Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_13_02_2022.

13th February, 2022

Free Inside No.106633

Investor to develop US$3M 03 local fuel-bunkering operation PAGE

Final touches are being put to the roundabout of the alternative four-lane highway from Eccles, East Bank Demerara, to Mandela Avenue in Georgetown (Office of the President photo)

New $2,000 banknote tells a story of prosperity, sustainability –– Pres. Ali 02 PAGE

A dream come true! PAGE

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Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal with Indranie Lallchandra, who is among 11 persons to receive keys to their brand-new houses at Cummings Lodge (Ministry of Housing photo)

Rigorous, transparent 13 process employed for new Demerara Harbour Bridge PAGE

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 13, 2022

New $2,000 banknote tells a story of prosperity, sustainability —President Ali

PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali says that the new polymer $2,000 banknote that will soon start circulating in Guyana tells a story of Guyana’s prosperous, dynamic and sustainable

future. He made the remark while examining two encased notes that were presented to him on Saturday at State House by the Governor of the Bank of Guyana, Dr Gobind

Ganga. The note commemorates the country’s 55th Independence Anniversary and depicts Guyanese culture, art and symbols, natural resources and flora and fauna. “The new note is really a presentation of Guyana—the Guyana we want to build and

the future of our country. It is not just part of our currency system, it has a story behind it, and that story is about bringing prosperity, creating a platform through which all Guyanese, our children, can inherit a future that is dynamic, a future that is prosperous, and a future that

The new polymer $2,000 banknote is sustainable.” The President emphasised that, the note is not only about oil and gas, but represents the country’s heritage, including Guyana’s first people—the Amerindians, its children and the ‘One Guyana’ that all of us must build together. “It also incorporates features that we are strong in— that is our environmental credentials, so that we, even in our notes, are now taking the environment into consideration.” The front of the note, which is ornately decorated, features the map of Guyana, the Bank of Guyana’s logo, Guyana’s national animal— the Jaguar and the label of “Guyana’s 55th Independence Anniversary -- One Guyana”. Dr Ganga described the background of the note as a stunning gradient, moving from deep shades of red to gold and to a very distinctive green. “A closer look reveals that this is actually some of the colours of our flag – the Golden Arrowhead flowing across the note,” Dr Ganga said. He added that the reverse of the note depicts the theme of national unity and includes images of Guyana’s children showcasing the country’s ethnic and gender diversity. “The images are arranged around a pictogram of ‘One Guyana’, which is evoking

the unity of our people and being reinforced with our National Motto of ‘One People, One Nation, One Destiny’. A traditional pattern of our indigenous (Amerindian) people is also featured on the reverse of the note.” Dr Ganga pointed out that the new banknote is the first polymer note to be introduced in Guyana and also the first to depict the country’s new-found oil resource, which is represented by a barrel beside the map of Guyana. He added that the banknote has enhanced features that make it cleaner, more durable, more environmentally friendly and less likely to be counterfeited. The banknotes will also have a longer life and will be able to be recycled, which leaves a lower carbon footprint. President Ali also took the opportunity to laud the Bank of Guyana’s performance in maintaining macroeconomic stability. “If you look at the performance of the Bank of Guyana in terms of their instruments, and in terms of the stability the management of the monetary side brought to our country—ensuring macroeconomic stability—we must be proud of what the Central Bank has been accomplishing.” (Office of the President press release)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 13, 2022

Investor to develop US$3M local fuel-bunkering operation

By Navendra Seoraj

COGNISANT of the ongoing developments in Guyana’s oil and gas sector, a supplier of petroleumbased products and services, Trillium Energy Inc., plans to capitalise on the potential and existing opportunities by establishing a fuel-bunkering operation at Friendship, on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD). “It is the intent of Trillium Energy Inc to supply petroleum-based products and services throughout various parts of Guyana, depending on market availability. We have an interest to provide special emphasis to the industries currently operating in the interior and intracoastal areas of the country. “We see the opportunity to provide value for money in the services and products we will render in our evergrowing oil and gas sector if given the opportunity,” the company said in a project summary seen by the Sunday Chronicle. Trillium Energy Inc., through its parent company CARLAT Petroleum LLC, already has registered offices in the United States of America and Canada. And since 2003, the company has been operating and providing services throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. “Our company is offering

to provide the same quality of service and products in Guyana’s market, to operate and to provide premium services and products to the people and industries in Guyana,” the company related. In its initial stages, Trillium Energy Inc will be investing approximately US$3 million and create jobs for over 15 persons. As it is now, there is no development or construction at the Friendship side, since the company is now setting up its bunkering operations in Guyana. Bunkering is defined as the supply of fuel for use by ships, including the logistics of loading and distributing the fuel among available shipboard tanks. The plan is to have the site at Friendship fitted with the necessary infrastructure prior to the commencement of operations, in order to facilitate docking, transferring and access by the relevant authorities. “As part of the leasing agreement, Trillium Energy Inc.’s wharf facility will provide all the necessary resources that will be required for efficient services by the company,” Trillium Energy said, adding: “Once the company is granted its licences to operate in Guyana’s waters, we envision growth in employment and economic activity.” It went on to state: “We

Trillium Energy Inc.’s vessel, which will be used for the proposed fuel-bunkering operations envision that our Trillium Energy Inc. will have an immediate effect on the companies in Guyana with the usage of our service.” Considering, however, that there might be environmental impacts, the company has crafted a plan to reduce the chances of any eventuality. Broadly, its plan is to utilise technologies which are in keeping with the highest international environmental safeguards. Trillium Energy’s operations will add to the ongoing developments on and offshore Guyana. Just Friday, it was reported that Exxon-

Mobil started production at its second offshore oil development project on the Stabroek Block, Liza Phase Two, bringing the total production capacity to more than 340,000 barrels per day in only seven years since the country’s first discovery. According to a release, production at the Liza Unity Floating, Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel is expected to reach its target of 220,000 barrels of oil later this year, as operations continue to be brought safely on stream. This adds to the more than 120,000 barrels of oil

per day at the Liza Destiny FPSO, which began production in December 2019 and is now delivering at better levels than its design capacity. The Stabroek Block’s recoverable resource base is currently estimated at more than 10 billion oil-equivalent barrels. The current resource has the potential to support up to 10 projects. ExxonMobil anticipates that four FPSOs with a capacity of more than 800,000 barrels per day will be in operation on the Stabroek Block by 2025. Payara, the third project in the Stabroek Block, is

A FIRE which destroyed a Number 79 Village C o re n t y n e , B e r b i c e house on Friday, was caused by a slack connection of overhead wires which sparked and ignited window curtains. The Guyana Fire Service, in a press release, said the fire quickly spread throughout the house and completely destroyed the two storey wooden and concrete structure. The house was owned by Kulcharran Persaud who resided there with his

family of 13. According to the fire service, it received a report of the fire at Lot 56 Number 79 Village Corentyne, Berbice at 12:45 hours. “One jet working from Water Tender 87 tank supply and two jets working from an open water source using light pump 109 was used to extinguish the fire,” the GFS said in its report. The GFS refuted claims in sections of the media which suggested it

was ill-equipped to handle the fire and had to resort to using “water from the river”. “On arrival at the scene, one jet from Water Tender 87 original tank supply was employed to contain the blaze while firefighters sought an open water source. “The Corentyne River was used as the open water source and two jets connected to light pump 107 were used to extinguish the fire,” the GFS explained.

expected to produce approximately 220,000 barrels of oil per day, using the Prosperity FPSO vessel, which is currently under construction. The field-development plan and application for environmental authorisation for the Yellowtail project, the fourth project in the block, have been submitted for government and regulatory approval. Timely development of these additional projects and continued exploration success offshore, will enable the steady advancement of Guyanese capabilities and enhanced economic growth.

Slack connection of wires caused fire which left 14 homeless

The remains of the house following the fire

Prashad, who repairs fishing net for a living, said he nor the other occupants were able to save anything. He added that only last year he did some renovations to the house. In tears, the man said he has nowhere to go and no money to even rebuild. P re s e n t l y h e a n d his family are staying by a neighbor’s house. Among the homeless includes children between the ages of one to eight years.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 13, 2022

Ukraine tensions: A dozen nations tell citizens to leave Ukraine (BBC) - More than a dozen countries have urged their citizens to leave Ukraine amid warnings from Western powers that an invasion by Russia could be imminent. The US, UK and Germany are among those who told their nationals to leave. Moscow has amassed an estimated 100,000 troops along Ukraine’s border but denies any intent to invade. In a phone call, US President Joe Biden again warned Russian leader Vladimir Putin of the costs of any invasion. For his part, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said invasion warnings could stoke panic, which he called “the best friend of our enemies”. The White House has warned that an invasion could happen at any time, and could begin with bombing from the

air. Russia characterised such allegations as “provocative speculation”. Non-essential staff have been ordered to leave the US Embassy in Ukraine’s capital Kyiv, and consular services will be suspended from Sunday, although “a small consular presence” will remain in the western city of Lviv “to handle emergencies”. Canada is also moving its embassy staff to Lviv, near the border with Poland, Canadian media reported. UK ambassador to Ukraine Melinda Simmons tweeted that she and a “core team” are staying in Kyiv. Russia itself is also making changes, saying it will “optimise the staffing” of its diplomats in Ukraine, citing “possible acts of provocation

Law enforcement takes part in joint drills with the National Guard in the Kherson region of Ukraine on Saturday by the Kyiv regime or third has additional 100% reliable countries”. information about the RusThe US has also pulled sian Federation’s invasion of some 150 troops who were Ukraine... please share it with training Ukrainian soldiers us.” Many countries, includout of the country, citing an ing Australia, Italy, Israel, the abundance of caution. And Netherlands and Japan have Dutch airline KLM announced told their citizens to leave it would stop flying to Ukraine, Ukraine. Some have also evaceffective immediately, Dutch uated diplomatic staff and their media said. families. Mr Zelensky said that if Mr Biden told Mr Putin Western powers had any firm that any invasion would result evidence of an impending inva- in “swift and severe costs on sion, he had yet to see it. Russia”, White House notes “I think there is too much about the call said. information in the media about “While the United States a deep, full-scale war,” he said. remains prepared to engage “We understand all the in diplomacy... we are equally risks, we understand that they prepared for other scenarios,” exist. If you or someone else it said.

The Kremlin described the call as taking place amid “peak hysteria” from the US and its allies, and said Mr Putin had again told his counterpart that they had not addressed Russia’s security concerns. But both leaders would continue to talk, it said. French President Emmanuel Macron also spoke to Mr Putin by phone on Saturday, telling him that “a sincere dialogue was not compatible with escalation”, according to notes released by the French embassy. In Kyiv, several thousand people marched through the city on Saturday, chanting slogans pledging loyalty to Ukraine and resistance to any Russian invasion. The march was organised by a right-wing nationalist group called Gonor and anti-Zelensky far-right activist Sergiy Sternenko, but it attracted other people too. BBC reporter Eleanor Montague says the demonstration was not huge, but was the first significant manifestation of public feeling since tensions escalated, finishing at the Maidan, the city’s most famous square. Sasha Nizelska, who works as a nanny in Kyiv, told the BBC that she would resist a Russian attack with all means in her power. The sentiment was repeated by people of all age groups attending the dem-

onstration. Tensions have steadily increased as Russia has continued to deploy troops along Ukraine’s eastern border. Russian troops are also staging military exercises in Belarus to the north, while naval exercises in the Sea of Azov in the southeast have led to accusations that Russia is blocking Ukraine’s access to the sea. Meanwhile, some 7,500km (4,660 miles) away on Russia’s eastern side, the Russian defence ministry says it spotted a US Navy submarine inside its territorial waters. Officials say the US submarine was near the Kuril Islands and failed to surface when instructed. The Marshal Shaposhnikov destroyer took unspecified “appropriate” actions and the US submarine left the area, the ministry said. A US defence official has been summoned by Moscow over the incident. However, US officials later contradicted their Russian counterparts’ version of events. “There is no truth to the Russian claims of our operations in their territorial waters,” US military spokesman Captain Kyle Raines said in a statement carried by Reuters. “I will not comment on the precise location of our submarines but we do fly, sail, and operate safely in international waters.”

