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See Inside No.106524

Almost 50% of second rice crop already harvested

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G$1.8 trillion to be invested in Yellowtail project 03 Barbados team exploring investments here PAGE

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Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal (left) with the Barbados Minister of Housing, Land and Maintenance Dr. William Duguid (right) and other officials during a tour of housing developments in Georgetown

‘Lawlessness’ must stop!

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Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill and other officials pass a fruit vendor on Saturday with her temporary vending stall and motor truck that was set up behind the Botanical Gardens on Sheriff Street on Saturday (Elvin Croker photo)

–– Edghill to put an end to ad hoc vending

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 24, 2021

Almost 50 per cent of second rice crop already harvested

DESPITE the food production challenges brought on by the unprecedented floods in May, harvesting of this year’s second rice crop is nearing 50 per cent, according to information from Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha.

It was indicated that by the end of the second week in October, some 46.8 per cent of this year’s autumn rice crop had been reaped. This, the second for year, is customarily planted around April-June, and reaped in the September-October.

However, due to the massive and prolonged countrywide floods, which affected thousands of acres of farmlands, rice farmers in the affected areas were forced to delay sowing.

As a matter of fact, even as waters receded, many farmers, particularly those in Regions Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) went ahead to sow their fields, well beyond the timeframe recommended for them to do so.

For this crop, a total of

162,782.95 acres of paddy was sown, while 76,228.15 acres have already been harvested, producing some 2,533,969.84 bags of paddy. When weighed, this accounted for 160,959.97 tonnes of paddy.

A breakdown of all the rice-producing regions showed that harvesting in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) stood at 64.9 per cent, bearing a yield of 4.94 tonnes. Of the 35,146.29 acres of paddy sown, 22,806.65 acres have already been harvested to produce 718,335.84 bags of paddy.

In Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), the rice harvesting percentage stood at $39.9 per cent, giving an accumulated yield of 5.2 tonnes. Of the 19,311.28 acres of rice land sown, approximately 7701.28 acres have already been harvested to produce 255,565.00 bags of paddy.

Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), which was the least affected by the floods, recorded the highest percentage of harvested rice; 69.6 per cent, to be exact. This rep-

Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha resents a yield of 6.23 tonnes.

In that region, 7,365.66 acres of rice lands were sown, with 5122.78 acres already harvested to produce 203,446.00 bags of paddy.

In Region Five, where hundreds of rice farms were inundated for several weeks, farmers persevered and managed to sow 54,979.29 acres of paddy. As at the week ending October 10, approximately 23,423.08 acres were harvested, producing 699,877.00 bags of paddy. This brings the

region’s rice harvest figures to 42.6 per cent, with a yield of 4.69 tonnes.

Meanwhile, in Region Six, which was one of the most flood-affected regions, some 45,980.43 acres of rice lands were sown, with 17,174.01 acres already harvested to produce some 656,746.00 bags of paddy. Understandably, harvesting in that region, one of the largest rice-producing regions in the country, stood at 37.4 per cent, recording a yield of six tonnes.

Notwithstanding the devastating and damaging floods, authorities have said that the rice industry remains on course for a massive scale up.

More specifically, the Ministry of Agriculture has its sights set on doubling the country’s rice production within the coming years.

As a matter of fact, in Region Three alone, industry leaders are projecting an increase to one million bags of paddy. Also, within the coming years, the ministry, via the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) is hoping to see significant increases in the

overall rice production recorded in Region Three.

Further, the rice board projects that by 2025, the GRDB 16, a new rice variety, would be occupying approximately 70 per cent of the region’s rice acreage, and that yields would increase to approximately 6.4 tonnes per hectare.

To complement its efforts, the ministry is working to complete a comprehensive mapping exercise of all rice cultivation areas. It is also working to improve rice data management system by providing real-time data to farmers and ensuring that all farmers adopt improved agronomic practice.

Minister Mustapha has also indicated government’s intention to construct all-weather roads in all major rice-producing areas, while developing drainage capacity to minimise damage caused by floods. During the height of the disaster, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, spoke of the critical role that that the Northern Relief Channel had played in safeguarding Region Four

from the recent floods.

As a result, the Head of State committed to the construction of three major outfall channels in Regions Three, Five and Six, similar to the $3.6 billion channel located at Hope/Dochfour, East Coast Demerara.

The massive eight-door drainage structure was conceptualised and constructed by the People’s Progressive Party Civic Government, prior to it demitting office in 2015.

Initially, when the project came on stream, it was heavily criticised by members of the then A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Opposition. However, fast forward more than a decade later, the ‘Hope Canal’ is being hailed as the saviour that safeguarded Region Four from the full brunt of the ongoing floods which have devastated some 52,000 households across 300 communities. In some areas, water levels had even surpassed 16 feet, completely covering homes and vehicles, etcetera.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 24, 2021

G$1.8 trillion to be invested in Yellowtail project

ONCE given the go ahead from the government, ExxonMobil Guyana and its partners will be gearing up to invest approximately GY$1.8 trillion (US$9 billion) to develop the Yellowtail project within the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana.

According to a report published by OilNow on Saturday, the investment figures are based on initial estimates which were outlined in the project’s Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). The document was submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) by the oil company’s local affiliate, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL).

Following feedback from the government, the company, according to OilNow, will make a Final Investment Decision (FID) on the Yellowtail project - the company’s fourth development in the Stabroek Block.

“Exxon was keen to note that the project costs are anticipated to increase given the higher numbers of development wells and associated drilling costs when compared to its Payara project, which carries a similar price tag,” OilNow said in its report.

The Yellowtail discovery was announced in April 2019. It is ExxonMobil’s 13th oil discovery in the Stabroek Block with drilling having encountered approximately 292 feet (89 meters) of high-quality oil-bearing sandstone reservoir at a depth of 18,445 feet (5,622 meters) in 6,046 feet (1,843 meters) of water.

With a recent discovery at the Cataback-1 Well, Guyana’s oil reserves have shot up to 10 billion barrels. And, with Guyana preparing to accommodate its largest ever exploration campaign, the country’s

The Liza Destiny currently produces up to 110,000 barrels of oil per day petroleum resources are the only rig equipped to ready surpassing US$1 As it is, more than projected to double by perform well tests. billion, coupled with the US$400 million is sitting 2025. The heightened exTo further complement fact that global oil prices in Guyana’s Natural Reploration efforts across the the ongoing operations of have been on a constant sources Fund, untouched.

Stabroek and Canje blocks the Liza Destiny Floating rise, Guyana’s petroleum The People’s Progressive are expected to run until Production Storage and revenues could increase Party Civic-led governDecember 2025. Exxon- Offloading (FPSO) ves- significantly. More spe- ment has vowed to ensure Mobil had specified that it sel, ExxonMobil and its cifically, Guyana could that the monies are only has plans to drill a total of partners are preparing to earn in excess of US$80 spent once the requisite 37 wells at the Stabroek welcome the Liza Unity million from its eighth legislation is in place to block alone. in November, followed by oil lift which is slated for ensure intense scrutiny and The oil giant, accord- the Prosperity FPSO. November. ing to OilNow, made no Meanwhile, Minister of It was only in August mention of its projections Natural Resources, Vick- that Minister Bharrat anfor the Kaieteur block ram Bharrat, had previ- nounced Guyana’s receipt which has since seen a ously said that oil discov- of payments for its sevnon-commercial discovery eries in the Guyana Basin enth oil lift, to the tune at the Tanager well. have been quite lucrative, of US$79,617,561.87. It The company did note, and is currently approach- is the largest single oil however, that it will con- ing 13 billion barrels of payment the country has tinue use of its six drill oil equivalent resources, received to date, and ships, namely the Stena which could see further it brought total oil exCarron, the Stena Drill- increases as more drilling tractions to a grand total of MAX, the Noble Bob begins.

7,056,262 barrels, which Douglas, the Noble Tom Bharrat had indicat- have accumulated US$436 Madden, the Noble Don ed that even though the million in earnings.

Taylor and the Noble Sam majority of Guyana’s oil Since 2015, Guyana Croft, all of which con- discoveries are being made has had 22 oil discovertinue to operate offshore in the Stabroek block, the ies, and with the country Guyana. country’s petroleum po- poised to gain far more As it is, these vessels tential is far more expan- within the coming years, have been executing a sive and goes beyond the the government has promseries of exploration, ap- ExxonMobil-operated ar- ised that the oil revenues praisal and development eas. will be used to bring direct drilling campaigns with With the country’s benefits to the people of the Stena Carron being half-year oil earnings al- Guyana.

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accountability of spending.

Additionally, Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, had previously indicated that with the climate change imperative to decarbonise the world, it was important that Guyana pursues an aggressive mission of “getting as much oil out of the ground as quickly as possible.”

The former President, at an oil conference in the United States, reasoned that Guyana has to maximise the benefit from the industry and use those benefits to change lives of every Guyanese. “We don’t know how swiftly we’ll get to a decarbonised world, but we have to make use of this period when there is still demand to get as much as possible out of the ground and that is why we support the rapid pace of the industry, but it must be done safely,” he posited.

He said too that the government will be working strategically in its efforts to develop the oil industry. In doing so, he said that the oil revenues will be used to propel and accelerate the country’s critical non-oil sectors such as agriculture and social services.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 24, 2021

Suspected bandit drowns while trying to flee residents, police

A SUSPECTED bandit died by drowning while he and his colleagues were attempting to flee police and residents on Saturday morning after invading a La Bonne Intention (LBI), East Coast Demerara house and carting off a number of valuables.

Dead is Shamar Charles known as ‘Tanny’ of Plaintain Walk, Triumph Village, ECD and Agricola, East Bank Demerara; the police said his body was positively identified by his mother.

According to a police report, about 10:45hrs on Saturday, three males, one armed

Sunday, 24 October 04:00hrs - 05:30hrs

with a handgun, entered the residence of a 56-year-old female while she was sitting at her dining table in the lower flat of her house, assaulted the victim and demanded cash and jewellery from her.

She took off two gold rings valued at approximately $240,000 and handed it to the suspects before raising an alarm, causing two other occupants of the house -- a 23-year-old female and 27-year-old female – to venture downstairs.

The police reported that the suspects took the 27-yearold upstairs and demanded more valuables, while they relieved the 23-year-old of a gold chain valued at $22,000.

The victims were also relieved of a Samsung S10 Plus cell- phone valued at $200,000 and a Samsung S7 cellphone valued at $60,000.

One of the victims was able to run out of the house and alerted neighbours who raised an alarm. The three suspects exited the yard by jumping the fence and ran away, causing public-spirited citizens to give chase, along with a responding mobile police patrol.

The suspects entered a canal which separates LBI from Chateau Margot, East Coast Demerara, to make good their escape; however, Charles went under the water and drowned. His body was recovered by public-spirited citizens.

The body was examined and no marks of violence were seen on the most exposed parts. It was then escorted by ranks of the Beterverwagting Police Station to the CC Nicholson Hospital.

Police reported that a search was conducted on the deceased and a red bandanna, two gold rings, $980 in cash, a University of Guyana (UG) student identification card and a black Pro cellular phone were found in his possession.

The two gold rings and the UG Student ID card were identified by the victims as their property. Investigations into the matter are ongoing.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 24, 2021

Dubai visit: A fruitful engagement

GUYANA’S participation at Expo2020 in Dubai was well received, and featured a number of bilateral engagements that sought to strengthen relations between the two countries, and discuss possible areas of investments. President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on October 18, ahead of the Guyana National Day celebrations, which saw Guyana being prominently displayed on the international stage. The Head of State was accompanied by First Lady, Mrs. Arya Ali, along with Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh; Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond; Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, along with other officials and a team of vibrant performers and artist, who skilfully painted an impressive picture of the talents that reside on Guyana’s shores.

