guyana Chronicle News 05-30-2021

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30th May, 2021

See Inside

No.106376

Liberty Ave. in NY officially co-named ‘Little Guyana’

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Positive economic growth recorded in first quarter 03 PAGE

–– rice output up by 79.9%, sugar climbs with critical investments

OPERATION ARROWHEAD 2021 A SUCCESS! The group of soldiers who were able to successfully hoist the Golden Arrowhead atop Mount Ayanganna as Guyana celebrated its 55th independence anniversary, returned from the Pakaraimas on Saturday. They are pictured here at the GDF’s Air Station London, Timehri, East Bank Demerara (Photo: Vishani Ragobeer)

First Lady hosts successful COVID-19 vaccination drive PAGE

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President Ali, PM Phillips lead major flood-relief efforts in Reg.10 08 PAGE

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Citizens Bank nets $478.4M profit in first half of 2021

THE resilience of the local banking sector continues to be evident, as Citizens Bank has become the latest financial institution to report that it has recorded an increase in profits for the

first half of the financial year.

According to the bank’s interim financial report, a profit of $478.4 million was recorded at the end of March 31, 2021; this represents an increase

SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 30, 2021

of $26.3 million or six per cent when compared to the corresponding period last year.

Citizens Bank’s announcement follows a report from Demerara Bank Limited, which shows that Citizens Bank’s headquarters at 231 -233 Camp Street and South Road it recorded a profit after-tax of $1.3 billion in the first half of 2021. It was reported too that Republic Bank Guyana Limited recorded an after-tax profit of $1.7 billion in the first half of the year.

Outside of profits, Citizens Bank reported that it recorded a net interest income of $1.4 billion after the removal of its net interest expense of $174.5 million. The company’s “other income” was $327.7 million, resulting in a surplus before non-interest expenses of $1.7 billion, the same for the corresponding period last.

The bank’s operating expenses were recorded at $818.7 million, compared to $827.2 million for the corresponding period last year, while net impairment on financial assets was $70.5 million compared to $121.1 million for the corresponding period last year.

At the end of March, 2021, the net loans and advances balance at the bank was $32.3 billion, compared to $31.3 billion at the end of March, 2020.

Net investments were $8 billion, compared to $10.3 billion during the corresponding period last year.

Further, the total deposits at the bank were $63.3 billion, compared to $48.4 billion at the end of March, 2020. Considering the bank’s performance, its Board of Directors has approved an interim dividend of $0.90 per share.

“The economic and social uncertainty due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic continues to pose many challenges for

Chairman of Citizens Bank, Clifford Reis Citizens Bank Guyana Inc., which may impact the second six months of our financial year.

“We, however, remain optimistic that our strategies will result in a consistent performance and increased shareholder value,” Chairman of the bank, Clifford Reis, said in a short statement which was included in the company’s interim report.

It was reported earlier this year that Citizens Bank recorded a profit after-tax of $982.1 million at the end of 2020, compared to $955.2 million in profit at the end of 2019.

Based on available information, Citizens Bank, with its headquarters at 231 -233 Camp Street and South Road, Georgetown, had assets worth US$241.8 million at the end of September, 2018.

The company has 151 employees and serves a customer base of more than 52,700.

They provide retail and commercial banking services through its six branches.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 30, 2021

Positive economic growth recorded in first quarter –– rice output up by 79.9%, sugar climbs with critical investments

By Navendra Seoraj THOUGH rattled by the COVID-19 pandemic and a protracted electoral process, Guyana has fared well in the first quarter of 2021, recording positive economic growth, according to the Bank of Guyana in its quarterly report which was released recently.

The exact size of growth recorded by the country is not available at this time, but according to the central bank, Guyana is one of the few Caribbean countries which recorded positive growth in the first quarter.

“Economic performance in the Caribbean was very uneven in the first quarter, with tourism-based economies performing worse than their commodity-based counterparts. Barbados recorded output contraction of 19.8 per cent, its fourth successive quarter of double-digit decline, largely due to its weakened tourism sector.

“However, Guyana recorded positive growth at the end of the first quarter, primarily on account of oil production.

The other countries in the region are estimated to have recorded declines as a result of the weaker investment climate, reduced activities in the services sectors as well as decline in trade,” the central bank reported.

The Guyanese economy, unlike others which could not withstand the effects of COVID-19 and other external shocks, continued to benefit from oil production. Crude oil production increased to 11 million barrels at the end

An overhead photo of Kitty, Georgetown (Latchman Singh/Office of the President photo) of March 2021, as daily ably despite the many to lower declarations declines were registered oil production increased challenges such as pi- by one large scale min- in the production of acetsignificantly when com- racy and the ongoing ing company and the ylene, ointments, tablets pared to one year earlier. COVID-19 pandemic. small and medium scale and detergents by 42.8 Outside of oil, mixed In the sugar industry, miners by 68.6 per cent per cent, 42.2 per cent, output performance was output increased in the and 8.1 per cent, respec- 34.6 per cent and 26.1 recorded in the major first quarter and was at- tively. per cent, respectively. sectors, as the non-oil tributed to rehabilitative Conversely, higher The construction sececonomy is still recov- works at the functioning output of 82.8 per cent tor, on the other hand, ering from the impact of estates, critical invest- and 44.8 per cent were recorded positive perforthe ongoing COVID-19 ments in machinery and recorded for crude oil mance on account of inpandemic. The agricul- high workers’ morale and diamonds, respec- creased public and private ture sector recorded in- during the first crop for tively. The manufactur- construction, while there creased production of 2021. On the other hand, ing sector, like the other was increased activities in rice, fish and shrimp, the forestry subsector sectors, also recorded the services sector, albeit sugar, eggs and poultry recorded a 12.3 per cent mixed performances not to pre-pandemic levmeat, while the forestry decline in production for with liquid pharmaceu- els, as authorities relaxed subsector contracted. the period under review. ticals, nitrogen gas, oxy- some of the COVID-19 According to a breakIn the mining and gen, paints and alcoholic measures. down of the performanc- quarrying sector, pro- beverages performing There was increased es in the agriculture sec- duction of sand, baux- favourably, while there activity in the wholetor, rice output increased ite, stone and gold were was a decline in pro- sale and retail trade and by 79.9 per cent, fish and lower while crude oil duction of acetylene, repairs; arts, entertainshrimp by 9.2 per cent, and diamond produc- ointments, tablets and ment and recreation; acsugar by 0.5 per cent, tion increased. The bank detergents. commodation and food eggs by 0.4 per cent and reported that the minSpecifically, increas- services; transport and poultry meat by 0.1 per ing and quarrying sector es were recorded in the storage, and financial cent. recorded lower output production of liquid and insurance sub-secThe central bank said of sand, crushed stone, pharmaceuticals, nitro- tors. rice production soared bauxite and gold, which gen gas, oxygen, paints Moving forward, notwithstanding the ad- contracted by 82.1 per and alcoholic beverages the local economy is verse weather conditions cent, 37.9 per cent, 33.5 by 35.8 per cent, 31.8 expected to build on experienced during the per cent and 17.9 per per cent, 23.3 per cent, its performance in the first crop. The fish and cent, respectively.

22.1 per cent and 17.5 first quarter, as it is proshrimp subsector manThe decline in the per cent, respectively. jected to record real oil aged to perform favour- gold industry was due On the other hand, Gross Domestic Product

(GDP) growth of 20.9 per cent, while the nonoil economy is estimated to grow by 6.1 per cent.

“This performance is expected to stem from expansions in all the major sectors due to the reopening of the economy as the ongoing vaccination programme continues and the COVID-19 restrictions continue to be lifted. However, the new variants of the coronavirus pose a threat to this outlook, as there is the possibility of another lockdown,” the central bank related.

Notwithstanding, the end of year inflation rate is expected to be 1.6 per cent due to increased economic activities as the economy picks up.

Despite impending challenges, Guyana, with its growing petroleum industry and other lucrative productive sectors, remains on the cusp of economic transformation, with opportunities for growth and development of all Guyanese.

President Irfaan Ali, in his message on the eve of Guyana’s 55th Independence Anniversary, said: “We fought for independence to give our people the quality of life of which they had been deprived. If independence is to have any real meaning, it is to uplift our people from the ravages of limitations of the past, and to give them a better life with better opportunities under better circumstances.”

Every person in the local society, according to the President, now has real economic opportunities to grow and develop, and to contribute to the enlargement of national wealth.

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‘You will never be invisible,’ Councilwoman Adams tells US-based Guyanese

SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 30, 2021

… as Liberty Ave. is officially co-named ‘Little Guyana’ GUYANESE living in the United States of America will always have a seat at the table, according to Councilwoman of New York City, Adrienne Adams. She gave this assurance on Saturday, as Liberty Avenue was officially co-named ‘Little Guyana.’

Over the past decades, the notable avenue has been heavily populated with Guyanese from all walks of life who have contributed to the overall development of the City’s 28th District. “…a place that I call the Great 28, and that’s because you’ve made it great,” Adams told those present at the simple unveiling ceremony.

She said that the co-naming of the avenue seeks to honour the achievements

of the Guyanese-American community, which continues to make indelible contributions to the United States (US), particularly in the Richmond Hill area.

She recognised that Guyanese immigrants have left their mark not only culturally, but economically as well.

“We have families that thrive here; that are proud,” Councilwoman Adams posited.

She also lauded the spirit of volunteerism that continue to permeate throughout the Guyanese-American community.

Further, Adams assured the Guyanese of New York that, “You will never be invisible; you will always have a seat at the table.”

The Councilwoman said that the official co-naming

Liberty Avenue has been officially co-named ‘Little Guyana’ in honour of the contributions made by Guyanese Americans

Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud, shares a light moment with Gregory Meeks, who Chairs the US Congress’ Foreign Relations Committee of Little Guyana is merely a token of America’s appreciation for everything that Guyanese immigrants have done to add to the development of the country.

Sunday May Saturday May30, 29,2021 2021––04:00hrs 04:00hrs--05:30hrs 05:30hrs

“It will be installed as a reminder of the accomplishments and long legacy of community building that our families have contributed,” Adams said.

Similar sentiments were shared by Gregory Meeks, who Chairs the US Congress’ Foreign Relations Committee. In delivering brief, but heartening remarks, Meeks said that the presence of Guyanese in Queens has made New York

City a better place.

“The United States is a better place because of you,” Meeks told the residents. He further assured that “America would not be America today” without the contributions of Guyanese immigrants who continue to be a vibrant component of the Richmond Hill area.

Also present at the unveiling of the ‘Little Guyana’ signage was Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud, who conveyed the best wishes of President Irfaan Ali. Persaud said that the installation of the ‘Little Guyana’ signage was a momentous occasion which was appropriately timed just days after Guyana celebrated its 55th Independence Anniversary.

He said that the ceremony gives important recognition to Guyana and the thousands of Guyanese who have made the United States their home.

Persaud, a former minister of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government, charged the Guyanese diaspora in the US to ensure that ‘Little Guyana’ is able to live up “to what people expect of Guyana.”

He urged that the signage be a constant reminder of their homeland and the importance of their participation in building a thriving South

American nation.

“Think about what you can do for our country,” Persaud encouraged.

He reminded that currently, Guyana is on a path to transformational modernisation and development, and that the PPP/C government is working to enable the Guyanese diaspora to take up a key role in contributing to the country’s advancement.

Persaud referenced the role of overseas-based Guyanese in ensuring that Guyana maintains its electoral integrity. “[The] diaspora was at the forefront in fighting for democracy,” the Foreign Secretary said.

He maintained that “Without democracy, we could not be talking about the plans we have and the transformation taking place.”

Persaud encouraged the Guyanese in New York to think more about Guyana and keep the Golden Arrowhead very much high. “…and be proud that the decision-makers are recognising you and our community,” he concluded.

Also present at the ceremony was Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy and Mayor of New York City, Bill De Blasio, who did the unveiling of the ‘Little Guyana’ sign.

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy with Guyanese singer, Terry Gajraj at the ceremony

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318 prizes awarded at QC's 'Speech Night 2020'

SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 30, 2021

GUYANA’S premier secondary school, Queen’s College, on Thursday, kicked off their annual Speech Night Ceremony in the school’s auditorium at 14:00 hours. Speech Night, a highly-anticipated and esteemed event, is a lengthy evening of speeches and reflections. It celebrates students’ achievements within the past year.

The 2020 Speech Night Ceremony, which was pushed back with the ever-looming presence of COVID-19, saw an impressive total of 318 awards given out to students who sat the CSEC and CAPE 2020 examinations, as well as past and present students of the top secondary school, for the period 2019 to 2020.

Conventionally, the attendance at Speech Night ranges somewhere between 600 and 1000 individuals -- students, staff and parents or guardians included. However, this year’s Speech Night saw some 300 persons in physical attendance, while the majority of students and parents tuned in to the ceremony via Zoom and Facebook Live.