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 13, 2022

Rowley: T&T’s demand for prostitutes fuelling illegal migration

(Newsday) - THE Prime Minister on Friday told the Opposition to “cease and desist” its verbal attacks on the TT Coast Guard (TTCG) for last Saturday’s tragic shooting death of a one-year-old Venezuelan in a boat full of illegal migrants but to instead be more concerned about the fate of women being illegally trafficked into Trinidad for prostitution. The TTCG has claimed the migrant boat had tried to ram a craft with coast guardsmen who fired in self-defence inadvertently killing Ya Elvis Santoyo and wounding his mother Darielvis Santoyo who is now recovering in hospital in Trinidad. In the House of Representatives Naparima MP Rodney Charles asked about any diplomatic efforts to contain foreign fallout from the tragedy. Dr Rowley said TT and Venezuela had shared details, the TTCG and Venezuelan Guardia Nacional will meet in Venezuela next week, the police and TTCG were investigating and he had spoken to Venezuelan vice president Delcy Rodriguez. Charles asked if US lobbyists were helping curb the fallout? Rowley hit, “The hysteria around this matter, being driven by our colleagues and others... (He gesticulated towards the Opposition.). (It) is no different to what happens in the Mediterranean, to what happens in the Gulf of Mexico and the coast of Florida, between Bahamas and Haiti and Cuba and the United States. “Why are our people try-

ing to out a rope around the neck of the people of Trinidad and Tobago, in a matter which is purely accidental, which is minuscule as compared to what’s happening worldwide?” Gesticulating angrily, he stormed, “The main fallout from this is the Leader of the Opposition accusing the Coast Guard of murder.” Charles asked if TT should have had a stated policy on the authorities’ treatment of migrants? Rowley said such guidelines exist, but then quoted a recent article on sex-trafficking in Venezuela by an independent Latin American publication named Insight Crime. He said, “It says, with respect to the very people he (Charles) is claiming to want to defend, ‘Some stay in the south while others head to the north and central region, many to the borough of Chaguanas where the demand for prostitutes thrives.’” Unlike a decline in human-trafficking in Jamaica and Antigua and Barbuda, the PM said in TT it was growing. He quoted the report, “Demand for sex and prostitution in TT is being driven by a high rate of local consumption, especially in the borough of Chaguanas.” The PM urged the Opposition, “If you want to fight this matter (illegal migration), let us begin by fighting this (prostitution in TT).” Charles pressed for a stated policy. Rowley replied, “It is precisely because we have a comprehensive policy and physical responses against the background of that policy, why we have an effective border patrol through our

Coast Guard interacting with the problem for which the perils sometimes involve people being drowned, people being lost, people being hurt, and people being shot. “So I don’t know what policy he’s asking for, but I’m asking for a policy to reduce your appetite for the corruption that is in this document.”

Energy chamber welcomes increase in oil production offshore Guyana

THE Guyana Oil & Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC) has commended and congratulated ExxonMobil and its consortium partners for the commencement of production at its second development project in the Stabroek Block, Liza Phase Two. This, the chamber said, is in line with meeting ExxonMobil’s ramped up production targets which will be mutually beneficial for

both ExxonMobil and its consortium and Guyana. As a result, oil production will increase from 120,000 barrels per day to over 300,000 barrels per day in 2022. According to a release from ExxonMobil, production at the Liza Unity Floating, Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel is expected to reach its target of 220,000 barrels of oil later this year, as operations

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continue to be brought safely online. This adds to the more than 120,000 barrels per day of capacity at the Liza Destiny FPSO, which began production in December 2019 and is now delivering at better than design capacity. The Stabroek Block’s recoverable resource base is currently estimated at more than 10 billion oil-equivalent barrels.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 13, 2022

The Digital Society

KNOWLEDGE is power. We live in a knowledge society, one in which access to information is vital for upward mobility, both at the individual and at the societal level. In fact, developmental practitioners now speak about the digital society, one defined as a modern progressive society that is created as a result of the adoption and integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) at home, work, education and recreation and supported by advanced communications and wireless connectivity systems and solutions. Such is the pace at which the developments are taking place that there is now reference to the concept of algorithmic governance which speaks to a complex computer-based system of governance which are rules-based and which could potentially enhance the efficiency and efficacy of government services by way of rationalising bureaucratic decision-making by targeting information and interventions to precise profiles or by choosing the best available policy options. All of this may sound a bit distant and far-fetched but it cannot be ruled out as society evolves more and more into a knowledge-based and digital society. As a matter of fact, several governments are already making use of electronic forms governance in the delivery of social goods as services. The PPP/C administration has already commenced the process of providing on-line scholarships to students at the post-secondary level under the GOAL programme. Over

6,000 scholarships were awarded to persons of all ages and backgrounds from all the 10 regions of Guyana in keeping with a commitment made by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali to democratise access to tertiary education to the Guyanese people, in particular young people. Over 180 disciplines are being offered from over 15 internationally recognised universities, including the University of Guyana. And in another major development to bridge the digital divide in Guyana, the PPP/C administration has commenced the installation process of 1,000 free Internet access hubs in several regions of Guyana. Dubbed the ‘1000 Hubs Project’, the initiative, which is a collaborative effort between the Industry and the Innovation Unit at the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) and the National Data Management Authority (NDMA), will see thousands of Guyanese benefitting from free Wi-Fi. According to a release from the OPM, the hubs will be outfitted with 1,000 Internet boxes presented to the government by the Chinese multinational technology corporation, Huawei, which will go a far way in bridging the digital divide in the country. These are indeed forward-looking ideas on the part of the PPP/C administration and will benefit those Guyanese who live in rural and hinterland communities where there are hardly any service providers and, in the few cases where they could be found, the cost for Internet services are prohibitive. With the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic

which saw the disruption of classroom teaching for nearly two years, students without Internet access were at a clear disadvantage. These new ICT hubs will, therefore, ensure greater accessibility especially to disadvantaged groups and is therefore an integral component of President Ali’s vision to democratise access to quality education to all the children, regardless of social class or geographic location. Technology, it has to be said, is diffusing at an extraordinary pace and it is now possible for people in some of the remotest corners of the world to access Internet services, provided of course that the requisite IT infrastructure is in place. And this is exactly what the PPP/C administration is doing in the establishment of ICT hubs in the various parts of the country. This is indeed commendable and visionary. There is no reason why developing countries have to be left behind in terms of information and communication. We are living today in a society where one’s ability to management information is critical to social mobility. In that context, the ability to access, interpret and transmit information will be a deciding factor in terms of economic and social advancement both at the individual and national level. President Dr. Irfaan Ali has said that Guyana will continue to invest heavily in the ICT sector so that Guyana could be formally promoted on the digital stage. According to the President, ICT is an important part of Guyana’s competitive strategy that will al-

low the country to participate as an effective player on the global market. “What we are now seeing is not only greater connectivity. For the first time we have fibre going to Region Six, fibre going to Region Two fibre going to Region10. One company, the Prime Minister told me ... is planning upgrades and investment up to US$32 million. Those are the types of investment that is going to create a strong competitive environment for us to move towards a digital mode that is critical for the survival of all these businesses.” The move in the direction of e-governance is no longer an option but a national imperative. The Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) as envisaged by the PPP/C administration embraces numerous sections regarding access to information such as digitising information systems, updating the country’s access to information law, building local awareness and understanding of issues such as energy efficiency through web-based tools, developing modern e-governance systems and performing a comprehensive stocktaking of Guyana’s transparency and accountability architecture with a view to modelling information-sharing among department and agencies. Indeed, many of the access to information elements of the strategy focus on transparency and accountability measures. This includes transparency and access to the extractive and petroleum sectors and transparent management of oil revenues, among others.

GECOM must not allow any hindrance to further delay overdue local government elections Dear Editor, THE News Source February 08, 2022 edition published an article captioned: “PNC/R plans to meet with GECOM over voters’ list concerns and LGE,” which touts an anticipated meeting between the national elections authority and senior party representatives. It would be an interesting position, and tone, of any such meeting held between the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) architects.

From the outset, questions arise regarding the likelihood of a lack of objectivity by representatives of the PNC/R at the suggested requested meeting. In context, GECOM personnel must exercise much caution, given the established framework. One would recall that the newly elected Leader of the PNCR, Aubrey Norton and other party executives levelled against the current Chairperson of GECOM and the newly appointed Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Mr Vishnu Persaud. Is it a matter of PNC convenience that Norton now wants to

dialogue? They were very vocal in not recognising the Chairperson of GECOM and the duly appointed Chief Elections Officer. It is easy to recognise the follow-up of Norton’s announcement and focus on approaches to having a new voters list as a stymying tactic to the overdue Local Government Elections (LGEs). It comes as the predicted next steps to the recently prepared agenda-setting and framing press statement by the APNU+AFC Commissioners appointed to GECOM. They advocated the disbanding of the

current Register of Registrants (RoR), and even went further in suggesting that the GECOM cannot contribute to strengthening the enforceability of the Representation of the People Act (RoPA) Cap. 1:03 as the applicable legislation. This column recently pointed out that the narratives are nothing but another designed attempt targeting backdoor manipulation of the commission’s balance. That there is a clear intent to strategically defy and malign the High Court’s ruling on the treatment of the See page 7

SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 13, 2022

Budget 2022 is 'people-friendly', injects greater confidence in the economy By Vishnu Bisram

THE 2022 budget was passed Thursday evening. Snap interviews across the nation find overwhelming support for the budget. People believe it will make their lives better. They feel that their incomes will improve. Almost everyone says it is a great budget with some saying there could have been greater relief for the middle class, the poor and pensioners. Overall, the public seems pleased with the budget because there are goodies all around for everyone. Of those interviewed, almost everyone approves of the budget. A large majority also continues to trust the PPP rather than the coalition to manage the economy, with many in the public not forgetting how the Coalition overtaxed them and overspent during its tenure. The public also continues to have faith in Vice-President Jagdeo on economic matters and as the person in whom they have confidence for wealth creation. As many in the public opined, instead of mauling the budget, the opposition could have given a dispassionate, unemotional analysis of the budget. There must be something in the budget that is praiseworthy. Several parliamentary responses had no relationship to the budget.

The budget allocates a lot of money to infrastructure with an ambitious capital-expenditure programme that the private sector says will lay the groundwork for future development. The pubic welcomes the increased investment in public infrastructure. The people clamour for better roads and bridges and the government has responded with a budget that addresses road construction – new highways and modern roadways. There are increases in allocations across the board in every area. Those polled say no section of society is neglected or marginalised in the budget. Everyone agrees that infrastructure is a key to development – it lays the groundwork for long-term expansion of the economy, paving the way for investment and development. Productivity and growth are key objectives of the budget. There is growing confidence among the population for Guyana’s economic progress. They feel that with increasing amounts of oil there are a lot of opportunities for the country to grow quickly. The budget talks of achieving higher inclusive growth, modernisation of the economy, expansion of education, increasing use of technology, green-energy transition, climate change, among other critical areas that are key to fostering development. These are laudable goals. And no doubt they will be achieved as

government plays an enabling role in driving growth through private investment. The budget is full of possibilities for more investments and job-creation. Some say the budget is “people-friendly”, bringing new confidence to usher in development in the midst of a terrible calamity of the COVID pandemic. The welfare of the poor is an important aspect of the budget. Government has increased pension payments though the public feels the increment should have been larger. Also, farmers feel more could have been invested on capital expenditure in farming communities and infrastructure in farm lands. The farmers note that since independence, for some 33 years, they were ignored by government except during the PPP administrations. They would have liked funding for tech farming – aqua and others encourage farming. The economy remains COVID-stricken and in need of stimulus. And the government has offered stimuli in various areas linked to production. But there could have been some value-added incentives to encourage manufacturing. The country needs to accelerate people and capital productivity and value-added creation through innovation, so that we can export to our neighbours. This would spur new industries, thereby leading to job creation.

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The population complains about unaffordable price increases. And the government has responded to lower prices. The government is using fiscal policy to tame the burdensome inflation. Inflation is mostly imported, driven by high fuel and commodity prices. It cannot be tamed by monetary policy. Fiscal policy – reducing taxes – is apt. Reduction in taxes will make goods affordable, increase production, and grow the economy. Another complaint is the tax burden. The public and businesses welcome tax breaks such as a decline in import duties. But they say more breaks and incentives are needed. They say they would like lower personal income tax rates. Businesses also cry for a lower corporate tax rate. But government needs resources to fund projects. And consumers as well as businesses have gotten other kinds of breaks to lower the cost of living and prices to expand businesses. Farmers appeal for duty concessions for four-door pick-up cabs such as those given to single cabs. And there is an appeal for enhanced social security benefits for the poor and pensioners. Over time, these should be addressed. While everyone in the public may not have gotten everything they want, they are pleased with the budget.

GECOM must not allow any hindrance to further ... From page 6

RoR is not an understatement. Further, given the timing of the proposed dialogue if entertained, for obvious reasons must be viewed with extreme caution, given the high level of criticism and bullish approach that Aubrey Norton previously attempted to convey. Editor, the view of the majority of Guyanese citizens is that GECOM should no longer waste valuable time on these fantasies and political gamesmanship being perpetrated by the PNC cohorts for want of cheap publicity. Rather, the time is now for the organisation to get down to the serious task of filling the still available vacant positions that are necessary to conduct the LGEs. There are no problems with funds as the PPP/C Government has ensured that more than $4 billion in the 2022 budgetary allocations is at the disposal of GECOM as a means to this end. Importantly, the commission needs to ensure that its Secretariat is tooled, and also empowered with officials of high-standing credibility at this critical time and going forward, to gain the confidence of the nation. We can no longer

entertain the re-hiring of some of the shortlisted candidates with known previous disruptive and unholy track records in their previous roles at the organisation. In this regard, the likes of Melanie Marshall, among others, is almost a conundrum in the process, given her past refusal to implement legitimate tasks assigned to her by the Region Four Returning Officer (RO). It was the dubious Ms. Marshall who handled the questionable spreadsheet in the 2015 General and Regional Elections, and who suddenly disappeared when she was needed to respond to official objections. Subsequently, it was this official who after serious objections regarding the Region Four RO’s position, was transferred to function in Region Six in response to the vehement demands regarding a lack of confidence in the level of fairness and professionalism for the role. Of note, it was corrupted GECOM officials who deliberately contributed to the issuance of varying directives to elections officials on the East Coast of Demerara in the 2020 Elections that provided a basis for falsification claims and these persons

must be removed from the system. Consequently, the commission and Chief Elections Officer must ensure the necessary and required exercise of due-diligence examination of each key applicant before an appointment. From a more candid standpoint, one cannot help but acknowledge the changing pitch in the notes of Mr. Norton. Perhaps he has recognised that neither the PPP/C nor GECOM would accept the bullish tantrums of the same old PNC. Maybe it is becoming more and more clear that our citizens and even APNU supporters would no longer accept activities that exemplified the old thievish traits before the 1992 restoration of democracy. Indeed, given the abundance of evidence, it would be foolish to keep playing the same old tune to which most of the Guyanese people have refused to dance. The current status of affairs offers Aubrey Norton’s PNC an opportunity to help build a one Guyana. There is no doubt that the PPP/C is the genuinely elected government and the present leadership of GECOM is also legal. Hence, it is most

appropriate that all and sundry must recognise them. The way forward in this country is that we must recognise each other and work together for a better Guyana. Nothing is wrong to put on the GECOM’s agenda, the preparation of a new voters list, but not at the expense of further delaying the LGEs. There is a current legal procedure and GECOM must produce an updated voters list to put all systems in place for the holding of LGEs this year. The Opposition Shadow Local Government MP Ganesh Mahipaul, in his budget presentation, demanded that the PPP/C Government conduct the Local Government Elections as soon as possible and this is also plausible. With the CEO in place, a plan for the holding of the LGEs is the priority, and filling the vacancies must be done quickly to ensure fair and transparent elections earliest. No further hindrances must be accommodated. Yours sincerely, Neil Kumar

