Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 09-05-2022

monday 9th may, 2022

No.106717

Guyana is in ‘Golden era’ –– Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Gail Teixeira tells Toronto meeting 03 PAGE

A policeman rides through a ring of fire at Gymkhana From left are: The winners of the Junior, Middle and Senior categories of the 2022 Mother and Daughter 2022 held at the Police Sports Club Ground, Eve Leary Pageant held at the National Cultural Centre on Saturday night (Carl Croker photo) on Sunday (Carl Croker photo)

Region Six gears up Over 300 Walton 20 properties suffer to minimise flooding 13 Hall residents to 09 damage during freak 08 during rainy season receive land titles storm at Bath Settlement PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 9, 2022

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 9, 2022

Guyana is in ‘Golden era’ - Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Gail Teixeira tells Toronto meeting

By Frederick Halley HAILING what has been taking place in Guyana recently as the “Golden era”, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Gail Teixeira said she firmly believes “that this is our time since as a people we have worked hard. We have had our differences as a people but this is our time.”

Delivering remarks at a meet and greet last Friday night at the Guyana Consulate in Toronto, the minister pointed out that almost two years after becoming President, Dr Irfaan Ali has shown no sign of slowing down in his effort to build a better Guyana, even though the country has been affected by floods, the pandemic and other challenges.

According to the minister, “All the forces are

aligned in our favour in terms of our natural resources, whether accidentally or on purpose. We are one of the last-remaining rainforests, something that we should be very proud of. We are one of the few countries in the world with deforestation levels of .006 per cent.”

Teixeira informed the audience that Guyana, despite all that is happening, is in a position that it has never been before. “With oil and gas, this gives us an opportunity to transform our nation with the kind of resources that we’ve never had before.

There are environmentalists who are saying, don’t take the oil out of the ocean, leave it there, but then how are we to develop? Are we to be left as one of the poorest nations in the hemisphere, is that what we want for the future of Guyanese?” she asked.

Teixeira also noted that

attention will not be shifted from agriculture.

“So we are not doing what many countries have done with oil and gas, where they forget about other sectors and just depend on oil.

We are not doing that. Oil will finish, it is finite, so we are going to gain from revenue from that, but use that to develop the other sectors that we can manage our country and be sustainable, regardless whether oil is there or not.”

Boasting that there’s a mood that’s taking place in Guyana “of hope, cautious optimism as you know we as Guyanese have gone through many things and sometimes when good happens, we are looking for the bad that comes after; we tend to be kind of tentative, but there’s a lot happening, not only in [the] oil-and-gas sector, but also in the other sectors

-- agriculture in particular.”

YOUNG PEOPLE “We are moving into agro-processing. The President is promoting shadehouses and we have started with the first set which are going to be projects for young people to take over and manage.”

This project is being launched to help young people get involved in agriculture and to promote the cultivation of high-value crops.

“These are all areas in terms of our relations with the region. Guyana is a primary country as regards agriculture in CARICOM and we lost that. We have now regained that and thanks to the relationship between the Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Motley, who is a force to be reckoned with, and also our President, have opened up all sorts of doors for us in terms of Barbados

Minister Teixeira with the staff at the Guyana Consulate in Toronto

will be training some 5,000 Guyanese in the hospitality industry. We will also acquire black belly sheep from Barbados.

“We in turn are working with Barbados to have a hub there to deal with gold jewellery, so that when cruise ships go there they have a variety of jewellery to choose from,” said the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance.

SYSTEMS IN PLACE Pointing out that Guyana has managed both its forests and mining sectors well, Teixeira assured the audience that so too will it be for the oil-and-gas sector as government is putting the right structures and frameworks in place for this to happen.

“We have brought in new legislations to deal with the Sovereign Wealth Fund and the board that are made up

Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira addressing the audience of non-politicians from both the government and opposition, who will manage the National Resource Fund (NRF) which is the revenue coming from oil and gas.

“We have an Investment Committee where the parliamentary opposition has a representative; we have the Local Content Legislation which will now try to protect the Guyanese community and the Guyanese companies, so that we don’t end up like many countries that have produced oil, where foreigners control everything and we don’t really benefit at all.”

“We use our oil and managing it well, so that it will filter down and improve the lives of our people across the country. We are going to use oil and gas to create an energy mix so that we will have gas, we will have hydro and of course some fossil fuel as well.

Overtime, fossil fuel will be phased out and we will be able to use other sources of energy. The big challenge we have as a country is providing cheap, affordable and reliable energy.”

Among those in attendance were Consul General (ag) Gerald Whyte and Executive Secretary Nutana Singh, who chaired the proceedings. The minister, along with President Ali, also attended the Guyana Festival Committee’s 56th Independence Gala on Saturday night. The President was visiting Toronto because of the death of his uncle, whose funeral took place on Saturday.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 9, 2022

Philippines head to polls in pivotal elections

Bongbong is the son of Imelda and Ferdinand Marcos (BBC/GETTY IMAGES)

Voting has begun in the Philippines, as millions head to the polls today to choose their next President.

The man tipped to win the presidency is Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr, the son of the nation’s former dictator.

If polls suggesting a landslide victory pan out, it will mean the powerful Marcos political dynasty, will sweep back into office.

His closest rival is Leni Rebredo who beat Mr Marcos in the 2016 vice-presi-

dential elections.

Thousands of other roles will also be up for grabs in the general election, including senator posts and seats in the House of Representatives.

A high turnout is expected of the nation’s eligible 67 million voters - many of whom are young people.

Whoever wins will take over from Rodrigo Duterte, the outspoken leader who’s come to the end of his constitutionally-enforced six-year term in office.

Duterte’s government has been criticised for its brutality in cracking down on drugs and crime, though the administration has always rejected allegations of wrongdoing.

He, his wife Imelda Marcos - who is infamous for her vast designer wardrobe - along with their cronies, plundered an estimated $10bn from public funds. He was forced out of power in 1986 and died soon afterwards. After his family was allowed back into the country in the

1990s, Bongbong carved out political footholds, becoming a province governor, congressman and senator.

In 2016 he ran for vicepresident allied with President Duterte, but lost to Leni Robredo - his main challenger in this contest.

Robredo is a human rights lawyer and liberal legislator who has consistently led campaigns against Duterte’s drugs violence and gender inequality.

She has vowed to tackle corruption, with her campaign slogan being: “Honest government, a better life for all”.

While behind in the polls, her rallies have drawn significant turnouts recently - particularly among younger, passionate “Pink Shirt” supporters who have launched a grassroots, door-knocking effort to win her votes.

The other candidates trail Marcos and Robredo.

They include boxing champion and national hero Manny Pacquiao who has promised to tackle corruption and poverty, and Manila’s city mayor Isko Moreno who has promised infrastructure spend and a harsher line on China.

Critics say the election has been plagued by rampant misinformation on social media.

Bongbong has been accused of using social media to sow disinformation and whitewash the history of the Marcos family - something they deny.

The common theme is that Marcos’s tyrannical rule was actually a “golden period” for the country -

despite the fact that the economy was on the brink, heavily in debt to foreign banks.

Bongbong has also largely steered clear of debates or forums where he might have to face independent questioning.

For Ms Robredo, also the sole female presidential candidate in the race, tracker groups have reported an escalation in the number of online campaigns harassing and vilifying her.

While misinformation is abundant online however, there is little indication that the vote might be questioned after voters have submitted their forms.

The Asian Network for Free Elections - a monitor has found past Philippines votes to be generally free and fair.

Polls are open from 06:00 to 19:00 (2200-1100 GMT) locally, although voting officials have said they will stay open if people are still waiting in line to cast their vote.

Filipinos are not only voting on the president but also the vice-president, senators, lower house legislators and thousands of lower-ranking officials across the whole archipelago’s 7,600 islands.

A turn-out of about 80 per cent -- as seen in previous elections -- is expected.

Counting will start the moment polls close and it may become clear in a few hours which candidates are pulling ahead. However, the process could also take days before a winner is announced, as was the case in 2016. (BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 9, 2022

T&T: Mother’s Day heartbreak for Couva couple after children murdered

The adage that time heals all wounds holds no truth for a Couva couple whose two children were shot dead at the family’s home two years ago.

Ann Chitbahal, 49, and her sickly husband, Tony Chitbahal, 58, said the kill-

ers not only took their children’s lives on April 23, 2020, but theirs as well.

Ann said Mother’s Day is another heartbreaking day without her beloved children Vishal, 25, and Vishanie, 23, fondly called Shanie.

Ann Chitbahal with a photograpgh of her murdered children, Vishanie and Vishal, at her Windsor Park, Couva home. The siblings were gunned down in 2020 (Trinidad and Tobago Newsday photo)

“They (killers) wrecked lives our lives that day.

We have nothing to live for. Our children were our lives. We were poor but happy together. This is the third year we are spending Mother’s Day without them,” Ann said in tears.

