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3rd July, 2022

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Agri-food systems, 03 climate finance, security No.106772

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–– among areas expected to take centre stage as CARICOM Heads meet in Suriname

Region Three: The new hub 02 for development opportunities PAGE

‘Guyana must heal’ 05 PAGE

–– PM Phillips tells residents of Golden Grove –– informs Bacchus’ family that authorities want justice, closure for them

Florida-based 17 health worker with 100 Sophia residents benefit Guyanese roots from business grants 13 publishes first book PAGE

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(Delano Williams photos)

Guyana to expand base in CARICOM private 15 sector organisation PAGE

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

Region Three: The new hub for development opportunities By Tamica Garnett WITH plans in place to establish a gas-to-energy project, works on a US$300 million Vreeden-Hoop Shore base facility, new private and public hospitals and the two four-lane highways in the works, Region Three

The Sheriff General Hospital is one of several major investment projects in Region Three (Delano Williams photo)

Head of the Region Three Private Sector Inc, Halim Khan

is fast becoming a hub for investment opportunities in Guyana. The massive development projects in the works are expected to vastly transform the quality of life in the region, along with the new Demerara Harbour Bridge, which is expected to make commuting easier. “Region Three is the gateway to investment opportunities. There is [sic] a lot of opportunities in Region Three which all Guy-

anese can benefit from,” Head of the Region Three Private Sector Inc. (PSI), Halim Khan, told the Guyana Chronicle on Wednesday. Prior to becoming the PSI head in 2020, Khan was the President of the Region Three Chamber of Commerce. “I had been the president for the past four years prior to 2020, and things in the region were kind of dormant because there wasn’t much opportunity in the region.

But because of the many opportunities in the works now I had to move off from the Chamber of Commerce and form the Region Three private sector body; this organisation already has numerous members, including over 60 contractors. “It was established so that if an investor comes into the region and they need something, we have all the major suppliers that we See page 12

Agri-food systems, climate finance, security

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

–– among areas expected to take centre stage as CARICOM Heads meet in Suriname

MATTERS of regional importance, including those related to agrifood systems, climate finance and security, are expected to be discussed and addressed over the next three days, as leaders converge in Suriname for the 43rd Regular Meeting of the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). Leading the way on Guyana’s behalf is President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, who is accompanied in Suriname by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd; Ambassador to CARICOM and Director of the Department of the Americas in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, George Talbot; Director-General in the Ministry of Agriculture, Mandanlall Ramraj and

Director of the Local Content Secretariat at the Ministry of Natural Resources, Martin Pertab. President Ali has said time and again that regional integration is a fundamental pillar of economic development. In March this year, Heads of Government adopted a protocol to create opportunities to further the principles, goals and objectives of the community through enhanced cooperation. The “Protocol to Amend the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas Establishing the Caribbean Community, including the CARICOM Single Market and Economy, to allow enhanced cooperation among Member States and to address related issues” was approved at the Inter-Sessional Meeting in Belize.

“It provides for groups of at least three Member States to seek to establish Enhanced Cooperation among themselves, in areas where they feel the targetted objectives cannot be attained within a reasonable period by the Community as a whole. Approval to pursue the enhanced cooperation will require the support of two-thirds of the membership of the Community,” CARICOM said. The regional body noted that decisions adopted in the specific areas of enhanced cooperation will only be binding on the participating Member States and the rights and obligations created will be solely for those Member States and their nationals. Established areas of enhanced cooperation will, however, be open

to other Member States, subject to compliance with the conditions of participation and the decisions already adopted. Areas for wider cooperation are expected to be outlined over the next three days, but, while this is the case, it is expected that there will also be an update on the COVID-19 pandemic and other emerging health issues. Additionally, the leaders of CARICOM will also receive updates on the border controversies between Guyana and Venezuela, and Belize and Guatemala. At the end of the meeting, the regional leaders are expected to ratify a number of decisions, issue a communique and select a date for their next summit, which will be held in The Bahamas.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali is greeted upon his arrival in Suriname, on Saturday, for the 43rd Regular Meeting of the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) (Office of the President photo)

President Dr. Irfaan Ali (bottom left) with other regional leaders, earlier this year, in Belize for the CARICOM 33rd Inter-sessional meeting

ALREADY, more than 3,500 Guyanese are supporting ExxonMobil’s activities in Guyana, an increase of more than 50 per cent since 2019. In an effort to ensure that local participation in the oil and gas sector increases and advances, the government introduced local content legislation this year. This paved the way for creation of a Local Content Secretariat, which governs a Local Content Registry. (Guyana Chronicle, April 6, 2022)

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

ExxonMobil signals operating profits could double over first quarter

(Reuters) - ExxonMobil Corp (XOM.N) on Friday signalled that skyrocketing margins from fuel and crude sales could generate a record quarterly profit, according to a securities filing. Energy prices have shot up this year with oil selling for more than $105 per barrel and gasoline around $5 per gallon in the United States. The enormous earnings are likely to ignite new calls for windfall profit taxes. The largest U.S. oil producer projected a sequential increase of about $7.4 billion in operating profits com-

pared with the first quarter. In the first quarter, Exxon posted an $8.8 billion profit, excluding a Russia writedown. The filing indicates a potential profit of more than $16 billion for the second quarter. The company’s peak quarterly profit was $15.9 billion in 2012. The filing showed Exxon expects higher oil and gas prices that will add about $2.9 billion to results. Margins from selling gasoline and diesel will add another $4.5 billion to operating profits. “High energy prices are

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largely a result of underinvestment by many in the energy industry over the last several years and especially during the pandemic,” Exxon said in a statement on the profit gains. Analysts tracked by IBES Refinitiv forecast a per share profit of $2.99, up from $1.10 in the same quarter a year ago. Official results for the period will be released on July 29, according to a summary of factors influencing the period disclosed late Friday. Exxon’s profits led U.S. President Joe Biden last month to say the company

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and other oil majors were capitalizing on a global oil supply shortage to fatten profits. Exxon, he said, was making “more money than God,” after posting its biggest quarterly profit in seven years. The company reacted to the president’s comments, saying it is investing more than any other producer in the United States to expand oil and natural gas production, including in the Permian, the country’s largest unconventional basin. U.S. Representative Ro Khanna on Friday said Exxon’s record-breaking profits

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People pump gas at an Exxon gas station in Brooklyn, New York City (REUTERS/Andrew Kelly) reinforce his call for Congress to pass a windfall tax on Big Oil. “Big oil companies should be providing relief to their customers, not pouring billions into stock buybacks to enrich their investors,” he said in a statement. Exxon’s shares closed up 2.2 per cent at $87.55 on Friday. Exxon, which lost more than $22 billion in 2020, has been using the extra cash from higher energy prices sales to pay debts and raise distributions to shareholders. It plans to buy back up to $30 billion of its shares through 2023. Despite losses during the pandemic, Exxon continued to invest in additional production and expects to increase output in the Permian by 25 per cent in 2022,

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the company’s spokesperson said. The second-quarter results will be the first quarterly earnings report since Exxon decided to report results by four business units, giving a more detailed breakout of its petrochemical operations. The snapshot showed that margins in its chemical and specialty products units were flat in the second quarter compared with the first. The company estimated the impact of exiting Russia would cut oil and gas profits by about $150 million compared with the first quarter. Exxon wrote down $3.4 billion in Russia assets earlier this year. Exxon also signalled a contribution of about $300 million from asset sales in the quarter.

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‘Guyana must heal’

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

–– PM Phillips tells residents of Golden Grove

–– informs Bacchus’ family that authorities want justice, closure for them PRIME Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips on Saturday addressed the family of the late Quindon Bacchus during a visit to Golden Grove, on the East Coast of Demerara, and promised them that justice would be served.

the execution of its duties. Prime Minister Phillips said: “We respect the rule of law, and we have to await the conclusion of the investigation being done by the Police Complaints Authority.” The Prime Minister, who visited several affect-

respecting differences, and by highlighting commonalities. He noted, too, that along with being a senior member of the government, he is also very Afro-centric, but a patriot to all Guyanese. “I’m a proud African Guyanese, and I’m very Af-

Some of the residents of Golden Grove with whom Prime Minister Phillips engaged on Saturday (Office of the Prime Minister photo) “We need justice; we need closure for the family,” the Prime Minister told the gathering at a Memorial Service at the Market Square, adding: “We, at the level of the Government, respect the rule of law.” He also called on the Police Complaints Authority to be more proactive in

ed East Coast Demerara communities, including Mon Repos, this week, called for Guyana to heal, and said that it is time to have progressive talks on moving forward. “The healing must start from today,” he said, noting that this must be done through discussions, by

ro-centric. And everything I do, now and in my previous position for 36 years with

the Guyana Defence Force, is for the defence and security of all the people of Guyana. Today, again, I’m working for all the people in Guyana,” Prime Minister Phillips said. He lauded the government for their drive to bridge the divide, which he called imperative in not only healing but progressing. The Prime Minister said: “All the opportunities; all the development projects; all the programmes that we as a government are designing and launching in this country are for all of Guyana.” During his ‘walkabout’ on the East Coast on Saturday, the Prime Minister visited the church, small business owners along the roadway, and the Golden Grove/Nabaclis/Haslington Community Centre, where he listened to the concerns of the residents. He promised, as per their recommendation, to carry in counsellors and social workers, and said he would speak to Commissioner of Police (ag), Clifton Hicken to follow up on the reports of damage to stall and equipment.

Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips (Office of the Prime Minister photo) IN POLITICS FOR THE PEOPLE The Prime Minister was firm that no Guyanese would be discriminated against under his watch. He said that he has travelled to all parts of Guyana, including the interior, and that he wants to improve the lives of everyone. He even shared his mobile number with the audience so as they could have open discussions with him if they feel discriminated against. “As I’m here to sympathise with Quindon Bacchus’s mother and father; I’m also ready to listen to all the people here. All the concerns that you have, and this engagement that I’m having with you today is just the beginning,” Prime

Minister Phillips said. He added that he is ready to go from village-to-village on the East Coast to see the conditions under which the residents are living, and to listen to their concerns and recommendations for improvements to their lives. As a brigadier and a former Chief of Staff of the GDF, the Prime Minister noted that he could have lived comfortably on his pension, but he wanted to see Guyana and all Guyanese progress, so he entered politics. “I got into politics because I feel that I can make a difference; and now that I’m Prime Minister, I’m ready to work with you, and with every community to make that difference,” the prime minister said.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

Strength in unity

THE progression of time has shown us that the collective voice and effort of people is far greater than any individual action, especially in the pursuit of development and/or change. There is great evidence of this throughout the history of Guyana, starting with the Demerara Rebellion in 1823, which built momentum for the ultimate abolition of slavery in 1838, to the country’s attainment of independence, which was pioneered by the late Presidents Dr. Cheddi Jagan and Forbes Burnham, and even further to the united stance by a section of the population against purported attempts by the APNU+AFC to rig the March 2, 2020 general and regional elections. Those few examples are testimony to the strength that is derived from the unification of people who have a common interest, belief, goal and vision. And while there is a national drive by the incumbent People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government to foster unity through its “One Guyana” initiative, which is the brainchild of President Dr. Irfaan Ali, the notion of oneness is one which is seemingly being embraced, even by leaders at the regional level, with Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states working closer to enhance

the work and strength of the bloc. CARICOM, being the oldest surviving integration movement in the developing world, has made significant strides in the areas of economic integration, foreign policy coordination, human and social development, and security. But the COVID-19 pandemic and other scourges have exposed the individual weaknesses of each member of the bloc, and has emphasised the need for there to be greater regional integration, and a collective push to create a seamless single market and economy. CARICOM Assistant Secretary-General, Trade and Economic Integration, Mr. Joseph Cox was quoted in the December 2021 issue of CARICOM Today as saying that the pandemic was not causing upheavals in health and social spheres alone, but was also having serious deleterious effects on economic life. He said that the pandemic was causing a re-ordering of processes, changing operational ethos and strategic pivoting at both the national and regional levels. Mr. Cox also alluded to the peculiar challenges such as supply-chain disruptions, high freight charges and inflation which were hampering progress within the region of small developing states.

This situation not only exposed the need for the region to pay close attention to existing trade barriers that restrict the enhancement of the regional supply chain, but also highlighted the importance of reducing the collective food-import bill which exceeds US$5 billion. Cognisant of the fact that those and other issues could only be addressed collectively, countries within CARICOM have already begun taking steps to enhance bilateral cooperation and, by extension, general cooperation at the level of the bloc. Specifically, to address the large food-import bill, the bloc has rolled out the ‘25 by 25’ initiative, which essentially aims to reduce the bill by 25 per cent by 2025. Guyana, with its President as the Head of the CARICOM Quasi-Cabinet with responsibility for Agriculture, Food Security and Agricultural Diversification, is expected to play a key role in tackling the food-import bill. The country, in keeping with its responsibility, partnered recently with the CARICOM Secretariat to host the inaugural Agri-Investment Forum and Expo at the Marriott Hotel. There, President Ali stressed that the time is now for CARICOM to correct the imbalance between consumption and production in the region.

The President was quoted by this publication as saying: “We cannot lose this momentum, as the region cannot continue the importation of billions of dollars in products that we can produce right here. The time is now; the will is there. Together, we have no other choice but to create a win for CARICOM under these challenging food-security times.” Prime Minister of Barbados Mia Mottley, as an extension to this, said that an improved supply chain, and the removal of trade barriers are pivotal to achieving this goal. Speaking at the launch of the forum, she said that there is need for an efficient supply chain that is safe and secure, and not necessarily one that is driven by imports. This, she believes, will make possible reduced costs of exporting among the CARICOM sister states. Other CARICOM leaders shared the views of President Ali and Prime Minister Mottley, but through all of this, it comes back to the need for collective effort and unity on matters that affect each member state. There is no doubt that once there is consensus and a united effort on matters of regional concern, issues that affect individual nations would become less challenging, and more manageable.

Addressing a wanton menu of factual and legal inaccuracies

Dear Editor,

ON June 29, 2022, in the Stabroek News, a letter to the Editor captioned, “Gov’t rejected sensible amendments to the Local Content Bill,” written by Mr. David Patterson, MP, was published. The letter contained a slew of factual and legal inaccuracies. My busy schedule prevented me from traversing this wanton menu of errors so boldly asserted. Mr. Patterson refused to acknowledge that only the night before the Local Content Bill was tabled in the National Assembly, the APNU+AFC submitted 14 proposed amendments to the Bill, of which 10 were accepted by the government, moved by the Minister of Natural Resources, the Honourable Vickram Bharrat, MP, and included in the Bill. This glaring omission was exacerbated by an accusation by Mr. Patterson that our government lacks inclusivity. I digress here momentarily to challenge Mr. Patterson to identify a single piece of legislation tabled in their five years of government in which the Opposition was allowed any input by way of amendments. Mr. Patterson took umbrage at the fact that in the Act, we did not confine Guyanese nationals to citizenry by birth. He is correct. This was among proposed amendments of theirs which we rejected. Mr. Patterson is obviously unaware that our supreme law defines

who is or is qualified to be registered as a citizen of Guyana. Any law which purports to restrict or is inconsistent with that definition will run afoul of the Constitution and shall be void to the extent of that inconsistency. Article 8 of the Constitution provides: “This Constitution is the supreme law of Guyana and, if any other law is inconsistent with it, that other law shall, to the extent of the inconsistency, be void.” More fundamentally, Article 149 of our Constitution prohibits discrimination. Article 149(1) of the Constitution provides, inter alia: “Subject to the provisions of this article – (a) no law shall make any provision that is discriminatory either of itself or in its effect; and (b) no person shall be treated in a discriminatory manner by any person acting by virtue of any written law or in the performance of the functions of any public office or any public authority.” In the circumstances, were we to adopt Mr. Patterson’s proposals, the Local Content Act would have been in violent tension and conflict with the Constitution. “The New immigration Policy” for which Mr. Patterson advocates would suffer a similar fate. Mr. Patterson also took umbrage at the speed with which Mr. Deepak Lall was “approved for citizenship.” Again, a lack of learning underlies this contention. By his heritage, Mr. Lall is a Guyanese citizen from

birth. He simply had to register that citizenship with the relevant authority. Article 44 of the Constitution provides: “A person born outside Guyana after the commencement of this Constitution shall become a citizen of Guyana at the date of his or her birth if at that date his or her father or his or her mother is a citizen of Guyana….” Mr. Patterson further admonishes us for not limiting the length of contracts within the sector to three years. It is a basic tenet and a fundamental building block of the English common law that parties, having full capacity, have the freedom to contract with whom they want and on whatever terms they choose. Though this freedom is not absolute, the exigencies of the petroleum industry should dictate the length of the contracts entered into by the licensees, contractors and sub-contractors. It is not a policy of our government to stifle freedom to contract by legislation. It is indeed policies of that type pursued by the coalition that placed them on the Opposition benches in the National Assembly. Mr. Patterson next criticizes the Act for not providing a right of appeal in respect of any application rejected. This was a conscious omission. The intent was to avoid administrative bureaucracy as far as possible, fully well recognising that a genuine challenge will eventually wind its way into

the judiciary. The drafter was alive to the provisions of the Judicial Review Act. Under section three of the Judicial Review Act, Cap. 3:06, any person who is adversely affected by an administrative act or omission of anybody which affects public law rights, obligations or expectations may apply to the court for judicial review. Further, under section 15 of the Act, a person adversely affected by an administrative decision may request reasons for that decision and must be provided with those reasons if that request was made within 14 days of the decision. Therefore, there was no need to burden the Local Content Act with such an unusual bureaucracy specifically dealt with by the Judicial Review Act. As fate would have it, this is the very Act on which the lawyers for the company relied in their request for reasons regarding the rejection of their application. As regards the allegations of violation with the Treaty of Chaguaramas, the government’s position was elaborately articulated for the public record. I consider it unnecessary to be repetitive. Yours faithfully, Mr. Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, MP, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs of Guyana

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

Strongest penalties, condemnation necessary for instigators of violence

Dear Editor,

ON June 28, 2022, the East Coast of Demerara corridor was tainted by sad, riotous and unjustified events that have elicited varying responses from significant stakeholders. President Dr Irfaan Ali and leaders of the government have immediately acted, engaging at the root level, while there has been the strongest condemnation from Guyanese at home and in the diaspora, various media, and observers. There have also been calls for transparency in the investigative process regarding the death of Quindon Bacchus, from which the agitation commenced. These aside, most disappointing is that we are forced to witness another callous, myopic display from the Opposition leaders and their patriots. Media reports suggest that the protest march that essentially spiralled out of control was the influence of a false report that the policeman allegedly involved in the death of Bacchus, was released on minimal bail. Although false, it was enough to fuel the already instigated notion of discord that violence was the only way to quell responses targeted at a public trial of the accused officer, against almost every legal procedural norm. The tacit no-objection and aggression-laden dialect used by Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton, David Hinds, et al, are irresponsible and designed to do more than prematurely support a protest of concern. Rather, these were uncovered intent to rile up the overspill and incense passions that would result in a destabilising social crisis. The highlights of Norton’s response to the mayhem caused by a majority of racial attacks on Indian vendors at the Mon Repos Market was his unqualified distinction that some police officers drank the drinks sold by vendors of a particular ethnic persuasion at Golden Grove. It did not matter to the so-called Opposition Leader that hundreds of innocent hard-working Indian people were attacked and beaten, and their properties destroyed, without these persons having anything to do with the alleged wrongful shooting of Bacchus. It also does not seem to matter that

our people of all popular nationalities have lived in harmony on this corridor for decades. The vicious attack on innocent hard-working citizens must be stopped. History confirms the characteristic violent behaviour of the PNC and the consistent advocacy of these perpetrators of violence for decades in Guyana. There is a clear indication of a renewed advocacy for the return of the infamous “Mo fire Slow fiah” touted by the late Desmond Hoyte in the late ’80s and early ’90s. That mostly Guyanese Indian vendors at the Mon Repos market unjustifiably were brutally beaten, robbed, and humiliated by persons who were sent to burn, thief, and brutalize them, establishes why the strongest intervention must be made to ensure none of our people face such tribulation and cruelty again. It does not take the most educated to rationalise that the clandestine strategy of these wicked instigators is to disrupt the fast-moving One-Guyana platform that has been a success story over the two years of President Ali’s leadership. Lest they forget the consequences, on July 01, 2020, the United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced that “he instructed the US State Department to have all those who seek to undermine Guyana’s democracy be held accountable for their actions.” Likewise, President Ali is expected to adopt assertive, but prudent measures to provide opportunities, while protecting our citizens according to the hilt of our laws. The People’s Progressive Party was in struggle for decades and on every occasion the party held government, the development progression to build a better Guyana was endowed. During these periods, it was not that there were no challenges. However, this kind of hooliganism and lawlessness was always avoided. No protest would have been allowed to take place without the basics in place. The organisers and leaders of the protest must identify themselves and all protesters must wear the required “peaceful” picketing hand bands. The placards must be appropriate and not libelous or instigating violence. The PPP/C is fully aware of the impact of protests, given their participation in