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 13, 2022

Chelsea Debarros: A young and inspiring author LATE last year I received an email message from an individual requesting to post my article titled “Backtracking and ‘boring’ the Border: a remarkable intervention” (April 11, 2021) in this space on her Facebook page. It is not usual for individuals to ask for permission to post materials, and, actually, it is a decent thing to do. What caught my attention, however, was the topic of the article to be posted, and my unfamiliarity with the email sender. I was taken aback by the thought after more than 25 years of backtracking from Guyana to North America and elsewhere someone is exploring an event that was once a household word in Guyana, and the Diaspora. I am convinced that backtracking has not received adequate analysis, however. I probed further. I realised that the name of the email sender was Chelsea DeBarros, a young lady, living in Queens, New York, from Guyanese background. The age and location of Debarros did not shock but surprise me since she might not have been directly involved in the backtrack journey that was so central to about at least 50 per cent of the Guyanese population in Queens.

She was too young, I thought. Nevertheless, the following statement from her provided me with a little window into her inquisitive mind. She declared: “I learned of significant historical movements I often overheard my parents discuss: Independence Day from British rule, the 1830 abolition of Slavery Act, Prime Minister Burnham’s 1972 ‘House, Clothe, and Feed the Nation’ initiative, and the growing racial tensions between Indo and Afro Guyanese and ‘twice removed,’ which refers to Indo-Guyanese people’s migration patterns from India to Guyana and North America.” Her declaration reveals what is called in sociological circles intergenerational oral communication and knowledge, which generally hits a sort of dead-end by the first generation born in the new enclave. The common reaction is, oh no, here we go again, the same story. Debarros proved to be different. In her own words: “I realised who I am: a proud American with heritages in Guyana, India, and Portugal. I love all of the ancestors who created me, although I do not have a photo of them or know all of their names. I discovered that “two times removed” does not mean “origin-less”.

Chelsea Debarros Rather, it makes me a citizen the world she lives in. I am of everywhere and nowhere. impressed. My home and identity are I am therefore not surnot fixed to a place but es- prised by her academic lutablished through feelings of cidity declaring that “as a belonging”. What a confident rising graduate with a BA in description of herself in an Sociology and Criminology, environment where the forces with minors in Anthropoloand facets of American ways gy and Civic Engagement, have the tendency to bulldoze I spend most of my time retraditional immigrant mores searching how social factors and embrace the ideals as- and current events influence sociated with unwavering the livelihoods of certain assimilation. Debarros has populations.” In the early instead expressed her “socio- years of the Trump adminislogical imagination” reveal- tration, Debarros witnessed ing her relationship between how the Immigration and social and personal patterns Customs raided the ethnic as to what is happening in Queens region looking for

undocumented individuals in the most daring ways striking fear in the community. “As an American,” she espouses, “I was disgusted, shocked, and disappointed at the harmful enforcement tactics that terrorised communities and workers.” She contended that her observation of the aforesaid events has inspired her “to conduct ethnographic research into the Guyanese population that rarely gets spoken about: the undocumented”. Further, she is of the conviction that she is “a voice for the voiceless by sharing their backtrack journeys.” We salute you. Chelsea Debarros is currently writing a book on “Backtrack Journeys: Life of the Undocumented in Little Guyana” that focuses on the thrilling stories of three undocumented Guyanese and their unrevealed journeys from their homeland to the United States via the backtrack or illegal route, capturing their trials and tribulations without renouncing but using their identity to have a livable life in their new-found home. Here is an excerpt from chapter one titled Veda’s Arrival in which Chelsea describes why Veda left. “Guyana no longer felt like home, and Veda had

to get out. She got in touch with a one-legged pirate named Cardo, who got her to this point. As she stood on the sandbank and heard his boat speed back off into the abyss, she fought the desire to scream at the top of her lungs. She sat down. Her head was still spinning after their landing. She had been dazed and exhausted by the vastness of the dark ocean, the crashing of the waves, the constant hurling back and forth. Sapna mumbled her prayers to Lord Rama, but Veda knew that her saviour wasn’t coming anytime soon.” I believe that Chelsea Debarros, an undergraduate student at Hofstra University with mixed Guyanese heritage, a product of mass migration from Guyana to North America, is a highly perceptive individual endowed with creative writing abilities. These attributes, among others, are so necessary to succeed in the world of authorship, and I am convinced that she will answer in the affirmative, bringing candid stories, which for some reasons, have been buried and closeted. Yet, they are central to the Guyanese migratory experience (lomarsh.roopnarine@ jsums.edu).

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 13, 2022

Increase in fish catch ‘paints’ bright future for Guyana

EARLIER this month, Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha, announced that the country’s 2021 overall fish production had increased by more than 10 per cent from 2020, and exports for the fisheries sector surpassed GUY$4 billion–a positive sign that should help ease concerns over the state of the industry. Despite recent worries about reduced fishing opportunities, the sector has shown signs of renewed strength. And this trend is expected to continue as the Fisheries Department sets up additional regulatory and management plans to safeguard Guyana’s fishery future. The government first noted declining fish production in the mid-2000s, reaching their lowest point in 2015. Since then, there has been a gradual recovery. In 2019, the Department received a tailored five-year management plan from the World Wildlife Fund to develop a thriving fishing sector while also promoting and implementing smart and sustainable fishing prac-

tices. These goals have become a national focus, especially as claims that the growing energy industry might have some impact on fishing have come front and center. In late 2021, the Ministry of Agriculture announced that it hoped to double the country’s fish production by 2025 by implementing new aquaculture techniques that will increase catch levels. The government’s 2022 annual budget includes nearly GUY$750 million to support the fisheries and aquaculture sector, with GUY$200 million dedicated to introducing and developing marine cage fishing, which is expected to boost production of some types of seafood. Much of this will be drawn from the more than US$600 million in oil revenues the government received last year. Minister Mustapha said those investments “are expected to raise aquaculture production by over 300 percent”, putting the government well on its way to meeting its 2025 goals. Further, the marine cage initiative is projected to guarantee fisherfolk

earnings of up to GUY$8 million in profits annually. In addition to the marine cages and supporting more sustainable fishing equipment, the government is promoting the development of aquaponics as a climate-smart option for food production. Increased fish production is a priority for the government but doing so i-n an environmentally friendly and sustainable way will be critically important. Measures like regulating the types of fishing gear used and carefully monitoring fishing stocks can help the industry survive long term. Government policies enforcing closed seasons, well-designed quotas for vulnerable species, and the licensing of all fishing vessels will also be key to avoid overfishing issues that have plagued many developing countries. Coastal areas like mangroves also play an important role in nurturing fish and shrimp, so

concerted efforts to ensure that new infrastructure and modernisation do not have negative impacts on these areas are critical. A comprehensive assessment of Guyana’s fishery resources and the health of current species is also crucially important. Identifying vulnerable species and instituting strict quotas have played key roles in countries like Canada, the U.S. and the U.K. and have brought important species like cod back from the brink of collapse. The experience of these countries also points to an important truth: it is fully possible to have both a large oil and gas sector and a thriving fishing industry. Extensive oil and gas development happens off the coast of all three countries, but each retains a major fishing industry and healthy fish populations through smart management. Guyana’s own energy development is unlikely to have much of an impact on most fish stocks, but monitoring

is still crucial. Development is occurring in deepwater areas more than 150 kilometres offshore, while the majority of Guyana’s fisheries exist within just a few kilometres offshore in shallow waters. Guyana’s growing energy industry could actually serve as an opportunity for fisheries, as more funding becomes available to be allocated to support aquaculture, active fisheries management, and new technology for local fishermen. Revenues could also help the Guyana Defence Force better ward off foreign fishing vessels that encroach on Guyanese

waters or violate local fishing rules. Other recent policies targeting the development of fisheries include the Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture Strategy, the resuscitation of the National Fisherfolk Organisation, the development of a fishing vessel inspection programme and the training of sector officials who can further support local fisherfolk. These will all help create a more robust fishing industry for Guyanese that can continue to operate successfully alongside energy development.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 13, 2022

Analysing the Jagdeo interview

RECENTLY, an international reporter interviewed Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, on several issues relating to allegations of corruption, the rights and development of the Amerindian people and the oil and gas sector. Jagdeo was asked several questions by the reporter, Isobel Yeung. The interview went left when Yeung decided to let her proverbial hair down and started to pursue the real reasons for the interview with Jagdeo. It became clear at this point that Yeung was on a mission and had an agenda or special interests which she was pursuing from the onset. She was not there for Jagdeo’s answers to the basic questions that would give him the platform to talk about the strong policies of his PPP/C Government which he did. Despite this, Jagdeo answered every single question that she threw at him truthfully, competently, factually, and

empirically. Then the reporter introduced a wave of questions that dealt with the government’s alleged poor treatment of Amerindians land rights and development. Jagdeo explained the issues to the journalist on how Amerindians were treated by the PPP/C in comparison to other countries. He rebuffed the views peddled of the developed world which had a track record of viewing Guyana condescendingly and disparagingly. Jagdeo went at lengths to explain this to Yeung but she seemed to be pursuing a particular narrative that simply did not exist. From this point on, the reporter asked Jagdeo a set of loaded and non-sequitur questions that just did not fit into the interview. For example, she asked, “Guyana has attracted lots of foreign investment recently, what is it that Guyana has to offer?” Seriously? An international reporter? Nonetheless, Jagdeo with a smirk on his face used the opportunity to

speak about his government’s transformation of macroeconomics, local content laws, financial philosophy, and the infrastructure drive. Then the journalist asked Jagdeo about the allegations of corruption, Chinese investment, and contracts. A firm and seemingly focused, Jagdeo answered Yeung pointedly. At this point, it had become clear that she appeared not to have a clue that Guyana has firm laws that govern the procurement and tender of projects. He had to school the reporter on the projects and wrong figures that she had presented. Again, she seemed to be pursuing a special interest with her line of questions related to Chinese investment and trying to whip up anti-China hysteria. As the reporter bias and aim became more pronounced, Jagdeo made clear the government’s One-China policy about Taiwan and stated that China had never offered Guyana US$1.5B dollars

as a bribe. Jagdeo made the point that the allegations of bribery made against him were not true. He even asked for evidence. He sternly enquired about the source of the allegations to be handed over to the police. Yeung seemed to panic only mentioning his friendship with an individual named ‘Su’, who she claimed told her that he accepted bribes. This proved to have no truth in it. Firstly, the whole interview was horrible from the start of the reporter’s line of questioning. It was all over the place. It was not focused and Yeung appeared to be playing ‘pin the tail on the donkey’ with Jagdeo. Surely, the Emmy award-winning reporter could have asked more pointed and focused questions about the subject matter. She could have backed them up with empirical evidence. Moreso, having the facts about Guyana’s relationship with China, Chinese investment, in-

frastructure development here and the Taiwanese fax pau would be great to have during this interview with Jagdeo. One would assume that the New York-based reporter was ill-prepared and ill-advised ahead of the interview with Jagdeo. She did not pay any regard to the tenets of good journalism which has to do with objectivity, professionalism, accuracy, and facts. Yeung missed an opportunity to have one of the greatest interviews on Guyana by getting mixed up in pursuing special interests. Consequently, people are speaking about the meeting she allegedly had here and abroad. It was in poor taste. Secondly, all the time spent on China and Chinese investment here seems to ring a familiar bell. Was the Vice News Reporter just carrying out instructions for some big and powerful special interest groups here? The questions, apart from the fact that they were not structured and appropriate, did point to China’s supposed worrying influence over Guyana, the Caribbean and South America. Similarly, Prime

Minister Mia Mottley had just recently debunked similar claims in her country and region. Guyana, through Jagdeo, has said that we do not want to get caught between the games of machinations and politics played by the East and West. Guyana wants to do whatever is in its interest that will lead to its development and prosperity. And finally, Jagdeo must see this bribery allegation as a setup and a ball of political nothingness. Once he is certain that his integrity is above board then he has nothing to fear because there is no sign of Dutch disease entering his Government. He did the right thing when he released the full interview with Yeung. He has crippled the plan to taint him and his government in a bad light internationally and at home. National politicians who jumped at the chance to call for a probe or to get in the news with sensational headlines and quotes will set themselves up for the same to be said about them in the future. Yeung will not get any award for this politically-dead interview.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 13, 2022

Should Energy drinks be restricted?