“One of the final Mother’s Day gifts I got from them was a food processor.

On Mother’s Day, I would get gifts from Shanie throughout the day, maybe every half an hour. If I am sitting on a chair and go inside, a gift would be on the chair when I return.”

The siblings were gunned down before daybreak two years ago by intruders who broke down the front door of the family’s humble wooden house at Windsor Park in California.

Vishanie and Vishal were the breadwinners.

The siblings did not have any children of their own.

Sitting next to her hus-

band, Ann added, “We can relate to anyone who has lost a child to murder. It is not an easy thing to deal with. We know the pain they are going through. It does not go away. Some mothers still have other children; we have none.

We lost our two. We have no one to call us Mom or Dad.” “They were good children with big plans. They were happy and healthy.”

On December 13, eight months after the double homicide, Ann said her mother, Rose Ramdeo, 72, died after grieving over their deaths. She died of natural causes.

“She could not take on the pressure of losing them. She grieved for them because they were very close. My daughter and son ran all her errands,” Ann said.

“My mother hardly ever visited after the murders. The few times she

came, she was busy to leave. She couldn’t stand being here. It seemed to be too stressful for her.”

Tony said he has diabetes and limited mobility. In October 2019, he had surgery for a pinched nerve.

The Chitbahal couple has fallen on hard times.

Termites have eaten away part of the house. An adjoining shed was demolished because it became a risk to their safety.

On seeing the couple’s hardship, friends and family pooled resources and began construction on the compound about two months ago. Work has stopped owing to insufficient funds.

“The children wanted to build a big house. But plans have changed. Vishal wanted a split-level house.

He drew a design, but now it is just my husband and me,” Ann said.

She repeatedly thanks relatives and well-wishers

for their prayers and generosity.

“God is good. Our relatives are always checking on us. People drop off hampers from time to time.

Sometimes get too many items and share them with less fortunate families,” Ann said.

Tony thanked everyone who has been helping them.

“All days are hard without our children. But Mother’s Day is harder for my wife. She cries for them every day. I cry too.”

Regarding the unfinished house, he said, “Money ran out, so the work is on hold. We would appreciate it if anyone wants to help with materials or anything.”

To date, the killers remain at large.

H o m i c i d e B u re a u Region III police are leading investigations.

(Trinidad and Tobago Newsday)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 9, 2022

Strategic Partnership

PRESIDENT, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali recently hosted a state visit by Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro.

President Ali and his team of senior officials which included Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips; Vice-President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo and several ministers of government discussed a number of issues which will serve to further deepen relations between the two neighbouring countries.

Guyana, as the only English-speaking country in mainland South America, presents a number of unique and distinct advantages, both from the strategic and trade perspectives. Because of its location, the country is regarded as the gateway to the entire Latin American region and for that matter, the western hemisphere as a whole.

Having regard to the above, it is only natural that the two countries would seek

to consolidate and further strengthen relations for the mutual benefit of the two nations. Indeed, Guyana and Brazil have had a long and productive relationship even before diplomatic relations were established on August 26, 1968, a mere two years after Guyana attained political independence. Since then, several cooperation agreements were signed between the two countries in a variety of areas including trade, commerce, agriculture and health, among others.

With Guyana now catapulted to the ranks of an oil-producing nation, the potential for the two countries to advance that relationship to a new and strategic level has never been greater. As noted by President Ali, this recent visit has resulted in the development of an ‘actionable framework’ in several new areas including energy, energy security, a deep-water harbour, infrastructure, agri-

culture, national security and defence.

At the infrastructural level, the Takutu Bridge linking Lethem to Bonfim has already resulted in a big boost to trade and commerce between the two countries, which will be further enhanced with the construction of a paved road linking Linden to Lethem and ultimately Georgetown to the city of Boa Vista, which is the capital of the Brazilian State of Roraima. The proposed railway link between Linden and Lethem will impact positively on business and commerce through reduced transportation costs and better logistical support.

The dynamics of a more resilient and robust economy has never been more evident, especially in the context of the transformational infrastructural developments that are currently underway.

Among these are the deepwater port; the road link;

fibre-optic connectivity; the development of an energy corridor; the creation of a free zone and the linkage of natural resource development to this project.

These are not stand-alone projects, but are all integrated within a much broader and holistic development framework. As noted by President Ali, “We are not talking about the deep-water port in isolation of these things; it is now one integrated project that we are looking at, and we have agreed to establish a team that will comprise of [sic] investors, the Federal Government of Brazil, the Government of Guyana and the State of Roraima.”

Guyana stands to benefit enormously from its economic and trade ties with Brazil, which has one of the strongest economies in Latin America and the Caribbean. It is the largest in the hemisphere both in terms of population size and geography. With a popu-

lation of 212 million and a global economic powerhouse, Guyana could benefit enormously in terms of market access and technology transfer.

Guyana with its vast and fertile agricultural lands could provide for a significant amount of the food needs of that country and both countries have agreed to expand and diversify trade in agriculture, which has always been a centrepiece of trading relations between the two countries, ever since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1968.

That relationship was further enhanced in 2001 with the signing of the Partial Scope Agreement in 2001, which in effect was aimed at fostering bilateral trade flows by the exchange of tariff preferences, trade cooperation and increased private-sector participation.

Brazil and Guyana have always enjoyed mutually beneficial relations based

on a high level of cordiality.

Indeed, Guyana’s security interests have been enhanced through the provision of military assistance in the form of warfare training and logistics. Culturally, the two countries have developed over the years strong ties, with an increasing number of Brazilians living in the country and working in several areas, including trade, commerce and mining.

The visit by the Brazilian President to Guyana has served to cement those relations which have been forged over the decades.

Both President Ali and his Brazilian counterpart have underscored the importance of economic cooperation way beyond oil and gas. According to President Ali, Guyana wants to have a strong strategic partnership with its Portuguese-speaking neighbour, a sentiment also shared by his Brazilian counterpart.

Changing the name of ‘Indian Arrival Day’ should be considered Dear Editor, DESCENDANTS of slaves in Guyana do not celebrate African arrival day. Why? Slavery was an abomination everywhere. There is nothing, absolutely nothing, to celebrate. So why do Indians in Guyana find it appropriate to “celebrate” Indian Arrival Day? How do we celebrate bondage, enslavement, and subjugation when we know of the violence associated with this trade?

Proponents of this socalled celebration provide many reasons to justify their ill- conceived and misdirected efforts. Unfortunately, those people are merely observe-ing the legacy of the indentured servants. Celebrating “Indians

arriving on a boat....” sends disturbing images to one’s mind, especially if one has had some familiarity with the literature and documentation of the British Parliament of that time.

Based on the recorded documents from the Parliament, nothing about these people’s “arrival” should be celebrated! The documents are available for review, please see if you could find reasons for celebration after reading the chronicled complaints presented by parliamentarians for investigation. Rather, Guyana finds a reason to “celebrate” everything. Go, please see all the activities, at cultural centres and elsewhere around the country demonstrate one

thing. It shows a legacy of indentured servants. And I agree, the accomplishments of the Indian people in Guyana following the end of bondage should be commended and recognised. But that recognition must not be confused with “celebrating the arrival of the Indians.”

Clearly, the brilliant minds of Guyana made a mistake in naming the event, “Indian Arrival Day.” Read the books, read David Dabydeen’s “Coolie Odyssey,” “coolie woman,” read the transcripts of investigations and the narratives of former Guyanese slaves who observed how Indians were mistreated. Note the slaves who formally complained and

whose complaints triggered a formal investigation of the British East India Company.

Some of you will be familiar with that organisation as the actual entity that dealt in the slave/indentured trade.

Again, if you did have some familiarity with “Indians arriving,” you will immediately conjure up an image of malnourished, sickly looking Indians disembarking ships, dirty, bewildered, crying women and children, newborn babies being breastfed.

That is the image of Indians arriving. Emaciated men terrified, petrified of British policemen on the wharf barking orders to match estate owners with new labour.

Now tell me, have you

seen any movie, any play at the cultural centre depicting those images of Indians arriving? Probably not.

So why are Indians “celebrating” Indian Arrival Day? Did the collective minds misunderstand the meaning of “celebration”? Examine these events across the country and you will not find anything remotely resembling what indentured servants endured.

If you find re-enactments of White massa beating and raping the women, please let me know. I want to thank the producer of that show.

Indians who arrived were illiterate and were exploited because of that. The British East India Company knew our foreparents could not read,

yet forced them to agree to a contract upon disembarking those ships and placing them in bondage.

To one and all, whoever were instrumental in the development and celebration or participation, you are minimising the magnitude of destruction sanctioned by the British. As you celebrate, reflect on the reasons why Indians cannot speak Hindi.

Reflect on those Muslims too who lost their culture, practices and language.

In the end, perhaps you too should call for a change in the name of the celebration or whatever they call it.

