Guyana Chronicle 02-21-2021 by Guyana Chronicle

21st February, 2021

, No.106279

GUYTRAC to construct $US8M complex at Prospect

--will employ over 100 persons, service petroleum sector SEE STORY ON PAGE 03

The women technicians 20 who plan to take GuySuCo to new heights PAGE

Body of Belle West man found in septic tank 17 PAGE

Toddler 02 beats Leukaemia PAGE

Mabaruma, Guyana: Joan Webber paddles away from the Red Cross distribution boat and towards home after receiving a hygiene kit and information about staying safe and healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic. She took the opportunity to ask questions about COVID symptoms and what to do if a family member has them. This area of Guyana has been impacted by COVID-19, but it can be hard to access cleaning supplies because of distance and lockdown measures (Guyana Red Cross Society photo)

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

Toddler beats Leukaemia –– returns to Guyana after successful treatment in USA By Navendra Seoraj LIKE a vampire in the night, cancer sneaks up on persons to drain their lifeblood and sink them into the depths of despair with debilitating mental and physical effects, which could be evaded only if the scourge is detected and treated early, as was done in the case of two-yearold, Avisha Best, who has successfully beaten Acute Lymphocytic Leukaemia (ALL). After 45 days of wailing with pain at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where advanced, life-saving treatment was unavailable, the toddler, through her family, received good news in December 2019, when the Saving Hands Emergency Aid (SHEA) Foundation took on 22-month-old, Avisha Best

the case and mobilised resources to have the treatment administered in the United States of America (U.S.A). That intervention was needed urgently because ALL, according to the American Cancer Society, progresses quickly, and, if not treated, would probably be fatal within a few months. It starts in the bone marrow, the soft inner part of certain bones, where new blood cells are made. Most often, the leukaemia cells invade the blood fairly quickly; they can also sometimes spread to other parts of the body, including the lymph nodes, liver, spleen, central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), and testicles (in males). Despite “incredible efforts” by doctors at GPHC, Best’s condition was worsening with each passing day.

But, thankfully for the toddler, SHEA was able to intervene quickly and transport her to the U.S. for treatment, which was anticipated to last for two years. In October last year, the foundation reported that the cancer went into remission after the toddler completed the initial phase of treatment. Best was anticipated home in time for Christmas 2020, but further treatment was needed before she could finally get the clearance to travel to Guyana. “It is indeed humbling for us to share this update to let you know that another of our cancer patients has returned home to Guyana. Avisha returned home to Guyana to the welcoming arms of her extended family. Today, her mother, Nicola, breathes sighs of relief as she also is

reunited with her family in the comfort of her home,” the SHEA foundation said, in a recent post on its Facebook Page. The foundation said it was a long and heart-wrenching struggle for Nicola, who fought hard, but fought strong for her baby girl. If there is one true hero in Best’s story, it is her mother, SHEA said. While the toddler is out of danger, the foundation said she must continue maintenance treatment for approximately one year. “SHEA along with Avisha’s U.S. based medical team stands ready to provide support should she need us anytime in the near future,” the foundation said. SHEA is a humanitarian organisation that provides financial assistance and coordinates free or low-cost treatment to address the emergency medical needs of individuals in impoverished countries. “Beginning in Guyana and the Caribbean and seeking to expand to other geographic areas in need (as funds become available), we will support and empower patients who cannot afford crucial medical treatment due to poverty or lack of appropriate services in their home country,” the foundation said. Their aim is to evolve into a sustainable and replicable model for improving emergency health outcomes. They plan on creating, funding and implementing healthcare plans that provide individuals with life-saving medical treatment and services.

Gold miner stabbed to death

THE police are investigating the murder of 29-yearold Randolph Semple, a gold miner of Third Avenue, Bartica, Essequibo River, which occurred on Friday evening at Pedymachi Black Water Backdam, Cuyuni River. Police Headquarters in a statement noted that Semple was at a shop around

18:00hrs when he first attacked the suspect – a Brazilian man – and stabbed him in the back with a knife. At the time, the suspect was on the roadway sitting on a motorcycle. Police said the suspect subsequently armed himself with a knife, approached Semple and dealt him a stab to his upper chest. The

suspect then escaped while Semple collapsed about 400 feet away from the shop. The matter was reported to the police, who, upon arrival at the scene, observed the shirtless body of Semple on the roadway. The body was taken to the Bartica Hospital mortuary and an investigation is now underway.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

GUYTRAC to construct $US8M complex at Prospect –– will employ over 100 persons, service petroleum sector By Telesha Ramnarine THE favourable prospects of Guyana’s ever-growing economy has attracted yet another investor, Guyana Tractor and Equipment company (GUYTRAC), which is looking to construct a US$8 million (approximately G$1.6 billion) state-of-the-art complex at Prospect, on the East Bank of Demerara. Known as a company with a stellar reputation for providing heavy duty equipment and spares to the Guyana market for over 20 years, GUYTRAC plans to include a warehouse and office space at its new complex, as well as residences for the directors, some of whom will be re-migrating to Guyana. The complex, for which funds are being sourced through loans from commercial banks, will also house a training centre for employees and heavy-duty mechanics, and create employment

for over 100 persons. “The need for such a complex became essential as the company seeks to consolidate its operations to one central location. Furthermore, with the upgrade of the Sheriff Street to Mandela Avenue Road, the company sees the wisdom of moving out of a congested area to one which is more spacious and easily accessible,” Marketing Manager, Bony De Andrade, told the Sunday Chronicle. GUYTRAC stands poised to provide products to the oil sector, keeping in mind the Government’s Local Content Policy, and has, over the years, supplied various brands of machinery to the country’s agricultural, mining and construction sectors. These include 22-to-40-tonne excavators especially suited for the mining industry and 5-to-15tonne excavators; graders, compactors and rollers are readily supplied to the rap-

idly expanding construction sector. De Andrade also spoke of plans to expand in providing all agricultural machinery to continually service this traditional aspect of the Guyanese economy. Plans are on stream to import various models of tractors that are well-suited for the tropical climate of Guyana as well as Rome ploughs, Harrow ploughs and Disc ploughs. GUYTRAC boasts an inventory of machinery and spares covering a wide range of heavy-duty machinery. The company is in high praise of the Irfaan Ali-led administration as it continues to foster a favourable business climate. Confidence in the pro-business approach of the new administration has motivated the company to continually make substantial investments. Despite the economic impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the

world’s economy, GUYTRAC said it recognises the potential for outstanding growth to Guyana’s economy and with confidence in the astute stewardship of the current government, the company has invested in 1000-tonne self-propelled barge, large cranes and a modern wharf at Friendship, East Bank Demerara to provide logistical transport to the ever-expanding oil and gas industry. De Andrade, who is also tasked with coordinating this new building project, further highlighted that GUYTRAC is in the process of acquiring another plot of land on which a modern state-ofthe-art factory, specialising in the manufacturing of preset concrete piles, slabs for bridges and utility poles, will be soon established. This additional investment will be to the tune of US$3M and is further testimony to the company’s unwavering commitment to

Work has already started on the land that will house the new complex

Marketing Manager, Bony De Andrade

contribute to the modernization of the country’s infrastructure. This project is one in a slew of projects which are scheduled for this year. Close to US$1 billion (G$215B) will soon be injected into Guyana’s economy in the form of worldclass hotels which will be constructed across the country to cater for the anticipated increase in visitors, who are being attracted by the nation’s burgeoning oil and gas sector and its spill-off benefits. A business-friendly climate supplemented by the anticipated economic ascension is being credited for the attraction of major players in the hotel industry, such as Sheraton, The Element, Delta Marriott, Best Western Hotels and Resorts, the H-Tower Luxury Hotel, the Marriott Courtyard, the Hyatt Hotels Corporation, the Radisson Hotels, and the Hilton Hotels and Resorts, among others. This level of development is aligned with the Government’s vision, which was outlined recently by Senior Minister in the Office of the President with re-

sponsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, during his presentation of the 2021 budget to the National Assembly. The budget is aimed at ensuring that there’s a diversified and resilient productive sector by facilitating large-scale private investment in both traditional and new and emerging sectors, creating 50,000 jobs in the next five years, and promoting entrepreneurship at the medium and small-business levels. Budget 2021 will also initiate investments in catalytic and transformative infrastructure, including energy infrastructure to ensure adequate supply at a competitive cost, and transport infrastructure to improve international connectivity, and unleash domestic production and productivity. The year 2021, according to President Ali, will be the springboard from which Guyana will leap into recovery, rebuilding the economy, enhancing the people’s health and lifting up the vulnerable groups in society. “We must not remain a rich country of poor people,” the President affirmed, noting that the bounty of Guyana must be shared across the population. “Opportunities will be created to join in such work, and they will be made available to all. I recognise that there are communities within our society which, because of disadvantages of geographic location, will need more help than others to join our national advance,” President Ali reasoned.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

Essequibo youths urged to take up skills training, grants THE government is urging youths in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) to take up the many skills training opportunities that are available at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport. A team from the ministry, led by the Director of Youth, Leslyn Boyce, conducted an outreach on Saturday during a two-day visit and met with a number of youths at Golden Fleece and Queenstown. The Assistant Director of Youth, Suresh Singh, said that there are various units within the Department of Youth that provide opportunities in the area of Youth Entrepreneurial Skills Training (YEST), Youth

Empowerment Unit (YEU), President’s Youth Award Republic of Guyana (PYARG) and the Volunteer Support Platform. Referring to the YEST programme, Singh said that through the Sophia training centre, Kuru Kuru training centre and Vryman’s Ervin training centre, Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) are available. As it relates to the grants, he said youths can apply, through the Youth Empowerment Unit, to acquire relevant qualifications, training and resources as well as experience. Meanwhile, Project Manager of the Volunteer Support Platform (VSP), Ger-

A section of the gathering at Golden Fleece

maine Watson, informed the youths that the unit provides training, support and networking opportunities to aid volunteers and volunteering organisations, as well as job experience. During the meeting, youths requested cricket gears, cooking and cosmetology classes. The team will also be reaching out to youths at Queenstown, Darthmouth, Lima, Sparta, Pomona and Charity. Assistant Director of Youth, Suresh Singh, speaking to the youths at Golden Fleece

Sunday February 21, 2021 –– 01:00hrs & 11:00 hrs Monday February 22, 2021 –– 01:30hrs & 12:30 hrs Tuesday February 23, 2021 –– 02:30hrs & 13:00 hrs

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

Imam Bacchus & Sons Ltd expands in Anna Regina –– new building to house pre-school, daycare, food court force to 400 employees by the end of 2021. The company believes in improving its human resource capacity and, as such, there are continuous training and mentoring of staff members in the various fields of the company. The supermarket currently boasts some of the finest equipment, a food court, the finest line of Halall fresh meat, complemented with courteous and friendly staff. Customers can shop in a fully air-conditioned environment while in the town. The supermarket will maintain its policy of not offering any alcoholic beverages to the public. The Imam Bacchus and Sons Limited store at Cotton Field, Region Two

Some of the employees of the Imam Bacchus and Sons Limited store at Cotton Field, Region Two

By Indrawattie Natram WHILE many businesses are downsizing their operations due to the effects of COVID-19 pandemic, Imam Bacchus and Sons Limited has invested approximately GYD$100 million in the township of Anna Regina on the Essequibo Coast by opening a third branch of its operation on Friday at Cotton Field, Region Two. As a result of the dreaded disease, the Board of Directors did not have a ceremonial opening ceremony and so, the doors of the two-storey state-of-the-art building was officially opened to customers on Friday. Apart from the supermarket, the fully air-conditioned building also houses a a food court, a pre-school and daycare centre on the upper flat. The centre, however, will only become operational when the necessary permission is granted by the COVID-19 ministerial task force and the Ministry of Education. According to the Corporate Chief Executive Officer

A customer inside a section of the supermarket

(CEO) and Chairman of the Board of Directors, Adil Baksh, the company was propelled to open its new location due to the tremendous growth evident in the town of Anna Regina. During an interview with the Sunday Chronicle, Baksh said the Board of Directors took a leap after learning that a portion of land was available in the community. As such, the directors decided to lobby the owner of the land and made a proposal to rent

it on a long-term basis. Baksh explained that based on internal studies conducted by the company, it is projected that the economy within the township of Anna Regina will blossom in the coming years. The new branch has already created job opportunities for some 30 persons who will join a workforce of 350 employees that are already employed by the corporation. Imam Bacchus and Sons intend to increase its work-

