Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_21_11_2020

SATURDAY 21st November, 2020

' No.106190

US$100M Radisson Blu Hotel coming to Giftland –– Roy Beepat lauds ‘phenomenal’ business climate

UAE delegation wings out: wide-ranging discussions held on investment

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Cops looking for woman who escaped through toilet window at police station

The Giftland Mall ushered in the festive spirit with a Christmas Tree Light Up on Friday. Giftland intends to make the light up a grand annual event in the coming years (Delano (DelanoWilliams Narine photo) photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

President Irfaan Ali and His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Dalmook Juma Al Maktoum attended Friday prayers at the Queenstown Masjid in Georgetown (Office of the President Photograph) President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mr. Hugh Todd meeting with His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Dalmook Juma Al Maktoum of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and his delegation on Friday (Office of the President Photograph)

UAE delegation holds wide-ranging discussions on investment PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan Ali and several other high-ranking officials of the Guyana Government continued discussions with the high-level team from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) late into Friday night on investment opportunities across all the major sectors in Guyana.

The eight-member delegation, headed by his Highness, Sheikh Ahmed Dalmook Al Maktoum of the UAE, arrived in Guyana on Thursday, and is expected to leave today.

The discussions have so far been with an air of optimism that Guyana will benefit from several investment projects.

The UAE is no stranger to major international investments; in fact, the Sheikh is the founder of a diversified conglomerate, the Africa, Middle East Resource Investment (AMERI) Group.

As the founder and Chairman of AMERI Group LLC, His Highness established strategic partnerships in many countries to create a better world for the underprivileged.

He has played a path-defining role in extending a helping hand to bring about positive change in the lives of millions.

The AMERI Group itself has diversified into a conglomerate that develops, invests, co-owns, and operates power plants, energy and infrastructure projects mainly in Africa and the

Middle East.

Through AMERI Energy, the group has provided economical, innovative and clean energy solutions. The AMERI Infrastructure division specialises in solutions with a reputable clientele.

Since the change of Government in August, Guyana has attracted a number of international investors.

Within the space of three months, the country has hosted the U.S. Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, and the President of Suriname, Chandrikapersad Santokhi, and other high-level officials.

This unprecedented interest in Guyana is due mainly to the country’s nascent oil and gas sector, which is expected to catalyse development across all sectors.

President Ali has already said that progress is expected on all fronts in 2021, which has since been designated the Year of Investments and Development.

Meanwhile, President Ali and His Highness, Sheikh Ahmed Bin Dalmook Juma Al Maktoum attended Friday prayers at the Queenstown Masjid, here in Georgetown.

They were joined by other members of the visiting delegation, and members of the local Islamic community, including the Director of Education and Dawah at the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG), Shaykh Moeenul Hack.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

US$100M

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Radisson Blu Hotel coming to Giftland

― Roy Beepat lauds ‘phenomenal’ business climate

By Tamica Garnett

OWNER of the Giftland Mall Roy Beepat on Friday announced that plans are afoot to build a 12-storey, 400-room, multibillion-dollar Radisson Blu Hotel next to the Giftland Mall.

The Radisson Blu is one of seven distinctive hotel brands under the US-headquartered Radisson Hotel Group, one of the largest and most dynamic hotel groups in the world, with over 1,100 hotels in destinations globally.

The investment, Beepat said, is expected to be somewhere in the vicinity of US$80 – 100 million, and the building is set to be situated on a section of the Giftland Mall’s current parking lot.

“We have three acres on the car park; that’s about 130,000 square feet. We’re only going to use 90,000 square feet of that, but we’re going up 12 floors, which would give us over one million square feet in space,” Beepat explained of the grand plans for the Hotel.

He added: “Four floors will be hotels with 100 rooms each. We’ll also have 200 apartments and rooms for things such as banqueting, conferencing, and business floors with business services. We’re hoping to bring five fast casual restaurants, such as Red Lobster, Olive Garden, Banana Breeze.”

PHENOMENAL Describing the business environment as “phenomenal”, Beepat said there is no time like the present to get involved in major investments in Guyana.

“There’s nobody in business who I’ve spoken to who isn’t overjoyed with the direction the country is going,” Beepat said, adding: “The Giftland Group will

continue to expand on different areas and avenues, which were previously looked at but weren’t feasible at the time, but now is, due to the upcoming demand, and the change in the economic climate. We’re so optimistic, and we understand that there is going to be need for more hotel rooms, so we had our application for a 400-room

for consumers to spend. So the environment is filled with optimism,” Beepat said.

All forecasts have been predicting massive growth in Guyana’s economy over the next few years, due to the country’s recent but abundant oil and gas industry, for which production began last year. Guyana, with its new-found oil wealth, is on

the cusp of economic transformation, and has already received the title of “investment capital of the region and possibly the world”.

Several investors have particularly been focused on the hotel industry.

The Government had recently put out Expressions of Interest (EOIs)and requests for proposals for investors

to build hotels in Guyana.

The aim, as outlined by the President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, is to provide at least 2,000 firstclass rooms, making Guyana “a conventional destination”.

Aside from the Radisson brand, some of the key players in the hotel industry, like the Hyatt Hotels Corporation, and the Hilton Hotels and Resorts, are said to have

A Radisson Hotel (Photo courtesy of Radisson Hotels official site)

Radisson Blu five-star hotel that will be going up in the next few years.”

Beepat also commended the Government for playing its part in fostering an encouraging business environment, especially for local investors, as they, too, try to get in on the pie.

“We have a Government that understands business, and they’re doing everything within their power to make sure it flows. The fact, that they’ve put an ease on so much taxes makes it easier

already submitted EoIs to the Government of Guyana.

Owner of Giftland Mall, Mr. Roy Beepat

MAJOR OVERHAUL Beepat noted that aside from this newest project by the Giftland Group, plans are also in the works for a major overhaul of the Giftland Department Stores, and the expansion of Giftland’s FoodMaxx Supermarket brand.

“The Foodmaxx Supermarket, we plan to make that the Number One supermarket in the Caribbean

by next year. Right now, we have been gaining tremendous market share; most of our customers say it’s a phenomenal experience,” Beepat said.

This year, amidst closed doors and a severe decline in business, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Giftland Mall celebrated its fifth anniversary since opening at its Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara location.

Though there was not much of a celebration due to that situation, Beepat noted that the year does mark a turning point for the business, and has paved a clearer path for expansion and development.

“For the first five years, we suffered because the cost of building the Mall had its effects on our goods and services. But we’re now past that, so we’re looking to be the old Giftland, like we were on Water Street, where anything you can imagine you can get here,” Beepat said.

“In terms of Giftland Stores, we want a complete re-do. The stores have been there five years, so we’re going to completely refurbish it, and bring it into a more modern unit, and increase our product line,” he added.

As pertains to challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, Beepat said the hardest for him was having to put staff on the breadline, as the business navigated the pandemic. However, things are now turning towards a brighter future.

“I think we all faced challenges, and having our staff on the breadline. We tried as much as we could to keep as many as possible employed, and we have been able to bring all of our staff back on. That was our biggest challenge,” Beepat said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

Over $1B in expired drugs purchased before August being dumped ― Health Minister says space being created at bonds

OVER $1 billion worth of expired drugs purchased before August 2020, are being dumped by the Ministry of Health.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), expired medical products can be less effective, or risky due to a change in chemical composition, or a decrease in strength. Certain expired medications are at risk of bacterial growth, and sub-potent antibiotics can fail to treat infections, leading to more serious illnesses and antibiotic resistance.

Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony, during the Budget 2020 debates, had said that over 1.6 million items would have expired in the first eight months of

this year, with some $200 million more scheduled to expire by December.

An aggregation of the expired drugs shows that close to $1 billion was wasted on expired medicine and supplies.

Minister Anthony has said that expired drugs have cost Guyanese taxpayers millions of dollars, not only for procurement, but storage as well. “ To d a y, w e c o m menced the disposal of expired drugs we had in the bond. We are doing that for two reasons: One, it has expired, so it can no longer be used for human consumption. Therefore, we had to dump it,” Dr. Anthony said.

“In addition to that, the expired drugs have been cluttering up … You

would know that in the past, because the bond was cluttered, the previous Government resorted to renting bond space. So, by clearing out expired drugs, we have now been able to

did not buy medicines for the HIV patients. They did not buy medicines for TB patients, and no medicines for Malaria patients.”

The new Government, through the 2020 Budget,

Expired drugs being dumped

make more space available,” said Dr. Anthony during a recent interview with the Department of Public Information.

The Health Minister, in a past report, had said that Guyana’s health sector was perhaps the most neglected sector under

SATURDAY, 21 NOVEMBER, 2020‒09:30hrs - 11:00hrs

the former APNU+AFC Administration.

Minister Anthony was quoted by sections of the media as saying: “The APNU+AFC Government did not buy medicines

for the people with high blood pressure in this country; it meant that the APNU+AFC did not buy medicines for patients who had heart problems in this country; it meant that the APNU+AFC Government did not buy medicines for the diabetic patients; they

has taken a step towards ensuring Guyanese no longer have to risk their lives at the hands of a “failing system,” Dr. Anthony said.

The Government has allocated $51.7 billion, or 15.7 per cent of the total budget to the health sector for 2020. Of this amount, $14.3 billion

has been budgeted for the procurement of drugs and medical supplies, and $3.2 billion will go to the procurement of emergency drugs and medical supplies, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

In recognising the need for critical medical supplies, the government, in August opened bids for qualified suppliers to provide emergency medicines and supplies.

