Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_18_09_2021

SATURDAY 18th September, 2021

' No.106488

High Court scuttles trade unions’ plans to prevent implementation of COVID-19 measures

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$1.6B in flood relief distributed across Region Five

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250 housing units at Prospect to be completed by January 2022 05 PAGE

Thousands of residents in various communities across the Mahaica-Berbice region received their flood-relief grants on Friday

National Risk Management President Ali, Mexico’s Policy targets disruptions President discuss 10 to education delivery 02 areas of co-operation PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 18, 2021

National Risk Management Policy targets disruptions to education delivery – institutions to be strengthened to guard against crises, says Dr. Hutson

By Naomi Parris

THE Ministry of Education has launched a National Risk Management Policy to target current and potential disruptions to the delivery of education across the country, by strengthening the capacity of local institutions.

Speaking during the launch of the new policy at the National Centre for Education Resource Development (NCERD),

Chief Education Officer (CEO), Dr. Marcel Hutson, said that the Education Ministry has rolled out several measures to enhance its capacity to mitigate vulnerabilities and improve the resilience of communities by developing tools for disaster risk management.

The national policy, according to Dr. Hutson, focuses on three key aspects: access, quality and management.

He further related that

the policy aims to ensure that there is equitable access to education, and it is tailored to promote a safe and protective learning environment for all.

An environment for all includes a space in the education systems for the migrant population in Guyana. To this end, the policy caters to the needs of the migrant population and establishes the grounds for them to have a right to continue educating themselves irrespective

Chief Education Officer (CEO), Dr. Marcel Hutson (Delano Williams Photos)

Resident United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Representative, Nicholas Pron

of their legal migration status.

“The Government of Guyana has brought relief to our people in the past, we recognised how important it is to ensure systems are in place for the continuity of the education of our children,” Dr. Hutson said.

Fundamentally, he said that the plan is to alleviate, if not eradicate, all issues that stymie the advancement of the education system.

“We recognise that in order to face crisis in the future, it is essential for the Ministry of Education to have a sufficient institutional, organisational and individual capacity to cater to such problems at the central and regional levels,” Dr. Hutson related.

The policy was crafted with inputs from international partners such as

the United Nations, local partners and the regional education officers from all 11 education districts.

The collaborative approach, Dr. Hutson said, was critical since the policy garnered buy-in from those stakeholders who will be responsible for its implementation.

An example of Guyana’s ability to manage education amidst a crisis is the authorities’ response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the effects it has had on the delivery of education. In Dr. Hutson’s view, the effects of the pandemic and the physical closure of schools brought the best out of the Education Ministry.

“We have a plan and we trust that this plan will be helpful when or if this nation finds itself in such situations again,” the Chief Education Officer

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) liaison to Guyana, Cecille Guerrero said.

Resident United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Representative, Nicholas Pron, said: “UNICEF shares the pride of the ministry and is pleased that the ministry has selected our organisation to work side by side.”

Pron added that the policy will increase the ministry’s ability to predict, prepare and prevent crisis. He noted too that the policy also establishes procedures to recognise the impact of disasters and how to cope with the results.

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) liaison to Guyana, Cecille Guerrero, said too that the policy acknowledges the challenges faced in reaching children in the hinterland regions of the country.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 18, 2021

$1.6B in flood relief distributed across Region Five

IN excess of 6,000 farmers and households across Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) received their flood-relief grants on Friday, at seven distribution centres set up throughout the region.

Leading the charge was Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, who spearheaded the distribution exercises at Seafield, Onverwagt and Bush Lot, all on the West Coast Berbice.

Speaking to farmers at the Mahaica, Mahaicony, Abary - Agricultural Development Authority (MMA-ADA) compound at Onverwagt, Minister Mustapha said that the Ma-

Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, presenting farmers with their flood-relief cheques at Bush Lot village, West Coast Berbice of the first set of persons to receive his cheques at the MMA-ADA distribution site.

He told the Guyana Chronicle that when the floods hit, it not only resulted in the loss of cash crops and livestock, but also in damage to the bottom flat of his home.

“It was a really hard thing to go through,” Sealey reflected.

The farmer, who re-

Farmer Anita Sammy haica-Berbice district was among the most affected by the May 2021 floods, which devastated some 52,000 households within 300 communities, as well as thousands of acres of farmlands.

“It also had one of the largest payouts,” Minister Mustapha noted.

He highlighted, too, that of the overall $7.8 billion allocated to the flood-relief programme, some $1.6 billion was being paid out to citizens in Region Five alone. Residents and farmers of the MMA-ADA district, alone, benefited from the distribution of $157 million.

“This region is one of the most important regions

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in terms of agriculture,” Minister Mustapha said.

He said that while residents could not be compensated for the devastation and losses that the floods brought, the government is hoping that the grants would assist farmers in returning to the fields, and recommencing productive activities.

“This is not a compensation that we are giving; this is a relief. This is a relief that we are giving to you the farmers, and we want you to go back to the land as quickly as possible,” the minister related.

It would appear as though farmers are also eager to return to productivity, and restart their businesses. This is the case for Vibert Sealey, who was one

Farmer Vibert Sealey ceived a cheque from the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) of the Ministry of Agriculture, expressed appreciation to Minister Mustapha and the Government of Guyana for

recognising the plight of farmers, and assisting those affected in getting back on their feet.

“I didn’t get to go back to the farm and so, but I will go back now,” Sealey related.

Also at the MMA-ADA district was rice and livestock farmer, Anita Sammy, who was all smiles as she collected her cheque.

Her smile soon turned upside down, as she reflected on the damage that the floods have caused her and her family.

“It was really bad fuh we; we does mind cow, and sheep and duck and suh,” Sammy said, adding: “This year, we nah guh mek nothin’, because everything dead out.”

She said that while her house was spared the contaminated floodwaters, her son’s wasn’t. “He yard was real duck-out; garden, everything was duck-out fuh he,” Sammy said.

Asked how her family has managed to recuperate, the woman’s response was, “By the Grace of God!” Looking back, she said: “We really thankful fuh the weather; the water gone, and we trying fuh get back to normal.”

She said that the government’s flood-relief money will greatly assist the

family with the purchase of a “fresh crop of livestock”, and in repairing the requisite infrastructure that were damaged in the floods.

Also collecting his cheque was rice farmer Afzal Basalat, who said that even though the floods almost crippled his livelihood, he was relieved

by President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s Emancipation Day announcement, which outlined the various categories of persons who will be benefiting from the government’s flood-relief grants.

“Long ah went waiting; ah went going all the time to see if ah get it. After all, ah get it today, and I very happy about it,” the young farmer said.

He said that even though he has suffered much losses as a livestock farmer, it was his rice field that was ravaged the most by the floodwaters.

“Me does mind sheep and goat; all de sheep dem get foot rot, due to the weather. And most ah dem dying out and all, because, after dem get the foot rot, dem nah able walk,” Basalat related.

Now that he has received the long-awaited assistance, Basalat is eager to prepare for the next crop, in the hope that the rains will “behave”.

Over at Bush Lot Village, Lenox Cambridge is also enthusiastic about his return to the farmlands.

Although the loss of his “layers” is significant, Cambridge said that he did not expect the government to come to his assistance.

“I really didn’t know that they woulda do this here, suh I really very thankful,” the West Coast Berbice resident said, adding: “Now that I get this here, I guh be able to buy back me li’l livestock.”

Aside from his livestock farm, Cambridge’s home was also flooded out.

“It was tough; all we coulda do was clean out the place and throw way the things that damage,” the farmer related.

At Mortice and Karamat villages in Branch Road, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat was leading the distribution teams. And, at Dundee, Mahaicony, Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill was overseeing the distribution efforts there.

In addition to the ministers and technical teams, the distribution of all monies in relation to the flood-relief programme are being audited on-thespot. (Rehana Ahamad)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 18, 2021

High Court scuttles trade unions’ plans to prevent implementation of COVID-19 measures

THREE of the country’s major trade unions have lost their bid to secure interim injunctions to restrain the implementation of the government’s COVID-19 vaccination requirements.

High Court Judge, Fidela Corbin-Lincoln on Friday refused to grant the injunctions prayed for by the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU), Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) and their umbrella body, the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC.) The Unions have asked the court to grant them injunctions preventing the State from implementing the vaccination requirements, and ordering the government to stand the cost of regular COVID-19 testing for all public servants.

In her ruling, the judge was at pains to explain

that although the Court has jurisdiction to grant the injunctions at reference, it is in the public’s best interest not to do so, since it would be preventing the government from doing what it must to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus here.