ENERGY drinks were launched over 35 years ago and have since been a growing profitable business worldwide with an anticipated global market of US$86B by 2026. In the initial years the dangers from excessive consumption were not established and may have been overlooked, especially with the current vested interest in such exchange-traded funds and their prime sponsorship to key health and fitness events. However as more research, sensitisation and discussions are highlighting the consequences of overindulgence of these types of readily accessible beverages, leading to a looming public health crisis, the question beckons should energy drinks be restricted. In over 167 countries, energy drinks have appealed to a target audience of teenagers and young adults to enhance mental alertness and maximise physical performance, thus energising the body. If you read the labels you will see ingredients such as caffeine, guarana, taurine and L-carnitine but in unusually larger amounts than required or found in natural foods. Guarana is derived from a Brazilian cocoa bean that is almost double the potency of the coffee bean. Taurine

is the chemical naturally found in fish and meat but in smaller amounts, which regulates energy levels. L-carnitine, a popular chemical found in fat burners, helps the body in the conversion from fat to energy. Additionally, there are lots of added sugars or carbohydrates which also give a “sugar rush” elevating the blood glucose levels. Combination of vitamins may also be added to the formula and marketed as a booster for the human machine. The packaging of such energy products vary in sizes from snap shots to soda sizes with the comparison of at least two to six times the amount of caffeine contained in a regular cola. As a first time consumer you may notice an increase in your heart rate within minutes of consumption. But if you are a habitual consumer, the elevated heart rate and blood pressure may be noticed only if you use a blood pressure monitor. Frequent fluctuations on the heart functions causing irregular heart rhythms, especially from a healthy person, can induce unnecessary cardiac events such as a heart attack. Energy drinks create an initial caffeine rush experience after which there is a subsequent “sugar-crash” or burn out phase. So to get back that

burst of energy, more of the substance maybe consumed, which becomes a vicious cycle and leads to overindulgence. There is the practice of “drink binging” which may appeal to a younger crowd, especially when they want to “impress” their counterparts of how much more alcohol they can consume. So when they combine energy drinks and alcohol they do not feel as intoxicated and they become unaware of their motor skills and reaction time incoordination. On a more consequential note, such practices may severely impair one’s judgement and may result in risky behaviours such as unprotected or unwanted sexual intercourse or driving under the influence, which can be deadly. In some unfortunate incidences, fatal events due to cardiac arrest were recorded in healthy young persons who were involved in drink binging. A 2019 report on the effects of energy drinks on children was presented to the Parliament of the United Kingdom by the Science and Technology Select Committee, where considerations were made for either prohibitions of sale or voluntary sale restrictions by retailers who sell to children age 16 and under. However in most countries, outside of the European Union, no

statutory requirements for labelling of these products are instituted so that informed decisions can be made by consumers. The American Beverage Association comprising of 95 per cent of energy drinks manufacturers diverted government regulations in 2014 by the adoption of the “ABA Guidance for Responsible Labelling and Marketing of Energy Drinks”, having classified and marketed same as beverages and not dietary supplements. It was not until 2014 that the amount of caffeine contained in a stipulated serving size was voluntarily declared. The European Union made cautionary labels a requirement for all products (except teas and coffee), exceeding quantities of 150mg of caffeine per litre. Alerts such as “High caffeine content” and “Not recommended for children, pregnant or breast feeding mothers” are visible on those products manufactured in that zone. However only when enough supporting data can be obtained, then legal stipulations for consumer protection can be advocated, either by cautionary labels or institution of reclassification requirements, thereby restricting the sale and consumption of such camouflaged beverages. There is evidence that

excessive consumption of energy drinks had caused a number of visits to the Emergency Room in more advanced counties, where as high as 10 percent resulted in hospital admissions. Other undesirable effects that you may experience after continuous consumption are anxiety, restlessness and insomnia. Some mental health conditions may become more pronounced if triggered by sleep deprivation such as depression and poor memory. Persons have reported of stomach irritation and muscle twitching or hand tremor. Due to the high sugar content (54 to 62g per 16 oz. can) some consumers may have experienced weight gain, tooth decay and on a more serious note increase diabetic risk and kidney disease. Expansion of the product portfolio now presents a sugar-free option, which contains artificial sweeteners such as aspartame or acesulfame K. In Guyana more patients are presenting with kidney failure, including the younger generation, who require dialysis, a treatment that is a financial burden to families or the state. Further research to investigate if there is a link between kidney failure and energy drinks may be invaluable since this is the same target group that

may indulge in such social practices. Like the cigarette industry, it was only after overwhelming evidence linking the consumption to its long term health hazard that cautionary labels (such as “smoking is injurious to health”) and graphic health images were legally mandated to market this type of commodity. For many years, this highly hazardous industry was glamorised and marketed to enhance male prowess, which sadly shortened the lives of a number of male breadwinners and caused a rippled decimation across families. Some safe suggestions to improve your energy level require self-discipline to restrict the use of technological gadgets before bedtime, physical exercise early in the day, adequate hydration and at least seven to eight hours of sleep. For further discussions, contact the pharmacist of Medicine Express PHARMACY located at 223 Camp Street, between Lamaha and New Market Streets. If you have any queries, comments or further information on the above topic kindly forward them to medicine. express@gmail.com or send them to 223 Camp Street, N/burg. Tel #2255142.

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‘Core home subsidy’ support taken to Roxanne Burnham Gardens

AS the February 25, 2022 deadline for Core Home Support and Home Improvement Subsidiaries applications approach, all efforts are being made to ensure deserving families get an opportunity to apply. To this end, yet another massive outreach was held, on Saturday, at the Roxanne Burnham Gardens playfield, in Georgetown, to help attract applicants. Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues and Chief Executive Officer of the Central Housing and Planning Authority, Sherwyn Greaves visited the venue to give their support to staff as they attended to eager applicants.

This outreach falls under the Inter-American Development Bank-funded Adequate Housing and Urban Accessibility Programme which has two components that cater to low-income families. The Core Home Supports aspects afford families a chance at receiving a brand new 20ft x 20ft two-bedroom concrete home for a contribution of just $100,000. The other aspect is the Home Improvement Subsidy which enables persons in the target boundaries to receive up to $500,000 in materials to upgrade their homes free of cost. The boundary currently encompasses the La Parfaite Harmonie Housing Development in Region

SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 13, 2022

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, assisting with interviews during the outreach at Roxanne Burnham Gardens

A pensioner being interviewed at the Core Home Support and Home Improvement Subsidiaries outreach held in Roxanne Burnham Gardens Three; Georgetown to Grove on the East Bank of Demerara, Region Four; Georgetown to La Bonne

Intention and nineteen other select communities on the East Coast of Demerara, Region Four.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 13, 2022

Rigorous, transparent process employed for new Demerara Harbour Bridge –– potential contractors, including Chinese firm, vetted by multidisciplinary team

AS the government moves to build world-class infrastructure such as a new Demerara Harbour Bridge, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, has affirmed that rigorous and transparent processes will be employed at all times. “This government is following a rigorous and transparent process which is benefiting from the best available technical advice. Our objective is to ensure that we get world-class infrastructure, in this case, a world-class bridge on the most competitive financial terms,” Dr Singh was quoted as saying in a statement issued on Saturday evening. His affirmation of the government’s position was in direct response to a recent Alliance For Change (AFC) statement which suggested that negotiations with China State Construction Engineering Corporation Ltd (CSCEC) -- one of the bidders for the contract to construct the bridge – ended abruptly and under suspicious circumstances. The Chinese contractor was among nine firms that were shortlisted following a

public, open and transparent tendering process. The prequalified entities were Ballast Nedam Infrastructure, Suriname, BV; Odebrecht Engenharia e Construcao SA; Boskalis Guyana; Effiage Genie Civil Company Ltd (Netherlands); Rizzani de Eccher Construction (Italy); CSCEC; China Gezhouba Group Company Limited; JV China Railway International Group; China Road and Bridge Company; and China Railway Construction Corporation Ltd. Having been identified as the most responsive bidder, CSCEC was engaged by a multidisciplinary team that was created by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB). The team comprised Finance Secretary, Sukrishnalall Pasha; attorney-at-law, Ronald Burch-Smith; consultant/engineer, Marcel Gaskin and engineer, Intakab Indarjeet. The team was tasked with focusing on the construction cost and securing the financial terms and conditions that would serve the country’s best interest. Their mandate was to engage CSCEC to negotiate optimal financial terms and

conditions for the construction of the New Demerara River Bridge. The mandate also provided for the negotiation team to engage the second-ranked bidder, should negotiations with the first bidder prove unsuccessful. To this end, the team commenced negotiations with the CSCEC on December 24, 2021. But, unfortunately, after several meetings, the two sides were unable to successfully negotiate mutually acceptable financial terms and conditions. It was reported by the News Room that negotiations shifted to the second-ranked bidder on the list of pre-qualified firms. The negotiation team wrote NPTAB on January 20, 2022, seeking permission to terminate negotiations with CSCEC and commence negotiation with the second-ranked bidder, which is a Joint Venture company between China Railway Construction Corporation (International) Limited, China Railway Construction (Caribbean) Co. Ltd and China Railway Construction Bridge Engineering Bureau Group Co. Ltd Joint Venture. The tender board approved the request and paved

the way for the team to engage the second-ranked bidder. Negotiations with this company, which commenced on January 28, 2022, are ongoing. Notably, the negotiation team is of the view that any further disclosures about the specifics of these engagements at this time would undermine ongoing deliberations and is, therefore, unprepared to pursue such a course of action. “It is most unfortunate that the AFC should seek to cast aspersions on this rigorous process that is ongoing. This represents yet another

example of the opposition’s obstructive, counter-productive, and destructive behaviour, which, over the years, has been aimed at frustrating, stymying, and derailing development. “Indeed, Mr. [David] Patterson and the AFC should be the last to speak about transparency and accountability, given their dismal and disastrous track record, including the various scams that saw public funds being used to purchase jewellery and golden adornments for the very Patterson who claimed never to wear such jewellery despite the public availability

Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh of dozens of photographs proving otherwise. “Not to mention the vehicle scale scam and the Harbour Bridge and asphalt plant scam, among many others. The AFC, and Mr Patterson in particular, lacks the moral authority to speak on matters related to public accountability.” Dr Singh concluded.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 13, 2022

$41 million infectious unit commissioned at New Amsterdam Hospital The new Infectious Unit in the Compound of the New Amsterdam Hospital

Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony, on Saturday, commissioned a 15-bed Infectious Unit in the compound of the New Amsterdam Hospital, East BerbiceCorentyne (Region Six). The unit contains the male, female, maternity and paediatric wards. It is expected to aid in the fight against COVID-19, which is now in the fourth spike since the pandemic began. Regional Health Officer, Dr. Vishalya Sharma said that though the hospital is well established, it

does not have adequate space to accommodate COVID-19 patients. “At the start of the pandemic, we weren’t prepared to handle the cases that we do now, we would have zero to little in-patient facility to monitor and give our patients the quality of care that we want to. However, today is a very significant day in the region because we commissioned our own unit,” Dr. Sharma said. She noted that with the new facility, patients would

be much more comfortable and better care can be provided. “We would have had to allocate places, rescope areas in the institution to manage cases, however with this unit it will take a lot of pressure off the main institution and we can manage our patients in this exact area. The region currently has under 127 active cases. Dr. Anthony, during his main address at the commissioning ceremony, noted that since the onset of COVID-19 on

The Male Ward of the Infectious Unit

The Female Ward of the Infectious Unit

Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony Unveils the commemoration plaque for the new Infectious Unit March 11, 2020, there have been major improvements in managing the disease. He said as of January/ February this year, 75,000 COVID-19 tests were done and the Infectious Diseases Hospital at Lilliendaal has been outfitted with oxygen catering directly to 195 beds, as well as having adequate ventilators for patients. He said capacity has also been built at the regional hospitals.