many during the years of struggle. In particular, having to deal with and condemn malpractices at GECOM with massive protests. Further, in the struggle after the December 2018 No-Confidence Motion, several massive but peaceful protests were organised. Another peaceful protest calling for the return of the ‘prestigious’ Carter Center to observe the 2020 Elections was also held. Unlike the previous Granger Government, President Ali must be commended for his immediate response to visiting all areas and effort to forge true working partnerships with all of our people, despite the deliberate ethnic-driven divisive approach of the opposition. I do not believe many anticipated that he would do this, and on both sides, his sincerity is recognised. My vivid memory recalls how meticulous our leaders were if it became necessary to protest. There was always objectivity in the decision of the location, and in ensuring that we have leaders responsible for our protesters. Never was there the clandestine design to attack and create mayhem against fellow countrymen and women, thereby realising civil strife. Organisers were quick to inform the police of our ‘route’ and our movements, and they were willing to give advice. Further, careful consideration and scrutiny stymied the efforts of villains and ‘lumpen’ with intentions to loot and steal from the stores. The fact is that the PPP is capable of mobilising and giving leadership to their supporters, while comparatively, the PNC depends on instigating violence and intimidation to get people to loot, thief, burn and create fear which must at all times be rejected Consequently, the police must assert themselves and do what is constitutionally legal to maintain monitoring control in these cases. Efficient intelligence would have informed about the plan to go on the ‘rampage,’ create havoc, and burn to make the PPP/C Government look bad in the eyes of the public at Quindon Bacchus’s funeral. My personal experience participating in, and organising a protest for decades reminds me of the role of the police who are tasked with monitoring such events. In this regard, the commissioner and commanding ranks have to be wary of

creating an effective balance, given that in reality, some police officers are immune to being supporters of wrongdoing. Although sworn to protect and serve, some are constitutionalists and will stand up to follow the law, while others are biased towards the government of the day, and alternatively, those who are corrupt and bent on working with the Opposition and wrongdoers. In 2020, my personal experience stands as testimony and reactions to related activities. I was arrested for leading a peaceful protest calling on the APNU/ AFC/PNC to allow the Carter Center to return and observe the 2020 elections recount. Opposition loyalist mercenaries in the police force threatened to lock me up over the weekend, while the PNC woman who was singing at the road corner to lock up Jagdeo and throw away the keys, gave instructions to lock me up. However, we were fully within our right to protest and it must be noted that after my case was dismissed, the known PNC policeman said that, at that time, they did what they had to do and by arresting me the picket line was stopped. Not so long after, Police Commander Mr Thomas was sent home and removed as commander for rightfully refusing to illegally carry out the dictates; of the PNC at the Ashmin’s building. These are all areas of correction we need to improve on, going forward. In the circumstances, one must recognise the genuine intent of the positive national programmes and not allow the carriers of false innuendos to use them to derail the positive programmes of the PPP/C that will swiftly realise a collective Guyana benefit on any unfounded basis for violent protest. It is not acceptable to change the rule of the game to suit the PNC’s political expediency. Our country has laws and they must be upheld to sustain a framework for all. Guyana is now a better place to live. Our country is on the rise and our democracy must be strengthened with the togetherness of all our people. The time is most opportune for our people to unite and stop all violence. Respectfully, Neil Kumar

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

Accuracy, accountability, responsibility are paramount

A LETTER published in this newspaper on May 23, 2022, by Roodi Balgobin, MBA, titled “Kaieteur News has a reputation of presenting preposterous claims as facts” caught my attention. I was moved by the following content: “Kaieteur News and others parading as environmentalists have been hammering on that because

of Guyana’s fledgling oil-and-gas industry, the commercial fishing industry is suffering. It would be remiss of me not to mention from the onset that Kaieteur News is known for its radical, unsubstantiated, and outright sensational reporting, just to sell copies.” Those strong words, released on the heels of World Press Freedom Day, presented an op-

portunity to comment without being ensnared into a one-sided position. While I believe that the above quote from the letter writer might be too harsh, I certainly think it is speaking to a larger concern. Most Guyanese depend on the dailies in the simplest of forms to understand what is going on with the oil-and-gas industry, and so, accuracy, accountability, and responsibility are of paramount importance. This might be the reason why the letter writer was not shy about his feelings. I noticed that for some time, the team at Kaieteur News (KN) believes that it has chosen an honourable path, calling out the sitting government on how it is managing Guyana’s treasured wealth, demonstrating an existential fight against a home-grown oil crisis. Of course, the KN team has a right to do so in the name of freedom of expression. United Nations (UN) Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, said that without journalists having the freedom to do their jobs, society faces the prospect of: “A world of confusion and disinformation.” Put differently, interference hampers quality reporting. I have no qualms with this declaration.

Notwithstanding some shilly-shally and mealymouthed reporting from the KN team on the most serious matter in Guyana, I must give it some credit among the motley crowd. An unknown number of Guyanese are listening, and certainly, the government has zoomed in since it has responded to some allegations from the KN team. That said, the letter also caught my attention precisely at a time when I was doing revisions on an article regarding Guyana’s oil-and-gas industry to be published in a reputable journal in July 2022. Naturally, I was scrabbling and scratching my head for information, which, I must admit, is rather limited. There is, as of writing, no grounded literature on Guyana’s fledgling oil-and-gas industry. What exists are short pieces and reports without in-depth analyses, which inadvertently then brought me to KN since it has appeared to be a consistent reporter on Guyana’s oil-and-gas industry. I realise, however, that consistency does not necessarily mean accuracy and accountability. I had to painfully comb through many short pieces of writings from the KN and match them with other writing pieces from

other dailies. It was a nightmare. I realise also that this is what researchers and writers do. Nevertheless, I found some reckless reporting in KN, bringing into question in the name of all that is good, why the newspaper team would engage in encomiums that are misguided and undeserved. I am not injecting personal views. I simply have my analyst cap on. There is, however, something cathartic about the team at KN speaking on Guyana’s natural resources that is refreshing. I appreciate the candor, which can be more appreciated if the reporting is based on facts and balance otherwise readers and listeners will not believe the malarkey, and that YouTube programme will turn into a snooze fest. I am sure the team is aware of the following idiom: “He who is of much bombast and boorishness will certainly experience a falling out with his erstwhile supporters.” I return to the letter to remind KN that “these ‘environmentalists’ are preying on the hard-working people of this country by presenting nonsense as facts.” (lomarsh.roopnarine@ jsums.edu)

Guyanese are better than this!

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

RECENTLY, there were a series of events that led to violence, mayhem, and chaos erupting along the East Coast of Demerara corridor. Firstly, the people were protesting what they saw as the police’s sloth in providing justice for the death of Quindon Bacchus. However, the situation took a turn for the worst with blocking of roads, burning tyres, and an enormous dose of fake news. It turned out that a report by online new outfit Daily News led residents to believe that Bacchus’ alleged killer was set free by the police. One would think that people would be much more trusting of the authorities and police to know better when handling such an emotive case. One soon found out that the protestors were not. They chose to listen to the Daily News outfit that turned out to be false, leading to pandemonium. This is, despite President Dr. Irfaan Ali telling them the report was false while pleading with them to come off the roads and allow the police to complete their investigation. The Head of State promised residents that they would get justice, but by that time, a whispering campaign of alleged racial discrimination was already set in motion allegedly by persons on the opposing side of the political spectrum. This was the case although both the accused and victim were Afro-Guyanese. The suspected action led to havoc and mayhem occurring along the East Coast Demerara corridor, where innocent Guyanese, mostly of Indian descent from Mon Repos, were robbed and beaten. Firstly, it is believed largely that the protest that started at Golden Grove along the East Coast of

Demerara was initially peaceful but mushroomed into an unlawful protest. Also, it is felt that the protesters had no right to block and disrupt the smooth traffic flow or burn tyres in public places. Like carrion crows, it is suspected that elements within the opposition used the opportunity to spread their political agenda against the PPP-Government. Secondly, Opposition Parliamentarian Sherod Duncan should be hauled against the coals for his behaviour throughout a public broadcast on his social media, during which a man is heard threatening to assassinate the President. Duncan, subsequent to the video, did not immediately seek to discipline the man or apologise to those viewing the broadcast live. His imprudence in public could be damaging to the coalition, so he should face the toughest sanction for this. Thirdly, it is disappointing not to see certain civil society groups, interest groups, and Non-Governmental Organisations condemn this protest which turned illegal, violent, and anything but peaceful. Where are their voices of condemnation? Where is the solidarity with the Guyana Police Force, even partially? Where is the widespread condemnation of the racists and political instigators?

So, one must assume it is alright to stay silent because the PPP administration is in power. Wrong is wrong! Right is right! Fourthly, now that tensions and emotions seem to have quieted down, the authorities should focus their energies on building trust and confidence in the Guyana Police Force. President Ali and his ministers must carefully relook at the police force’s handling of the East Coast Demerara unrests to stop any recurrence in the future. The President has to mandate that justice is not only done but is seen to be done by all parties concerned. He must be aware that the opposition is seemingly thirsty for the Guyana Police Force to fail in their bid to serve and protect Guyanese of all racial and political backgrounds. He must not let them succeed in their quest to make Guyana ungovernable and regress. Finally, Guyanese are way better than this! Guyanese have always been able to show unity and oneness when it matters.

The path to realizing the dream of ‘One Guyana’ may have gotten a bit harder, but Guyana will

rise to the occasion. Guyanese can and must resist the attempt to sow seeds of disharmony, political and

racial divisions. The time is now for all of Guyana to stand up in unity as one.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