Some of the attendees at the 2019-2020 Speech Night Ceremony Some students had been the difficulties encountered ascending the pedestal of asked to attend a special as- by the students who com- laudable achievements, and sembly on Monday to uplift pleted their CSEC and CAPE wished them well on their their certificates and prizes, examinations in July/August endeavours. whereupon their photos were 2020, having to brave the “Such actions befittingly taken to be displayed on COVID-19 pandemic and echo the words ‘Victory is Thursday as their names were quickly adjust to changes. always possible for the percalled.

She likened the sudden loss son who has refused to stop These special measures of normalcy to a thief in the toiling’. Today, we proudly were put in place in order to night, “stealing lives, crush- acknowledge our awardees, facilitate social distancing ing hopes, and cultivating who have proven that they and ensure compliance with copious fears and uncertain- are the ‘crème de la crème’, the COVID-19 guidelines. ties”. the best of the best. Today, In delivering her introDespite this, however, we salute your performance, duction to the Chairwoman she lauded the Queen’s Col- and honour you as you have of the ceremony, Deputy lege students for their ability honoured our college. While Principal of Queen’s Col- to rise above their challenges some dream of success, lege, Candaice Cave-Ste- and excel, refusing to let the you have worked for it, and phen, took time out to note pandemic thwart them from earned it,” she said.

Principal of Queen’s College, Jackie Ralph, described the academic year 20192020 as memorable, noting that with the sudden lockdown of schools in March, 2020, teachers were suddenly plunged into a dilemma, as it pertained to ensuring the effective delivery of education.

“With effect from March 16, 2021, members of the academic staff who operated on the Upper School level transitioned immediately to the online platform, and began engaging students virtually.”

She commended staff and students of the school, as well as members of the Queen’s College Alumni, and Parent Teacher Associations for their quick action in combatting the pandemic, highlighting mechanisms like the creation of an e-timetable, to manage and allocate time spent in virtual classrooms; Internet service which was paid for by the Alumni Association; laptops and tablets being provided to vulnerable students, and the purchase of unlimited Zoom on multiple accounts to allow teachers optimum capacity to educate students without

interruption.

While Queen’s College did record a 1.6 per cent decline in the pass rate at CSEC, and a one per cent decline at CAPE, all QC students who sat the CSEC examinations matriculated, meaning that they obtained Grades One to Three in at least five subjects, including English A and Mathematics; a standard the school continues to maintain.

Top awards received by students included the Queen’s College Medal, awarded to CAPE students who placed among the top 10 regional performers; the Dr Quacy Grant Prize, for the CSEC student with the best academic record in specified subjects of the Arts Stream; the Ministry of Public Works prize, for the best CSEC performer of the school in Industrial Technology; the Private Sector Commission Prize for the most outstanding business candidate at CSEC; and the Dr Joshua Ramsammy Memorial trophy for the best final year student in Biology, among numerous others.

Kokerite Hill, Mabaruma get electricity BRIGHTER days are ahead for residents residing in the hinterland community of Kokerite (Kokerital) Hill, Mabaruma, Region One (Barima-Waini).

On Thursday, an electrical network to service the community was completed and handed over to the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), and on Friday, Collin Croal, Minister of Housing and Water, during a visit to the area, stated that the government has been actively working to address inadequacies affecting hinterland and riverine communities and the electrical network will improve the standard of living for those residing in the area. “Our aim is to ensure that all Guyanese are equipped with basic amenities and utilities to live mean-

ingful lives. The installation of this electricity system will help residents in Kokerite Hill to have strengthened security and enhance their access to better educational opportunities, as well as improve their overall comfort,†the minister was quoted as saying in a press release from the Housing Ministry.

The installation of the system is also another promise fulfilled by the minister, who made the commitment, during his visit to Mabaruma in April. The network consists of four 25 KVA transformers with approximately 600 meters of primary network (high voltage) and 1,500 meters of secondary network (low voltage network).

According to the release,

the scheme currently falls under the purview of the ministry and the works will allow for residents within the scheme to access 110/220 voltage to their homes. Another seven households just outside of the scheme boundary are also expected to be connected to the electrical network. Before this development, only a small portion of the scheme received electricity.

Additionally, Minister Croal handed over 15 light-emitting diode (LED) street lights to the Regional Chairman, Brentnol Ashley.

He said that the street lights are aimed to complement the newly installed electrical system and to boost security for persons who traverse the areas at nights.

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal [left] hands over a street light to Regional Chairman, Brentnol Ashley, in the presence of other officials

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 30, 2021

Revolution in Higher Education

ONLINE education is not without distractions. Students without reliable Internet access and/or technology struggle to participate in digital learning; this gap is seen across countries and between income brackets within countries. For example, in the U.S., there is a significant gap between those from privileged and disadvantaged backgrounds: whilst virtually all 15-yearolds from a privileged background said they had computers to work on, nearly 25 per cent of those from disadvantaged backgrounds did not. Similarly, while some schools and governments in many countries have been providing digital equipment to students in need, many are still concerned that the pandemic will widen the digital divide.

Further, it is believed that the unplanned and rapid move to online learning, with no training, insufficient bandwidth, and little preparation, will result in a poor user experience that is unconducive to sustained growth. However, others believe that a new hybrid model of education with significant benefits will emerge, and that the integration

of information technology with education will be further accelerated and eventually, make online education an integral component of school education.

Additionally, there are some privacy issues. There are direct legal ramifications of concern to students, as a result of sharing individual grades among group members and providing public feedback in blogs. Privacy issues also occur in more nuanced ways, such as open access to each other’s work, transparent reflections, public comments, critical analyses of the assignments, and collaborative evaluations of students’ work.

The journey continues for distance into the 21st century. It has become a social, collaborative, personalised and interactive experience that generates two powerful, mutually reinforcing success accelerants: first, the long-term desire to learn, to better one’s position in the world; and, secondly, the pleasure of participating in a learning experience that is continually exciting, rewarding and creating a valuable sense of social connection.

Today’s distance learning, that is, online

education or e-learning, is no longer a oneway communication. Technological advances have allowed for teaching face-to-face at a distance. The speeding up of chips and the introduction of broadband technologies have brought about this veritable revolution.

Learners can now communicate with one another and their professors, so that they learn interactively. In essence, distance education has now become a valued component of many education systems and has progressed in areas where traditional schools, colleges, and universities have had difficulties in meeting demands.

GOAL is a bold initiative which adds to the education value chain and aims to level the education playing field and make higher education accessible to everyone everywhere in Guyana. This means that learners, other than the usual ‘cream of the crop’ students, will now have opportunities to pursue higher education. More importantly, it affords the lesser qualified and needy citizens options of vocational programmes at the tertiary level. Like students elsewhere in the world, those in Guyana would grow to appreciate

the way that online learning frees them from the constraints of time and space, and allows them to gain reflection as well as to think quickly and critically in real-time and thus gain knowledge and skills at their own pace and from the comfort of their homes in villages and remote areas of the country.

While some people may continue to ponder the change from face-to-face classroom delivery to online/distance delivery mode, others would quickly realise that the flexibility of the classes will not only help to alleviate their tight schedule, but will also help them to save money on their commuting.

In sum, online distance learning would level the higher education playing field, and in so doing, serve as a catalyst for education-training equity, fulfilling aspirations and creating opportunities for learners, even in the most remote parts of Guyana. GOAL, as a national entity, not only refreshes or brings new hope, but also undoubtedly ushers the dawn of a revolution in higher education in this evolving oil and gas economy.

The PNC and Granger must accept that electoral reform is a must Dear Editor,

DURING his tenure as substantive and caretaker President of Guyana, David Granger displayed various dispositions. These serve to evidence evolution of measures from a ‘behind-the-scene’ pretentious orchestrator, to directing consistently increasing displays of various forms of cognitive dissonance.

Amidst the increasing public calls for his replacement by elements within the PNC, one has to ponder whether the obvious darkening shades of irrationality and bordering senile degradation are the real contributors.

Published media articles report former President David Granger’s declaration of support for the actions taken by the Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield. These are no longer unbelievable nor surprising. Mr. Granger played and remains rigid in the role of the pious deflector, although the grounds for such have been publicly eroded, even within his support base.

The Stabroek News article, ‘Granger endorses Lowenfield chopping of 115,000 votes,’ dated June 30, 2020, reports that “President David Granger last evening endorsed a controversial report by Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield, which invalidated the votes of 25% of Guyanese electors.” This was done while the whole world stood up in objection to the ransom permitted election fi-

asco, during the five months following voting on March 2, 2020. In particular, these were against the Lowenfield report to GECOM on June 23rd through which he disenfranchised 115,787 voters by invalidating approximately 25 percent of the votes cast.

More recently, Mr. Granger emerged from his slumber to make shallow pronouncements regarding our necessary electoral reforms. He emphasises that the Guyana Court of Appeal should rule on electoral matters, not the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ). Could rational, thinking citizens accept such gullibility? It is not forgotten that the judiciary in Guyana came in for serious criticisms, consequent upon their unacceptable ruling that 33 is not the majority of 65 in the resultant matter related to the December 2018 no-confidence motion.

Furthermore, the Guyana Appellate Court in rulings on various (election) related matters subsequently examined by our apex court, reveals questionable shortcomings and is an insult to our commitment to the foundations of an acceptable final regional justice position.

Notably, on the issue “Votes Cast,” the matter brought by the APNU was thrown out after CCJ President Justice Adrian Saunders made his ruling. Granger’s ramblings that the Court of Appeal, in his view, is competent to rule on internal electoral matters is a manifestation of emerged senility.

The PNC and David Granger must accept

that electoral reform is a must. The Carter formula concerning the chairman and the commission is still an appropriate base position from which we will appreciate reviews towards a better formula. Lest we lose sight that the ideal of the reforms is to improve the system of producing acceptable results from transparent, free and fair elections, the unnecessary hypocritical ramblings to stymie the process by rejecting international assistance will dissipate.

It is obvious that out of justified necessity, a review of the mechanism towards the appointment of the chairperson and commissioners as well as their scope of performance and delivery must be looked at. While we are looking at these details, we must not forget that it is not the two major parties selecting the chairperson and the commissioners.

The political parties in Parliament are supposed to nominate six names and send them to the President for his consideration of the chairperson. In the current system, the government will nominate three commissioners; the opposition parties in Parliament normally nominate three commissioners. Hence, it is expected that the PNC/APNU will nominate two and the others will get an opportunity to nominate one of the commissioners.

Further, there is also a need for re-examination of the Representation of the People’s Act. (ROPA). Electoral Reforms are a must and we should not have a system whereby

commissioners are on the commission never-ending. Such corrections are necessary to counter the loss of delivery of constitutional objectivity in favour of partisan party advantages.

Editor, the recent ruling by Chief Justice Roxane George that the Statements of Poll for the March 2020 Elections be provided to the police and Director of Public Prosecutions is solid in law and must be applauded. It establishes that the judiciary has ensured the affirmation of the significant, central democratic pillar that will ensure the conduct of appropriate investigations regarding the anomalies in these elections. No longer will the shielding of these corrupt officials be tolerated.

The Chief Justice has consistently made solid and sound judicial decisions, in response to repeated attempts by the conspirators to subvert the will of the people and those who have sought to twist the laws of our country. There has been an erotic, eerie silence since she decided on the SoPs, particularly from the camp of the PNC as main stakeholders to benefit from the plot.

One would hope that the strong messages would likely deter future considerations toward the obvious mindset of the leading power-hungry cabal.

Yours sincerely, Neil Kumar

SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 30, 2021

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Internal auditing has grown into a thriving profession Dear Editor, AS is customary each year, the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) – Global has set the month of May as International Internal Audit Awareness Month. Also, this year – 2021 the IIA is observing and celebrating its 80th year in existence.

The growth, accomplishments and history provide a unique backdrop for this thriving profession which is now more requested, more valued and more recognised than ever.

This is a wonderful opportunity to now proudly look back on the evolution of The IIA and internal auditing. It is time to also remember the aspirations of those pioneering founders who so steadfastly guided this profession throughout its infancy.

It was in September 1941 when two dozens internal audit thought leaders met at the Williams Club in New York City to begin what would become The IIA. It should be mentioned that in 1941, many countries were engulfed in war in Europe and in the Asia-Pacific region. It was virtually impossible that the men who had formed The institute then could imagine their brainchild and the profession it serves, and which would change in the ensuing eight decades.

The development of this profession required permanent headquarters, and within a year – 1942-its headquarters was acquired at 120 Liberty Street, New York, and this was a major achievement then.

Internal auditing wasn’t really a profession unto itself at that time, it was in most cases an offshoot or subdivision of an organisation’s accounting department. Internal auditors spent more of their time ensuring compliance with accounting and operational procedures and verifying the accuracy of departmental calculations of transactions rather than looking at potential risk factors, as an example.