“During this year, not only would we have built infrastructure, but we would have trained people and made sure that they are better equipped to treat COVID-19 patients.” “These facilities are not going to be idle, because for the next wave of COVID infections we are even better prepared, and if and when we get out of these waves of COVID infections we would repurpose this to make sure that we could use

it for other types of infectious diseases; so it is important that we have these resources,” Dr. Anthony stated. Meanwhile, CEO of the New Amsterdam Hospital, Dr. Bob Ramnauth, said that since the hospital was built 17 years ago it never had an infectious disease unit, and makeshift areas had to be used. He urged the users of the facility to ensure it is properly maintained. (DPI)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 13, 2022

Lata Mangeshkar and us By Orin Gordon

FOR a time, there was a mistaken belief that the great Lata Mangeshkar was the most recorded singer in history. Neither the question nor the methodology for establishing it has been definitively settled. However, in the musical world, in India and in the diaspora that

includes Guyana and Trinidad, there’s no doubt about her legacy. Lata died a week ago in the Mumbai hospital to which she’d been admitted, sick with COVID-19. She was 92. To many in Guyana during my childhood, Lata was a staple of their radio diet. At the height of her popularity and productiv-

ity, fewer people owned TVs than is now the case. In parts of the country, all folks had was the radio. And Lata and her beautiful voice were a major part of that. So were her sisters Usha Mangeshkar and Asha Bhosle, Kishore Kumar, and Mohammed Rafi. You can’t separate the prolific playback singer from her conThe late Lata Mangeshkar (Photo courtesy of Associate Times) temporaries. I can’t separate Lata from Kishore, with whom she had many famous duets. You know the scene in old Bollywood movies in which boy and girl flirt heavily in song, he moves in for a kiss, they come close and she twirls away at the last moment? Lata’s voice covered that of the shy tease, and the singing voice of the young man engaged in patient seduction was often Kishore’s. Her collaborations with Mohamed Rafi were mostly from earlier years. Lata’s influence spanned the classical and the popular. It preceded the iconic Amitabh Bachan, and continued right through to other generations. The Indian film industry changed, and Lata adapted. In came Mithun Chakraborthy and his character Gunmaster G9, a knockoff of James Bond. Lata sang Dil Tha Akela Akela in Surakksha, and Kishore, Usha and Manna Dey also appeared on the soundtrack. I didn’t consciously seek out the music of Lata and her contemporaries. My mother – a country girl from Goed Bananen Land in Canje, Berbice – forbade us from changing the station when a Hindi language song came on. A multiculturalist at heart, she took us to the cinema to see Bollywood classics such as Haathi Mere Saathi and Sholay. Bruce Lee would’ve been my choice. She lit diyas at Diwali at our Georgetown home, even though she was Christian; not ostentatiously so, and not as many as our Indo Guyanese friends. A

few, in cultural acknowledgement. This is who she is. In our family dynamics, dad was the softie who you could push for ill-advised concessions; mom was the law and the sentencing magistrate. You did not mess with her. You couldn’t sit for a meal unless properly dressed, and you spoke “proper English”, as she described it. Top of her list of beyond-the-pale offences was the other c-word, the racially-charged one for people of Indian descent. She never had to worry about any of us when it came to this, but she stopped talking to people who assumed that hers was a safe pair of ears. She couldn’t wield her influence or protect our sensibilities on the playground or in school, where cultural sensitivity can often be in short supply. To our safe ears, some ‘bredrin’ would make laughing references to a certain anatomical deficiency in otherwise attractive young women. It’s abundantly clear today that such broad generalisations have no backing. As a young radio announcer in Guyana, I’d rub shoulders in the record library with Ayube Hamid – one of the most gorgeous voices ever to speak into a mic – as he picked out his Lata and Kishore selections. AH did a range of shows featuring popular and classical songs from India, as well as western ones. The intro tune of his Indian Memory Album show was Rafi’s Suhani Raat, a haunting melody that makes me want to take the shirt off my back and give it away. When I had to get up early for a show or news shift, I’d wake up to Richard B. Mahase, and Indian music. That was a piece of conventional wisdom in radio programming… the heavily Indo-Guyanese rural communities got up early, and they needed to be served. Decades later, we’re still in our laagers. Was the opportunity of Lata Mangeshkar’s passing taken for all

Orin Gordon music stations in Guyana and T&T to clear blocs of their schedules and pay musical tribute to a culturally consequential artiste? The thinking of programme managers doesn’t seem to have evolved much. Generally, and with the exception of fusion tracks, radio playlists in T&T where I live do not cross-thread Indian music with mainstream hit songs. This separation has grown more pronounced as the number of stations has increased. Now a listener to a station that plays Indian songs doesn’t have to hear any other type of music. The admirably experimentative Machel Montano, Drupatee and others have provided openings, but many of the doors remain closed. This is a general reminder of how far we haven’t come. In our lifetime will we see leaders of parties in Guyana and T&T that are different from their base? Or will we continue to ringfence things? I hope that Lata’s legacy is reflected in my mother’s strictures... don’t tune out; tune in. Lata Mangeshkar joins country and western pioneer Charley Pride, Manu Dibango of Soul Makossa fame, and jazz figurehead Ellis Marsalis as great musicians claimed by COVID-19 in the past couple of years. They could have one heck of an Indo-Afro collab up there. A version of this column appeared in the Daily Express in T&T, where Orin is based. Follow him at oringordon.com

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 13, 2022

11 new homeowners receive keys in Cummings Lodge housing development ELEVEN new homeowners, on Saturday, received the keys to their new houses as the Ministry of Housing expands the Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara Housing Development with another 100 houses available in the new month. Each unit measures 20 feet by 30 feet (600 square feet). Approximately 190 homes are currently being built in the scheme and the remaining homes will be handed over shortly. The two-bedroom, elevated houses were constructed by the Central Housing and Planning Au-

are completed physically but of course the paperwork has to be done,” he noted. Further, Minister Croal thanked the support offered by the banking sector in ensuring that potential beneficiaries are assisted with the necessary prequalification exercise which expedites home ownership. Representatives from the banks were also present at the handing over ceremony. Minister Croal noted that the Aubrey Barker road in South Ruimveldt will eventually be connected to the Cummings Lodge housing area which will lead to tremendous transformation.

how much transformation is happening in this area alone,” Minister Croal told beneficiaries. Meanwhile, Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, said that the area was neglected under the APNU+AFC administration because investments were not made for proper infrastructure, water distribution, electricity and other basic structure. “Within 18 months in office we were able to build roads in this area, bring electricity to the area, build the first foundation for the first home in this area, Travis Bowman receives the keys to his new home from Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal in the presence of Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues and CH&PA CEO Sherwyn Greaves

An aerial view of the new houses in Cummings Lodge thority (CHPA) and were sold at a cost of $7.5M each. At the simple but significant ceremony, Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, said the government and the ministry will ensure that there is a housing programme that responds to the needs of all levels of society. “We are handing over 11 houses in the first phase and by the end of next month we will have over a 100 houses that will be handed over. Currently, 87

“It is important to put in context the hard work that is being done by our staff to ensure that we can complete these projects in a timely manner,” he said. According to the Housing Minister, another area in Cummings Lodge is currently being cleared to construct 140 three-bedroom flat houses during the year. “This will be a very populated area with road networks, electricity infrastructure and water networks, then many will understand and appreciate

The Interior of one of the new houses

and, today, when you look around, you see dozens of houses standing. “After 18 months in office, I am pleased to be a part of this ceremony to hand over the first 11 homes to the beneficiaries,” Minister Rodrigues said. She noted that it was just a demonstration of the commitment by the government to bring affordable housing to the people of the country in keeping with the promises made. “I know the people who are here made great sacrifices and were able to save their money and they visited the Ministry of Housing and expressed their interest and it has paid off; so I want to congratulate them for their patience and sacrifice and for them putting their confidence in our government,” Minister Rodrigues added. All of the beneficiaries were elated at receiving their new homes, noting that it became a reality after they made great sacrifices over a long period of time.

Sand and stone production sees significant growth in 2021

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 13, 2022

- fuelled by construction boom; further expansion projected

By Rehana Ahamad AMID growing demands, the Government of Guyana has already begun to notice significant improvements in the area of local quarry production, especially in the cases of sand and stone. Figures provided by Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat shows that for 2021, the production for sand surpassed 1.65 million tonnes, as compared to the 688,051 tonnes produced in 2020.

As for stone, 2021 saw a production of 853,099 tonnes, as compared to the 737,750 tonnes produced during the same period in the previous year. It has been noted that even with improved production, there were still complaints of shortages across the country. It is for this reason that Minister Bharrat has called for ramped-up production in aggregates, and has even urged the private sector to continue investments in the

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat

sand-mining and quarry industries. In the meantime, there have been complaints from some quarters that Guyana has been importing stone, but according to Minister Bharrat, this only points to the growing need for improved production and continued investments. Already, in 2021, 11 quarry licences were issued to new applicants, covering 30,737 acres with each having a productive capacity of 150,000-200,000 metric tonnes per year. This was reported by Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, during his six-hour-long presentation of the mammoth 2022 national budget of $552.9 billion. He explained that since most of the new quarries are anticipated to come on stream by the end of 2022, production figures by the end of this year would see further improvements. “Beyond oil and gas, other extractives such as gold, bauxite, sand, stone, and other minerals will be major contributors to Guyana’s economy going forward. Our government recognises the critical role of the mining sector in the economy and will continue to invest in and promote the expansion of the sector,” Dr Singh told the National Assembly last month. He said that going forward, these developments

will be executed in a manner that remains mindful of the challenges and vulnerabilities of the mining sector, as were clearly illustrated during the 2021 floods when operating sites and access roads were inundated and rendered impassable for an extended time. But even with floods, the quarry sector still managed to expand by some 81.6 per cent in 2021. “Sand extraction and stone production are estimated to have grown by 132.8 per cent and 15.9 percent, respectively,” Minister Singh specified. He noted that this growth was partially supported by heavy emphasis of “construction activity in the government’s Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP), as well as rapid expansion in privatesector construction activity.” Within the past two years, Guyana has been notably experiencing a construction boom. As a matter of fact, Minister Singh reported that current estimates show that the construction sector grew by 29.8 per cent when compared with 2020, and with several major infrastructural projects planned for 2022 and beyond, several sectors including mining and construction are poised to take off even further. Shortly after the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic assumed office in

2020, it brought an end to what was deemed as a standstill in the quarry industry, owing to the non-granting of licences throughout the tenure of the David Granger-led government. In December 2020, the PPP/C government granted approvals for Black Jaguar Investment Group, owned by Essequibo businessman Tamesh Jagmohan, to operate a block in the Mazaruni River. At the time of the announcement, the quarry was positioned to be the largest of its kind in Guyana and the Caribbean, with plans to produce some 20,000 metric tonnes every week. The company had said that unlike other quarries, it will be engaging international partners to establish multiple sites of extraction and production. “Other quarries in Guyana have a very limited approach to extraction and production; they operate only a single extraction and processing system no matter the size of the QL (quarry licence) and the availability of the resource.” To this end, the company in a statement had said that it plans to revolutionise the way the quarry industry operates in Guyana and to “solve the chronic shortage of supply that has resulted in a resource-rich country having to import aggregate to meet demand.”

Even with the devastating 2021 floods, the quarry sector still managed to expand by some 81.6 per cent

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 13, 2022

Human Services Ministry facilitating entrepreneurs through free ‘WIIN GY’ app

THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has launched a free ‘WIIN GY’ App to promote women-owned businesses. ‘WIIN,’ an acronym for the established Women’s Innovation and Investment Network, is designed to facilitate both the advertising and marketing needs of women-owned businesses across several sectors in Guyana. Not only does it provide op-

have benefitted from the extensive training done in their respective fields through the Ministry’s platform but can also be utilised by all women to showcase their ventures. Among the categories featured on the App include, but are not limited to, Health, Beauty and Wellness, Fashion, Food, Arts and Craft, Event Planning and Décor, Media, Graphics Designing, Photography and Videog-

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud (left) and B Socially Intact founder, Brittany Singh exhibits the WiiN App portunities locally, but may open doors globally since it is available for free download anywhere. Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, was quoted in a press release as saying: “The WIIN App is perfectly poised to tangibly support women in growing their businesses by increasing visibility and raising their business profile using an ICT platform at absolutely no cost to them.” Minister Persaud went on to add, “I urge women across the country to use this App to allow more and more people to appreciate the excellent work they have been doing and to use the high-quality products they have developed. I am proud of where our Guyanese women entrepreneurs are and I want the world see them and applaud them too. Share the WIIN app, use it and let all see that it’s “made by Guyanese women for the world.” According to the press release, the purpose of the App is to ensure women-owned businesses gain the visibility they need to succeed in the economy. Over 80 businesses across all the regions are already listed on the app. Primarily, the App caters to participants who would

raphy, Printing, Stationery, Janitorial, Academic, Transportation, Gardening, Landscaping, Construction, Tech and Media, Entertainment, E-Commerce an even Automotive Repairs. It is as simple as downloading the App and searching through the various categories to select a product or service that is right for you and available to you. Annisha Layne is the owner of Craft’N’Love that is located at the Little Otter Giftshop and specialises in personalised handmade crafts as well as décor. She said that the App offers her the opportunity to give her business a wider exposure, and, in turn, increase sales and brand value with sales globally. “I think that the initiative of this App is a great initiative to the Ministry and to women-owned businesses, because, at the end of the day, both parties win supporting the Ministry’s push towards creating a strong business environment for women,” Layne added. Another business owner, Indra Constantine of Crisel’s Enterprise in Region Three, highlighted that she was thankful for Minister Persaud’s work in helping to empower women.

The entrepreneur revealed that she was inspired by Minister Persaud and had taken the initiative to help women owned- businesses to grow with over 15 women-owned businesses coming under her umbrella including in areas such as construction, sewing, catering, décor and event planning. For persons interested in

using the platform for their business, registration can be done by simply clicking the ‘register business’ icon after downloading the app. After that, entrepreneurs will be required to complete their profile with particulars such as location, service type and contact while also having the option to upload their brand logo and photos of their work.