Understanding Energy

Guyana finalises gas-to-shore project agreement EARLIER this week, the government finalised the long-awaited agreement for the gas-to-shore project, a major priority for the Dr. Irfaan Ali administration for the past two years. The government has touted this project as a win for the country and the people that will lower costs for Guyanese, make local companies more competitive and reduce pollution. While outlining the details and benefits of the gas-to-shore project at a press conference, President Ali called the project “transformational” and highlighted the key messages for Guyanese: 1. As a joint project between ExxonMobil and the government, the plan is to focus on efficiency, transparency and delivering the project on time. 2. Pre-qualification was a public process, with nine companies short-listed. The pre-qualified firms were issued with a request for proposals and the deadline for submission is September 2022. 3. This weekend an advertisement will be launched to select an independent and unbiased project management firm to supervise and overview the contract. 4. All environmental tests have been passed, including public scrutiny, which is a transparent comment process. 5. The estimated cost of the electricity produced should be approximately 4.5 cents per kilowatt, one fourth of what Guyanese pay now. That includes paying for the pipeline, the power plant, gas processing facilities, and operational costs. “Let me be very clear, this was no walk in the park…but don’t doubt our own capability and the technical capabilities that we brought to this [project]. The partners went to the table looking to derive the best possible output for all the stakeholders,” President Ali said. This project will bring approximately 120 million cubic feet per day of natural gas from the Stabroek Block onshore to be processed and used in a multitude of ways that will benefit burgeoning sectors and communities. According to analysts at JB Associates, between savings on fuel imports, the reduction in energy cost, and savings for the manufacturing sector, Guyanese households and the government could save upwards of US$3 billion in the first

five years of the project coming online. Additionally, ExxonMobil is set to recover the costs of the pipeline over decades of oil production rather than having the government borrow on international markets or spend taxpayer money that could be better spent investing in the local economy and people. As President Ali noted, the electricity costs are predicted to fall by more than 50 per cent with additional gas left over for industrial uses and other sectors. Bringing the plant online will be a crucial part of meeting the rapidly growing demand for electricity as Guyana’s economy develops. Demand in Guyana is expected to triple in the next five years as the economy continues its fast-paced growth. Gas will provide a vital bridge while longer-term plans for hydropower and solar come to fruition and remain a key source of clean reliable power for decades. On the environmental side, numerous studies have been conducted to ensure transparency in the process and that pollution risks are mitigated. It allows for a deeper importance by the government to be placed on reducing emissions and smog. The use of natural gas cuts planet-warming CO2 emissions by more than 50 per cent and reduces lung-damaging particulate emissions by more than 98 per cent. As the government pushes to diversify the economy with the capital from the energy sector, it will make Guyana more competitive across the board, in both the region and globally. Growth in energy intensive industries such as agriculture and manufacturing is now possible with the gas-to-shore project, especially considering power costs are one of the biggest handicaps for Guyana’s economy. Beyond economics, gas-to-power is a critical step towards a more independent and stronger Guyana, helping to end the reliance on imported fuel oil, making companies more competitive, and fostering new industries that could finally produce more products here at home. ExxonMobil and the government expect procurement to be concluded by the end of this year, paving a path for the electric grid and the economy to look very different in just a few years.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

The role of Atrefan in Malaria treatment MALARIA is a treatable endemic disease prevalent in the tropics and subtropics, graphically positioned around the equatorial zone such as countries in the region of Africa, Central and South America, Dominican Republic and Haiti. Although a curable disease condition, there still remains a challenge in access to timely accurate treatment resulting in fatalities, recurrent and resistant forms of malaria for countries with economic constraints and resistant parasites. According to WHO (World Health Organization) from the 219 million malarial cases in 2017, the African region contributed to 92 per cent of those cases. Guyana contributes to a mere three per cent of the current total global incidences which quantify to about 20,000 cases annually. In a 2016 local publication, it was established that the national index spiked over the past three decades due to movement of the mining populations in southern Guyana, from the Rupununi to Cuyuni/ Mazaruni/ Potaro, in the north western region of Guyana. Currently five out of the ten administrative regions in the hinterland are affected. The female anopheles mosquitos are responsible carriers for the malarial parasite, which thrive in hot humid conditions. Generally temperature, humidity and rainfall are the three climatic conditions, which create a good breathing ground for all types of mosquitos, as can be noticed with the current record rainfall we have been experiencing in Guyana, more pronounced in Regions Three, Seven, Eight and10. Infected humans are also transmitters for the malarial parasite, so impregnated mosquito nets and mosquito repellants are key methods of prevention. Two species of the malarial parasite identified are the plasmodium vivax, mostly occurring in ambient or cooler climatic conditions, and the plasmodium falciparum found in warmer conditions. Both p. falciparum and p. vivax are present in Guyana, where the former is more pronounced due to our higher climatic temperature. Sometimes persons can have mixed infections due to the invasion of both causative agents. The gold standard diagnostic confirmatory test is the blood smear but since time is a key success factor for treatment rapid diagnostic tests are used if available. The thick blood smear is differentiated from the thin blood smear where the former is used for detecting the presence of the parasite, whilst the latter details the causative species or the type of malaria. A PCR test may be considered only if such resources are immediately accessible. The four screening considerations before the initiation of treatment are identifying the type of malarial parasite, establishing the severity of the symptoms, the age of the patient and the pregnancy status, if it is a female

patient. The National Treatment Guidelines of Guyana incorporates four main anti-malarial drugs in its treatment protocols for uncomplicated malaria namely chloroquine, artemether/lumefantrine, primaquin and quinine. However, it must be noted that a high global resistance is seen with chloroquine. Artefan, is one of the branded antimalarial two-in-one drug, containing 20mg artemether and 120mg lumefantrine. It is prescribed only for selected categories of patients in the treatment of uncomplicated malaria. These categories indicated for Artefan use are in P. falciparum infected children, adults or late stage pregnant mothers (second and third trimester), in conjunction with other medications. Additionally, it can also be used in mixed infections in various grouping such as falciparum plus vivax, falciparum plus malariae and falciparum plus vivax plus malariae. Artefan has a rapid absorption, where the peak plasma concentration is two hours after administration, in the bioavailable form or artemether as DHA (dihydroartemisinin), having been through first pass metabolism. The dosage of Artefan depends on the age of the patient and the body weight. The minimum dosage for uncomplicated p. falciparum in a child three years of age is a total of six tablets to be used in the course of treatment over a three day period. For a child with body weight between 5kg to 15kg one tablet immediately after diagnosis followed by the second dose eight hours after then subsequently four doses 12 hours apart. As the weight of the patient increases so does the dose; so between 15kg to 25kg the dosage will be two tablets at the same interval, between 25kg to 35kg the dosage is three tablets at the same interval and above 12 years of age or an adult dosage is four tablets at the same interval. So the total course for an adult is 24 tablets to be taken over the three-day period, which explains the way it is packaged. A single dose of primaquin, where the dose also varies with age and body weight, is used in conjunction with the Artefan. So a minimum of half tablet for a six-month-old baby to a maximum of three tablets for adults with more than 50kg. Note that Artefan is not listed in the National Treatment Guidelines for uncomplicated p. vivax nor p. malariae but is recommended in mixed infections where p. falciparum is present. It is also safe for use in the second and third trimester in pregnancy, if the benefits outweigh the risks. Apart from hypersensitivity reactions such as allergies to any of the active or inactive ingredient, there are certain pre-existing conditions about which you are advised to inform the medical practitioner before treatment with this drug is decided upon. These conditions are abnormal ECG

readings, hypokalemia (low potassium in the blood), bradycardia (slow heart rate), heart failure or arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythm). Or if you are on medications like diuretics (water pills) which have the ability to cause hypokalaemia or other heart medications to affect the heart rate like beta blockers (atenolol, metoprolol and propranolol) and antiarrhythmic drugs,

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

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

Region Three: The new hub ... From page 2

can connect them with,” Khan said. He related that given the region’s proximity to Georgetown, and given the congestion developing

in Region Four, as developers and the government alike look to new areas to decentralise, Region Three is where everyone is turning to.

“We know that Region Four, for a very long time, things have been centralised there, but because of that you find that it has been overcrowded now in

Region Four. So, with the new bridge opening up access here, you will find that even a lot of industrial areas will be opening up,” Khan said.

Massive lands in the region are expected to become available for even greater development, especially with the Schoonord to Parika superhigh-

Deputy President of the CIOG, Gulzar Namdar

Construction moving apace on the $1 billion state-of-the-art mall at Leonora, West Coast Demerara (Delano Williams photo) way and the Schoonord to Crane highway that are expected to be built soon in the region. President of the Meten-Meer -Zorg Islamic Complex, Gulzar Namdar, said those projects will not only attract outsiders, but also serve as an impetus for persons within the region. “[The] West Coast of Demerara is growing tremendously. If a person comes back from overseas after a while, they might not even recognise the village they are from, because of the vast improvements and developments. Especially with the housing projects,” Namdar said. He added: “The amount of housing areas that have been opened up here is tremendous, and it is because of that a lot of activities and businesses that have been opened up. Now people do not have to go to Georgetown to get anything. They can get everything right here on the West Demerara. And it is very safe,” Namdar, who is also the administrator for the Meten-Meer-Zorg Academy, also believes that the development will help with the alleviation of depressed communities. “[The] West Coast of Demerara has some villages like Zeelugt, and the Tuschen new housing

scheme and Plastic City, where more is needed. But there are many options now that are going to be coming to them. And we hope that they will take the opportunities to better their lives of themselves and their families,” he said Another local leader, Pandit Parmeshwar Haimraj, better known in the community as Pandit Sundar, said he too sees the development in the region as being about more than just big business, but sees it for what it will mean for the residents in the region. “It means that life is becoming easier. As residents of this area we have to take advantage of the development and opportunities that are there. We also have to prepare our children because in the next five or 10 years we will be having so many things going on,” he said. Haimraj added: “The development in Region Three is really decentralising [business services]. So many things can be done in Region Three that one does not have to go into the city to get done. Even persons come from Bartica and the other islands can get so much done right in Region Three. “I moved to the West Coast 12 years back, and in terms of the infrastructure we’ve really advanced. If you look at the development of the public road… we see so many huge buildings and businesses. And seeing increased competition, which means that many of options are available and costs [will] come down,”

100 Sophia residents benefit from business grants

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

SOME 100 residents of Sophia, Greater Georgetown, on Saturday benefitted from the government’s $250,000 business-grant initiative. This is a part of the government’s manifesto promise to ensure that Guyanese from across the country have access to business opportunities. The grants were disbursed at the Sophia Exhibition Centre, and was spearheaded by the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development (MLGRD). The money will enable residents to start or expand their businesses. The exercise was led by Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall; Minister of Tourism, Indus-

Minister Walrond assured residents that the government will continue to support their business ventures. She noted that the PPP/C administration is a “caring government” and the grant is one such initiative undertaken to equally assist citizens. “With the business grant,

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall try and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond and Minister within the Office of the Prime

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy, speaking with residents of Sophia

Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy. Speaking to persons who were awarded the grants, Minister Dharamlall noted that this initiative shows the government’s commitment to ensuring that citizens have access to funds and opportunities to upscale their lives. “You have to have ambition to spend this money and don’t look at the amount, but look at what it can do, and so we hope that you are going to put it to good use,” he said. He also said persons starting or expanding their businesses should employ people from their community, to ensure that citizens have opportunities to earn livelihoods and at the same time contribute to the country’s development.

we want to help you grow, and this will not be just a one-off, hand-you the money, this will be a constant support for you, and for your community, and for your families,” Minister Walrond said. Meanwhile, Minister McCoy noted that targeted train-

ing opportunities will soon be made available to Sophia residents. These will include techniques and principles of establishing, sustaining and growing their small businesses. He further said the government will continue to See page 14

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

100 Sophia residents benefit from ... From page 13

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond heavily invest in its human resources. “Our intention is that we will work with you to enable you to grow, to empower you, to make you move from one stage to the other, upwards and to move so progressively over the next few

years,” Minister McCoy said. The beneficiaries were happy for the grant and expressed their gratitude to the government. Punkey Vishwanauth said: “I feel great, it [will] help me because like only couple days ago I was think-

ing about starting a business, but wondering who am I [going to] ask for a help, and then a get a call saying that I’m here to receive a grant to help me open a business, so I’m really thankful for it.” Another beneficiary, Floyd Jackson noted: “It’s a good initiative and I [want to] say thanks to the government, and to all those who have played a part in making this initiative successful.” Shemera Kadan said: “I feel really happy about it, it’s a great initiative and it could help me a great lot to start a business.” During the disbursement exercise, residents were given the opportunity to raise their concerns which included deteriorated streets, and the need for street lights and proper drainage systems. The government has already distributed approximately 12, 000 business grants to citizens across the country. (DPI)

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

Guyana to expand base in CARICOM private sector organisation –– as GOGEC mulls becoming a member of the regional body

THE Guyanese business community is set to benefit from a wider range of opportunities in the Caribbean as the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC) has agreed to join the CARICOM Private Sector Organisation. President of GOGEC, Manniram Prashad, said that the chamber is seeking to maintain its position as

key player in the oil-andgas sector in Guyana. Dr. Antoine further elaborated that the CPSO is currently engaged in a membership outreach and onboarding programme, and acknowledged the recent decision of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry to join the CPSO. He said too that the Private Sector Organisation

align itself with the CPSO through membership. To this end, GOGEC will review the aims and objectives of the CPSO to identify synergies and possible areas of convergence. The meeting ended with a pledge by the two sides to collaborate going forward in order to better position the private sector in the task of regional integration.