The Ministry of Health had said it is desirous of obtaining bids from qualified suppliers to supply emergency medicines and supplies, which are readily available in the country.

Those medical supplies will not only be used in the fight against COVID-19, but to also treat other diseases and ailments, which are sometimes overlooked by the public because of the coronavirus pandemic. The areas identified for supplies were pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, radiology supplies and dental supplies.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

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Giftland ushers in the Christmas spirit

IN what is hoped to expand into a grand annual feature, the Giftland Mall, on Friday, held its inaugural Christmas Tree Light Up, officially turning on the lights on the trees lining both sides of the roadway leading up to the East Coast Mall.

The illuminated roadway is meant to complement the luxuriously decorated Christmas tree, captivating ceiling lights and other striking Christmas-related attractions currently on display inside the mall.

“In the main hall we’ve put up the big Christmas tree; we have the ginger bread house and ginger bread family; we have a train set and a lovely lighted section. We have different areas with teddy bears and reindeers, and lots of different things where persons can go and take selfies and feel a little enlightened,” shared Roy Beepat, owner of the Mall.

Many patrons had already begun to appreciate and be enthralled by the attraction after the lights were turned on.

Beepat noted that the lighting-up of the trees was intentionally kept small due to the current need to avoid large gatherings to curb the spread of the ongoing COVID-19

pandemic. Nonetheless, the businessman said he is focused on the bigger picture of what the event will evolve into in the future.

“We hope that this will be the first of an annual event that becomes larger and larger as the years go by. We’re thankful it’s not too large this year because of COVID-19. But from next year, we hope that, with the vaccines, everything will be back to normal and things will really boom and this car park will be really filled with people who want to come out and enjoy this,” Beepat said.

Given the psychological and emotional toll that the COVID-19 pandemic inflicted on citizens, Beepat said that notwithstanding the economic downturn, the Mall really wanted to put its best foot forward in doing something special to ensure Christmas was still a time of joy for its customers.

“This has been a terrible year. It’s been a really, really hard year in terms of our personal suffering with persons being cooped up and locked up because of COVID, and some of us have lost loved ones. So the Giftland Group of Companies made a dedicated effort to try and spread joy and

cheer for this Christmas period and we spared no expense in order to make that happen,” he said.

Like with the rest of the economy, the Giftland Mall was also hard hit by the COVID-19 situation. The Mall had temporarily suspended operations for approximately four months, closing its doors in April, and only temporarily partially reopening with some services in July.

However, business at the mall has returned to some amount of normalcy so far, even though consumers are required to wear masks in the facility and have their temperatures tested and hands sanitised upon entry.

However, dozens of persons were at the Mall last Friday night taking in the attractions and treasuring the ability to be out even more now, after months of restrictions.

Beepat said that since reopening the mall, the support has been tremendous and he was truly grateful for all the customers who had returned to support the business.

“I think the people feel a bit shackled and missed coming out and for us it has been record sales since we reopened,” Beepat said.

Women in Business ‘Expo’ billed for next Friday THE Women in Business Expo 2020 will be held virtually this coming Friday at the Guyana Pegasus Hotel.

The event, which originally started in 2016 and has been the launch-pad for many small businesses, is hosted annually by the Sonia Noel Foundations for Creative Arts (SNFCA) in collaboration with the Women’s Association for Sustainable Development.

Usually held in March to coincide with the celebration of International Women’s Month, the event was pushed back this year due to COVID-19.

The main objective for hosting it virtually is so as to help generate business for the coming holiday season and beyond for women with small businesses.

“Last year, we made phenomenal inroads, and some of the exhibitors participated in Miami for the Florida International Trade and Cultural Expo,” SNFCA said, adding: “The virtual edition will be a true celebration of entrepreneurship, positioning the entrepreneurs a step closer to their goals.”

The Foundation also seized the opportunity to express its gratitude to the companies which are supporting this year’s event, companies such as the Pegasus Hotel, Impressions Branding, GTT, HJTV, NCN, Amare Investment and Destiny’s Events.

It quotes local hotelier, Mr. Carlos Montenegro, as saying, “The Pegasus Hotel

is very happy to be supporting this great initiative; we have been supporting it from the very first year.”

Some of the enthusiastic exhibitors were present at the press conference and were excited about the upcoming event. First- time exhibitor, Samantha Grant, founder of Rejuvanate Spa, said she has been observing the success of the event for years, and decided this was her time to participate because she believes her business will benefit.

growth.”

Her products can be found at supermarkets all across the city, and this time around, she will be launching her onion spread.

The ‘expo’ has over the years provided a precious sisterhood among the women, and is a big plus for the event.

A fashion display will be part of this virtual event.

“When I registered for the Women in Business Expo, I believeed this event had the ability to transform my life,

Sonia Noel with long-time exhibitors, Jean Jones and Alicia Daniels

The March ‘expo’, the Foundation says, will showcase a lot of first-time exhibitors as well as many of the veterans like Carol Nurse, who is the proprietrix of Angel Garlic Spread.

“My business,” she said, “has benefited tremendously from this ‘expo’. Sonia Noel is like a guardian angel that picks you up when you are having the most challenging time. I have experienced personal and professional

and it has manifested,” said exhibitor, Alianne Glenn.

Over the years, women with just an idea had the opportunity to make it a reality.

“The numerous testimonials remind me why I continue to host this event, even with the challenges. It is a good feeling knowing you are fulfilling purpose,” Noel said.

The ‘expo’ will be held from 09:00hrs to 19:00 hrs at the Guyana Pegasus Hotel.

The Giftland Mall Trees Lit Up

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

A shining star again

HEADLINES in Guyana’s news media are screaming about the three-day visit by high-ranking officials from the UAE to this country.

After a five-year dearth of investor interest in Guyana, except from exploitative, self-interested persons who had no interest in benefiting our nation in any way, individuals, corporations, and mega-rich countries, as well as local entrepreneurs are discussing with the newly-installed Government joint-venture initiatives that could and would provide accrual benefits to both parties. History has been created in this country by two world leaders of powerful nations who have visited Guyana to have bi-lateral discussions with the Irfaan Ali-led administration within months of their being sworn in to office.

The Guyana Police Force, in a statement, informed this nation of the visit to this country of a team, led by His Highness, Sheikh Ahmed Dalmook Juma Al Maktoum of the United Arab Emirates and including eight other members in his delegation.

An Inews report of November 19 apprised readers that Sheikh Ahmed Bin Dalmook Juma Al Maktoum is one of the notable and influential members of the ruling family of Dubai, UAE. He is known for his work in founding the Africa Middle East Resource Investment (AMERI Group), which has emerged as a strong force on the global front.

The news report stated: “An advance

team from the Private Office of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed Dalmook Al Maktoum, led by Mr. Gaspar Lino, visited Guyana from October 26-31, where meetings were held with Ministers of Public Works, Agriculture, Natural Resources and others.

“The Department of Public Information (DPI) had reported that the representatives discussed infrastructural development, government’s financing plans, and the energy sector with Public Works Minister Juan Edghill.

“Engagements with Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha surrounded investments in fertiliser production and assemblage, organic poultry rearing, coffee, cocoa, corn soya bean, spices and Online agriculture and product development. Following the meeting, the minister disclosed that a draft preliminary list of areas for investments will be compiled and taken back to Dubai.”

It is presumed that a preliminary list for investment opportunities piqued the interest of one of the most powerful world leaders of one of the richest countries of the world that he decided on a personal visit to confab with Guyana’s administrative leaders.

This current Government will not be engaging in under-the-counter deals, with massive giveaways of Guyana’s lands and other resources to family members, cronies, friends and financiers; nor are their potential investors expecting them to.

During US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s state visit to Guyana, and subsequent to discussions held with President Ali and other Government functionaries, he assured the nation at a joint press conference, held in State House’s Baridi Benab that the U.S. wants to grow Guyana with Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) that is clean.

He refuted the contentions of those expressing concern that U.S. investments are a threat to Guyana’s sovereignty, and assured: “The United States’ model is to build on the best things of your country… We’ll show up, we’ll bring capital, we’ll bring resources, we’ll often bring technological capabilities that are much needed to develop resources, develop infrastructure for your country, but we don’t do so with political strings tied to them. We don’t operate the way other regimes do, who might show up with money, and then demand political retribution, or worse yet, engage in activity that is corrupt.”

In an interview aired on NCN, Pompeo reiterated his assertions, stating that he talks to American private sector leaders all the time about how they can invest in overseas markets in a manner that is fair and transparent, so they can, in turn, build their businesses in the United States, and explained that he thinks countries understand that America seeks only a fair shot at the competition, the rule of law, enforceable contracts, and a set of property rights.

The Secretary of State affirmed that US investors hire local skills, and that American companies are great environmental stewards.

During that visit, the U.S. and Guyana signed bilateral agreements signalling significant U.S. investments into Guyana’s energy and other sectors.

In turn, President Dr Irfaan Ali said that Guyana is looking forward to partner with the U.S. to strengthen border control, anti-terrorism, cyber security, technology transfer and anti-corruption measures.

Guyana’s President had also discussed with Secretary Pompeo collaboration on combatting the COVID-19 pandemic, and lifting the country out of the economic downturn. President Ali posited that Secretary Mike Pompeo’s historic visit sends a powerful signal that Guyana is regarded as a responsible member of the hemispheric and international communities, as a sovereign nation firmly rooted in democratic principles, the rule of law, respect for human rights, and the pursuit of sustainable and equitable development.