Yours sincerely, Gopaul S. Rampersaud Chapel Hill NC

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Development of media and media workers in a rapidly changing landscape –– at inaugural World Press Freedom Day Conference (May 3-4, 2022) at Arthur Chung Conference Centre Presentation by Professor Vibert Cambridge

I RECOGNISE the graduate students and participants. It is a pleasure to be here today to hit the ground running. I think the bottom line is how you apply the principles of communication for development C4D, in the continuous improvement of the human condition in Guyana.

This includes the processes used in the formulation and execution of national development interventions and projects and in fostering positive social change.

At its core, contemporary communication for development practice, as applied by the international development community, is systematic. It is creative and it involves the ethical use of a society’s communication assets to promote and support the creation and sustainability of just and caring societies It is systematic as it is based on research-based evidence. It is creative as its messages must be competitive in a highly competitive environment. It is ethical, as it should do no harm and it is expected to be a participatory process seeking to expand the participation of citizens in the very discrete phases in the application of communication for development.

These discrete phases, problem identification, the design and testing of the intervention, the implementation of the communication strategy, the monitoring of the process, the evaluation of the process and its outcome and redesign where necessary for sustainability.

In his address yesterday (Tuesday, May 3, 2022), President Ali provided a timely sketch of the rapidly changing landscape. He shared a prescriptive informed by the domestic and international realities he encounters daily as the nation’s Executive President, as the President of a newly oil-rich State with a fragile democracy.

His emphasis was on the instantaneousness of the current global communication landscape and the technologies and applications that are crucial to Guyana’s participation in the global marketplaces and in the governance of our society.

In addition to mentioning the rapidity and speed and reach of content, President Ali spoke about the landscape in need for a reaffirmation of ethics. He highlighted a cluster of issues surrounding content decency, freshness, rawness, objectivity, balance, for particular attention and context.

I consider President Ali’s high level survey of the landscape a valuable addition to my more than four decades of engagement with media practice and education in Guyana. Based on that, I offer

these preliminary remarks.

First, an additional comment on the landscape. The term Fourth Industrial Revolution is used to represent our present and rapidly arriving futures. It is a landscape of convergence where things are coming together based on the cloud, artificial intelligence, machine learning and things like Internet of Things. It is an environment of continuous change.

There’s an environment in which the user is the central force in the communication process. It is an environment of what we call transmedia storytelling.

Hypertext is part of the grammar;; knowledge, especially the co-creation of knowledge, is expected. There are new players in this environment. There are a multiplicative non-State actors, philanthropists, new media, entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurs. They have been in this new environment, an expansion of what is known as collaborative commerce and in this new landscape, there is the amplification of existing inequities in the society, and, as a result, constant demand for responses to these inequities.

As a consequence of this new and emerging landscape, there is disruption.

There are changes in the way organisations are structured and in the nation and in the nature of work. These are the imperatives of upskilling and reskilling. It is an environment that has had consequences for the classical formation of mass media.

No longer isn’t one for men, but there are many for men, new changes, new niches, cyber communities, taste cultures, it is also an environment of which consequences include attention overload. There are so many channels that the citizen has, his attention is overloaded. This new environment has impact on our inner selves.

So as we return to the perennial conversation, about education and training for the Guyanese media worker, we need to situate you with that desired destination of a sustainable, just and caring society.

In the context of now, we must ask questions, including those related to the nature and scope of the nation’s currently accessible communications infrastructure, our telephony, our Internet infrastructure, our Internet hubs. We must also ask questions about the nature of the content circulating in that globally connected infrastructure that we have in Guyana and we must ask questions about the existing state of humans of the human capital in the industry.

The Guyanese State has demonstrated a global communication network at the domestic level. The Guyanese State has demonstrated that it has the means to send government information to all 83,000 square miles of the dear land.

Although not the only media operator in Guyana, the State-owned outlets radio,

newspapers, television and social media are the dominant players in Guyana’s mixed landscape. They employ more media workers than any other sector in the industry. There are other players in the industry and these include an active and increasingly diverse, privately-owned set of operations.

This includes highly integrated multimedia operations, and the news aggregation innovations by media entrepreneurs like Gordon that have been made possible by the fourth industrial revolution. So how is the Guyanese media environment performing? A response to that now.

A study of Guyanese television programming in 2017 confirmed the persistence of patterns that were evident in 2009. More than 80 per cent of the content was international. More than 60 per cent appeared to be pirated in violation of intellectual property norms and more than 50 per cent were studio-bound, talking heads.

A rapid training needs assessment of NCN in 2019, reflected three clusters of training needs, for all clusters, all categories of staff within that system, in the policy and management sector, in the content and creative sector in the technological infrastructure sector and in the environmental maintenance sector.

Conversations with the National Broadcasting Authority in 2019 suggested that those training needs were pervasive across industry in Guyana. So clearly, the current conference and the launch of the Guyana Media and Communication Academy are strategic responses to a critical national challenge, the development and maintenance of shared intentionality, the Communication Foundation and coherence required for the development of sustainable, just and caring society.

This calls for an integrated national strategy, starting with the school system and extending to the graduate level at the University of Guyana. Central to this is curriculum. The curriculum for developing our media workers in the industry must be nimble and responsive to global and domestic landscapes. It must be interdisciplinary, it must embrace international pedagogy. It must facilitate the development of competencies in research, especially the mixed method, the mixed method approach that support participation. It must provide opportunities for applying theory-based intervention, and it must nurture and develop soft skills, such as empathy, facilitation and coordination.

And at this point, we must recognise the newly-launched Master in Communication Studies at the University of Guyana. They are three specialisations: strategic communication, social change communication and visual communi-

Professor, Vibert Cambridge cation. These specialisations recognise the centrality of communication for development in nation-building. Let me just remind that communication for development as a contemporary practice is the systematic, creative and ethical use of a society’s communication assets to promote and support the creation and sustainability of a just and caring society.

We have had a semester of practice to reflect on so far. The curriculum has been nimble. It has been responding to changes in the environment and in using the language of user experience research.

The research outcome from this founding cohort has provided several actionable insights and that’s what C4D does. It provides actionable insights in their individual research topics. They provided a map of the communication process and practices currently available in Guyana, ranging from those practices of the individual community. So those intrapersonal issues such as the challenge of skin bleaching, marijuana decriminalisation, intimate partner violence and athletics as a strategy for social change, the group also drew upon this robust orientation or research to develop a whole of society strategy to deal with a persistent national problem that of solid waste management.

So as we articulate the national strategy, the new graduate programme through the University of Guyana’s Center for Communication Studies must be part of this mix. They must begin a conversation on integrating the world class resources, now available through the new academy into the wider education and training conversation, especially the emerging graduate programme.

I anticipate that this issue will be on the agenda of an upcoming faculty meeting at the University of Guyana.

(Vibert C. Cambridge is professor emeritus, School of Media Arts and Studies, Ohio University)

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20 properties suffer damage during freak storm at Bath Settlement

SOME 20 damage-to-property reports have been made to the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) and Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) following a freak storm at the Bath Settlement area, Region Five, on Friday.

According to the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) in a release, various degrees of damage to properties and structures, mainly roofs and fences, were reported.

“The community is primarily consisted of [sic] farmers, and as such, some crops, chicken pens and storage sheds were also significantly impacted. One resident reported that a quantity of her baby chickens died as a result of the storm. Residents of Bath Settlement also reported that many household appli-

ances, furniture, mechanical, electronic and electrical equipment, clothing, school supplies and a motorcycle, all suffered extensive damage. Zinc sheets were seen scattered sporadically in several yards, belonging to several properties throughout the area,” the CDC release said.

It also noted that a quantity of food and cleaning hampers has been delivered to the Regional Chairman of Region Five and these are being distributed to Bath Settlement residents. Additional efforts are underway to assist those persons impacted by Saturday’s storm and they can begin to receive replacement sheets today, the CDC noted, pointing out that the RDC, NDC and other government agencies will continue to closely monitor the situation.

Meanwhile, the Hydrometeorological Office through the Ministry of Agriculture has advised all residents countrywide to prepare for consistent rainfall as the rainy season is in full effect.

“Between 30mm (1.1 inches) and 70mm (2.7 inches) of rainfall is expected over the next twenty-four (24) hours. Persons are urged to contact their local authorities if they are impacted in any way or the National Emergency Monitoring System (NEMS) on 600-7500 or 2261114 at any time,” the Hydrometeorological Office said.

The storm begun last Friday evening. It was a combination of unusually high winds and heavy rains.

A cone-shaped bout of wind was seen moving temporarily overhead.

scenes in the aftermath of the storm.

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guyana CHRONICLE monday, may 9, 2022

Media workers urged to adapt to ‘changing landscapes’

WITH rapid changes occurring locally and around the world in various sectors, there is need for media workers, particularly journalists, to adapt so that they can become better informed and can make a meaningful contribution to the development of the profession.