“The world has been severely impacted by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic; governments throughout the world have employed various measures to contain and reduce the spread of the virus. These measures include mandatory lockdowns, quarantines, curfews, and mask-wearing.The introduction of vaccines is the most recent effort to address the COVID-19 pandemic.

The court is not deaf to the debate raging around the world, with respect to the ethicality and effec-

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, S.C. calling for them to be quashed.

The State is being represented by Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C, and GPSU’s Dawn Gardner, GTU’s Coretta McDonald, and GTUC’s Lincoln Lewis the Unions by Attorneys-at-Law Dane Eltiveness of the vaccine; fix” to the situation, she measures back in March liott-Hamilton and Darthe legality of mandatory prefers that such issues 2020, and are therefore ren Wade. vaccine requirements is a are fully ventilated when reasonable infringement the substantive matter is of constitutional rights. heard.

These matters are still to Speaking of substanbe tested in court,” Justice tive matters, which, in Corbin-Lincoln said in her this case, is the Fixed Date ruling.

Application (FDA) chalAs she went on to say, lenging the government’s while everything seems to COVID-19 emergency suggest that vaccine hesi- measures, that case is exAFTER two days of protests over the shooting tancy is a big issue here in pected to be heard, at a death of Essequibo businessman, Orin Boston, Guyana, the government date yet to be fixed, before police have managed to quell the situation at is doing everything it pos- another judge.

Dartmouth and remove debris from the road to sibly can to keep the virus In their applications, at bay, by implementing GPSU Vice-President allow for the free flow of traffic. such measures as asking D a w n G a r d n e r , G T U Speaking with reporters, Divisional Commander, persons to show proof of General Secretary Coretta Denise Griffith, said that after two days of engaging vaccination or a negative McDonald and General frustrated residents, the police have managed to get PCR result before entering Secretary of the GTUC, them to comply and cease protest actions. a public building.

Lincoln Lewis are all Additionally, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has Among other things claiming that former Pres-

Police remove debris from road at Dartmouth

the judge said was that while granting the interim injunctions would have been just a “temporary

ident David Granger had exceeded his authority when he issued the first COVID-19 emergency

Saturday, 18 September 13:30hrs - 15:00hrs

The road at Dartmouth being cleared to allow for the free flow of traffic partnered with the Regional Democratic Council of Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) to clear debris from the roadway.

The bridge at Dartmouth was blocked to vehicular traffic for two days after the death of Boston, who was shot by a member of the GPF’s SWAT team during a police operation.

The autopsy performed on Boston showed that he died as a result of haemorrhage and shock from the gunshot injury he received to his chest. A single warhead was extracted from the businessman’s body.

Acting Commissioner of Police, Nigel Hoppie, during a press conference on Wednesday, had said that the matter is being investigated by the Office for Professional Responsibility, and the rank that fired the shot is under close arrest.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday September 18, 2021

250 housing units at Prospect to be completed by January 2022 CONSTRUCTION of the first 50 low-income units and 200 young professional housing units at Prospect, East Bank Demerara, is progressing as planned and is expected to meet the January 2022 deadline.

At the end of September 16, 2021, works on the low-income units were 36 per cent completed, while works on the young professional homes were at different stages of construction.

Early this year, a contract was signed between the Ministry of Housing and Water through the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) and Gafoor’s Limited for the construction of 100 low-income, two-bedroom flat units.

The units each measuring 600 sq. ft. carries a total cost of $5.5 million inclusive of the cost for the land which $300,000.

Work on the remaining 50 low-income units is expected to commence shortly.

Additionally, another 11 contractors were award-

ed contracts for the construction of 200 young professional houses.

The contractors are Aronco, Tricon, Synergy Global, Total Energy Solution, Shairaj Roshandeen, Builder’s Hardware-General Supplies and Construction, Modern Building Solutions, First Change Builders, Guyland Holdings Inc. and RK Concrete Guyana Inc. The young professional, single flat units will be sold at a price of $13.9 million inclusive of the cost for the land which $1 million.

These units each sport three bedrooms, of which one is self-contained. The second option, a two-storey, three-bedroom young professional unit carries a price of $19.9 million inclusive of the cost for the land which is $1 million.

On Friday, Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, visited the location where he inspected the ongoing works. After observing what was done, he expressed his satisfaction at the pace at which the works are progressing, es-

pecially with the contractors committing to meet the January 2022 deadline.

“At this site alone, we have approximately 650 skilled and semi-skilled workers, so we are creating employment as we forge ahead with our housing drive,” he said.

Minister Croal added that already, the ministry has spent approximately $1 billion on the first phase of infrastructure which includes water, electrical and road networks.

Speaking on the beneficiary selection process, he said that applicants who had expressed an interest in housing units dating back to the 2013 were contacted and sent to be prequalified at a banking institution of their choice.

This, the minister said, allowed for a fair and transparent allocation process.

Minister Croal related: “Clearly this also shows that we give people options, they can decide if a land is a better option or, if they so desire, a housing unit is offered to them. We do not impose on any applicant; they are

Contractors working to complete the housing units at Prospect, East Bank Demerara

free to accept or reject an offer.”

The construction of these units is a part of the national housing drive to deliver 10,000 allocations annually.

Already, the Ministry of Housing, through its flagship “Dream Realised” housing drive, has allocated some 7,000 house lots, even as construction on another 190 single elevated units is ongoing at Cummings Lodge.

Also, construction on another 40 single elevated units is progressing as planned in Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, being briefed on the progress of construction at the Amelia’s Ward, Linden, Prospect, East Bank Demerara, housing site Region 10.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 18, 2021

Democracy the basis of rule THE United Nations General Assembly has designated September 15 as the International Day of Democracy.

The intention behind that decision was to promote and uphold the principles of democracy as the basis for rule and governance.

The theme for this year’s observance is ‘Strengthening democratic resilience in the face of future crisis’.

According to the United Nations, International Day of Democracy provides an opportunity to review the state of democracy in the world. Democracy, it noted, is as much a process as it is a goal and only with the full participation of the international community can the ideal of democracy be made into a reality.

The truth is that freedom and respect for human rights are integrally linked with democracy and the rule of law.

There can be no genuine freedom without democracy, defined to mean the rule of the majority in certified free and fair elections and elections free from fear.

We have come a far way in terms of democratic rule since the days of rigged elections but our democracy still remains fragile as was seen when the APNU+AFC Coalition attempted to subvert the democratic will of the Guyanese people during the March 2, 2020 General and Regional elections. Despite the fact that the results of the elections

were validated by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and the international community, the Coalition still continues to peddle a false narrative of being cheated out of power. Its continuing refusal to accept the PPP/C administration as the legitimate and duly elected government is all the more repugnant given the fact that despite several counts and recounts there existed no credible evidence of electoral malpractice.

Contrary to what is being parroted by the ‘PNC+AFC’ Coalition and its cohorts, the PPP/C is not an ‘installed regime” but one that is democratically elected in free and fair elections. These elections, as stated before, were not only free and fair but were so recognised by the entire international community.

Indeed, Guyana is today a respected member in the community of democratic nations and any attempt to project a contrary image is not only hypocritical but an affront to the values of the democratic world and to all those who cherish the ideals of democracy.

Admittedly, there is no such thing as a perfect democracy. But in the present circumstances of our political culture, there is no substitute for the principle of ‘one man, one vote’ which over the centuries has always been the defining characteristic of democratic rule and for that matter the preferred and globally

acceptable basis for governance. Democracy can be particularly challenging in diverse societies such as ours but until we can come up with a better alternative, it is incumbent on us all to play by the democratic rules as enshrined in our Constitution.

One critical ingredient in the quest for a more inclusive and participatory a touch of class form of governance is that element of trust. Regrettably, the APNU+AFC Coalition, by continuing to deny the reality of its defeat at the last polls is in fact making a political statement, namely, that it is unprepared to play by the democratic rules.

That is not the best way of helping to create that climate of trust which is so badly necessary to move forward as a politically stable and cohesive society.

This, however, does not detract from the imperative of seeking new ways to deepen our democracy and in the process allow for a more inclusive society. The PPP/C administration has repeatedly stated its desire to have a governance model based on the principles of inclusivity. However, such commitments have been largely ignored and scoffed upon by the political opposition which seems bent on pursuing a course of adversarial politics.

Yet the search for a political solution

within the framework of our democracy cannot be put on hold. As President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali noted in his statement on International Day of Democracy, any threat to free and fair elections represent an assault on democracy.

