have entered into a long-term partnership to provide CPL fans worldwide with a safe, inclusive, fun experience chat app.”

Chris Watson. Hero CPL’s Head of Marketing, said: “We are always striving to bring our fans closer to the action and provide a way for them to engage with the league on a year-round basis.

“SAYTV’s fantastic chat app allows you to do just that. We were delighted with the success of the live chat app during this year’s tournament, and we are very much looking forward to this long-term partnership.”

MP Jafferally, Foster engage in fruitful talks

Member of Parliament Faizal Jafferally and BCB president Hilbert Foster recently held fruitful talks

BERBICE Cricket Board (BCB) president Hilbert Foster and Member of Parliament, Faizal Jafferally, have paved the way forward as they seek to further help develop cricket in the Ancient County.

The MP recently informed Foster that he was able to obtain funds for an Under-17 tournament for teams in the West Berbice area.

Mrs Gomatti Latchman of Latchman Construction and Landscaping, of Bath

Settlement, would be sponsoring the 2022 tournament at a cost of $200 000.

Several teams in the area are expected to play in the tournament. BCB and Foster would like to express thanks to Mr Jafferally for his support of our work.

He is a fine example as a Member of Parliament, committed to assisting our efforts. The MP has also committed to assist in obtaining an U-15 sponsor for the area.

(PRESS RELEASE) - The Cricket West Indies (CWI) Selection Panel announced the West Indies Rising Stars U19s 15-member squad and five reserves for the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup to be played in the West Indies in January-February 2022.

The squad will be led by Ackeem Auguste, the left-handed middle-order batsman, with all-rounder Giovonte Depeiza, as the vice-captain. They were also at the helm during the six-match Youth One-Day International Series in England in September. The players were selected following the recent high performance camp and preparation matches which featured 28 players at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua.

The West Indies Rising Stars U19s have been drawn in Group D alongside Australia, Scotland and Sri Lanka for the 16-team tournament which will be played from January 14 to February 5. Matches will be played in Antigua & Barbuda, Trinidad & Tobago, St Kitts & Nevis, and Guyana.

Before the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup, a five-match warm-up series is being planned with details to be announced in coming days.

Lead Selector Robert Haynes said: “Overall, the selectors are very pleased with what we have been seeing from these players and we expect some very exciting cricket in the World Cup. “The batting is solid, our concern coming out of the tour of England was the middle-order, but we saw some really good performances in the camp and some very good partnerships. The bowling is very good, and we think we have the right combination of spinners and fast bowlers.

“This is a balanced squad and the players are very excited. It is now for these youngsters to go out and put on display what they learnt in the camps which were organised for their benefit.”

Haynes added: “I must also commend the coaching staff and everyone involved in getting these young cricketers prepared for this level of competition. It has not been an easy task with the COVID-19 pandemic in our midst, but we have overcome several hurdles and have a team which is well organised and ready for the challenges ahead.”

Head coach Floyd Reifer said: “Coming out of the last camp in Antigua, we have seen a lot of improvement and development in the players, and we came up with a very good squad.

“I’m confident that we have a well-balanced team going into the World Cup, and we have the team to do very well in the tournament. We have a lot of talented players and what we are working on is the tactical side of our preparations. We have batters who can bowl well and bowlers who can bat as well, so we have a good balance.”

Captain Ackeem Auguste said: “It is a special honour to be named to captain the West Indies team. To represent the people of our region is a special privilege and it’s a really exciting time for me and my team-mates and we know this is a great opportunity on the international stage. We had the tour of England earlier this year and that was a good

experience for all of us.

“I learned a lot about leadership on that tour and I would say I have grown since then. We have worked hard to reach this stage and we are ready ahead of the World Cup.” FULL SQUAD: Ackeem Auguste (captain) – left-hand bat, Giovonte Depeiza (vice-captain) - right-hand bat/left-arm spin, Onaje Amory – right-hand bat/right-arm off-spin, Teddy Bishop – right-hand bat, Carlon Bowen-Tuckett – right-hand bat/ wicket-keeper, Jaden Carmichael – righthand bat/left-arm spin, McKenny Clarke – right-hand bat/right-arm fast, Rivaldo Clarke – right-hand bat/wicketkeeper, Jordan Johnson – left-hand bat/right-arm leg-spin, Johann Layne – right-hand bat/right-arm fast, Anderson Mahase – left-hand bat/ left-arm spin, Matthew Nandu – left-hand opening bat/right-arm leg-spin, Shaqkere Parris – right-hand opening bat, Shiva Sankar – right-hand bat/right-arm medium-fast, Isai Thorne – right-hand bat/right-arm fast.