‘INVEST HERE’ In his speech to those attending the ‘Guyana Day’ observances, President Ali spared no effort in marketing Guyana as an investment hub, which boasts of thriving food production capacities; pristine forests and an abundance of fresh water; an unrivalled eco-tourism product; rich natural resources; a distinct heritage created from the amalgamation of the most captivating cultures of the world; and more importantly, a land that is poised for massive transformational development.

“If you are looking for investment opportunities, Guyana is a place on which to be setting your sights,” President Ali assured the top brasses of the UAE.

LOGISTICS HUB Outside of the government-to-government engagements, President Ali also met with a number of private investors, including the Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Ports, Mr. Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, who committed to the creation of a new logistics hub to facilitate investments between the UAE and South America, Central America, the Caribbean, North America and West Africa. “We are serious about Guyana, and I promise you we passed the time of thinking, now we are in the implementation stage,” Al Shamisi told President Ali. The CEO is also the owner, operator, developer and regulator of Abu Dhabi’s maritime infrastructure and Khalifa Industrial Zone (KIZAD).

TECHNICAL CO-OPERATION Shortly after the cultural extravaganza, the Guyanese Head of State began making rounds to meet with officials of the UAE, thereby ensuring tangible results. Accordingly, President Ali met His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates, which resulted in the signing of an important Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which seeks to advance closer relations and key areas of technical co-operation.

Among the areas discussed were food security, climate change, the environment, technology and infrastructure, and revising the visa policy for both countries. The actual document was signed by Dr. Singh and his UAE counterpart, Minister Reem Al-Hashimy.

(Office of the President photos) US$5M INVESTMENT Additionally, President Ali also spearheaded meetings between key private sector players of both Guyana and Dubai, which saw Dubai’s Chamber of Commerce committing to facilitate a Guyana Trade Office in Dubai. This is expected to promote and expedite continuous investment and trade partnerships between the two countries. Even further, an Emrati-owned company named Undiome Global DWC LLC, has also signed a MoU committing to a US$5 million investment to develop a 20,000 square foot manufacturing facility intended to produce biaxial voided slab technology in Guyana. A corresponding MoU was signed between the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Unidome Global DWC LLC, Kahlid Al-Qaqa, and the CEO of Global Infrastructure Guyana Inc., Troy Phillips. Dr. Ali also met with officials of the UAE’s Elite Agro to discuss investment opportunities in Guyana’s agriculture sector. Elite Agro is one of the largest producers of fresh vegetables and fruits in the Arab region, with large-scale farms in UAE, Serbia and Morocco

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 24, 2021

Protecting Workers THE government has committed itself to ensuring a stable industrial relations climate and to create a safe work environment for all workers throughout the length and breadth of the country.

This was evident from the re-establishment of the Ministry of Labour, which under the former APNU+AFC administration was closed down. Apart from the message which the then administration signalled as how it treated with the issues and concerns of the working people of Guyana, it also resulted in much inconvenience to those who have had grievances of one type or another with their employees, especially in the private sector.

It is to the credit of the PPP/C administration that on assuming office, one of the first actions taken at the executive level was to re-establish the Ministry of Labour and in the process issued a warning to employers that it will not condone actions that will be in contravention of the labour laws of Guyana.

To give effect to the policy orientation of the PPP/C administration, several new labour offices were established in all the 10 regions of Guyana. Only recently a new labour office was opened at Corriverton, Region Six, which will serve to ensure that residents can access all of the services in one office. In addition to a labour officer, there will also be an Occupational Safety

and Health Officer (OSH), a branch of the Central Recruitment and Manpower Agency (CRMA), a co-op society officer and an officer attached to the Board of Industrial training (BIT). This facility has now been replicated in all 10 regions of Guyana, including the interior districts.

The Ministry of Labour must be given credit for the proactive measures it has taken for the welfare of workers. Several labour agreements were signed between employers and representative unions through the instrumentality of the Labour Department.

In addition, the ministry was instrumental in getting employers and unions to agree on salary and wage increases at the conciliation level, after failure by the parties to come to a mutual agreement.

The fact is that there are far too many workers in the country who are not being treated fairly by their employers. This is especially so among those employed in the private security sector and who work for long hours without benefitting from overtime payments as required under the law. The same is true for domestic workers and those in the commercial sector. Many work for wages that are below the statutory minimum and under conditions that are unsafe and hazardous. There are cases where employees are not covered by the National

Insurance Scheme (NIS) and are left to fend on their own in the event of accidents or mishaps. There are several reports of workers being forced to sign for wages they do not receive, in an attempt to circumvent the law.

According to data supplied by the Ministry of Labour, 725 complaints have been filed so far this year, mainly from security guards, commercial workers, and those in the mining sector. In addition, a total of $34.6M has been recovered from employers on behalf of workers this year so far.

Our workers must be treated with respect.

Labour is an important factor in any production process. In fact, it is the most important factor and the main source of surplus value or profits. It is only reasonable that they be paid fair wages for a fair day’s work. This is especially so in this COVID-19 environment which has already made life difficult for workers.

It was under the previous PPP/C administration that a national minimum wage was enacted by Parliament to safeguard workers against exploitation by employers who may otherwise be inclined to underpay them. The minimum wage in the private sector was first enacted in 2017 and there are indications that the PPP/C administration is considering an adjustment to the existing rates to

compensate for inflation and consequential increases in the cost of living.

The PPP/C administration has implemented several policy measures to cushion the impact of the recent floods and the COVID-19 pandemic. Among these were the one-off COVID-19 grants to all households, cash grants to parents of schoolchildren and an additional one-month of pay for old age pensioners, among others. These are indeed commendable measures. The private sector also has a corporate responsibility to ensure that their workers are fairly compensated.

As pointed out by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali during his May Day address, his government is committed to ensuring a better life for all workers, both in the public and private sectors. According to President Ali, over the next five years workers can look forward to greater economic security, enhanced economic prosperity and progressive improvements in living standards.

Our workers deserve no less. As the economy gets stronger, more can be expected.

The PPP/C has ideologically been a friend of the working people and it is only natural that its economic and social policies are configured to enhance the working and living conditions of the ordinary people.

Tribute to Colin Smith

Dear Editor,

COLIN Smith, the editor of the Catholic Standard, was laid to rest on Friday last.

Colin was an extraordinary human being.

We, three of his closest friends, would like to extend the tribute which we paid to him at the church, to a much wider Guyanese audience.

Colin Smith did not own even a tiny quantity of assets, but he was rich beyond one’s wildest imagination–because he was of the finest of values, virtue and purpose. Colin left this life without any serious quantity of material possessions. He took his Jesuit vow of poverty in ways you will find hard to see a replication elsewhere in this world. To describe how Colin eschewed material things would take dozens of letters to the press. He armed himself in life with his goodness and nothing else. Colin was one of the most decent, generous, mild-mannered, humble and sincere persons you could have found.

His amazing humanity and simplicity was a product of upright upbringing and the fact that he was deeply anchored to his Catholic faith.

Here are episodes of the man that tell you who he was. Once there was a massacre on the East Coast of Demerara and he, along with

Freddie Kissoon and William Cox, went to the scene. The trio was quickly swarmed by a hostile, menacing crowd. William sensed danger and looked desperately for an escape route but when he glanced at Colin, he was his usual self –untroubled and unbothered by the looming threat.

It was with this same collected and nonchalant manner that one day Colin waltzed through the entrance of the Pegasus Hotel to cover a CARICOM Heads of Government Conference and was almost mobbed by the foreign press. He’d been mistaken for the then President of Haiti, Jean Bertrand Aristide, to whom he bore a striking resemblance!

On some Sundays, years ago, the four of us would often go on a lime. We would drive to some location, share a meal and have a good chat. But no matter where we went, after a few hours Colin would always want to return home -- always. He never fussed or fretted, but he always said it was time to go home even though the lime was just warming up.

So, one day we drove to Parika, hired a speedboat and told Colin that a conservancy had collapsed and we were going to investigate. We then headed to Bartica and upon arrival told the speedboat operator to return in

the afternoon. True to form, after a few hours Colin wanted to go home. The only thing was that there was no speedboat around to get him home and so that time we got him to spend the entire day liming and ‘gaffing.’

As editor of the Catholic Standard he was given information about an arrangement a Cabinet Minister had unilaterally made in Trinidad. Colin was shown the proof so he went to interview the minister. The minister flatly denied the story. Colin said he could not run the story and we insisted. When asked why, Colin said, “You think a minister would lie?” That was the nature of the gentleman. He loved and trusted people.

Colin gave his entire life to the local diocese. He had many roles in the church, including as a Catechist and producer of the Catholic Broadcast But he is best known for his work with the Catholic Standard.

Colin was the workhorse of the Catholic Standard. He was the longest-serving editor and staff member, his involvement dating back to the days when the newspaper was printed on a Gestetner machine.

Thursdays were long days for Colin. Fr. Andrew Morrison would come in around 4pm. with a few stories already written, ready to be typed and prepared for the ‘flats.’ Fr.

Andy would then sit for hours and work on his editorial.But the rest of the newspaper had to be prepared and it was Colin who spearheaded that task, which began as early as Monday. Without Colin, the newspaper would never have been ready for Friday morning distribution.

When the “Standard” moved to the corner of South Road and Wellington Street, William often went there to visit Colin. On one such occasion, one of the persons connected to the board saw William and made an uncomplimentary remark about him going there to ‘help’ Colin. William never went back because he did not wish Colin to be embarrassed on his account. He, however, kept in touch and maintained his long-standing friendship with Colin.

We will miss Colin. He was our dear and trusted friend and someone whom we respected and who embodied the finest of human qualities.

There was not one bad bone in Colin’s body.

Rest in Peace, Colin!

William Cox – 624-0357 Frederick Kissoon– 614-5927 Sheik Isaacs (David) – 225-6898

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 24, 2021

Commendation for GCC executives but a few more concerns

Dear Editor,

A FEW weeks ago I had cause to raise several concerns about the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC), more specifically, the shortcomings of the executive. In that letter, I even called for a change in leadership, since the current leadership was not showing any interest in the club.

However, since the publication in most of the daily newspapers, remedial works began on the building, etc.

Whether these works were already planned by the executive or not is of no consequence now and at this juncture, I would like to thank the executive for starting the said works and so forth.

With that said, I have a few more issues concerning the club I would like to raise.

Editor, since the start of this year the President of the Georgetown

Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mr. Timothy Tucker, has been advocating for fair treatment and fair wages for workers within the fledgling Guyana oil and gas industry. This is admirable and I support this call.

However, as I was always told as a young man, “charity begins at home.”

The staff of the GCC, some of whom have been employed there for over 20 years, work for minimum wage and rarely, if ever, would see an increase in their salaries.

Further, their National Insurance Scheme (NIS) contributions are never updated and reflective of what they remit to the club to be paid on their behalf. There is no pension scheme in place for these persons when they meet the age of retirement. It is my firm view that Mr. Tucker and other executives of the club should investigate this, with an intent to change same.