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

Tajeram Mohabir

Unproductive posturings UNDERLYING the social space of this land, there appears to be a sort of abrasive, antagonistic spirit at play in some quarters, which the nation would do well to be conscious of for progress to accelerate without unnecessary diversions and deviation into distracting, sidetracking paths, because this pervasive scapegoating habit shows up all over the place, carving a schism in the body politic, populating constant unending opposing views in sections of the media, and dividing the society into cynical groupthink segments, much of it stemming from irrational, emotive, personal bias, rather than sourced in factual information, sensible, well-thought out conclusions, or reasonable concerns. It is one thing to air one's raw views in private, in personal conversations; it is quite another matter to air one's unrefined views and raw vents on the public stage. For this society to tackle its natural inclination to vent and say whatever comes to mind, for the country to guard its public space and to cultivate a social atmosphere for Guyanese to feel inspired, motivated, empowered and edified when encountering the

public square, when listening to fellow citizens discoursing matters of national interest, this delicate undercurrent cries out for a safety net. In fact, one could easily see that this phenomenon played a big role in the country's history, especially since Independence. Some intellectually-minded souls point to the colonialists of the past as the architects of this underbelly to the Guyanese society, labelling it the divide-and-conquer tactic. So, the society accepts it as a realism, and then blames it on an abstract concept that finds no reality in current times. This spirit of antagonism leads to scapegoating, blaming, and non-engagement, which drains energy on the national stage, demotivates the population, and renders the public helpless under the spell of opposing personalities being unproductive in expending their energy in uncooperative endeavours. An interesting presupposition for this state of affairs seems to be that it is a natural outgrowth of a democratic society, that there is freedom for anybody to say anything at anytime about anybody, with little regard to such decent

considerations as responsible public behaviour, professional conduct, or exemplary leadership. Some folks feel that if they oppose everything the government does, for example, then they are exercising a sort of moral high ground. Of recent, the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) exercised its authority to haul a few people before the courts for social media posts that violated this tenet of respect, decent public discourse, and consideration for the well-being of others. However, much of the negative emanations across the society, day in and day out, surround not ethnic disrespect, but the functioning of government, with a seeming free-for-all to malign, gossip about, and tarnish the image of leaders who stand up to serve the Guyanese nation, with even a couple of the daily newspapers seeming to feel it is their moral duty to be critical of every facet of this society's government and State, some even behaving as if they must “balance” the proactive public State-owned media, with opposing views. Some media houses even blatantly ignore any attempt to practice objective public discourses or prop-

agate professional media content, with their strenuous opposition to leaders who they do not like or agree with on public matters. And they hide under the guise of operating a media outfit in a democratic society, touting the freedom to say and propagate anything as freedom of speech, but ignoring the need for responsible professional conduct in the public arena. It is a strange phenomenon, this scapegoating spirit that stalks the land, which most people ignore, and may not even be conscious of, but if left to fester and evolve, could derail, delay, and dent the progress and prosperity of this land. One could argue that it is precisely this phenomenon, this penchant for scapegoating, fault-finding, and this irrational finger-pointing, that caused Guyana to suffer during the 28 years that the People's National Congress (PNC) stifled democracy to keep the People's Progressive Party from governing this land, with a deliberate ploy to paint Dr Cheddi Jagan with a bad brush, and it is patently clear that this is the phenomenon that vaulted the Coalition into Government in 2015, causing five years of retrograde

decline for the country. So detrimental was the scapegoating against leaders of the PPP/C in 2015, that citizens across the country started believing that every leader of the PPP was corrupt. Now, everybody sees the truth, with five years of the Coalition focusing on vengeance, producing not an iota of evidence for the most devastating claim against PPP leaders. The country must exercise great care and sound wisdom to make sure this sort of thing never happens again in the nation's history. Such a thing may not be a big deal in a complex society, but for a small population like Guyana, with only four daily newspapers and a handful of national media outlets and with just a few national leaders and public commentators, this phenomenon becomes of vital importance, with every utterance invading, impacting, and influencing every corner of the country, touching the life of every Guyanese, causing a real possibility of disruption, public angst, and lack of citizen confidence in their government and their direction as a people.

Gov’t praised for handling of economy and COVID Dear Editor, THE Guyanese public have praised the government for its handling of the economy, although they have also expressed some concern about the perceived rising crime rate and inflation and the rising cost of living (increase in prices of basic goods). This is a finding of an opinion survey conducted last month by well-known pollster Dr Vishnu Bisram for the North American Caribbean Teachers Association (NACTA). Respondents were asked what were their major concerns and about the state of the economy, among other issues. The survey found that the nation overall is very pleased with the performance of the six-month- old PPP government, but feel greater

attention should be focused on combating crime. The public largely praised the government's efforts to turn around the economy, and they looked forward for the budget that was presented in parliament last Friday. Some said the government did more for the economy in five months than what the coalition did in five years; but some feel that more effort is needed to increase household incomes. While government has been praised for job creation, it is felt more should be done to create jobs to reduce unemployment that was created by the preceding regime. Many respondents say that their money has depreciating value. Prices of basic needs have been skyrocketing, while salaries are not increasing, and not too many people are being re-hired since they

lost their jobs under the APNU-led regime. The respondents in the poll are satisfied with the government’s efforts in various sectors of governance. The Ministries of Legal Affairs, Agriculture, Natural Resources, Housing, Public Works, Local Government, Public Administration, among others, came in for special praise. The ministers are going around meeting the population in outreaches for their views. Among those who have been singled out for their performances are Indar Deodat, Anil Nandlall, Colin Croal, Zulfikar Mustapha, Bishop Edghill, Vickram Bharrat, Sonia Pariag, Kwame McCoy, Nigel Dharamlall, Vindya Persaud, and Frank Anthony. T h e g o v e r n m e n t a l s o r e-

ceived kudos for its handling of COVID-19 and race relations. But it has been noted that not everyone is taking the threat of COVID seriously. Not everyone is taking the necessary precautions of social distancing and wearing masks. And some are still gathering in groups, ignoring the risks to life posed by COVID. It has been noted that infrastructure and agriculture have improved substantially over the last six months and house lots are increasingly being made accessible. The government was praised for rehabilitation of roads and bridges. Farmers say Agriculture Minister Zulfi Mustapha is down to earth, going around meeting them and quickly addressing their concerns and facilitating digging of drains to

prevent flooding. Respondents in the poll feel that GECOM needs reforming to ensure free and fair elections. People don’t feel that CEO Lowenfield and DCEO Myers should be retained in the commission, because of their role in the attempts to rig the March 2020 elections; the public lacks faith and confidence in both of them. Some have suggested that there is need for a GECOM with commissioners independent of the political parties. Some even proposed an idea for elections to be run by an external body such as the UN or the U.S., Canada, or the UK, to deter rigging. Yours sincerely Vishnu Bisram

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

Practise tolerance, grab all educational opportunities –– Commander Pareshram urges ranks to the rules and regulations. “It takes an entire community working with the police to sustain long-term public safety…we must reimagine policing so that it relies less on physical interventions and more on community,” the Commander said. He added: “Villages across the country must take immediate steps to en-

Senior Superintendent, Khali Pareshram, and other senior officers inspecting one of the ranks at the Brickdam Police Station

COMMANDER of Regional Division Four ‘A’, Senior Superintendent, Khali Pareshram, has advised over 300 police ranks to practice tolerance when executing their duties and to take up every opportunity to enhance their education. The Commander made the plea during an inspection of the various stations, outposts and departments of the division in the compound of the Brickdam Police Station. The ranks were physically inspected, a few irregularities were observed and they were later warned that disciplinary measures

will be instituted if there is a repeat. The Commander, in his brief remarks, charged the ranks to take all necessary precautions and to adhere to the COVID 19 rules and regulation, in an effort to keep their colleagues, families and themselves safe in the midst of the pandemic. Meanwhile, in an invited comment, Commander Pareshram underscored that the emotional and physical health of the ranks are important if they are expected to execute their duties effectively and efficiently. He also urged members of the public to also adhere FROM PAGE

Imam Bacchus & Sons Ltd .... Meanwhile, the food court will provide customers with honey roasted chicken, fried chicken, burgers, pizza and local cuisine along with cappuccino, slushi, milkshakes, ice coffees, and even sushi. “We will have everything under one roof; there is a supermarket, a food court, a pre-school, and also a daycare. We are catering to meet the masses and they can come and enjoy the clean setting provided at Bacchus,” Baksh told this newspaper. The CEO expressed appreciation to the people of Region Two. “I want to take this opportunity to thank the entire Essequibo community, for believing in Imam Bacchus and for their continued support over the years, we will continue to provide the best service in a lit and friendly environment to the populace,” Baksh remarked.

The company has branches in Affiance, Henrietta, and now Cotton Field. Imam Bacchus and Sons Limited is a household name in Essequibo; the business was established in the 1950s as a simple milling operation by the now deceased Imam Bacchus. Over the years, it has added to its growing portfolio the manufacture of value-added products from wheat flour and other raw materials. Imam Bacchus and Sons is the sole distributor of several packaged flours from the National Milling Company of Guyana Inc (NAMILICO). It has managed to successfully manufacture its own chowmein, vermicelli, baby food, and barley flour at its factory. Imam Bacchus also has its poultry farm, gym and a recreational park.

Four ranks were presented with trophies for their smart turn out during the inspection

sure that everyone responsible for public safety—

law enforcement and the community—is protected

from this virus and future pandemics.”

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

Understanding Energy

Guyana Draft Local Content Policy entering an important phase PRESIDENT Irfaan Ali’s administration delivered on one of its central campaign promises when it released the much-anticipated draft of its Local Content Policy last week. While the Local Content Policy aims to increase the involvement of Guyanese

workers and businesses in the development process, the ultimate goal of the policy “is to ensure that its oil wealth is used in a manner that allows for the sustainable development of other industries,” according to the president. To achieve this goal, Guyana must be careful to implement

policies that are tailored to domestic needs so as to avoid the pitfalls of reduced revenues, delayed development and exclusion of small and medium-sized businesses. In general, local content policies focus on increasing the participation of local companies and workers in

the industry and encouraging local partnerships with international companies. The draft of Guyana’s Local Content Policy has a number of points that would prove highly beneficial to Guyanese. Banking reforms that increase access to financing will positively impact local businesses and

allow for necessary growth in the country. A new training and development fund will also help Guyanese to gain the skills and knowledge needed to engage further in the growing oil and gas industry as well as other industries that will emerge as the country develops. Finally, proposed intellectual property protection are critical to encourage additional international investment that will benefit all Guyanese. The productive stakeholder meeting organised by the government at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre showed, however, that other parts of the draft Local Content Policy will require careful consideration to ensure they have the intended effect. As every country develops and grows, it is important that policies, across sectors, are tailored to fit the needs of the individual country. This is why Vice President Jagdeo highlighted the need for an analysis of Guyana’s current capacity. It’s also why policies and targets that come from countries like Ghana, Nigeria and Brazil could make Guyana vulnerable if lessons aren’t learned from their implementation elsewhere. Local content policies have the power to support the development of specialisation and expertise in many sectors, but overly strict standards or quotas have sometimes led to major delays or prevented local companies in technical fields from developing safely over time. Production delays reduce revenues for the country, and expertise takes time to develop. Guyana is already on a good path with local content, and sustainable standards are necessary to keep the momentum going. If targets don’t reflect realities on the ground, they can do more harm than good. Nigeria, for example, has 200 million more people than Guyana and decades of experience with oil and gas, but it has struggled to meet targets that are almost identical to those proposed for Guyana. Some of these concerns—such as a requirement to use locally-produced steel even though it’s not available—came up at the government’s stakeholder meeting last week, and President Ali and Vice President Jagdeo expressed willingness

to make sure targets were appropriate for the current capacity of Guyana’s economy. With respect to the Local Content Plan, stakeholders will also need to carefully consider the most effective role for the government in the sector. The draft includes a plan for a government-run database that will require all companies to register and would only permit hiring of contractors and workers from these lists. This fits the local content goal, but details of the policy will be crucial. Similar systems have created a perception of corruption in other countries if small and medium- sized companies are shut out in favour of larger companies that have close ties with government officials. Guyana is off to a good start by holding a public discussion of the draft local policy, and it’s important to make sure that the final version is designed to give all businesses flexibility to meet local content goals. Finally, while local content policies and targets should be tailored to fit the needs of the individual country, there are important reasons to make sure that compliance and safety certification standards in the draft policy are linked to international standards. Without international accreditation, specialised Guyanese companies could be shut out from neighboring countries like Suriname or Brazil. This would limit expansion opportunities and the possibility of Guyana becoming a regional hub for oil and gas expertise. The government of Guyana has provided an opportunity for stakeholders to foster strong and sustainable development by providing thoughtful and tailored comments to the draft local content policy. Ultimately, it is the government’s responsibility to avoid the pitfalls that other countries have encountered and put forward a final policy that is fit to its capabilities and development goals, has realistic standards, avoids the appearance of corruption, and pushes Guyana toward the goal of a sustainable, diversified economy.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

Always good to have multiple sources of income

–– says UG lecturer who has a passion for décor

Shenella Benjamin (in orange) along with her father George Benjamin (next to her) and staffers of Benjamin’s Adult Domiciliary Care Service Hub

SHENELLA Onika Benjamin was raised believing that multiple streams of income help people to maintain their financial integrity. “You never have to compromise, because of the lack of finances,” she posited, during an interview at her home in New Amsterdam, Berbice. “My dad (George Benjamin , Snr Warrant Officer (ret’d.) and my mom( Barbara Benjamin, the late Departmental Sister at the New Ams terdam Hospital) were always engaged in business… three- dimension income… they also believed

that one source of income is crippling , should an individual lose their job,” Shenella said. So, on July 1, 2013, some nine years after graduating with a degree in Agriculture from the University of Guyana, “Gifted Hands,” a business specialising in décor, was launched. At the start, there were several hurdles, inclusive of an ill father, an overseas scholarship, and staffers’ inability to be effective in her absence, due to their personal issues. Despite the challenges faced, Shenella ensured that all things worked together for

her good. Fortunately, during her tenure at the Hebei Agriculture University in Baoding City, Hebei Province, China, where she secured her Masters in Agriculture, Economics and Management, she had the opportunity to visit a ‘six-step industry.” “As an agriculturist, it was intriguing to see you can have a six- step industry, where you can have agriculture [sic] produce which can be linked with the service industry. I was fascinated, and I realised there was a bigger concept referred to, as the new agro tourism.”