Reserves: Anderson Amurdan – righthand opening bat, Nathan Edward – lefthand bat/left-arm fast-medium, Andel Gordon – left-hand bat/left-arm medium-fast, Vasant Singh – right-hand bat/right-arm leg-spin, Kevin Wickham – right-hand bat/ right-arm wrist-spin, ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Groupings: Group A – Bangladesh, England, Canada, United Arab Emirates Group B – India, Ireland, South Africa, Uganda Group C – Afghanistan, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Zimbabwe Group D – Australia, Scotland, Sri Lanka, West Indies ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Venues: St Kitts & Nevis – Warner Park Cricket Stadium, Conaree Cricket Centre, (Sandy Point - Warm-up match venue only) Guyana – Guyana National Stadium, (Everest Cricket Club - Warm-up match venue only) Trinidad & Tobago – Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Queen’s Park Oval, Diego Martin Sporting Complex Antigua & Barbuda – Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Coolidge Cricket Ground West Indies Rising Stars U19s World Cup match schedule January 14 – v Australia at Guyana National Stadium January 17 – v Scotland at Warner Park Cricket Stadium, St Kitts & Nevis January 21 – v Sri Lanka at Conaree Cricket Centre, St Kitts &d Nevis Plate and Super League fixtures will take place between January 25 and February 4 at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Coolidge Cricket Ground, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Queen’s Park Oval and Diego Martin Sporting Complex.

February 1 – Semi-Final, Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Antigua & Barbuda February 2 – Semi-Final, Coolidge Cricket Ground, Antigua & Barbuda February 5 – Final, Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Antigua & Barbuda

GUYANA CHRONICLE. Saturday, December 4, 2021

DeSinco Ltd donates footballs to EBFA clubs, St. Cuthbert’s Mission “We have been following the progress of the East Bank Football Association (EBFA) and the work you have been doing for quite a few years now and I must say it is very commendable, to the extent that we have made a decision to donate much-needed footballs to your clubs.”

The words of Managing Director of DeSinco Ltd, Frank DeAbreu, to (EBFA) vice-president Clayton Lambert and others at a simple presentation ceremony at the Company’s Eccles Industrial Estate location last Wednesday afternoon.

The two-part occasion was first to donate to the EBFA Academy Training Centre Under-13 Team, who would be contesting the final of the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) inaugural Inter-Association competition tomorrow against the Georgetown Football Association ATC. The nine Regional Members Associations competed in this competition with the two finalists after winning their respective groups.

DeAbreu further stated that he is pleased with the level of commitment being shown by the coaching staff of the ATC, based on a report given to him

by VP Lambert who also

informed DeAbreu that the ATC is being fully funded by the GFF, with the EBFA taking care of the administrative aspect of things whilst overlooking and supervising the technical department.

“I must say that we are moving in the right direction with the deliberate investment in our youths. I would really encourage the clubs to maintain the wonderful job that they have been doing to ensure the best players come through to the top. We here at DeSinco Ltd are well aware of the challenges presented to us all with the ongoing pandemic but we must collectively find solutions to this huge challenge.”

Lambert, on behalf of EBFA extended gratitude to Mr DeAbreu and DeSinco Ltd. for their kind gesture which he noted would go a long way in aiding the return to competitive play.

Over $200 000 worth of balls were donated and the clubs to benefit, apart from St Cuthbert’s Mission, are Swan FC, Kuru Kururu Warriors FC, Timehri Panthers FC, Friendship All Stars FC, Diamond United FC, Samatta Point/Kaneville FC, Mocha Champs FC, A g r i c o l a R e d T r i a ngle FC and Herstelling Raiders FC.

35

DeSinco Managing Director. Frank DeAbreu (3rd right), and EBFA vice-president Clayton Lambert (3rd left) are joined by other EBFA officials at the presentation

36

GUYANA CHRONICLE. Saturday, December 4, P A2021 GE

33

Roulette’s Kirsten Gomes in a foot race with Ignite’s captain Aliyah Gordon for the ball

ExxonMobil National Indoor Hockey Championships …

GBTI GCC Roulettes win ‘battle of the undefeated’

Nandu, Thorne named in U-19 squad for World Cup 34 PAGE

Left-hander Matthew

Fast bowler Isai Thorne

Sri Lanka down West Indies 2-0

PAGE

32

Kraigg Brathwaite was dismissed early by Ramesh Mendis, Sri Lanka v West Indies, 2nd Test, Galle, yesterday (Getty Images)

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2021