Another topical issue is that of the maintenance of the ground, specifically, the drainage. It must be noted that it is taxpayers’ funds that was given to the club to maintain the ground and drainage system. However, the same is in a state of near collapse. No doubt, next year, when these subventions will be handed out again, the club will benefit, but if the funds are not being utilised properly then someone should be held accountable.

The other issue I would like to raise is the one about the upcoming executive elections. This is scheduled to be held during the month of December 2021. Already, there is a lot of talk about holding the elections virtually.

However, many are of the view that this is a gimmick to hijack the elections and have those currently in the leadership returned to said positions.

We are all cognisant of COVID-19

and the disadvantages that flow therefrom. The constant use of COVID-19 to mask nefarious activities won’t stand. For example, the elections will see approximately 100 financial members in attendance and the club held a fund-raising BBQ event which saw hundreds in attendance and concern about COVID-19 was not raised then.

Why now with the elections?

In any event, we can implement protocols to allow for the elections in person. These would include only fully vaccinated persons to attend, must wear a mask at all times and subject themselves to temperature tests etc.

I hope that these issues are addressed soonest, and we can all work together to restore the club.

Dear Editor,

examples of exploitation and even death.

THE dissent and fallout around the request to rename a street after Gandhi reveal huge divisions in a society that needs to heal.

What seemed to have escaped many is the common ground that was brought to light from the media and other public opinions.

COMMON GROUND One of the better suggestions still to be realised was made in 2012 when the Mayor of Georgetown attended the annual birthday event and paid homage to Gandhi.

However, he further recommended to the Indian High Commission (IHC) that they should collaborate with the University of Peace Studies, and the Universal Peace Foundation, so that the minds of the young people can be inculcated with the value of non-violence and future generations can live in a world that is kinder and more loving.

(See K.N.October 3, 2012) The only issue with such a call is to ask why the IHC should be the only agency to take this initiative of a global icon.

One answer is that others do not see it as their duty, even though the entire society and the world benefit when there is peace.

prison when the original was conceived in 1933-34.

Hajji Khan was one of the rare knowledge seekers who was seen reading and studying the Gita on a flight from Guyana to Toronto a few years ago.

The Sanatan Dharma Educational Foundation saw the need to promote this knowledge and initiated a project, A GITA FOR EACH HOME, several years ago in Canada.

Thousands of this summary of the Vedas and Upanishads were distributed in North America, the Caribbean and Guyana. The many positive comments made about its message since Gandhi’s birthday this year caused them to renew their efforts. The Apostle of Peace himself may have implored us to do this instead of being involved in conflict about his name on a street.

Consequently, more prints of hardcopies have been ordered from India and should be available for distribution in the new year. A free PDF copy can be made available to organisations interested in printing and distributing to their members from Ramjihindu@rogers.com.

President Ali also recognised that Gandhi’s philosophy was meant to create change from the bottom up. Every religious and social organisation across the country can organise an event on October 2 each year and invite speakers to share the life and message of the apostle of truth and non-violence. The diaspora is overflowing with knowledgeable lecturers willing to participate.

For those who want any structure to carry his name, there are countless ways to make this happen quietly without being involved in the noise of divisive politics. Who can stop private companies from using his name on their buildings, roads, Ashrams, schools (or

even a classroom) hospitals (or even a wing) sports stadiums, bridges, pets, etc, after him, if this will help future generations to avoid anger and violence. It may not be too late to consider a street or even a pathway around the memorial to Jahajis at Palmyra in Region Six. Who can stop the generous Ramroop Foundation from immortalising him in some way when the crematorium at Leguan is completed?

Then there is the new SILICA City, which can test the courage of any government by naming it GANDHI NAGAR and better yet make it a NON-ALCOHOLIC ZONE. This can also be the location of the first Department of Peace. The idea is not novel.

According to the April 2021 newsletter from the UNITING FOR PEACE organisation in the UK, several countries have one and the UN supports the building of such ministries.

It also states that 22 countries have no army leaving more for health, education and social services. One of them, Costa Rica, requires Peace Education to be taught in all schools.

If we on earth cannot use the lessons of his life to unite a tiny country of less than a million people, we may have to wait until we are invaded by extraterrestrial beings.

Alternatively, we have to experience the few minutes excursion to outer space from where we can see the entire earth as one living entity envisioned by the Mahatma.

Shanti, Shanti, Shanti

Yours truly Rawle Nichols

The Gandhi Way: Common Ground

HISTORICAL AND CURRENT CONNECTIONS To suggest that Gandhi has no connection with Guyana is to ignore the history and views of prominent world leaders.

President Obama visited India in 2010 and made it clear in addressing Congress “...I may not be standing here today, as President of the USA, had it not been for Gandhi and the message he shared with America and the rest of the world.”

Then there are the memorable words of Martin Luther King: “Christ gave us the goals, Gandhi gave us the tactics... he influenced my life in terms of action more than anybody...”

Gandhi was invited to the USA and many other countries by leaders of numerous religious and political groups, but chose not to leave the struggle that demanded his presence in India. However, his emissary Rev. Andrews was hosted by the British Guiana East Indian Association in 1929 to study the conditions of indentured servants as he had done in Fiji and Natal. Details can be found in his 1930 report, Impressions of British Guiana, which was shared with Gandhi and Congress.

It influenced the decision to end the system that was filled with horrendous

INFLUENCE OF THE GITA It is quite refreshing to read in the words of Dr. Roshan Khan and others, referring to the Gita as a book that is meant for all, irrespective of religious beliefs and practices.

Despite the many tragedies in Gandhi’s life, these left no visible or indelible scars on him, a fact that he credits entirely to the Gita.

This universal philosophy was the source of both inspiration and consolation when disappointments stared him in the face. It was the initiative of his Secretary Mahadev Desai.

The British provided both of them the leisure time for this product of love as they were in

Yours sincerely, Ramnarine Sahadeo Editor of the pocket-sized Gita by Gandhi, with quotes and comments

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 24, 2021

Politics & Society Forum A Review of Jerome Teelucksingh’s book, Beyond the Legacy of the Missionaries and East Indians: The Impact of the Presbyterian Church in the Caribbean BETWEEN 1845 and 1917, the British Government allowed sugar planters in its overseas colony of Trinidad to transport an estimated 143,939 indentured labourers from the Indian sub-continent.

The arrival of these labourers was in response to a perceived labour shortage emerging from the abolition of African slavery in 1838. Most of the indentured labourers were low-caste Hindu peasants who were expected to work for five years and return home. But by the late 1860s the planters, to prune cost and maximise profits, induced the labourers to settle through a policy of exchanging their return passage for a piece land. However, the plan was ill-conceived. Once settled, the Indians had to fend for themselves with limited internal and external support.

Within this context, the Canadian Presbyterian Church arrived in Trinidad with

the expectation to fill a need where the colonial government had failed to deliver the basic necessities of life in rural Indian communities.

Jerome Teelucksingh examines the way the Presbyterians successfully provided western education, converted Hindus to Christianity, and supplied badly needed social services to Indians in Trinidad, from indenture to the modern period.

The focus is on how the Presbyterians have reorganised and rebuilt a substantial portion of the rural Indian population amid uneasy transition and resistance.

The argument is that Indians benefitted from their association with the Presbyterians despite the erosion of their core religion of Hinduism. Had it not been for the continuous and dedicated work of the Presbyterians, the Indians would have still been trapped in socioeconomic dependence and isolation.

The Presbyterian involvement helped them to achieve mobility in public service, politics, law, and medicine. The role of the Presbyterian mission is mentioned on almost every page of the text. Teelucksingh writes that quality education had become synonymous with the Presbyterians, leaving “an indelible impression on the landscape of Trinidad” (p. 93). The academic standards and achievements of Presbyterian schools on passing national exams were unmatched, although their schools were not free from low morale, indiscipline, and malingering. They also prepared young minds for leadership roles and positions. The overall Presbyterian mission among Indians allowed for a flexible approach when providing services to Indians. Hindi and Hindu customs, for instance, were encouraged in schools and communities, creating a uniquely hybrid environment that combined western and eastern ways of life in Trinidad. Furthermore, “a harmonious and successful working relationship,” Teelucksingh asserts, “with governmental agencies, non-governmental organisations and PTAS (sic)” or Parent Teacher Associations was practised (p. 187).

From its inception to the modern period, the Presbyterian mission in Trinidad has received many criticisms and challenges for not speaking out on the hardships of indenture, for not providing equal services to Africans, for interfering with Hinduism, and for practically taking over the educational system. Unfortunately, Teelucksingh does not analyse these social dynamics in depth, and, in so doing, glorifies the Presbyterian mission in multiethnic Trinidad. A blind spot in his narrative is the way the achievements of the Presbyterians measure up to the

Professor Lomarsh Roopnarine

achievements in the predominantly Hindu Trinidad community, where conversion to Christianity has been unsuccessful.

Moreover, the book is not well organised, and the title is misleading. The focus is on Trinidad, not the Caribbean. One chapter on the Caribbean is sketched and out of place. The introduction lacks a clear thesis and the two-page conclusion is weak.

But the book is strong in two domains. First, it demonstrates how the application of the Presbyterian mission continues to have a positive impact on Indians in uplifting their private and public lives. The mission has liberated Indians from the exigency of rural life and prepared them to compete for opportunities in Trinidad and abroad. Secondly, the book answers a question that has permeated the minds of researchers and observers of Indians in the southern Caribbean: Why is it that Indians fare better in Trinidad than in Guyana and Suriname? Apart from oil wealth in Trinidad, the Presbyterian mission of conversion and its offer of quality education have single-handedly been responsible for the socioeconomic difference in the Indo-phone Caribbean.

The mission was not as deeply involved in Guyana and Suriname as it was in Trinidad. Teelucksingh must be commended for bringing attention to the investments, challenges, and achievements of the Presbyterian mission among Trinidad Indians.

The book deserves a place in the historiography of Caribbean Indians and will be useful to researchers, instructors, and students who are interested in how a Canadian Christian religious mission has been successful in transforming the lives of an immigrant group in Trinidad. (lomarsh.roopnarine@jsums.edu)

Five bandits rob DHL Alberttown building

–– two safes, three money canisters stolen

FIVE bandits, on Friday, escaped with two safes and three canisters containing an undisclosed amount of cash from DHL building, Alberttown, Georgetown.

Police Headquarters said that, on Friday, at 03:23hrs, two unarmed security guards were on duty. One of the security guards stated he was in front of the compound when he was confronted by a masked bandit who commanded that he

“don’t say anything”.

The security guard was then ordered to lie on his stomach and the suspect proceeded to duct-tape him. The suspect was subsequently accompanied by four others who gained access to the compound from the back fence located north of the building.

Police said that the other security guard claimed he did not hear or see anything since it was raining.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 24, 2021

Pain medications

PAIN is the body’s language to indicate that something is not right, and unabated pain is definitely worrisome.

Therefore you are advised to communicate to your doctor any experience with pain and to describe it clearly and precisely as possible for quicker targetted approach that is unique to you only. Pain management plan of action is never a one size fits all since each person has a different reaction to treatment.

Therapeutic pain management with injectable requires specialised certified skills to deal with various administrative techniques, which, if done incorrectly, can have debilitating effects or even fatal incidents.

Types of pain are chronic pain (e.g. leg, knee, back), refractory pain (uncontrollable pain in spite of aggressive measures), acute pain (e.g. toothache or delivery), neuropathic pain (caused by nerve irritation e.g. shingles), nociceptive pain (e.g. due to injury to tissue), radicular pain (radiating from the back and hip into the legs through the spine) or functional pain (no obvious origin).