This was highlighted during the recently concluded two-day World Press Freedom Day Conference and Symposium held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre. Dozens of media workers from across the country took part in the inaugural event on May 3 and 4, 2022.

During a panel discussion held on the final day under the title, “Development of media and media workers in a rapidly changing landscape,” several veterans in the field, among others, spoke of the drastic changes that have taken place over the years.

Gordon Moseley, jour-

NCN CEO, Neaz Subhan (right) and veteran journalist, Gordon Moseley, during the panel discussion on May 4 (Delano Williams photo) nalist and founder of News Source; Neaz Subhan, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Communications Network (NCN); Dr Vibert Cambridge, professor at the University of Ohio who joined virtually and Alven Roosveldt, Director of Communication Service of Suriname, delivered opening remarks before fielding questions.

After noting that lots of

changes within the media have occurred over the years, Moseley said he was continuously encouraging fellow journalists to embrace them and adapt in order to be “in the know.”

Moseley said: “I listened to the President’s speech yesterday [May 3] and he spoke about so much [that] is happening that you might not be able to report all, but that tells you that our job becomes much more important,

because we then have to keep focus on all that’s happening and to report on those development issues.”

To this end, he noted that, as the country continued to move forward with all the drastic developments that were taking place, media workers must put themselves in a position to be better informed to further relay that information to their respective audiences.

NCN’s CEO later stated that, with the various changes over the years, the general public’s expectation has also changed. To support this point, Subhan explained that most persons expect to have their news in the fastest time possible.

On that note, he added, “All of us with a phone in our hand and internet, we can be able to bring whatever the situation is to a viewing audience, whether it’s small or large, but we can do that and given the power of sharing on social media, depending on what the content is, information gets around very, very quickly.”

Subhan reiterated some of the comments made by President Irfaan Ali in his feature address during the opening ceremony and later noted that lots more work will have to be done based on the current transformation and what is likely to come.

Meanwhile, Dr. Cambridge highlighted the need for the training of media workers and stated that the

curriculum for their development must be quick and responsive to both global and domestic landscapes.

The training, he said must further facilitate development of competencies in research among other things and further develop soft skills like empathy, facilitation and coordination.

The professor then took the time to recognise the University of Guyana’s Master Degree programmes which were launched in May 2021.

He said: “There are three specialisations in strategic communication, social change, communication, and visual communication. These specialisations recognise the centrality of communication for development in nation building.”

He went on to say that as the conversation about fostering development among media workers develops, these new programmes must be part of the mix.

Over 300 Walton Hall residents to receive land titles

ATTORNEY-GENERAL and Minister of Legal Affairs Mohabir Anil Nandlall on Saturday announced that over 300 Walton Hall residents will receive titles for the lands they currently occupy.

According to a Department of Public Information (DPI) report, Nandlall made the announcement during an outreach to Region Two to address decades-old land issues at Walton Hall and Jib villages, Essequibo Coast.

The Attorney-General was accompanied by Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal; Regional ViceChairman, Humace Odit and Prime Ministerial representative, Arnold Adams.

The first stop was at Walton Hall, where the Attorney-General announced that over 300 families will receive land titles/transport for lands they have been occupying for decades. This process will be facilitated by the Guyana Lands and Survey Commission (GLSC) and the Office of the Public Trustee, which falls under the Attorney General’s chambers.

Minister Nandlall explained that the lands were previously owned by a cooperative society whose members had passed away and therefore, the intention is to move the transport from a singular transport vested in the name of the co-op into

Attorney-General and Legal Affairs Minister, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, addressing the residents of Walton Hall, Region Two on Saturday (DPI photo)

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal assisting a resident of Walton Hall with a land issue (DPI photo) individual transports for persons who are occupying lands.

“The first step in the process is to get the lands surveyed, do a plan, individual plan to demarcate exactly where you are living, and then to begin the process… what is of crucial importance is that you indicate to the persons who drawing the plan the name that you will like the transport to be issued in,” he told the residents.

Similar issues were addressed at Jib village, where residents are occupying lands owned by the late A.P Singh. A large portion of those lands are under the administration of the Public Trustee, since Singh had no

relative laying claims to the lands. A small portion falls under the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA).

Minister Nandlall has assured the residents that the process of regularisation will commence, which will see persons being issued legal documents for their lands at a minimum cost.

“We [government] found a mechanism to allow the public trustee to come into the picture to help with the transaction, while at the same time achieving the objective, which is two-fold, giving you your title principally and giving your title at the lowest possible cost,” he explained.

The Attorney-General however noted that the residents have a major role to play in ensuring that the process proceeds smoothly.

He impressed upon them to ensure full cooperation with the GLSC and ensure they present themselves to sign the relevant documents necessary to move the process forward.

Minister Croal also stated the government’s commitment to ensure land-related issues across the Essequibo Coast are resolved in a timely manner. He said that the necessary policy mechanisms are being implemented in this regard.

In the Jib/Paradise area,

he reassured the residents that the team at CH&PA will work with them to ensure that the occupational surveys are completed in a timely manner, after which they will be issued with their titles/transport.

“At the end of the day, we want you to have that document that signals ownership so that you can do other things with it like getting a loan for expansion, and that is why we are here today,” the minister noted.

Representatives of the GLSC, Office of the Public Trustee and CHPA were also on the ground providing guidance to residents on the process. (DPI)

Residents of Jib, Region Two, being assisted by members of the team (DPI photo)

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When parents need control

WOULD you be surprised to learn that chemicals trigger emotions in your body?

Have you ever taken a look at your pattern of behaviour or your pattern of reaction? There is much more going on inside us than we can ac-

knowledge, think about or put into perspective.

Sometimes our usual way of dealing with problems needs modification. But our bodies (chemicals) are so used to the same feelings that it’s like an addiction.

In turn, we can become

stunted and unable to grow and learn more about ourselves, and others or move on from an emotional standpoint.

Have you ever heard someone use this phrase, “Well, it’s his way or the highway”. This example sums up an inflexible per-

son - someone so rooted in their way of thinking that there is no room for consideration or manoeuvre. Many people fail to see the negative effect their static behaviour has on others – or the damaging impact it can have on children.

When you interact with children daily, it is wise to do some introspection. Take a look at what you do and say, in your quiet moment, and how you do and say it – how do you come across?

When interacting with children, ask yourself if your approach is fair and in the child’s best interest?

Or is it charged with your shortcomings, mixed-up emotions, leftover anxieties, and debris from childhood dramas? Our experiences can make or break us; even as professional adults, we can still carry past traumas in our organs, muscles, skin and glands.

Have you ever asked a child to do something, such as carry out a chore or go to the shop for you and, straight away, their demeanour changes?

Their mouth pouts, their shoulders droop, they roll their eyes, and their body language tells you they are unwilling? You might say, ‘It’s okay, I will do it myself’, for a peaceful life. On the contrary, your reaction might be, ‘you playing a man in here, look! You best hustle and clean the yard before I knock you through that wall’.

Both children and parents have patterns of reaction, but adults being wiser, should recognise their harmful habits and cease using them. Parents can seek to devise and adopt a structured approach that works for them and their children; by understanding how these patterns are formed and stored in our bodies.

SAMMY’S STORY

‘I started sleeping out when I was 17-yearsold. My mum had little to say, and my dad couldn’t care less. He was always on my back when I was home, which led to arguments and scuffles between us. Once, he physically removed me from the house while my mother and siblings looked on in disbelief.

When we were small children keeping noise, dad would come in the room and pick on me; everything was always my fault, and even my siblings noticed. He’d overlook them and blame me. Over the years, he hardly had a good word to say about me; even when I did well in sports and won a trophy of achievement, I failed to impress him.

Of course, as a child, I just got on with life – I went to school each day, had fun with my friends and family and tried to stay on his good side. But deep down, I wanted him to appreciate and understand me – that was all I craved until I became an adolescent.

The day I turned 14, things changed. Dad was having his usual go at me due to a slight meaningless mishap. I remember clearly. He called me a good-for-nothing and said he’d knock out my teeth. That’s when something inside me suddenly snapped. ‘Go on’, I urged him, ‘you’re always threatening to do it, do it now, knock out my teeth.

He lunged at me, and we wrestled before somebody got in between us.

That was the turning point in our dysfunctional father/son relationship and the day I gave up trying to win his favour. I realised I had to stand on my own feet. Now I’m an adult with children, and I still cannot understand where his problem with me stemmed from or why I ignited that hostile flame

within him. All I know is he took out his passion on me.

I sometimes wonder how my young days would have been if I’d received his support instead of his resentment and if he had shown love and acceptance instead of loathing and unconcern towards me? Would I be a better person and a role model dad?

I try to give my children a worthy perception of who I am and what they can achieve in life, with all I hold dear. I pay them attention and support them in every way possible. To cut a long story short, they get what I never had.