“My father always tell me I can do agriculture and décor .I could not see how I could have bridged the gap between the two. I am totally amazed of the new concept observed in China. Initially, I wanted a conglomerate, but, this is a different idea, with an agriculture base. “So, I have repackaged Gifted Hands. The future is to go into a six-step industry where I can use my profession in Agriculture Science, and my passion for décor, linking

Niketa Wong and Shenella Benjamin

the two together. So, when you come to me, I would be able to cater for your wedding and give

products which I would have grown organically,” she said. TURN TO PAGE

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

COVID-19 and Mental Health

Contributed by: Dr. Davendranand Sharma Professor of Behavioral Health THE World Health Organization (WHO) predicts that the next pandemic would be a crisis in mental health disorders. Mental health includes emotion, cognition (thought process), behaviour, and the personality of the individual, which all originate in the brain. Abnormal reaction to any one of the components of mental health can occur by three main mechanisms: gene influences, the influence of

past experiences of trauma and conflict present in the unconscious, and external stressors. External stressors are often by events out of the control of the individual, which can impact the brain leading to emotional, cognitive and behavioral disorders. The COVID-19 crisis is an event which came unexpectedly and has led to significant changes to the lives of everyone, including children,

who have to adjust to a new way of life that disrupts their social development in school and play. The COVID-19 crisis can affect an individual’s brain, causing mental health disorders in a number of ways: directly by the viral impact on the affected persons’ immune system and also by changes in brain function by direct entry into the brain, causing a wide variety of neurological problems, including delirium

and vascular disorders. Neurochemical changes occur which can lead to emotional problems and behaviour problems, including aggressive behaviour and confusion. Impulse control disorders and addiction disorders are included in the behavioral disorders; anxiety and depression in the emotional disorders; and poor concentration, overthinking and worrying in the cognitive disorders. Indirect effects are the secondary consequences of the COVID-19 crisis. Depression and anxiety are felt as a reaction to financial difficulties and social isolation. Changes in schedules may cause sleep disorders with increasing tiredness during the day. A marked decrease in recreational activities may lead to family tension and persons may experience increased irritability and mood changes. Compensatory overuse of cell phones, which some persons are on for many hours of the day, can cause brain wave changes and in some cases seizure episodes. Fear of contracting the COVID-19 virus and dying can lead to panic attacks where persons experience short bursts of heart racing, shortness of breath, increased sweating, feeling as if everything is unreal, and experiencing extreme fear. Persons of different age groups show different reactions. The elderly, who are a vulnerable group, experience depression, which is insidious and presents quiet worry, loss of appetite, fatigue, and sometimes hopelessness with thoughts of dying. Working adults generally would experience more anxiety related to finances and parenting, with concerns about contracting the viral illness, leading to obsessional extreme cleansing and phobias, including fear of contamination. CHILDREN Children of different age groups show different responses. Young children age 1 to 6 years can experience helplessness, fear, sleep terror, nail biting and depression, manifested by withdrawal from social activities. Older children and adolescents may show mood changes, more social isolation, loneliness, anxiety and obsessional diversion by cell phone overuse. The psychological consequences of the COVID-19 crisis can also be divided into acute and chronic effects, and

can also be experienced by health workers and by those who are affected indirectly, such as the family of the patients who succumb to the illness. Acute effects include emotional shock, acute grief reactions and acute stress disorders. These reactions consist of an intense period of confusion, disbelief, denial, anxiety, agitation and mood changes. Feelings of de-realisation and depersonalisation may also occur and people often talk about this experience as being unreal and feel that it is a bad dream from which they would wake up and find life as before. The time frame for acute reactions depend on the individual’s personality, life experiences, maturity, coping capacity, and professional support received. Generally, acute reactions continue to be intense for several days and would usually last up to a month, during which time the individual would go through the stages of grief, denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and hopefully come to accept the reality of the horrific pandemic and associated loss which allows for resolution of symptoms. Supportive counselling is the usual method of helping individuals through this period. However, if a grief reaction continues to be intense after the first month and is associated with abnormal symptoms, including hallucinations, alcohol abuse, prolonged depression or persistence of denial and anger, this would be pathological grief and would require specialist treatment. PTSD Health workers are prone to experiencing “burn out” when their cognitive capacity could be compromised, resulting in problems with judgement. Acute stress reactions which persist for more than a month are called post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is a serious consequence. Post traumatic stress disorder, if untreated, causes significant distress and is associated with substance abuse disorders, especially alcohol abuse and dependence. Common symptoms of this disorder include feelings of de-realisation and de-personalisation, depressed mood, persistent high anxiety or arousal states, and nightmares. Avoidance behaviours could include fear of go-

Dr. Davendranand Sharma

ing outdoors and obsessive cleansing. Individuals who are particularly prone to developing this disorder include children, the elderly, people with mental health problems, and frontline workers themselves. Frontline workers are a special group of vulnerable people primarily because of the denial of their own emotional feelings and the use of defences like isolation of emotions to cope with the enormity of the crisis and to try to remove unpleasant visual images and memory. Unfortunately, these defences result in emotional numbing. PTSD may lead to alcohol abuse in an effort to block out painful memories. The management of PTSD requires specialist treatment and involves primarily psychotherapy, including treatment of associated conditions like substance abuse. Psychological consequences can be mitigated in their intensity by adequate preparation and response. This should include public education on stress management and information on the availability of support systems and on how to access these services. The training of personnel to be able to recognise and deal effectively with emotional reactions is of value. Utilising psychological first aid for frontline workers involved in the crisis may help to prevent stress reactions in persons providing relief and care. A national Mental Health and Psychosocial Support system (MHPSS) is recommended by the WHO and PAHO as valuable for preventing and managing emotional and other mental health problems associated with the COVID-19 crisis. This article is submitted as part of the Ministry of Health’s COVID-19 public information and education programme

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

APNU+AFC Coalition misused the autonomy of the political I AM convinced that Guyana has come out of the shadows of colonialism and one-party dictatorship. Guyana is, of course, still subject to neocolonialism, dependent development, and independent development modelled on western prototypes. I will leap onto the proverbial limb here, however, and state that Guyana has been experiencing, in the past two decades, what is called the autonomy of the political. It is a term that underscores the opportunity to practise politics without interference. The freedom of autonomy does not mean freedom of restrictions from other entities. Rather, autonomy means freedom to self-rule but the adherence to regional and international political norms in the family of 195 sovereign nations. Amid the responsibility of democratic governance, there have been many questionable events going on in Guyana that forces one to step back and wonder if the country has been on a slippery slope for too long. One lingering event is the attempt by APNU+AFC Coalition and its planted sidekicks in GECOM to steal the March 2, 2020 general elections. This event has brought us back, however temporarily, to the Third World caricature of the old. We have receded from regular to rogue governance, which leads me to say that Guyana might have for the past decades, been experiencing demo-optimism rather than democracy. The attempt at rigging was

“defeated.” There has been a new administration in power. While we welcome these events, there is no guarantee that attempts of electoral rigging would be a practice of the past. In Guyana, the past is always in the present. The mere fact that I am writing about rigged elections is a testimony of how the past has always been alive. Not too long ago, there was a flare-up between the PNC and GECOM Chair. The PNC asked for a special meeting with the GECOM Chairperson, but the latter was uninterested. This askance by the PNC reminds us that all is not well with Guyana’s second most important “independent” institution, GECOM, after the Government. I have stated in other columns that it would take at least two election cycles to flush out the dirt in GECOM. Tainted feelings are too deep-seated for quick reformation. Perhaps foreign participation is needed at the highest level in GECOM, as suggested by one columnist. That said, we are not sure how the failed attempts to rig the general elections have affected the individuals who were directly involved other than their steadfast determination to successfully finish their assigned task. Additionally, a narrative of a flawed general election from APNU+AFC Coalition is still on the cards as evidenced by one petition in court. That is their right and writ of certiorari, or their grouse. We do know, however, that the attempt to rig the general elections shook up Guyana in unanticipated ways. FROM PAGE

Always good to have ... Aside from décor, Benjamin has partnered with Niketa Wong, and together they have launched the Benjamin’s Adult and Domiciliary Care Service Hub, ( named in honour of her father ) which caters for the needs of the elderly. This business affords young women and single mothers an opportunity to be employed, while becoming beneficiaries of skillsets from an elderly person, whom they might have taken care of. “Women who are struggling are able to earn by helping an elderly person, who in turn may have a skill such as crotcheting, painting, sewing, cooking, catering etc.. … these necessary skills help to make life and livelihoods, as it was back then. .. It has been lost. Our young women need to be empowered and resilient. There is a need for survival skills,” said Benjamin , the Coordinator of the Division of

Agriculture at the University of Guyana Tain Campus. In view of COVID- 19, the geriatric hub is being rebranded to include escort services and in home care. All staffers are exposed to continuous training offered by the Institute of Distance and Continuing Education and other in-house professional and international training. Looking back, Benjamin is grateful to God for grace and favour and her father whose decision to stay with his three children, to guide and nurture them after the death of his wife, almost 22 years ago. ‘He kept his vow. He made the sacrifice. His energies were focused on us [George Jnr and Shenella], getting us qualified so we can make a positive contribution to society. I am so glad he stayed,” she said. Shenella.

Up to March 2, 2020, we could have made some safe categorisations and predictions of how far we have come as well as how and where we might be going. For instance, we could have said that it would be impossible to repeat the rigging of general elections. The world has changed. The rigging of elections has no place in the modern world. Then, who would have thought that a Coalition party that was voted into power by “visionaries and revolutionaries” with so much popularity, would want to be involved in the rigging of an election deemed credible? In a recount of the votes, though not perfect, revealed that the PPP/C received 233,336 votes

and the APNU+AFC Coalition received 217,920 votes. Yet, the pongs of the rigging cabal in the APNU+AFC Coalition and GECOM have been marketing a narrative of electoral victory. The courts will rule on the first election petition. It has already dismissed the second petition. I am eager to see how the APNU+AFC Coalition’s explanandum of winning the general election will pan out in court. You may want to ask: if the Coalition’s case is dismissed, then what? Would the Coalition accept defeat? This is a loaded question because it would define and determine how Guyana moves

forward. We care because the PNC has had a history of being stubborn in this area. To admit and accept a loss will demonstrate that the APNU+AFC Coalition has departed from the past, a situation Guyana needs for healing and reconciliation. Perhaps the APNU+AFC Coalition should be reminded that modern society is defined and distinguished by laws, not only by established laws, but by adherence to laws especially by those who know better, our leaders. It becomes embarrassing when the “better part” of our society refuses to live up to statutory responsibilities and when they behave like

the “lowest denominator” of society. Such a behaviour wreaks havoc in any society and sends the message that our leaders do not care a hoot whose backside is gored except their own. Welcome to Guyana, Mon! (lomarsh. roopnarine@jsums.edu).

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

With Dr. Shivani Samlall, MBBS, Gynecologist Oncologist Dr. Shivani Samlall, MBBS, is a specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology with a sub-specialty in Gynecology Oncology, and with over 10 years of medical practice. Dr Samlall can be contacted at drshivanisamlall26@gmail.com.

ENDOMETRIOSIS, INFERTILITY AND OVERCOMING SOCIETAL BURDEN SOCIETY continues to exert enormous pressure on married couples to have children. Couples are constantly being bombarded with questions from family, friends, neighbours, workmates and even strangers regarding their fertility. Mostly, the women endure the bulk of

this pressure. This constant intervention into a couple’s fertility underlines the lack of empathy and knowledge as to the causes of infertility in both men and women. While there are several causes, this column explores Endometriosis, as a cause of infertility with the intention

of bringing awareness to the severe burden of this disease and the impact that it can have on women’s lives. Let us talk about Gina, a close friend of mine. Gina is not the typical endometriosis patient. In fact, up until a few months before her diagnosis, she recalled never hav-

ing severe pains during her period. She did indicate that she sometimes had back pains that radiated down her legs, and, years before, she suffered significant delays between her cycles (sometimes extending to 40 days). After suffering excruciating pains one evening, Gina

did several ultrasounds which all yielded different diagnosis. She travelled to Jamaica, underwent laparoscopy, and was diagnosed with Stage IV Endometriosis! At this time, Gina and her husband were hoping to start their family and her doctor advised her to try for one year before doing an in vitro fertilization (IVF). She recalls the enormous pressure she faced during this time. Separate and apart from the unintended pressures she faced from family members and friends – she felt less of a woman every single time she saw a negative pregnancy test. Gina eventually decided to go ahead with IVF and travelled back to Jamaica for the initial tests. Upon returning home to prepare for the treatment, she found out that she was pregnant! Naturally! Without any fertility treatment. Let us talk Endometriosis. WHAT IS IT? Endometriosis is often a painful disorder in which tissue like the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grows outside the uterus on other organs. During each menstrual cycle, this “endometrial-like” tissue, thickens, breaks down and bleeds. Surrounding tissue can become irritated, eventually developing scar tissue called adhesions (bands that cause tissues and organs to stick together). Areas of endometrial tissue (implants) can show up on organs including the ovaries (causing chocolate cysts or endometriomas), fallopian tubes, outer surfaces of the uterus, vagina, rectum, intestines, cul-de -sac (space behind the uterus). How common is endometriosis: Endometriosis occurs in about 1 in 10 women of reproductive age (from first period to menopause). It is most often diagnosed in women in their 30s and 40s. SYMPTOMS OF ENDOMETRIOSIS Pain: The most common symptom. Pelvic pain and cramping (especially just before and during periods). The intensity of the pain varies. For some women, the pain can get worse over time and can become debilitating. It can also be in the lower back and the abdomen. Women can also have pain during or after sex, pain with bowel movements or urination. Heavy bleeding or spotting between menstrual periods. Others: fatigue, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, nausea, especially during menstrual periods.