In the 1970s internal auditing was still a document-heavy endeavour. Auditors then did their work using physical paper spreadsheets. Working papers would often be at least a foot thick if the audit was big enough.

Drafts were still being written up in longhand and then forwarded to a secretary for typing.

However, the technology that powers the profession was changing in the 70s, but hadn’t yet led to paperless offices, common in internal audit departments today.

Indeed, it would be another 10 years or so before the institute would refer to ‘the era of electronic data pro-

cessing’.

Notable accomplishments in the 1970s worthy of mention for The IIA are * The headquarters had relocated from New York to Orlando, Florida, in 1972, and a new building was acquired in 2001 in Altamonte Springs, Florida. * In 1974, the first Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) Exam was held at 41 locations and taken by 654 candidates. * Also in that year, the first IIA International Conference was held outside North America – in London, United Kingdom. * In 1976 The IIA Research Foundation was established and became very vibrant and active. * In 1978, The IIA issued its First Set Of Standards For The Professional Practice of Internal Auditing. * In 1979, National Institute Status was approved for the United Kingdom, France, Israel and Italy.

Hence, these specific events and accomplishments set the tone for The IIA attaining global status.

Outside of the 1979s and worthy of mention are: * In 1944, The IIA had published its first issue of the Internal Auditor Journal. Today, this Bimonthly Journal contains high-quality articles

which are properly researched, and reference is made to best practices of internal auditing globally, as they occur. * In 1968, the Code of Ethics was approved as a standard for every member of The IIA. This Code of Ethics is to promote an ethical culture in the global profession of internal auditing. It describes the minimum requirements for conduct, and behavioural expectations rather than specific activities. * In 1999, The IIA released a New Definition of Internal Auditing which states its fundamental purpose, nature and scope of internal auditors. * In 2000, New IIA Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing were revised and approved.

They are principle-focused, and provide a framework for performing and promoting internal auditing.

A major hallmark of the accomplishment of The IIA was in year 2009 when it published its International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) This Framework contains: MANDATORY GUIDANCE * Definition of Internal Auditing * Code of Ethics * International Standards

STRONGLY RECOMMENDED GUIDANCE * Position Papers * Practice Advisories * Practice Guides The IPPF is intended to assist practitioners and stakeholders globally in being responsive to the expanding market for high-quality internal auditing. It strengthens the position of The IIA as a standard-setting body for this profession, globally.

That having been said, the major change in the internal audit profession from its inception in 1941 has been the role internal auditors are playing today in their organisations. In essence, it is now a managerial approach. It is not about just checking internal controls. There is a new mindset of what the internal auditor’s function is, and what he or she can best contribute to their organisations.

The institute must be credited with providing ethical leadership in turning internal auditing into a real profession. To the auditors, be a player and do it well. Do not just be ‘best’ or ‘excellent’, be ‘outstanding’. Be recognised by your management and peers, as leading in the development of professional internal audit services. There is that word again: ‘profes-

sional’ – a word that didn’t always apply to internal auditing.

The IIA in year 2021 after eight decades is to be seen by its members as operating as one global organisation, including not only the global IIA, but also all chapters and institutes all over the world.

One major challenge in the coming years is to make sure that internal auditing is valued globally, and is recognised as a profession worldwide. It is an organisation focused on progress, yes, but specifically on ‘Progress Through Sharing’ – sharing with others your knowledge, best practices, and passion for the internal audit profession.

In closing, after 80 years of existence, The IIA has accomplished its recognition as the global voice and advocate of this profession. As for the Guyana Chapter, it has been/is benefiting immensely from the guidance of The IIA. Let’s all be proud of the remarkable progress made over its 80 years of existence in the development and practice of this profession, and to successfully continue along this treaded path in the forthcoming years.

Yours sincerely, John Seeram

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 30, 2021

President Ali, PM Phillips lead major flood-relief efforts to Region 10 ―residents get food, water, shelter and medical aid

WITH water reaching as high as eight feet, President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Prime Minister, Brigadier, (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, on Saturday, spearheaded a major multi-stakeholder outreach to several of the flooded communities along the Upper Berbice River in Region 10.

In continuing his onthe-ground assessment of the nationwide flooding, the Head-of-State was able to get a first-hand look at challenges faced by flood victims in communities such as Lamp Island, Kwakwani, Bamboo Landing, Hururu Mission and Ladern’s Ville, which are some of the areas most affected by persistent rainfall.

During the outreach, President Ali was able to interact with the distraught residents, listening to the concerns of those whose homes and farmlands have

been inundated over the past few days.

The President assured the residents that his government, working with all stakeholders, including the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), will ensure that

ings to ensure that flood-affected residents have warm places to stay safe and secure until the floodwaters recede.

President Ali was accompanied by Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill;

Food and other essential supplies arriving in Region 10

food, water and health supplies are provided to those affected. He explained that shelters would be set up at various government build-

Minister of Public Service, Sonia Parag; Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Brigadier Godfrey Bess; CDC Head,

Two more COVID-19 deaths, 98 new cases

TWO more persons have died of COVID-19, taking Guyana’s overall death toll to 382, the Ministry of Health announced on Saturday.

The latest fatalities are a 73-year-old male from Region Four (DemeraraMahaica), and 67-year-old female from Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) who died while receiving care at a medical facility on Friday.

There are currently 1,974 active COVID-19 cases in Guyana following the addition of 98 new ones as at Saturday, May 29, 2021.

Even as new cases are being recorded, 92 persons have reportedly gotten over the virus, bringing the total number of recoveries to 14,468.

The 98 newly-confirmed cases were recorded in nine of the country’s ten administrative regions, with 55 of them being females, and the remaining 43 males.

Region Four accounted for 40 of the new cases, while Regions One (BarimaWaini) and Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) recorded three new cases each; Region Three, 16; Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) seven; Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) 20; Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) one; Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo) two; and Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice) six.

The 98 new cases were reportedly recorded from a total of 1,218 tests, and brings to 16, 822 the total number of confirmed cases in Guyana to date since the virus was first detected here back in March 2020.

There are currently 1,974 active cases, 22 of which are being kept at the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Infectious Diseases Hospital at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.

Currently, there are 109 persons in institutional iso-

lation; 1,841 in home isolation, and two in institutional quarantine. Many of the persons infected with the virus are said to be asymptomatic, meaning that they are not exhibiting symptoms.

The updated COVID–19 Emergency Measures are in force from May 1, 2021, until May 31, 2021. They may be extended or amended by notice of the Minister of Health, after an assessment of the prevailing public health conditions of the pandemic.

As per the current measures, however, all persons are required to wear face masks when leaving their homes. Physical distancing and adequate sanitization are also important. The current curfew time is 22:30h to 04:00h. Persons with symptoms of COVID-19 are asked to call the COVID-19 hotline numbers: 231-1166; 226-7480; or 180/181 for assistance.

Lieutenant Kester Craig and other officials.

Similarly, Prime Minister Phillips, accompanied

by Edghill and Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai was also in Region 10 distributing food

several other communities such as Speightland, Block 42 Lower Amelia’s Ward, and Kara Kara. Residents there also benefited from the distribution of much-needed supplies including food hampers and

Water levels have reached up to eight feet in some communities along the Upper Berbice River in Region 10

hampers. The team was also able to conduct further assessments of the flood-related damage occurring in

cleaning agents.

It was only on Friday that President Ali led a similar outreach to com-

munities in Mahaicony Creek, Region Five.

A number of communities in Guyana, especially those in low-lying and riverine areas, are currently flooded due to heavy rainfall, which is expected to continue during the next week.

P re s i d e n t A l i h a s pledged his government’s commitment to ensuring that persons affected by the floods are provided with essential supplies. The President assured that he and his team are working round-the-clock to brainstorm solutions and minimise the impact that the flooding has had on various communities across the country. The Head of State said that his government’s priority is to ensure the safety and security of all flood victims.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 30, 2021

Politics & Society Forum

Rudderless Leadership THE daily deluge of ramblings from the APNU+AFC opposition reveal tragic and farcical elements of a rudderless leadership designed to hoodwink the citizenry.

This is rather unfortunate since the citizenry is still reeling from the effects of the failed attempts by unscrupulous individuals to alter the results of the general elections to favour the now opposition.

I am referring to the opposition’s continuous claim of winning the March 2, 2020, general elections; of being pushed out of power by powerful foreign elements; of being a victim of an “atrocious decision of the High Court” on its election petitions, and of not being informed about the process of electoral reform in GECOM, among a dose of highfalutin statements.

To its credit, the oppo-

sition has the right to call out the sitting government for misdemeanours and infractions. However, this responsible position must be guided by a balanced approach rather than cherry-picking. To wit, the opposition’s position on the removal of mangrove swamps for development does not square up with the handing over of Guyana’s oil and gas resources to multinational corporations. This position has lampooned the opposition into a state of contradiction. One cannot be a destroyer and protector of the environment at the same time.

This conundrum happens to political parties when they fail to deliver to the people. The confluence of factors -- rhetoric and rigmarole -- that allowed them to survive in power will continue when out of power. A vicious rather

than a virtuous cycle of grasping for any “manufactured” image will predominate, with the hope of returning to the reins of power. This is not a product of good thinking but a false sense of expectation, lurching the opposition into a state of anomie.

The dénouement of the APNU+AFC leadership, through contrivances, has become a pappy show engendering a situation in which the mere practise of checks and balances goes practically unchecked. The APNU+AFC opposition has become, unfortunately, a loose cannon, much to the chagrin of its own rank and file, not to mention its supporters. Invocation and motivation to return to power is heading in the opposite direction for the opposition, pushed back by its own infelicities. If good governance did not happen when governing,

POLICE are investigating the murder of a man and his nephew at Three Friends Coomacka Mines, Region 10, in the wee hours of Saturday.

Dead are Leonard Reece, 58, of Three Friends, Coomacka Mines, and his nephew, Ronald Wong, 36, who, police say, is of unsound mind. The tragedy occurred sometime between 01:15 hrs and 03:00 hrs.

According to a police report, Ronald Wong,

during the month of April 2021, was released from prison after serving time for attempted murder; he moved in with his uncle, Leonard Reece, who would usually cook for him on a daily basis.

Police noted that the Chairman of Three Friends, Coomacka Mines, who lives about two houses away from Reece, reported that about 01:15h Saturday, she was awoken by sounds from Leonard’s house.

She immediately went

out on her verandah from where she saw Elvis – Leonard’s 25-year-old autistic son– jumped through the eastern window from Leonard’s house and shouted twice in a loud tone of voice saying “murder”.

The woman immediately raised an alarm and other neighbours came out and went over to Leonard’s house, where the gruesome discovery was made. Leonard’s body was seen with several chop wounds and

why should we expect any different when in the opposition? This is the exact position in which the opposition finds itself , notably, locked in a labyrinth of destructive tendencies.

Moreover, the opposition believes that the citizenry does not have a full understanding of its concealed weaknesses.

This belief explains why the opposition has been falsely enriching itself by spurting reckless statements to distract attention from its ineptitude of sound oppositional leadership. The pathway towards an effective opposition, even in elementary forms, is contingent upon being well-informed and well-prepared when meeting the press and public.

This is a troubled area for the opposition, which is most recognisable when the opposition comes out of its cobwebbed world

appearing in public, on TV, on social media, and in zoom. Some of their leaders would like us to believe that they are leading some charge, but on the contrary, they appear like mad bulls on the loose. Wild and unsubstantiated statements are common occurrences.

We witnessed some of this behaviour when the opposition was in power, but it has now become full-blown. Arguably, the opposition has woken up from a comatose state.

This is great for politics because whenever the top brass speaks, they provide us with the opportunity to analyse and compare them.

The above analyses of the opposition are just parts of a broader challenge within the PNC, since the AFC has become an appendage to the opposition. The PNC has

Professor Lomarsh Roopnarine rarely relied on democratic elements to enter the realm of leadership. The 20 years of dictatorship by Forbes Burnham denied the PNC the experience to develop according to the basic expectations of fair governance. There was never a culture cultivated to respect the will of the electorate, or inclusive governance. The polity of the PNC never felt the free will of most of the citizenry, brought about by its own defunct design.

Burnham single-handedly denied them that, although his followers, when given power, grabbed it with eyes wide open.

The tragic side of the opposition is the continuation of Burnhamism. The farce is that everything that occurs when the PNC is out of power is not good for Guyana.

These two elements have been fused to form what we know now as a permanently wounded nest, collapsing under the weight of a rudderless leadership (lomarsh. roopnarine@jsums.edu).

Relatives murdered in Coomacka Mines covered in blood; he had on a pair of black boxer pants.

The police said that Wong’s body was later

found in a paddleboat in the river with several wounds and lying face down. It is unclear how he got injured.