After registering, a team from the ministry will review each application and provide approval for their business to be listed. Registrants will be notified via email that their application has been approved and listed. Registrants can then view their profile and make updates as needed since each business will be allowed to manage its own business

information provided on the app. The app can be downloaded from the link, https:// wiin.gov.gy/#/ or through the Google Play Store using any android device. Persons who own an Apple device are asked to wait a little longer as the app is being further developed to allow for access on those devices.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 13, 2022

100-year-old ‘Uncle Ren’ keeping history alive for his 165 offspring By Jared Liddell

GUYANA’S newest centenarian, Edwin Renford McDonald, has a way of painting a picture with his words to effectively chronicle his hundred-year journey; this is a skill he frequently puts to use to share the history of his family with his 165 offspring – children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. ‘Uncle Ren’, as he’s known in Hopetown, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) is the patriarch of his 165-member family. A father of 15, Uncle Ren has also been blessed with 65 grandchildren; 75 great grands; and 10 greatgreat grandchildren. The visually impaired man stands as one of his only family members to have met and interacted with six generations of his bloodline. The mother of his 15 children died 23 years ago; according to their son Michael, the pair grew up together in Hopetown and fell in love. They got married in 1944, at the age of 22. The couple’s first four children survived while their fifth to 10th child all died during infancy. Uncle Ren and his wife then went on to birth another five children. Uncle Ren lost his ability to walk some three years ago, but that has not stopped him from continuing to live a full life with the help of his family. He continues to sing and tell stories; two things that he said brings him joy. In his 100 years, Uncle Ren worked as a farmer and train driver in Kwakwani in Region 10 and subsequently returned to his

hometown to take up a job as a ranger. He was later promoted to the position of superintendent of works, a position which he retained until his retirement. At his 100th birthday celebration on Thursday last, Uncle Ren, in his usual style, took the time to share life stories with his family. He stated that he always paid keen attention when his grandfather spoke of his experience as a slave on the plantations in early British Guiana. And even though those stories were told to him many years ago, he could still recall accurately the details provided by his grandfather, especially the atrocities that slaves lived through. Uncle Ren noted that while the stories spoke of the difficult circumstances and treatment meted out to the slaves, it also chronicled the determination and strength of his forefathers. These stories not only inspired Uncle Ren but it gave him the strength and confidence to pursue his dreams and it is one of the major reasons he still insists on sharing the stories with his offspring. Remembering fondly his childhood, Uncle Ren spoke of one of his favorite meals fish broth. He recalled that it was a staple on the weekends and “them old people” would gather together in the back yard, peeling provisions and bonding. “Every week we used to cook soup here in the village, people come put two plantains, two this, two that. Everybody came together and they talk and they cook. I always remember it because everybody would come together.”

He said his father placed heavy importance on a good walk with God, making him and his siblings attend services at all three of the churches in the village every Sunday. “Three churches were in this village when I was small and we had to go to all three; my father was very serious about that. We went to church every Sunday because he wanted us to be close to God.” Uncle Ren said he has found joy in his old age, being able to share his family’s story, passing down first-hand knowledge and experience through the family’s bloodline. Michael McDonald, who described himself as one of Uncle Ren’s favourite children, told the Sunday Chronicle that he has fond memories of stories his father told him. He is the 11th child for his parents. According to Michael, knowing the history of the family, how they came to settle in Hopetown, and how they were able to make life for themselves has always been an inspiration. Michael is proud that his children and his Centenarian, Edwin Renford McDonald grandchildren all have the chance to hear the known as Uncle Ren (Samuel Maughn same stories that made him the man he is, more so from his father. photo) Michael is grateful that both of his parents Uncle Ren now tries to be a voice of rea- showered him and his siblings with love. He son in the lives of the young people around described his upbringing as humble, noting him but he never forgets that he too had that his father made many sacrifices to ensure phases as a young man where all he wanted that his family was taken care of. to do was charter his own path and as he jok“We didn’t have the fancy clothes ingly said: “break as many rules as possible.” and stuff like that, but to us that wasn’t Prayer, he said, is one of his most useful even important, we had everything that tools, noting that it has helped him to remain we needed, my father made sure of that, optimistic and has guided him as he navigated he worked hard to make sure that we got life these past 100 years. whatever we needed,” Michael said.

Kwakwani residents benefit from medical outreach

A CHINESE medical team, in collaboration with the Kwakwani Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) and Rong-An Inc. (a Chinese logging company) held its 17th Medical Outreach on Friday at Kwakwani, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice). It was held at the Kwakwani Community Centre where Dr. Delleana Anderson, Head of Kwakwani District Hospital along with

three nurses, one medic, and one attendant were present to assist. The Chinese Medical Team consisted of 14 doctors and two chefs. Their specialities were General Surgery, Nephrology, Orthopaedics, Burns and Plastic Surgery, Ophthalmology, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Anaesthesiology, Pathology, Radiology and Traditional Chinese Medicine. A total of 76 residents were examined by the vari-

A doctor of the medical team prescribing medication to a patient (Delano Williams photo)

ous doctors and the majority sought examination by the ophthalmologist. Administrative Coordinator of Rong-an Inc., Faneeza Stoll, shared that this was the fourth medical outreach held at Kwakwani. Rong-an Inc has an existing working relationship with the Kwakwani community, and so, the company recognised that medical care was greatly needed. “We are very happy that you in the Kwakwani community will benefit from this outreach. As part of RongAn Inc’s CSR programme, medical outreaches supported by the Chinese medical team will continue in the following years and expand to various communities,”

The ophthalmologist examines a resident of Kwakwani (Delano Williams photo) Stoll said. Cort Simeon, the Vice-Chairman of the Kwakwani Neighbourhood

Democratic Council, expressed appreciation to Rong-An Inc and the team of doctors for their hard

The Chinese Medical Team (Delano Williams photo)

work. Medications were also donated by the Chinese Medical Team to the Kwakwani District Hospital.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 13, 2022

By Norton’s logic, the PPP/C Gov’t is legitimate - Nandlall

LEADER of the People’s National Congress/ Reform (PNC/R), Aubrey Norton has publicly contended that the legitimacy of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government has to be determined by an elections petition. In response, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall said that even by using Norton’s logic, the PPP/C government is legitimate. Nandlall argued on Saturday that the opposition has filed not one, but two elections petition which were both heard and dismissed by the High Court that has the jurisdiction to do so. “Therefore, following Mr. Norton’s logic, the government’s legitimacy has been determined twice by the proper constitutional forum,” Nandlall posited. He continued, “Admittedly, appeals have been filed against those rulings. However, Mr. Norton’s legal

advisers will inform him that the filing of appeals do not, by and of themselves, operate to stay the decisions appealed against.” Further, Nandlall said that Norton ought to be advised that “in any event, it is juridically impossible to stay the dismissal of a case.” It is Nandlall’s legal argument that the “legitimacy” of a government cannot be determined by an elections petition; that election petition may determine that the government is “illegitimate.” He went even further to quote what he said is a fundamental principle of law expressed in the Latin maxim, ‘’omnia praesumuntur rite esse acta,” which means, “All things are presumed to be done in due form.’’ This principle, Nandlall asserted, applies to the March 2, 2020, General and Regional Elections. “It is buttressed by sev-

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall eral incontrovertible processes, including that those elections were observed and certified to be free, fair and credible by every local, regional and international agency invited and accredited to do so,” Nandlall said pointedly. He noted too that it is not within the purview, remit, or power of the leader of the opposition to determine the legitimacy

of the government. “The corollary is also a truism: it is not within the purview, remit, or power of the leader of the opposition to determine the illegitimacy of the government, either,” Nandlall said. In reaffirming the legitimacy of President Dr. Irfaan Ali and the PPP/C government, Nandlall said that every single ballot was recounted in what could be deemed an unprecedented occurrence in modern electoral history. “That recount was observed by a team described by Mr. Norton’s predecessor, no other than the sitting President at the time, Mr. David Granger as ‘the most legitimate interlocutor.’ The team adjudged the exercise to be transparent and credible,” Nandlall reminded. He also pointed to the fact that the recount was facilitated by Statements of Poll (SoP’s) in the custody of the PPP/C and every

other contending party, with the exception of the main A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Opposition, as well as those in the possession of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). “Strikingly, Mr. Norton’s party is yet to disclose their Statements of Poll for anyone to examine. It is in these circumstances that the Chairperson of GECOM declared Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, to be elected President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and the People’s Progressive Party/Civic to be the victor at those elections,” Nandlall said, adding, “Hence, I agree with Mr. Norton ‘that legitimacy comes from elections in this regard.’” The official pronouncements of the elections were made six months after polling day. After that, several GECOM employees, along with a number of now op-

Leader of the PNC/R, Aubrey Norton position members, were fingered in allegations of electoral fraud and attempts to steal votes in favour of the APNU+AFC, which is led by the PNC/R. Although the official declaration was properly made, the APNU+AFC has refused to recognise the administration as being one that is legitimate.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 13, 2022

Rice could rake in over US$288M this year By Navendra Seoraj

Rice being prepared for export

EVEN with some farmers still reeling from the effects of periodic flooding last year, mechanisms and measures outlined in the government’s fiscal plan, Budget 2022, are expected

to serve as a springboard for recovery and advancement in Guyana’s rice industry, which is projected to earn US$288.6 million this year. Since time immemorial, rice has been described as the mainstay of Guyana’s agriculture sector, with the cultivation of this crop maintaining its spot as a primary economic activity in many rural farming communities. “We see rice maintaining its importance and increasing its contribution in our economy going forward,” Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, said during his presentation of Budget 2022 to the National Assembly on January 26, 2022. The government’s immediate priority, as outlined by Dr. Singh, is to help rice farmers recover from the aftermath of the 2021 floods quickly, and then to expand the cultivation of paddy and production of more valueadded varieties and products. In 2022, a total of 185,000 hectares of land are slated for cultivation, with plans to expand by 8,000 hectares to 193,000 hectares by 2026. “Focus in 2022 will see improved drainage and irrigation to mitigate losses, and expanded research on new high yielding varieties, and seed production. In that regard, soil testing facilities were made available to farmers through the construction of a soil laboratory at the Burma Rice Research Station,” Dr. Singh related, adding that a valueadded laboratory for rice and rice products was completed in 2021. Further, this year, the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) will expend over $300 million in plant breeding, agronomy, plant pathology, entomology and valued-added products as part of its research and development thrust. Also, an additional $20 million is budgeted for the procurement of a seed dryer for Black Bush Polder, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne). This equipment will benefit more than 600 rice farmers in the area.

Additionally, a mini testing mill (polisher) will be acquired to analyse the quality of cargo rice and paddy. In anticipation of expanded production, six drying floors were constructed in Regions Two, Three, Five and Six in 2021. This year, two additional drying floors will be established in Regions Three and Four. Owing to the inputs and plans for this year, the rice industry, as outlined in Budget 2022, could grow by 25.1 per cent, a reversal of the 20.5 per cent decline observed last year. With all the right ingredients for increased production, the next step would be to secure new markets. The country recently acquired markets in the British Virgin Islands, Estonia, and Slovenia. It was reported recently that with rice production back on stream, Guyana has managed to secure a steadier market from its Caribbean sister-country, Barbados. And with rice prices on the rise, Barbados has reached out to its Caribbean Community (CARICOM) counterpart to organise a more stable agreement. Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, had related that Barbados’ request is for the supply of approximately 3,000 tonnes of rice at a slightly reduced cost, for the period November 2021 to December 2022. Although Guyana has been exporting rice to Barbados since 1996, Minister Mustapha said that the two countries have been working tirelessly to strengthen bilateral relations, especially as it relates to trade and investments. The new arrangement, which could possibly be replicated across other sectors, forms part of President Ali’s efforts to increase trade within CARICOM, which will ultimately position Guyana to tap into, and perhaps even reduce the region’s hefty food importation bill. The government is already aiming to supply at least 25 per cent of the region’s imported products within the next four years.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 13, 2022

Two confess to murdering woman –– said they tried to make it look like suicide

TWO men have reportedly confessed to murdering a 48-year-old housewife of Yarrowkabra, Soesdyke/ Linden Highway, who was found hanging from a mango tree in her yard early on

February 9. A post-mortem has confirmed foul play in the death of Edith Reuben. According to a police report, the autopsy which was conducted by govern-

ment pathologist Dr Nehaul Singh on Friday, revealed that she died as a result of asphyxiation due to hanging, compounded by blunt trauma to the head. Following the conclusion

‘Cops’ destroy $115M in marijuana AN intelligence-led operation carried out by ranks from Police Headquarters and Regional Division 10, at Zion, Berbice River, resulted in the destruction of $115M in marijuana. Police Headquarters noted that the exercise was conducted on Friday between 05:20hrs and 18:07hrs; the ranks discovered three fields of marijuana (Cannabis Sativa) on about 40 acres of land. The land, police said, consisted of about 55,000 cannabis plants ranging from one foot to 10 feet in height, about 60 pounds of dried cannabis, six nurseries and five camps. The cannabis plants and camps were destroyed by way of fire. However, no arrest was made. Police confirmed that the estimated street value for the cannabis plants and dried cannabis is $115.8M.

One of the camps that was set ablaze by police

of the autopsy, police secured a High Court approval to further detain and question the two suspects. “Police now say that the two men have confessed to hitting the woman to her head after finding her in a compromising position with another male. They further confessed that when she became unconscious, they placed her to hang from the mango tree to make it look like a suicide,” the police report on Saturday noted. The police had suspected

that the woman was killed before being placed on the tree. “The positioning of the deceased’s body suggests she was murdered and her body placed at the scene,” Police Headquarters reported. Investigators believe she was killed sometime between 00:30hrs and 06:00hrs the day before she was discovered. According to the police, Reuben, her husband and others were drinking alcohol the night before and a male

friend stayed and spent the night at the house of the couple. Reuben was last seen alive at 00:30hrs on her verandah; she was drinking while her husband and the male friend retired to bed. The husband told police that about 04:00hrs, the male friend woke him up and told him he was leaving. The husband said he went back to sleep and woke up two hours later when he made the gruesome discovery.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 13, 2022

Emergency intervention enables 50 per cent reduction of MMA-ADA 2022 subvention

- ‘although D&I, land rental charges were reduced, MMA is earning more because more farmers are paying their fees,’ says Min. Mustapha GOVERNMENT will, in 2022, be able to execute maintenance projects in the Mahaica Mahaicony Abary Agriculture Development Authority (MMA-ADA) at a fraction of what was spent last year. This was disclosed by Agriculture Minister, Zulfi-

kar Mustapha, while responding to questions from the opposition, during the consideration of budget estimates and expenditure last Tuesday morning. The APNU+AFC Government had raised the land rental rates, placing a heavy burden on farmers.