WHAT IS THE LINK BETWEEN ENDOMETRIOSIS AND INFERTILITY? Almost 40 per cent of women with infertility have endometriosis. Sometimes, endometriosis is first diagnosed in those seeking treatment for infertility. Inflammation from endometriosis may damage the sperm or egg or interfere with its movement through the fallopian tubes and uterus. In severe cases of endometriosis, the fallopian tubes may be blocked by adhesions or scar tissue. Diagnosis of Endometriosis: Although a gynecologist may perform a physical exam, including a pelvic exam, and an ultrasound, the only way to tell for sure is through laparoscopy; during which, a small amount of tissue is removed and sent for biopsy. Treatment of Endometriosis: Treatment depends on the extent of the disease, the symptoms, and whether the woman wants children. Endometriosis may be treated with medication, surgery, or both. When pain is the primary problem, medication usually is tried first. Besides pain meds, there are also other options for managing pain such as heating pads, hormonal medications to stabilise hormone fluctuations, pelvic-floor physical therapy to help relax muscles, etc. As in Gina’s case, surgery is sometimes done to relieve pain and improve fertility (by removing as much endometriosis implants and adhesions as possible). Additionally, IVF and other fertility treatments are not always necessary to obtain a pregnancy. Furthermore, surgery does not cure endometriosis. While most women have relief from their pain after surgery, about 40–80 per cent of women have reported the return of their pain within two years of surgery which may be due to the extent of the disease. The more severe the disease, the more difficult it is to remove all the endometriosis at the time of surgery. Taking birth control pills or other medications after having surgery may help extend the pain-free period. Not many women are as fortunate as Gina, since many are suffering without a diagnosis or as to the cause of their pain and infertility. This is mostly due to the low suspicion of this disease, to the unavailability, especially in the public sector, of laparoscopic services, and to having only one functional pathology lab that is centrally located in the country. My hope is that with March being Endometriosis Awareness Month, more emphasis is placed on recognising the impact of this disease on women’s lives and efforts are made to improve the services so that they are readily available to these women. Note: This columnist thanks Gina Arjoon for sharing her story. It is Gina’s hope also, that her story can help spread awareness of Endometriosis and that it can serve as an inspiration to women.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

75 COVID-19 patients recover, 42 new cases AN additional 75 persons who were infected with the virus, COVID-19, have recovered, taking the total number of recoveries to 7,729, according to the Ministry of Health’s COVID-19 Dashboard for February 20. Despite the recoveries, however, 42 additional persons were infected over the 24-hour period, after 1,057 tests were conducted. These

new cases take the total number of cases recorded in Guyana to 8,399. One new case was recorded in Region Two, three cases in Region Three, 32 in Region Four, one in Region Five, three in Region Seven and two in Region 10. The cases were also drawn from 23 men and 19 women. There are 10 persons in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 16 in institutional quarantine, 34 in

institutional isolation and 437 in home isolation. This means that there are 497 active cases of COVID-19, locally. Additionally, there have been no new deaths, therefore, the number of lives lost to COVID-19 since March last year remains at 189. As per the gazetted COVID-19 Emergency Measures (No. 14), there is a nationwide curfew imposed

from 22:30 hrs to 04:00 hrs daily. All Guyanese are urged to observe the protocols of the COVID-19 emergency measures, which emphasise the need for correct and consistent use of a face mask when leaving your home, the

importance of maintaining the six feet physical distance from others, and the need for good hand-hygiene to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. If you or anyone you know is displaying any of

the symptoms associated with COVID-19, or need any additional information, kindly contact the COVID-19 Hotline: 231-1166, 226-7480 or 624-6674 immediately, or visit the Ministry of Health at www.health.gov.gy

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

Guyana at 51 BY MICHAEL YOUNGE ON Tuesday, Guyana celebrates its 51st Anniversary as a Republic at a time of great international socio-economic uncertainty and political divisiveness. These problems are made, much more complex, by the current COVID-19 Pandemic which has engulfed the world infecting 110M persons and killing 2.44M people or more worldwide. Added to this health emergency, politicians across the world are wreaking havoc to some of the most sacred and ancient organisations that exist in the modern world to regulate their access to power and wealth in the developed, developing and underdeveloped economies. Coupled with this, Guyana at the turn of its semicentennial anniversary had to co-exist in a world where the dynamics of climate change were changing so rapidly, with the bigger countries not doing enough to stop it, and change course by using their renewable and non-renewable energy more sustainably. At home, Guyana found itself dealing with those three critical issues listed above, in addition, to the normal challenges of building a more cohesive and multicultural society where the distribution of wealth reaches every citizen, thereby creating the necessary changes in the standard of living. Already, the People’s

Progressive Party/Civic Government elected to office in August of last year understands this very well. Afterall, they waited five months to get into power, and an even longer time to deliver the change that was so badly needed to confront the second and third problems mentioned specifically above. This is not to say that A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance For Change Government, was not trying but they had the policy mixture all wrong. And the officials who were charged with implementing these piece-meal policies were not making any real or tangible progress to say the least. So, it took a new mind in the person of President, Dr Irfaan Ali to inspire the right policies initiative to bolster change in the right direction. This wasn’t hard because the President was a minister already and served under the watchful eyes of then President Bharrat Jagdeo who is still very integral in Government, even after being named the ‘Champion of the Earth’ for his work on climate affairs internationally. President Ali seems committed to realising the full climate pact and all the policies needed to produce a cleaner energy base for generations to come. The environment will play a critical role in ensuring Guyana’s development of oil, gas and its other natural resources.

These must be done in the most sustainable manner if we are expected to continue reaping the benefits for generations to come. Similarly, the same zeal is needed when dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. The Government has been doing a remarkable job in tackling this issue in a transparent and open manner that is leading more people to get lined up for testing. The policy initiatives adumbrated have even reached those who had doubts about the wearing of masks, hand-washing and other steps taken to prevent a COVID-19 health crisis. Now with the advent of the vaccine, the authorities need to secure enough doses for the population. President Ali has already taken up this mantle and more work needs to be done in tackling the frontline workers who still have issues related to their working conditions which will be addressed in short order by the ministers responsible. And finally, the political divisiveness which must be addressed as Guyana marks its 51st anniversary. This nonsense must end when we are dealing with our nation’s development and patrimony. We must never be a part of acts which can lead to our patriotic right being called into question. There must be “oneness” as the President referred to it in our nation. That is why, the Commission which was

Woman 'busted' with drugs in private parts at Ogle airport - also admits to swallowing pellets POLICE arrested a 23-year-old woman at the Eugene F. Correia International Airport, Ogle, East Coast Demerara, on Saturday, after a search on her body revealed that she was carrying a stuffed condom filled with cocaine. The condom and its content were later extracted from her vagina. Police Headquarters, in a statement, noted that the suspect, who was booked on Caribbean Airlines flight

#BW 215 destined for Barbados, was requested to be searched after she was observed acting suspiciously. Police said a physical search was done and she passed out the bulky package. She was also questioned and admitted to swallowing 73 cocaine pellets. She was arrested and taken to a hospital to excrete the cocaine-filled pellets.

The condom filled with cocaine that was retrieved from the woman

announced a few days ago is being seen as taking a step in the right direction. And though it will seem highly unlikely, there must be ethnic solidarity as well

as unity against those politicians that seem to pit us apart because they are not getting their way in the halls of our National Assembly. The budget debates sched-

uled after Mashramani will prove this point when the politicians stand to speak. As the public prepare for a very spirted and lively debate, it must decipher truth from the untruths that will be told in the Assembly. As Guyana is now beaming with the hope and a new dawn, let us celebrate the things that make us “one” and truly Guyanese. Let us be thankful that we are not going through the motion with having a puppet or caretaker government but one that’s strong, effective and decisive when it matters the most.

Joint Services visit Reg. 1

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

…as part of image-rebuilding outreach ON a mission to enhance the image of the Joint Services, Deputy Police Commissioner (ag), Clifton Hicken, and Colonel Julius Skeete led a team into Mabaruma, Barima-Waini Region One on Thursday last. The visit also entailed a security assessment of the region, while the law enforcement officers met with the regional administration to assure that the Joint Services were thoroughly investigating

the allegations of rape brought against military personnel in the past week. Both teams expressed concern about such and committed to rebuilding the image and public trust of the Joint Services across the region. Police Headquarters, in a statement, noted that the regional team raised concerns about poor accommodation for the members of the Joint Services and noted that proper and adequate transportation

was needed for both land and water in order to effectively combat crime in the region. The issue of timely payment of contracted suppliers of the Joint Services was also raised. The Joint Services team also reiterated that its members, who are serving in the region, must be proactive while approaching their duties with a high level of professionalism. TURN TO PAGE

17 Deputy Commissioner (ag), Clifton Hicken (extreme right) with ranks of the Joint Services at Imbotero Police Station during the outreach

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

Body of Belle West man found in septic tank where persons were checking,” the relative noted. After his body was removed, police and others noticed chop wounds on the head. Investigations continue as police hunt for the suspect.

Dead: Colin Anthony

THE body of 32-year-old Colin Anthony known as ‘Harry’ was found in stuffed inside a septic tank at his Belle West, Canal Number Two, West Bank Demerara house on Saturday. The Sunday Chronicle understands that Anthony lived in the small wooden house with another male, who has since gone missing, and police believe he is the murderer. Relatives of Anthony told this newspaper that he was last seen alive on February 16, 2021, when he celebrated his birthday. “His birthday was last Tuesday and no one saw him since then. The owner of the house and Harry lived in the building and the owner disappeared with the cycle which was owned by Harry,” a relative told this

newspaper. The relative, who did not want to be named, alleged that the suspect was last seen cleaning the house and burning bushes on Thursday last. When Anthony’s relatives did not hear from him, they started to enquire from residents. Residents, early on Saturday, complained of a stench in the area, and upon investigation, they found Anthony’s body in the septic tank. “One of his sisters did not hear from him for several days and no one in the village saw him and when persons tried calling his [telephone] number, they were alarmed when they were not getting through and upon inspection and investigation, his body was later discovered in the septic tank after a foul odor began to spread in the yard

Joint Services visit ...

FROM PAGE

A commitment was also given for serving members to continue collaborating with the regional administration on various projects and activities that the administration may propose. Talks of continued collaboration to ensure highly maintained security to the region were also explored. After the meeting, the Joint Services team visited the following areas: Morawhanna, Shell Beach, Imbotero and the Mabaruma Police Station where they briefed ranks of what was expected of them while serving in the region.

Ranks were also urged to continue to work together as a team to fulfill the mandate of securing the region and the country’s frontier. The regional administration team was led by Regional Chairman, Brentnol Ashley; Vice-Chair, Annasha Peters; the Regional Executive Officer (REO), Tikaram Bisesar, and other members of the Regional Democratic Council. The Mabaruma Town Council was led by Mayor Chris Phang; Deputy Mayor, Carolyn Robinson and Town Clerk, Ganesh Seecharran.

A relative pointing to the septic tank where the body was discovered (Adrian Narine photo)

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

Guyana escapes ‘winding road to recovery’

- as Latin America, Caribbean countries not expected to return to pre-pandemic growth until 2023 By Vishani Ragobeer IT will be a long and winding road to recovery for Latin American & Caribbean (LAC) countries but the commodity-producing countries - Guyana, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago - are expected to ‘bounce back’ better with significant growth expected in Guyana. According to recent reports from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), there will be uneven growth in the real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) across the

A section of one of the newer investments in Guyana, the massive Amazonia Mall at Providence on the East Bank of Demerara (Adrian Narine photo)

LAC region. The economies of Guyana, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago -- the commodity exporters in the Region -- are projected to grow by 4.0 per cent, however. Guyana, according to current IMF data, is projected to grow by 8.1 per cent this year. It is important to note that this builds upon the 26.2 per cent real GDP growth recorded in 2020; then, Guyana was the only country in the Caribbean to record positive growth. In January, the World Bank projected that Guyana’s economy would grow by 7.8 per cent in 2021. This figure was a 0.3 per cent reduction from the previous 2021 projection made by the bank in June 2020. For context, the Real GDP is an inflation-adjusted measure that reflects the value of all goods and services produced by an economy (in this case, Guyana’s economy) in a given year. In simpler terms, the real GDP measures a country’s total economic output, adjusted for price changes. The World Bank also said that Guyana’s Real GDP grew by 23.2 per cent in 2020. Last year, prior to the pandemic, Guyana was expected to grow by 86 per cent in 2020. Like the rest of the world, the pandemic had a devastating impact on the economy owing to the slowdown in productivity and the increased need to bolster social services. It was Guyana’s burgeoning oil-and-gas industry, and the associated increase in construction and service activities, that cushioned the impact of the pandemic on the country. During the presentation of the 2021 National Budget, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, noted that as per the government’s calculations, Guyana’s economy grew by 43.5 per cent. Dr. Singh, however, highlighted that the non-oil sector of the economy contracted by 7.3 per cent. The fishing, mining, forestry, manufacturing, services and construction sectors were all impacted by the COVID-19 restrictions, resulting in reduced productivity. There were small increases recorded in the water supply and sewage sector as well as in the elec-

tricity sector. Meanwhile, the IMF noted that the tourism-dependent countries -including Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, The Bahamas, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines -- are expected to grow by 2.4 per cent. The entire LAC Region is expected to grow by 4.1 per cent. The growth in the tourism-dependent countries of the Caribbean was downgraded for the Caribbean, from 4 to 2.4 per cent, since resumption in vital travel and tourism activity has been much slower than anticipated. “Full recovery is still a long way ahead, though. We forecast that the Region will go back to its pre-pandemic levels of output only in 2023, and GDP per capita in 2025, later than other parts of the world,” a blog published by the IMF earlier in February, noted. Further, the blog noted, “The crisis had a disproportionately large impact on employment with losses concentrated among women, young, informal and less educated workers—with consequences for social indicators.” In October 2020, also, according to the NASDAQ Stock Market, Guyana’s growth was projected to be 12 per cent in 2021, 49 per cent in 2022 and 28 per cent in 2023. The country’s GDP of about $6.8 billion is expected to more than double by 2025, reaching over $14 billion. These projections may be subjected to downward revisions. In this vein, the IMF noted: “...this already uneven recovery has been threatened by the pandemic’s recent resurgence and the reintroduction of stricter containment measures in some countries, as well as spill overs from the slowdown in the global economy.” Guyana is a middle-income developing country and its massive growth has been largely attributed to its burgeoning oil-andgas sector. The country is, however, resource-rich, even without oil as it is covered by dense forests, and is home to fertile agricultural lands and abundant natural resources. Gold, bauxite, sugar, rice, timber, and shrimp are among its leading exports.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