From left: CPSO Adviser, Neville Bissember; CPSO Technical Director, Dr. Patrick Antoine; GOGEC President, Manniram Prashad, and GOGEC Representative, Desmond Sears a key player in the oil-andgas sector in Guyana. According to a GOGEC release, Prashad met with the Technical Director of the CARICOM Private Sector Organisation (CPSO), Dr. Patrick Antoine, on Friday. During the engagement, Prashad said he expressed a keen interest in GOGEC becoming a member of the CPSO. The release disclosed that the representatives of the two private sector organisations held exploratory discussions at the Georgetown Office of GOGEC on the role of the private sector in the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). They used the opportunity to exchange information on both institutions, recalling their historical antecedents and the respective mandates of the CPSO and GOGEC. Dr. Antoine spoke of the unique position the CPSO holds as an Associate Institution of the CARICOM Community, while Mr. Prashad related that GOGEC is seeking to maintain its position as a

of Jamaica (PSOJ) and the Barbados Manufacturers’ Association (BMA) are now members of the CPSO. Both sides acknowledged the critical partnership that is necessary between the Member States of CARICOM and their respective private sectors, to advance the vision for the CSME, as articulated by the Prime Minister of Barbados and Lead Head with Responsibility for the CSME in the CARICOM Quasi Cabinet, Mia Mottley. In this regard, Dr. Antoine noted the importance of regular dialogue between the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM, the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED), and the CPSO, particularly in areas such as achieving regional food security and industrial development, as well as in addressing subject areas such as Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) and Front of Package Labelling (FOPL). Prashad supported this position and said that it was in the interest of GOGEC to

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

Police uncover 116 pounds of suspected cannabis at Abary house –– 23-year-old suspect in custody

A 23-year-old man was on Saturday arrested after police uncovered 52,617 grams (116 pounds) of suspected cannabis during an intelligence-led operation at Abary, Region Five. According to information from the Guyana Police Force (GPF), ranks of Regional Division #5 at 12:00hrs, acted on information received and visited an area on the left bank of the Abary River, some 40 miles from the public road. On arrival at the area, the ranks saw a two-storey wooden and concrete house on a plot of land. At the property, the ranks met a 23-year-old labourer from Tempe Village, West Coast Berbice. A search of the house was subsequently conducted and four salt bags were found in a room in the

The 52,617 grams of suspected cannabis that was seized during an operation at Abary, Region Five lower flat. The bags were checked and were found to contain 31 wrapped parcels, all containing leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis. The labourer was told of the offence, arrested and cautioned. He said the place belongs to ‘Jah Jah’ and that he is just the caretaker. The labourer and the suspected cannabis were escorted to Weldaad Police Station, where the suspected cannabis was weighed and amounted to 52,617 grams. The police noted that a search is underway for the owner of the house, as an investigation continues into the matter.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

Florida-based health worker with Guyanese roots publishes first book

MARICA Daniels, a Florida-based health worker with Guyanese roots, has published a book titled “Don’t be afraid,” with the intention of education women on pregnancy, labour and post-labour. The book which is sub-titled, “Pregnancy can be scary, it doesn’t have to be,” was published in December 2021, but Daniels believes that its relevance will never grow old. The 27-year-old was inspired to write her book after realising how unprepared mothers were for pregnancy and everything that follows. Reflecting on her four years as a registered nurse in Florida, Daniels told the Sunday Chronicle: “When they [mothers] got to me in a hospital setting, they were terrified and when they are scared, the fear… I saw it lead to outcomes that they didn’t necessarily want.” She related that while working in the hospital, mothers did not have a voice and it bothered her. “I’m all about autonomy and people being able to make decisions for themselves. So, if a mom doesn’t know from a medical standpoint what is going on, she can’t say yes, I want to change that or no, I don’t want to do this. So, I was like, okay, how can I help with the situation?” Daniels related. Initially, she had the idea of creating a training programme for residents but felt like her voice wasn’t heard on that level. So, she decided to create something to educate mothers. Inspired by what was going on around her, she wrote the majority of the book in 2020 and then took a break because she felt like she was not ready to finish writing it. She said that in 2021, things started happening at her place of work which then opened her eyes more and so she decided to finish the book. She then published the book through Amazon. The book entails guiding mothers or persons planning a family through the process from start to finish, with the start being when they find out that they are pregnant. It tells women what their options are, and what is happening to their bodies. In the book, she goes through every detail when it comes to figuring out if

the woman would want a midwife, doctor, or doula. The doula targets some of the emotional and mental aspects such as any confusion during the delivery process.

DOULA DANIELS “Because I’m a registered nurse and I used to do labour delivery, I walk them through the entire process depending on where they’re delivering at. So, if they’re having a hospital birth, if they’re having a home birth, if they’re having a birthing centre birth, I go through the changes that are happening to their body from a medical standpoint so that they know what to expect during each stage of labour,” Daniels said. In the book, she writes about pain medication that mothers would not receive from the hospital. She also outlines how it is to be administered and at what point during labour it would be safe for mothers and babies to receive it. Daniels is also very big on mental health advocacy and writes about this in her book. “There’s a section [in the book] that will walk the mom through what to expect from a mental health point after the baby because that can be the toughest time in terms of dealing with postpartum depression or transitioning to life with baby or life with multiple children. It’s basically a ‘what to expect’ in detail,” she related. Daniels said that her readers were moved by the book. “They feel like it was very educational, it opened their eyes to see what their options were. They felt like it was a very useful tool and were recommending it to their friends and family. I got a lot of good reviews on it,” the health worker said. Daniels left her job at the hospital in Florida in September 2021 and she is now a full-time doula. “I’m a support person for women during their pregnancies,” she said. She related that traditionally, birth doulas are not medically trained and are only trained in labour and on support mechanisms such as how to help the mother emotionally and physically during child birth.

“So, for me, given that I have the medical background, I’m able to tell the mom and help her make decisions that a traditional doula wouldn’t. Usually, I’m either educating them through their pregnancy so they’ll have full access to asking questions, or during the birth process. “I’ll go to the actual hospital or wherever they’re

delivering and I’ll just be an advocate for them in that setting. Then, after the birth, I usually visit them at home to see how they are transitioning,” Daniels said. She said that she was excited to publish the book because she felt as though it was her underlying purpose. “My underlying purpose for me is just to impact the world and I know in moth-

erhood, that’s something that’s that never-ending. There’s always going to be a need for education in that subject, so I felt excited. I felt much fulfilled as if I was fulfilling a commitment that I had made to myself,” Daniels said. She is currently working on the printed manuscript of her book as it was only published online.

Marica Daniels

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

Algae offers Indigenous fishers new prospects in Panama

(FAO) ON the edge of the Caribbean Sea is an autonomous, Indigenous Peoples’ territory in Panama which has been inhabited by the Guna people for centuries. It winds its way around the gulf of the same name and includes an archipelago of around 300 islands. Within this territory is Naranjo Grande, a coastal town where the sea represents food, work and life itself. This is where Luisa Lopez Hurtado has lived all her life. A member of the Guna Indigenous People, she has fished with her family off of Panama’s eastern coast for as long as she can remember. “I grew up by the sea,” says Luisa, a mother of four sons. “When I was young, I accompanied my father on his fishing trips.” For generations the Guna people have relied on marine and coastal resources for their lives and livelihoods.

But Luisa, who heads the Naranjo Grande women’s association, says it’s becoming harder for fishers to make a living as local stocks of fish and lobster have been impacted by overfishing and climate change. “Fish production is different from when I was a child. There is not as much fish as there used to be, and it is increasingly difficult to find lobsters, which were plentiful in the past,” she says. Maria Dickson, a 24-year-old member of Luisa’s women’s group, confirms this. “Production has decreased drastically,” Maria says. “Sometimes I think they catch them too small and that is why they can’t reproduce.” Women play a significant role in the Guna community with many engaged in cleaning and processing fish, as well as working in agriculture, tourism and handicraft

The Indigenous women learned how to sun-dry the algae and extract agar, a jelly-like substance, from its walls to make soaps and cosmetics (FAO/ Vanessa Olarte) production. But they are often dependent on men for their income. The drastic fall in tourism since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic com-

bined with declining fish stocks have had a devastating impact, pushing many families, especially women-led households, into poverty. The FAO is now opening new opportunities for the Guna people by sharing skills related to algae production and processing. A new training initiative for coastal Indigenous fishers, particularly women, gives them livelihood options from a different source. Backed by the Panamanian Administration of Aquatic Resources (ARAP) and the territory’s Indigenous government, the FAO pilot programme works with 20 women and five men sharing knowledge on how to grow,

harvest and process marine algae before transforming it into commercial soaps and creams. Alejandro Flores, FAO’s senior regional fisheries and aquaculture officer for Latin America and the Caribbean, says it is about increasing the resilience and independence of Guna women. “We were looking to work with an Indigenous women’s organization to contribute to their economic empowerment,” says Flores. After consultations with the Naranjo Grande association, FAO and ARAP approached Gracilarias de Panama, a private firm that See page 20