Miscommunication or toxic behaviours between adults and children can fester and lead to dysfunctional relationships - if not recognised and dealt with swiftly and effectively. In many cases, adults hold the key and can change negative aspects of their relationship with children with a bit of insight, wisdom and strategy.

For instance, adults can change their reaction patterns. If a child appears unwilling, so be it; but stipulate your terms and put your foot down.

There will be no (whatever the child is into) until ‘whatever’ is completed thoroughly. Don’t allow your emotions to cloud your parenting. Encouraging good, co-operative behaviour from children far outweighs punishment, frightening tactics or threats.

If you are concerned about the welfare of a child, call the CPA hotline on 227 0979 or write to us at childcaregy@ gmail.com A MESSAGE FROM THE CHILDCARE AND PROTECTION AGENCY, MINISTRY OF HUMAN SERVICES AND SOCIAL SECURITY

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Digital technologies: key accelerator of agrifood systems transformation and rural development

DIGITAL agriculture has great potential to foster the transformation of agrifood systems and promote rural development, QU Dongyu, Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), emphasised at a recent high-level international conference.

The conference, ‘Vision for the future: transition to digital agriculture’, was held in Azerbaijan.

“Data, digitalisation and innovation are key accelerators to achieve this transformation and are the core of FAO’s actions across all our areas of work, in line with our mandate,” the Director-General said in the opening of the event.

FAO is supporting several countries to develop national digital agriculture strategies, which Qu described as “the first step to ensure delivery of meaningful services and data to people in rural areas, and to promote bottom-up technology-driven innovations.”

The conference was convened by the Government of Azerbaijan with FAO’s support. Azerbaijan has been a leader in this field, having introduced ambitious Electronic Agricultural Information System (EKTIS), which allows the government to support the agricultural sector in a more transparent, targetted and swift manner.

“Azerbaijan is in the process of transforming the country’s agriculture to modern and digital agricul-

Participants in the Vision for the Future conference in Baku (FAO photo) ture,” said Inam Karimov, Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, in his opening remarks.

A host of ministers are participating in the forum designed to share global experiences, visions and developments in the area of agricultural and digital transformation, present the Azerbaijani e-agriculture model and seek to identify sustainable and inclusive pathways to accelerate the digital transformation of agrifood systems.

“Developing human capital is essential to unleash the potential of digital agriculture,” Qu said, pointing to FAO virtual learning centres and targetted digital literacy initiatives to strengthen the capacity of farmers and other actors to respond to the challenges. FAO has also helped members develop e-governance tools such as identification systems for animal health and farm accountancy data networks,

he added. FAO’s International Platform for Digital Food and Agriculture will soon be fully operational, he noted. Other FAO initiatives include provision of digital public goods such as the Hand-in-Hand Geospatial Platform, the ongoing 1000 Digital Villages Initiative, the e-Agriculture Strategy Guide and other contributions to the UN Secretary-General’s Roadmap for Digital Cooperation.

“The challenges our agrifood systems face require our collective, efficient, effective and coherent action and response – we must do more, together,” said the Director-General, who will also make field visits in Azerbaijan during his official visit.

MINISTERIAL ROUNDTABLE “In rural areas, digital technologies can be leveraged to address multiple

market failures and facilitate smallholder farmers’ integration into markets,” Qu said in remarks at the Ministerial Roundtable that took place after the opening session.

FAO’s aim, he added, is to “massify” digital benefits to ensure no one is left behind, doing so through promoting the use and adoption of digital technologies and promoting a policy agenda and public investments. “The acceleration of digitalisation in agriculture must also safeguard basic human rights by ensuring

affordable access to digital technologies, digital literacy and digital public goods for everyone.”

Convened by Minister Karimov, participants included the Deputy Prime Ministers of Kyrgyzstan and Poland, Ministers from Georgia, Moldova and Tajikistan, as well as the heads of the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the FAO/IAEA Center on Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture.

“Digital innovation can

unlock employment opportunities, bridge the rural divide and empower youth and women” and can support evidence-based policy, planning and implementation to improve efficiency and reduce negative environmental impacts, FAO’s Director-General told them.

“FAO is committed to leveraging the potential of digital technologies to achieve the Four Betters: better production, better nutrition, a better environment and a better life for all, leaving no one behind,” he added. (FAO)

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Mental Health Awareness Month: What we can do?

By Vanessa Cort

IN recent years, celebrities and popular sports personalities have been letting the world know of their mental health challenges. Some have even withdrawn from competitions and from the limelight to deal with their

mental wellness.

The message to anyone suffering from similar problems has been, ‘You are not alone. It can happen to anyone.’ In addition, these famous voices have been helping to lift the veil of silence surrounding the issue of mental health.

For too long there has been such a heavy taboo and stigma attached to mental illness that sufferers have felt compelled to either ignore, deny or refuse to discuss their problems.

Families, too, have been guilty of attempting to cover up the mental health issues of family members, for fear

of embarrassment or even ridicule. The result has been that sufferers do not get the medical attention they deserve, causing a worsening of their condition.

Society as a whole must also bear some of the responsibility for this state of affairs because of our collective mis-

handling of mental illness and those who experience it.

As we celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month under the theme, “Back to Basics,” taking a look at life after two years of living with COVID-19, we are being urged to expand our knowledge and understanding of

house.’

We often ignore the signs of individuals’ mental deterioration and therefore fail to help by getting them the treatment they need at the early stages of their illness, paying no heed to the tenet that you must ‘nip in the bud’ something of this nature before it

Photo courtesy of Texila American University mental health. And the Mental Health Foundation has announced ‘Loneliness’ as its theme, paying particular attention to the isolation many felt during the pandemic.

I have no doubt that this ‘month’ is also meant to force the public at large to acknowledge and give credence to the very real nature of mental health illness, particularly when statistics tell us that one in five persons, globally, is affected. As such, this is a matter we can no longer continue to disparage or to ignore to the point where persons have to actually begin to show signs of insanity before we show concern.

Just as we routinely pay attention to our physical well-being, we must be cognisant of and equally concerned about our mental health. For while members of the medical profession recognise the ever-widening spectre of mental illness, society still is loathe to come to terms with its very existence.

We in this country, who also fall into the global statistics, are still guilty of ‘turning a blind eye’ to mental illness until it reaches the point of what we call ‘madness,’ when we become dismissive, feeling that the condition is untreatable and the person should be shunted off to the ‘mad

gets worse.

There are many early warning signs of mental health problems and experts give some of these as: eating or sleeping too much or too little; pulling away from people and usual activities; having low or no energy; feeling helpless or hopeless or like nothing matters; smoking, drinking or using drugs excessively; and experiencing severe mood swings that cause problems in relationships.

And the definition of mental health is given as inclusive of “our emotional, psychological and social well-being,” which affects, “how we think, feel and act” and also helps determine “how we handle stress, relate to others and make choices.”

Among the many suggestions to be found for improving mental and emotional health are tips such as making face-to-face connection a priority (particularly in this age of growing social media usage) staying active, eating ‘brain-healthy’ foods to support strong mental health and not skimping on sleep.

So during this Mental Health Awareness Month, I urge everyone to pay attention to their mental wellness and to be attentive to those around them who may show signs of being unwell.

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Systems being put in place to mitigate flooding in Region Six

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 9, 2022

- says Agri.

Minister AS the country prepares for the usual May/June rains, Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, has noted that government, through the ministry’s National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), is working to mitigate flooding across the Corentyne Coast in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

According to a press release, Minister Mustapha informed residents that, based on data gathered by the Hydromet Department, this year’s rainy period will have conditions similar to the May 2021 floods, which devastated some 52,000 households within 300 communities, as well as thousands of acres of farmlands across the country.

The minister made these disclosures on Saturday during an outreach to several communities in the Port Mourant area.

He told the residents that the ministry has been working with the various regional bodies to put systems in place to avoid a reoccurrence of what took place last year.

“Right now, we are experiencing a very high intensity of rainfall. I’ve received reports that the internal drains are clogged up.

Even if we clear the main canals, if the internal drains are clogged up the water will not drain. I will ask our engineers to organise and send a small team back to the area to look at the drainage issues. I will also assign a small machine to clean all the drains as soon as [I receive] the recommen-

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, listens to a concern being raised by a resident during one of Saturday’s community meetings (Ministry of Agriculture photo)

dations from the engineers,” the minister said according to the press release.

Residents also raised issues about the ongoing flood-relief programme and told the minister that many persons are still awaiting assistance.

Minister Mustapha told the residents that many persons from the region are still on the list to receive assistance and that his ministry was working with the Ministry of Finance to complete the distribution of funds soon.

While acknowledging that there were issues with the distribution process, Minister Mustapha said that action has been taken against persons who were found guilty of colluding with residents to defraud the government. He also assured residents that, once they had suffered losses, they will receive assistance from the government.