As Guyanese, we all have a duty and responsibility to zealously guard our democracy.

The President took the opportunity to again applaud all those, both at home and abroad, who stood by Guyana during that difficult period when our democracy was under siege by the APNU+AFC Coalition.

For democracy to flourish, all hands have to come on board: civil society, religious bodies, trade unions and by no means least, our political leaders.

The President has already signalled his intention to reach out to all stakeholders. It is now for the political opposition to turn a new page and play by the democratic rules.

The international community is today less tolerant of those who seek to obtain power other than through the democratic will of the people. This fact has been demonstrated in no uncertain terms during the March 2, 2020 General and Regional elections.

The APNU+AFC Coalition by its recent actions seem impervious to this fundamental truth.

APNU+AFC must sanction Sherod Duncan

Dear Editor,

HELP & Shelter condemns the video disseminated by Member of Parliament, Mr. Sherod Duncan, and calls for its immediate removal, investigation and sanction of Mr. Sherod Duncan for choosing to disseminate material which is distasteful, verbally insulting, demeaning and disrespectful not only to the Minister of Education

but to all women of Guyana.

We also call on APNU+AFC to take immediate action to also sanction this sitting Member of Parliament. We further call on the National Assembly and Parliament of Guyana to ensure a comprehensive code of conduct is disseminated to each and every parliamentarian with appropriate sanctions for breaches of such a code without fear or favour in and out of Parliament.

As all of us should know, Guyana has one of the highest levels of domestic violence globally, a crime and human rights violation which is rooted in gender inequality, the subordination of women, discrimination and norms and practices detrimental to the advancement of women’s rights, dignity and status.

Help & Shelter would like parliamentarians of all genders, persons in positions of authority and decision

makers to understand that such behaviour is unacceptable and reflects how far Guyana still has to go towards the full emancipation and respect of women of every ethnicity in Guyana.

Best regards, Danuta Radzik Josephine Whitehead Pamela Nauth for Help & Shelter

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 18, 2021

Ramayya’s deportment contributed to his zig-zag tenure in office Dear Editor, I AM not in the least shocked or disappointed when I read an article captioned, ‘Ramayya resigns as President’s coordinator in Region Six’.

By now everyone should know that this man is smitten with the megalomaniac syndrome and will only be satisfied when he has and can wield that control over people, in this case the Region Six officials. I could vividly recall that in August 2016 all the media houses reported that, ‘Ramayya resigns as Region Six REO’. I also recall that he resigned two times from the AFC and another caption had read, ‘Ramayya quits AFC again’. If I could recall his threats to resign were numerous and he used those as his bargaining tool. He was given the REO post when he threatened to quit the AFC after the 2015 Elections and I am sure that’s his strategy again. You cannot teach old dogs new tricks.

Let’s analyse his resignation as REO in 2016 and the reasons he cited. He claimed that he cannot work with the region’s officials because they are ‘corrupted’, but the facts speak differently. Almost every month at the RDC meeting he was met with ‘no confidence motions’ against him and even his own coalition councillors expressed disappointment with his performance. Some even said openly that he was not qualified for the job. Inside sources from the AFC said that he detested the fact that he had to report on a weekly basis to the former Prime Minister, Mr. Moses Nagamootoo. He claimed that all his ‘complaints fell on deaf ears’ and he was insulted.

Let’s now look at this resignation from the AFC. He said to the media that, “he got tired” of the way problems reported to senior government officials were handled. He also cited failed promises by the coalition.

But the fact was that he was under intense pressure as the REO so he decided to jump ship. He even used his old line that the AFC owed him monies he used during the 2015 campaign trail. This would have opened up

a place for him with the PPP/C and this was exactly what he did close to the 2020 Elections. Having denied the freedom do what he wanted, he sought relevance elsewhere since he was aware that he was one of the most disliked politicians in Region Six. Others would have included his erstwhile colleagues, Nagamootoo and Ramjattan.

Let’s now look at the reasons for his current resignation. I t is no secret by now that Ramayya hates to report to anyone whom he deems to be better than. He claims that he has been ‘insulted by a senior government official and was unable to work with regional officials’.

This sure rings a bell. In 2016 he had claimed that he was insulted by Nagamootoo and other AFC and regional officials. And once again he had money problems. He claimed that he was not paid since January this year but he was appointed on February 2021. I could recall that Ramjattan had said in 2016 that the AFC did not owe Ramayya a ‘dime’.

Again his shortcoming is highlighted since he did not submit a single report to the Regional Chairman and the Office of the President, contrary to his contract. He never wanted to submit written reports to Nagamootoo. True to form he now cites ‘dirty game’ and ‘too much deceit… and wrongs things being done in the Region’.

I am wondering if Ramayya has evidence of such a ‘dirty game’ and ‘wrong doings’ why does he not provide these to the President or even publicise these? Ramayya always peddled gossips as facts and never tried to ensure the veracity of his source. He swallows everything: ‘hook, line and sinker’.

As a man who wants to lead he needs to be able to follow a verification process before he makes his generalised conclusions publicly.

He should understand that he cannot go on television and Facebook and lambast his colleagues based on gossip. There is a protocol involved and he must observe and respect that and cannot act outside of that. He cannot operate on his whims and fancies and make

I admire Ronald Bostwick’s letter Dear Editor, PERMIT me to say how much I admire Ronald Bostwick’s letter (KN September, 15) on the issue of the COVID–19 vaccine; “Certain rights are limitable because they conflict with the constitutional right to life itself.”

His English is impeccable. More importantly, he marshals the facts and the law - and his logic, arguments and conclusions are unassailable. His is a very clear mind.

Ronald and I have been out of touch for many years, but we way go back. We were in a circle of boyhood friends. It was more than friendship - there was a ‘family feeling’.

His mom and dad were class acts. I recall us setting up “Scalextric” tracks in his home in Kitty, to race little electric cars.

The Peroune brothers were there also.

Kudos Ronald!

Yours faithfully, Sieyf Shahabuddeen

irresponsible statements.

Ramayya hates to be a follower and it is time that he tries running for the presidency. I am wondering if that will quench

his insatiable thirst for power.

Yours sincerely, Alfred Sewchand

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 18, 2021

PNC/R sets timeframe for holding of long-overdue Congress

DESPITE the absence of its substantive leader, David Granger, the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R) has decided on a timeframe for the holding of its long-overdue 22nd Biennial Congress.

Acting Leader of the PNC/R, Volda Lawrence announced on Friday that the party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC) has decided that the Congress will be held on a date between November and December 13, 2021.

Lawrence has been occupying the position of Party Leader since the former President Granger proceeded on an indefinite leave of absence with effect from September 1, 2021 to focus on his health.

“The consideration for this period is linked to the Thanksgiving weekend in

the USA, which is a special occasion for our members living in the United States.

The Congress will be for delegates only, decentralised, and hybrid,” Lawrence said.

The Congress will be conducted over a one-day period at various “congress houses” in the respective administrative regions across Guyana.

Lawrence said: “The Congress will be conducted in a manner that will not bring any issues that are within the name of the persons who are in control of that specific region or congress house. “… Those leadership structures will kick in on that day and prior to that, and it will be their responsibility to ensure that the process is carried out in a smooth and transparent manner.”

Lawrence said that the

next step is for the Central Executive Committee of the PNC/R to establish the Congress Committee which will set up various administrative committees before the exact dates for the Congress are be finalised.

“At our next CEC meeting, we propose to deal with the setting up of the Congress Committee, which should be in another week’s time, and then that committee will carry out the mandate that is imposed on it by the leadership of the party,” Lawrence said.

“I am certain that the Logistic Committee, when put in place, will ensure that as far as possible they seek to have all voting stations prepared in a manner that will bring as little as no hiccups as possible,” she added.

So far, former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Water Incorporated

(GWI), Dr. Richard Van West-Charles, and political activist, Aubrey Norton, have officially announced their intention to run for leader of the party.

With regards to joining the race, Lawrence, the party’s Chairperson, said she is awaiting the nominations, and that based on those nominations, she will make

a decision. Speculation is rife that Lawrence was sidelined for leadership of the PNC/R. However, Lawrence has refuted those claims, saying that she has her “own personal challenges” to deal with, which has led to her taking time away from the political arena, so as to address them.

Acting Leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R), Volda Lawrence

Region Five rejects PNC shutdown call

Dear Editor,

PLEASE permit me a space in your letter section of your newspapers to say a little on the above.

The PNC and I say PNC because we all know that APNU is PNC and AFC is PNC, had been making some calls to shut down some of the regions and by extension Guyana on the whole for their selfish political purposes and gain.