Like on October 5, 1992, August 2, 2020 ushered in the dawn of a brilliant developmental era, with genuine private/ public partnerships driving this nation’s economic growth and social and infrastructural development. Guyana has once again become “the shining star of the Caribbean.”

Combating child labour in Guyana Dear Editor, ON Combatting Child Labour, Guyana is committed to fully honour the two principal International Labour Conventions which it ratified. These are the ILO’s Convention 138, and Convention 182. A ratified Convention is an International Treaty obligating member states to bring their legislation and practice into conformity with all ratified Conventions.

1. Convention No. 138 – Minimum Age, 1973: This Convention calls for: • The abolition of child labour, and emphasises that school is for children (normally any child under 15 years of age), not work; • the minimum age for employment to be not less than the age of completion of compulsory education (normally not

under 15 years); • States to pursue a national policy designed to abolish child labour; • States to progressively raise the minimum age for employment, consistent with the full physical and mental development of young persons; • States to ensure that the minimum age shall not be less than 18 years for any type of work, which is likely to jeopardise the health, safety, or morals (or 16 years under certain conditions of protection of health safety or morals, with adequate and specific instructions or vocational training) of young persons, the representative social partners having been consulted.

2. Convention No. 182 – The Worst Forms of Child Labour, 1999: (ratified by all 187 member State of the UN International Labour Organisation)

This Convention is applicable to all persons under 18 years of age, and requires ratifying states to take effective and immediate measures to prohibit and eliminate as a matter of urgency the worst forms of child Labour defined as: - “all forms of slavery or practices similar to slavery, such as the sale and trafficking of children, debt bondage and serfdom and forced or ` compulsory labour, including forced or compulsory recruitment of children for use in armed conflict”.

- “The use, in procuring or offering of a child for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances”.

- “The use, procuring or offering of a child for illicit activities, in particular for the production and trafficking of drugs”.

- “Work which, by its nature or the circumstances in which it is carried out, is likely to harm the health, safety or morals of children” (Article 3).

Convention 182 on the Worst Forms of Child Labour further calls for: - international cooperation among states in eliminating the worst forms of child labour;

- effective measures to implement and enforce the provisions of the Convention; - the recognition of the importance of education in eliminating child labour; and - special measures to identify and reach out to children at risk, and to take account of the special situation of girls.

Yours sincerely, Samuel J. Goolsarran

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

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Let’s start a conversation on crime and the penal system Dear Editor,

PLEASE don’t blame earthquakes, volcanoes, hurricanes, droughts or floods for shattering the lives and dreams of many Guyanese.

Instead, put the blame for shattering lives and dreams on predatory criminals (such as murderers, rapists, robbers, arsonists, etc), who nonchalantly violate the sanctity of life and individual property.

These criminals do not only hurt victims physically, including inflicting trauma upon them, but also drive fear into family members as well as other citizens. From a broader socio-economic perspective, such crimes clog up social intercourse; scare away investment; hurt tourism, and stifle repatriation of Guyanese.

A few analyses on crime attest to the gravity of the situation. The murder rate alone in 2019 was 15.2 per 100,000 compared with 5.3 in the US, and 5.5 for Suriname.

Relative to sentencing,

Bill Ramnarace writes (11/17/2020): “Devon Chacon, 26 years, ...home Invader, who shot and killed Abdul Ameer Subrati, a father of two children at Herstelling, East Bank Demerara, was given four (4) years imprisonment.” While I and others have still been trying to grapple with the apparent rising tide of criminality, it was reported on the following day (November 18, 2020), that a 15-year-old boy of Kitty, Georgetown, was killed by his friend.

Still fresh in our memories are the brutal murders of the Henry boys, and Haresh Singh of West Coast Berbice, and the 86-year pensioner of La Grange, West Bank Demerara. No one has been charged yet with the heinous murder of the three West Coast Berbice boys.

These and other serious (violent) crimes add to the uneasiness, and great concern of Guyanese, both at home and abroad. Their feelings have not been helped by the issue of a Level 4

travel Advisory by the US Embassy in August 2020.

This is how Guyanese’s concern is dramatised: “One can get the best job, accumulate all the wealth, enjoy all the social welfare benefits, live in the best home, have fancy vehicle(s), but as soon as he goes onto the street, he is cut down by a hail of bullets. Or even in his home, he can succumb to robbery or murder.” So, what is the point of having all these material comfort, but being deprived of adequate public security?

We know that crime cannot be fully eradicated. No matter how effective is the maintenance of law and order (and this is the primary role of government), a certain level of crime will occur. What people categorically reject is when crime, particularly serious ones, get out of control (as measured by rising rates, low detection levels (unsolved), and high acquittal rates).

The lenient sentence delivered by the Judge

PNC/APNU lawyers stirring up a storm in a teacup Dear editor, THE APNU+AFC Opposition could not find anything on which to attack the Government, and so they had to resort to saying Minister of Tourism, Ms Waldron took her ministerial oath three days before she received her certificate of renunciation of her US nationality.

And this puts her in the wrong, when APNU +AFC Ministers and MPs who were foreign nationals served for years as ministers.

Harmon was an American national, and served as a minister for years, and would have continued to do so had not the APNU+AFC shot themselves in the foot by challenging Charrandas’ status, and Harmon was badly affected.

The Courts would certainly find no intention of wrong-doing on Ms. Waldron’s part, and that her swearing-in three days early was a technicality.

Yours sincerely, Paul Validum Ramlochan

in the Devon Chacon case, has been criticised

by Freddie Kissoon, who has called upon the authorities to set up a Commission of Inquiry into the sentencing. He continues: “Some humans are unfit for civilised society; they are beyond redemption. Their uncivilised, bestial murders should be met with the State putting them to death. I do not support the general abolition of the death penalty.”

Ramnarace asserts: “No one cares for the victims of crimes and their suffering families.” Well, not exactly.

The victims of the West Coast Berbice mayhem, for example, have been promised partial relief in the form of monetary compensation. And there are efforts elsewhere to mitigate the crime prob-

lem through intervention and preventive measures.

The Spotlite Program grant of $US5 million by the United Nations and the European Union to the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, provides for the intervention and implementation of strategic measures to minimise violence against women and girls. In addition, the re-design and launch of community policing groups by the government is another useful step. But much more needs to be done to tame this monster.

For these and other programs (such as the Citizens Security Programme and the Security Sector Reform Programme) to have succeeded, they had to be integrated into a National Crime Fighting

Strategy.

Public security of which crime control is a dominant element must always be on the government’s as well as civil society’s political radar. Accordingly, I am, once again, calling upon the current government to start a conversation on crime and the penal system, as part of an effort to develop a credible crime fighting strategy.

A national conference on Crime and the Penal System could ignite or give momentum to the national conversation.

From these sources would flow a coherent set of policy measures into the government’s decision making process.

Yours sincerely, Dr. Tara Singh

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

More childcare programmes, centres to be established –– authorities will incentivise persons who offer child care services, says President Ali

IN keeping with the universal mandate of protecting and caring for children, the Government will be moving to establish more childcare programmes and centres, said the President, Dr. Irfaan Ali. It is common knowledge that every child is entitled to be nurtured in a healthy, protective and supportive environment that allows for the realisation of the fullness of his or her potential. And, everyone has a duty to ensure such an environment is cultivated for children.

To this end, President Ali said the foundation for a better tomorrow must be built on promoting greater respect for and enforcement of children’s rights, providing adequate protection and care, and strengthening children’s education.

“More day-care centres will be established for the children of employed mothers. These will relieve mothers of the burdens of having to find persons to take care of their children while they are at work. To support these initiatives, a corps of childcare providers and protectors will be trained,” said President Ali in a statement on World Children’s Day, which was observed on Friday.

The Government of Guyana has also committed to promoting the rights of every child. Key pieces of legislation relevant to childcare and child protection have been enacted by the government over the years.

Guyana is also a signatory to international agreements such as the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of the Child, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

It is for this reason that President Ali said: “Child care and protection must become the responsibility of all of our society. We acknowledge the importance of child care services provided by private individuals, groups and non-governmental organizations.”

Government, he said, will incentivise and provide support to those persons who provide such services.

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, unfortunately, has disrupted the

provision of some of these services, but the Government is confident that there will be a remission of the pandemic and restoration of normalcy, soon.

The pandemic has adversely affected children’s lives; for the greater part of this year, schools have been closed.

“The social restrictions which have been implemented, however, ought not to foreclose on opportunities for learning. We have begun to expand these opportunities for children’s learning,” said President Ali. Education remains a key element of the Government’s plan to create a better future for children. The Government has also, in a measured manner, and with due regard for children’s safety, reopened schools for students of Grades 10, 11 and 12.

“We are not just reimagining a better future for our children; we are making it happen. In this regard, we need the support of every citizen. As we celebrate World Children’s Day 2020, I urge all Guyanese to join with your Government in helping to promote the rights of the child, provide improved protection and care for them, and to strengthen their educa-

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali

tion,” said President Ali. He added: “No child should suffer the indignities associated with violations of their rights, or from a lack of a satisfactory education.

“Let us join hearts and hands as we build a more caring and compassionate Guyana, where our children can be happy, loved and be safe! In doing so, we will be creating a supportive environment, so that they can enjoy the best of what life has in store for them.”