When questioned as to why there was a significant decrease in the Authority’s allocated amount of government funding to execute maintenance works, Minister Mustapha said that the agency was in a better position, financially, to fund some of the projects that form part of

its 2022 work programme. “When we took office in 2020, the entire drainage system in MMA was clogged up. All of the canals were clogged up. The first time I went to Cabinet as Minister, I requested $90 million to carry out emergency works in the MMA scheme. Since then, over 1,500 miles of canals and drains have been cleaned. Added to that, with the reduction in cost for land rentals and drainage and irrigation charges from $15,000 to $3,500 (per acre) the farmers from the MMA scheme have been saving more and paying their fees. This intervention by the government has fostered a better relationship with the farmers, thus resulting in higher revenue collection for the Authority. This is why we are now in a position where we can give less subvention to MMA. Similar to other entities, we are seeing that the MMA is relying less on government subventions because we are getting the buy-in from farmers so that a collaborative effort can be put forward to develop these sectors,” Minister Mustapha said. While elaborating on the achievement of the Authority, Minister Mustapha said that it was important to develop a sound partnership with the beneficiaries in order to enhance the services offered in the scheme. In 2021, $307 million was budgeted under this particular line item, whereas in 2022, only $154 million was sought for the pro-

Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha gramme – representing a 50 per cent reduction. Back in October 2020, the MMA - ADA received $98 million to conduct urgent repairs on its infrastructure, including drainage and dams. The sum catered for the execution of works to clear agricultural land in Region Five (MahaicaBerbice), which consisted of 252 drains. The project benefitted approximately 96,000 acres of rice land in the area and over 2300 farmers, families within the Abary-Berbice and the Mahaica-Mahaicony block. As it relates to land rentals and drainage and irrigation charges, one of the immediate interventions of the government saw farmers

nationwide benefitting from a reduction of their land rental and D&I fees from $15,000 per acre to $3,500 per acre. Following the announcement of the massive increase back in January 2017, farmers took to the street in protest, expressing their dissatisfaction with the decision of the then Minister of Agriculture and the APNU+AFC Government to increase the rental fee from $3500 to $15,000 –a decision which they said was made without any consultation with the farmers or the body which represents them, the Rice Producers’ Association. The MMA-ADA is the largest agriculture-producing scheme in the country.

Flashback! Farmers in 2017 while protesting the increases in land rental and drainage and irrigation charges imposed by the then APNU+AFC Government

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 13, 2022

Over $600k in illegally imported alcohol seized in Reg. 9 THE police in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) on Saturday seized a quantity of illegally imported alcoholic beverages totalling $624,000. Police Headquarters reported that the raid was carried out at the Tabatinga, Central Rupununi houses of a 31-year-old taxi driver and a 54-year-old businessman who are both in police custody.

It is suspected that the items were illegally imported from Brazil. The items seized include 2,004 tins of Itaipava beer; 180 tins of Antarctica beer; 60 tins of Skol Beer; 60 bottles of Blend Seven; 48 bottles of Skarloff Vodka and 12 bottles of Blackstone Rum. The said alcohol and beer were taken to the Lethem Police Station.

Some of the illegally imported alcohol seized by the police

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 13, 2022

Three women die from COVID-19; 65 new cases recorded EVEN as the government continues to implement systems to tackle the deadly COVID-19 disease, three more persons have died from the disease, taking Guyana’s overall death toll to 1,138, the Ministry of Health reported on Saturday. The ministry said that the latest fatalities are three

women; an 80-year-old woman who died on February 10 and a 57-year-old woman who died on February 11 -- both women were from Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice) and were unvaccinated. The remaining fatality is a fully vaccinated 49-yearold woman from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica,

who died on February 12. Meanwhile, there are currently 2,030 active COVID-19 cases in Guyana, following the addition of 65 new cases on February 12, 2022; they were recorded in eight of the 10 administrative regions. Region One recorded five new cases; Region Two re-

corded three new cases; nine new cases were recorded in Region Three. Regions Four and Five recorded 11 cases each; Region Six recorded 17 cases; while Regions Seven and Nine recorded two cases and seven cases each, respectively. The country has now recorded a total of 62,221 cases since March 2020. Of the active cases, 11 persons are in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the National Infectious Dis-

eases Hospital, Liliendaal; 78 are in institutional isolation; 1,927 are in home isolation, and 14 are in institutional quarantine. Many of the persons infected with the virus are said to be asymptomatic, that is, they are not exhibiting symptoms. The updated COVID–19 Emergency Measures are in force until Feb 28, 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, all persons are required to wear face masks when leaving their homes; physical distancing and adequate sanitisation are recommended. Persons with symptoms of COVID-19 are asked to call the COVID-19 hotline numbers: 231-1166; 226-7480; or 180/181 for assistance.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 13, 2022

Tuchel dedicates Chelsea Club World Cup win to Abramovich

Kai Havertz also scored the winner in the Champions League final (BBC) - Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel dedicated his side’s first Club World Cup triumph to owner Roman Abramovich after an extra-time win against Brazilian side Palmeiras. A 117th-minute penalty in Abu Dhabi by Kai Havertz - who also scored their 2021 Champions League winner - means the Blues have now won every possible trophy under the ownership of the Russian billionaire. Romelu Lukaku opened the scoring with a header in the second half before Raphael Veiga levelled from the spot. Palmeiras defender Luan was sent off in added time as the Blues sealed victory. “It is for him, there is no doubt that it is for him,” said Tuchel of Abramovich. “We met quickly on the pitch after the final, he said ‘congratulations’ and I said ‘congratulations, it’s for you, it’s your club and it’s your input and your passion that made this possible’ and I’m happy to be part of it. “So of course the trophy is for him.” Much like in their semi-final win against Al-Hilal, Chelsea dominated possession but struggled to create chances for much of the final in the United Arab Emirates. Their cutting edge looked unlikely to improve when Mason Mount was forced off through injury,

just as he was in their FA Cup tie with Plymouth, while Lukaku continued to cut an isolated figure up front. Palmeiras were content to make the most of their threat on the counter-attack, with the pace of Rony and Dudu stretching the Blues defence, but there were very few clear-cut chances. Then nine minutes after the break, Lukaku made the breakthrough when Callum Hudson-Odoi sent in his first pinpoint cross and the Belgium striker powered a header past Weverton. Christian Pulisic, Mount’s replacement, went close with a shot from distance after a smart lay-off from Lukaku as the English side looked to cement their control. But just past the hour mark, Palmeiras equalised when Thiago Silva was adjudged to have handled in the area and, after a check on the pitch-side monitor, Veiga converted emphatically from 12 yards to send the game into extra time. With a penalty shoot-out looming, Chelsea secured the trophy with a spot-kick of their own. Luan’s handball was also checked on the monitor before Germany playmaker Havertz fired home. Luan was then dismissed for a foul on the match-winner in the final minute, after the referee was told to consult the monitor for a third time.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 13, 2022

Pooran, Holder and Hetmyer land IPL contracts

Jason Holder (left) and Nicholas Pooran (CMC) – West Indies stars Nicholas Pooran, Jason Holder and Shimron Hetmyer have landed lucrative million-dollar deals on the first day of the Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction here yesterday.

The 26-year-old Pooran, a flamboyant left-hander, attracted the highest-ever bid for a West Indies player when Sunrisers Hyderabad paid US$1.43 million for his services. Holder, meanwhile, a for-

mer Test captain and one of the world’s leading all-rounders, was bought by new franchise Lucknow Super Giants for US$1.16 while Hetmyer, an attacking left-hander, was picked up by Rajasthan Royals for US$1.13 million. The trio were among four West Indians sold yesterday, with recently retired marquee all-rounder Dwayne Bravo heading back to Chennai Super Kings for US$585 200. Both Pooran and Holder featured in the three-match OneDay International series against India in Ahmedabad recently when West Indies suffered a 3-0 whitewash, and are also set to line-up in the three-match Twenty20 International series in Kolkata beginning Wednesday. Ironically, Pooran’s deal comes following a wretched

campaign in last year’s IPL when he scraped 85 runs from 11 innings. However, the Trinidadian has averaged 31 and struck two half-centuries in 13 T20 Internationals since then, keeping himself in the crosshairs of global franchises. “I’m very thankful. I can’t wait for that journey to begin,” Pooran said. “But before that journey begins, I just want to give thanks to Cricket West Indies for laying the foundation for my career and I hope a lot of youngsters get that opportunity as well. “Continue to support me in my future endeavours and my cricket career.” Holder was outstanding for Sunrisers last season, leading the franchise with 16 wickets at an average of 15 and an econo-

Shimron Hetmyer my rate of just under eight runs per over. T h e 3 0 - y e a r- o l d a l s o weighed in with the bat at key moments and coupled with his recent performances for West Indies that have yielded 16 wickets from eight appearances at an average of 14, Holder was always expected to attract attention. “I’ve been purchased by Lucknow Super Giants in this year’s IPL auction. I look forward to this opportunity …,” Holder said. The 25-year-old Hetmyer averaged 34 for Delhi Capitals last season and was the shining light for West Indies at last year’s T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates with a superb unbeaten 81 against Sri Lanka. However, the Guyanese has not featured at international level since, missing the tour of Pakistan last December, the series against England in the Caribbean last month and the tour of India earlier this month. The 38-year-old Bravo, who retired from international cricket following the recent T20 World Cup, turned out for CSK last season and grabbed 14 wickets with his medium pace. This year’s IPL bowls off in April. How teams stand at the end of Day 1 Chennai Super Kings: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ambati Rayudu, Moeen Ali, MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Deepak Chahar, Dwayne Bravo, Robin Uthappa, KM Asif, Tushar Deshpande (Players bought: 10. Budget remaining: 20.45 crore. Overseas players: 2) Delhi Capitals: David Warner, Prithvi Shaw, Mitchell Marsh, Rishabh Pant, Sarfaraz Khan, KS Bharat, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Anrich Nortje, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Mustafizur Rahman, Ashwin Hebbar (Players bought: 13. Budget remaining: 16.50 crore. Overseas players: 4) Gujarat Titans: Shubman Gill, Jason Roy, Abhinav Manohar, Hardik Pandya, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Mohammed Shami, Lockie Ferguson, R Sai Kishore, Noor Ahmad

(Players bought: 10. Budget remaining: 18.85 crore. Overseas players: 4) Kolkata Knight Rid ers: Venkatesh Iyer, Nitish Rana, Shreyas Iyer, Sheldon Jackson, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Pat Cummins, Shivam Mavi, Varun Chakravarthy (Players bought: 9. Budget remaining: 12.65 crore. Overseas players: 3) Lucknow Super Giants: KL Rahul, Quinton de Kock, Manish Pandey, Deepak Hooda, Marcus Stoinis, Krunal Pandya, Jason Holder, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Mark Wood, Ankit Rajpoot (Players bought: 11. Budget remaining: 6.90 crore. Overseas players: 4) Mumbai Indians: Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Dewald Brevis, Kieron Pollard, Jasprit Bumrah, M Ashwin, Basil Thampi (Players bought: 8. Budget remaining: 27.85 crore. Overseas players: 2) Punjab Kings: Shikhar Dhawan, Mayank Agarwal, Jonny Bairstow, Jitesh Sharma, Prabhsimran Singh, Shahrukh Khan, Harpreet Brar, Kagiso Rabada, Rahul Chahar, Arshdeep Singh, Ishan Porel (Players bought: 11. Budget remaining: 28.65 crore. Overseas players: 2) Rajasthan Royals: Devdutt Padikkal, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, Jos Buttler, Shimron Hetmyer, Riyan Parag, R. Ashwin, Trent Boult, Yuzvendra Chahal, Prasidh Krishna, KC Cariappa (Players bought: 11. Budget remaining: 12.15 crore. Overseas players: 3) Royal Challengers Bangalore: Faf du Plessis, Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Anuj Rawat, Dinesh Karthik, Shahbaz Ahmed, Wanindu Hasaranga, Harshal Patel, Josh Hazlewood, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep (Players bought: 11. Budget remaining: 9.25 crore. Overseas players: 4) Sunrisers Hyderabad: Abhishek Sharma, Rahul Tripathi, Kane Williamson, Nicholas Pooran, Priyam Garg, Abdul Samad, Washington Sundar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, J Suchith, Shreyas Gopal, Kartik Tyagi, T Natarajan, Umran Malik (Players bought: 13. Budget remaining: 20.15 crore. Overseas players: 2)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 13, 2022

GFF inks deal with Blue Water Shipping for Girls’ U15 Developmental League

BLUE Water Shipping and Guyana Football Federation (GFF) yesterday signed a five-year agreement for the hosting of the country’s first Girls’ U15 Developmental League. At the signing which took place at the Pegasus Hotel, GFF president Wayne Forde announced that the tournament will start in April, featuring teams from across the federation’s member associations and possibly

schools. In August of this year, Guyana will be participating in the CONCACAF U15 Girls’ Championship and, according to Forde, “it is so timely that we are being given the opportunity through the generous sponsorship of Blue Water to launch this developmental league, from which we will be selecting those national team players who will represent the Golden Arrowhead”. “Football is very im-

portant to our community and for a company that prides itself on investing in people, to take that faithful step and announce their presence in Guyana through the investment in young girls, it’s something that we all can admire,” Forde said, before going on to thank the shipping company for its long-term commitment towards the development of women’s football in Guyana. B l u e Wa t e r S h i p ping’s Country Manager,

Punchestown

10:50 hrs Airshow

09:40 hrs Shady Operator

11:20 hrs Flying Instructor

10:10 hrs Ciel De Neige

11:50 hrs So Macho

10:40 hrs The Big Dog

12:20 hrs Tempus

11:10 hrs Largy Debut

12:50 hrs Foreshadow

11:40 hrs The Flier Begley

Exeter

12:10 hrs Golden Cosmos

10:00 hrs Midnight River

12:40 hrsw Blackwater

10:30 hrs Triple Trade

English Racing Tips

11:00 hrs Stage Star

Southwell

11:30 hrs Art Approval

10:40 hrs We All Chomies

09:50 hrs Strike Me A Pose

12:00 hrs Chilli Filli

Irish Racing Tips

10:20 hrs Good To Go

South Africa Racing Tips Scottsville 08:25 hrs Vision Of Will 09:00 hrs Luck Of Iris 09:35 hrs Lady Serena 10:10 hrs Glory Days

12:30 hrs Belami Des Pictons

13:00 hrs Propelled

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Sunday February 13, 2022) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD- 83 Garnett street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Evin Lewis-125* (Kingston, 2017) (2) Rohit Sharma-111* (Lucknow, 2018) Today’s Quiz: (1) What are the best T20 Int’l bowling figures by a WI bowler against IND to date? (2) What are the best bowling figures by an IND bowler in a T20 Int’l against the WI to date? Answers in tomorrow’s issue ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………..