Chronic pain is a serious health condition and may have consequential effects on your quality of life. Persons with a history of depression may experience a worsening of their condition especially when pain affects your sleep. Simple tasks at home become burdensome and if you are employed, your work performance as well may be affected which may lead to financial instability.

Types of pain medication include OTCs like tylenol, NSAIDS like advil/ diclofenac/ naproxen, muscle relaxants like carisoprodol/ buscopan, anti-anxiety like valium, anti-depressants like amitriptyline, neuropathic pain meds like gabapentin and pregabalin and opioid analgesic like cocodamol, tramadol

and oxycodone.

The mechanism of action for NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) is to inhibit an enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX) which is released when the tissue is damaged.

Drugs that inhibit this enzyme are further divided into COX1 and COX2 inhibitors, where the latter was designed to have an enhanced beneficial response with less pronounced risk on the stomach; so it may be considered favorable for persons with chronic pain.

However the downside is that it is not suitable for the elderly or those persons with an impairment to the kidney. It increases your fluid retention thereby it may induce hypertension.

So careful selection is required before placing patients on COX inhibitors.

There is a proposed theory that acetaminophen is a COX 3 inhibitor since it does not have any pronounced anti-inflammatory effect for swelling. It is used as a fever and pain reducer. Acetaminophen (US name) or paracetamol (British name) with brands as tylenol, panadol, cetamol and patanol are the safest on the stomach. Safe use is expanded to categories such as pregnancy, elderly, patients with compromised kidney function and those on other medications. But if the dosage is increased or if it is used over a prolonged period can still cause damage especially to the liver since it is metabolised in the liver.

Hence a red flag alert with alcohol and other drugs such as anti-fungal which have to go through that same breakdown route. Anti-coagulants like warfarin and anti-seizure drugs like carbamazepine may also interact with acetaminophen.

Non pharmacological pain treatment includes yoga, lifestyle changes and meditation.

Alternative treatment may be considered, for

example medical marijuana. Other complimentary activities are physiotherapy, massage, acupuncture, hot and cold treatments.

Common drug formulations for pain meds are tablets, topicals like creams/ gels/ spray and patches. These formulations suppress pain through absorption by the skin so bypassing the stomach which can be appropriate for users of chronic pain medication. There are various methods to administer pain medications such as swallowing, sublingual absorption, suppositories, intravenous, subcutaneous, transdermal, intrathecal or nerve block.

Nerve blocks are used in situations where there is acute pain such as epidural in delivery, local anesthetics used by dentists or steroids used for the nerve and joint Side fffects of pain medication are constipation, nausea, vomiting, sedation, drowsiness, impaired judgement and slowed breathing. Depending on the individual patient presentation, side effects are dealt with accordingly. So if the patient is constipated and his/her gastric condition permits you can increase fiber intake either in the natural form or as powder or other formulations. If the patient is able-bodied, exercise can also help with constipation, if not stool softener or laxatives can be added to the combo. In the case of the patient experiencing nausea or vomiting then an anti-nausea medication for example gravol or ondansetron is taken at least 30 minutes prior. In the case of a history of gastritis or stomach ulcer then a proton pump inhibitor like omeprazole or pantoprazole or the brand Nexium is used before pain meds. With respect to pronounced disorientation after use of especially opioid analgesia, then either a downward dosage adjustment or different drug can be prescribed once you alert the phy-

sician of your reaction to the dosage initially prescribed. In cases where oral medications are vomited up then injectable, intramuscular or patches especially in opioid analgesia are optional, depending on their availability and expertise for administration.

Other drug Interactions include antihistamine (piriton, diphenhydramine and loratidine) for allergy. Also CNS (central nervous system) depressants and general anesthetics require monitoring with concomitant use. In terms of narcotics the following may pose a challenge such as anti-seizure medications (carbamazepine, dilantin), some antibiotics (clarithromycin) and anti-depressants, muscle relaxant and sedatives (valium).

Opioid analgesia releases endorphins in the brain, a neurotransmitter which dulls the pain and produces a pleasurable experience.

Addiction to opioid analgesia is a big problem in the countries that do not have strict protocols and control mechanisms in place to deal with genuine cases. Tolerance may be developed to the dosages and the person may request the drug more often to experience that feeling of powerful sense of well-being.

Generally pain management is a niche market opportunity but must include a multidisciplinary approach for the management of symptoms and side effects.

For further pharmacological guidance and physician referral, consult the pharmacist at Medicine Express PHARMACY located at 223 Camp Street, between Lamaha and New Market Streets. If you have any queries, comments or further information on the above topic kindly forward them to medicine.express@gmail. com or send them to 223 Camp Street, N/ burg. Tel #225-5142.

Illicit items found inside Timehri Prison A SEARCH of the Timehri Prison on the East Bank of Demerara, on Saturday, unearthed a number of illicit items in three dormitories.

In listing the items, Police Headquarters noted that ranks found a quantity of narcotics: two black Samsung cellphones, one Hyundai cellphone, five phone batteries, two phone casings, one Digicel SIM card, four phone chargers, a quantity of nails,

one mirror, two-way electrical points, nine cigarette lighters, 11 improvised weapons, one kitchen knife, one pair of scissors and two earpieces.

The search was conducted by ranks of the Guyana Police Force and Prison Service and the items were confiscated, as the investigators try to ascertain the circumstances under which they ‘entered’ the precinct of the prison.

The illicit items found inside the Timehri Prison

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 24, 2021

Harmon’s gamble for the top PNC post

ON Thursday last, Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon announced his candidacy for the post of leader of the People’s National Congress at a small launching ceremony.

Seemingly grateful and upbeat about running for the post, Harmon delivered a routine, lackluster and basic presentation about the need for party unity, healing, and reconciliation. As was expected, Harmon spoke about his incohesive 10-point plan, which veered off at several points to include Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo and the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) criticising them for everything possible under the sun.

The Opposition Leader then went on with his ramblings, amid technical glitches, about the PNC+APNU+AFC banter -- included his discrimination and employment gaff. There were no facts.

And, those that watched the live broadcast witnessed a would-be leader of the PNC telling them an inaccurate history of his party’s accomplishments, the APNU+AFC Coalition’s record, and several untruths.

Firstly, Harmon is no David Granger, Robert Corbin, Desmond Hoyte, or Forbes Burnham. He proved that he does not possess the oratory skills or disposition like previous PNC leaders.

Even Granger would have evoked interest because he commands the attention and fascination of his peers. He would have prepared and stuck to his speech when seeking the party’s support.

Harmon did not. He chose to disregard the notes of his handlers and campaign team. Harmon was never schooled on effective political communication by any past political leader or party comrade. His speech was humdrum and not up to par with what the viewing public has come to expect from a prospective PNC leader. And Harmon was dehydrated during his rant. This action in his face caused the viewing public to be interested in the workings of his mouth.

Secondly, he could not convince anyone that he was passionate about what he was saying and committed to saving the PNC from the almost certain disunity, disharmony, and infighting that are making inroads in the PNC with Congress nomination set to take place November 11, 2021.

Harmon’s utterances came across as ingenuine. They seem to be politically sinister as folks in the party generally do not support him because of the ongoing rift with Volda Lawrence and Granger. After all, he is seen as being favoured by Granger and is even

behaving like him when he has meetings with his parliamentarians, and politicians inside Congress place. No politician of any sort of standing or following in the PNC is standing

by Harmon’s side.

Yet, he received tributes from some party parliamentarians which included Natasha Smith, Ganesh Mahipaul, Roysdale Forde, and Daniel Seeram. It is widely believed that Amna Ally and Annette Ferguson are only supporting him because they support Granger, and no one wants the pair on their team for the upcoming Congress.

Thirdly, there is nothing original or new about what he plans to do if he wins the PNC leadership race.

For example, taking photo opts from one’s work as an opposition leader and posting them in a PowerPoint presentation as part of one’s political work for the party, does not mean that one could function as a PNC leader.

Added to that, other members of the Central Executive know the stories behind the construction of the Congress-Houses, which were part of his so-called list of accomplishments for the post. In the same way, making campaign promises to turn the fortunes of the PNC around through lucrative business proposals while aiming to secure the top post,

are wrong.

Harmon has neither the years of experience, statesmanship, intellectual aptitude, internationalism, deportment, and popularity to be successful in the race. Harmon failed in his bid to become party Chairman at the last election. He is now aiming higher and will need divine intervention to make him clench the post of leader. He is hoping that the laws of probability are backing him.

Finally, Harmon could have set the tone ahead of his nomination.

He could have made a declaration that would end rigging, which is the tool the PNC utilises to win elections.

He could have stated that his vision includes a new PNC, which is ready to open up a dialogue by admitting defeat at 2020 polls and withdrawing the flimsy electoral challenge to the results.

He could have even announced that were he to become the leader of the PNC, it would mark the end of race-based and opportunistic politics on the party end.

He could have even given internal concessions to smooth his path to the leadership post.

But he did not and will not! It’s time to stop gambling with PNC’s future!

$9.7M water system commissioned at Big Biaboo –– 26 households to get first-time access RESIDENTS in the farming community of Big Baiboo, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) are now able to access water for the first time, following the commissioning of a $9.7 million water system.

The system was commissioned by Susan Rodrigues, Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, on Friday afternoon,

in the presence of Regional Chairman of Region Five, Mr. Vickchand Ramphal, technical officials from the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) and residents.

This signals the fulfilling of yet another promise by the minister for the provision of potable water in several communities.

In September 2020, the minister visited the area,

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, interacts with residents of Big Biaboo

which has been inhabited by informal settlers for more than three decades.

At the time, the residents called on the minister for access to potable water and the development of a new housing area.

Earlier this year, Cabinet approved the regularisation of Big Baiboo, paving the way for GWI to begin the water expansion project.

“It’s a vast area, so it took a lot of investment, and, finally, we can say that we made that commitment as well, and we can have residents living in dignity and have access to the services and the utilities that all Guyanese deserve to have access to,” the minister stated.

Minister Rodrigues also commended regional representatives for their efforts in bringing issues faced by residents in communities across the region to the forefront. She stated that such has played a crucial role in the Government’s mandate to address issues and improve the lives of citizens.

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, turn on the tap to commission the water system in the presence of residents and other officials The project, which was executed under the supervision of the GWI, included the installation of 1.9 kilometers of 4 inch polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes and is expected to see some 26 households benefitting.

While in the area, the minister also led a hamper distribution exercise at Little Biaboo. The hampers were being distributed as

part of government’s response to farmers affected by recent floods. Some 190 livestock and cash crop farmers, who have been affected will benefit at the conclusion of the distribution process. The list of farmers is drawn from the communities of Little Biaboo, Big Biaboo and Hansom Tree.

This also followed a

house lot distribution exercise at Regional Democratic Council (RDC) office in Fort Wellington, on Friday, in keeping with another promise made by the Minister two weeks ago.

The exercise saw thirty seven low-income families, including fifteen informal settlers, receiving house lots. (Ministry of Housing and Water press release)

‘Lawlessness’ must stop!

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 24, 2021

–– Edghill to put an end to ad hoc vending

–– says opportunities exist for people to be gainfully employed

By Jared Liddell THE growing ‘road side hustle’ trend will soon come to an end, following joint consultations with the Ministry of Public Works, the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development and the Georgetown Mayor and City Council.

This is according to Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, who expressed his disgust with people who set up shop and sell out of their vehicles at the side of the road and in the process, impede traffic

the growing issue.