Their call was to shut down the region on Monday 6 and Monday 13 September, 2021.

They asked the many businesses to shut their doors, public transportation not to work, workers not to turn out for work, etc.

I traversed the entire Region Five, that is from Ithaca to Mahaica and business places were open as usual. People were at work, public transportation was at work be it private or public sector and teachers were at

school, etc.

I deliberately stop in villages that are said to be the stronghold of the PNC, that is Central Mahaicony, Belladrum, No.41, Litchfield, Yeoville, No.30, Hopetown, No.5, Rosignol and Ithaca, almost all of the business places in those villages were open for business.

I can clearly and safely say that even the PNC supporters reject their call to shut down the region.

The entire Region Five rejected the PNC’s call and seems that in and everything onward that is being done or called for by the PNC will be rejected because they only play racism in their politics.

Thank you Region Five for rejecting the PNC’s call.

Yours Sincerely, Abel Seetaram Former RDC councilor Region Five

Automatic deduction of GTU dues from teachers’ salaries should stop

Dear Editor,

AS someone with a lot of friends in the teaching fraternity, I feel compelled to echo some of the concerns raised by teachers with whom I am close.

Many of these very teachers are afraid to speak out themselves because they fear being targeted by some in the GTU’s leadership. It is, for this reason, I feel compelled to bring these matters to the attention of the public and those in authority so that they can be addressed.

During the course of the week, I met up with about 10 of my friends in the teaching profession and we had conversations about the ongoing issues with the GTU. One of the things that they all related was that they want the automatic deduction of union dues from their salaries to be stopped. However, they expressed concerns over the fact that if they were to make this known to the GTU, their names might end up on “In The Ring” and they might suffer attacks similar to those meted out to the Minister of Education.

My friends in the teaching profession are of the view that the GTU, in its current configuration, is not working in the interest of teachers and this is in spite of them collections millions of dollars in union dues which are deducted out of their salaries. They related the absence of support from the union on issues related to their welfare and their ability to cope with the economic and other challenges brought on by the pandemic. They contrasted this against the support received from the government and said that there is a great disparity between the two even though the union collects millions of dollars in union dues.

Many of the views expressed I agree with as I believe that the GTU has become political and is operating as an extension of the APNU+AFC. I can clearly see where many teachers are coming from when they say they want the automatic deduction of union dues to be stopped.

Yours sincerely, Thomas Cole

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 18, 2021

Health Minister: Businesses must enforce COVID-19 measures

MINISTER of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, has appealed to local businesses to enforce the gazetted COVID-19 guidelines.

During Thursday’s COVID-19 update, the Health Minister said ensuring adherence is everyone’s responsibility.

“This thing is not about government alone, this is about everybody working together to make sure all of us are safe, if we don’t do that, what we will end up with is that numbers will continue to increase

and we will see more cases of hospitalisation and more cases of death.

“This is in our hands to control, but that control has to do with our behaviour and adherence to these measures, if we fail to do that then the consequences are going to be the increase in cases, hospitalisation and deaths… it’s self-evident, we have to really start waking up,” Minister Anthony related.

The Health Minister noted that those responsibilities also fall on busi-

ness owners and operators.

“These various business entities whether they want to have any event with people, they should work along with the Task Force so that those measures can be put in place.

“Right now, we have put certain measures, for example if you are coming into a business premises you have to show your vaccination card and really, we have to get the business owners to enforce these things, if they don’t want to enforce it, then in the end all of us would suf-

Man who tried to flee Guyana charged for attempted murder GANESHWAR Sheocharran, who was arrested recently after leaving Guyana, and sent back by U.S. authorities, was, on Friday, remanded to prison for the attempted murder of his wife.

Sheocharran, a 27-yearold taxi driver of Miss Phoebe, Port Mourant, Berbice, appeared before Magistrate Clive Nurse at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

He was not required to plead to the charge which alleged that, on September 13, 2021, at Miss Phoebe, Port Mourant, he attempted to murder Sandrama Raju by setting her on fire. He was remanded to prison until October 6.

It is alleged that around 00:30 hrs on Monday, Sheocharran and his wife were involved in an argument at their Miss Phoebe, Port Mourant, house, when the woman took kerosene and poured it on herself.

Sheocharran, who is reportedly usually abusive to his wife, allegedly took a lighter and attempted to set Raju alight, but the lighter did not spark the first time.

Not being satisfied, the suspect reportedly tried again and succeeded.

The fire quickly spread as she screamed in agony. In an attempt to extinguish the blaze, the terrified woman rolled on the ground, but by then most of her body had already sustained burns.

She was subsequently taken to the Port Mourant Hospital and later transferred to the New Amsterdam Hospital where she remains in a critical condition.

Sheocharran escaped and managed to board a flight to the United States of America at 17:26 hrs on Tuesday, September 14.

However, the Guyana Police Force (GFP) contacted law enforcement officials in the U.S. and informed them

Ganeshwar Sheocharran that the suspect was wanted by the local police.

Having been informed of the issue, U.S. authorities quickly denied Sheocharran entry into the country and sent him back on a flight to Guyana, which arrived at 06:45 hrs on Wednesday.

He was then arrested and charged for the offence.

fer,” Dr. Anthony noted.

To this end, the Health Minister reiterated his call for everyone to be personally responsible and not put themselves at risk of contracting COVID-19.

“The Task Force would work to enforce measures, measures including restrictions of number of people gathering, talking to people about social distancing and getting people to comply with mask wearing.

“But while the Task Force would try to do this, it’s really each one of us

Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony who would have to change our behaviour to make sure that we would be in compliance with those measures. Because for the Task Force to run behind every single person to see whether they wearing a mask or not, that’s going

to be quite a challenging endeavour,” Dr. Anthony said.

Minister Anthony reminded that the Delta variant is more contagious, noting that persons are at greater risk when in public.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 18, 2021

President Ali, Mexico’s President –– ahead of discuss areas of co-operation CELAC summit

PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali and President of Mexico, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, have discussed several areas of co-operation, ahead of the Sixth Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Community of Latin American and Ca-

ribbean States (CELAC).

President Ali and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd, are in Mexico for the summit, which is scheduled for today.

The Guyanese President and Minister Todd, upon

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, being escorted by Mexico’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Marcelo Ebrard (Office of the President photo)

President Dr. Irfaan Ali with Vice-President of El Salvador, Felix Ulloa

President Dr. Irfaan Ali with President of Mexico, Andrés Manuel López Obrador

their arrival, were greeted by Mexico’s Foreign Minister, Marcelo Ebrard.

CELAC is a regional bloc consisting 33 Latin American and Caribbean states. The organisation aims to unite all of the Latin American and Caribbean states in order to

of the Rio Group and CALC. Ahead of the summit, President Ali met with the President of Mexico, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, in Mexico City.

Dr Ali and his Mexican counterpart discussed matters pertaining to food

strengthen the political, social and cultural integration of the region.

It also hopes to improve the region’s quality of life, stimulate its economic growth, and advance the well-being of all of its people. CELAC is a successor

security, trade, research and development, COP26, climate change, oil and gas and human capacity building. President Ali also met with the Vice-President of El Salvador, Felix Ulloa. (Office of the President)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday September 18, 2021

UG publishes book on local business icon Dr. Yesu Persaud _publications on three other distinguished Guyanese to be released soon

THE University of Guyana Press (UGP) and the Office of Philanthropy, Alumni and Civic Engagement (PACE) officially launched the first of a series of books focusing on and highlighting the lives and works of four outstanding Guyanese, who were awarded the first set of honorary doctorates by the University of Guyana.

According to a press release from the university, those persons are: Dr. Yesu Persaud, Dr. Jay Sobhraj, Dr. Laura George and Dr. Eddy Grant.

The first book in the “Guyanese Exemplar Series” to be launched is titled; “Yesu Persaud -Iconic Leader in Business Innovation.” This book contains the citation given to Dr. Persaud when he was granted the Honorary Doctorate, his acceptance speech, as well as his advice to young people for achieving success.

Speaking during the launch of the book, Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Prof. Edward Greene, acknowledged the “enormous” contributions made by Dr. Persaud to the University of Guyana and he noted that the University of Guyana is very fortunate to have developed a special relationship with the businessman.

Professor Greene pointed out that the publishing of this book is a testimony to the love, affection, and respect that the University of Guyana, led by the Vice-Chancellor, Paloma Mohamed Martin, and her senior management team, share for this quintessential icon.