Child succumbs after stung by scorpion at Wakapoa

A SIX-YEAR-OLD of Wakapoa Lower Pomeroon River, Region Two, has died after being stung by a scorpion on Thursday. According to information, Jeff Boyan, the youngest of five siblings, died as a result of the sting despite being inspected at multiple health facilities. The child’s mother, Jeniffer Richards, said that, when her son was stung by the scorpion, her first response was to call the doctor at the Wakapoa Health Centre. But after explaining what had occurred, Richards said the doctor advised her to

observe the child’s condition. Following the doctor’s advice, the mother monitored her son’s condition, but things took a turn for the worst when the child’s body started “getting stiff.” Alarmed by what was happening, the child’s parents took him to the health centre, where they were further advised to take the boy to the health facility at Charity. Upon arrival at the Charity health facility, the child was examined by doctors and then transferred to the Suddie Hospital, where he was pro-

Six-year-old Jeff Boyan nounced dead on arrival. The child’s body is at the Suddie Funeral home awaiting a post-mortem examination.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

Algae offers Indigenous ... From page 19

specialises in the sustainable cultivation and export of marine algae. The company agreed to train the group on a probono basis and to buy their products. While Gracilarias helped build the capacity of the Guna women in cultivating marine algae, FAO worked with the women on the creation and administration of a rotational fund and helped them organise a cooperative for selling their produce. Participants planted the initial green algae in November 2021 and the first harvest took place in February 2022. They sundried the algae and learned how to extract agar, a jelly-like substance, from the walls of the algae to make soaps and cosmetics. Flores says eventually the intention of the fund, set up from the profits of these economic activities, is to finance other projects and support families during

emergencies. “It’s in the early days, but they have made important progress,” says Flores. “They’ve already harvested twice. They feel a lot more empowered now and have contributed more to their families so they can be more autonomous.” Maria says she’s already thrilled with the new skills she has learned. “I never imagined that algae could be cultivated; that was a surprise,” she says. “I can’t wait for us to be able to make products and sell them locally and to tourists. That will be a great help to our economy, and I am sure there will be positive changes in the community.” Gracilarias regards the initiative as a success and a model not only for communities of women in Panama but for the entire region. Apart from those who participated, another 150 members of the Guna community hope to take part in

the project in the future. Beyond the production of soaps and creams, Gracilarias says it hopes to eventually work with the Guna Indigenous women on the commercialisation of dried seaweed and using seaweed planting areas as ecotourism centres to cater to local and foreign visitors. The project coincides with the International Year of Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture (IYAFA 2022) which highlights the critical role of small-scale fishers and fish workers and their contribution to lives and livelihoods. By recognising the value of the work of small-scale artisanal fishers, fish farmers and fish workers, FAO is looking to create a world where they are empowered to enhance their contribution to human well-being, healthy food systems and poverty eradication through the responsible and sustainable use of marine and natural resources.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

Taylor throws support behind new skipper Hayley Matthews WEST Indies Women all-rounder and former captain Stafanie Taylor has thrown her support behind new captain Hayley Matthews in an Instagram post yesterday. Matthews was named as the new West Indies Women captain last week, taking over from Taylor who led the team since 2015, winning the Women’s T20 World Cup a year later in India. “I want to say congratulations to Hayley, an amazing player and person that I have watched grow and improve through the years,” Taylor said in the post. “I know you will do great in this new role. I have enjoyed playing with you and learning from you over the years and look forward to

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continued teamwork under your leadership,” she added. Taylor, who also led the team to semifinal berths in the 2018 World T20 and the 2022 World Cup, reflected on her time as leader. “I am grateful for the opportunity I have had to lead this incredible team and all that we have accomplished together. It has been seven years of learning and navigating the uncertainties of the game. I’m thankful for the support I have received from my teammates and the management staff throughout my tenure as captain. They who have been encouraging and eager to help in carrying out my duties,” she said. (Sportsmax)

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Wimbledon tennis ... NICK Kyrgios and his unique brand of mayhem marched into the fourth round of Wimbledon at the expense of a dazed and confused Stefanos Tsitsipas. Fourth seed Tsitsipas had taken the first set but around an hour later was on the brink of a meltdown, driven to distraction by the latest antics from the enfant terrible of tennis. A 6-7(2), 6-4, 6-3, 7-6(7) victory for the world number 40 from Australia does not tell a fraction of the story of a stormy match. At one point Kyrgios even demanded his opponent be defaulted after hitting a ball into the crowd, narrowly missing a spectator. It was the first marquee match at this year’s Championships but at times it bore more resemblance to a threering circus. “Honestly it was a hell of an atmosphere and an amaz-

Kyrgios show goes on as he beats Tsitsipas in chaotic thriller

ing match,” said Kyrgios. “I felt like I was the favourite coming in. I had my tactics. It was a hell of a match. “He was getting frustrated at times, but it’s a frustrating sport. Whatever happens on the court, I love him.” A chaotic encounter began in relative calm with Kyrgios putting in a near flawless display of serving – including an under-armer between the legs – in the first set. Kyrgios had dropped just four points behind his serve, only to lose his way in the tie-break as Tsitsipas edged ahead. However, in-between time Kyrgios demanded a new line judge following one bad call and complained to spectators about another official before serving, at one point prompting Tsitsipas to walk back to his towel amid pantomime boos from the crowd.

Salah signs new threeyear Liverpool contract MOHAMED Salah has signed a new three-year contract with Liverpool. BBC Sport understands the deal - worth more than £350 000-a-week makes the 30-year-old the highest paid player in the club’s history. The Egypt forward only had a year left on his previous deal and there had been doubts about whether he would stay. “It’s the best decision for us and best decision for him. He belongs with us I think. This is his club now,” said Reds boss Jurgen Klopp. “This is a special treat for our supporters to enjoy their weekend even more. I’m sure there will be some celebrations for this news tonight.” Salah has scored 156 goals in 254 appearances during his five years at Anfield since moving from Roma. The wide player said: “I feel great and I am ex-

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

Egypt and Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah cited to win trophies with the club. It’s a happy day for everyone. We are in a good position to fight for everything.” Salah has won the Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup, FIFA Club World Cup and UEFA Super Cup during his time at Anfield. He has also won or shared three Premier League Golden Boots and been named the PFA player-of-the-year twice while with Klopp’s side. (BBC Sport)

Nick Kyrgios marches into Wimbledon fourth round But it was all more PG than X-rated at this stage, and some of the tennis both men were playing was breathtaking. At 4-4 two poor Kyrgios drop shots gave Tsitsipas a rare chance to break, but a second serve ace quickly

snuffed it out. The next game summed Kyrgios up to a tee; a code violation for swearing followed by a stunning winner from a Tsitsipas overhead, to take the second set. The sublime immediately returned to the utterly

ridiculous, Tsitsipas angrily hitting a ball into the stands to earn a warning of his own, and Kyrgios insisting he be defaulted. While Kyrgios argued with all and sundry, Tsitsipas took a bathroom break, came back out and complained about the positioning of the towels. When the tennis did eventually resume Kyrgios broke for 3-1 with a zinger of a forehand winner. Tsitsipas lost his head completely when Kyrgios held with another underarm serve, lashing out at the ball to earn a point deduction. As Tsitsipas complained bitterly to the umpire, Kyrgios stood on the baseline,

almost whistling innocently as if butter would not melt. Moments later he was bowing to the crowd after landing a drop shot on top of the net, before it fell on Tsitsipas’ side to help clinch the third set and sum up the Greek’s luck. With the clock ticking towards 21:00hrs, the roof was closed, and when hostilities resumed Kyrgios crashed down an ace, to take the fourth set to another tiebreak. It was a scintillating climax finished by a drop shot, a wild celebration and confirmation that the Kyrgios roadshow will rumble into the second week. (PA Sport)

Australia storm to victory after Head, Lyon spin a web

AUSTRALIA’S spinners have bowled them to the verge of consecutive Test series wins abroad for the first time in 14 years after Sri Lanka fell in a heap on the third morning of their series-opener in Galle. On a treacherous Galle pitch that made part-time off-spinner Travis Head (4-10) look like Muttiah Muralitharan, the Aussies surged to victory chiefly on the efforts of Nathan Lyon, who claimed nine wickets for the match. In a sign of the volatile nature of the rapidly deteriorating surface, Head had two top-order victims in his first five balls and clean-bowled Dinesh Chandimal and Jeffrey Vandersay with near unplayable off-breaks in a remarkable spell. Without a wicket to his name coming into this match, Head ended up with four in 17 balls and was applauded off the field by the Australians after they routed Sri Lanka for 113 in just 22.5 overs. David Warner then knocked off the five runs required to win with a four and a six to clinch the 10-wicket win before lunch. It was Australia’s second fastest Test win since 1946, with the entire match lasting just 920 balls. Sri Lanka, whose cause was not aided by the absence of their most accomplished batter Angelo Mathews, who tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday, lost their last eight wickets for 54 in just 70 deliveries. Following their series-sealing victory over Pakistan in Lahore earlier this year, Australia’s win at the beachside city on the island’s south coast has handed them their first successive Test victories in Asia since they knocked off Bangladesh twice in 2006. A win in Galle again next week will mark consecutive away Test series wins for the first time since 2008. The visitors took a 109-run first-innings lead after paceman Asitha Fernando snared the remaining two Australian wickets in quick time on Friday morning, though the Aussies swiftly squandered a third of that advantage through just five overs to begin Sri Lanka’s second innings.

But, following on from his first-innings return of 5-90, Lyon soon looked like taking a wicket with every ball as he snared 4-31 and bowled unchanged from the city end. If skipper Pat Cummins needed any convincing that pace was about as effective on this surface as an umbrella in a hurricane, Mitchell Starc’s 17-run first over might have done it. Cummins did not even need to bowl himself as his slow bowlers ran rampant. Lyon commenced the carnage, courtesy of a sharp catch from Alex Carey off a Dimuth Karunaratne bottom edge, with the off-spinner adding the scalps of both Mendises (Kusal and Ramesh) and Niroshan Dickwella. Mitch Swepson (2-34) took his match wicket tally to five as he dismissed Pathum Nissanka and Mathews’ substitute Oshada Fernando. The sweep and reverse-sweep shots, so expertly played by the tourists in their first-innings haul of 321, proved more perilous for the Sri Lankans, with Nissanka, the two Mendises, and Dickwella all out to the stroke. (Cricket. com .au)

SCOREBOARD SRI LANKA 1st innings 212 AUSTRALIA 1st innings 321 SRI LANKA 2nd innings Pathum Nissanka lbw Mitchell Swepson 14 Dimuth Karunaratne c Alex Carey b Nathan Lyon 23 Kusal Mendis c Mitchell Swepson b Nathan Lyon 8 Oshada Fernando c Steven Smith b Mitchell Swepson 12 Dhananjaya de Silva lbw Travis Head 11 Dinesh Chandimal b Travis Head 13 Niroshan Dickwella c Marnus Labuschagne b Nathan Lyon 3 Ramesh Mendis c Usman Khawaja b Nathan Lyon 0 Jeffrey Vandersay b Travis Head 8 Lasith Embuldeniya lbw Travis Head 0 Asitha Fernando not out 5 Extras: (b-10, lb-5, nb-1) 16 Total; (all out, 22.5 overs) 113 Fall of wickets: 1-37, 2-39, 3-59, 4-63, 5-95, 6-96, 7-97, 8-108, 9-108. Bowling: Mitchell Starc 2-0-23-0, Nathan Lyon 11-1-31-4, Mitchell Swepson 7-0-34-2 (nb-1), Travis Head 2.5-0-10-4.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

Qatar World Cup to use semi-automated offside technology

F I FA h a s c o n f i r m e d semi-automated, state-ofthe-art technology will be used at the World Cup in Qatar to speed up the time taken to reach offside decisions. In addition to a sensor in the middle of the ball, which sends data 500 times a second to determine the exact kick-point, 12 dedicated multi-tracking cameras that are “100% synchronised” will be mounted on the roof of each stadium to track the ball and 29 points on each player, sending data 50 times per second to calculate their exact position on the pitch. Any player in an offside position will trigger an alert in the video assistant referee (VAR) booth that can be relayed to the on-pitch referee.