“It is a violation, it is a serious traffic-safety issue…Now, just look here, dog food, everything selling; every time somebody stops to buy something on a four-lane road, you’re backing up traffic. It’s not something that is desirable,” the Public Works Minister lamented during a tour of the works ongoing on the Sherriff Street/Mandela road project on Saturday.

He stated that while the government intends to have the vendors voluntarily relocate from these established points through

period, people were out of jobs, people were basically hustling for survival and we did not want to unnecessarily interrupt economic activities, but the way our country is going we got to stop lawlessness.

“Everybody cannot come out on a pave or a minibus or canter, can’t park on a roadway and start selling…because what we are seeking to do – to improve travel time, greater accessibility, greater safety of our people -- will not be achieved with that kind of operation,” the Public Works Minister empha-

A car in one of the two lanes on the East Bank Public Road just off Mandela Avenue stopped to make a purchase from one of the roadside vendors (Elvin Croker photo) mented several systems that could provide direct revenues for earning and, so, he encouraged vendors to take the necessary steps to benefit from the initiatives.

He reminded that the government has invested significantly in the ICT sector; the agricultural sector, directly in agro-processing; and in the construction sector through the Ministry of Housing and Water, to provide job opportunities

more long term, because we don’t want to come in and just say you got to move.

People must be able to have some alternatives and we’re saying, start looking for alternatives,” Minister Edghill stated.

NOT JUST REGION FOUR Meanwhile, the minister highlighted that while the issue of roadside vending along main roads are prev-

the roadside hustle, especially at major intersections.

And it’s not only here; it’s on the West Demerara, at Linden it’s the same thing developing and I’m putting everybody on notice.”

Minister Edgill again reminded that the establishment of these vending sites on unapproved public spaces are directly affecting the government’s promise of progress.

“We cannot continue

Two semi-permanent vending structure set up along the East Bank Public road on Saturday (Elvin Croker photo) and put people’s lives at risk.

He said the “lawlessness” needs to end.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit in March 2020, a growing trend has developed along the roadways with vendors setting up temporary makeshift stands to facilitate selling of various items including bread and “dog food.”

A significant portion of these vending operations have been set up along high- traffic intersections of the main roadways along the Sheriff/Mandela fourlane highway and the DSL turn, extending along the East Bank Demerara Public Road.

According to Minister Edghill, this poses a significant threat to the safe use of Guyana’s roadways. He noted that the government has already assessed the challenges arising from these operations and is working on ways to address

moral persuasion, it is not opposed to utilising the law to have those persons removed.

“And we have to do a lot more public awareness.

You see, I believe in the first instance, we should try moral persuasion and voluntary compliance, but let me make it very clear, I am not afraid of the fist and using the enforcement of the laws.”

Minister Edghill acknowledged that the government was lenient with vendors during the initial onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic which left many persons jobless and without means to look after their families; however, he said systems must be put in place to remedy the “lawlessness” that occurs due to the establishment of these ‘road side hustle’ ventures.

“We have been quite lenient in the pandemic period and I say that gracefully because in the pandemic

sised.

He reminded that many of these newly erected structures are not only impeding traffic, but they also prevent the cleaning of nearby drains and maintenance of roads.

The Public Works Minister stated that in many cases, maintenance vehicles cannot operate without potentially destroying these structures and are forced to halt necessary ‘up-keep’ work.

OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE Meanwhile, Minister Edghill encouraged the vendors to look at other avenues that they can utilise to make money, noting that with Guyana returning to some level of normalcy since the COVID-19 pandemic, there are many opportunities available.

He noted that the government recently imple-

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill along with engineers as they assess the progress on the Sheriff/Mandela expansion project on Saturday (Elvin Croker photo) for a significant number of Guyanese.

“We’re coming out of that pandemic period where people could get back their lives in order and we would hope with the creation of new jobs, which President [Irfaan] Ali has been pushing…that some of the people who are now literally hustling at the road corner will seek to get something

alent in -Georgetown, it is not peculiar to Region Four.

He said the government has been taking note of the areas where this is most prevalent and has already planned to target roadside vending in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) and Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice), following its inter-ministerial discussions.

“We just can’t continue

the lawlessness of ‘I’m a single mother,’ or ‘I’m a single parent’ or ‘I’m a poor man making a hustle.’

“Because while you’re making a hustle, you’re interfering with development, you’re interfering with progress and you’re contributing towards lawlessness and we cannot continue to have that,” Minister Edghill stated.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 24, 2021

High-level Barbados team exploring investments in Guyana –– seeking to strengthen collaboration in housing, construction sectors

FOLLOWING a recent visit to Barbados by President Dr. Irfaan Ali, a high-level Barbadian team has returned the favour by coming here to seek investment opportunities, and to strengthen collaborative efforts between the two Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nations.

The visiting delegation is headed by Barbadian Minister of Transport, Works and Maintenance Dr. William Duguid, and will be exploring opportunities in Guyana’s housing and construction sectors, facilitated by discussions with the government and private sector during their three-day stay.

As part of the visit, the Barbados Housing and Investment team met on Saturday with officials from the Ministry of Housing and Water, and the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.

During a familiarisation

Barbados’ Minister of Transport, Works and Maintenance, Dr. William Duguid takes a quick photograph of a housing development while touring the locality on Saturday

Seated from left at Saturday’s meeting at the Aurthur Chung Conference Centre are: Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues; Barbados’ Minister of Housing, Land and Maintenance, Dr. William Duguid; Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal; and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Housing and Water Andre Ally session, the Barbadian team was briefed on Guyana’s housing policies, and the functions of the CHPA, and both counterparts shared information on the operations of their respective housing sectors.

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal talked about Guyana’s being on the cusp of rapid development, noting that in the first half of 2021, it has already recorded a 25 per cent growth in the con-

struction sector, which is testimony to the work being done in the housing sector.

According to the press release on the visit, Minister Croal promoted partnership between the two nations, and extended an invitation for investment, highlighting that Guyana has huge potential, and is seeking to expand its housing drive.

He also touched briefly on the changes in legislation, such as the Condominium Act, and the strides being made with the ongoing process for the Single Window Processing System, all of which will pave the way for ease of access for investors venturing into business with Guyana.

VERY IMPRESSED According to the release, Dr. Duguid was impressed by Guyana’s comprehensive housing policies which seek to meet the needs of people from all walks of life, specifically the Mortgage Interest Relief Programme, and the Young Professional Housing initiative.

He committed to working with the local authorities in the housing and construction sectors, and called for more publicity of the investment opportunities within the sectors, as well as for more platforms to exchange skills and knowledge in the construction sector.

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues highlighted that the delegation is visiting at an exciting time for Guyana, when economic growth is skyrocketing, and it is being touted as one of the most attractive destinations for investment.

Highlighting that the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) administration allocated close to 10,000 house lots in their first year in office, Minister Rodrigues said it is evidence of the government’s ability to deliver on their promises.

The Barbadian team comprised of Timothy Maynard, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Housing, Lands and Rural Development; Kelly Hunte,

Senior Housing Planner; Ian Gill, General Manager of the National Housing Corporation; and Ian Foster, Chief Technical Officer.

A team from the Barbados Investment and Development Corporation, including Mark Hill, Chief Executive Officer (CEO); Paul Waithe, Manager Bio-economy; Marina Taitt, Director of Quality; and Sharon Walton, Director of Quality Guyana, also forms part of the visiting delegation.

GUIDED TOUR Following the presentation at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, the Barbados Housing and Investment Mission team was taken on a guided tour of several key housing and infrastructure development sites.

They visited the Cummings Lodge Housing Development Scheme; the Eccles to Mandela Highway access bridge; the Providence Young Professional Housing Development Scheme; the Prospect Low-income Housing Development Scheme; and the Windsor Estate Private Development Scheme.

The tour was facilitated

by Ministers Croal and Rodrigues, as well as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Housing and Water, Andre Ally; CEO of the CHPA, Sherwyn Greaves; Director of Projects, Omar Narine; and other technical and support staff of both ministries.

While in Barbados for the 15th Session of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD 15) earlier in October, President Ali and Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, engaged in bilateral discussions, as they sought to strengthen relations between the two nations.

President Ali and Prime Minister Mottley had also discussed several initiatives to advance cooperation and investment in the areas of agriculture and fisheries, oil and gas, mining, forestry, tourism, the hospitality industry, transportation, housing and water resources.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 24, 2021

‘Roundabout’ under construction to link Eccles/Mandela four-lane highway

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, engaging the media at the site proposed for the roundabout that will connect the Mandela Four Lane Highway with the Eccles Four Lane Highway (Elvin Croker photo)

By Jared Liddell IN keeping with the government’s promise of innovative infrastructure, two of the country’s newest four lane highways - the Mandela Avenue, Georgetown highway and the Eccles, East Bank of Demerara (EBD) four lane highway are expected to be connected by way of a roundabout at the “Multi-School” turn.

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, made this dis-

closure during an assessment of the Sheriff/Mandela Road expansion project on Saturday. He said the roundabout requires joint collaboration between the contractors to ensure that the adequate infrastructure is put in place.

Work on the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) funded US$31 million, Sheriff/Mandela four lane highway began on August 2018 with the contract for the project being awarded to Sinohydro Corporation

Limited in November 2017.

The Public Works Minister noted that this type of collaboration is necessary since works on the Sheriff/ Mandela four lane highway begun several years before the conceptualisation of the $2.3 billion Eccles four lane highway.

“At the time when this contract [the Sheriff/Mandela expansion] was signed and conceptualised, that road [the Eccles four lane highway] was not coming there.

So, the contractor that is building the Sheriff Mandela Road would have to cede some space to the contractor that is coming through.

Currently, there is a joint collaboration in terms of the designing and the smooth layout and interconnectivity between the contractor that is building that four lane [the Eccles four lane highway] and the contractor that is building these four lanes [the Sheriff/Mandela expansion],” Minister Edghill explained.

Edghill disclosed that the government is already in possession of proposals

and artists’ renditions of the roundabout, adding that the contract for the roundabout has already been awarded to Jr. Sammy Inc. He noted that propriety work has already commenced on the roundabout but no estimated time for completion has yet been announced. Minister Edghill noted that some issues are expected to be “sorted out” this week.

“Sinohydro contractor cannot proceed with paving and bringing the median and all of that around because a roundabout is going here and there is need for some finalising up to where Sinohydro will cease work and where the contractor that is doing the roundabout will take over.”

The Eccles to Mandela concrete four-lane highway is expected to significantly reduce traffic congestion.

The infrastructural project, which is slated for completion by December 2021,

is being undertaken by the Ministry of Housing and Water.

Minister Edghill noted that these types of interconnected highways are not just to “check a box” for the government, but to ensure that all Guyanese have easier access to travel their country daily.

“We want to deliver that four lane which the people of Guyana are waiting on and we have to be able to deliver these four lanes which the people of Guyana are eagerly waiting on. So we’re going

to have that connectivity and this is going to be an enhancement.

“Because what is going to happen, people who are going to the airport don’t need to continue down Mandela to DSL. Once they come off Sheriff here, they get the roundabout, straight to the Eccles four lane; that four lane should be able to take them to Diamond, getting past all the bridge traffic and everything else, so it’s easier on everyone,” the Public Works Minister noted.

The proposed site for the Eccles/Mandela highway interconnecting roundabout (Elvin Croker photo)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 24, 2021

37 house lots allocated to low-income families in Berbice

LIFE for 37 low-income families in the Mahaica-Berbice region (Region Five) has changed for the better as they are now land owners in the Balthyock Housing Scheme.