BUILD BETTER POST-PANDEMIC WORLD Meanwhile, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) representative, Irfan Akhtar welcomed the Guyanese President and Government’s renewed commitment to children, highlighting that UNICEF’s ‘Reimagine’ campaign calls on partners, Governments, and all UNICEF supporters to build a better post-pandemic world.

“Children and young people must be included in decisions that affect their future,” said Akhtar in a UNICEF release. He called on all partners to accelerate action for children in several areas, including ensuring that all children learn, and closing the digital divide. He also urged that measures be put in place to keep children healthy by ensuring access to primary healthcare, and making vaccines affordable and available to every child, as well as support to protect the mental health of children and young people, and bring an end to abuse, gender-based violence and neglect in childhood.

The UNICEF representative also highlighted areas for action to increase access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene, address climate change, reverse child poverty and ensure an inclusive recovery for all. “We have a critical window of opportunity to reverse this child rights crisis and reimagine a better future for children,” said Akhtar.

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, in her message, called on all to reimagine a world where every child is invested in, where their safety is guaranteed and

State House on Friday night, all lit up in blue in support of children’s rights

where they know their future is limitless.

The minister, according to the release, outlined the work her ministry will be doing to meet these goals.

Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney-General Mohabir, Anil Nandlall said that investment in children is a priority in the country’s developmental agenda. He highlighted that Guyana’s Constitution recognises the welfare of children as paramount and binds the State and all Government and State agencies, when considering the interest of children, to ensure that the welfare of the child receives the top consideration.

Chairperson of the Rights of the Child Commission, Aleema Nasir urged all to ensure that children’s rights are observed and to listen to their children, especially during this time of the COVID-19 pandemic. First Lady, Arya Alli, in her message, also echoed the call to reimagine and design a world for children that is more just and more resilient. Young Guyanese from across the country, meanwhile, shared their vision of the future they wish to see, in illustrations and in video messages sent to UNICEF Guyana.

World Children’s Day is UNICEF’s global day of action for children, taking place every year on 20 November, the anniversary of the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. On this day, UNICEF advocates and raises awareness for the most pressing issues facing children. This year, WCD is taking place during one of the most extraordinary and challenging moments in history as the coronavirus pandemic and the related upheavals transform the lives of children everywhere. UNICEF’s ‘Reimagine’ campaign calls on partners, governments, and all UNICEF supporters to build a better post-pandemic world and urge that children and young people must be included in decisions that affect their future, the release concluded.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

GTA hoping for surge in tourism activity this Christmas

THE Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) is optimistic that the tourism industry will benefit during the upcoming Christmas season, given the reopening of the country’s airports last month.

Its director, Carla James believes that many persons are now inclined to travel after being unable to do so because of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

The deadly virus has affected many industries, including air travel. It is estimated that travel by air has shrunk between 59 and 62 per cent since the advent of the virus.

James said that this decline has resulted in an estimated loss of some $104B

in global business revenue in 2020.

Many local tourism and hospitality businesses have been affected financially since the COVID-19 pandemic began. However, since the reopening of the airports, these business have been slowly returning to some form of normalcy.

This trend, the GTA Director believes, will continue well into the Christmas season, as more persons, including Guyanese living abroad, would have the opportunity to travel.

“Moving into the Christmas season that’s soon approaching, we anticipate that there is going to be an increase in travel from the domestic and diaspora markets.

GTA Director, Ms. Carla James

There are many people who

homes for quite a number of

want to go out and explore

months,” she stated.

after being confined to their

She reminded that during

the Christmas season, persons enjoy spending time with their families, and this can potentially see many overseas-based Guyanese returning home to spend quality time with their loved ones.

Since the reopening of the airports on October 12, 2020, over 5000 persons have arrived in the country.

In light of these arrivals, the government has put several strict COVID-19 guidelines in place at the main ports of entry.

These include COVID-19 testing at the Cheddi Jagan and the Eugene F. Correia International Airports. Persons who have a PCR test older than 72 hours prior to arrival at the airport are required to take the test.

9

Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony recently disclosed that so far, 11 arriving passengers have tested positive for the virus He assured the public that the government is taking all precautions to ensure that no passengers comes into the country with the virus.

“We keep monitoring once we detect a positive person; we have to do contact tracing for all persons who these passengers would have been in contact with… on their flight coming.

Where they’ve been sitting and the passengers who sat around them would have to be informed and so we’re able to do that as well,” he explained.

St. Cuthbert’s Mission records 113 COVID-19 recoveries –– Health Minister says monitoring continues ST. CUTHBERT’S MISSION recorded 113 COVID-19 recoveries as of Friday, and Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, anticipates that the situation will significantly improve in the coming days.

The minister who was at the time providing a COVID-19 update, also informed that 11 symptomatic patients were being closely monitored by health officials.

The indigenous community located on the Mahaica River in Region Four went into a fourteen-day lockdown from November 7, 2020, after several teachers and healthcare workers tested positive for the deadly virus.

The community began testing residents on November 1, 2020 when one member who travelled out of the community was tested positive.

Minister Anthony disclosed that rapid testing had revealed a total of 269 cases in the community.

“We had a number of cases there and we have been monitoring the situation.

We have staff on the ground today [and] we recorded 156 cases which came down from the 269 that it was a couple of days ago, and that is because we have been monitoring people. And once they meet the ten-day asymptomatic deadline we discharged them,

time the current numbers would drop significantly.

Minister said, too, that progress was being made in the fight against COVID-19, and the ministry intended to continue engaging the village council to ensure that there was not a second surge in cases.

Toshao, of St Cuth-

Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony

so we are happy that we are making progress in terms of discharges,” stated Minister Anthony.

The Health Minister further added that the medical team was monitoring 11 persons who were symptomatic in order to ensure that their condition did not worsen or they did not spread the virus to other residents.

“We are paying closer attention to them than the persons who are asymptomatic because we don’t want anything to go wrong with them, but just in case if their situations worsen we would

be able to bring them out to the hospital,” the minister said.

Minister Anthony disclosed that most of the 269 persons that tested positive for the virus were asymptomatic. They were not aware that they had contracted the virus until being tested.

Although the lockdown ended on Friday, Minister Anthony said it was too early to state whether a second lockdown in the community will be implemented.

Further, he noted that, given the current trend, he anticipated that in ten days’

bert’s, Beverly Clenkian, in a recent interview with the Guyana Chronicle, had stated that persons had been much more compliant with the COVID-19 preventative guidelines.

“More persons have been following the COVID-19 preventative guidelines since the lockdown began, so I’m

glad for that. And I know that if the persons continue to follow them, we would be able to control the situation here in St. Cuthbert,” the toshao said.

She said that she believed that with the compliance the situation in the community can quickly come under control.

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Ruling in ‘Saga’ murder PI postponed again MAGISTRATE Fabayo Azore, has again, deferred her ruling in the Preliminary Inquiry (PI) into the 2017 murder of Godfrey Scipio, called “Saga”.

Former detective, corporal Derwin Eastman, and former constable, Jameson Williams, were jointly charged with murdering the popular D’Urban Street businessman at Kitty, during the course of a robbery.

The case is being heard at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, where the Magistrate has now set November 27 as the date for ruling.

Ranks from the Police Major Crime Unit were able to arrest the then serving policemen, days after the alleged ‘trigger-man’, Aubrey Bobb, was charged with the October 12, 2017 murder.

Bobb is alleging that Eastman was the mastermind and had supplied him with the gun to carry out the hit.

The police arrested

Bobb one day after reviewing CCTV footage from the Kitty hotel, where 64-yearold Scipio was shot and robbed. He had reportedly confessed that he had borrowed the gun to commit the crime. Bobb had previously served time for robbery.

Reports are that Scipio was leaving the hotel in the company of a female friend, and was about to enter his car, which was parked in front of the building when he was accosted by a gunman.

The gunman, according to the police, discharged a round, hitting Scipio in the abdomen. He later relieved him of his jewellery before escaping on foot in a northern direction.

Scipio was rushed to a private city hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The stolen jewellery was never recovered.

Bobb is currently awaiting a High Court trial for the crime.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

UG offering 1000 on-line courses THE University of Guyana (UG) has reported that it is now offering more than 1,000 courses Online, as part of its “Blueprint 2040” strategy framework, and sees the public statement, “UWI Going to Guyana” not as a national policy statement but rather one of “grand intention”.

The University has said in a statement that it is currently in preliminary talks with the Government of Guyana on the matter of Online education and scholarships under the programme at reference.

“The national university has not ceded its mandate and responsibilities, and UG is now offering more than 1,000 courses Online as part of ‘The University of Guyana Blueprint 2040’ strategy framework,” the university said, adding: “UG also routinely collaborates with over 100 regional and international institutions, and recognises the undoubted scope for and benefits of a

variety of higher education players in the national space.

“The university, therefore, continues to assist in ensuring these matters are approached strategically, inclusively and synergistically.”

At 57-year-old learning institution, perhaps the country’s oldest to date, was founded in 1963 before independence, and not only has the distinction of being the embodiment of a nation’s

promise, but will continue to work towards fulfilling that promise with all progressive entities in the best interest of the university, faculty, students and people of the beloved country.

Teen charged with murdering Mahaicony businesswoman freed AFTER spending the last four years on remand, an 18-year-old, was, on Friday, freed of a murder charge which alleged that he bludgeoned Mahaicony businesswoman, Bibi Nesha Shairoon to death, in 2016.