Meanwhile, Minster Mustapha stated that even as the Ministry continues to work to provide relief to the residents, the government is committed to ensuring that the local

Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) continue to play a part in improved drainage and irrigation activities to complement the ministry’s initiatives.

Minister Mustapha’s comments came as calls were made by several residents for the greater involvement of the NDCs. The press release said that he noted government’s commitment to assist in this regard since many of these bodies do not have the resources to function given that many persons have not been paying their rates and taxes. However, the minister maintained that this should not stop the NDC from performing its functions, adding that the Central Government will assist with works in the communities.

“We know that revenue collection remains an issue for the NDCs but that doesn’t mean that Central Government wouldn’t act.

We will try as much as possible to assist with community issues,” the agriculture minister stated according to the press release.

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Efforts underway to Improve drug storage in Region Three

guyana CHRONICLE monday, may 9, 2022

Officials from Region Three at the PAC meeting IMPROVEMENTS are currently being made to the system in place for the storage of drugs and medical supplies in Region Three.

This was revealed during the May 4 sitting of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) when the 2017 and 2018 Auditor General’s reports for the region were being examined.

It was noted that for the year 2017, drugs for public consumption were stored in a cupboard which was reportedly congested and which had no labels, among other things.

Government member of the PAC, Dr Vishwar Mahadeo, highlighted the section of the report which spoke to storage at the Versailles Health Centre and revealed that the drugs were stored in a room with no air conditioning. As such, he questioned what actions were taken to remedy that issue.

In response, current Regional Health Officer (RHO), Dr Erica Forte, stated that the Versailles Health Centre has undergone extension and proper ventilation in the extended area was given attention.

The RHO revealed that they have also done procurement to ensure that all centres that require air conditioning receive same.

She said: “We are in the process of ensuring that those centres have adequate air conditioning and we would have [sic] already done a regional assessment of all our health centres to try to improve storage for drugs and medical supplies.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 9, 2022

Diaspora social media platform launched - to promote development in Guyana; ‘I have to be a Just Leader,’ says President in inaugural programme

By Vishnu Bishram A NEW social media platform in the diaspora debut last Thursday evening to promote development in Guyana. It’s first guest, President Dr Irfaan Ali, was quizzed on a number of issues.

A very passionate Ali stated categorically: “I have to be a just leader” during a discussion on the social media platform organised by the Guyana Diaspora Coordinating Council (GDCC).

It was a historic occasion as it was on that day, in 1838, that the first batch of East Indian indentured labourers landed in Guyana (then British Guiana) to work on sugar plantations.

The President acknowledged the significant contributions of Indians to the development of Guyana.

The social media programme began at 19:00 hrs and concluded at 20:00 hrs.

It was an interactive show that was broadcast on several social media platforms, Facebook and YouTube.

The host of the programme was Shameeza Ally. The moderator was former UG senior lecturer, Dr. Tara Singh. Also appearing was prominent businessman, Dave Narine of Dave West Indian Products. Narine supports the programme which seeks to inform Guyanese at home and in the diaspora, as well as non-Guyanese, on developments in Guyana. The programme is being broadcast weekly on Thursdays from 19:00 hrs to 20:00 hrs. The GDCC (comprising representatives from the UK, Canada, USA, the Caribbean and Guyana) is an independently-owned and operated outfit.

This new programme was launched to discuss the country’s developmental thrust and related issues facing Guyana as well as address (correct any) misinformation/distortion/falsehoods being pedalled in the public domain, in addition to promoting investment and tourism. As far as practicable, programmes would be grounded in facts and credible evidence.

The organisers believe that it is important Guyanese at home and in the diaspora promote development in their country of origin. The platform aims to engage top public officials, scholars, community leaders and other guests in interviews relating to the country’s development thrust (including setbacks).

The public will not want to miss these informative and fact-based programmes.

The President expressed his excitement about the programme, thanking the organisers for giving him an opportunity to address issues raised by members of the diaspora as well as Guyanese at home. The President spent considerable amount of time discussing the concept of ‘One Guyana’. It’s a work in progress, an evolutionary process. The President was very emotional as he talked about the blatant attempt to destroy democracy and to rig the 2020 elections as well as discrimination faced

by Guyanese during the preceding regime (20152020). Based on feedback, viewers lauded the refreshing views of the President on the ‘One Guyana’ concept which he brilliantly articulated and citing specific examples.

The President expressed his disappointment in calls for greater inclusivity when this already is provided for in the existing constitutional arrangements. He mentioned, for example, the several Rights Commission and the Parliamentary Sectoral Committees. The major challenge is for politicians to comply with existing constitutional requirements and the rule of law. It is not necessarily a case of changing the legal system but to reform people’s attitudes.

What is important also is that the President promised to answer questions based on feedback and send these to the platform for publicity.

When asked about a Commission of Inquiry into the 2020 elections saga, he said that a decision has not yet been made but he did not

rule this out. Dr Singh mentioned about the need to restore the national honours while Dave Narine spoke of sports as a major unifying force and as being consistent with the ‘One Guyana’ concept. Dave also suggested greater funding to sports to which the President concurred.

Former Chair of Economics and Business Department, Lincoln University, Pennsylvania, Dr Ganga Ramdas congratulated Dr Tara and others for a great inaugural session. “The President answers were excellent.

He spoke with passion and conviction.”

Professor Emeritus (University of Arizona-Civil Engineering), Dr Muniram Budhu echoed similar sentiments.

“The President provided excellent answers.

He spoke with passion and conviction. Guyanese should be proud that their President is articulate and is leading the charge to make a better Guyana.”

GDCC’s next programme is on Thursday’s (May 12th) and it would feature VicePresident, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo.

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Du Plesis, Karthik and Patindar propel RCB to win (ESPNCRICINFO) Virat Kohli bagged his third golden duck this IPL, but strong hands from Faf du Plessis, Rajat Patidar and Dinesh Karthik propelled Royal Challengers Bangalore to 192 for 3. In reply, Sunrisers Hyderabad lost both their openers, Kane Williamson and Abhishek Sharma, for duck, and eventually careened to their fourth successive defeat after having won five in a row.

It was Patidar, promoted to No. 3, who began the repair job before du Plessis cranked up the tempo during their 105-run partnership off 73 balls.

Karthik then shellacked 30 off a mere eight balls, including a sequence of 6, 6, 6, 4 off the last four balls, to give the innings a rousing finish.

The momentum seamlessly shifted towards Royal Challengers in the middle and end overs, as a depleted Sunrisers attack, which was missing T Natarajan and Washington Sundar, was left scrambling for an extra option.

Umran Malik bowled only two overs for 25, with Abhishek pitching in for the other two.

Rahul Tripathi battled with a 37-ball 58, but the regular fall of wickets at the other end, and the rapidly rising asking rate was too much to overcome.

Legspinner Wanindu Hasaranga benefited from that scoreboard pressure, and came away with 5 for 18 to seal a net-run-rate, boosting victory for Royal Challengers.

Wanindu Hasaranga struck with his second ball when he sent back Aiden Markram (BCCI) PATIDAR, DU PLESSIS STEP UP The first ball of the match, from J Suchith, was just short of a leg-stump half-volley, and Kohli simply chipped it into the hands of Williamson at short midwicket. Just like that, Williamson snuck in a two-run first over from the left-arm finger-spinner.

Royal Challengers’ response was to bump up Patidar. After quietly knocking the ball into the gaps, he made everyone sit up and take notice when he swatted a Bhuvneshwar Kumar leg-cutter off the front foot over wide longon for six in the fourth over. Patidar was responsible for 23 of the 47 runs Royal Challengers put together in the powerplay.

Malik has been Sunrisers’ enforcer in the middle overs, but du Plessis tucked into him in his first over, hitting him for two fours and six off successive deliveries. The second four could’ve, instead, been a wicket, had Tripathi held on to a fairly tough chance at midwicket. du Plessis also took a liking to the extra pace of

Kartik Tyagi, and raised a 34-ball half-century after being on 9 off 13 balls at one stage. The first two overs of Mailk and Tyagi produced a combined 37 runs. Patidar fell two short of his fifty when he dragged Suchith straight to deep midwicket.

MAXWELL, KARTHIK PLAY Glenn Maxwell announced himself with a switch-hit six second ball off Suchith, and then belted Malik through the covers for four. When Bhuvneshwar marginally missed his yorker, Maxwell got underneath the length and walloped him for six. When Tyagi put one on a similar length, Maxwell swung for the hills, but this time he picked out Aiden Markram in the outfield.

Karthik came to the crease in the 19th over, and the options Sunrisers had for the last over were Malik and Fazalhaq Farooqi, the Afghanistan left-arm seamer who was playing his first IPL game.

Wi l l i a m s o n s i d e d with Farooqi, but, under pressure, he ditched the slower balls for the

on-pace deliveries, which were right up Karthik’s alley. Farooqi could’ve cut short Karthik’s knock at 8, had Tripathi held on to a more straightforward chance at deep midwicket. However, Tripathi let the ball burst through his hands and land on the boundary cushions.