This is in keeping with a commitment by Susan Rodrigues, Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, just two weeks ago. The

lots were allocated during a simple ceremony, on Friday, at the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) office at Fort Wellington where residents were also presented their offer letters by the minister.

Minister Rodrigues, during her charge, noted that providing housing solutions for low-income and vulnerable groups is a major priority

of the government.

“We know how much it means to the ordinary Guyanese to be able to own a plot of land and to own a home,” the minister stated.

She explained that the Balthyock Scheme was initially developed to relocate informal settlers from the sea defense reserve nearby. Relocation began in 2012 with

seven families relocated and households within the block were regularised. However, another portion of the area comprising of 37 lots was not allocated due to the incompletion of infrastructural works.

During an outreach to Blairmont in May, the residents bemoaned the situation to the minister who returned

One of the low-income families in the Mahaica-Berbice region receiving their title from Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues two weeks ago to announce the awarding of a $20 million contract for infrastructural works to develop the area and the resumption of allocations.

Fifteen families who are still residing on the reserve will be allocated, while the remaining 22 lots will be distributed to residents within the neighborhood, who have outstanding house lot applications.

The allocation is expected to improve the lives of the allottees, as they will now have access to Certificates of Title and basic utilities such as electricity and water as well as roads and other infrastructure.

On Friday, the minister further announced the development of another area close

by, which will yield another 300 house lots for residents.

“There are over 3,500 outstanding applications in our backlog, so we have to work assiduously to make house lots available for this region,” the Minister said, citing an ongoing land acquisition process in Region Five.

Also present at the allocation exercise were Member of Parliament and Regional Representative, Faizal Jafferally; Regional Chairman, Vickchand Ramphal; Regional Housing Officer, Krisendat Balkaran; Director of Community Development at the Central Housing and Planning Authority, Gladwin Charles and other officials.

(Ministry of Housing and Water press release)

Minibus conductor busted with marijuana

WARREN Broomes, 33, of Lot K7 Edon Street, Tucville Housing Scheme Georgetown, was arrested by the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), on Friday, after he was found with 44.5 grams of cannabis concealed in ziploc bags.

The seized cannabis in the ziploc bags

Warren Broomes According to CANU, Broomes who is a minibus conductor, was intercepted while an operation was being conducted at Macaw Road and Arapaima Street, Tucville Georgetown, in the vicinity of Turning Point Sports club.

He was then taken to CANU Headquarters and is currently in custody pending charges.

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COVID-19 Task Force issues bulletin for Donna Samaroo Ms Donna Dhanmatie Samaroo THE National Covid-19 Task Force is urgently trying to make contact with Guyanese citizen Ms. Donna Dhanmatie Samaroo, of 135-47124th Street Jamaica NY (passport number R0825712), who arrived in Guyana on October 15, 2021.

Persons who are acquainted with Ms Donna Dhanmatie Samaroo are requested to inform her to make urgent contact with the National COVID-19 Task Force on telephone numbers 223-6604/223-6602, email address covid19secretariatgy@outlook.com or contact our office at 252 Quamina Street, Georgetown.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 24, 2021

Distribution of cash grant to pensioners almost complete in Regions 2, 10

THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security continues the distribution of the one-off cash grants and 2022 pension books, almost completing Regions Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam) and Ten (Upper Demerara/ Upper Berbice).

Subject minister, Dr. Vindhya Persaud and a team from the ministry visited all of the distribution sites in the two regions in a week-long exercise, including Bamia, Ameila’s Ward, Bayrock, Wismar, Watooka, Coomaka, and Christianburg.

She commenced her visit to Region Two at Charity Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), and moved on to other locations such as Anna Regina and Hampton Court, among the rest.

“The entire team pitched in to serve people. Whatever it took, they jumped in to help. The rains gave us some challenges but we persevered until it was done,” she commented.

So far in the exercise, Regions Five and Six have already been completed, with Region Four almost done.

As she continues to visit distribution sites, Dr. Persaud is using the opportunity to take the ministry’s services to residents and even provide hampers to communities in need. In fact, during her visit to Region Ten last week, the team distributed over 200 hampers at Silver Hill, Chinese Road in Moblissa and Bamia.

The ministry also distributed 75 pairs of spectacles at Coomaka. A similar activity was undertaken in Essequibo recently which saw the distribution of 140 pairs of

spectacles and a total of 200 hampers.

“When I thought about the spectacles initiative, I knew how important it was going to be to help persons perform everyday tasks. Just under 1,500 spectacles later, the joy on people’s faces and their eagerness to do activities that they could not for some time because they were not seeing well, makes it all worthwhile,” Dr. Persaud expressed.

Head of the Ministry’s Difficult Circumstances Unit, Mahendra Budhram, explained: “We found in some places that an entire family was using one pair of spectacles so Minister Persaud decided to expand this initiative so that more persons can benefit.”

Several residents have expressed appreciation at this gesture by the Ministry.

“The eyes are a little blurred but since I got my spectacles I’m seeing well. I think it’s a wonderful venture and it saves us a lot so I don’t have to go to Linden or Georgetown to get my eyes tested,” one resident, Winston David, expressed.

Verna Wilson-Thom, another resident, said as soon as she put on her new glasses, she saw everything clearly.

“I see everything clear and lovey. I wasn’t expecting to see so clearly. I do a lot of reading and studies so without spectacles, I really can’t do anything,” she said.

Meanwhile, an extra week will be provided at the end of this month for those who would have missed the distribution exercise in Georgetown. As for residents on the East Coast and East

Minister Persaud and her team helping out at one of the distribution sites in Region Ten

Bank Demerara who missed collection, they are being urged to visit the regular distribution sites in their respective areas.

While the 2022 pension book will be available

throughout the year, the voucher is time bound, as it has to be cashed by November 30 at any post office or any of the other locations, such as Sure Pay.

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Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, interacts with persons conducting the exercise at one of the distribution sites

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Boats seized with $20M in drugs onboard

LAW enforcement officers seized $20M in cannabis sativa in two boats along the Berbice River, during an operation in the wee hours of Saturday.

Police Headquarters revealed that the boats were seized in Plegtanker Village and Light Town along the Berbice River.

Under the supervision

of an Assistant Superintendent, a total of 672 pounds (305.45kg) of suspected cannabis were seized. The first bust occurred in a wooden white and green boat, with a 75hp Yamaha engine that was seen on the river bank, in the vicinity of Plegtanker Village.

According to the police report, ranks upon approaching the boat, ob-

SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 24, 2021

served that it contained five black bulky plastic bags, which contained a quantity of seeds, leaves and stems, suspected to be cannabis. The area was searched but no one was seen.

Further, while the ranks were escorting the boat and narcotics to the Central Police Station, another wooden boat pow-

The bulky plastic bags which contained a quantity of seeds, leaves and stems, suspected to be cannabis ered by an 115hp Yamaha engine was seen in the Berbice River in the vicinity of Light Town, with four occupants.

Upon seeing the police team, the boat’s operator drove it on to the river bank causing the boat to slide into a clump of nearby bushes and the four occupants ran further into the nearby bushes and made good their escape.

The boat was boarded by the ranks who discovered 30 bulky parcels wrapped in transparent plastic containing a quantity of suspected cannabis.

The area was subsequently combed but the suspects were not seen.

Police Headquarters noted that the boats along with the narcotics were taken to the Central Police Station, where the narcotics was weighed and amounted to a total of 672 pounds (305.45kg) with a street value of $20M. Investigations continue.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 24, 2021

100 new COVID-19 cases; death toll climbs to 894

THE Ministry of Health has registered 100 new cases of people infected with the COVID-19 virus, taking the country’s number of active cases to 3,498, while one more person who tested positive died on Friday last, taking the overall death toll to 894.

The latest fatality is a 56-year-old male from Region Four (Demerara – Mahaica) who died while receiving treatment at a government medical institution. The man was partially vaccinated, meaning he had only received one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

The 100 new positive

cases were detected from some 1,323 tests conducted within the 24-hour period; this takes the overall number of confirmed cases to 34,997. The bulk of new cases continues to be recorded in Region Four (Demerara – Mahaica), which saw 44 people testing positive.

Region One (Barima – Waini) recorded four new cases; Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) recorded 15; Region Three (Essequibo Islands – West Demerara), seven; Region Five (Mahaica – Berbice), 11; Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), five; Region Seven (Cuyuni – Mazaruni), three; Region

Eight (Potaro – Sipuruni), four; Region Nine (Upper Takutu – Upper Essequibo), one and Region 10 (Upper Demerara – Berbice), six.

There are currently 18 persons in the COVID-19

Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Infectious Diseases Hospital; four are in institutional isolation; 3,370 are in home isolation and four persons in institutional quarantine.

All Guyanese are

reminded to observe the protocols of the COVID-19 emergency measures, which are in effect until October 31, 2021.

If anyone is displaying any of the symptoms as-

sociated with COVID-19, or need any additional information, kindly contact the COVID-19 Hotline 231-1166, 226-7480 or 624-6674 immediately or visit us at www.health. gov.gy

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England bowl West Indies out for 55 in six-wicket win and Shimron Hetmyer within three accurate overs.

Mills marked his turnaround from injury nightmare to international recall by having Gayle caught in his first over at a World Cup. Adil Rashid, usually England’s big T20 threat, was not needed until the 11th over, but when he was introduced he bowled Andre Russell with his first ball.

The leg-spinner went on to blow away the tail.

WEST INDIES FAIL TO FIRE England were excellent but West Indies’ performance with the bat raised questions about their method in T20 cricket.

England bowled 43

dot balls in the first 10 overs, their most in that period since 2012.

We s t I n d i e s ’ a p proach seemed to be to block or try to hit a six - or, on this occasion, block or bust - as batters fell repeatedly to attacking strokes.

They salvaged some pride with the ball, Akeal Hosein taking a fine diving catch to have Liam Livingstone caught and bowled, and all is not lost for them, with the top-two teams in the two six-team groups progressing to the semi-finals.

Two of the three lowest scores in T20 World Cup history have now been scored in the last two days - Sri Lanka bowled the Netherlands out for 44 on

Friday - while Australia and South Africa played out a low-scoring thriller earlier yesterday.

The early signs are that this may not be a high-scoring World Cup. ‘We need to take it on the chest as big men’ - what they said: England captain Eoin Morgan: “To start a world tournament or campaign like that, full credit has to go to our bowling unit.

“He (Moeen) summed up conditions beautifully, hit his lengths well and took chances when his match-ups were right.

“I am delighted for big T (Mills). He has had an incredibly unfortunate journey throughout his career. He is

as good as I have seen him.”

West Indies captain Kieron Pollard: “Being bowled out for 55 is unacceptable. It was plain to see. I don’t think we were good enough on all counts.

“We need to take it on the chest as big men.

Sometimes you just have to bin it and move on. It’s very important we forget a game like this.”

England spinner Adil Rashid: “As a b o w l i n g g ro u p w e bowled exceptionally well. Everything fell into plan. Moeen started off brilliantly, along with Woakes, and then Tymal, CJ and myself we backed up really well.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Sunday October 24, 2021) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Australia & South Africa (2) 2010 Today’s Quiz: (1) Who were the losing finalist when the WI won the 2012 T20 World Cup? (2) Who were the losing finalist when the WI won the 2016 T20 World Cup? Answers in tomorrow’s issue ………………………………………

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 24, 2021

Lakers players Davis, Howard row during defeat by Phoenix

LOS Angeles Lakers teammates Anthony Davis (AD) and Dwight Howard were involved in a sideline row during Friday’s 115-105 defeat by Phoenix Suns.