He added that the book will form part of a special collection of the University of Guyana’s “Exemplar Series” and will no doubt “immortalise” the outstanding contributions of Dr. Persaud to the University, Guyana, the Caribbean, and the world.

“It is a tribute to both Dr. Yesu Persaud and to those who have helped to conceptualise the content and design as a companion to his already magnificent must-read autobiography,

‘Tiger in the Stars’,” he said.

It is futuristic in its presentation, portraying the imagery of achievements of this magnificent human being that could be grasped by the very young.

“What an inspiration, what a landmark for the University of Guyana and its outreach enterprise, and what better subject than the legendary Dr. Yesu Persaud,” Professor Greene said.

The Chancellor also took the opportunity to congratulate Dr. Yesu Persaud on behalf of the Council of the University of Guyana and the University of Guyana Foundation.

He said: “It is my pleasure to let you know that our members highly appreciate your agreeing to be an honorary member. In so doing, you have truly elevated the image of our foundation.

Your philanthropic zeal, entrepreneurial acumen, and visionary advice will no doubt inspire us to help the university to transform itself into a world-class institution.

“We deeply appreciate and acknowledge the vast contributions you have made to our national university, through your unwavering support, your generosity of spirit, your sense and sensibility of the value of this national university to the sustainable development of Guyana.”

Professor Martin, in her remarks, provided a brief background of the Guyanese Exemplar Series project.

She said that it is a fourpart series and the other publications will highlight the life and works of the other three distinguished Guyanese, who were all awarded Honorary Doctorates by the University of Guyana in 2018.

She said: “We want the young people to understand and to be introduced to these Guyanese living icons in every way possible.”

With reference to the first publication on Dr. Persaud, the Professor Martin said: “We thought that creating a tiny book with his speech that he gave when

he received his honourary doctorate would inspire everyone.

“The book summarises his journey, achievements, and 10 success points that he wishes to share with his grandchildren or any young person wanting to know what success in business is about. We hope that in reading this little book it will lead persons to want to engage with the larger autobiography published about 10 years ago. This book will be on sale and proceeds will go to the UG Endowment Fund which is being launched to mark UG’s upcoming 60th anniversary.”

Deputy High Commissioner of India to Guyana, Vijayakumar K., speaking at the launch of the book, said: “Dr. Persaud’s lifestyle has taught many how to

become leading businessmen in Guyana. He is well known for his contributions in business in the region and the world and because of his work, he was able to put Guyana on the world map.”

The diplomat noted that Dr. Persaud has left an indelible mark in business and could easily be described as an innovative leader.

Other officials of UG also acknowledged the many contributions made by Dr. Persaud.

The limited first edition of “Dr. Yesu Persaud Iconic Leader in Business Innovation” is available at a cost of $2,000 from PACE (pace@uog.edu.gy) and the UG Campus Store that could be reached by clicking the link here: https://store.uog.edu.gy/ product-category/books.

Dr. Yesu Persaud holds a copy of the “Dr. Yesu Persaud Iconic Leader in Business Innovation” published by the University of Guyana

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 18, 2021

Practical technology-oriented solutions in ‘agri’ sector to be showcased –– during four-day exhibition to commemorate Caribbean Week of Agriculture

A FOUR-day exhibition, set for October 4 to October 8 as part of the 16th Caribbean Week of Agriculture (CWA), will give stakeholders an opportunity to showcase practical technology-oriented solutions being employed in the agri-

culture sector.

Caribbean Week of Agriculture, which is being observed under the theme, “Transforming our Food Systems”, provides an opportunity for stakeholders in the sector to reassess their position and examine new

agricultural practices.

The four-day event will involve a series of high-level meetings, virtual trade shows, exhibitions, marketplaces, and workshops aimed at highlighting and improving agriculture in the region.

While delivering the

keynote address during the launch of Caribbean Agriculture Week, Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha said this year’s programme, given the present constraints brought on by the ongoing global pandemic, creates room to showcase opportunities for practical technology-oriented solutions.

Minister Mustapha also said that the launch demonstrates the crucial role agriculture plays in the region.

“CWA 2021 marks the return of this important regional event from its longest absence on the regional calendar since its inception in 1999. Notwithstanding the obvious challenges posed by the pandemic, the fact that CWA 2021 is being launched is indicative of the commitment, determination, innovativeness, and the acknowledgment of the importance and the crucial role and place that agriculture occupies in this region, be it in food and nutrition security, or employment and income generation,” Minister Mustapha said.

“The message is clear: Not even a pandemic will stop us from doing what is necessary for the advancement of regional agriculture,” he added.

While offering an overview of the planned events, Assistant Secretary-General of Trade and Economic Integration at the CARICOM Secretariat, Joseph Cox said this year’s CWA was founded upon the establishment of strategic alliances and partnerships involving both the public and private sectors, and including the international development partner community.

“In that regard, the 16th CWA is not a Caribbean Secretariat idea. It is not an IICA idea, it is not an FAO idea, it is not a CARDI idea;

it’s everyone’s idea,” Cox said, adding: “Although the theme for the 16th CWA is, ‘Transforming our Food Systems’, it functionally operates with two critical sub-themes: Agriculture production resilience, and sustainability and Food and Nutrition Security.

“In this regard, whereas COVID-19 has exposed the fragility in our regional food systems, including supply chain shocks, vulnerability to international price volatility, and input source supply concentration, the pandemic has also created numerous opportunities.”

While referencing Guyana’s leading role in agriculture, agricultural diversification, and food security in the CARICOM, Minister Mustapha, who is also Chairman of the special Ministerial Taskforce for Food Production and Food Security, said the theme of CWA 2021 is aligned with the thrust of the Special Ministerial Taskforce (SMT).

“The main objective of the Special Ministerial Taskforce is to provide guidance on the transformation of the agri-food system that is resilient, provides attractive and sustainable wealth creation opportunities for potential investors, and guarantees food and nutrition security for the region,” he said, adding: “We recognise that this desired transformation of the regional agri-food system towards full commercialisation requires the active participation of the regional private sector. In this regard, the Special Ministerial Taskforce collaborates closely with the CARICOM Private Sector Organisation (CPSO), an associate institution of the Caribbean Community invited by the Conference of Heads of Government to engage in a formal and structured manner with the Organs

of the Caribbean Community in an effort to secure the full implementation of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME).

“Over the last months, the Special Ministerial Taskforce has been proactive in initiating dialogue with regional and strategic entities on the subject, particularly of the de-risking of the regional agricultural sector.

“In this regard, the SMTF has received presentations on a possible Agricultural Insurance Product for the Region by a regional company pioneering such a product in a Member State, and outlining the elements for the establishment of a Regional Agricultural Insurance Product, and proposed Sustainable Caribbean Finance Facility for the establishment of a $10B Sustainable Financing Facility for the Caribbean, to support Agricultural Investments by 2035.”

According to the minister, a sub-committee is currently being established, specifically to address opportunities for establishing a similar agricultural insurance product on a regional scale, and for advancing the proposal for the Sustainable Caribbean Finance Facility.

The CWA virtual events will have over 50 exhibitors, with exhibits covering the many areas of agro-business, from primary production, to manufacturing, agro-tourism, agricultural technology, agriculture education, retail, and distribution.

The technical ‘webinars’ will also include discussions on African Swine Fever, climate change, digital agriculture, livestock production, smart agriculture, finance, intra-regional trade opportunities, and the growing economy. (Ministry of Agriculture)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 18, 2021

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Community roads at Enmore, Foulis to be enhanced

tion of a new school.

The Local Government Minister encouraged the NDC to also employ locals to ensure money is circulated in the community.

Additionally, he has Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall (DPI photo) SEVERAL community roads and bridges under the Enmore/Hope Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) are set to be rehabilitated by the end of this year.

The NDC will also receive $2 million worth of crusher run to carry out the roadworks.

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall, made this announcement during a meeting with residents at the Enmore Community Ground, on Friday.

He said the development works will be carried out by the NDC, with assistance from the Regional Democratic Council (RDC).

“We can do some substantial road works in Enmore this year, more rather Enmore/ Foulis and so I want you guys to sit down and decide which ones that you require...

the position of the President [Dr. Irfaan Ali] is that all community roads are going to be upgraded to asphaltic and we recognise the frustration that you have, but most of the roads we are doing are roads where people never had proper street or roads,” he told the residents.

To this end, five roads will be selected for rehabilitation, three for Enmore and two from Foulis, as a part of the government’s 2022 development plans for the area.

Minister Dharamlall assured residents that all community roads will be rehabilitated to make it easily traversable for commuters.