Karthik pounded two more sixes and a four on the next three balls to ensure Royal Challengers got an abovepar total.

THE START Sunrisers had a terrible start to their chase, losing both Wi l l i a m s o n a n d Abhishek for duck.

While Williamson was run out without facing a ball, Abhishek was castled by a slider from Maxwell. The double blow left Sunrisers at 1 for 2 in the first over. Markram struggled to 17 off 19 balls in the powerplay, which brought 39 for Sunrisers overall.

THE ENDGAME Tripathi showed his range by helping Josh Hazlewood over short fine leg for four, scoop-sweeping Shahbaz Ahmed for another four in the same region, and launching Mohammed Siraj over extra-cover for six.

However, Hasaranga picked off one batter after another at the other end to offset Tripathi’s blows.

When Tripathi fell to Hazlewood in the 16th over, Sunrisers needed 79 off 26 balls. They were bundled out for 125 with four balls unused in their innings.

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Conway continues purple patch as CSK complete win (ESPNCRICINFO) Devon Conway continued his purple patch with a third fifty-plus score, and Moeen Ali took three wickets in a miserly spell to help Chennai Super Kings complete a 91-run demolition job over Delhi Capitals. With Capitals trying to stay in contention of a top-four finish, RIshabh Pant’s side conceded 208 runs in the first innings, after which they lost their last eight wickets for only 45 runs in the chase.

For Capitals, it was the seven single-digit scores that hurt their chase. A tar-

get of 209 was always going to be steep, but it proved even more difficult in the absence of Prithvi Shaw, and a premature end to David Warner’s innings. Every Super Kings bowler enjoyed success on the night, with two fours for uncapped seamers Mukesh Choudhary, Simarjeet Singh, and all-rounder Dwayne Bravo, and a 1 for 29 for mystery spinner Maheesh Theekshana.

Super Kings’ win took them out of the bottom two for the first time in over a month, and keeps them alive for playoff contention, even though their road to the final

four remains dependent on a huge slice of luck. Capitals are now in danger of slipping from fifth to seventh over the next few days, with Punjab Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad both on 10 points after 11 games.

THE COLLAPSE The Capitals chase offered promise early on, despite the dismissal of KS Bharat, playing instead of Shaw as opener, as he fell to the slip cordon trying to pull Simarjeet. Warner was then out lbw to Theekshana, even though he was convinced he got some bat en route to the pad, but then Mitchell Marsh and Pant looked to

Devon Conway (BCCI)

rebuild. Between the two, the seven fours and the lone six kept Capitals in contention of the net run-rate as they moved into the seventies by the eighth over.

But then came the fall.

Moeen tempted Marsh to slog to a wide-ish ball, only to get caught on 25. The offspinner then returned next over to pick off Pant with a chopped-on bowled dismissal, and soon picked up Ripal Patel. A recovery from 81 for 5 was still possible, but a double-wicket over from the other end in the next over made the result a formality. Choudhary picked off Axar Patel and Rovman Powell in the space of five balls in the 11th over, and at 85 for 7, the target for Capitals was to finish respectably, helped, in part, by Shardul Thakur’s 24. However, all they could reach was 117 before Bravo picked up wickets nine and ten off back-to-back deliveries in the 18th over.

MOEEN’S DAY OUT After the game, Moeen said that his primary job as offspinner is to spin the ball, and on Sunday’s used wicket, he found that.

It helped Moeen that he picked up Marsh’s wicket, three balls into his spell, and used that momentum to remain on top of the batters.

Moeen enjoyed a bit of luck with Pant’s dismissal onto his stumps, but earned Ripal’s wicket by ensuring he did not go full, after being hit for a six. Instead, his flatter, length ball left the batter trying for a big leg-

side swipe, even though the ball was not in his arc.

Moeen also enjoyed the advantage of the pressure being applied by the bowler from the other end, as his third over came following the two Choudhary wickets.

That allowed him to eke out five dots against Kuldeep Yadav, who was still trying to find his feet in the crease, and finished his spell of 3 for 13 with 16 dot balls.

CONWAY SHINES (AGAIN) The left-hander from New Zealand is scoring fifties for fun now, his hattrick of fifties corresponding to big Super Kings totals, too. Quite early on, Conway made it clear in fellow opener Ruturaj Gaikwad’s company that he preferred spin inside the powerplay, and when it was offered to the batters

by Pant, Gaikwad rotated the strike often enough to let Conway face the slow bowlers.

That proved to be brutal, as Axar was welcomed inside the powerplay with two sixes over his head by the charging Conway, and when Kuldeep came on for the first time in the eighth over, the batter lofted him for six, swept him for another six, and drove him for four. The two big overs helped Conway race away to a 28-ball fifty, following up from scores of 56 and 85 not out in his last two outings.

Pant continued to trust Kuldeep after an 18-run opening over, and when Conway faced him again,

the batter hit him for a hat-trick of fours through the covers. By the time the partnership broke, with Gaikwad falling for 41 to an Anrich Nortje short ball, Super Kings were 110 for 1 after 11 overs.

Dube, returning to the side following Ravindra Jadeja’s absence from the XI due to injury, entered at No. 3, and chose to be the one taking the risky batting options as Conway entered his 80s. And he did by hammering Shardul for 6, 6 and 4 in the space of four balls to end the 16th over.

But Conway’s prolonged period at the non-striker’s, starved of strike, did have some impact. When he got back on strike on 87 in the 17th over, he failed to get the desired connection off a ramp, and fell 13 short of what could’ve been high first IPL century. Nonetheless, he finished on his highest tournament score.

At the point of his dismissal, Super Kings were going at over 10 runs per over, and the remaining batters ensured they didn’t let the momentum die after the set batters’ dismissal. MS Dhoni walked in and got off the mark with a six and four, Ambati Rayudu and Moeen swung the bat around for useful boundaries, and despite a tidy nine-run 20th over from Nortje, that also included two wickets, Super Kings could not be stopped from posting their fourth 200plus total.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 9, 2022

Verstappen wins inaugural Miami Grand Prix (FORMULA 1) - Max Verstappen won the first ever Miami Grand Prix, having pried the lead off Ferrari’s pole-sitter Charles Leclerc early in the race, and defended it in an enthralling laterace battle.

Red Bull’s reigning champion took P2 off Carlos Sainz into Turn 1 at the start, and soon began to close in on Leclerc. The Ferrari driver lost the lead to his rival on the main straight at the start of Lap 9 of 57, and pitted from mediums to hards on Lap 24, causing Verstappen to react with his stop two laps later. It seemed that Verstappen would cruise to victory in front of Miami Gardens’ marina.

That was until the Lap 41 caution, a VSCturned-Safety Car triggered by a clash between Pierre Gasly and Lando Norris, which sent the McLaren driver into a spin as his right rear tyre ripped off. Perez took the opportunity to pit for new mediums from P4, emerging there with hardshod Verstappen, Leclerc and Sainz ahead.

The Lap 47 restart saw Verstappen lead away, but struggle to build up a gap to Leclerc. It was equally difficult for Sainz, who was being hounded by medium-shod Sergio Perez for the final podium place.

Perez attempted to pass Sainz on Lap 52, but locked up, both drivers avoiding contact, while Leclerc was under halfa-second behind Verstappen in the chase for the lead. But neither Perez nor Leclerc could make headway, and the win, narrow as it was over the Ferraris, would be Verstappen’s.

Rounding out the top five was George Russell, who started 11th and pitted during the VSC, using the benefit of newer tyres to pass teammate Lewis Hamilton on Lap 54. Hamilton lamented the fact that he couldn’t pit during the VSC, but was promoted to P6 when Valtteri Bottas went wide at Turn 17 on Lap 49.

The Alfa Romeo driver seemed destined for P5, having started there, but his late mistake left

him seventh. The Alpines were next, Esteban Ocon finishing eighth from Fernando Alonso in ninth, the latter having been penalised by five seconds for contact with Gasly.

Alonso was given a further five-second penalty for leaving the track and gaining an advantage on the penultimate lap, promoting Alex Albon to P9, Lance Stroll to P10, and demoting the twotime champion to 11th .

Kevin Magnussen retired late on after contact with Lance Stroll (P10 after having started in the pits), as did Sebastian Vettel, who started in the pits, and was tapped out of the race by Mick Schumacher (P15).

Gasly did not finish after his contact with Norris (DNF), while Zhou Guanyu was the first retiree, having been pulled into the pits on Lap 7.

Despite starting on the front row, Ferrari couldn’t convert their advantage to a Miami Grand Prix win, while Max Verstappen has now made it two wins in a row.