The teen was on trial before Justice Navindra Singh and a 12-member mixed jury at the Demerara High Court.

He had denied that, between October 15 and October 17, 2016, at Lot 4, Novar, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara (ECD), he murdered Shairoon called “Shakeela”.

He was tried as a juvenile since he was 14 years old when he was charged with the capital offence.

The State was represented by prosecutor, Tuanna Hardy, while Attorney-at-law, Bernard DaSilva, represented the teen.

The jury, after deliberations, returned a unanimous “not guilty” verdict in favour of the teen.

Last year, co-accused Devanand Rampersaud, called “Juju”, a 27-year-old former fisherman of Berbice, was sentenced to life imprisonment with the possibility

Bibi Nesha Shairoon called “Shakeela”

of parole after serving 25 years. He had opted to plead guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter.

Shairoon’s bound body was discovered in her home on October 17, 2016, by a worried relative who had not seen her in two days.

The woman, who lived alone, operated a grocery store that also sold garden chemicals, cell-phone cards and cell-phones. The store was located in the lower flat of her house.

She was found with her feet and hands tied, and with what appeared to be marks of violence about her body,

primarily her head.

The intruders had gained access to the house by ripping out a few boards of the wall on the lower flat, and after ransacking the place, carted off a number of valuables, including money and phone cards.

The teenager became a suspect after residents revealed that he used to help the woman in the shop, and had had an argument with her.

Rampersaud had confessed to beating the woman in the head with a frying pan, but accused the teen of being the mastermind of the murder and robbery.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

$2B to vaccinate 20 per cent of population in Latin America, Caribbean –– PAHO to support countries in facing challenges, cost of future COVID-19 vaccine DELIVERING vaccines for COVID-19 will be challenging and costly, “so it is vital that countries start preparing now,” said Jarbas Barbosa, Assistant Director of the Pan American Health Organisation during a press briefing on Friday.

Projections for Latin America and the Caribbean show that vaccinating 20 per cent of the population will cost more than $2 billion.

PAHO is already working with countries in the Americas to facilitate access to COVID-19 vaccines under the COVAX Mechanism, and will offer them the option of purchasing the vaccines as a bloc, through PAHO’s Revolving Fund.

“As of today, 28 self-financing countries have signed agreements with the COVAX facility, and an additional 10 countries are eligible for support under the COVAX Advance Market Commitment,” said Barbosa.

PAHO has also partnered with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the European Union (EU) and other financial institutions and donors to secure the funding needed for lower-income countries

in the region to join.

Dr. Barbosa highlighted that “while the region continues to face challenges in responding to the virus, the past week has brought some good news regarding the development of potential COVID-19 vaccines.

This is encouraging, and we’re eager to review the accompanying data.” But, he noted, “Only a vaccine that has proven safe and effective will be approved by regulators, endorsed by the WHO and ultimately be made available through COVAX.” A COVID-19 vaccine is still some months away, “so measures to reduce the spread of the virus, control transmission, and save lives must continue; wearing masks, maintaining physical distance, avoiding unnecessary gatherings and following the recommendations of local and national health authorities.”

Since the pandemic began, more than 23 million people have been infected with COVID in our region, and more than 680,000 have died as a result of the virus. Over the last week, the region of the Americas reported nearly 1.5 million cases and 19,000 deaths

due to COVID-19, Barbosa said.

SIGNIFICANT DRIVER North America, including the United States, Mexico and Canada “remains a significant driver of new infections,” and in Central America, the COVID response is being affected by Hurricanes Eta and Iota. In most Andean countries, cases have decreased, although Brazil is seeing increases in cases and deaths in some states and Uruguay, the only country with cluster transmission, has seen spikes in some areas of its border with Brazil, Barbosa explained.

“It is clear that as this virus continues to actively spread in our region, countries must remain vigilant.

Every country must continue to monitor their epidemic situation, and should new infections arise, they must adapt their responses quickly to prevent further outbreaks,” he said.

In addition, “We must make the most of the life-saving vaccines that are already available, to prevent other outbreaks of severe diseases such as polio, measles and others,” Barbosa said, noting that PAHO is working closely with governments to review their immunization

programs, share regulatory information and strengthen their cold chain capacity to ensure a smooth and quick rollout of new COVID-19 vaccines when they are approved.

Barbosa noted that vaccination rates continue to fall in the Americas, and have been impacted by COVID disruptions, with a decrease in demand for vaccination services. “This year, nine countries in the region of the Americas reported a total of 8,479 cases of measles, including eight deaths, and five countries reported 56 cases of diphtheria, including 16 deaths. Both of these diseas-

es are fully preventable with vaccines,” he said.

PAHO and UNICEF have already kicked off the purchasing process for COVID-19 vaccines, by inviting vaccine manufacturers around the world to apply to become a supplier for the 186 countries that have joined the COVAX facility, which aims to deploy two billion doses of the vaccines globally, with priority of protecting health workers and those at high risk of severe disease. Barbosa also noted that there are 11 potential COVID-19 vaccines in advanced trials.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

Outnumbered by the Sharmas, Jaipaul apologises to Nandlall

FORMER Junior Public Infrastructure Minister, Jaipaul Sharma has apologised to Attorney-General, Anil Nandlall for his erroneous and allegedly libelous comments on his Facebook page.

Sharma, on Friday arrived at the decision following a caucus with his family, in which he was outvoted by a vast majority.

“I had to agree with them, since I was outnumbered, and since I believe in democracy,” Sharma stated on his Facebook page, adding: “My family all say that they are concerned for my safety, and they do not want a ‘Die Hard Christmas’ but a Merry Christmas. I therefore issue an apology to the Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir A. Nandlall.”

Not yet done with the matter, Sharma said: “In addition, I will close my Facebook account after five days of this post, during which period I will not make

any further post about the Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir A. Nandlall, if he discontinues with his legal action against me.”

Nandlall recently sued People National Congress Reform (PNC/R) member, James Bond and Sharma, individually, for damages in excess of $25M for each of the alleged libelous statements they are accused of having made; in excess of $25M each for special damages, and in excess of $25M each for aggravated damages.

Bond referred to Nandlall by certain derogatory remarks, and said he knows for a fact that clients gave the law firm millions of US dollars to facilitate the purchase of land and equipment.

The Attorney-General said that the publications have the potential to sully his reputation, standing and integrity, especially given Facebook’s reach.

Nandlall is also seeking court costs, and any other

Attorney-General Anil Nandlall

order the court may deem just to grant.

Nandlall’s lawyers had written to Sharma, informing

him that his Facebook post was not only libelous, but malicious and completely false, and is causing damage

Jaipaul Sharma

to the standing, integrity, and reputation of the law firm, and to Nandlall’s reputation.

The Attorney-General

had demanded that Sharma retract the offensive publication, and issue an apology immediately to him and the law firm.

He had further informed Sharma that he reserves the right to institute legal proceedings against him; however, the apology may mitigate the quantum of compensation the firm is seeking.

Sharma originally started politics with his father’s party, Justice For All Party (JFAP), but later switched to the People’s National Congress (PNC) months before the March 2020 elections.

The switch, Sharma had also stated on his Facebook page was as a result of an auspicious dream he had about former President David Granger being his father. Sharma related that in his dream, he recalled calling out to the former President, “Jai! Jai! Jai!” Jai is a Hindi word which, when translated into English, means victory.

Families of fallen police ranks receive assistance

Several of the beneficiaries with members of the Fallen Heroes Foundation at the Police Officers’ Mess Annex, at Eve Leary on Friday

THE Guyana Police Force’s Fallen Heroes Foundation Inc. on Friday held a donation ceremony to assist the children of those members of the Force who would have lost their lives in the

line of duty.

The ceremony was held at the Police Officers’ Mess Annex, at Eve Leary, and was attended by Commissioner of Police (ag), Nigel Hoppie; Chairman of the

Fallen Heroes Foundation, Bishop Raphael Massiah; Force Chaplin, Rev. Patrick Doolichand; Secretary Rev. Winston Assanah, and representatives Messrs Victor Grimmond and Derrick An-

derson.

Bishop Massiah, in brief remarks stated that he was honoured to be giving the donations to the awardees, commended their hard work, and advised them to always

aim high.

He also pointed out the importance of the Foundation since it was established.

The Commissioner, who handed out the donations to the families, noted the

importance of the Guyana Police Force’s involvement in the lives of the children, and implored those who attended the ceremony to always be disciplined.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

Doctor found dead at home

A 60-year-old medical doctor and lecturer of suburban Marigold Street, Roxanne Burnham Gardens, South Ruimveldt was discovered lying motionless in a chair in the living room of his one-flat wooden home on Friday.

Dead is Dr. Wesley Torrington, who, according to the police, lived alone and was last seen alive on Monday last by one of his neighbours. He had reportedly told the said neighbour that he was not feeling too well, but after not seeing or hearing

from him since, the latter decided to call out to him on Friday, at about 11:00hrs.

After not getting any response, the neighbour called in the police, who, on arrival, discovered the doctor motionless inside the house.

His body was checked for marks of violence but none was seen.

Police said checks conducted on the home showed no signs of forced entry, neither was it ransacked.