Davis and Howard squared up to each other on the bench during a timeout and had to be separated by team-mates in the first half.

“We squashed it right then and there,” said Howard about the altercation.

“We’re both passionate about winning and didn’t want to lose. But we’re grown men, we got it out the way.”

He added: “There’s no issue between me and him - that’s my brother, my teammate.”

The defeat for Lakers means they have lost both their opening games of the new NBA season.

“Dwight and AD had a

Another incident in the game involved Lakers guard Rajon Rondo having a run-in with a fan during the third quarter.

Rondo pointed at a man

after a soft drink was thrown or spilled on the sidelines and, after the fan slapped Rondo’s hand away, the supporter was escorted away by security guards.

Chris Paul had starred for the Suns with 23 points and a game-high 14 assists in their victory, becoming the first player in NBA history to register 20 000 points and 10 000 assists.

Elsewhere, Kevin Durant scored a 29-point triple-double for Brooklyn Nets as they turned around a 10-point deficit late on to beat Philadelphia 76ers 114-109.

Nets came back from 108-98 down with only five minutes remaining in the fourth quarter and Durant finished with 15 rebounds 12 assists along with his 29-points. (BBC Sport)

Former India prolific batsman Rahul Dravid proposal this time around, tised. If he wants to apply, We all believe the NCA although Ganguly revealed then he will,” Ganguly said has a big role in developthat he has “only read it in on the ‘Salaam Cricket’ ing the future of Indian newspapers”, putting those show of Aaj Tak. cricket. NCA creates the confirmations on hold.

“Right now, he (Rahul next generation of Indian “There’s no confirma- Dravid) is the director of cricketers. So, he wanted tion, I only read it in the NCA. He came to meet us to discuss that,” Ganguly newspapers. There is due in Dubai to talk about NCA added. process. It has been adver- - How to take it forward.

Ganguly stated that

much like the previous occasions, Dravid is not “that interested” to take the role this time too. “We had a chat with him earlier too on whether he wants to take up the coaching role of the senior side, but he didn’t seem that interested.

His stand is pretty much the same even now. He asked for some time. Let’s see what happens.”

Dravid has previously served as India’s overseas batting consultant in 2018. He also travelled as the team’s coach to Sri Lanka for the limited-overs series in July, in the absence of Shastri, Arun and Vikram Rathour, who were all involved with the Indian Test squad in the United Kingdom from early June to mid-September for the World Test Championship final and the five-Test Pataudi trophy against England. (CricTracker)

Anthony Davis (left) and Dwight Howard could not prevent a second successive defeat for the Lakers miscue on a coverage and they talked it out,” said Lakers coach Frank Vogel.

“When you’re getting your ass kicked, sometimes those conversations get heat-

ed.

“Those guys love each other, they talked it out. And that’s going to happen from time to time - I’d rather our guys care than not care.”

No confirmation on Dravid’s appointment - Ganguly FORMER India batsman and Board of Control for Cricket of India (BCCI) president, Sourav Ganguly, has broken his silence on Rahul Dravid’s appointment as Team India head coach after the incumbent Ravi Shastri’s tenure comes to an end.

Shastri informed the BCCI earlier that the T20 World Cup 2021 will be his final assignment with the team, with bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R. Sridhar also set to leave their posts after the conclusion of the multi-team tournament, which ends on November 14.

Dravid, 48, has been considered as the front-runner to take over the baton from Shastri, who has been with the team ever since 2017. Dravid, who has been previously offered the role but denied twice, had reportedly agreed with BCCI’s

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, OCTOber 24, 2021

Pakistan players to receive massive bonus if they defeat India PAKISTAN players are in line to receive a massive bonus if they defeat arch-rivals India in their T20 World Cup 2021 clash today in Dubai.

Notably, India lead the head-to-head tally 12-0 currently, having defeated their Asian rivals five times in the T20 World Cups previously, apart from seven times in ODI World Cups.

Meanwhile, recent reports suggest that if Babar Azam’s men manage to defeat India, they will get a 50 per cent increase in match fees – roughly around PKR

170 000 as per the central contracts.

As per a report on Cricket Pakistan, a player’s current

A first-half masterclass from Manchester City saw them win at Brighton and move back up to second in the Premier League.

The reigning champions were untouchable for 45 minutes as Phil Foden scored twice after the recalled Ilkay Gundogan had opened the scoring.

Brighton were much better after the interval and arguably deserved more than the consolation given to them from the penalty spot by Alexis Mac Allister, with Riyad Mahrez striking late on as City left the south coast with a 4-1 win.

Raheem Sterling scored

a hat-trick here two seasons ago but, with his City future unclear, he was not involved as Pep Guardiola pointed to a lack of fitness.

City’s players warmed up in shirts which carried the message “We’re with you Guido” in support of supporter Guido De Pauw, who was attacked following the Champions League win over Club Brugge on Tuesday night.

The travelling fans also unfurled a banner with the same slogan of support as the teams emerged ahead of kick-off.

Joao Cancelo, sent off here after 10 minutes last season, forced a fine low

TRIPLE Olympic Games gold medallist Elaine Thompson-Herah has been nominated for World Athletics Female Athleteof-the-Year for the second-straight season after she was named among 10 nominees.

Thompson-Herah is coming off one of the greatest seasons ever by a sprinter, male or female, successfully defending her Olympics sprint double title at the Games in Tokyo, Japan, and adding a 4x100m relay gold, all three in new national records.

Her 10.54 seconds in the

100m and 21.53 seconds in the 200m are also the second-fastest ever, only behind the late Florence Griffiths-Joyner, set 33 years ago in 1988.

The full list of women includes three who set world records - Yulimar Rojas of Venezuela, who added the outdoors triple-jump record when she won the Olympic gold, to the Indoor record she had set earlier; American Sydney McLaughlin, who broke the world record in the 400m hurdles, the second time in the Olympic finals; and Holland’s Sifan Hassan who

match fees stand at PKR 338 250, which means that winning against India will help them earn more than PKR

500 000.

“The same increment will apply if Pakistan beat number one-ranked T20 side in the world, which is currently England,” it adds. If the team goes on to win the tournament, the players are understood to receive a 300 per cent increase in their respective match fees. The winners of the tournament will take home a US$1.6M cheque, as announced by the ICC before the start of the tournament.

Meanwhile, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly is confident that India will

extend their spotless World Cup streak against Pakistan to 13-0.

“Yes, there is a huge possibility of 13-0 happening and India extending their unbeaten streak against Pakistan in this World Cup. All the players in this Indian team are genuine match-winners and with fingers crossed thay can finally end their 10 years wait of winning a world cup. Pakistan are also a good team. If one or two players click, then anything can happen. To win the mental battle is important. I feel it will be a great match!”

Ganguly told ABP news.

“It’s not like India will win every time. It is only natural that there will be gaps between World Cup wins.

India won the World Cup in 2011, as well as in 2007. We played the final in 2003 and 2014.

“Even in 2017, we played Champions Trophy final but lost to Pakistan.

Indian cricket is so strong that we will keep getting chances to play the final.

Even this year we are hopeful. India are a big contender, but fingers crossed,” he added. (CricTracker)

save out of Robert Sanchez having collected a pass from Jack Grealish, who had made a lively start to the evening.

Gabriel Jesus came within inches of opening the scoring moments later but his effort was acrobatically cleared away from under his own crossbar by Seagulls skipper Lewis Dunk.

Unfortunately for Dunk, City would open the scoring from their next attack as Sanchez spilled a Foden cross under pressure from Jesus and Bernardo Silva hooked the ball to Gundogan, who finished into an empty net.

A short VAR check for a foul on Sanchez saw the goal

stand and was just reward for a dominant start.

The lead was doubled before the half hour, Bernardo starting a swift counter-attack and feeding Grealish whose low cross was turned home by England team-mate Foden.

Two would become three shortly afterwards as a Grealish shot was blocked into the path of Jesus, whose own strike deflected off a seemingly unwitting Foden and past Sanchez.

Brighton were not at the races but almost pulled one back before half-time as Ederson let a Solly March shot squirm through his grip

before recovering in time to prevent a calamitous goal.

City had been superb in the first half but, unlike league leaders Chelsea who had thrashed Norwich 7-0 earlier in the day, they could not continue their form throughout the evening.

Ederson had a similar experience at the start of the second half having to recover from a spill from Pascal Gross’ shot to keep the ball out of the reach of Neal Maupay.

Leandro Trossard was next to test Ederson, who was much the busier of the two goalkeepers since the

interval.

Guardiola responded by bringing on Fernandinho in place of Gundogan for the final 17 minutes but Brighton remained on top as the City boss prowled the touchline, irked with a number of his players.

Referee Kevin Friend pointed to the spot with nine minutes to go after adjudging Ederson had fouled Enock Mwepu, with fellow substitute Mac Allister making no mistake from the resulting penalty before Mahrez added the finishing touch to City’s display. (PA Sport)

Elaine Thomson-Herah won two gold medals in the Olympics in the 5 000m and 10 000m and was third in the 1500m.

Also American Valarie Allman who won the Olympic discus throw title and later broke the American record; Jasmine Camacho-Quinn of Puerto Rico who won the Olympics 100m hurdles; Faith Kipyegon of Kenya who won the Olympics and Diamond League 1500m titles; Mariya Lasitskene, an authorised neutral athlete who won the Olympics and Diamond League high jump; Shaunae Miller-Uibo of the Bahamas who retained her Olympics 400m title and teenaged American Athing Mu who won the Olympics 800m

title.

The men’s list was released a day earlier and is headed by Norway’s Karsten Warholm, who broke the world record in the 400m hurdles, while retaining his Olympic title and American Ryan Crouser, who broke both the indoor and outdoor world records and was undefeated the entire year.

Also Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei, the Olympics 5 000m champion and 10 000m silver medallist; Sweden’s Mondo Duplantis, the Olympics polevault champion; Jakob In-

gebrigtsen of Norway, the Olympics and European indoor 1,500m champion; Eliud Kipchoge of Kenya, who won the Olympics marathon; Portugal’s Pablo Pedro Pichardo, the Olympic Games, Diamond League, and European indoor triple jump champion; Daniel Stahl of Sweden who won the Olympics discus throw, Miltiadis Tentoglou of Greece who won the Olympic Games long jump and Damion Warner of Canada who won the Olympics decathlon gold medal. (Jamaica Observer)

Pakistan players to receive massive bonus if they beat India today in Dubai

Foden scores twice as masterful Man City ease to win at Brighton

Thompson-Herah among nominees for World Athletics Female Athlete-of-the-Year

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 24, 2021

GFF vaunts delivery of elite training to children across Guyana MORE than 700 girls and boys across Guyana are receiving the benefit of the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) elite youth football development training as all regional GFF Academy Training Centres (ATC) have now returned to action.

In a release, the GFF said their ground-breaking academy programme, launched in 2016 and the first of its kind in the Caribbean, is an elite, selective national youth development programme, which gives girls and boys aged between six and 19 a weekly, structured training curriculum that is anchored in its football philosophy and deliv-

Attendees of the Georgetown Academy Training Centre during a session at the GFC ground ered consistently across the nine Regional Associations.