Persons are currently being interviewed and statements are being taken as the investigation continues.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 30, 2021

The Science of COVID-19

Regular exercise linked to lower chance of severe COVID-19 Contributed By Dr Ariane Mangar Director- Disability and Rehabilitation Services Ministry of Health ONE of the worst long-term side-effects of Covid-19 is general weakness. Although most symptoms of COVID-19 disappear after recovery, most people complain of a lingering sense of fatigue, with limited ability to exercise or even perform daily activities. Several patients also experience muscle pain long after recovery.

The University of California recently conducted a study which found that people who have been less physically active are more likely to experience severe COVID-19 outcomes if they contract the virus. The study showed that physically inactive people require intensive care as compared to those who exercised constantly. This doesn’t mean exercise can substitute in any way for immunisation but an active body with a strong immune system can certainly give a tough fight to the COVID-19 virus.

Regular exercise, whether it’s going for a swim, walk, run or bike ride, can substantially lower our chances of becoming seriously ill if we do become infected and it also releases endorphins that help relieve stress and pain from the body.

With Guyana experiencing a third wave of Covid-19, many people are apprehensive about going to the gym and exercising outdoors. Also, many of us are staying at home more in self-imposed quarantine and social distancing. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), staying at home for prolonged periods can lead to sedentary behaviour that can have negative effects on one’s health, well-being and quality of life.

Moreover, self-quarantine can cause additional stress to one’s mental health. During such times, any kind of physical activity can work as a valuable tool to protect you

and encourage relaxation. Physical activity increases the exchange of vital white blood cells between peripheral tissues and the bloodstream, which aids the body’s immune response (blood and lymph vessels).

This increases the activity of immune cells in the bloodstream. A boost to the immune system helps in fighting infections, prevents bacteria from growing and reduces stress and inflammation.

Benefits of staying physically active in the time of COVID-19 - Strengthens the immune function - Decreases inflammation - Reduces the risk of heart disease and diabetes - Aids in stress management by reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression - Helps in weight management - Improves bone and muscle strength, balance and flexibility How to stay safe while exercising during the pandemic - Do not exercise if you have a fever, cough or difficulty breathing - Practice social distancing when exercising outdoors - Practice good hand hygiene before and after your workout - If you’re new to physical activity, begin with low-intensity activities like walking or low-impact workouts for shorter periods of time and progressively build up over time - To minimise the risk of injury, choose the right activity; the strength of the exercise should be appropriate for your fitness level and health status.

Anyone who had severe illness or was hospitalised with COVID-19 needs to consult a doctor about whether it’s safe to exercise.

But even people who experienced mild illness or no symptoms need to take precautions before exercising again.

Recommendations 1. Don’t exercise if you’re still sick. Do not exercise if you have active symptoms, including a fever, cough, chest pain, shortness of breath at rest, or palpitations.

2. For sports persons returning to exercise: * After recovery from mild illness: one week of low level stretching and strengthening before targetted cardiovascular sessions. * Very mild symptoms: limit activity to slow walking or equivalent, increase rest periods if symptoms worsen, avoid high-intensity training. * Persistent symptoms (such as fatigue, cough, breathlessness or fever): limit activity to 60 percent maximum heart rate until twothree weeks after symptoms resolve. * Patients who had lymphopenia or required oxygen: need respiratory assessment before resuming exercise. * Patients who had cardiac involvement: need cardiac assessment before resuming.

Even if you’ve never been diagnosed with COVID-19, be mindful of how you are feeling. Many people with COVID-19 don’t know they have it, or have general symptoms like gastrointestinal upset, fatigue or muscle aches. So if you’ve been feeling “not your usual self” during exercise, listen to your body, ease up and check with your doctor.

COVID-19 is an aggressive virus that spreads easily and carries significant morbidity and mortality. Cardiac risk in particular is greater with COVID-19 than with other viral diseases, so it makes sense to return to activity with caution.

Exercise routines that you can follow after you would have recovered from COVID-19 and if you wish to regain your physical strength Soon after recovery, it is important for you to understand that you must not rush with your fitness session since COVID-19 makes your body weak. Do not exert yourself. Go

Dr Ariane Mangar

for a slow and steady exercise schedule which will not exhaust your oxygen reserve in the lungs.

You may resume your routine work at home but do not stress yourself. You may also do brisk walking for 15-30 minutes on every alternate day at home itself.

Walk or brisk walk: Even in small spaces, walking around or walking on the spot, can help you remain active. Ideally, aim to interrupt sitting and reclining time every 30 minutes. If you have a call, stand or walk around your home while you speak, instead of sitting down. Brisk walking can be done in a corridor, balcony, or reachable areas.

Around 20-25 mins of brisk walking can improve the metabolism of the body and energize you.

If you enjoy doing intense workouts, hold on for a month. Around 30 days after recovering from COVID-19, you can do push-ups and muscle-building exercises.

FOR ASYMPTOMATIC PATIENTS To begin with, it is crucial to assess the impact of the virus on the individual and the body.

“If the patient has been asymptomatic, then start off with brisk walking for 15-20 minutes as this can get your muscles moving.

This is also a good form of exercise since the intensity can be regulated by the individual.

HYDRATE YOURSELF Don’t forget to drink 8-10 glasses of water every day. The most important thing is to keep you hydrated (200 ml water every half an hour). Also, exercise according to your own limitations and don’t overdo.

There are Physiotherapists working in rehabilitation departments in every region in Guyana and, for more information, please call the Georgetown Public Hospital Rehabilitation Department, 225-3294.

Chief of Staff encourages soldiers to get vaccinated against COVID-19 CHIEF-OF-STAFF (ag), Brigadier Godfrey Bess and a team conducted a routine visit to ranks serving at Location New Amsterdam and Benab at No. 63, Corentyne Berbice on Thursday last.

While there, Brigadier Bess inspected the living conditions of the barracks and held discussions with the ranks about issues affecting them, during their stint thus far.

Brigadier Bess also advised the soldiers who are vaccinated against the deadly COVID-19,

to encourage their peers to do the same. He also stressed the importance of wearing masks, sanitising, and strictly adhering to the COVID-19 guidelines.

The visiting teamed included: Commanding Officer, 1 Infantry Battalion, Colonel Sherwin Anderson; Lieutenant Colonel Kennard Liverpool; Majors Cleon Coppin and Denolle Sankar; Captains Ron Williams and Marvin Dey, and the Force Sergeant Major, along with Warrant Officer Class One, Raul Rodney.

Chief-of-Staff (ag), Brigadier Godfrey Bess (extreme) left engages soldiers during his routine Berbice visit (GDF photo)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 30, 2021

Understanding Energy

Guyana must find balance in its Local Content Policy AT a recent press conference, Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo spoke about ongoing revisions to Guyana’s local content policy to ensure that locally owned businesses are able to compete.

He expressed concerns that foreign companies are “taking over almost every sector” and announced broad plans to protect some industries so that Guyanese companies do not have to compete with internationals.

Jagdeo named specific sectors, including “landscaping, logistics, transportation, food supply, a whole range of cleaning services… rentals… and so on,” which could be closed to foreign companies so that there would be no external competition for local businesses in the oil and gas sector. He went on to say that these sectors will make “tens of billions of dollars” for Guyanese without outside competition.

Local content development is a positive and widely supported process that works to ensure that local companies can par-

ticipate in growing sectors like the oil and gas industry.

But, as with any long-term government intervention into the evolution of the economy, policies must be carefully designed and based on sound principles.

According to Dr. Valerie Marcel, an expert in resource governance at the think tank, Chatham House, it is important for Guyana to focus on areas that will benefit its people for years to come and offer “spillover” benefits by building skills and capabilities that can be applied to other industries after oil is depleted.

While it is good that the government is taking the time to discuss, review, and write its local content policy, eliminating international competition in select sectors could make them more fragile if critical needs can’t be met locally.

In many cases, local firms may be able to meet industry needs for specific goods or services but could struggle with the large volumes typically required on tight deadlines. Labour shortages could arise as well as Guyana experiences

growth across many sectors simultaneously. These risks could lead to significant roadblocks to development if they aren’t carefully weighed.

There is no doubt that developing local content is a worthy goal that will help drive Guyana’s economic transformation. Fortunately, the new administration seems to be aware of the risks and is adjusting its policies for different sectors, depending on the current and short-term ability to fulfil key oil and gas sector needs. The goal of government actions is to pave the way for growing industrial development opportunities in the country over the medium and long term. Partnerships between local and international companies will likely be important to encourage major investments and facilitate knowledge transfers.

Cost is another concern that the government must balance, in addition to capacity development.

Oil development costs are recouped from production through cost recovery.

That means that approx-

imately half of each dollar spent on contractors, goods and services will come out of Guyana’s future government revenues.

Many Guyanese would no doubt be happy to pay a small premium to buy local. But if high demand and low supply make local goods and services much more expensive, it could eat into Guyana’s revenues. Average people and other sectors will also face increased costs if they have overlapping needs for goods and services where foreign investment is restricted. This could affect their operating costs and overall competitiveness.

In a very small market, like Guyana, where there are limited numbers

of companies in each sector, monopolies can also entrench high prices for the long term. If one or two companies come to dominate a sector and local content laws protect them from competition, higher prices could become a major issue and most of the benefits of local content would go to a small number of people at the cost of lower revenues for all.

Guyana remains ahead of the curve on developing a local content policy, despite the risks outlined above. Not all oil and gas producing countries have policies, and it took decades for others to install well-balanced plans. It took Trinidad and Tobago over 100 years to create a com-

prehensive plan. Suriname is only now progressing policy based on years of development in the oil and gas sector. In contrast, Guyana is expected to release its updated policy and hold additional stakeholder consultations within a matter of weeks, and the local business sector has already made tremendous gains in recent years.

While Guyana should applaud itself for moving quickly on a key issue, it will be crucial to assess and balance competing priorities in the new local content policy, so that efforts to foster key local industries are consistent with efforts to grow revenues, avoid inflation and diversify the economy.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 30, 2021

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 30, 2021

Reg. 3 Station Sergeants, CPG members trained in crime-prevention tactics REGION Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) law enforcement benefitted from a training programme on crime prevention tactics that was recently held at the Leonora Secondary School auditorium.

In attendance were Station Sergeants from within the division, along with executive members of the region’s Community Policing Groups (CPG).

The session was organised by Regional Vice-Chairman, Omesh Satyanand, in collaboration with Divisional Commander, Senior Superintendent Errol Watts.

About 60 persons were in attendance and the opening remarks were made by Satyanand, who is also the Chairman of the Region Three Crime Prevention Committee. He emphasised the importance of police and public partnerships in the fight against crime and drug abuse.

Presentations were done

by Assistant Superintendent (ASP), Troy Whittaker, on the art of building community relations, and Deputy Commander, Superintendent Boodnarine Persaud, on the topic of roles and responsibilities of the police and CPG members in making community-oriented policing a success in crime-fighting.

while he commended the executives and groups for their outstanding contributions toward the reduction of crime in the region.

At the conclusion of the event, handouts on crime prevention tips were distributed to all the attendees.

Divisional Commander, Senior Superintendent Errol Watts Several issues and concerns were raised by the CPG members, all of which were addressed by the divisional commander. Amongst some of the issues raised were members operating without precepts, Rural Constable applications being processed slowly, shortage of CPG vehicles in the division, request for fuel for CPG vehicles, and police ranks not cooperating with CPG members.

It was noted that Region Three has 51 active CPG groups.

In closing remarks, the divisional commander Watts outlined the administration’s expectations regarding CPG

Some of the attendees at the Leonora Secondary School auditorium

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 30, 2021

First Lady hosts successful COVID-19 vaccination drive

THE inclement weather on Saturday did not prevent hundreds of persons from turning up at the First Lady’s COVID-19 vaccination drive on Main Street, in down-town Georgetown.

The First Lady, Mrs. Arya Ali, was also pres-

ent at the event, where she received her second dose of the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. Speaking to reporters after she was administered her shot, Mrs. Ali hailed the turnout as “tremendous”, noting that many had battled the weather to get

inoculated.

Scores of persons over the age of 18 turned up at the vaccination drive, which commenced at 09:00hrs and concluded at 15:00hrs, to receive either their first or second dose of the Sputnik V, Oxford-AstraZeneca or

First Lady, Mrs Arya Ali receiving her second dose of the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine on Saturday at her vaccination drive Sinopharm vaccine.

Mrs. Ali explained that she took steps to partner with the Ministry of Health to conduct the vaccination drive subsequent to the President, Dr. Irfaan Ali announcing that there is a 21 per cent vaccination rate among the youth population in Guyana.

“I only see it fitting that, as a youth myself, I should encourage other youths to come out to get vaccinated, so that they could protect themselves and their loved ones,” Mrs. Ali said.