The body is currently at the Lyken Funeral Home awaiting an autopsy, while

Shopkeeper remanded on ganja-trafficking charge A 35-year-old shopkeeper, who was allegedly caught with a large amount of cannabis in his home, on Friday, appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and was remanded to prison by Magistrate Leron Daly.

Richard Thompson of Meadow Brook Gardens, Georgetown, pleaded not guilty to possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.

The charge alleged that Thompson, on November 17, 2019, at Lot 298 Meadow Brook Gardens, Georgetown, had in his possession 2098 grams of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking.

According to information provided, on the day in question, at about 13:40 hours, police, while performing mobile patrol duty, received information which led them to the Meadow

Brook address. When the ranks arrived, they identified themselves to Thompson who was standing at the door. Thompson hurriedly ran inside the house.

Noticing his suspicious behaviour, the ranks forced open the gate, and entered the building. Thompson with a white bulky salt bag, ran to the back of the house and entered a room, where he was seen throwing the bag through a door into the yard.

The bag was retrieved and when opened in Thompson’s presence, it reportedly contained six bulky transparent bags with what appeared to be cannabis.

Subsequently, Thompson was told of the allegation and was arrested. He was later charged for the offence.

The matter was adjourned to January 5, 2021.

Man gets six months imprisonment for stealing toilet paper DIVENDRA BISSOON, 42, of Albion, East Berbice, Corentyne, was sentenced to six months imprisonment after he pleaded guilty to a simple larceny charge.

Bissoon was arrested on November 18, after he

allegedly stole one bale of house proud toilet paper valued at $2,500.

He appeared before Magistrate Renita Singh at the Albion Magistrate’s Court, on Friday, where the charge was read to him.

DEAD: Dr. Wesley Torrington

investigations continue.

Meanwhile, close friend, Pastor Wendell Jeffrey said of the late Dr. Torrington, “He was a scholar, spiritual leader, professor, confidant, walking medical encyclopedia, and so much more.

I have never met a more humble and well-rounded medical doctor.”

One of his students, Luke Pearson, said Dr. Torrington was one of the most brilliant doctors he had ever met.

“His dedication to the progression of medical education is almost unmatched;

he was always looking for some way to restructure the way in which we were educated, so that it would be better,” Pearson said, adding: “He was also one of the few persons who believed in his students' ability to overcome any struggle, and even provided avenues for us to do so. He will be missed within the medical fraternity; we've lost one of the greatest minds, but we're still left with the priceless knowledge he imparted. We will make you proud, Dr. Torrington.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

Cops looking for woman who escaped through toilet window at police station

A POLICE constable is under close arrest as a team from the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) is investigating the circumstances sur-

rounding the disappearance of a prisoner at the Springlands Police Station, East Berbice, Corentyne on Wednesday last.

According to Command-

er of District Six, Jairam Ramlakhan, at around 17:10 hrs on Wednesday, ranks attached to the Springlands Police Station went to the Moleson Creek Stelling and processed Jankie Tapsie,30, and Rishiram Singh, 33, a taxi driver, who were both extradited from Suriname for the murder of Bibi Ramjit, 86, of La Grange, West Bank Demerara.

The duo were taken to the Springlands Police Station and were booked pending the arrival of a team to take them to CID head office in Georgetown when Tapsie also known as “Samantha” asked to use the washroom.

She was escorted by a male constable, who left as she locked the door of the toilet from the inside.

After sometime passed and she did not return, the rank returned to the washroom and made several calls that went unanswered. After

managing to open the door, the rank reported the woman had disappeared and the window above the toilet was observed to be open.

Dead: Bibi Ramjit

The constable raised an alarm and a search conducted around the area to locate the woman proved futile.

Commander Ramlakhan said teams are on the ground pursuing all leads in order to locate the woman who is the alleged mastermind behind the murder of the pensioner.

A notably upset Ramlakhan also revealed that the incident was unacceptable and if the ranks were found culpable, then they should be held accountable.

“A team from the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) is here to investigate and whoever is responsible would be dealt with and charged criminally. We have to make people

example and I hope the investigation is completed quickly and they recommend criminal charges because this nonsense has to

Wanted: Jankie Tapsie called “Samantha”

stop,” he said.

The police have since issued a wanted bulletin for the arrest of Jankie Tapsie for murder and escaping from lawful custody. Persons with information are asked to contact the nearest police station or call 2292289, 220-2222, 227-1149 or 911.

Her last know addresses were given as Devisieweg #7 District Commenwjne, Suriname and Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara.

It is alleged that Tapsie was the mastermind behind the murder of Ramjit, whose body was discovered gagged with her hands and feet tied on her bed in the upper flat

of her Lot 63 Old Road, La Grange, West Bank Demerara (WBD) house.

The elderly woman operated a grocery shop on the lower flat of her home and, according to police, she was discovered on Sunday, October 25 at 17:00hrs by one of her customers.

According to a report from police, the customer, a 59-year-old farmer of Schoonard, WBD, went to purchase eddoes from Ramjit on Sunday but she did not have change for his $5,000.

He told her that he will drop her money later and went away.

According to the police, at about 17:00hrs, the farmer returned and observed the shop door and the back door to the upper-flat of the house wide open. He called out several times for Ramjit but got no response.

As a result, he proceeded to the upper flat of the house and looked into a bedroom and saw the businesswoman lying motionless on her back on her bed with her feet and hands tied. The Guyana Chronicle understands that the woman who lived alone was in the process of selling out the items in her store with the aim of closing down since she was also robbed sometime in July of this year.

Cash recovered, suspects arrested after allegedly robbing businessman

SWIFT work by policemen in Berbice led to the discovery of stolen cash, both in local and foreign currency and the arrest of three suspects, on Friday morning.

The suspects identified as a 40-year-old businessman of Annandale, East Coast Demerara; a 56- year-old taxi driver of Chateau Margot; and a 38-year-old labourer of Grove, East Bank Demerara, were arrested at Liverpool Village, in a white Toyota Allion, after they allegedly broke into a car owned by a boat owner and carted off a large sum of cash.

The cash was in a haversack.

According to information received, at approximately 10:15 hrs, businessman, boat owner/fisherman, Deonarine Harripersaud, called “Choana”, 42, of Number Nauth Village, East Berbice, Corentyne, earlier in the morning, had visited two commercial banks where he withdrew an undisclosed sum of local cash.

He then proceeded to several locations to pay workers.

While at Number 66 Village, he stopped, parked and secured his car, leaving a haversack with the remaining cash in the front seat. The man then left to reach a worker at

the Number 66 Fishery and after spending about 10 minutes he returned and noticed the haversack was missing.

Checks on the car revealed that the lock on the front passenger side of the vehicle was tampered with.

The incident was reported to the police, who, acting on intelligence, intercepted the car which was proceeding west along the Liverpool Public Road.

A search of the vehicle and occupants revealed the stolen cash. The driver and two occupants were promptly arrested and the vehicle impounded.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

GTT donates SIMs with data to push on-line learning

Huis'T Dieren Primary School pupils

THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) has connected over 195 students and teachers with Online schooling through its recent SIM and 5GB data donation to several schools.

According to GTT, the donation is intended to meet the needs of students and teachers who are unable to connect with each other due to financial constraints.

GTT’s Public Relations Manager, Jasmin Harris said the company is delighted to give to such a worthy cause.

“We are always grateful for opportunities where we can contribute to the benefit of our children’s tomorrow.

It is our hope that these students and teachers will capitalise on the monthly 5G contribution from our company,” Harris said.

Among schools benefit-

ting from the programme are DeHoop, No. 10, Karamat, Helena, Huis'T Dieren, and Ren Primary Schools, and Charity Secondary School.

Senior Assistant Master at the Charity Secondary School, Mr. Dhirendra Deonarine said the donation has been really helpful in connecting with his students.

“Most of my students are from the Pomeroon area, and I am from Charity, so it has really helped us in connecting with each other to push Online learning,” Mr. Deonarine said.

Sharing similar sentiments was Helena Primary’s Grade Three Assistant Mistress, Ms. Indera Jebode, who, besides extending her gratitude to the telecommunications company, noted that its data donation has been well received by both pupils and teachers at her school.

Mr. Martin Samaroo, a teacher at the Huis’T Dieren Primary said he made calls to the telecommunications company for Internet connectivity with his pupils and is grateful for their immediate response.

“GTT has demonstrated that they are a company that cares about the education system in our country from grassroot level,” Sir Samaroo said, adding: “Of the 33 students in my class, only 13 could afford Internet, so this donation will go a long way in ensuring that my class would be savvy with virtual learning.”

Only recently, GTT signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Education to zero rate several educational websites in support of Online learning in Guyana, amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Rotary Club of Garden City receives generous support

At the Rotary Club of the Garden City fundraiser last Sunday

THE Rotary Club of the Garden City (Georgetown) Guyana last Sunday hosted their first fundraiser, which saw hundreds of patrons descending on the Tropical Grill (Take-away and Curb-side pick up) lunch to lend their support to the newly chartered organisation.

According to a release from ‘Rotary’, generous support was also given to their ‘Reusable Bags’ project, which is one of its signature activities in its quest to promote healthy living through the reduction of waste and single-use plastic bags.

The reusable bags come in three sizes, and are pro-

duced locally from a durable type of fabric.

The event, the Club said, saw a 98 per cent turnout of members, who volunteered their time and also partook in what was their first activity since their launch, and under strict COVID-19 protocols.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

Campbell fails as ...

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ond wicket.