The GFF delegated the running of the ATC programme to its Regional Associations as part of its efforts to build capacity at

local level, supported by the pioneering GFF Members Financial Assistance Programme (M-FAP), which is unique in the Caribbean region and provides unprecedented levels of finan-

cial and logistical backing for regional football programmes.

“We are delighted to see all of the academies up and running again in a safe and secure environment after the significant disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said GFF president Wayne Forde.

According to Forde: “The ATC programme is the jewel in the crown of our administration, and we are determined to continue to invest heavily in supporting our members as they take up the mantle to drive youth football development across the country.”

Forde added that “the future stars of our nation-

al teams will be coming through these programmes, as they are already doing, from youth level to the senior sides.”

The ATC programme is intended to enhance the quality of football development by exposing talented girls and boys to regular training sessions from GFF-certified coaches as they work towards the internationally recommended target of 10 000 hours of deliberate practice that is required to develop elite players for professional football.

The programme, along with its grassroots component, is actively increasing the player population, im-

proving coaching standards under the expert guidance and financial backing of the GFF Technical Department, acting as a talent-scouting pathway for the national teams, and enhancing the administration of football at regional level.

It also provides a platform for regular competition among the Regional Associations.

Many of the talented players participating in the academies today were scouted during the delivery of the U-15 and U1-7 intra-association tournaments, which were made possible by generous sponsorship from NAMILCO and the Pele Alumni.

ing Manager and Devanand Indar as Public Relations Officer.

The following five persons were elected as Committee members: Kelvin Singh, Corwin Austin, Sunil Ramlall, Harry Persaud and Darren Manohar. Lloyd Ramessar and Jonte Thomas are the new Trustees while Nadeem Khan was elected as Auditor.

The positions of Chairman of the Senior Selectors and Chairman of the Junior Selectors will be filled at the first meeting of the new Executive Committee. It is expected that all Sub-Committees will be named also at

that meeting.

President Puneet Jaigopaul, in a brief address, thanked the members for the confidence placed in him and his committee and gave the assurance that he will work diligently towards developing cricket on the East Bank Demerara.

He added that the early priorities will be preparation of grounds, sponsorship and acquisition of cricket gear. He concluded by requesting the full support and cooperation of all the member clubs.

et stalwart.

It was Mr Roper who coordinated the varying commercial relationships with West Indies cricket for more than two decades at home and abroad.

Sandals’ financial contribution, through the most recent four-year period of commercial sponsorship, provided much-needed capital to CWI for investing in players and tournaments across all formats of the game.

Sandals had also previously entered into shorter-term sponsorships with CWI on a number of specifi0c tours to the United Kingdom (UK), one of the

major tourism markets where Sandals received a significant return on investment from its partnership with West Indies cricket. Sandals was the first-ever West Indies sponsor to have their logo across the chest of the Test teams.

“Over the course of many years CWI and Sandals were able to achieve many positives, including the fact that it was CWI and the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB), who, one year ago, jointly led the resumption of international cricket at all levels following the initial Pandemic shutdown.

Sandals’ encouragement and support for that historic CWI

Jaigopaul elected president of EBCA PUNEET Jaigopaul was recently elected unopposed as president of the East Bank Cricket Association (EBCA) at elections held at the Farm/Herstelling, NDC office.

In a release from the EBCA yesterday, it was also announced that Abhilash Dookie and Clement Archer will serve as the vice-presidents to Jaigopaul.

The important position of secretary went to Fazal Ishak while Asif Ishak will be his assistant, while. Waqar Bacchus and Ms Sohini Narine

The new East Bank Cricket Association Committee will serve as treasurer and assistant treasurer respectively.

Eric Sukrah secured the

position of Competitions Committee Chairman with Patrick Khan as Market-

CWI thanks Sandals for tangible support as four-year sponsorship ends ST JOHN’S, Antigua – Cricket West Indies (CWI) thanked Sandals Resorts International for their contribution to West Indies cricket as a principal partner during the last four years.

Sandals became CWI’s principal partner, enjoying branding rights across all West Indies Men’s, Women’s, and age-group teams in 2017 - a partnership extended by a further year during the course of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The CWI Partnership with Sandals was part of the incredible legacy of the late Sandals’ Chairman, Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, who was a life-long supporter of West

Sandals became West Indies principal partner in 2017 Indies cricket and who made sure that the Sandals brand stood proudly on the shirts of all West Indian cricketers, continuously over the past four years.

CWI paid tribute earlier

this year to the loss of the iconic Mr Stewart, whose passing was closely followed by the loss of his senior management colleague David Roper, who was also a Sandals-based West Indies crick-

decision to tour the UK was much appreciated,” said CWI CEO, Johnny Grave.

“Global sports and tourism have suffered badly from the unprecedented healthbased crisis, caused by the COVID-19 Pandemic, which has reduced Caribbean travel and hospitality revenues immensely. In spite of those setbacks we were still able to encourage Sandals to extend their sponsorship for a further year.

That extended period has now come to an end, and we want to again thank Sandals and its Board for their immense contribution and long-standing support of West Indies cricket.”

31

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, OCTOber 24, 2021

Australia beat South Africa in tense Super 12 opener

AUSTRALIA made hard work of chasing 119 to beat South Africa in a tense opening Super 12 game of the T20 World Cup. Marcus Stoinis and Matthew Wade added an unbroken 40 as Australia won by five wickets with two balls

Rassie van der Dussen and Quinton de Kock - the ball spinning off his thigh pad and into the stumps - after Glenn Maxwell, opening the bowling with his off-spin, skidded one through captain Temba Bavuma.

Pat Cummins was strin-

Josh Hazlewood claimed 2 for 19, as Australia tied South Africa down (ICC via Getty) to spare in Abu Dhabi.

Steve Smith made 35 from 34 balls after Australia slipped to 38-3.

South Africa earlier laboured to 118-9, Aiden Markram hitting a fluent 40 and Josh Hazlewood, Adam Zampa and Mitchell Starc taking two wickets apiece.

Although expectation of high scores failed to materialise in the first match between two of the bigger sides after a week of qualifying, this game served up a nervous finish with Australia’s victory not certain until Stoinis hit the second ball of the final over for four.

H o w e v e r, t h e r e w a s precious little atmosphere among a sparse crowd, with only a handful of Australia and South Africa fans alongside the locals.

BOWLERS SET UP AUSTRALIA WIN Australia went into the game having lost 15 of their past 21 T20s, but they were never seriously threatened by South Africa, a late wobble with the bat aside.

They were excellent with the ball, bowling a consistent line and length to restrict South Africa, albeit with the help of some poor shot selection and chaotic running.

Hazlewood’s accuracy brought him the wickets of

gent in conceding just 19 runs in four overs, while leg-spinner Adam Zampa went for only 21 and broke South Africa open with the wickets of David Miller and Dwaine Pretorius in the same over.

Left-armer Starc struggled at times - he leaked 32 runs - but Australia seem to have all areas covered with the ball. Their death-over ability was untested and will face sterner tests against tougher opposition.

Australia lost Aaron Finch, caught at deep third, and David Warner, taken at backward point, in the powerplay of their chase before Mitch Marsh fell cheaply.

Smith and Glenn Maxwell, fresh from scoring 513 runs in the Indian Premier League, (IPL) put on 42 for the fourth wicket but fell in the space of three balls to leave Australia 81-5 in the 16th over.

That equation became 36 from four overs, but Stoinis and Wade helped Australia scrape over the line.

‘IT WAS QUITE STRESSFUL’ - WHAT THEY SAID Australia captain Aaron Finch: “The dugout was probably more relaxed than I was. It was quite stressful, but Marcus Stoinis and Mat-

thew Wade showed a really calm head.

“There were some really good match-ups for Glenn Maxwell in the powerplay, and he bowled beautifully

today. The whole bowling unit was outstanding.

“There have never been any issues among us about the losing run - we understand that guys need a rest. It

was great to have the experienced guys back tonight.”

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma: “We talk about us being resilient and there was that

opportunity. It was a big effort to take it to the last over.

“The batting didn’t go to plan - we definitely didn’t get enough.” (BBC Sport).

T20 World Cup:

By Matthew Henry ENGLAND bowled West Indies out for 55 as they made a stunning start to their Men’s T20 World Cup campaign with a six-wicket win in Dubai.

In a near-perfect bowling performance, England humiliated the defending champions by dismissing them in 14.2 overs.

Adil Rashid took a barely believable 4-2 while Moeen Ali and Tymal Mills were brilliant, both claiming 2-17.

Chris Gayle was the only West Indies batter to reach double figures in a feeble batting display - the second-lowest total against England in T20s.

Although England lost

England bowl West Indies out for 55 in six-wicket win

four wickets as they attempted to wrap up victory and increase their net runrate in Group 1 of the Super 12s, it was still a statement opening win from the world’s top-ranked side and one of the tournament favourites.

Opener Jos Buttler ended 24 not out as the chase was completed with a massive 11.4 overs to spare.

“It is as good as it gets,” said England captain Eoin Morgan.

England - bidding to become the first team to hold the 50-over and 20-over World Cups - face Bangladesh in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday and Australia in Dubai next Saturday.

Andre Russell of West Indies is bowled by Adil Rashid of England during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup match vs England at Dubai International Stadium, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images)

Leg-spinner Adil Rashid claimed four for two as West Indies were skittled out for 55

ENGLAND’S CRUSHING WIN IN NUMBERS It was the first time England have won a T20 with more than 10 overs to spare and the first time West Indies have lost with more than 10 overs to spare.

West Indies’ 55 was the third-lowest total at a T20 World Cup and their sec-

ond-lowest score in T20s.

England’s win was the fourth largest at the T20 World Cup in terms of balls remaining.

DREAM START FOR RAMPANT ENGLAND This match was a repeat of the 2016 World T20 final, won by

West Indies after Carlos Brathwaite hit four consecutive sixes in the final over.

Despite England’s batting wobble, the rematch was not as dramatic, but it was no less staggering.

West Indies are fancied to do well in this tournament, not least because of their vaunted batting line-up. But instead of

racking up runs, their batters slumped back to the dressing room in a sorry procession.

England were majestic with the ball and in the field as every move made

by Morgan came off.

After winning the toss he handed the new ball to off-spinner Moeen, who dismissed Lendl Simmons

SEE PAGE 27

Fowler, Noel, Mahaica, Persaud, heading to FINA Championship in Abu Dhabi

ANDREW Fowler (OLY), Raekwon Noel, Patrice Mahaica and Aleka Persaud (OLY) will be Guyana’s representatives at this year’s FINA Short Course World Championships in Abu Dhabi.

Andrew Fowler The December 16-21 competition will take place in the iconic Etihad Arena, which, for the occasion, will be transformed into a 25m temporary pool.

The FINA Championships

Raekwon Noel

Aleka Persaud presents another opportunity for 15-year-old Aleka Persaud to test her speed against the rest of the world, after impressing at the Olympic Games.

Persaud became the country’s youngest-ever Olympian when she competed in Japan,

where she also set a new national record in the Women’s 50m freestyle, with a time of 27.76 seconds.

Fowler, who also competed at the Olympic Games this year, will be looking to make amends for his performance

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in Tokyo.

With both Noel and Mahaica being just 15 years old in the team selected, the move is in keeping with the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association (GASA) president, Dwayne Scott’s promise of giving ex-

posure to the country’s young talent.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) will host the prestigious short-course showcase for the second time, after a successful edition in 2010 in Dubai.

(Rawle Toney)

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2021