She expressed that it made her “extremely happy” to bear witness to the number of persons who See page 15

Alesha Rahim displaying her vaccination booklet, after being given her COVID-19 ‘jab’

Persons assembled in the avenue on downtown Main Street, Georgetown, to participate in the First Lady’s vaccination drive

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 30, 2021

Pauline Chase elected First Lady hosts President of Bar Association successful COVID-19 ...

From page 14

took the time and made the effort to get vaccinated, noting it was a “sign of relief”, as it is a representation that herd immunity may be achieved soon, through more people being vaccinated.

“I think the turnout was tremendous, and I am extremely happy that everyone saw it fitting to come out and support the vaccination drive. And it is some sign of relief; some sign that normalcy is going to happen soon…

I am glad that people are coming out and supporting it and are being vaccinated,” the First Lady said.

She took the opportunity to encourage others to make contact with their nearest vaccination site to be administered their COVID-19 vaccine, explaining that vaccination is “safe” and is “the closest thing” which will help to achieve a COVID-19-free environment.

Mrs. Ali said it is her intention to host more vaccination drives in the future, once the relevant permission is granted by the Ministry of Health.

Alesha Rahim, who travelled all the way from the East Coast Demerara to be administered her first dose of the vaccine on Saturday, told the Sunday Chronicle that the process was “pretty efficient”, with “persons there to guide”

Devi Ramnarine from Lusignan, East Coast Demerara, after taking her first shot of the vaccine (Delano Williams photos) it along. By way of encouraging others to take the vaccine, Alesha said: “It’s nothing to be afraid of; you’re making a difference.”

As she recalled, “There was a situation where a friend got infected with the virus, and her mom was in the house, but her mom got the vaccine and she was fine. I know the vaccine can’t prevent COVID-19, but it really helps to make a difference.”

Devi Ramnarine, 21, told the Sunday Chronicle that she battled her trypanophobia (fear of needles) to be administered her first dose of the

vaccine. She noted that she took the vaccine to protect her family.

“I am still scared of needles, but this one, it didn’t hurt; I didn’t even know it went in,” she said.

Roshanie Tularam, of Alexander Village, Georgetown, took her second dose of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine on Saturday. She said she did not experience any side effects from her first dose; “not even a fever”, she said, and encouraged others to take the vaccine to “curb the pandemic and reach herd immunity and protect your loved ones”.

Two youth pose with a ‘selfie frame’ after taking their vaccine

Pauline Chase

Teni Housty

Jamela A. Ali, SC

ATTORNEY-AT-LAW Pauline Chase, was, on Friday, elected unopposed as the President of the Bar Association of Guyana for the fiscal year 2021-2022, during its Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Chase is the fourth woman to serve as President of the association in its 41-year history, a release from the association noted.

“Her father Ashton Chase, OE, SC served as a distinguished past President.

This accomplishment of Ms. Chase makes her the first progeny to serve as President of the association.

“Ms. Chase has been in

practice for over twenty years at the Chambers of Ashton Chase Associates,” the release stated.

According to the Bar Association, “her election as President is a testimony to her dedicated and illustrious service as Secretary of the association for the past four consecutive terms, commencing in 2017.”

Outgoing President, Teni Housty, having served two immediate past consecutive one-year-terms was ineligible under the Rules of the Association for re-election.

He was unanimously elected as a Vice-President together with Ms. Jamela A. Ali, SC.

Keoma D. Griffith, the outgoing Assistant Secretary, was elected as Secretary of the association. Ashely King is the new Assistant Secretary and Naresh Poonai was returned as Treasurer for the second consecutive term.

The Returning Officer, Mr. Joshua Abdool, also declared the following persons duly elected as Council Members, filling the remaining six offices on the Bar Council, the executive body of the association: Robin Stoby, SC; K.A. Juman Yassin, SC; Kamal Ramkarran; Onassis Granville; Horatio Edmonson and Donavon Rangiah.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 30, 2021

GWI’s 20,000 'smart' meters to arrive by Friday

AS part of efforts to improve it services, reduce the wastage of water and increase its pressure for domestic use, the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) has purchased 20,000 new smart meters, which are expected to arrive in Guyana during the first week of June 2021.

This is according to the Chief Executive Officer, Shaik Baksh, who told a press conference, on Thursday last, that the

utility company intends to have meters installed all across the country in keeping with its road to recovery.

Baksh alluded to the $1.1 billion in losses that GWI suffered as at September 2020.

“This is an integral part of our strategic plan to have 85-90per cent metering over five years. We are now at 51per cent, so we have pushed that programme and we will see an im-

provement in the level of service…; you will see an improvement in the level of service; you will see losses going down, people tend to conserve more water and so on and we will see our non-revenue water losses, commercial and physical losses coming down,” he stated.

The GWI is currently recording 70 per cent non-revenue and commercial losses, which

it intends to reduce to just about 55 per cent in 2021.

REVENUE RECOVERY In addition to the installation of the new meters, the GWI has also extended its Customer Assistance Programme (CAP), which offers customers the opportunity to pay just 50 per cent of their backed-up bills, as well as just 50 per cent of their reconnection fees, to June 30, 2021.

“One of the main challenges is the collection of our revenues, and because of COVID and other conditions, many of our customers have been falling back in their payments to GWI and this has been having an impact on us, but we have persuasive strategies-- writing letters, appealing to the customers through the telephone and other media to pay up the bills-- because we have a large utility to operate and we need monies for all kinds of things,” Baksh told the news conference.

He noted that prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, several hundreds of cus-

tomers defaulted on their obligations to GWI, but from the beginning of the pandemic, that number saw a steady surge.

The CEO noted that this type of reduced revenue had caused the GWI, in September 2020, to owe over $800 million to suppliers.

However, Baksh stated that several customers have restarted payments to the utility company, with some already taking advantage of the CAP. “In 2020 September, GWI was on the verge of a financial collapse, with $1.1 billion in losses, it had to report to a bank overdraft to pay staff salaries. This is no longer the case; we are in a surplus right now in terms of our cash and all staff have been paid on a monthly basis on time.

“In 2020, over $800M was due; we have reduced that to $245 million in May 2021; so we have retained the confidence and support of our suppliers out there and they are now willing to give us materials and supplies and credit, so there has been a change

in that regard,” Baksh expressed.

INNOVATION The company’s CEO noted that several systems have been employed to increase the productivity of the GWI in an effort to provide its customers with faster, more reliable service.

He noted that within a few months, the GWI was able to provide over 4,500 service connections that had been backed up for some time. He noted that no Guyanese should be denied access to water, adding that the GWI intends to cater to an additional 500 applicants within the next few months, which would clear its backlog.

“We are working to move the utility to stronger viability and sustainability over the next couple of months, and a year or two as we go along.

The waiting lists now, we have reduced that to 500, so persons have to wait a smaller time of duration to obtain a new service connection and, hopefully, within another month or two, we will be very current.”

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Flood relief package for Reg. 2 residents the coastland to assess the situation.

Ramdatt noted that the regional administration, the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) and the Sea Defence committee, will be working collaboratively to fix most of the infrastructure.

Ramdatt said that sluic-

Regional authorities meet with this flood-affected resident REGIONAL Executive Officer (REO) of Region Two, (Pomeroon-Supenaam), Devanand Ramdatt, has said that flood relief packages will be given to those persons who were severely affected by flooding in the region.

During an interview with members of the press on Saturday, Ramdatt said that the regional administration held discussions with the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development and the Community Development Council (CDC) where it was decided that hampers will be sent to the region.

He said that already two trucks were packed with flood-relief items in Georgetown destined for Region Two. Meanwhile, the REO said that teams, comprising regional engineers, were dispatched to various areas in the Pomeroon and on

A flooded cassava farm in the Pomeroon River

es and pumps are operable, except a pump at Charity, but efforts are being made to rectify this.

Most areas in the region remain flooded as a result of the continuous heavy rainfall coupled with severe high tides. As such, he noted that the authorities will remain

vigilant and will continue to monitor all the D&I structures in the region.

“The flooding situation in the region requires a collaborative effort, the team is dedicated... to monitoring all sluices and pumps and provide a responsive approach,” Ramdatt said.

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Anna Regina to get $1.9M Independence Park

THE Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) Regional Democratic Council (RDC), on Wednesday last, signed a contract for the landscaping of an Independence Park in the Town of Anna Regina.

The contract was awarded, on Independence Day, to Imam Bacchus and Sons Limited at a cost of $1.9 million; the park will be located east of the Anna Regina High Bridge, just next to State House. The contractors have three months to complete the

project.

Regional Executive Officer, Devanand Ramdatt, said the region has embarked on several activities to enhance the Town of Anna Regina, and the park is just an example. He noted that the Bush Lot settlement was recently recommissioned and that solar lights will be installed around the monument soon by businessman, Daleep Singh.

“We are doing this because, you as a citizen, must know how public funds are

spent, the bills of quantity will be circulated and will be given to the Anna Regina Town Council… We also want other stakeholders to be a part of this.

“While Agriculture is the main economic activity in this region, we cannot settle for this traditional sector alone. We need to focus on tourism which has tremendous potential,” Ramdatt said.

Ramdatt said plans are in place for seating, as well as installation of solar panels

The land where Independence Park will be constructed. and fencing, after the park is fully established.

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer of Imam Bacchus and Sons Limited,

Aadil Baksh, said that he is anxious to commence the project, noting that residents will now have more recreational parks to relax.

The region’s Superintendent of Works, Deoshankar Mohan, said the works entail the raising of the concrete walkway around the plot of land by eight inches, the in-

stallation of concrete blocks, as well as sand filling and casting. He said that landfilling will be done inside the park to alleviate flooding.

Mayor of the Town of Anna Regina, Rajendra Prabhulall, commended the initiative and noted that town council will be monitoring the works keenly.

$800M for 22 hinterland water wells IN keeping with the government’s target of 100% access to water across the country, the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) will be constructing 22 new water wells to the tune of $800 million this year in the hinterland areas of Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine.

The GWI indicated that access to water has been extended to about 96 per cent of the country’s geography, leaving just the hinterland communities to complete that 100% access.

At a press conference, on Thursday last, GWI’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Shaik Baksh, explained that the plan over the next five years is to make access to water easier for citizens across Guyana, including those in the hinterland areas and those communities without access to running water.

“Our hinterland water strategy, we hope within five years to get 100 per cent water access across the county, but that is a challenge because it is the deep riverine areas, deep mountainous areas for Region Eight, but we have been moving; we’re drilling 22 wells this year in the hinterland. We are planning and brainstorming ways to ensure that we could carry out this strategy,” Baksh explained.

Since the Hinterland Water Supply programme commenced in 2021, six wells have already been completed while an additional seven wells have been contracted to private contractors. He further stated that the remaining nine wells will be constructed during the second half of the year and are expected to be completed by the end of December 2021.

“And a lot of those wells in the hinterland are being built in-house by GWI and saving us a lot of money. Not all the wells, but many wells are being drilled by GWI, so we are on stream to achieve our hinterland targets, but more is to be done; so each year we will try to get to those hard areas to access and to provide the water service to those communities,” stated Baksh.

He indicated that the well-drilling process does not end with just the construction of a well but also includes the setting up of distribution networks, storage and outtake systems.

Baksh noted that in addition to the wells in the hinterland areas, GWI also intends to target several squatting areas that are now being regularised to provide them with access to running water.

“You do have other areas coming up where you have squatting and we are regularising those squatter areas; those will be new.

Across the country you have a regularization of small numbers about forty or fifty and we have to provide water for them,” Baksh expressed.

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Leadership and putting Guyana first

IN February this year, President Dr Irfaan Ali said ‘there was no greater moment for us to stand as one,’ as he lobbied for national unity and political cohesion, as a dawn of a new era was scheduled to be ushered in, which would undoubtedly see the nation’s growth and development and transformation of the lives of Guyanese.

Dr Ali wanted to see “maturity” in politics and a sense of nationalistic pride in being Guyanese at the end of the day. He is quoted as saying that “there has never been a greater moment when we, as Guyanese, need to stand as one to secure the benefits of our natural resources and to protect our sovereignty – the right to make decisions in our national interest – and our territorial integrity…

Stop being defined by race.

Stop being defined by politics. Start being defined by our one nationality and by our common love for our one country. Let us lift it up together and, by doing so, let us lift up each other and ourselves as ‘One People, One Nation, One Destiny.”

President Ali reasoned at the time that “We are at a decisive moment in our history, with a greater opportunity than previous Parliaments to make our country a better place than it has ever been. This is the honour and the challenge that time and events have laid at our door. We must – each of us – live up to it. The people of Guyana expect us to not spend our time squabbling and bickering. They want us to find common ground on which we can build a nation in which they are safe and their children’s future is secure.”

He then mentioned the ‘One Guyana Commission’ policy and the renewed work that would be done on the Ethnic Relations Commission to make it more independent and sound, following the tensions which flared and conspiracies which surrounded the racial fibre of this country in the lead-up to, during, and after the 2020 elections.