Richard De Nobrega, explained that the company takes great pride in supporting the GFF, adding “anything that brings a community together, especially in Guyana, we know how dear football is to our country. Anything that brings us together and gives young people an opportunity to display their talent, Blue Water is more than happy.” “Sports and football especially are very close

to our company’s culture. We feel very privileged to be part of this initiative, we feel very proud to be doing this in Guyana where we can give young people the opportunity that they might not have had before to be part of a sport that they love, a sport that has been key to Guyana’s development on the sporting arena globally,” De Nobrega said. He said this is the

start of a long partnership between his company and GFF. “We look forward to the talent that this development league will bring. This will be the Launchpad for the selection of a national team for the CONCACAF tournament and for the young ladies who are going to be a part, this is an opportunity for them to showcase themselves to the world.”

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 13, 2022

IGG medallist Dexter ‘Presser’ Joseph to be buried today

By Joe Chapman

ONE of Linden’s greatest swimmers and the first to capture a gold medal for Guyana at the Inter-Guiana Games, Dexter ‘Presser’ Joseph, will be buried in his home community at the Christianburg Cemetery today. Presser died in the United States on January 10. The viewing of the late

Robert Dexter ‘Presser’ Joseph, who grew out of Christianburg, will take place at the Christianburg Community Centre ground, Wismar from 12:30hrs to 13:15hrs. The funeral service will be held from 13:30hrs after which the body will be taken to the Christianburg Cemetery for burial. President of the Guyana Amateur Swimming Asso-

ciation (GASA), Dwayne Scott, said that for the swimming fraternity “it’s a sad situation and it was shared amongst the entire GASA fraternity. We are extremely saddened by his passing.” In its expression of respect for what Joseph had done, GASA in a release acknowledged that Joseph was the first Guyanese swimmer to win an indi-

vidual gold medal at the Inter-Guiana Games. In their tribute GASA stated on behalf of the executives, the clubs and swimming fraternity: “Dexter, who is a Lindener, made massive contributions in the swimming arena during the mid-1970s and early 1980s, when in 1978 he won a gold medal in the 50m freestyle sprint at the Inter-Guiana Games in Suriname. “He swam both individual and relay races and is reported to be the first swimmer to achieve the feat of breaking the one minute time in the 100 yards freestyle sprint. Dexter was also known as Guyana’s best breaststroke swimmer. “Most sincere condolences go to Dexter’s family, relatives, friends and associates who join in this our bereavement period. Rest In Peace, Dexter, your memory and contribution to the swim arena will live on.” Mrs Mary Chung-Phillips, close friend and teammate when they represented Guyana on numerous occasions said, “Growing up in Christianburg, Wismar, Linden, I remember rubbing shoulders with Dexter Joseph from Prep A throughout Standard Four. We even acted in a skit in a Christmas play acting as Mary and Joseph and I said to him, ‘Joseph, I am tired my baby is about to born and Dexter said to me as a child, come on Mary, let’s go to the Inn,’ and so I remember those days as kids when we acted.” In the pool, Chung-Phillips vividly recalled that “in 1975 we started competing together with the Baracuda Swim Club and participated at the Inter-Guianas Games in 1976. We also participated in 1977, 1978 and 1979. And I remember

Dexter won the first individual gold medal in the 100m freestyle event for Guyana. “We also participated in the Caribbean Swimming Championship in Trinidad in 1980 and in the Clubs Championship in Suriname in December 1980. Dexter was a brother to all the swimmers in his time. We remained friends we also did the Bronze Medallion Course with Carl Waterus from Canada and the FINA Coaching Clinic in Georgetown for three weeks in Georgetown and that was in 2000.” Another product of Christianburg during that golden period of the mid1970s and early 1980s was Yvette London-Dublin who noted: “I remember him, he was not a selfish person. He had ability and encouraged us to push hard. I remember when we were preparing for Inter-Guiana Games on the warm-up some guys cheated and I was arguing with the coach. Dexter came to me and said, “Don’t worry with them do the other two laps and it will benefit you. And that was the year when I did exceptionally well. I always remember him for that,” said London-Dublin. Charlie Alexander, another swimmer who was close with the late Joseph back then, said, “We started doing competitive swimming in 1975 at school level where we had a team that went to Nationals in Georgetown and from 1975 to 1981 we never lost any of those championships. We even had inter-club rivalry because we represented the YMCA through the Baracuda Swim Club. “Apart from Nationals, we always won the inter-club competitions and always dominating. There were times when we won gold, silver and bronze

medals in every age groups at inter-club at Luckhoo Pool...We also dominated the river swims. But Dexter was always outstanding especially as a sprinter. He had extraordinary hand speed. Canada-based former National swimmer Mrs Grace Yhap-Roberts said “Dexter was like a big brother to my sister (Audrey) and me. He guided us in many aspects of our early years, not only ensuring that we swam straight in the narrow lanes of the pool, but also ensuring that we kept in the straight and narrow paths of life. He always had our backs and many would share the same sentiments. “Dexter was an outstanding athlete, popular, very competitive and loved by his teammates and competitors. He was known as an exceptional person: warm, funny and kind. His sudden passing is a huge loss to the sport, his family, friends and the town of Linden; specifically Christianburg. Rest In Peace, Dexter!” Another former National swimmer, Roger Harris, who resides in Canada in his tribute said “I remember him and Peter McLintock coming from Linden to swim as I lived in Georgetown at the time. In those days in the 1970s we even represented Guyana. “I remember him being a very good and excellent swimmer who had great technique in the pool. On the personality side he was very competitive but at the same time he was an agreeable personality very approachable and someone you can easily get along with. The swimmers today with all the facilities at their disposal would have stood on the shoulders of people like Dexter.”

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 13, 2022

Harpy Eagles sneak one-wicket victory over Volcanoes

GUYANA Harpy Eagles edged Windward Islands Volcanoes by one-wicket in a tense victory on the final day of their Four-Day match at the Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad. Scores: Volcanoes 339 (Preston McSween 86, Alick Athanaze 68, Devon Smith 52; Gudakesh Motie 4-62, Keemo Paul 3-83, Ve e r a s a m m y P e r m a u l 3-88) and 190 (Athanaze 58, Larry Edward 43; Permaul 5-53, Paul 2-30, Clinton Pestano 2-35) v Eagles 327 (Vishaul Singh 93, Paul 73, Tagenarine

Chanderpaul 30; Kenneth Dember 4-36, Shermon Lewis 4-59, McSween 2-78) and 203-9 (Chandrapaul Hemraj 60, Chanderpaul 28; Demeber 5-80, Edward 3-11) The win means Eagles join defending champions Barbados Pride and Trinidad & Tobago Red Force as first-round winners. Eagles were set 203, after they bowled out Volcanoes for 190 in their second innings, led by Veerasammy Permaul (553) and Keemo Paul (230) and Clinton Pestano (2-35).

Archery Guyana successfully conducts PVC bow-making seminar with School of the Nations

Volcanoes had resumed the day 157-7 and Permaul was the one who cleaned up the tail. Left-arm spinner Larry Edwards made 43. Eagles, in response, got a solid start with an opening stand of 89, led by Chandrapaul Hemraj (60) and Tagenarine Chanderpaul (28). However, they slipped to 140-6 then 183-9 but Permaul guided them home with an unbeaten 20. Eagles will now face Leeward Islands Hurricanes from Wednesday at the Oval.

SCOREBOARD VOLCANOES 1st innings 339 HARPY EAGLES 1st innings 327 VOLCANOES 2nd innings (overnight 157 for seven) T. Bishop c Vishaul b Paul 15 DS Smith b Smith 0 K. Hodge lbw b Paul 15 A. Athanaze c Hetmyer b Permaul 58 K. Cottoy c Paul b Pestano 12 DDH Smith b Pestano 4 R. John lbw b Permaul 11 L. Edward c Hetmyer b Permaul 43 K. Dember c wkp. Bramble b Permaul 14 P. McSween c Johnson b Permaul 11 S. Lewis not out 0 Extras: (N/A) 7 Total: (all out, 63.1 overs) 190 Fall of wickets: 1-6, 2-20, 3-48, 4-71, 5-77, 6-112, 7-125, 8-173, 9-190. Bowling: Paul 10-3-30-2, Smith 11-3-44-1, Pestano 9-1-35-2, Permaul 24.1-6-53-5, Motie 6-2-21-0, Chanderpaul 3-1-2-0. HARPY EAGLES 2nd innings (Target: 203 runs) T. Chanderpaul c Bishop b Dember 28 C. Hemraj c Edwards b Dember 60 S. Hetmyer c DS Smith b Dember 9 L. Johnson b McSween 21 Vishaul Singh c Cottoy b Edwards 24 A. Bramble c McSween b Dember 7 K. Paul c & b Dember 0 C. Pestano c McSween b Edwards 20 V. Permaul not out 20 G. Motie c Athanaze b Edwards 3 N. Smith not out 4 Extras: (N/A) 7 Total: (9 wkts, 69.3 overs) 203 Fall of wickets: 1-89, 2-94, 3-110, 4-124, 5-139, 6-140, 7-168, 8-179, 9-183. Bowling: McSween 17-4-38-1, Lewis 4-0-30-0, John 10-0-39-0, Dember 29.3-1-80-5, Edward 8-3-11-3, Hodge 1-0-2-0.

Archery Guyana’s Nicholas Hing (centre) during the workshop AS it continues to develop learn how a simple PVC pipe and Mathematics and Physics the sport of archery locally, could be transformed into a teacher, Stefan Farier, who Archery Guyana conducted bow capable of teaching the also documented the event a three-day PVC bow-mak- sport of Olympic recurve with video photography and ing seminar with students archery. interviews for the school. from School of the Nations. This is the same type of At the end of the seminar, It concluded last weekend. bow-building seminar that the students were introduced This was in keeping with was conducted with Archery to the actual use of the bow an agreement to jump-start Guyana by World Archery as they were taught the basics archery in the school, which Americas coach Diego Torres of archery. formed the first archery club in 2015. The school’s archery in the country, in August The seminar was con- club will now organise 2021. ducted by Archery Guyana’s practice days and times The enthusiasm shown by head coach, Nicholas Hing, with its student members the students and parents was with assistance of School of and Archery Guyana’s overwhelming and hearten- the Nations’ Physical Educa- coaches will help with their ing. They were excited to tion teacher, Kenrick Cheeks, development in the sport.

Police score 90-7 on rain-hit day one … No play between Everest and DCC

THE Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) would be hoping for a full day’s play today as they have the Guyana Police Force (GPF) on the ropes after the first day of their First-Division TwoDay semi-final at Bourda. GPF reached stumps 90-7 on a rain-hit day when only 24 overs were possible. National player Ronaldo Alimohamed has so far taken 3-23 in an aggressive spell of medium-pace bowling while left-arm spinner Devon Lord (2-6) and Stefon Wilson

(2-28) are also among the wickets. Pernell London (20) and skipper Kevon Boodie (18) offered early fight but GPF would still feel they can get a competitive total as the powerful Quintin Sampson is unbeaten on 24 (2x4; 2x6) along with Kelvin Leitch who is yet to score. At the Everest Cricket Club (ECC), no play was possible between the hosts and the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) because of a wet patch on the pitch.

Ronaldo Alimohamed

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 13, 2022

GFF inks deal with Blue Water Shipping for Girls’ U15 Developmental League SEE PAGE

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GFF president Wayne Forde and Blue Water Shipping Country Manager Richard De Nobrega complete signing of MoU to create Guyana’s first U15 league for girls

Harpy Eagles sneak Pooran, Holder and Hetmyer one-wicket victory land IPL contracts 36 over Volcanoes SEE PAGE

SEE PAGE

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Veerasammy Permaul took 5-53 and scored a crucial 20 not out, which led Guyana Harpy Eagles to victory

Shimron Hetmyer

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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2022