The Caribbean side bowled steadily, but Ravindra and Nicholls resisted to carry the home team to 81 for one at the lunch interval and batted through the entire second session to take them to 198 for one at the tea break.

Left-arm pacer Raymon Reifer broke the stand with the fourth ball after tea, when Nicholls was caught behind for 76, edging a back-foot drive at a rising delivery, and was the same bowler, when Ravindra drove to mid-on for a single to reach his milestone from 173 balls.

Alzarri Joseph removed Ravindra three overs later, when the left-hander miscued a pull and was caught at deep fine leg after batting 4½ hours, facing 187 balls and stroking 10 fours and two sixes.

But the Windies bowlers

met another roadblock when Joe Carter joined South Africa-born left-hander Devon Conway and they consolidated for New Zealand ‘A’ with an unbroken stand of 81 for the fourth wicket before captain Cole McConchie ushered them off.

No Windies bowler finished with more than one wicket, and Conway, who became eligible for New Zealand selection in August, was not out on 46 and Carter was not out on 41.

The first Test between the Black Caps and the Windies starts on December 3 at Seddon Park in Hamilton and the second Test begins on December 11 at the Basin Reserve in Wellington.

Before that, the two teams contest three Twenty20 Internationals on November 27 at Eden Park in Auckland, and November 29 and 30 at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui.

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GCB Over-40 T20 ...

COVID-19.

He said with the number of veterans who have been out of action for months with limited ways to keep game-fit or just stay physically on point, especially during these times, fitness,in older folks is essential.

With permission given from the local COVID-19 Task Force, sports, such as cricket, are now easing their way back into live action and GCB secretary Anand Sanasie said the tournament will be played with no fans and strict guidelines will be followed by partakers.

Organisers urged all players and teams to continue following the pandemic protocols, especially with the competition’s start set for today at three venues.

Over at Everest ground, the first of two matches will see WD Masters battle the home team Everest Masters from 09:30hrs.

The second encounter at Everest bowls off at 13:45hrs with KV Construction Masters tackling the veterans of Regal Masters.

Over at Enmore ground, RP Construction Legends will square off against WD Mavericks from 09:30hrs while the second match features a showdown between Sand Piper Masters and Bel Air RUBiS Ultra Tec, rounding off what should be an exciting opening round.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

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West Indies T20 team gets new design CRICKET West Indies (CWI) and the West Indies team today revealed their new T20 International (T20I) shirts as they prepare to face New Zealand in a three-match T20I series starting on November 27 in Auckland.

The T20I shirt features an eye-catching, contemporary maroon and yellow geometric pattern on the front, with contrast maroon sleeves. The bold, vibrant colours and design are a trademark of the #MenInMaroon, one of the most successful, exciting and skilful teams in world cricket. The playing shirts are made with a premium, lightweight performance stretch fabric and are available in both short- and long-sleeve versions.

The new playing jersey has already sparked great interest among fans who first saw it on West Indies’ social media channels and it com-

pletes the new range of West Indies playing and training kits, designed by official team kit supplier, Castore, and available to buy immediately through the Castore website - www.castore.com/ collections/west-indies.

The T20I shirt will be worn for all T20I matches in the build-up to the ICC T20 World Cup and in all West Indies Women’s T20I matches.

West Indies are the defending and two-time men’s T20 World Champions, having won World Cups in 2012 in Sri Lanka and again in 2016 in India.

Dominic Warne, CWI’s Commercial Director, said: “We’re really excited for the new T20I shirt to debut with the West Indies Men’s team in New Zealand on the road to the ICC T20 World Cup. “We know that fans will love the bold design and rally behind the #MenInMaroon for this Series and throughout

2021. Castore has created a superb range of playing and training gear that have been in demand since launching prior to the Sandals Tour of England 2020 and we expect to see great demand from West Indies fans, the most passionate cricket fans in the world.”

Pascal Lafitte, Head of Team Partnership at Castore added: “We are thrilled to be revealing the new T20I shirt to West Indies fans. The kit shows Castore’s desire to be different with audacious designs, and this is testimony of all the hard work that has gone on behind the scenes to make it a success. We can’t wait to watch the West Indies put it through the paces in New Zealand over the coming weeks.”

Fans who sign up to the West Indies fan newsletter - https://www.windiescricket.com/updates will have the opportunity to get an

West Indies Tour of New Zealand warm-up game…

Campbell fails as West Indies face uphill task (CMC) – Opener John Campbell failed to ease concerns about his durability and was dismissed early, after solid top-order batting from New Zealand ‘A’ – led by a hundred from Rachin Ravindra – put West Indies bowling under pressure in their three-day tour match yesterday.

Campbell made only four before fellow opener Kraigg Brathwaite, not out on two, and left-hander Darren Bravo, not out on eight, batted through almost half-hour to carry the Windies to 17 for one, in reply to the home team’s first innings total of 308 for three declared, at the close on the first day of the match at John Davies Oval.

The visitors’ batsmen were given an object lesson in occupation of the crease and their bowlers an early indication of the hard toil they may endure in the

forthcoming two-Test series against the Black Caps, with a steady 112 from Ravindra that anchored the New Zealand ‘A’ batting.

The Windies think-tank are hoping that they can get solid starts from their openers in the Test series in an effort to blunt the Black Caps’ pace attack of Tim Southee, Trent Boult and Neil Wagner, in particular, on typically helpful pitches.

But Campbell failed to reassure them that he can bring more stability to the top of the batting order, when he chased after a wide, short, lifting delivery from pacer Blair Tickner and was bowled, dragging the ball into his stumps, in the second over of the innings.

Bravo came to the crease and soaked up the pressure from the New Zealand ‘A’ bowlers with Brathwaite before he loosened the shackles with a typically fluent cover

drive for four off Tickner.

Bravo and Brathwaite batted through the remainder of play and will return today, hoping to get their groove ahead of the Tests.

Earlier, West Indies met defiance from Ravindra and Test batsman Will Young through the first hour, the New Zealand ‘A’ opening pair putting on 43 for the first wicket.

Chemar Holder made the breakthrough, when he had Young caught down the leg-side for 27 from an under-edge at a short ball, three overs after the morning drinks break.

For the next 2 ¾ hours, the Windies bowlers were made to toil on the hard, true pitch, and Ravindra found Test batsman and fellow left-hander Henry Nicholls a stable partner, putting on TURN TO PAGE 20 155 for the sec-

exclusive team kit discount throughout the tour to New Zealand as well as receive exclusive content and the latest

team and series news. Fans in the Caribbean can also benefit from free shipping when spending EC$350/

BD$260/GY$26,790/ J$18,845/TT$870 on any of the new West Indies team kit ranges.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

Sport Ministry weighs in on ‘Big Man Cricket’ (PRESS RELEASE) - The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport has noted the reports in the media today (20th November 2020) with captions “CWI says approval for ‘Big Man Cricket’ must come from territorial boards” in the Guyana Chronicle and “CWI tells Big Man Cricket organisers to get GCB approval” in the Kaieteur News.

The ministry has seen and read the email communication emanating from

the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Cricket West Indies (CWI), Johnny Grave cited in the news reports and respectfully directs attention to the statement contained therein by the CEO, “In short, in order to officially host your Big Man Cricket Tournament in Guyana, it is advisable that you solicit the Guyana Cricket Board’s approval or no-objection by them.”

The ministry agrees with the statement from the CEO in this regard but notes that

this was not accurately reflected in the reported caption and the content of the media report referenced above. The Ministry respectfully directs attention to the word “advisable” used by the CEO and underscores an important distinction with the use of the word “required” as stated and/or suggested in the news reports. “Advisable” does not mean “required”.

For the sake of definitive clarity, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport for

the Government of Guyana reverts to its previous statement on the issue contained in the approval/imprimatur conferred on the ‘Big Man Cricket’ tournament i.e. “… the approval or imprimatur for any sport tournament by respective sport Associations/Federations, while inherently beneficial, is not strictly required unless it is a vehicle for advancement within the structure of a world/international sport body.”

Haitian football boss banned from sport (CMC) - Haiti soccer federation president Yves Jean-Bart was banned from the sport for life yesterday, following accusations of systemic sexual abuse of female players.

The FIFA ethics committee found Jean-Bart guilty of “having abused his position and sexually harassed and abused various female players, including minors”.

He was also fined

The president of FHF of Haiti, Yves Jean-Bart

one million Swiss francs (US$1.1 million).

Jean-Bart has denied the allegations, which involve national team players. The accusations were first revealed by British newspaper, The Guardian in April.

The abuse is said to have happened at the country’s national training centre at Croix-des-Bouquets, which FIFA helped fund. It was known as ‘The Ranch’.

GFF preps for ... tration to prepare for the return of football.

“The UEFA Assist Team has been very impressed with the quality and attention to detail shown by the Guyana Football Federation in developing the ‘Bounce-back’ action plan,” said Eva Pasquier, Head of International Relations at UEFA. “This has been evident right from the top of the organisation and the president, Wayne Forde, has fully supported the initiative, participating fully in all sessions and inspiring his leadership team to be creative in their approach.”

She continued: “I would like to congratulate the ‘Bounceback’ manager, Ian Greenwood, in particular for an excellent piece of work preparing for the resumption of football on the pitch and looking at how to connect with all football players, coaches, referees and volunteers.”

The 17-member Task Force, which will meet weekly for an initial period of one month, is made up of a wide range of stakeholders from across the football ecosystem. This is to ensure that all voices are heard

and included in decision-making during this crucial process.