The President’s charge is still very relevant, timely and appropriate today.

As we celebrate Guyana’s 55th Independence Anniversary, there is an urgent need for the country to take ‘stock’ of its national growth and developmental agenda if it is to truly move forward as a nation under the theme, “One people, one

nation, and one destiny.”

Guyana, at this important hallmark, can ill-afford not to take advantage of the ripe, boundless and promising benefits that are waiting to be harnessed in the fields of newer and cleaner energy.

That aside, the traditional economy mixed with the now emerging oil and gas sector, offers Guyana a way to truly modernise its development in a sustainable and responsible manner at a rapid pace. Taking “stock” too, means that years after Guyana attained independence in 1966 and gained the status of a republic in 1970, we must be in a position to assess the socio-economic needs of our people and the challenges faced in responding to the deadly COVID-19 pandemic which is a crisis, in and of itself, that is engulfing the world.

This requires the need for strong, sober-minded and non-partisan political leadership that truly encapsulates the ‘Guyana first’ policy. President Irfaan Ali seems determined to offer Guyanese this type of leadership and statesmanship that we so badly need.

The truth is, the opposition is still, even now, covertly practising its policies of obstruction, incitement, divide and conquer, and sabotage. When it is caught telling barefaced lies about certain things and projects, it buckles under the pressure and starts a new storm in the tea cup to persuade us to focus our attention on them and what they are saying.

Each time, we as Guyanese do, we lose focus of developmental projects and good that the government has done for us in nine months.

The cash grant initiative, the recent inoculation/vaccine drive and the GOAL project are examples of the opposition politicians not putting Guyanese first.

They should be part and parcel of the initiative by sending and encouraging their constituencies to take part in them, while holding the government accountable where and when needs be.

This constant bad-mouthing of the projects at home and abroad will not help the Guyanese at home to deal with the COVID-19 crisis that is engaging them at the moment, or to get equitable access to affordable post-secondary education freely in a COVID world.

Similarly, not supporting or participating in the dialogue on constitutional or electoral reform will

not make Guyana a better place in terms of good governance, transparency and accountability. We must accept the help that is being offered if it is in line with our goals and aspirations as a country. We must participate through consultation in whatever form it may take. We must never close

the door or use childish and puerile politics that can hold up development or progress because it is not a political grouping that we like and they would get the credit for rolling out the reforms.

Politicians in general must learn the art of agreement and compromise.

Their arguments should be

about change – how could this be done differently and we work towards our goals. We must strive for non-violent resolutions and non-confrontational outcomes that will respect law and order, as opposed to sensationalising and politicising simple issues.

Finally, the President’s

message as we turn 55 is a reminder of the dark times that Guyana traversed with bickering and political conspiracies replacing truth, facts and the actual situations on the ground.

Guyana needs leadership like President Ali’s style to make it well into the development age.

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Chelsea win second Champions League title in club history MANAGER Thomas Tuchel promised a more open and positive Chelsea effort heading into Saturday’s Champions League final.

The Blues held true to his word. They’re heading back to London with the trophy because of it.

Kai Havertz’s goal shortly before halftime was the difference as Chelsea beat Manchester City 1-0 in Porto and won the Champions League for the second time in club history.

Chelsea’s Christian Pulisic made history himself by becoming the first American male to play in a UEFA Champions League final when he replaced Timo Werner in the 66th minute. Zack Steffen, City’s backup goalkeeper and the United States national team’s No. 1, did not make it off the bench.

Havertz sunk favoured Manchester City, which was -250 to win per BetMGM, in the 42nd minute off a splendid ball forward from Mason Mount, dinking around City keeper Ederson and slotting into the back of the net: Chelsea’s Ben Chilwell kickstarted the play with an impressive touch toward Mount, and that provided a neat summation of the match’s most crucial tactical chess play.

Chilwell and Reece James, nominal fullbacks who also caromed into the attack, helped suffocate the wide areas this City team has exploited much of the season, while N’Golo Kanté was his typically disruptive self in the middle. The Blues could function with three defenders while going forward, and then double that when City retook possession as Chilwell and James dropped back.

In fact, manager Pep Guardiola, whose brilliance helped

City win the Premier League rather comfortably, ended up making a mistake by overreacting to the appearance of five defenders in Chelsea’s lineup. By opting to play the attack-minded İlkay Gündoğan in the central midfield and leaving his defensive midfielders like Rodri and Fernandinho on the bench, Guardiola inadvertently played into Chelsea’s hands.

City never really sorted itself out, and Chelsea’s first half expected goals and six more touches in the opposing penalty area reflected how well the wrinkle worked.

Guardiola brought on strikers Sergio Agüero and Gabriel Jesus in the second half to chase an equalizer, which isn’t ideal, since striker-less formations propelled much of City’s success this season. The club also lost star Kevin de Bruyne after a blindside clash with Antonio Rüdiger.

The tying goal never came, and Chelsea won the Champions League for the first time since their miracle victory against Bayern Munich in 2012.

Guardiola drops to 14-2 in cup finals, and still hasn’t won the Champions League since leaving Barcelona in 2012, despite commanding Bayern Munich and now City, two of Europe’s most talented sides. The narrative that Guardiola overthinks things in knockout competitions isn’t going away, not after Saturday’s capitulation conspired to deny City its first European title ever.

That’s one way to look at it, at least. The other is to credit Chelsea and Tuchel, who got things absolutely right.

(Yahoo Sports)

GOA invests US$12,000 in Chelsea Edghill’s Olympic preparation FOLLOWING closely on the heels of the Guyana Lottery Company, which on Friday “served” up a one-year sponsorship for national table tennis player Chelsea Edghill, the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) is investing US12,000 (approximately G$2.4M) to ensure she gets the best possible preparation ahead of her maiden Olympic Games, scheduled for Tokyo, Japan in July-August.

This announcement was made yesterday by

the GOA at its Liliendaal headquarters.

According to GOA, the investment covers the cost of Edghill’s preparation and it is in the context of what programmes can be sustained from the Olympic Solidarity Fund.

Edghill was granted a spot at the Games through the tripartite system, which only has two spots worldwide for table tennis, one male and female.

For the next two months, Edghill will be at the High-Performance Training Centre of Table Tennis (CAR) and Sport Clube de Mirandela, in Portugal, undergoing intense sessions in the build-up to the global showpiece.

GOA vice-president and Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) president, Godfrey Munroe, revealed that the GOA will be funding Edghill’s training at the two centres, physiotherapy and recovery sessions, physical training, supplements, airfare from Guyana to Portugal then to Tokyo and back to Guyana or Portugal, apartment rentals, food, PCR tests and personal protective equipment.

Munroe pointed out that he hopes Edghill can leave Guyana by June 6 to commence training. The aforementioned plan of action was done in consultation with her

coaches - one of whom is Idi Lewis - Edghill’s parents, and the athlete herself.

Lewis indicated they have worked extremely hard to get to this point, noting that Edghill is a “testament of talent, a lot of hard work and a lot of sacrifices”.

For the remainder of her time in Guyana, Lewis said they will be simulating the training that will be done in Portugal. That training regime will see her train six to seven hours during the day on multiball work, tactics and game simulations, while in the evenings she will work on strength and conditioning.

Just a few weeks ago, the 23-year-old detailed how she navigated representing Guyana mainly on the financial support of her parents, and it is a fulfilling achievement to get this level of support when there were thoughts of “giving up” in the past.

“At times when I felt it is the end or I want to give up and it is not worth it, my support is tremendous and they always encourage me to keep going, and every time they support, I achieve greater things,” Edghill explained.

Edghill, who plays professionally for Lusitania de Lourosa in Portugal, will be going up against the top 82 players in the world at the upcoming Games. She,

however, wants to leave her mark at the Olympics and this preparation programme will enhance her chances of achieving that goal.

“It is going to give me a good chance to show what I am made of and all the things that I have been working on for so long.”

“The players at the Olympics are the best in the world and for me to be given a chance to compete against them is a great feeling, but also to compete at such a high level and put Guyana on the map and let people know there is table tennis in Guyana, because we are underestimated when we go places,” the 2018 Caribbean Under-21 gold medallist related.

GOA president K.A. Juman-Yassin stated that Edghill has moved to a new “threshold” and reminded the player that after the Olympics, there will be the Commonwealth Games, Pan American Games and the Central American and Caribbean Games, which provide further opportunities to succeed.

Further, it was announced that Chelsea’s mother, Deidre BaynesEdghill, will be the chef de mission for Guyana at the Junior Pan American Games, which will be held in Cali, Colombia, between November 25 and December 5.

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2021 IPL tournament to resume in UAE in September THE remainder of the 2021 IPL season will be held September-October in the UAE. The decision was taken by the BCCI at a special general body meeting held virtually yesterday.

The BCCI also decided to “seek an extension” from the ICC “to take an appropriate call” on hosting the men’s T20 World Cup, originally scheduled in India between mid-October and November 14.

ESPNcricinfo has learned that BCCI has earmarked the start date of the IPL tentatively for September 20, after they had narrowed down on a window between September 18 and October 12 in internal meetings recently.

In a media release issued yesterday, the BCCI said the decision to shift the IPL, which was suspended early May at the halfway stage, to the UAE was owing to the “monsoon season in India” which usually stretches between June and early October.

“The BCCI yesterday announced to complete the remaining matches of VIVO IPL 2021 season in the U.A.E considering

the monsoon season in India in the months of September-October this year,” the BCCI said.

There are several hurdles the BCCI faces in the limited

by Pakistan for white-ball series that are expected to go on till mid-October.

More than a dozen of England’s top white-ball players

The Indian Premier League was postponed 29 matches into the 60-game tournament

window for the remainder of the IPL. Firstly, India’s fivematch Test series in England is scheduled to end on September 14 in Manchester. Within a week after that, England are scheduled to travel to Bangladesh followed

feature in the IPL which will leave many franchises anxious about their unavailability.

The other key challenge is the CPL, which reiterated on Friday while announcing the players’ draft that the 2021 edi-

NBA roundup:

Jayson Tatum nets 50 in Celtics’ victory (REUTERS) - Jayson Tatum scored a playoff career-high 50 points to lead Boston Celtics to a 125-119 victory over the visiting Brooklyn Nets in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference first-round series on Friday night.

Nets lead the series 2-1 and Game 4 is tonight, when a full-capacity crowd will be allowed in Boston.

Tatum produced Boston’s sixth 50-point postseason game and first since Isaiah Thomas totaled 53 in Game 2 of the 2017 Eastern Conference semifinals against Washington Wizards.

James Harden led Brooklyn with 41 points as he shot 11 of 18 and hit seven 3-pointers, tying the franchise postseason record for 3s.

Durant added 39 but Kyrie Irving struggled in his first appearance in front of Boston fans since leaving Celtics in 2019.

Irving heard boos all night and profane chants at times while being held to 16 points on 6-of17 shooting.

HAWKS 105, KNICKS 94 Trae Young collected 21 points 14 assists to lift host Atlanta to a win over New York in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference first-round series.

Bogdan Bogdanovic scored 15 points and John Collins added 14 for Hawks, who ben-

tion will be held between August 28 and September 19. A lot of the top Caribbean players and many other big-name overseas players and coaching staff are

efitted from a late 22-5 surge to end the second quarter and seize a 2-1 lead in the best-ofseven series. Game 4 is Sunday afternoon in Atlanta.

their Western Conference firstround playoff series. The Mavericks lead the best-of-seven series 2-1 heading into Game 4 today in Dallas.

Jayson Tatum scored a playoff career-high 50 points to lead Boston Celtics to a 125-119 victory over visiting Brooklyn Nets in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference first-round series on Friday night

Clint Capela recorded 13 points and 12 rebounds and former Knick Danilo Gallinari sank all four of his 3-point attempts to finish with 12 points for Hawks. Atlanta sank 16 of 27 shots from 3-point range for a blistering 59.3 percent.

CLIPPERS 118, MAVERICKS 108 Kawhi Leonard scored 36 points and visiting Los Angeles rallied from a big early deficit to defeat Dallas in Game 3 of

Paul George scored 29 points, Reggie Jackson finished with 16 points and Marcus Morris Sr made three 3-pointers in the fourth quarter and scored 15 for Clippers, who trailed by 19 points in the first quarter.

Leonard shot 13 of 17 from the floor and added eight rebounds.

Luka Doncic scored 44 points to lead Dallas, but missed six of 13 free throws, and Jalen Brunson and Maxi Kleber scored 14 each for the Mavericks.

involved in the CPL. While BCCI has opened a dialogue with CPL to try and convince them to tweak their schedule, which could then allow players to move between the bubbles in St

Kitts (the CPL venue) and the UAE quickly, it will not be an easy task.