He added that while the ministry would be unable to undertake any major infrastructural works for bridges within the area this year, it will be catered for in next year’s budget; this includes the construc-

Councillors of the Enmore/Hope Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) expressing their concerns (DPI photo)

pledged to employ 10 new Community Enhancement Workers (CEWs) to assist with the work being done by the NDC. “Let us start cleaning up Enmore and the entire NDC… the Community

Infrastructure Improvement Project (CIIP) workers have to start helping now to clean up the cemetery, community grounds and the community drains. So, in the next two months, you guys

are in charge of cleaning up this place,” Minister Dharamlall added.

Some 17 CEWs are under the Enmore/Hope NDC, and 15 alone are from the community of Enmore. (DPI)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday September 18, 2021

Five-month-old among latest COVID-19 fatalities _ 241 new cases recorded

A FIVE-MONTH-OLD of Region One (BarimaWaini) was among three persons who succumbed recently after contracting the dreaded novel c o ro n a v i r u s ( C O V-

ID-19), according to the Ministry of Health.

The loss of those lives took the overall COVID-19 death toll to 706, and in addition to the baby, the other fatalities

were two males, a partially vaccinated 69-yearold and an unvaccinated 79-year-old, both from Region Four (DemeraraMahaica).

Additionally, the Min-

istry of Health reported that 241 new cases were recorded from 1,689 tests conducted between September 16 and September 17. Those new cases took the overall number of confirmed cases to 29,072.

New cases were recorded in Regions One (10), Two (three), Three (48), Four (96), Five (14), Six (six), Seven (21), Eight (23), Nine (10) and 10 (10).

Up to Friday, there

were 35 persons in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 164 in institutional isolation and 3,347 in home isolation.

All Guyanese are reminded to observe the protocols of the COVID-19 Emergency Measures (NO.21), which are in effect until September 30, 2021.

This order emphasises the need for correct and consistent use of a face mask when leaving your home; the importance of

maintaining six feet of physical distance from others, and the need for good hand-hygiene to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

If anyone is displaying any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19 or need any additional information, kindly contact the COVID-19 Hotlines 231-1166, 226-7480 or 624-6674 or visit the Ministry of Health online at www. health.gov.gy.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 18, 2021

51 Moruca residents equipped with technical skills

THE Board of Industrial Training (BIT) held its first graduation exercise in Moruca, Region One (Barima-Waini), for 51 residents who successfully completed training in several courses.

Thirty graduates acquired skills in catering

Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, speaking during the Board of Industrial Training’s graduation ceremony at Moruca Extension Centre, Region One (DPI photo) and cake decoration, 11 in shade house gardening and 10 in solar installation and repairs.

The training, which commenced in 2020, saw trainees receiving monthly stipends of $6,000 to cover travel expenses throughout the six-week course.

The Ministry of Labour has set aside $365 million to provide training for almost 3,000 persons.

Labour Minister, Joseph Hamilton, said more programmes are expected to be implemented soon.

“I would say to Region One and to Moruca, this is your first graduation exercise and I can assure you it would not be the last. I took the opportunity to meet with the regional administration and the

Toshaos of different villages to seek their response to forward programmes to us for technical training in their communities.

“One of the programmes requested is small engine repairs, primarily people being trained to repair ATVs… that is a useful tool in this part of the region and the country. We are grateful that we can be afforded this opportunity to bring the necessary skills training to people of these communities, and we will continue to do that,” the minister said during the graduation ceremony held at the Moruca Extension Centre.

Minister Hamilton reassured graduates that hinterland communities will continue to benefit from services of his ministry.

“In Moruca, we have several co-ops, at least five. We need to shepherd them so that they can become vehicles of development in the Moruca Sub-District. And, therefore, the CCDO will stay and engage with these groups to ensure that they get the necessary training and be able to function effectively and efficiently.

“So, we will continue to give the necessary support to the region like we have set out to do with all regions so that we can continue to bring the necessary facilities and the necessary opportunities to far flung regions,” Minister Hamilton said.

The Ministry of Labour recently appointed its first technical officer to Mabaruma, Region One (Barima-Waini). The ministry is also seeking to acquire a permanent labour office in the region.

This is in keeping with its wider plan to decentralise it services in remote areas.

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Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, officials and graduates from Region One BIT training (DPI photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 18, 2021

Prime Minister Phillips performing functions of President –– as Dr. Ali represents Guyana at CELAC Summit, UN General Assembly

PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, was, on Friday, sworn in to perform the functions of the President of Guyana by Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards.

A simple swearing-in ceremony was held at the

Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), moments after President Dr. Irfaan Ali departed the country for official duties.

President Ali’s first stop is in Mexico for the Community of Latin American and Caribbean (CELAC) Summit, after which he will travel to New York for the 76th Session of the United

Nations General Assembly, which is scheduled for next week.

Present at the swearing-in ceremony for Prime Minister Phillips were Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Brigadier Godfrey Bess, and Commissioner of Police (ag), Nigel Hoppie.

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, takes the oath to perform the functions of the President in the presence of Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 18, 2021

G20 Agriculture Ministers: Agri-food systems key to reducing inequalities

–– says FAO Director-General (FAO) Leaders of the G20 countries must continue to support the smooth functioning of global agri-food systems, which faces ongoing challenges from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, QU Dongyu, Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), said in his remarks at the opening of the G20 Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting in Florence, Italy.

Qu hailed the G20’s pivotal leadership role over the past 18 months in mitigating the effects of the pandemic on the sector.

“I can confidently say that our collective efforts kept agri-food systems open and trade flowing,” he said.

Yet challenges persist, notably due to how the pandemic has “expanded existing inequalities,” he said, citing the International Monetary Fund’s estimation that the per capita income loss for emerging markets and developing economies has been two and a half times the proportion of those in advanced economies; as well as FAO’s assessment that food insecurity has risen from 8.4 per cent to around 9.9 per cent of the world’s population.

FAO’s Director-General stressed that there is clear evidence that “agri-food systems are key to reducing these inequalities, especially in rural areas.”

He also emphasised the continual emergence of new and complex crises, citing the cases of Afghanistan and Haiti, appealing to G20 members and other donors to provide swift support to farmers in troubled regions.

FAO has launched an appeal for US$36 million in urgent short-term immediate assistance to ensure Afghan farmers do not miss more of the upcoming winter wheat planting season.

Qu showed the ministers at the meeting a brief video message from Thomas Pesquet, a French astronaut and FAO Goodwill Ambassador who is currently on the International Space Station, in which the Director-General asked Pesquet

to share his thoughts with the G20 ministers.

At a joint press conference with Qu, Italy’s Agriculture Minister Stefano Patuanelli pointed to his country’s US$10 million contribution to the Food Coalition, an Italy-initiated, FAO-hosted strategy that the Director-General described as a “flexible coordination mechanism which allows us to build an inclusive alliance of partners and stakeholders together in response to specific country needs.”

He also hailed the potential of new technologies to help “reconcile contradictions” and produce more food for more people while using fewer natural resources.

“It depends on us. We have to believe in this: we have to start acting. Words are not enough. Meetings are not enough. We need concrete actions by the governments,” Patuanelli said.

The Director-General thanked Italy, noting the long-term generosity of the government, the people and the city of Rome in hosting FAO for 70 years. “Italy walks the talk,” Qu said.

THE MEETING The Italian G20 Presidency is hosting the twoday meeting, which focuses on the sustainability of agricultural and food systems.

Prior to this event, preparatory meetings by Agriculture Ministry officials exchanged insights on the role of research and innovation and the necessity of sharing technological knowledge as tools to boost resilience, as well as new breeding techniques and the prospective role of digital traceability.

Italy organised two scientific workshops, one on antimicrobial resistance and one on agriculture and climate change.

The ministerial meeting also focuses on the Zero Hunger goal, the One Health approach and the G20’s contribution to the upcoming UN Food Systems Summit 2021 and COP 26.

Leaders of the Organi-

The G20 Agriculture Ministers meeting in Florence zation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), World Bank, World Health Organization (WHO), World Trade Organization (WTO), World Food Programme (WFP),

International Labor Organization (ILO), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) also participated in the event.

The FAO Director-General commended Italy’s

G20 Presidency for constructive efforts throughout 2021 and pushing food security higher up the agenda, as underscored in the Matera Declaration.

Qu also pointed to re-

forms of FAO itself under his leadership, including a new Strategic Framework 2022-2031 built around the “Four Betters”: Better Production, Better Nutrition, a Better Environment, and a Better Life - and geared to accelerate all of its expertise and human capital to enhance FAO’s work as a professional, knowledge and innovative agency.