The system was trialled at last year’s Arab Cup and Club World Cup, where it was estimated to have reduced the time taken to make offside VAR decisions from 70 to 25 seconds. “We are very positive. It is ready,” said FIFA’s head of refereeing Pierluigi Collina. NO ROBOT REFEREES It has been claimed the increased use of technology is rendering referees virtually impotent in terms of decision-making. Collina, who was voted the world’s best referee for six consecutive seasons from 1998 to 2003 and took charge of the 2002 World Cup final between Brazil and Germany, denies this is the case and says there will still be room for debate about decisions.

FIFA head of refereeing Pierluigi Collina “I read about robot referees,” he said. “I understand this is very good for head-

lines but it is not the case. The match officials are still involved in the decision-making process. The semi-automated technology only gives an answer when a player is in an offside position when they play the ball. The assessment of interfering with an opponent and seeing if a handball or foul was committed remains at the discretion of the referee. “Our goal is to get referees taking decisions correctly on the field. If something wrong should happen, the referee may take advantage of the technology to get a better vision of what happened - but there will still be room for discussion.” YOU ARE EITHER OFFSIDE, OR YOU’RE NOT Premier League’s Antho-

ny Taylor and Michael Oliver have been selected among the elite panel of referees who will gather in Qatar two weeks before the World Cup for final instructions. While there has been debate about the time taken to determine off-sides - especially what have been dubbed ‘toenail decisions’ - Collina does not view the new offside technology any differently from the systems used to determine whether a ball has crossed the line or not. Famously, that did not work in the first game of the Premier League’s Project Restart, when Hawk-Eye did not spot that Aston Villa keeper Orjan Nyland had carried the ball into his own goal. Collina does not feel that is an issue.

“Technology works most of the time,” he said. “That is one wrong decision I remember in thousands of correct ones. “Goal-line technology offers very high accuracy. If the ball crosses or doesn’t cross the line by a few millimetres everyone is happy. It is the same with semi-automated technology. If the player is on or offside, the technology should be praised then as well. “We cannot get it down to four or five seconds for a decision. That would be the wrong expectation. But we have come down from 70 seconds to 20 or 25. That is important. This system will be faster and more accurate. (BBC Sport)

Chief selector baffled about Lewis, praises commitment of ODI squad

White-ball opener Evin Lewis has not turned out for West Indies in eight months BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – Evin Lewis’s international future has remained cloaked in doubt after chief selector, the Most Hon, Desmond Haynes, said he was “not too sure” if the opener was still interested in representing West Indies, following a decision to opt out of a recent fitness test. The 30-year-old lefthander has not turned out for West Indies in eight months even though he featured for Lucknow Super Giants in the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) last month. According to Haynes, Lewis had been expected to complete a two-kilometre run while with the Super Giants, in order to prove his fitness for international selection, but had failed to do so. “I spoke to Evin … probably a couple weeks ago when it was reported to me

that Evin was asked to do a fitness test in India with his IPL franchise,” Haynes told a media conference. “And because of an injury, it was suggested he would do a 2K run. What was reported was that he started and then he didn’t do it. “When I reached out to him to find out exactly what really went on because I wanted to hear it from him, I asked him if all the things I’d heard regarding the injury (were correct), he said ‘yes’. I said: ‘You were asked to do a 2K?’ He said: ‘Yes’. I said: ‘Did you do it?’ He said: ‘No’. I said: ‘Did you not try to make arrangements to redo the test?’ He said: ‘No’.” He continued: “The vibes I got from him was like, you know, ‘I wasn’t interested in doing it anyway.’ “There’s nothing that I can do. I would really like a time to come for us where we can just get an opportunity to pick all these guys but sometimes I’m not too sure if these guys want to play.” Lewis has been a key player in the shorter formats for West Indies, averaging nearly 37 from 57 One-Day Internationals with four hundreds, and nearly 31 from 50 Twenty20 Internationals with two hundreds. In his absence especially this year, West Indies have used a range of openers, with Kyle Mayers, Shamarh Brooks, Justin Greaves and

Brandon King and Shai Hope utilised in various combinations across both ODIs and T20Is. Lewis, along with the likes of regulars Shimron Hetmyer and Jason Holder, missed the tour of the Netherlands and Pakistan last month, with West Indies fielding a relatively inexperienced side. However, Haynes said despite the 3-0 whitewash against Pakistan, he was impressed with the commitment

of the unit especially in very hot conditions in Multan. “I had the opportunity to tour Pakistan with the players and it was 46 degrees (Celsius) in the shade,” said the West Indies legend. “Our one-day games were starting at four o’clock and when it was 10, 11 o’clock at night, the temperature was going down to 39 or 40. “And I saw those young guys going out there and playing, giving their best in

those conditions and I want to say to them that I really appreciate the effort and the guys really wanting to play cricket for West Indies. I want to thank them for that. “You had a situation where the guys were getting back to the hotel at two o’clock and then it was very difficult to practise on that same day. The guys just needed some rest. But kudos to those guys who toured Pakistan in those conditions and I am glad I was there to

witness it.” Haynes added: “We always get a lot of negative things about our players (with people saying) they don’t want to play cricket for West Indies, they’re just going after money – all of that. “But then to witness these guys – even though they lost the series – just playing in those conditions, that was something that made me proud of those guys.”

Rohit back as India captain for T20, ODI series

ROHIT Sharma returns as India captain for the entirety of their forthcoming limited-overs series against England. The 35-year-old is out of the Edgbaston Test because of COVID-19 but will recover in time to skipper India for the three Twenty20 internationals and three one-day internationals. Hardik Pandya captained India in two T20s against Ireland and had been expected to deputise for the first two T20s had Rohit played in the Test. The first T20 is on July 7. Virat Kohli - whom Rohit replaced as skipper in February - will be available from the second T20 along with fellow Test players Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja.

They will replace Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Venkatesh Iyer and uncapped pair Rahul Tripathi and Arshdeep Singh. Seamer Umran Malik and all-rounder Deepak Hooda, who struck a hundred in the second T20 against Ireland, have both kept their places. Arshdeep has been named in the ODI squad along with Shikhar Dhawan and Mohammed Shami, while Shardul Thakur and Axar Patel have both been recalled. Wa s h i n g t o n S u n d a r, Kuldeep Yadav and Deepak Chahar are all absent through injury. India’s squad for first T20: Rohit Sharma (capt.), Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Ra-

hul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik (wkp.), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik. India’s squad for second and third T20s: Rohit Sharma (capt.), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Dinesh Karthik (wkp.), Rishabh Pant (wkp.), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel,

Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Umran Malik. India’s squad for ODIs: Rohit Sharma (capt.), Shikhar Dhawan, Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (wkp.), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh.

Schedule July 7: 1st T20, Ageas Bowl (d/n) (18:00 BST) July 9: 2nd T20, Edgbaston (14:30) July 10: 3rd T20, Trent Bridge (14:30) July 12: 1st ODI, Kia Oval (d/n) (13:00 BST) July 14: 2nd ODI, Lord’s (d/n) (13:00 BST) July 17: 3rd ODI, Emirates Old Trafford (11:00 BST). (BBC Sport)

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

Brilliant Bumrah puts England under pressure at Edgbaston … Ravendra Jadeja completes fourth Test century

JASPRIT Bumrah’s incredible all-round display put England under huge pressure on the second day of the fifth Test against India at Edgbaston. Bumrah took the first three wickets, before the crucial late loss of Joe Root was followed by the departure of nightwatchman Jack Leach to leave England 845, 332 behind. Stand-in captain Bumrah had earlier smashed Stuart Broad for the most expensive over in Test cricket history, costing 35 runs. With Ravindra Jadeja completing a fine century, India were bowled out for 416 - James Anderson picking up two of the wickets to fall on yesterday morning for figures of 5-60. Bumrah removed Alex Lees, the struggling Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope, before India were stalled by a two-hour break for rain - the third lengthy delay of the day. Evening sunshine gave India a bonus hour in which Root and Leach fell, leaving Jonny Bairstow unbeaten on 12 and skipper Ben Stokes on nought. The tourists lead the series 2-1, with this match rescheduled from September last year after the original

Ravindra Jadeja completed his fourth Test hundred early on the second morning fifth Test was postponed be- but one of the most skilful cause of a COVID-19 scare fast bowlers in the game. Buoyed by his batting in the India camp. and kept fresh by the rain NEW ENGLAND UN- breaks, he made light of the slow pitch to carve through DER PRESSURE Given all that happened England’s top order. He found a huge gap in on soggy yesterday, it is hard to believe the rain Lees’ defence and bowled allowed only 38.5 overs of the left-hander, before Crawley was suckered into play. England found them- an all-too-familiar edge to selves in trouble in all of the be held at third slip. three Tests they won against Crawley is comfortably New Zealand and they will the new England regime’s have to draw on all of their biggest problem. Stokes new-found resilience to has offered his unequivocal come through this situation. backing, but the Kent man’s India were always likely highest score in 11 innings to pose a more complex is 43 and the repeated nature challenge than New Zea- of his loose driving outside land, and the momentum off-stump hints at a player has been with them since who is not learning. they recovered from 98-5 on When Pope chased a the first afternoon. very wide one to slice to Bumrah is unorthodox second slip, Root and Bair-

stow, England’s batting stars of the summer, were reunited for another rescue job. Aided firstly by the rain, they were making steady progress when play finally resumed at 18:00hrs, even if Root was unusually loose outside off-stump and Bairstow a becalmed version of the batter that blitzed New Zealand. But with Root on 31, Mohammed Siraj got one to cut back, too close for an attempted cut, resulting in a glove behind. Leach was dropped off his first ball, then edged Shami behind off his fifth, meaning Stokes had to come out in the penultimate over of the day. BRILLIANT BUMRAH’S MOMENT OF HISTORY While Stokes’ approach to captaincy has been refreshing, even he has failed to shake off his predecessors’ baffling habit of approaching tail-end partnerships by bowling bouncer after bouncer with fielders scattered around the boundary. Time and again, the tactic has failed England. And yet, yesterday morning, when Jadeja resumed on 83 and with Shami yet to