Advancing the CPL is hardly an option because West Indies’ home season ends on August 24, only four days before the CPL starts, and includes series against South Africa, Australia and Pakistan. The BCCI remains confident that in case the CPL can end even a few days earlier than the current end date of September 19, it can wrap up the IPL in time before the main leg of the T20 World Cup. At the time the IPL was suspended, there were still 31 matches, including the four playoffs, left to be played. With India continuing to be in the middle of a second wave of COVID-19, there were strong doubts about India hosting the second half of the IPL. Upon returning to Australia, Hussey said that he had doubts even about the T20 World Cup being held in India.

This will be the second successive year the UAE will be hosting the IPL. In 2020 the BCCI had conducted the entire tournament split among Dubai,

Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. Those three venues are likely to play hosts once again after the BCCI finalises the dates for the IPL, which remains its primary challenge now that it has announced the September-October window.

Time running out for decision on T20 World Cup The ICC, too, has been clear that the window for the T20 World Cup, which is likely to be held between October 16-20 and November 14, cannot be changed.

The ICC would also want the BCCI to take a call on whether the 16-team T20 World Cup, already postponed once last year, can be hosted in India or should it also be moved to the UAE, which was nominated as the back-up venue.

The BCCI said the SGM had “authorised the office-bearers to seek an extension of time from the ICC to take an appropriate call” on hosting the T20 World Cup. The issue is one of the key items on the agenda of the ICC Board meet, scheduled for June 1, which BCCI president Sourav Ganguly is expected to attend. (ESPN Cricinfo)

Brentford beat Swansea to reach Premier League BRENTOFRD will play in the Premier League for the first time next season after beating Swansea City 2-0 in the Championship playoff final.

Ivan Toney’s penalty put them on the road to the top flight before Emiliano Marcondes’ crisp far-post finish.

Thomas Frank’s team will play at the highest level for the first time since 1946-47 having eased past a Swansea side who finished with 10 men.

Victory could be worth about £178M to the west London club.

The Bees were beaten in last season’s second-tier play-off final by Fulham, who ran out 2-1 winners after extra time.

But the pain of Brentford’s last visit to this stadium turned to elation as they finally tasted play-off success at the 10th time of asking, and next season they will become the 50th club to play in the Premier League.

Swansea’s hopes of rejoining the elite disappeared as they failed to produce their best at Wembley, with any hope of a second-half comeback not helped by the contentious dismissal of Jay Fulton for a foul on Mathias Jensen.

BRENTFORD’S BIG DAY FINALLY COMES Brentford fans have waited a long time for a moment like this.

This was the club’s 10th

play-off campaign and fifth final, with previous trips to Wembley coming in 1997, 2013 and last season, while there was a Millennium Stadium meeting with Stoke in 2002.

THE GRAND TOTAL OF PLAY-OFF PROMOTIONS BEFORE TODAY? Zero. There have been three EFL Trophy final losses, too, so Brentford will feel they were due a victory on the big stage.

Driven on perhaps by the memory of their most recent Wembley reverse, which came only 10 months ago, Frank’s side finally found a path to victory.

Brentford’s win was made in the opening quarter, when they went in front courtesy of the first attack of any note.

Sergi Canos slid the ball in behind the Swansea rearguard for Bryan Mbeumo, and goalkeeper Freddie Woodman raced off his line but made contact with player rather than ball.

Even on this grand stage, Toney appeared totally unflustered as he ambled up and rolled the spot-kick low into the bottom corner of the net, beyond the dive of the despairing Woodman.

Buoyed by their opener and with Swansea struggling to get going - Brentford swiftly doubled their advantage.

The move started when a long throw into the Brentford box was cleared to Mbeumo, who carried the

ball deep into opposition territory before feeding the overlapping Mads Roerslev.

The Dane lifted the ball across goal for Marcondes to rifle a fierce, low drive inside Woodman’s near post.

Swansea were reeling.

Any hope Steve Cooper’s side had of a response may have been wiped out within a minute, as Toney’s dipping long-range volley beat Woodman only to hit the underside of the crossbar and bounce away to safety off the line.

Brentford eased their way through to the break, with the one first-half scare for David Raya coming when Andre Ayew met Conor Hourihane’s free-kick with a looping header which hit the top of the bar.

Swansea’s only genuine chance came early in the second period, when Connor Roberts crossed for Ayew but he could only glance a header wide of the far post.

Brentford threatened again, with Mbeumo lifting wastefully over, before Fulton’s unfortunate dismissal all but finished Swansea off.

The midfielder appeared to tread accidentally on Jensen before slipping as his studs got caught, but referee Chris Kavanagh flashed the red card in an instant.

With that Swansea were beaten and it is Brentford who can look forward to facing Manchester City, neighbours United, Liverpool and company next season. (BBC Sport)

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ICC announces playing conditions for WTC Championship Final THE International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the playing conditions for the ICC World Test Championship Final featuring India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton next month.

The playing conditions confirm that a draw or a tie will see both teams crowned as joint winners as well as the allocation of a Reserve Day to make up for any lost time during the regular days of the Final – scheduled to be played from June 18 to 22, with June 23 set aside as the Reserve Day. Both of these decisions were made in June 2018, prior to the commencement of the ICC World Test Championship.

The Reserve Day has been scheduled to ensure five full days of play, and it will only be used if lost playing time cannot be recovered through the normal provisions of making up lost time

each day. There will be no additional day’s play if a positive result is not achieved after five full days of play and the match will be declared a draw in such a scenario.

Reserve Day may be used.

The final decision on whether the Reserve Day needs to be used will be announced at the scheduled start of the last hour on the fifth day.

India captain Virat Kohli (left) and New Zealand captain Kane Williamson

In the event of time being lost during the match, the ICC Match Referee will regularly update the teams and media about the way in which the

The match will be played using Grade 1 Dukes cricket balls.

The final will also see the implementation of the follow-

ing changes to international playing conditions that came into effect with the ongoing ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League series between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka: Short Runs – The Third Umpire will automatically review any call of a ‘short run’ by the On-field Umpire and communicate the decision to the On-field Umpire prior to the next ball being bowled.

Player Reviews – The fielding captain or the dismissed batsman may confirm with the Umpire whether a genuine attempt has been made to play the ball prior to deciding whether to initiate a player review for LBW. DRS Reviews – For LBW reviews, the height margin of the Wicket Zone has been lifted to the top of the stumps to ensure the same Umpire’s Call margin around the stumps for both height and width. (ICC Media)

Billy Joe Saunders thanks supporters for support following eye surgery

THREE weeks after his eighth-round stoppage loss to Canelo Alvarez in their unification match on May 8, former two-division world champion Billy Joe Saunders spoke to his fans a few days ago.

S u r p r i s i n g l y, t h e 31-year-old Saunders (301, 14 KOs) had only a handful of words to say to his loyal boxing fans, who have been waiting to hear about his condition after his right eye surgery to repair a fractured orbital bone.

“To all my fans, thank you very much for all the support over the last few weeks,” said Saunders in the short video. “I have not been in line to answer you all. Many to answer.

But thank you very much, people. God bless you all”.

Saunders is expected to resume his career after his eye fully heals and he’s given medical clearance to fight again. It could take many months before Billy Joe can get back in the ring. Until then, it’s going to take time for him to heal slowly.

Saunders’ promoter Eddie Hearn says he would like to set up a fight between him and Chris

Eubank Jr when he resumes his career.

That’s not an ideal fight to make for Saunders in his return to action because he could get hurt again from the uppercuts that Eubank Jr likes to throw.

What Saunders showed in his loss to Canelo was a flaw in his game in which he bends forward with both arms down by his sides.

throughout his 12-year professional career until meeting up with Canelo, who immediately saw the flaw in his game and took advantage.

It would be better for Saunders to get a new trainer before returning to the ring and to focus more on fringe level opposition at 168 before tackling the big dogs.

Saunders might be able

The blow from Canelo Alvarez which caused a fracture of the orbital bone

It’s bad enough that Saunders is bending forward, but he makes himself even more vulnerable by hanging his arms uselessly by his sides, inviting his opponents to throw uppercuts.

Saunders had gotten away with this bad habit

to preserve his career if he can hire a dietician to help him get his weight down so he can return to the 160lb division.

Billy Joe is too weak of a puncher to campaign at 168, and he could get hurt again if he fights a top super middleweight

like David Benavidez or Caleb Plant.

Good options for Saunders’ next fight: Lennox Allen, Alantez Fox, John Ryder, Gabe Rosado, Kamil Szeremeta, Hugo Centeno Jr and Tureano Johnson.

“It will be a very long and emotional time until Billy Joe can be replaced,“ said Saunders’ trainer Mark Tibbs.

“You must look at it like it fell to one of the pound-for-pound greats like it is. Canelo Alvarez and that he put up a great fight before him.”

(Boxing News 24)

Essex complete three-day win over Durham

Cameron Bancroft became the first of Jamie Porter’s four second-innings wickets

JAMIE Porter claimed four wickets and Peter Siddle three as Essex completed a three-day demolition of Durham at the Emirates Riverside.

Porter finished with 4-31 and Siddle 3-47 to seal a resounding victory by dismissing Durham for 189.

Set a daunting target of 385, the home side made a solid start to reach 104-2, opener Alex Lees top-scoring with 48.

But their last eight wickets fell for 85 as Essex strengthened their chances of a top-two finish in Group One. Essex added another 38 runs to their lead in the morning, with Simon Harmer unbeaten on 47 as the visitors were eventually bowled out for 301.

Ben Raine picked up the last two wickets, returning figures of 5-64 and claiming his 300th first-class victim in the process by taking out last-man Porter’s middle stump.

Porter promptly struck an early blow when Durham began their chase, bowling Cameron Bancroft in the third over, but although Sam Cook pinned Scott Borthwick lbw for 29, Lees and Michael Jones put together a stand of 57.

However, Lees departed two short of his half-century, miscuing Ryan ten Doeschate to mid-off, and that paved the way for Essex to re-establish control.

Cook (2-39) dismissed Jones (35) before Siddle removed Jack Burnham and Ned Eckersley in quick succession and Porter struck twice in the space of three deliveries, bowling Brydon Carse and David Bedingham (32).

Siddle picked up his third wicket when Raine was caught behind and, although Durham’s last pair held up proceedings for another half-hour, Porter applied the killer blow by taking out Matthew Potts’ middle stump. (BBC Sport)

English Racing Tips Fontwell 08:50 hrs Drakes Well 09:25 hrs Old Harry Rocks 10:00 hrs Magical Thomas 10:35 hrs Max Dynamo 11:10 hrs Sammy Lou 12:20 hrs Bazarov 12:50 hrs Flintara

Irish Racing Tips Navan 08:15 hrs Prettiest O8:45 hrs Admiraloftheblue 09:20 hrs Art Of Unity 09:55 hrs Malawi 10:30 hrs Charterhouse 11:05 hrs Bear Story 11:40 hrs Adelisa 12:15 hrs Nusra

Kelso 08:57 hrs Trail Boss 09:32 hrs Haul Away 10:07 hrs French Crusader 10:42 hrs Lulu Baloo 11:52 hrs Point The Way 12:25 hrs Betty Baloo

South Africa Racing Tips 08:30 hrs La Fille 09:05 hrs South Boy 09:40 hrs Oyster King 10:15 hrs Dark Tide 10:45 hrs Pin Up

34

SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 30, 2021

Linden’s very own Marian Burnett has no regrets after an impressive athletics career

By Joe Chapman

LINDEN’S very own Marian Joan Burnett is back in her hometown on holiday, as she ponders her next move towards allowing young athletes acquire the necessary assistance to aspire to representing Guyana at the highest levels in athletics.

Burnett is one such athlete who would have understood the benefit of opportunities out there for athletes in need from countries like Guyana.

She got her break to Essex County College back in 1999 after showing some resilience after glimpses of her talent sparked when she ran the second fastest time going into the finals of the 800 metres at the Barbados-held Central America and Caribbean Games; but failed to medal. She bounced back to capture a bronze medal in the 1 500 metres, taking to the track against her the doctor’s advice as she was not feeling well.

From there it was no turning back as she graced the international scene thereafter to be Linden’s most decorated athlete.

At Essex, Burnett won 10 national titles in just two years and was on the Essex County 4x800-metre relay team that set a junior college national record in 2000.

The 16-time All-American won the indoor and outdoor 800-metre titles in each of her two years at Essex County College and was selected the Most Outstanding Athlete at the 2000 NJCAA Indoor Championships after

winning three gold medals and two silver medals.

She graduated from Essex with a 3.16 GPA and was selected as a recipient of the Presidential Scholarship.

Coming from Essex County to Louisiana State University, it was rare that an athlete entering the NCAA Division 1 would register at such a high position in such a prolific fashion.