Rice millers hopeful of recovering losses from Venezuela market - Agri. Minister commits to exploring options for assistance

The group of rice millers who met with the Minister of Agriculture on Friday Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha (second right) during the meeting with the rice millers

RICE millers who have incurred millions of dollars in losses after Guyana lost the lucrative rice market in neighbouring Venezuela in 2015 are still seeking assistance from the government to offset their losses. On Friday, a group of millers from Essequibo who have suffered over $800 million in losses, met Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha during his ‘Farmers Open Day’ meeting, seeking assistance. The millers explained that they had purchased large quantities of paddy with the expectation of exporting to Venezuela, but were forced to sell their paddy on the local market for less than half the cost they paid. This resulted in massive losses. One miller, Ramesh Ramlakhan, lamented that despite

selling his paddy at a loss he still had to service his bank loans. “When we didn’t get those payments, we lost the capital, but we still owed the bank. Everyone that has a rice mill has an overdraft or a loan to the bank. There’s a commitment there where the bank is still charging us interest,” he was quoted as saying in a release from the Ministry of Agriculture. Another miller, Wazir Hussain, said he is currently engaged in court cases with the bank for outstanding debts, following the losses he incurred from the collapse of the Venezuelan market. “There was a quota system set up. If you purchased, for instance, 100,000 bags of paddy, 30 per cent would be shipped to Venezuela. The

rest would be sold to other international markets. As it is now, it is very difficult,” Hussain highlighted. Since then, he has been forced to attend numerous court hearings. He said that he is fearful of losing his premises if he loses his case in court next month. He also highlighted that he had 28 containers of rice that he delivered to the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) in May/June of 2015, but he has not received payments as yet. After listening to their concerns, Minister Mustapha said the government is aware of the issue and is examining ways to provide support. “We’re looking at ways to help millers, both from the financial institution aspect and from the government level,

but I cannot make a commitment today on what we will do. It’s a lot of money so as a government, we have [to] work on a mechanism to assist millers who were affected when the market collapsed under the previous adminis-

tration,” the minister said. The minister also noted that he has asked his officers from the GRDB to compile a list of all the millers who were affected and subsequently, he will meet with the Guyana Rice Millers’ Association

to discuss this matter and a number of other issues. He also assured the millers that he will continue to engage the Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, on a way forward. Another concern raised by the millers was the sums owed by Panama for rice exported in 2018 and 2019. Minister Mustapha informed the group that he is scheduled to soon have another meeting with the Panamanian Minister of Agriculture to get an update on the matter. He also said that the government has engaged international agencies to assist with recouping the funds owed.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

The women technicians who plan By Rehana Ahamad OVER the past decade, the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) has been an underdog, struggling to reclaim its position as a leading income earner for the country. In 2017, under the David Granger administration, a decision was taken to close four estates – the ones located at Rose Hall, Skeldon, Enmore and Wales -- and some 7,000 sugar workers were said to have lost their jobs in that process. Later, when the Irfaan Ali government assumed office in August 2020, efforts commenced to reopen these estates, and the corporation’s new leadership is promising a massive “comeback” for GuySuCo and the country’s ailing sugar industry. From all indications, this will not be an easy task, but it is one that is being supported and likely to be advanced by the vibrant young women who have been breaking barriers in several male-dominated positions at GuySuCo’s Blairmont Estate; the Sunday Chronicle

These young, talented women are breaking barriers and excelling in various male-dominated fields at GuySuCo

caught up with a handful of them on Friday. During a pleasant interview, Candacy Mentore re-

called her dreams of becoming an independent “office woman”; she imagined herself as someone who wore flat-

tering high heels and would always have her hair neat and nails well done. “I was in a business stream while I was attending Tutorial Academy, and I really wanted to work in an office,” Mentore explained. A Career Day talk done by representatives from GuySuCo’s training school would soon change her life in drastic ways. “The way they talked, the place sounded nice; it sounded like a good opportunity, so I decided to collect a form and fill it up…I eventually wrote the test, and I passed and got through,” Mentore recalled. Her dreams would eventually entail having her hands and nails covered with fuel and grease, as opposed to glitter lotions and acrylic.

“I finally, actually fell in love with what I have become; it really was a great opportunity and you rarely find females taking up this type of course; most of my female friends would say that they don’t want to get their hands dirty and all of that,” Mentore told the Sunday Chronicle. She said that choosing to get her hands dirty was one of the most fulfilling things she has ever done. After completing a four-year apprenticeship programme, Mentore has been working for two years in the auto-electrical shop at GuySuCo’s Blairmont Estate. “Right now, I am working in the motorcycles shop; changing brakes pads, changing wheel bearings, servicing motorbikes, changing oil and everything relating

to auto-electrical work,” the 22-year-old New Amsterdam resident related. She said that her experiences so far have underscored the universal saying that women are capable of doing it all. “I really love it. It is very nice, because females can do anything, and we should start doing different things and not always go with the norm. We can be whatever we want to be; we don’t have to limit ourselves,” Mentore posited. A WHIZ IN THE SHOP Kavita Persaud is also an auto-electrician attached to the Guyana Sugar Corporation. While she was in fifth form, her school also benefitted from a “career talk” facilitated by GuySuCo’s training school.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

n to take GuySuCo to new heights “They shared out the forms and I didn’t collect any, but while going home from school I collect my friend own and I photocopy it. I full up the form and I drop it in,” the Blairmont resident related. Soon after, Persaud made the decision to abandon the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) and drop out of school at the age of 16. “I never used to like school,” Persaud told the Sunday Chronicle. A few days later, destiny would strike and Persaud would receive a pleasant phone call from a representative of GuySuCo’s training school. “I get a call fuh seh I got to go and write a test, and whilst writing the test, I keep wondering if I guh pass,” Persaud recalled. She explained that the tests were based on the four core subject areas – Maths, Science, Social Studies, and English Language. “Little after, they said I passed the test and then little after that I start the course,” the young woman related. The courses are residential and Persaud had to move into a dorm located in the compound of the Blairmont Estate. “At one point I start to cry and I tell mommy that I didn’t want to go back; it [was] too hard, I tell her that I didn’t like the food and so; I was ready to give up,” the young woman remembered. Persaud received wholesome encouragements from her brother who had already passed through the system; she would later graduate from the GuySuCo training school with flying colours. “After that, they start to place us in sections and I came over at the electrical shop, where we fix starters and alternators and so on. We do servicing and stuff like that,” Persaud highlighted. After four years of apprenticeship and two years working in the shop, the young woman enjoys using every opportunity to push herself, and with each passing day, becoming an even better auto-electrician. “Sometimes the boys does want to jump and do things, and I does try to do it myself to show that I could do it too,” a candid Persaud said. WHEN THE CHEMISTRY IS JUST RIGHT! Meanwhile, Herstelling, East Bank Demerara resident, Melina Gildharie is currently a participant in GuySuCo’s Management Training Programme, where she is being trained to become a Chemist Shift Manager. The young woman, who will be graduating from the

the field, and then the sugar comes out, but we never actually ask ourselves about all the processes that it needs to go through, and when I see it, I am in awe,” the young woman noted. “When we are here during the out-of-crop period and you’re dismantling and putting things back together, it’s like, wow…these people are doing it…so you’re just fascinated by how everybody

Melina Gildarie hopes to prove that women can do it all

Candacy Mentore is not afraid to get her hands dirty

University of Guyana this year, said that her love for chemistry runs deep, and that the aforementioned programme was an ideal fit for her aspirations. “I have an aunt who is a chemist and I worked with her while I was doing workstudy and I really enjoyed it a lot. I realised that this was my field…this was what I needed to get into,” a smiling Gildharie told the Sunday Chronicle. She said that she learnt of the GuySuCo opportunity a couple years ago, and armed with high hopes, she immediately applied. “They took me in last year. They said that I didn’t need the experience, and that they would train me; I found that to be a really nice thing, because as somebody fresh out of UG, nobody really wants to take you in, so I felt like the opportunity found me,” Gildharie related. She explained that during the out-of-crop period, the participants of the programme would be stationed within the different sections of the estate. “There were the labs, pre-milling and milling, and we would just be undersigned, whether it was to the foreman or the shift manager, and they would take us through the stuff,” the former St. Rose’s High School student said. She noted that the senior officers would mostly explain various components of the estates, but on some good days the trainees would be allowed to participate and get a hands-on experience of what being a Chemist Shift Manager entails. Gildharie said that the operations of the Blairmont Estate which she now calls home, have often left her fascinated. “Standing there sometimes, I wonder who came up with these things, because it really just works…you see the cane that comes in from

triguing. “Just today [Friday] we learnt how sugar is boiled, and it blew my mind, because it is boiled under atmospheric pressure, and I asked the guy, ‘so why?’ And he was like, ‘because it lowers the temperatures,’ and I’m like, ‘but that makes it cooler’, and he was like, ‘exactly’ and that just blew my mind,” a seemingly bubbly Dianna recalled. Once she completes the

Asked whether this has been a deterrent, Gildharie responded “When they tell me that it might hard, it just makes me want to do it more.”

Dianna Johnnie is working towards heading GuySuCo someday

is working and the work that they do and so on…it’s been a really good experience so far,” the smiling young woman said. She said that being one of the few women working in technical capacities at the estate has had some unique, but minor challenges. “I hope I make a really good shift manager, because a lot of people are skeptical because I’m a girl…they’re always like okay, ‘when you start, this is what the timings would be like, and will you be able to handle it?’

SISTER CHEMISTRY Christina and Dianna Johnnie are sisters; both are University of Guyana graduates who lived with their parents at Timehri, East Bank Demerara. When the sisters completed their tertiary education, they were both looking for employment opportunities and other ways of elevating themselves. They stumbled upon a useful GuySuCo advertisement in the newspapers and opted to apply. “This was an opportunity that presented itself, and we applied and got through and so we’re here. It’s been excellent, because being somebody who likes to learn, and this being an environment with endless information, it’s been great,” a smiling Dianna related. She said that being amidst and learning of the operations of the Blairmont Estate has been both rewarding and in-

Kavita Persaud feels at home in the auto-electrical shop

management programme, the young woman hopes to become an effective and efficient Chemist Shift Manager who can add to the advancement of not only the Blairmont Estate, but all of GuySuCo. “I want to be ranked the very best and climb my way to the top; as far as I can go,” an ambitious Dianna posited. Her sister, Christina Johnnie, was initially a little concerned about moving away from home, but she knew that the management programme was a step in the right direction. “My parents were a little

skeptical at first because we had never moved away from home or lived on our own before, but that in itself has been a new experience for both them and us,” Christina said. The Biology major has been keen on soaking up as much knowledge and gaining as many experiences as she possible can. “I hope to complete the programme successfully and become a Chemist Shift Manager, because I think it will open many doors…I have been learning so much and meeting a lot of new people,” Christina told the Sunday Chronicle. The 26-year-old, who also has a minor in chemistry, said that she was taken aback by the fact that even though the UG graduates in her field often accounted for mostly females, the technical posts within the estates are male-dominated. Christina is hopeful that in the coming years, more young Guyanese women would see GuySuCo as a sea of knowledge with endless scope for professional growth. “I am really hoping that I could complete this programme with flying colours and secure a permanent job right here, because really and truly, this is a great company to work in.” Collectively, these young women said that they are committed to providing the kind of exceptional services that can help to bring GuySuCo out of its current rot, and set the ailing sugar industry on a course to reaching new heights.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

Fighting on the frontlines, and ‘front-of-the-line’ for COVID-19 vaccine - GPHC Pharmacist recounts experience with first dose of COVID-19 vaccine narai was given a vaccination card, which is particularly important as she is required to take a second dose of the vaccine after about eight to twelve weeks’ time, as suggested by the World Health

Pharmacist at the GPHC, Brinnet Bernarai, was the first Guyanese to receive the first dose of the Oxford-Astrazeneca COVID-19 vaccine (Vishani Ragobeer photo)

By Vishani Ragobeer AS a frontline worker exposed daily to potential and positively infected COVID-19 patients, signing up for the first set of COVID-19 vaccine was almost a ‘no-brainer’ for pharmacist at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), Brinnet Bernarai. What she didn’t expect was that she would have been the first person in the entire country to do so. On Wednesday, February 10, Barbados donated 3,000 doses of the Oxford-Astrazeneca vaccine to Guyana; that Caribbean country secured 100,000 doses of the vaccine from India, as part of the South-Asian country’s Vaccine Maitri (friendship) initiative. And, by Thursday, Guyana was prepared enough to begin the rollout of the vaccines. Since the Oxford-Astrazeneca vaccine is given in two doses, 1,500 persons would receive the jab from the donated batch. And, as part of the Ministry of Health’s vaccination rollout plan, frontline health workers were first in line to get those jabs. Bernarai was one of those frontline health workers; at the GPHC, she works in the area setup for triage at the East Street side of the hospital. Here, every patient and visitor are screened as part of efforts to mitigate the spread of the virus into the hospital. The ‘East Street’ triage area is also where the hospital’s pharmacy is located and Bernarai is often the nexus between patients who

need their medicine (and the correct dosage, at that!) and the pharmacy. “I found myself in contact with a lot of positive patients and so, it was said that the frontline workers would get the vaccine, especially those who work with positive patients or suspected COVID patients. I just said I would take it,” Bernardai told the Sunday Chronicle during an exclusive interview, recently. Previously, this newspaper was told that the various Heads of Departments at the hospital were asked to submit a list of health workers who were willing to take the vaccine, as the vaccination is not compulsory. And, this is particularly important for those departments that were directly involved with the treating and interacting with COVID-19 patients. A colleague of Bernarai, a young doctor also working in the triage area, was expected to be the first Guyanese, and the first local frontline worker to be vaccinated. But he became infected with COVID-19 before and therefore, could not receive the vaccine. That means, the ‘front-of-the-line’ spot was vacant. “It was a surprise to me when I got there, and then they said that I’m the first person. It was a shock and surprise... I didn't know because I expected the doctor first to get the shot,” the pharmacist recalled. Soon after 09:00h on that Wednesday, the vaccine carriers, which allowed the vaccines to be stored at an adequately cold temperature, were brought to the vaccination room at the GPHC. Ber-

Organisation (WHO). As she walked into the room, which was, by the way, filled with eager health officials and members of the media, she was provided with basic information on the

vaccine and what potential side effects she could experience. Subsequently, the vaccine dose was taken out of the carrier, inserted into the syringe and finally, inserted into Bernarai’s arm.