Hudson out of World Championships team after failing to get approval in time AMERICAN-born Andrew Hudson will not be able to represent Jamaica at the upcoming World Championships in Eugene, Oregon, despite winning the 200m event at the Jamaica National Championships. Hudson stunned onlookers at the country’s national trials after finishing ahead of pre-race favourite and 2011 World Champion Yohan Blake, with Nigel Ellis finishing in third place. Hudson was one of three

American-born Andrew Hudson was hoping to represent Jamaica athletes, who applied to the were approved to compete Jamaica Athletics Adminis- at the championships. The trative Association (JAAA) JAAA was optimistic reto switch allegiance and garding the athlete being

given clearance to represent the country before the World Championships in Oregon. According to a release, however, the athletes will not receive clearance in time for the games. Hudson will as a result not be eligible to compete for Jamaica until July 28 and has been replaced by fourth-place finisher, Akeem Bloomfield, in the 200m. The JAAA also released the rest of the squad. (Sportsmax)

SCOREBOARD INDIA 1st innings (o/n 338-7 Shubman Gill c Zak Crawley b James Anderson 17 Cheteshwar Pujara c Zak Crawley b James Anderson 13 Hanuma Vihari lbw Matthew Potts 20 Virat Kohli b Matthew Potts 11 Rishabh Pant c Zak Crawley b Joe Root 146 Shreyas Iyer c Sam Billings b James Anderson 15 Ravindra Jadeja b James Anderson 104 Shardul Thakur c Sam Billings b Ben Stokes 1 Mohammed Shami c Jack Leach b Stuart Broad 16 Jasprit Bumrah not out 31 Mohammed Siraj c Stuart Broad b James Anderson 2 Extras: (b-4, lb-17, nb-14, w-5) 40 Total: (all out, 84.5 overs) 416 Fall of wickets: 1-27, 2-46, 3-64, 4-71, 5-98, 6-320, 7-323, 8-371, 9-375. Bowling: James Anderson 21.5-4-60-5 (nb-1), Stuart Broad 18-3-89-1 (w-1, nb-2), Matthew Potts 20-1-105-2 (nb-1), Jack Leach 9-0-71-0, Ben Stokes 13-0-47 -1 (nb-10), Joe Root 3-0-23-1. ENGLAND 1st innings Alex Lees b Jasprit Bumrah 6 Zak Crawley c Shubman Gill b Jasprit Bumrah 9 Ollie Pope c Shreyas Iyer b Jasprit Bumrah 10 Joe Root c Rishabh Pant b Mohammed Siraj 31 Jonny Bairstow not out 12 Jack Leach c Rishabh Pant b Mohammed Shami 0 Ben Stokes not out 0 Extras: (b-8, lb-3, nb-5) 16 Total: (five wkts, 27.0 overs) 84 Fall of wickets: 1-16, 2-27, 3-44 , 4-78, 5-83. Bowling: Jasprit Bumrah 11 - 1 - 35 - 3 (nb-5), Mohammed Shami 13-333–1, Mohammed Siraj 3-2-5-1.

get off the mark, Jadeja was faced with as many as seven men on the ropes and Shami regularly only faced one or two balls in an over. England’s approach finally bore fruit when Shami ramped to third man for Broad’s 550th Test wicket, but by then Jadeja had cut Matthew Potts for four to go to his third Test hundred. There were probably more runs out there for Jadeja, but he was bowled for 104 taking a swipe at Anderson. England had India 3759 and should have bowled them out for less than 400, yet what followed was some of the most chaotic, ridiculous Test cricket you could ever see. As Broad pounded the

ball into the middle of the pitch and Bumrah swung hard, England lost the plot. Two sixes and four fours came off the historic over. One of the sixes came from a no-ball and one of the bouncers went for five wides. With only one legal delivery bowled, Broad had already conceded 16 runs, the previous record for the most expensive over - 28 - was matched after four balls, and then Bumrah entered the record books with his second maximum. A single scrambled off the final ball made a total of 35, and the mayhem was only ended when Anderson had last man Siraj held at mid-off. (BBC Sport)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Sunday July 03, 2022) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD- 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Kemar Roach-5/53 (First Test Antigua) (2) Khaled Ahmed-5/106 (Second Test, St. Lucia) Today’s Quiz: (1) What was the highest partnership by a WI pair for any wicket in the recent WI/BANG Test series? (2) What was the highest partnership for a Bangladeshi pair? Answers in tomorrow’s issue2022

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

Caribbean paintball competition gets boost from Team Mohamed

Azruddin Mohamed (centre) hands over sponsorship to Kevin Hinds of Kendallz Extreme Sports while Josh Kanhai looks on THE Caribbean paintball competition has gotten support from Team Mohamed ahead of the July 17 event at the GNS ground, Carifesta Avenue. Organised by Kendallz Extreme Sports, the tournament is expected to feature teams from Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Barbados, St Kitts & Nevis, Grenada, and St Lucia, along with 10 teams from Guyana, and in recent days, a Surinamese contingent has expressed interest. According to a release to the media from Team Mohamed’s principal, Azruddin Mohamed, “Supporting youths in a positive way is something we will always continue to do and we know that out of this tournament, Guyanese stand the opportunity to represent the Caribbean. Another reason we create these platforms is for the expression of talent.” Mohamed further indicated, “We also want to showcase Guyana. It is a passion of mine, showing the world our amazing country and certainly with the number of teams coming, we will use our resources to show them this nation.” Meanwhile, Kevin Hinds of Kendallz Extreme Sports, explained that this particular tournament is to “spot talent in the Caribbean to select a team we can send to the USA in either November of this year or in January 2023 to represent the Caribbean”. According to Hinds, the Trinidad contingent has 12 persons, and while they are still working out logistics for the other countries, he sees this as a budding sport tourism activity for the country. In the future, there will be another tournament called ‘Big Games’ in which over 400 persons would come to Guyana from the United States and the United Kingdom, most likely during the July-August period. It will be a speedball format as in the pro-level, Hinds highlighted, and unlike the recreational aspect where only specific hits count, any hit will be valid in this format. Registration for local teams is G$15 000, covering the gear needed to compete, while patrons will be admitted free of cost. Registration forms can be accessed by visiting Kendallz Extreme Sports on social media platforms. Sheriff Security Service has pledged to support for the next two years and is among the list of sponsors, which also includes the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.

Rain dampens Windies fireworks, wrecks T20 opener

ROSEAU, Dominica (CMC) – Nagging showers ruined the opening Twenty20 International between West Indies and Bangladesh here yesterday, forcing an abandonment at Windsor Park. Sent in following a 1-¾hour delayed start, Bangladesh reached 105 for eight from 13 overs before the last of two rain breaks ended the contest late in the day. While the sun returned soon afterwards, the cut-off time of 17:18hrs (Eastern Caribbean time) for a fiveover run chase had passed, forcing match officials to take the eventual decision. Improved weather has been forecast for today’s second T20 International, although brief morning showers are expected. “I’m disappointed for the fans because obviously the crowd was such a nice crowd and fans were waiting for the game to go on,” said West Indies head coach Phil Simmons. “I know the rain kept some people away but hopefully there is no rain tomorrow and we can have a full house.” Wet spots on the bowlers’ run-ups negated any chance of a scheduled

13:30hrs start but once play got underway at 15:10hrs, West Indies quickly took control of the 16-over per side affair, as fast bowler Romario Shepherd (3-21) and leg-spinner Hayden Walsh Jr (2-24) struck telling blows. Left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein got Munim Shahriar (2) to edge the third ball of the innings to wicketkeeper Devon Thomas before Shakib Al Hasan, who topscored with a cameo 29 from 15 balls, added 34 for the second wicket with Anamul Haque (16). Shakib and Anamul took boundaries off the next over from Shepherd before Shakib got stuck into Hosein, clearing the ropes at long-on and finding the square boundary in the third over. H o w e v e r, l e f t - a r m seamer Obed McCoy broke the stand with only this third delivery when he hit Anamul in front with a fulllength delivery and thereafter, Bangladesh never regained momentum. Litton Das (9) put on 20 for the third wicket with Shakib before tugging a pull to captain Nicholas Pooran at short mid-wicket in the seventh over and

Akeal Hosein (left) and Hayden Walsh celebrate a wicket during yesterday’s first Twenty20 International. (Photo courtesy CWI Media)

Bumrah v Broad: The most expensive over in Test history

HISTORY was created by Jasprit Bumrah yesterday as the stand-in India captain took a world-record 35 runs

from one Stuart Broad over. Bumrah displayed his prowess with the bat by taking 35 from Broad’s final over in

Jasprit Bumrah launched a late assault with a 16-ball 31* as India’s total went past 400

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 3, 2022

the first innings as India’s tail wagged to help them amass a score of 416 in the fifth and final Test on day two at Edgbaston. The India quick hit Broad for two massive sixes (one came from a no-ball), four boundaries, a single and was helped with five wides in the record-breaking over. It meant Broad conceded a total of 35 runs, surpassing the previous record held by West Indies great Brian Lara, Australia’s George Bailey and South Africa’s Keshav Maharaj. Lara took 28 off one Robin Peterson over back in 2003, while Bailey (2013) and Maharaj (2020) also shared the record. Bumrah finished unbeaten on 31 - the highest score for any debutant captain batting at No.10 - as Mohammed Siraj eventually holed out to James Anderson. (ICC.com)

with four runs added in the next over, Walsh struck twice to heap further pressure on the visitors. First, he got Shakib to slash at a wide ball and edge behind after the veteran had crunched two fours and two sixes and three balls later Afif Hossain holed out to Brandon King in the deep without scoring. Struggling on 60 for five, rain forced a 35-minute break and with the game further reduced to 14 overs on resumption, Bangladesh’s fortunes only continued to decline. Captain Mahmudullah sliced Shepherd low to Walsh at point in the 11th over to depart for eight and Mahedi Hasan (1) perished in the same over when he feathered a catch behind. Wicketkeeper Nurul Hasan counter-attacked, lashing a four and a brace of sixes in a 16-ball 25, putting on 26 for the eighth wicket with Nasum Ahmed (seven not out). Nurul’s demise in the 13th over, swatting a wide ball from fast bowler Odean Smith into the deep, ended Bangladesh’s resistance and also signalled the final rain break.

Basketball boost for Ithaca

This is how we will do it. Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, plots the course with members of the ministry’s team who assisted in putting up basketball hoops at Ithaca

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| SUNDAY, JULY 3, 2022