Fans would recall in 2002 that the Guyanese track star was among several National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) champions honoured by then U.S. President George W. Bush at a Champions Day ceremony at the White House in Washington, D.C. This time, Burnett’s feat was not on the track, instead it was ‘as a result of her outstanding sports performances.

And Burnett took the opportunity to let the world know that there exists a country called Guyana of which she is proud.

In March 2002, Burnett had won LSU’s first-ever NCAA indoor 800m champion title, and anchored the 4x400m relay squad to 3rd place to largely contribute to the Lady Tigers winning the champion team honours.

And the middle-distance track star, competing in the South Eastern Conference (SEC) of the U.S. National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) track and field circuit, had claimed the number one ranking at 800 metres following a string of impressive showings.

Burnett vividly remembers she had to run to

make the qualifying time for the Athens Olympics.

There were two times - the B Standard which was 2:01 and the A Standard 2:00.

According to Burnett she was the best in Guyana and they could have taken her to run in the ‘B’ Standard. But it was reported that the USbased athlete Marian Burnett would not represent Guyana in Athens if she does not upgrade her `B’ standard qualifying time to `A’ standard.

Marian Burnett in action

The Amateur Athletic Association of Guyana (AAA) stated categorically that it is the association’s policy that no overseas-based athletes will be able to represent Guyana at the Olympics or any other major international meet, if they do not attain the required `A’ standard quali-

fying time.

This surfaced in the press and the question was asked if the AAA will revisit its policy, with regard to having Burnett represent Guyana at the Athens, Greece Olympics with her `B’ standard qualifying time?

At that time it was reported also that local coaches were against the idea of the AAA sending overseas-based athletes to these meets with the `B’ standard, in preference of local athletes who have no sort of facility for training and who need the exposure on internationally accepted tracks.

But, Burnett answered her critics and at the Palo Ato, Memorial Games in California, USA she clocked 1:59.47, on 31st May, 2004 to break the National 800 metres record and thus securing her place for the Athens, Greece Olympics in 2004.

Burnett also holds the National record over 1,500m for women with a time of 4:17.91 achieved on 27th July 2007, at the Pan American Games in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil and the National 800 metres Indoor record also.

Looking back at her pursuits Burnett said; “I went to Essex County College in 1999 and in 2001 to LSU until 2004.

“It was different because in Guyana you run on the road and the grass but when you go to Essex County you run on a track.

We did not get a track and we trained on the gym floor when we got there

and go to a park which was about a mile away.

Run to the Park and work out there.

“Then we get one meal ticket to go and eat meal. If you needed academic assistance you could have gotten it but I did not need that. I was a little bit nervous but I did pretty well.

“In Junior College she obtained an Associate of Science Degree in June 2001, majoring in Physical Education and after she continued the programme at LSU with Bachelor of Science Degree in June 2004, and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Sociology in December 2004” Burnet reminisced.

Burnett won a bronze medal in the 800m at that year’s Central American and Caribbean Games (CAC) in 2010 in Puerto Rico after not being in the best of health.

The mother of two, Anita aged 8 and Aden who is 10 years old, is now employed at LSU as a strategy tutor with athletes. She says: “My job is to ensure the students stay on top of their academics, make sure they don’t miss any exams, make sure they prepare for the exams and I do one-on-one sessions or group sessions every day.”

She has graced every international meet in the world of athletics be it the Commonwealth Games, Pan American Games, Central and Caribbean Games, World Indoor Championships, World Championships, South American Games, Pan American Games, Olympic Games in 2004 and 2008 where

she reached the semifinals both times, among other big meets in Greece, Brazil, the United States of America, the Caribbean, Europe, Germany, Spain, Russia, Hungary, Dominican Republic, United Kingdom, Barbados, Finland, Australia, Japan, China, and Puerto Rico.

“So with my job I get the type of kids that are capable of doing it, but they are lazy. And if they are to graduate I am the one that must ensure they do not quit. And at times they are the ones that just don’t care.

“So I have to use my athletic ability and use my experience because I was once a student-athlete, so it is easy for me to relate to the student athletes. And I don’t mind going to their level to get them to do it,” she continued.

The former policewoman recalls having to leave Linden to join the Guyana Police Force to get the necessary support needed to perform at the highest level and credits this to former Commissioner of Police Laurie Lewis, who backed her throughout her stint there and facilitated her leave to take up the scholarship at Essex County College.

The two-time Guyana ‘Sportswoman-of-theYear’ winner is keen on giving back to athletes who are willing to excel both academically and on the field and will do her best to ensure they are given a chance of a lifetime as she had back in 1999.

Ian Chappell has interesting solution to stop ball-tampering IT seemed like the 2018 Newlands Test ball-tampering was done for good when Australia recovered from the stigma and controversies surrounding one of their lowest-ever

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ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S:

Rohan Kanhai-256 (Kolkatta, 1958-59) Sunil Gavaskar-236* (Chennai, 1983-84)

TODAY’S QUIZ:

Which WI player has captured most Test wickets against IND to date?

Which IND bowler has claimed most Test wickets against the WI to date?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

period in cricket until Cameron Bancroft came with a shocking revelation.

The Australia opening batter revealed that bowlers already knew about it before it was carried out.

With strong revelations made by the batter, Cricket Australia (CA) decided to conduct the review meeting where the bowlers were questioned on the same. Former Australia cricketer Ian Chappell has come up with an interesting idea, which he believes may stop players from using illegal means to change the condition of the ball.

The cricketer-turned-commentator is known for his street smartness and strong views and this time too, he has given a very practical idea on how to tackle the situation.

“I think about 20 years ago, I said what they should do is go to the captains of every country and you get a list of things that they think will help the ball swing. Then you send us all these lists, we’ll go through them and we’ll come up with one thing and it will be a sensible thing, not using a bottle cap to scrape the ball. It’ll be viable but we’ll give you one thing that’ll help you swing the ball and everything else will be illegal,” Chappell said during a discussion on ESPNcricinfo.

The 70-year-old also stated that maybe his suggestion might not work, but added that it can give something to the bowlers in a game that predominantly favours the batters.

“Maybe I am naïve, but think, if you did that you might stop all the other shenanigans, because you give them something in return,” Chappell added. (CricTracker)

Former Australia captain Ian Chappell

SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 30, 2021

35

Golden Jaguars off to Antigua camp before FIFA World Cup qualifiers THE Guyana Senior Men’s National football team departed from Ogle airport yesterday to commence a training encampment in Antigua and Barbuda, ahead of their final two matches in round one of the CONCACAF 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) was rushed into making last-minute plans to use Antigua and Barbuda as its training base after the St. Kitts and Nevis authorities informed that the team will not be permitted to arrive in that country until June 2 for the June 4 game on the advice of their National COVID-19 Task Force.

The Golden Jaguars, who were scheduled to travel on May 29 to St Kitts and Nevis, will now arrive there on June 2 and GFF president Wayne Forde said, “We are extremely grateful

to the authorities and our football colleagues in Antigua and Barbuda for facilitating this encampment,

and staff all the best in training over the coming days, and for the challenge that lies ahead. These two

ning and we know that the support of the whole nation will make a huge difference for the players.

Rico on June 8, with both fixtures taking place in St Kitts and Nevis due to logistical challenges created

The Golden Jaguars squad before their departure yesterday from the Ogle airport

so that the Golden Jaguars can prepare properly as a unit before these vital fixtures.”

“We wish the players

matches – and results – will decide our FIFA World Cup fate, the GFF said in a release, last evening.

“We are still in the run-

National Cycling Championships to conclude today with circuit race

… Masters, Females. Juniors in action

THE Guyana Cycling Fed- event this month, will look Crandon placed fourth in eration’s (GCF) National for another clean sweep.

25:16.06 and Selena Stephens Cycling Championships is When she competed in fifth in 29:07:18. scheduled to conclude this the five-mile time trials last Also looking for a clean morning with the Females, Saturday, she registered a sweep of the National Masters and Juniors/Juve- comfortable two-plus min- Championships will be Steniles in action in Mahaica. ute victory. phen Fernandes, who was Cyclists will battle over H a m i l t o n s u rg e d t o outstanding in the 10-mile25 miles and 50 miles respec- 19:59.20. Clivecia Spencer long Masters battle at last tively around a circuit that is finished second in a time Saturday’s time trials.

6.25 miles long. of 22:18.31, while Shenika Fernandes (31:37.84), According to information Tiexeira finished third in finished over 45 seconds from the federation, cyclists 24:34.37. ahead of Paul Choo-weewill pedal off from KK Gas Thirteen-year-old Alecia nam (32.23.77). Jaikarran Station up New Sukhai placed third in Road and down that race and should Old Road in Maalso be in the thick of haica for the finish. things today.

The event is The Junior division set to pedal off at will be another excit07:30hrs. Females ing battle, since last will race around Saturday’s time trial the circuit four winner, 13-year-old times for a total of Alex Leung will be the 25 miles, while the cyclist to beat.

Masters and Junior/ He finished over Juveniles will race 11 seconds ahead of over eight laps for Sherwin Sampson and a grand total of 50 16 plus seconds ahead miles. of Aaron Newton.

With the seDavid Hicks, who niors having alwon the Indepenready completed dence Three-Stage their events, the event, will look to other big names rebound from his in the sport will fourth-place finish at look to claim their the time trials. stake today.

Mario WashingIn the Female ton, who won the first Division, Suzanne stage of the IndepenHamilton, who dence Meet and place won the Ministry overall, will also look of Culture, Youth to rebound from his and Sport Indepenfifth position at the Stephen Fernandes will look for a dence Three-Stage time trials. clean-sweep in the Masters division

“Let’s roar with the Jags in June,” he said.. Currently in third place in Group F, Guyana play St.Kitts and Nevis on June 4 and Puerto

by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Only the top team from each group will qualify for the second round of the CONCACAF qualifiers.

Head coach Marcio Maximo has made six changes to the squad that lost 3-0 to Trinidad and Tobago and beat The Bahamas by four goals to nil in March, as he seeks to inject new energy, increase competition for places as well as build for the future.

“We’ve selected players who we see are in fully professional environments overseas because we want players who will really add something to the domestic group as well as mostly young players who are at a high level,” Maximo said.

“That is why we made some changes to the non-domestic group, and also in the domestic group, because competition should be there continuously to grow a strong group and to guarantee thepresent and the future of Guyana’s football.”

Simmons urges consistency as negative tests pave way for four-day game GROS ISLET, St Lucia, (CMC) – All members of the West Indies training squad have tested negative for COVID-19, paving the way for head coach Phil Simmons to ramp up preparation for the two-Test series against South Africa starting in 12 days.

However, the 26-year-old, who is still asymptomatic, tested negative in last Thursday’s round of testing but will remain in isolation until he returns a second negative test.

Preparation will move into high gear on Monday when a four-day match gets underway

West Indies head coach Phil Simmons (left) is urging consistency from players

The latest round of PCR testing was conducted Thursday and with no positives reported, the 30-man squad were allowed to train in two groups on Friday and Saturday at the Daren Sammy National Stadium.

Previously, the squad was forced to train in smaller groups after Jamaican speedster Marquino Mindley tested positive for COVID-19 last week.

at the training venue, and Simmons urged players – especially those who had excelled in recent series – not to rest on their laurels.

“I am happy that we are back to full training. We are happy with the preparations up to this point and everyone is fully aware of what is required,” Simmons said in a statement.

“Yes, we had four good Test matches [against Ban-

gladesh and Sri Lanka], but at the same time, people need to know that their position is not guaranteed unless they continue to play well.

“Guys who are out need to show that they want to get back in by doing well in these games. So, it is a benefit to every one of us.”

The 30-man squad features the likes of Nkrumah Bonner, Kyle Mayers and Joshua Da Silva, all of whom have starred for West Indies this year with the bat, in series against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

Also in the group, however, is Shai Hope who was axed for last December’s tour of New Zealand, but flourished in the One-Day International series against Sri Lanka last March with a hundred and two half-centuries.

All-rounder Roston Chase, a fixture in the Test side in recent years but recently dropped following a run of poor form, has been included in the training group and will be hoping to impress.

The squad will be whittled down in the lead-up to the first Test which bowls off June 10-14, with the second match getting underway from June 18-22.

South Africa are scheduled to arrive here next Tuesday.

Chelsea win their second Champions League title (Image credit: Getty Images)

Chelsea win second Champions League title in club history SEE PAGE 31

From left: Chelsea Edghill’s mother Deidre Baynes-Edghill, GTTA president Godfrey Munroe, GOA president K.A. Juman-Yassin, Chelsea Edghill and coach Idi Lewis (Elvin Croker photo)

GOA invests US$12,000 in Chelsea Edghill’s Olympic preparation SEE PAGE 31

SEE PAGE 35

Golden Jaguars off to Antigua camp before FIFA World Cup qualifiers

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, MAY 30, 2021