FAO stands ready to support Members in the transformation of agri-food systems and to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, he said, urging the G20 Agriculture Ministers to accelerate the pace of progress by agreeing on the importance of G20 cooperation, responsible and targeted investments, One Health, research and innovation, and open global agri-food trade flows.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday September 18, 2021

Timehri couple dies after septic tank mishap

Camille Dwarka and her husband Ramlall Madhoo during happier times

A HYDE Park, Timehri couple, on Thursday, died after entering a septic tank at their residence.

Reports are that 42-yearold Camille Dwarka visited the outdoor toilet at her residence, but was subsequently

heard screaming by her niece Anita Joseph, who reportedly lived with Dwarka.

Being alerted by the screams, Joseph ventured out of the house to ascertain what had happened. And upon a closer inspection, she

discovered her aunt floating in the septic tank.

Joseph immediately called out for 51-year-old Ramlall Madhoo, who did not hesitate to plunge into the septic tank to rescue his wife.

Realising that Madhoo was not coming up to the surface, she checked and noticed both bodies floating in the septic tank. The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) was called in at around 21:32 hours to extract the persons.

Upon arrival at the scene, firefighters noticed the bodies floating in the septic tank and managed to cut it open to retrieve them.

The police then took over and examined the bodies, but there were no marks of violence on the areas that were visible.

The man and woman were subsequently taken to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre, where they were pronounced dead on arrival.

The bodies are at the Memorial Funeral Home awaiting an autopsy.

“In light of this tragedy, the Guyana Fire Service would like to advise citizens that septic tanks should be cleaned on a relatively regular basis,” the GFS said in a statement on Thursday.

The average household septic tank should be inspected at least every three years by a septic service

professional.

According to the fire service, the lack of cleaning and maintenance to septic tanks could present serious hazards including septic cave-in or collapses, methane gas explosion hazards and asphyxiation hazards, as well as risks of unsanitary conditions such as bacterial or viral infections.

In providing specific advice, the GFS said persons should never lean over a septic tank opening or stick their heads into the tank to examine its interior, since could cause them to become overwhelmed by gases, fall into the tank, and suffocate.

For this reason, the fire service advised persons to leave tank cleaning and repairs to trained professionals, and never enter a septic tank unless they are specially trained and are wearing special equipment and gear for that purpose, including a self-contained breathing apparatus.

“Do not go into a septic tank to retrieve someone who has fallen in and was overcome by gases unless you are equipped with a self-contained breathing apparatus. Instead, call for emergency services and put one or more fans at the top of the septic tank to blow in fresh air,” the Guyana Fire Service advised.

The septic tank that the couple fell into

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday September 18, 2021

Nandu heroics save West Indies U-19s’ face CMC – MATTHEW Nandu struck his second straight half-century, while leg-spinner Vasant Singh snatched a four-wicket haul as West Indies Under-19s wrapped up their six-match tour of England with a 17-run victory Friday.

Entering the contest at Polo Farm Sports Club with just a single win to their credit in the previous five Youth One-Day Internationals, the tourists managed to raise 230 all out off their 50 overs, with the left-handed Nandu stroking a top score of 80 to follow up his 51 in the fifth match earlier this week.

Carlon Bowen-Tuckett struck 48 and Ackeem Auguste, 25, with West Indies Under-19s also benefitting from 36 extras, courtesy of 18 wides and eight no-balls.

Fast bowlers Sonny Baker (4-41) and Nathan Barnwell (2-37) spearheaded England’s U-19 attack, along with leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed who claimed three for 30.

In reply, England U-19s were dismissed for 213 off 45 overs with Vasant Singh finishing with four for 51 from his 10 overs and Nandu returning with his off-spin to claim two for 35.

Matthew Nandu top-scored with 80.

Rehan Ahmed, entering at number seven, top-scored for the hosts with an unbeaten 68, which nearly took the game away from West Indies U19s, while George Thomas weighed in with 38 and James Rew, 28, the pair adding 52 for the first wicket.

Thomas struck four fours and a six off 57 balls while Rew faced 40 deliveries and counted four fours before becoming the first casualty of the run chase in the 12th over.

Thomas put on a further 27 for the third wicket with Danial Ibrahim (6) before England U19s lost a cluster of wickets with five going down for the addition of only 44 runs, to leave the innings in turmoil on 135 for seven in the 33rd over.

However, Rehan Ahmed slammed six fours and two sixes, posting 30 for the eighth wicket with Fateh

Singh (13) and 36 for the last wicket with Baker (3), before West Indies U19s wrapped up victory with nerves beginning to fray.

Choosing to bat first earlier, West Indies U-19s rallied to their eventual score after Nandu held the innings together by anchoring two half-century stands.

With the innings floundering on 25 for two, Nandu put on 78 for the third wicket with Ackeem Auguste, who punched two fours in a 43ball knock, before posting another 55 for the sixth wicket with Johann Layne (16).

All told, Nandu faced 120 deliveries and struck eight fours before falling in the 39th over to a catch at the wicket off Baker.

Bowen-Tuckett then took responsibility for the back end of the innings, hitting five fours in a 69ball stay at the crease.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday September 18, 2021)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Dominic Drakes (Patriots) (2) Roston Chase (Kings) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who scored the most runs in Hero CPL 2021?

(2) Who struck the highest individual score in Hero CPL 2021?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

26

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday September 18, 2021

Harris returns to UFC today against Kasanganay

CARLSTON Harris, Guyana’s first UFC fighter, will return to the Octagon today at another UFC Fight Night against Impa Kasanganay.

The two will square off in a welterweight bout at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada, on the preliminary card which will get underway at 16:00hrs Guyana time.

Yesterday Harris tipped the scale at 170lbs.

Harris, 33, with 16 MMA wins and four losses, is fighting for just the second time in the UFC after picking up a first-round Anaconda Choke Submission victory over American Christian Aguilera.

Kasanganay, 27, has an MMA record of 9-1, and two wins and a defeat from three UFC contests.

“I don’t have any pressure; I take it one step at a time. One fight at a time. It’s just another fight. I get in there and do what I train in the gym,” Harris told UFC.com during his fight week interview

FLASH BACK! Carlston Harris reacts after his submission victory over Christian Aguilera in a welterweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at UFC APEX on May 08, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

(Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)

ahead of UFC Fight Night: Smith vs Spann.

According to the Berbician, “My plan when I get in the cage

is always to not leave it up to the judges.”

Riding a four-fight winning streak, all of which have come by way of finish, “Mozambique” as he also known, said he’s looking to build on the momentum he’s built in the four months since making the walk to the Octagon for the first time.

“I utilised [the wins] as motivation and tried to get better every day, because I know there are going to be a lot of guys watching me, so the lions are there,” the Rio de Janeiro resident said. “They’re hungry and want a piece of me, so I try to get better in all areas.”

Since submerging himself in the depths of the UFC’s welterweight division, Harris explained that his training has been elevated in a number of ways, but especially by the athletes he shares his gym with.

“Every day in the gym they’re coming at me hard. I’m feeling the training, feeling it get harder every

Pele recovering well from recent operation (BBC) - BRAZILIAN football legend Pele is "recovering well" from a recent operation, his daughter says.

The 80-year-old had surgery to remove a tumour from his colon earlier this month and was released from intensive care on Wednesday.

Media reports in Brazil earlier said he was back in intensive care at Sao Paulo's Albert Einstein Hospital.

"He is recovering well and within normal range," Kely Nascimento said in a post on Instagram.

He had been having treatment at the hospital since 31 August after the tumour was detected in routine tests.

ESPN Brasil had reported Pele was readmitted to intensive care, while Sao Paulo publication Folha said he had been readmitted as a precautionary measure because of his age.

Both Pele's representatives and the hospital said they could not confirm the reports.

"I don't know what is going on with the rumours out there

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day. I know that with hard training in the gym you will feel more confident when you get into the cage.”

While it’s something he’s never really lacked, confidence will be key for Harris heading into this Saturday’s matchup against former middleweight Impa Kasanganay, who is also making a sophomore showing in the welterweight division.

While Kasanganay has more Octagon time than Harris, the Guyanese has twice as many professional fights with wins over names from the UFC roster such as Wellington Turman and Michel Pereira — experience he believes will make the difference.

“It’s great experience because it shows you both sides of fighting. It shows you victorious and in loss. It shows you how you might deal with loss, because it’s not easy to deal with. People get frustrated when they lose,” Harris said.