CONCACAF Senior Projects Manager Howard McIntosh, who has also been involved in the process, said: “COVID-19 has changed the world and football is no exception. It is critical that all member associations and

national teams establish a framework for operation in a COVID-19 world. We salute the GFF’s efforts in this regard.”

“The GFF has continued to implement best practices in football leading to many of its successes on and off the field. It has sought out and

As the head of Haitian soccer since 2000, Jean-Bart “wielded huge power…and has high-level connections into the government, political and legal systems,” Human Rights Watch said.

Haitian state authorities have been urged by the advocacy group to investigate the allegations and protect the players, who also said they were intimidated and threatened.

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participated in numerous programmes to improve as an association, using this downtime efficiently and effectively as it plans to return to play. This makes the GFF a model in many ways. This type of drive to succeed must be heralded and emulated.

Photo name: Forde.

Novak reaches ATP last four

(BBC) - Novak Djokovic moved past Alexander Zverev in straight sets to reach the last four of ATP Finals.

The Serb world number one beat German Zverev 6-3, 7-6 (7-4) at O2 Arena in London.

Djokovic, seeking a record-equalling sixth title at the end-of-season tournament, was pushed much more in the second set but raised his level at the crucial time in the tie-break.

He will play Dominic Thiem in the last four today at 14:00hrs GMT. That match is live on BBC One and BBC Sport website.

US Open champion Thiem progressed as winner of Group London 2020 with Djokovic going through in second position in Group Tokyo 1970.

The other semi-final is between Rafael Nadal and Daniil Medvedev who first played a dead rubber against Diego Schwartzman at 20:00hrs GMT yesterday.

“I felt great. In the first set he had a couple of breakpoint chances and I managed to serve well in the important moments,” said 33-year-old Djokovic.

“In contrast to the match against Daniil, I found the right shots at the right time. I have tremendous respect for Sascha, who is a great player and it is not easy to return 140mph first serves.

“It was anybody’s game for most of the match.”

DJOKOVIC QUELLS ZVEREV FIGHTBACK IN SECOND SET Their five previous meetings had all been won in straight sets without any of them going to a tie-break and it seemed as though this match would follow the pattern as Djokovic, who was victorious in three of them, dominated the early stages.

He was into the groove with a love hold, while

Zverev gave up his first service game in predictable fashion, conceding the break with a double fault.

Zverev did bring up two break-back points at 2-4 but first serves and cleanhitting from the baseline helped Djokovic see them off with little fuss, before the Serb sealed the set with a trademark backhand down the line.

The second set was much more competitive with Zverev twice shouting “come on” when saving two break points at 2-2. As ever, though, the differential between his first and second serves was key to the match, with the 2018 champion winning 83% of points on his first delivery and only 35% on his second.

Zverev twice came within two points of the set when Djokovic was serving, but the 17-time Grand Slam champion remained solid at key moments, as they eventually played their first tiebreak together.

The 23-year-old moved to a 2-0 lead but Djokovic quickly levelled and then got the decisive mini-break with a backhand cross-court winner for 5-3.

“Novak served incredibly well, I thought,” said Zverev. “I had to go very far back to return his serve.

It was very difficult for me.

“I started playing really well in the second set, so a few points decided the set.”

Looking ahead to his semi-final against Austrian Thiem, Djokovic added: “Obviously earlier in his career Dominic played his best on clay but being one of the hardest workers on tour, and most dedicated player, found his A-game on other surfaces, and his first Slam came on a hard court earlier this year in New York.

“I played him here last year and lost 7-6 in the third set; it was a thrilling match. Hopefully we have another great match - with a different outcome.”

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER Saturday, November 21, 2020 COMPLIMENTS OF XTRA ENERGY DRINK – STABROEK BAZAAR (Tel: 683-9500) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD – 83 Garnett street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ:

(1) Chris Gayle-1627 runs (58 matches) (2) Martin Guptill-2536 runs (88 matches)

TODAY’S QUIZ:

(1) Who has taken most wickets for the WI in T20 Int’ls to date?

(2) Who has taken most wickets for Nz in T20 Int’l cricket to date?

The GFF COVID-19 Task Force

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 21, 2020

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Blairmont Blazers, Cold Fusion T20 battle on Sunday at Tuschen ground … TCC, Supreme Petroleum sponsor tourney

Cold Fusion cricket club team

THE Tuschen Cricket Club (TCC)/Supreme Petroleum will be hosting its first T20 match since the pandemic, which will be played under strict COVID-19 mandates.

Tomorrow’s action will see the home team of the West Side, Cold Fusion Cricket Club, (CFCC) do battle against the Ancient County team; Blairmont Blazers (BB).

The visiting team brings some experience with a few junior national players in Marvan Prashad, Nigel Deodat, Seon Glasgow, Javed Karim and Kevon Jahwahir among highly talented

Guyana players who will be on show.

The one-day event is the brainchild of Director Mr Nazil Khan of Supreme Petroleum of Tuschen on the East Bank of Essequibo and Deputy Commander of Region #3 Mr Boodnarine Persaud.

Commander Persaud who is also the former president of CFCC, said the match will be played under very strict conditions which fall under the COVID-19 guidelines, outlined by the government’s Task Force.

With no fans allowed, organisers promised

that those in attendance will be required to wear their face masks upon entry to the Tuschen ground.

Match rules for the tourney will feature a 2-innings 20/20 affair with a 7-minute break between innings. Each team is allowed a maximum of 4 changes in the second innings. Officiating will be done by the board’s umpires.

Bowl-off time is set for 09:30hrs with guest appearances from special invitees - Archie Mohan of Hawaian Arctic Cricket Club of Canada, Anil Beharry of the Young Warriors

Cricket Club of Berbice and Maniram Shew, with commentary provided by National cricket commentator Inderjeet Persaud. (Clifton Ross) Cold Fusion cricket club team: Tavindra Mangra (captain), Keyon Alexander, Kapildeo Charandeen, Jason Anderson, Ganesh Narine, Kevin Leitch, Chemroy Kendell (wicketkeeper), Darson Larose, Andre Seepersaud, Ricardo Chanderpaul Mohabir, Ravindra Dookie, Satesh Latchana, Rabindra Debideen, Ansar Khan.

GCB Over-40 T20 bowls off today GFF preps for safe resumption, with matches at Everest, Enmore appoints COVID-19 Task Force

A few of the Over-40 team reps along with GCB executives (sitting front row) share a photo with the trophies, ahead of today’s first round start

… 16 teams to battle for $250 000 prize

By Clifton Ross THE Guyana Cricket Board (GCB)/Tropical Springs Water launched their Over-40 T20 tournament yesterday with action bowling off today across the country with COVID-19 regulations in full effect.

The Veterans event marks the return of live action on GCB’s behalf, since the 2020 Regional 4-Day competition was halted due to the pandemic and organisers believed that it is a great way to commence live studying of a potential playing module should the pandemic

persist.

With a first-place prize of $250 000 and a runners-up purse of $100 000, the 16 teams from across the 3 counties - Essequibo 4 teams, Berbice 4 teams and Demerara fielding the most with 8 teams, will be in a clear tussle for bragging rights and the cash prize up for grabs.

GCB Marketing executive Lalta Gainda said the tournament will play a key role in the battle against COVID-19, as it targets the age TURN TO group which medical experts say is PAGE 20 more susceptible to being victims of

THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has appointed a diverse COVID-19 Task Force to oversee all preparations for the safe and responsible return of football activities in the coming months, following a request to the Government of Guyana National COVID-19 Task Force to resume training and competition as conditions allow.

The Task Force, which met for the first time virtually on November 17, will manage all areas of the GFF’s ‘Bounce-back’ plans, including all health and medical factors, legal matters, coordination with the National COVID-19 Task Force and communication and collaboration with GFF members and all football stakeholders.

In a release, GFF president Wayne Forde said: “The GFF is taking every action necessary to bring football back in the safest way possible, once we get the green light from the authorities. This is likely to be a gradual return to action in order to manage the risks as we roll out the robust and pragmatic plan we have developed in our partnership with UEFA.” “The key to a successful resumption of football will be making sure we remain flexible, respect the guidelines at all times while guaranteeing that all stakeholders are engaged and consulted, so that we can all get back to the game we love as soon as possible.

For now, it is important to remind our community that football is not currently allowed under the current restrictions. We urge all of our peers to respect the rules and protect themselves and their loved ones.”

The ‘Bounce-back’ programme is an initiative of UEFA that the GFF, as part of its ongoing partnership with European football’s governing body, is participating in so as to ensure a safe resumption of football. Under TURN TO the programme, Guyana is the second nation PAGE 22 in the CONCACAF region to join forces with experts from the European football Adminis-

GFF preps for safe resumption, appoints COVID-19 Task Force

Major Loring Benons is a representative of the National COVID-19 Task Force

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GFF president Wayne Forde

GCB Over-40 T20 bowls off today with matches at Everest, Enmore SEE PAGE 23

… 16 teams to battle for $250 000 prize

A few of the Over-40 team reps along with GCB executives (sitting front row) share a photo with the trophies, ahead of today’s first round start

Blairmont Blazers, Cold Fusion T20

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battle on Sunday at Tuschen ground Guyanese fast bowler Romario Shepherd in the new T20I jersey

Blairmont Blazers

West Indies T20 team gets new design

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2020