“When they told me I was ready, I was nervous because of the needle but then after I got the shot, it wasn't that painful,” she related. TURN TO PAGE

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

Improved garbage collection service from next week

By Telesha Ramnarine HEAD of Solid Waste Management in Georgetown, Walter Narine, has said that citizens can expect an improved garbage collection service from next week owing to the fact that the new contractors who were hired lately are now more familiar with the territory. With Puran Brothers Disposal Services no longer working with the City Council, the new contractors have been settling into a new routine over the past month or so, and have

not been managing to complete their schedules on time, resulting in citizens having to leave their drums and barrels on the streets unsure of when the collectors would turn up. Narine said he is aware of the difficulties that this can bring and has thus called a meeting with the new contractors to implore upon them the need to be timely in their collection. Even Cevons Waste Management, an old contractor, has also not been completing its schedule on time. Commenting on the withdrawal of Puran Brothers, Na-

Head of the Solid Waste Management Department, Walter Narine

rine offered: “Yes we miss Puran Brothers and it’s sad they are not with us but again, the council would have done everything in its power to engage them to come up with an amicable solution towards having them back and those negotiations broke down. “It’s not that that we have closed the doors on Puran Brothers; we have given them a fair chance and extended ourselves to them because they have worked with us for 33 years but they didn’t see eye to eye with us in our negotiations and the work of the City must

go on with or without Puran Brothers.” Puran Brothers, though, is maintaining that the company cannot renew its contract with the City Council with figures for the next three years being lower than what they were currently working with.

MARKET AND COCONUT VENDORS Meanwhile, market waste, especially in the environs of Bourda, along with an increase in coconut shells that are being dumped on just about any open space in the city, is significant-

While noting that serious actions ought to be taken, Narine said his recommendation to the City Council has always been to place this set of vendors on Merriman Mall where they can be better controlled and managed. “We cannot manage at their present location. They are so much on the road that vehicles cannot pass.” The coconut vendors, too, are just as guilty as they themselves move their carts around and dump their shells at any open space they see. Very soon, Narine informed, the coconut

Garbage being removed from North Road last Friday

ly affecting the work of the council. The situation is particularly existent on North Road, Alexander and Robb Streets where the market vendors are paying the social rejects to remove and dump their waste. “The vendors do not even care to find out where they’re dumping it. They go right on North Road and dump their garbage or in front of Mike’s Pharmacy. This is ridiculous and totally unacceptable and the vendors are solely responsible for this,” Narine lamented in an interview with the Guyana Chronicle a few days ago. The majority of the vendors who engage in this practice do not live in Georgetown but are merely here to sell their produce. As such, Narine is saying that they have no regard for the environs in which they operate daily. In fact, all they seem to be concerned about is that their garbage is being removed at a very minimal cost. What especially makes this practice inexcusable is the fact that the market is being cleaned by sanitation workers who traverse with bins that the vendors can put their refuse in. “But they’re not doing that. They want to accumulate all the waste and then at the end of the day’s sales, they give it to the rejects. We have a big static compactor that is one street away on Orange Walk, Ow man; can’t they ask these rejects or whoever to take their garbage there? It’s appalling to see what the vendors are contributing to our society.”

vendors will have to be engaged about a special clearance for them which would involve them paying for their waste to be collected daily. The coconut shells account for about ten tonnes of garbage daily at Bourda Market alone. Explaining why there suddenly seems to be a surge in waste being dumped on parapets, Narine explained that Solid Waste Department is no longer using its vehicles to pick up garbage. “We can’t be a parapet waste collection department,” he asserted, adding that it is time people are named, shamed and prosecuted for this practice. He pointed out how only when there are accumulations of waste over a period of time that people rush to highlight it on social media. “Nobody comes forward with a video or a picture of somebody dumping at these sites so we can arrest them. Nobody does that. When there’s an accumulation, then all the blame comes on City Hall shoulders and it’s unfair.” “It’s a fight to get out of this scourge of dumping garbage all over and anywhere,” Narine added, as he recalled how the notorious 2005 floods happened not only because of overtopping but due to clogged drains as well. Meanwhile, Narine has created a social media platform called 'Shame on You Litter Bug.' The Facebook Page will give the public an opportunity to post photos of persons found littering.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, February 21, 2021

Fighting on the frontlines...

FROM PAGE

As part of the standard protocols instituted, Bernarai was required to sit down for 15 to 20 minutes. During that time, she would be monitored for any adverse reactions or side-effects to the vaccine. Common side-effects include redness and/ or soreness at the site of the injection. Fortunately, she did not experience any concerning side-effects and was able to return to her duties. Later that night, however, she began experiencing some side-effects; she had a mild fever and a headache. By morning, however, those side-effects had subsided and she said she was ready for another day of work on the frontlines. “I feel very honoured to inspire people also to get their vaccine in this pandemic and not to be afraid. It's a good thing and I think people should get the vaccine,” the pharmacist highlighted. For her, personally, this vaccine brings a sense of relief. Though frontline workers are seen as some of the heroes of the pandemic thus far, their jobs are not the easiest. Exacerbating the risk of exposure to the virus, these workers also have to contend with those individuals who do not believe that COVID-19 is something they should be concerned with. “That's terrifying… when you're trying to help them, you're putting your life on the line, and they don’t want to listen” Bernarai said, commenting on persons’ nonchalance or sometimes, outright aversion to following the myriad of COVID-19 guidelines in place. While vaccines may offer some amount of protection to health workers on the frontline, admittedly, there are still many uncertainties. There are concerns over how long the protection offered may last and also, whether they will be effective in protecting against the new and emerging variants of COVID-19. Though the technology used to develop these vaccines has been around for a number of years, and each of the vaccines went through the requisite clinical trials to ensure safety and efficacy, concerns over the short time in which these vaccines were developed linger. These concerns are not

unique to Guyana. In fact, the WHO noted that vaccine hesitancy — which is a delay in the acceptance or outright refusal of vaccines despite the availability of vaccination services — are a threat to global public health. This sense of hesitancy, the WHO reported, may be driven by complacency, lack of confidence, fear and misinformation. On the same day Bernarai took her vaccine, Head of Internal Medicine at the GPHC, Dr. Mahendra Carpen also got his jab. “I can understand the fear that people may have but when we look at the scientific evidence, the scientific scrutiny and everything that is presented, it’s very clear that the benefits outweigh the risk…. and that is what we look for in every medication, in every new medical device,” Dr Carpen told this newspaper. Bernarai, too, was of the opinion that widespread vaccination would help the population exit the pandemic. “The vaccine is a very good thing and as it was developed, it went through all the trials before it was cleared and given to us…I think I'm grateful that we have the vaccine, as a third world country, we have the vaccine and we will be okay,” she emphasised. Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, recently highlighted that Guyana will be delaying the time between the first and second doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine from three weeks to between eight to twelve weeks. This Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, which is manufactured in India by the Serum Institute, has an efficacy of 62 per cent, while it offers 100 per cent protection against the severe form of COVID-19, hospitalisation and death in a primary analysis of Phase III clinical trials. However, studies carried out in a smaller subgroup reported that the vaccine is 90 per cent efficacious, with a lower dose than the required two doses. Now, according to a newer study from the Oxford University that is under review at the Lancet, a single standard dose of the vaccine provided 76 percent protection (or effi-

cacy) overall against symptomatic COVID-19 in the first 90 days (about twelve weeks). Then, vaccine efficacy reached 82.4 per cent after a second dose in those persons with a dosing interval of about 12 weeks.

Pharmacist at the GPHC, Brinnet Bernarai, being told about potential side-effects of the COVID-19 vaccine before she took the jab (Vishani Ragobeer photo)

SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 21, 2021

Osaka juggernaut rolls on to second Australian Open tennis crown By Ian Ransom

MELBOURNE, Australia (Reuters) - Naomi Osaka crushed Jennifer Brady 6-4, 6-3 to secure her second Australian Open title yesterday and cement her standing as the new queen of the women’s game. Osaka’s one-sided win over the 22nd-seeded American in the final at Rod Laver Arena gave the Japanese juggernaut her fourth major crown, with her career still budding at the age of 23. She joined Monica Seles and Roger Federer as winners in their first four Grand Slam finals, marking her out as the ultimate big match performer. “My reaction is that that’s very amazing company,” Osaka told reporters, sitting next to the winner’s

Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup. “I hope that I can have one grain of how their career has unfolded. But you can only wish and you can only just keep going down your own path. “But it’s definitely something crazy to hear.” More major trophies surely await her if she can convert her irresistible hardcourt form to French Open clay and grass at Wimbledon. Having humbled Serena Williams in the semi-finals, a victory that reinforced a changing of the guard, Osaka was untroubled by Brady in the clash of power-hitters. She romped to a 21st straight win in completed matches, a streak dating back more than a year. Fans hoping for a repeat

of the pair’s engrossing U.S. Open semi-final last year were left disappointed as Brady froze in the spotlight of her first Slam final. U.S. Open champion Osaka was also short of her best tennis, joining Brady in producing a dour, error-strewn first set. But she settled to clinch six straight games, roaring to a 4-0 lead in the second before serving out the match to love. A big serve sealed it, causing Brady to fire a forehand return long, and Osaka held her racquet over her head, beamed and gave a little leap in an understated celebration. “Tonight I felt like (it) was more of a mental battle,” said Osaka who also won the 2019 title. “Of course, I can’t speak for her, but I was extremely

Khan, Mohammed, Bravo end Jaguars unbeaten run LEG-spinner Imran Khan bagged 5 wickets while Darren Bravo and Jason Mohammed stroked half-centuries each as the Trinidad & Tobago Red Force put a stop to the Guyana Jaguars unbeaten run by 6 wickets in last evening’s tussle at the Coolidge Cricket ground in Antigua. It was the battle of the table-leaders but this time the Jaguars fell short as Trinidad easily gunned down their target of 187, ending on 189-4 in 40.2 overs. The lion’s share of the hunt was divided mostly between Bravo who hit 58 but it was the top-scorer Mohammed who carried his bat to the end as his team completed another resounding win which fortifies their place at the top of the table. Mohammed, who recently captained the West Indies ODI team in Bangladesh, followed up his century from a few games prior, with an ideally important unbeaten knock of 82 with 8 fours off 116 balls. Wicket-keeper Denesh Ramdin assisted duly at the other end with, hitting two fours and one six in 17 not out. Left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie was Guyana’s best bowler with 2-36. Jaguars opener Chan-

drapaul Hemraj made amends for his stop-starts from the previous games, striking the ball at a rate of well over a 100.00, with 6 well-timed sixes and 5 fours. The former West Indies opener top-scored with 87, sadly missing out on a ton but steadied the Jaguars innings but they failed to reach 200 as they were all out in 41.5 overs. Earlier, the Jaguars recorded their first century opening partnership of the tournament after making a slight change to the combination. Wicket-keeper Tevin Imlach looked good in his first match, stroking 38 with 3 fours and a six. His contribution was ideal in support of Hemraj who managed to break the shackles and get to his first milestone of the competition. Sadly, when Imlach fell to left-arm spinner Kharry Pierre (1-23), not much followed after. Hemraj motored on but while in his 80’s he became the first of Khan’s victims, caught behind by wicket-keeper Denesh Ramdin. After removing the Jaguars middle-order stars in skipper Leon Johnson and Anthony Bramble for 3 runs apiece, Shimron Hetmyer fell for 10 and pacer

Nial Smith (1) became the leggy’s 5th scalp of the innings to end with his career best List A figures of 5-32. (Clifton Ross)

nervous. I honestly just told myself before the match, I’m probably not going to play well. “I shouldn’t put that pressure on myself to play perfectly but just go out there and fight for every point.”

EARLY NERVES On a cool and breezy night at Rod Laver Arena, Osaka warmed up with two aces but the fast start fizzled out in a stream of errors from both players. A nervous Brady was especially culpable, spraying 18 unforced errors in the opening set. Both players dropped their serve before Brady breathed some life into the contest at 4-4, luring Osaka in with a drop-shot then

scrambling forward to retrieve and lob her for break point. Osaka cancelled it nervelessly with an imperious forehand winner, fired from the baseline, and hung tight until Brady gifted her the lead. Serving to stay in the set at 5-4, Brady slapped a wild forehand over the baseline to cough up set point then stepped in to pound a wouldbe forehand winner straight into the net. The crowd groaned and Brady went to her chair ashen-faced. Osaka seized the momentum, breaking Brady again in the second game of the second set with a sumptuous crosscourt backhand winner. She rolled on to a 4-0 lead before Brady belatedly con-

jured some resistance to break Osaka. The American clawed back to 5-3 but bowed out as she started, smashing wild returns to allow Osaka to serve out the match without trouble. It was a forgettable display from Brady’s racquet but she had a remarkable run in Melbourne, after being one of the 72 players unable to train during their two-week hard quarantine in the lead-up. “I think she’s human like the rest of us in this room,” Brady told reporters of Osaka. “She just brings out her best in the big moments. “But I don’t think, you know, she’s God,” she added with a smile. “I think maybe Serena is. Maybe she’ll get there, I don’t know.”

SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 21, 2021

Vaas appointed Sri Lanka fast-bowling coach for West Indies tour FORMER Sri Lanka seamer Chaminda Vaas has been reappointed the men’s team’s fast-bowling coach for their upcoming tour to the West Indies. He replaces Australian David Saker, who resigned as the fast-bowling coach on Thursday for personal reasons. Vaas previously coached the Sri Lankan team on three occasions, in 2013, 2015, and temporarily in 2017. In-between stints with the national team, he has been a coach within the SLC system, working with bowlers in the academy, as well as the Under-19

Chaminda Vaas is back for his fourth stint with Sri Lanka team following David Saker’s resignation

and Sri Lanka A teams. He has also previously held coaching roles with Ireland and New Zealand. Vaas, Sri Lanka’s most successful fast bowler with 355 Test wickets 400 ODI wickets, has worked extensively with most of the bowlers expected to be in Sri Lanka’s squad for the forthcoming tour. Sri Lanka’s West Indies tour begins in under two weeks, with a threematch T20I series starting on March 4, followed by three ODIs and two Tests. (CRICINFO)

Albion names 26 players for training ahead of T20 C/ships THE Albion Cricket Club has named a 26-man squad to commence training in preparation for the upcoming Speaker’s T20 Cricket Championship. The squad, which includes West Indies cricketers Veerasammy Permaul and Devendra Bishoo, is as follows: Kandasammy Surujnarine, Adrian Sukhwa, Rajiv Ivan, Anthony Bramble, Jonathan Foo, Sharaz Ramcharran, Sarwan Chaitnarine, Jeetendra Outar, Ramesh Kasinauth, Kelvin Umroe, Ritesh Umroe, Gudakesh Motie, Rayaad Karim, Inzam Shazam, Gouraf Ramesh, Mahendra Chaitnarine, Antanio February, Leon Cecil, Devendra Latchman, Shiv Harripersaud, Jousha Harichand, Karan Arjpaul, Tameshwar Mahadeo and Parvesh Ganesh.

All players with the exception of those currently engaged in national duties are asked to attend an important meeting with the Club’s executives tomorrow at the Albion Community Centre’s Main Hall, commencing at 16:30hrs. The squad will commence training from Tuesday. Apart from intense training and practice sessions, the squad will also be engaged in several practice matches prior to the selection of final team. Meanwhile, the proposed structure by the organisers will see 24 First-Division teams divided across four zones. First division clubs for this National T/20 Cricket Competition, shall be a club with generally considered domestic first division size ground and

one (a club) that is currently playing or have recently played first division cricket within their Association/Committee or County and/or such team that may be considered as a CGI Franchise, County team or Association/Committee team which can validate the use of a home ground for the duration of the tournament. The tournament will bowl off next month with the final set for May 5. The competition is expected to have a first prize payout of one million dollars while second prize will pocket $500,000. Third and fourth place will cart off with $200,000 and $100,000 respectively. The Most Valuable Player of the tournament will be awarded one million dollars of a motor car, depending on sponsorship.

India pick uncapped trio for T20 series against England

INDIA have included three uncapped players in their 19-man squad for March’s Twenty20 international series against England. Mumbai Indians batsmen Suryakumar Yadav, 30, and Ishan Kishan, 22, plus Haryana leg-spinning all-rounder Rahul Tewatia, 27, have been called up. Bhuvneshwar Kumar returns, with fellow seamer Jasprit Bumrah rested. The five-match series will be played at the Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad, March 12-20. Yadav averaged 40 in last year’s Indian Premier League (IPL), making four fifties with a highest of 79 not out. Former India Under-19 captain Kishan also recorded four fifties and averaged 57 with a top score of 99, before firing 11 sixes and 19 fours in a remarkable 173 off just 94 balls for Jharkhand. in the Vijay Hazare Trophy against Madhya Pradesh in Indore on

Saturday. Last September, Tewatia equalled Chris Gayle’s record for the most sixes in one over of an IPL match, hitting five off the bowling of Sheldon Cottrell against Kings XI Punjab.

of 56. India’s T20I squad: Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma (vice-captain), KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant (wkp.), Ishan Kishan

Ishan Kishan made 173 inside 28 overs in a 50-over match, on the day the India squad was announced

Attacking wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, 23, who was dropped for the limited-overs leg of the Australia tour, returned to the squad after impressing in the opening two Test matches with an average

(wkp.), Yuzvendra Chahal, Varun Chakravarthy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Rahul Tewatia, T. Natarajan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Navdeep Saini, Shardul Thakur. (BBC Sport)

SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 21, 2021

Ahmad happy normalcy, democracy will return to cricket By Rajiv Bisnauth

ALLEGATIONS of poor management in the administration of cricket locally have provided one of the ongoing dramas for close to a decade. However, the situation may soon come to a halt this Friday as elections for a legitimate Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) will be staged at a venue and time to be announced. Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, has set February 26 as the date for the long-awaited election of the new executive of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB). To this end, former president of the Essequibo Cricket Board (ECB), Sheik Ahmad, in an invited comment yesterday said he is pleased at the new development, since some form of normalcy

and democracy will return to the game locally.

all stakeholders, who have fought tirelessly over a de-

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr

Former president of Essequibo Cricket Board, Sheik Ahmad

“While I am happy to see normalcy and democracy return to cricket, I must applaud the initiative by the subject minister and

cade to get this semblance of order to our cricket,” Ahmad stated. Ahmad, who had served as treasurer on the GCB and

as alternate director on the West Indies Cricket Board, now Cricket West Indies (CWI), urged the Essequibo Cricket Board (ECB) to stand up and be a part of the elections. He further urged the ECB to be a part of the new GCB and its developmental plans, so that cricket can improve both at the county and national levels. The experienced cricket administrator is of the opinion that retired cricketers must play an integral role in the new leadership. Meanwhile, president of the Demerara Cricket Board (DCB), Bissoondyal Singh, said the minister’s announcement is a breath of fresh air for all the aspiring cricketers of Guyana. “I must commend the Honourable Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, for ag-

gressively pursuing this matter to bring an end to the illegality and illegitimacy that clouded Guyana’s cricket. “When history is written this minister must be properly placed as one who has contributed to our dear land as it relates to the development of cricket … never again should we have a national institution seized by a few and (who) lock out the people of this country. It must be a breath of fresh air for all the aspiring cricketers of Guyana,” Singh, who is also president of the East Coast Cricket Board (ECCB), said. The minister’s move stems from consultations with CWI, pursuant to the requirements of the Guyana Cricket Administration Act and on the heels of the DCB elections held last Friday. Attorney-at-Law Kamal

Ramkarran was appointed the new Cricket Ombudsman. Ramkarran, who has served as president of the Bar Association of Guyana in the past replaces Stephen Lewis, who had been appointed by then Minister with responsibility for Sport, George Norton. Further the Cricket Ombudsman will hereinafter advise the next steps in accordance with the Guyana Cricket Administration Act. Apart from administrative failure, GCB has been embroiled in controversy from one court battle to the next for nearly a decade now. Elections have not been held since 2012 and only last month the persons holding themselves as executive members of the body were deemed illegal by the Guyana government.

More opportunities for regional footbsll clubs

Captain Rovman Powell gathers runs through the off side during his 29 (Photo courtesy CWI Media)

Jamaica Scorpions sneak first Super50 win against Leewards A LAST-WICKET stand of 85 between man-of-the-match Jeavor Royal and Fabian Allen paved the way for Jamaica Scorpions close six-run win by Duckworth/Lewis over the Leeward Islands Hurricanes earlier yesterday. It was the first win for the Jamaicans who have already been eliminated from the final four and came in the unlikeliest of manners. Put in to bat, Jamaica were looking likely to lose their fourth game in a row at 135 for 9 as Quinton Boatswain (235), Ashmead Nedd (3-23) and Terance Ward (2-54) scythed through the fragile Jamaican batting. Only Paul Palmer (23) and Rovman Powell (29) posed any resistance to the Leewards’ bowling until Royal and Allen came together mounting an 85-run 10th wicket partnership that took Jamaica to 220 all out. Allen scored 44 from 42 balls with three sixes and three fours before he was last man out. Royal remained unbeaten on 38 from 40 balls from which he got two sixes and two fours. Chasing a modest 221, Leewards were 72 for 3 when Nitish Kumar and Devon Thomas looked to steer the team towards victory with a fourth-wicket stand of 64 when Jamie Merchant, who took 3-44, dismissed Kumar for 51. Thomas eventually fell for 44 as Leewards stumbled to 152 for 6, needing a further 69 from the remaining 71 balls. Colin Archibald and Terance Ward held up the Jamaicans with an eighth-wicket stand of 27 but then the weather intervened shortly after Rovman Powell got Archibald for 18. Royal, who took the wickets of Kieran Powell for 17 and Kacey Carty for 13, returned 2-31 to complete his man-ofthe-match performance.

CARIBBEAN Football Union (CFU) president Randy Harris says that the revamped Caribbean Club Championship could see an increase in qualifying spots for some countries as CONCACAF moves towards implementing its new CONCACAF Champions League (CCL) competition format. The regional governing body announced on February 4 that the CCL will be expanded to 50 teams, including 10 teams from the Caribbean competing in the group stage in 2023. As a consequence of the new structure, the current version of Caribbean Club Championship, which has been used as the qualifier for regional tournaments, will be retired in 2022 and a new cup competition launched to determine the qualifying teams, in addition to results from the domestic leagues. Harbour View Football Club president Carvel Stewart and Jamaica Football Federation Technical Committee Chairman Rudolph Speid had recently

indicated a desire to see Jamaica’s qualifying spots increase from the expansion. Harris said that while the CFU is committed to having as equitable a tournament as possible, he anticipated increases in spots allocated to member nations with professional leagues. “(For) the allocation, we will try to get (it) as balanced as possible, but I would say while there is no confirmation (yet), those member countries that already have professional leagues will perhaps have a better opportunity to have more than one club representation in the competition, but there are no firm regulations so far, although we will hear more about it in a couple of weeks,” Harris told The Gleaner. The expansion of the CCL will also mean the end of the Caribbean Club Shield, which has been used to allocate more Caribbean teams for regional competitions, and the CONCACAF League, which was used to determine CCL places.

Both tournaments will end in 2022. Harris said that the expansion was the next step to improving the standard of regional club football.

CFU president Randy Harris

“Now they (CONCACAF) have gone a step further to expose more clubs and more players, and I believe that this time period can be a (benefit) for more professional clubs in the Caribbean since it offers more opportunities,” Harris said. Waterhouse FC president Donovan White said that the step taken by 12:45 hrs I Like To Move It

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CONCACAF means that the Caribbean must take the necessary steps in improving locally, to take advantage of the new competition format. “It’s also a very ambitious move that will require some amount of capacity-building by clubs across the region,” White said. “They (CONCACAF) have identified four countries that have a solid leg to stand on, which are Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Haiti, and Trinidad and Tobago, because of the structure of the top-flight football professionally. So, Jamaica is in a good position.” The new structure guarantees a Caribbean team qualifying for the knockout phase of the tournament, and CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani said that the new Caribbean championship would provide “great matchups between rival clubs and further drive development of the club game within the respective regions.” (Jamaica Gleaner)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 21, 2021

Golden Jaguars/Soca Warriors World Cup qualifier to be played on ‘neutral territory’ … T&T Government gives FIFA/TTFA request Red Card

THE Golden Jaguars’ March 25 clash with Trinidad and Tobago, which was scheduled to be played in the Twin Island Republic, will have to be played in another territory after the country’s Ministry of Health’s chief medical officer (CMO) Dr Roshan Parasram ruled that a proposal by the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) fell short of local COVID-19 regulations. The decision, according to leading online sports news outlet, www.wired868.com, will see Trinidad and Tobago Men’s National Senior Team concede home advantage in a World Cup qualifying campaign for the first time in 36 years. At the Ministry of Health’s virtual press conference yesterday, Minister of Sport and Community Development, Shamfa Cudjoe delivered the bad news to TTFA, which is now headed by FIFA-appointed normalisation committee chairman Robert Hadad. “One, bring the players

in time so they can quarantine and play their game,” said Cudjoe, “two, set the date to a later time to allow the players to come in and properly quarantine; three, play the game on a neutral ground within the Caribbean and the Americas. Those are the three options being offered at this point in time.” FIFA mandates clubs to release players at a maximum of five days before a World Cup qualifier, while TTFA has no control over the date of the qualifying games. It means Hadad only realistically has the third option available. FIFA permits countries to use neutral venues if they cannot play at home for a variety of reasons - a rule that existed since the last millennium. And Cudjoe’s own investigations found that more than a half dozen Caribbean countries had already conceded home advantage. “Barbados are playing in the Dominican Republic, Anguilla are playing in Tampa and then the Dominican

Republic,” said the minister of sport and community development, “Antigua and

FLASHBACK! Action between Guyana’s Neil Danns (#16) and Kevan Leon George of Trinidad and Tobago in a Group D match of CONCACAF Gold Cup on June 26, 2019 in Children Mercy in Kansas City, Kansas (Photo compliments: CONCACAF)

(Barbuda) and Montserrat are playing in the US Virgin Islands, St Vincent and the Grenadines are playing in Curaçao. Suriname are playing in the Dominican

Everton end 22-year wait for win at Liverpool EVERTON produced an outstanding Merseyside derby performance to beat Liverpool at Anfield for the first time since 1999. In a landmark result for both sides, Everton earned their first derby win anywhere since 2010, while Liverpool have now lost four successive home matches for the first time since 1923.Everton finally rid themselves of their Anfield bogey with a brilliantly drilled performance in which goalkeeper Jordan Pickford and Michael Keane were excellent, while Rich-

arlison led the line tirelessly. Richarlison put Everton in front after three minutes when he latched on to a super pass from James Rodriguez to beat Allison. Liverpool responded and Pickford saved well from Jordan Henderson, who went off injured in the first half, while Everton captain Seamus Coleman should have added to Richarlison’s strike only to head straight at Alisson from six yards. Sadio Mane wasted two headed chances for Liverpool in the second half while

Republic.” The TTFA requested two persons per room at the Home

Pickford saved superbly from Salah, leaving Everton to wrap up their first derby win in 24 attempts when substitute Gylfi Sigurdsson scored from the spot with seven minutes left after Dominic Calvert-Lewin tangled with Trent Alexander-Arnold. Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti was all smiles at the final whistle but this was more abject Anfield misery for his Liverpool counterpart Jurgen Klopp, as his team’s flimsy Premier League title defence crumbles. (BBC Sport)

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ANSWERS ANSWER S IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

of Football in Couva. Cudjoe said Dr Parasram was very troubled by that. So would FIFA; and everyone else with any passing knowledge of the novel coronavirus.