Masakadza brings Zimbabwe level in Scottish series

Wellington Masakadza picked up two crucial wickets in the final over AFP

(ESPNCRICINFO) - IN a see-saw low-scorer that went down to the final over, with Scotland needing 13 to seal the series, Wellington Masakadza proved to be the hero for the visitors.

Zimbabwe came storming back to win by 10 runs and level the three-match T20I series at 1-1.

Masakadza picked up two wickets and effected a run-out as Scotland lost four wickets in four balls. The left-arm spinner first removed Safyaan Sharif off the first ball when he was caught by Ryan Burl at long-on before running out Mark Watt, who sacrificed his wicket at the non-striker's end while trying to steal a second.

Then with 13 needed off four, Masakadza all but sealed the game when he dismissed the well-set Michael Leask, who had held the lower order together in making a 20-ball 25 until that point. In trying for a big hit, Leask top-edged a slog towards long-on where Sean Williams held on to a superb catch.

That catch wasn't the sole contribution by Williams. He was pivotal to Zimbabwe's innings, forging a remarkable recovery from 20 for 3 in the third over. He batted through the innings from there on to make 60 off 52 balls, with five fours and a six. Along the way, he struck up vital partnerships with Craig Ervine (71-run stand for the fourth wicket) and a quick fire 42 off 26 balls with Burl. This late overs impetus lifted Zimbabwe and gave their bowlers a total of 136 to defend.

Scotland started poorly, the cream of their batting dismantled inside the fifth over as they slipped to 16 for 4, with Tendai Chatara and Richard Ngarava doing bulk of the damage. Richie Berrington, who rescued them with a match-winning half-century in the series opener, threatened to pull off a repeat, until he fell to Williams - that man, again - for 42. At that stage, Scotland needed 45 off 35, with Matt Cross well set. However his dismissal, also for 42, in the 18th over, turned the tide in Zimbabwe's favour and Masakadza made the most of it.

The third T20I will be played on Sunday.

27

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday September 18, 2021

Harris returns to UFC today against Kasanganay …Jamaal Shabazz returns to pilot Golden Jaguars on World Cup campaign

New Zealand call off Pakistan tour over security concerns

Jamaal Shabazz

By Rawle Toney THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) officially announced the return of Jamaal Shabazz to the helm of the country’s senior men’s national programme – the Golden Jaguars.

Having first taken charge of the Golden Jaguars in 2005, the 57-year-old Trinidad and Tobago native will make his fourth stop as the Golden Jaguars Head Coach, after also serving in 2011 – 2012 and 2015 – 2016.

“Today marks another new and exciting chapter in the history of Guyana's Golden Jaguars. We are pleased to announce that Mr. Jamaal Shabazz is the new Head Coach for the Senior Men's National Team,” Wayne Forde, president of the GFF said at a press conference hosted at the Federation’s National Training Centre at Providence.

“The GFF’s Executive Committee is extremely confident in Coach Shabazz's track record and his ability to lead the national team programme and to build on the sturdy foundation already set in place. He is a master of his art who brings extensive expertise and experience to this role,” Forde said.

The GFF president added that “it goes without saying that he will have our full and unrelenting support as we continue to shape the programme towards qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This is quite possibly the best time to remind all Guyanese that it is not a team that qualifies for a FIFA World Cup, but rather — a nation.”

A DIFFERENT APPROACH Shabazz departed in 2016 following a heart-breaking 4 – 2 defeat to Reggae Boyz at the National Track and Field Centre in the 2016 Caribbean Cup Qualifiers, where the Jamaicans came from being down 2 – 0 at half time to win.

Since then, the Golden Jaguars were led

by Shabazz’s assistant, Wayne Dover, former Jamaica International Michael Johnson and recently, Brazilian Marcio Maximo.

Shabazz lauded the three coaches for all their inputs towards the Golden Jaguars,

while adding, “I’m here to build upon the platform of their work, while bringing my own experience, love and commitment to the game. Building isn’t all about ‘mashing down’ but it is about using platforms that have been established already.”

The Morvant Caledonia football club founder highlighted the change in Guyana’s football landscape over the last 15 years when he was first introduced to the ‘Land of Many Waters’ as a coach.

At the press conference, where Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr., along with Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC) Kashif Muhammed were in attendance, Shabazz reminded the gathering of media and other GFF execs, of the many times they were forcefully removed from venues after breaching the borders of the facility to gain access to train, since no permission was given.

“When I look at the technological and infrastructural advancement in the last five years, a lot has to do with the leadership of president Forde and the executives,” Shabazz said.

Shabazz is calling for a collective approach, with all stakeholders involved, particularly the Government of Guyana and the media, for him to achieve success this time around.

Meanwhile, Minister Ramson Jr, upon listing the many achievements of Shabazz under his previous tenures as Head Coach, assured the nation that the Trinidadian will be more than capable in leading the Golden Jaguars to prosperity.

“Jamaal Shabazz comes with the credentials, he comes with the experience; he comes with the record that’s proven and tested. And on behalf of the Government of Guyana, I would like to welcome him back,” Ramson said.

The Golden Jaguars ended their season under former Coach, Marcio Maximo, with a failed bid at qualifying for the 2020 CONCACAF Gold Cup, as well as falling short of advancing to the next round of their FIFA Qatar World Cup Qualifier.

NZC chief executive David White: "Player safety is paramount and we believe this is the only responsible option" AFP/Getty Images

(ESPNCRICINFO) - New Zealand have called off their limited-overs tour of Pakistan citing security concerns, leaving the cricket community in Pakistan unimpressed. PCB chairman Ramiz Raja was especially critical of the New Zealand Cricket decision, saying, "Walking out of the tour by taking a unilateral approach on a security threat is very frustrating. Especially when it is not shared! Which world is NZ living in?

NZ will hear us at ICC." The tour, comprising three ODIs and five T20Is, was supposed to start today, with the first ODI in Rawalpindi, but neither team left their hotel on the morning of the game, and spectators were not allowed to enter the stadium.

After a period of uncertainty, as details regarding the cause of the delay were awaited, a NZC statement was issued, saying, "Following an escalation in the New Zealand Government threat levels for Pakistan, and advice from NZC security advisors on the ground, it has been decided the Blackcaps will not continue with the tour."

The New Zealand contingent in Pakistan is now preparing to leave the country.

"I understand this will be a blow for the PCB, who have been wonderful hosts, but player safety is paramount and we believe this is the only responsible option," NZC chief executive David White said in the statement.

Jacinda Ardern, the New Zealand prime minister who spoke to Imran Khan, her counterpart in Pakistan, insisted that player safety had to be prioritised. "When I spoke with the prime minister of Pakistan, I conveyed our thanks for taking care of the New Zealand cricket team," she was quoted as saying by media back home in

New Zealand. "I know how disappointing it will be for everyone that the game hasn't gone ahead, but we totally support the decision that's been made. Player safety has to be paramount."

The PCB responded with a statement indicating its unhappiness at what it called a "unilateral" decision.

"Earlier today, the New Zealand cricket board informed us that they had been alerted to some security alert and have unilaterally decided to postpone the series," the statement said. "PCB and Govt of Pakistan made foolproof security arrangements for all visiting teams. We have assured the New Zealand cricket board of the same.

The Prime Minister spoke personally to the Prime Minister of New Zealand and informed her that we have one of the best intelligence systems in the world and that no security threat of any kind exists for the visiting team.

"The security officials with the NZ team have been satisfied with security arrangements made by the Govt of Pakistan throughout their stay here."

On the subject of "foolproof security", there was a significantly heavier security cover in the approach to the Rawalpindi stadium than has perhaps been in evidence since cricket trickled back into the country. Roadblocks had been set up miles from the stadium several hours ahead of time, and security searches were extensive.

The New Zealand squad had landed in Islamabad on September 11 and had since held three training sessions in the runup to the first ODI. Both the teams were staying in a hotel that, with all security protocols in place, was about a 15-minute drive away from the ground.

This was New Zealand's first tour to Pakistan in 18 years, after 2003.

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Nandu heroics save West Indies U-19s’ face

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday September 18, 2021

Harris returns to UFC today against Kasanganay 26 PAGE

Matthew Nandu top-scored with 80.

FLASH BACK! Carlston Harris reacts after his submission victory over Christian Aguilera in a welterweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at UFC APEX on May 08, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)

The ‘fourth’ coming of Shabazz! …Jamaal Shabazz returns to pilot Golden Jaguars on World Cup campaign PAGE

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Jamaal Shabazz, flanked by GFF president Wayne Forde and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021