Race winner Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing, Second-placed Charles Leclerc of Monaco and Ferrari, and Third-placed Carlos Sainz of Spain and Ferrari celebrate on the podium during the F1 Grand Prix of Miami at the Miami International Autodrome on May 08, 2022 in Miami, Florida (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

22

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 9, 2022

Mathura is lone new face on CCUA executive committee TERRY Mathura is the lone new face in the Canada Cricket Umpires Association (CCUA).

The death of stalwart cricket administrator Jainauth “Vish” Jadunauth meant there was a change in the executive committee, and that change was made during the Annual General Meeting (AGM) last Saturday.

Jadunuath, who was the long-serving Treasurer of the CCUA, died in February after a brief illness.

The AGM took place at the at the Number 43 Police Division Community Room, Scarborough, Ontario, Canada, where Mathura was elected, unopposed, following his acting appointment shortly after his predecessor passed away.

Mathura has also been a cricket administrator for some time, having served as Vice-President of the Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL) up until 2019, and

has returned this year as the Assistant Secretary/Treasurer.

Based on the CCUA’s Constitution, only three places were up for grabs, that of President, Secretary, and Treasurer, with popular Guyana-born businessman Albert Ramcharran, and Secretary Azad Khan being retained in their posts of President and Secretary respectively.

Vice-President Bisham Singh, Assistant Secretary/ Treasurer/PRO Frederick Halley, and Certification Officer Matthew Francis continue to serve in their respective posts, which were not up for election this year.

The CCUA is gearing up for the 2022 cricket season, which gets underway on Saturday, May 14. The body held four weeks of intense training, which was conducted by Certification Officer Matthews and Secretary Khan.

Ramcharran, in his pres-

Standing (from left) are ACCUA Executives: Matthew Francis, Terry Mathura and Frederick Halley, while seated from left are: Azad Khan, Albert Ramcharran and Bisham Singh idential report, pointed out that the COVID-19 pandemic had an adverse affect on the 2021 season, but, nevertheless, there were no incidents involving any umpires from the CCUA.

Umpire Malik Ghaswala (right) collects his Levels One and Two certificates from CCUA President Albert Ramcharran

While the 2021 season was delayed until July instead of the usual May start, the Association used the time to ensure that its umpires were fully prepared, with WICUA Committee Training

Chairman Peter Nero and Secretary Vivian Johnson conducting a seven-week seminar, via Zoom.

The president also paid tribute to the late Jadunauth, pointing out that he was an

outstanding and dedicated treasurer who served with distinction, and will be surely missed. Members observed a minute of silence at the commencement of the meeting.

Apart from serving as treasurer, Jadunauth was also a WICUA-qualified umpire who officiated in Scarborough Cricket (SCA) matches, and was also Junior Coordinator with Cricket Ontario.

The Association also took the opportunity to distribute certificates to umpires who have been successful at examinations over the past two years.

The CCUA is affiliated to the West Indies Cricket Umpires Association (WICUA), which also includes members from Barbados, Bermuda, the Cayman Islands, Guyana, Jamaica, Leeward Islands, Trinidad & Tobago, the United States, and Windward Islands. (Frederick Halley)

GCB Harpy Eagles practice match set for today at Providence THE Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) practice match, expected to be a warm-up for the National Senior Men’s team, the Harpy Eagles, begins today at the Providence National Stadium.

The four-day encounter is the last bit of match simulation for the team before they wing out to compete in the last three rounds of the Cricket West Indies West Indies Championship Tournament from May 18 in Trinidad and Tobago.

The match begins at 09:30hrs.

Chairman of the senior national selectors, Ravin-

dranauth Seeram and his panelist, Albert Clement (Smith), Peter Persaud and Elroy Stephney called up the following players to participate in the match from Monday.

Johnson’s X1: Leon Johnson (Cap’t), Chandrapaul Hemraj, Vishaul Singh, Tevin Imlack, Akshaya Persaud, Anthony Bramble, Keemo Paul, Junior Sinclair, Demeter Cameron, Antony Adams, Clinton Pestano, Richie Looknauth, Joshua Jones, and Cylus Tyndall.

Chanderpaul X1: Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Trevon Griffith, Matthew Nandu, Kevlon Anderson, Mavin-

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Monday May 09, 2022)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD- 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 152 – 3 rd wicket (M. Vijay & J.A. Morkel – CSK vs RR) (2) Adam Gilchrist- 13 dismissals (9 catches/4 stumpings – Deccan Chargers) Today’s Quiz: (1) Which edition of the IPL was held in South Africa?

(2) When was a season’s IPL held entirely in the United Arab Emirates?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue ……………………………………………

dra Dindyal, Kevin Sinclair, Gudakesh Motie, Nial Smith, Ronsford Beaton, Kemol Savory, Sachin Singh, Steven Sankar, Keon Joseph, and Shamar Joseph.

The last encounter between Johnson X1 and Keemo Paul X was abandoned.

That match started last Monday at the Everest Cricket Club ground, Eve Leary, with the latter team winning the toss, and electing to take first strike, but only managing 177/10.

In response, Johnson X1 had compiled a score of 13/3, trailing by 164 runs, when the rain disrupted play.

The 2019-20 edition of the West Indies Championship had to be aborted after eight of the ten-round fixture, when it became apparent that it would not be possible to complete the season.

Barbados, then in the lead, was crowned champions.

As the COVID-19 pandemic raged, administrators deemed the 2020-21 tournament logistically impossible.

In the 2022 edition, Guyana played in the Twin- Island Republic against Windwards and Leewards, respectively, in the first two rounds.

The Guyana Harpy Eagles final practice match begins at 09:30hrs today After winning five consecutive titles, Guyana lost championship honours to

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23

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 9, 2022

St. Cuthbert’s/Pakuri Warriors to debut in East Bank FA Senior League FIERCE clashes will be the order of the day when the East Bank Football Association (EBFA) kicks off its 2022 Senior League on May 15. While no venue has been confirmed, President (ag) Orien Angoy has expressed joy that they are finally able to get back into competition following a twoyear hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Representatives from the 11 participating clubs converged at the GFF National Training Centre at Providence last Saturday to be briefed on plans, as well as receive the equipment donated by the National Federation for clubs contesting the nine Regional Associations League, which will all kick off on Sunday across Guyana.

Present were Agricola Red Triangle, Diamond United, Friendship, Grove Hi-Tech, Herstelling Raiders, Kuru Kururu Warriors, Samatta Point Kaneville, Soesdyke Falcons, Timehri Panthers, Swan, and St. Cuthbert’s/Pakuri Warriors.

A Technical Meeting of all the Clubs will be held, via Zoom, on Tuesday evening.

EBFA Executive Members, along with Club ‘Reps’ following their Senior League launch last Saturday

Rupununi FA unveils Senior League - 26 clubs to do battle

NOT to be outdone, the Executive and General Council of the Rupununi Football Association (RFA) one of the nine Regional Associations affiliated to the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), on Saturday last, unveiled its plans for this shortened Senior League season.

RFA President, Norbert Williams, disclosed that they are super excited to be part and parcel of rolling out their senior championship, along with the other RAs on May 15th, which will be a historical day for the sport and the game.

“We here in the RFA, like our colleague Associations, are very pleased and excited to be a part of this monumental initiative by the GFF which has been working with us to take the development of the game to higher levels. It’s going to

North clubs launch at Annai be very challenging for us as you know that this Association is very vast, but we are up to the challenge and, together, we will make this happen, and successfully so.”

President Williams also disclosed that, given the expansive layout of GFF’s largest RA, it did launches in various areas. Clubs in the

North held theirs at Annai; Aishalton was the venue for clubs in Deep South.

East Central clubs held theirs in the village of Nappi with Central Lethem hosting the RFA launch.

A total of twenty-six (26) clubs, drawn from six (6) districts, will be battling for the right to be called champions

of the RFA. Following are the competing clubs: North – Surama, Challengers, Paiwomak Warriors, F.C Basin, Falcons, Spartans, Strikers.

East Central Rupununi – Flash, Galaxy Warriors, Kanuku Harpies, Kanuku Warriors, Hiawa Undertakers,

Moco Moco, Terminators.

Central – Far East United, Gladiators, Tabatinga, Snatchers, Guyana Rush Saints, Rising Stars.

Deep South – Titans United, Snipers.

South Central – Potarinau Sky Kings, Shirriri.

South Pakaraimas – Seven K, United

The League will commence on Sunday at the Tabatinga Sports Complex in Lethem, Central Rupununi, and conclude on August 13, 2022, at Aranaputa Sports Ground in the North Rupununi.

Each of the registered clubs was presented with equipment from the GFF.

GCB Harpy Eagles practice match set for today at Providence

24

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 9, 2022

SEE PAGE

22

The Guyana Harpy Eagles final practice match begins at 09:30hrs today

Conway continues purple Rupununi FA unveils Senior League patch as CSK complete win

SEE PAGE

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Devon Conway (BCCI)

SEE PAGE

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- 26 clubs to do battle

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

MONDAY, MAY 9, 2022