FIFA’s own ‘Return to Football - International Match Protocol’, which was published on September 29 2020 and freely available online, states: ‘Each individual must have his own hotel room.’ It is the most basic of COVID-19 provisions and is followed by Trinidad and Tobago cricket teams, as well as other travelling sport teams. TTFA not only hoped to subject its own players to that rule but the visiting teams too. It was a non-starter and far from the only discrepancy in the doomed pitch by the Hadad-led body, which also failed to highlight several key aspects of its bubble such as accommodation for reserve match officials, at least three hygiene implementation officers, room sizes, and safeguards for employees - such as drivers and cleaners - involved in the affair. Cudjoe confirmed that the TTFA submitted its substandard proposal for exemptions on February 2, 2021. Howev-

er, the World Cup qualifying draw was made on December 4, 2020. As Cudjoe confirmed, many of the other Caribbean FAs booked alternative grounds - even as TTFA urged Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley to force the CMO to accept their inadequate proposal. The Golden Jaguars were drawn in Group F of the Qualifier alongside Trinidad and Tobago, The Bahamas, Puerto Rico and St Kitts & Nevis. After their clash with the ‘Trinis’, Golden Jaguars will return home to roar against The Bahamas on Tuesday, March 30. On Friday, June 4, Guyana will travel to St Kitts & Nevis for their third game and then host Puerto Rico on Tuesday, June 8. Guyana last faced Trinidad and Tobago during the 2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup, where, despite a beautiful goal scored by Neil Danns, the two sides ended the match with a 1-1 draw.

GFF president pleads with Government to stop unsanctioned Buxton football tournament

ALL members, players, coaches, match officials and clubs that fall under the umbrella of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) are constitutionally obliged to abstain from unauthorised football events, both for the long-term benefit of football development and the safety and wellbeing of the football community, according the Federation’s president, Wayne Forde. Forde was speaking after the GFF would’ve suspended five National players (Trayon Bobb, Kelsey Benjamin, Nicholas McArthur, Kevin Dundas and Sese Norville) for their participation at an unsanctioned Football tournament in Buxton. The GFF boss asked that all legitimate stakeholders – from the GFF community to the Government of Guyana – to take a “firm collective stand and act swiftly now to nip these unauthorised activities in the bud.” Forde believes that the current climate, with the COVID-19 pandemic ongoing and lockdown rules still in force, any such unsanctioned events should be boycotted by the public and handled appropriately according to the law. “We have been extremely concerned and alarmed to hear several reports of top national players and registered match officials participating in a specific unauthorised football competition in Buxton, alongside images of large crowds convening at the community ground at night to watch,” Forde said.

“It’s a beggars belief that anyone would put the health of players, match officials and the public at risk at this delicate time, and that this should apparently go completely unchecked by the national authorities and the local police,” Forde noted, while urging the National COVID-19 Task Force and Government of Guyana to intervene in the interests of public health.

GFF president Wayne Forde

“Separately, we expect our national team players and registered referees to act as role models and lead by example, both by making responsible decisions for themselves and their loved ones during this health crisis and by following the rules of the GFF Constitution that they are bound by. The behaviours of some of our national players is even more baffling given that the Golden Jaguars are current-

ly preparing for FIFA World Cup qualifiers next month.” Match officials Dwayne Johnson, Deon Feasall and Roydon Ramsay, along with Coaches Dwayne Jacobs, Philbert Moffatt, Sharon Abrams and Sherwin Neblett were also suspended for their role in the tournament at the Buxton Community Centre Ground. Forde said if the GFF does not act to defend its Constitution to avoid a state of lawlessness resulting from unregulated football, “the Federation’s compliance with FIFA and Concacaf statutes will be threatened, possibly resulting in Guyana’s suspension from football governance structures, international football competitions and funding for football development projects…This is what is at stake.” Apart ensuring the safety of players, spectators and officials, the GFF said their role is to also reduce the potential for money laundering, illegal gambling and other illicit financial activities; ensure that all conflicts, sporting and otherwise, arising from a competition are adjudicated through the GFF’s FIFA-approved constitutional processes. “Without these structures in place, we risk enabling a lawless free-for-all that will not only jeopardize the sustainable development of the game and our young talent, but also open the door to criminal elements and match fixing,” Forde highlighted.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 21, 2021

‘I will extend an olive branch to all’ - says new DCB president By Rajiv Bisnauth

DESPITE not being represented at last Friday’s Demerara Cricket Board (DCB) elections, newly-elected DCB president, Bissoondyal Singh, said the board will actively engage both the East Bank Cricket Association (EBCA) and the West Demerara Cricket Association (WDCA), with the view of working together for the development of the game not only in Demerara but also nationally. Delegates from Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA), East Coast Cricket Board (ECCB) and Upper Demerara Cricket Association (UDCA) were present on Friday. “It (the absence of the

two associations) is a concern, we will actively engage them. We are extending an olive branch. We don’t need to have a confrontation with anyone, but it is time for us to work together and fix this thing. It is too long,” Singh said The businessman added, “Let’s work together and fix it. If you have an interest in cricket and not personalities, let’s put that aside and let’s fix the cricket. Let’s hear what is your problem and I will tell you how I think it can be solved. Nothing can be done without conversation, let the conversation be done and we work aggressively to fix it.” Meanwhile, Singh indicated that the Executive Committee would have to assess the resources they

have at the moment to know what plans they can implement. “We have to see what is the infrastructure in place and what are the financial resources and we will sit with members of the board and put our committees together. Once I get to meet with everybody, we (will) have a programme that is not isolated in Demerara alone, it is a waste of time. It has to be a national project and we will share it with Minister Charles Ramson Jr and see if we can get his help to move forward with Guyana’s cricke,t, he stressed. Singh, who is also the president of the ECCB, added “We would also like to pursue a National Cricket College, a satellite

academy across Guyana. This college will fix the bridge between academics and sports. We will have to engage all schools, clubs and associations, as school cricket has to be fixed

just as inter-house and inter-zone cricket. This will have to be done in collaboration with the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU), the ministry and the cricket board.”

Newly-elected DCB president, Bissoondyal Singh

The election was scheduled after the Full Court quashed an application that was made by Anand Sanasie, president of the WDCA, to prevent the holding of a free and fair election of Executive Members for the DCB. In light of the unanimous decision by the Full Court last Wednesday to disallow Sanasie’s application to further stymie the process, the election went ahead unhindered under the supervision of the Court. The decisions were part of the ruling made by Justice Navindra Singh on the matter. The DCB election was first made possible following the restoration of the Cricket Administration Act to its original condition last September.

Ambrose fails in bid for At least 30 cyclists line up for Forbes England pace bowling coach job Burnham Memorial road race today

West Indies fast bowling legend, Curtly Ambrose

WEST Indies fast bowling legend, Curtly Ambrose, has not been selected for the position of England Cricket Board (ECB) elite pace-bowling coach, despite making the shortlist of candidates interviewed. The ECB had put out an advertisement for three vacant positions - pace-bowling coach, spin-bowling coach and batting coach - in December. Interviews were conducted in recent weeks after applications closed last month. Ambrose, who made known that he had applied for the post a few weeks ago, revealed that he had been contacted but unfortunately was not selected for the post. “I got a call from one of the panellists yesterday (Thursday) to inform me that I was unsuccessful in my bid. The interview went very well. There were four panellists and everything went according to plan and I thought I did a wonderful job, so I was pretty excited. I thought I probably would have made it but I am not going to really worry too much about it. To have made the shortlist is a step in the right direction obviously,” Ambrose told the Antigua Observer. With the Ashes on the horizon, Ambrose, who has taken 128 wickets against Australia (fourth-best all-time, with the best economy rate among the top 5), admits that he was hoping that his previously dominant performances down under might have weighed in his favour. “I was expecting to be part of the squad considering the World T20 coming up and, of course, the Ashes. You know that when England play Australia in the Ashes, it’s a big one and I thought that maybe because of my tremendous success in Australia that it would have, at least, given me an extra step, but it didn’t work out and I am quite happy with how everything went. In life, we get some good news and some not so good, and you learn to accept it and move on,” he said. The 57-year-old previously worked as West Indies bowling consultant between 2014 and 2016. He was replaced by Roddy Estwick. (Sportsmax)

Cyclists are seen battling during the East Coast leg of the event last year

AT least 30 cyclists are expected to pedal off today when the annual Forbes Burnham Cycling Memorial Road Race is held this morning. The event, which is the first for the cycling fraternity for 2021, was given permission last week by the National Task Force, but under strict protocols. This includes having the event run off between the hours of 07:00hrs and 10:00hrs and having only cyclists and event coordinators at the location. In a correspondence from the National COVID-19 Task Force Secretariat to the Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF) it was stated that “adherence to all other COVID-19 emergency measures are mandatory”. The event is sponsored by the Forbes Burnham Foundation and supervised by the Flying Stars Cycling

Club. Club member William Howard told Chronicle Sport yesterday afternoon cyclists have registered for all three categories: - Open, Veterans and Juniors. He said that the race is scheduled to start at 07:00hrs. Cyclists will be journeying from Carifesta Avenue to Belfield on the East Coast of Demerara then back to the starting venue - an almost 35-mile journey. The event is normally a multi-leg race. In 2020, Team Evolution’s Marlon Williams won the two-leg event. Although he had placed first in the Linden to Georgetown race, he had to settle for sixth in the Carifesta Avenue to Belfield-and-back leg. That leg was won by his club-mate Christopher Griffith, followed by Andrew Hicks and Marcus Keiler.

unsanctioned tournament By Rawle Toney NATIONAL players Trayon Bobb, Kelsey Benjamin, Nicholas McArthur, Kevin Dundas and Sese Norville were yesterday provisionally suspended by Guyana Football Federation (GFF), pending an investigation by the Federation’s Disciplinary Committee, following their involvement in the ongoing football tournament in Buxton, which has not been sanctioned by the local body with the responsibility to govern the ‘beautiful game’. The five players are currently in training with the rest of the shortlisted locally based players for Guyana’s upcoming engagement against Trinidad and Tobago, in the Qatar World Cup Qualifying tournament. Match officials Dwayne Johnson, a former FIFA referee Deon Feasall and Roydon Ramsay, along with coaches Dwayne Jacobs, Philbert Moffatt, Sharon Abrams and Sherwin Neblett were also suspended for their role in the tournament at the Buxton Community Centre ground. According to GFF, the aforementioned individuals “will be unable to participate in any international or club football until the resolution of Disciplinary Committee proceedings and could face further disciplinary action. They will be notified of the venue, date and time of their separate hearings in due course.” The GFF said “further investigations into the participation of other individuals are ongoing and may result in similar disciplinary action in due course.” “To defend the integrity of the game and protect the safety and wellbeing of its membership, the GFF Constitution – approved by FIFA – contains specific clauses related to unauthorised football activity,” the GFF said in a statement. McArthur was only recently given a full scholarship to attend Chicago State University ahead of their National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division One season, while Benjamin and Ryan Hackett will head off to Canada in April

for a tryout with Canadian Premier League (CPL) club, Valour FC. GFF Communications Officer, Keeran Williams, said it is usual protocol for GFF to give their blessings or support for anyone who has been sanctioned by the Disciplinary Committee and is serving a suspension for any infraction of their rules. While McArthur’s move to the US is for school and shouldn’t be affected, in the case of Benjamin, the GFF Communications Officer said it is their hope that all matters will be addressed by the Disciplinary Committee before his departure to Canada in April.On February 3, the Wayne Forde-led Federation had publicly urged all affiliated players, match officials and coaches to abide by their constitutional regulations at all times in the interests of the entire football community. At the time of signalling the warning, Forde stated that “any breach of GFF regulations, including participation in unsanctioned events, will be investigated and could result in suspension. Any suspected breach of national COVID-19 rules will be reported to the authorities.” GFF said regulations, under its constitution, are in place to protect the interests and welfare of players, match officials and coaches, and to safeguard the future development, good governance and orderly organisation of football. Under FIFA’s global structure of football governance and its constitution, GFF controls football in all its forms in Guyana.

Trayon Bobb

Kelsey Benjamin

Open tennis crown SEE PAGE 35

Japan’s Naomi Osaka gives an interview as she celebrates with the trophy after winning the Australian Open against Jennifer Brady of the U.S, yesterday (REUTERS/Loren Elliott)

SEE PAGE 35

Red Force Leg-spinner Imran Khan bagged five for 32

Khan, Mohammed, Jaguars ‘I will extend an olive branch to all’ - says new DCB president Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

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| SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2021