Kaieteur News
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Friday June 18, 2021
GCCI calls Harmon’s statement unwarranted and reckless
T
he Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) yesterday in a press release called the statement regarding ‘fake vaccines’ made by the Leader of the Opposition,
Joseph Harmon, unwarranted and reckless. In the release also, the GCCI stated that it remains supportive of the Government of Guyana vaccination drive and noted that it would like to take the
opportunity to encourage all Guyanese to go out and be vaccinated at the centres that were set up by the government. It was also mentioned that the GCCI would like to put on public record that it
not only finds the statements regarding ‘fake vaccines’ made by Harmon unwarranted but also not based on fact – especially in light of the current public health situation in Guyana. The GCCI’s statement
further noted the concern regarding the recent posturing by the Chairman of CARICOM, Dr. Keith Rowley, who implied that the vaccines that are being given to Guyanese, are unsafe. The Chambers noted that it finds these efforts by the Leader of the Opposition of Guyana and the Chairman of CARICOM to be utterly reprehensible, callous, and
irresponsible and as such, they condemn these efforts to score cheap political points. Additionally, the GCCI used the opportunity to call on the Government to remain transparent and accountable in all dealings with the ongoing vaccination drive. The statement also noted that the Chambers reiterates (Continued on page 9)
Kaieteur News
Friday June 18, 2021
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Oil companies should be penalised for failing Analyst, to meet local content obligations - Financial Floyd Haynes
F
inancial Analyst, Floyd Haynes, is of the firm conviction that oil companies should face punitive measures for failing to meet local content obligations. The Certified Public A c c o u n t a n t ( C PA ) expressed this viewpoint during his first appearance on Kaieteur Radio’s show, Governance, Corruption and Justice on Tuesday. There, he provided his perspectives on the importance of local content and the role government, oil companies and the citizenry, must play to be successful on this front. During his interview, Haynes explained that he sees local content as a triangle or a three-legged stool where one leg speaks to
the role of the government in enacting the relevant policies and legislation along with systems to measure performance by oil companies. He said that the second leg would refer to the operator or oil companies and their role in information dissemination and making people aware of what is available. The third leg, the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), he said is for the people interested in being part of the sector to ensure they get the requisite skills via training along with the relevant certification. Haynes said the foregoing must work in tandem if the forthcoming local content policy and legislation are to be efficient and effective. In this regard, Haynes
categorically stated that when these local content goals and objectives are not met, the government should be able to punish noncompliant companies. The US-based Chartered Accountant said, “If one side is doing it (alone) then it will not work and of course, all of that has to play alongside an ecosystem that supports that.” Equally crucial for one to bear in mind is that the government cannot enforce legislation if the people are not ready “because what happens is if you aren’t sufficiently trained and the professional development needed is absent? Then it leads to inefficiencies. And if there are inefficiencies on the part of ExxonMobil then we ultimately pay through cost
recovery. So we have to strike that balance.” It was last year that President, Irfaan Ali, had appointed six individuals to a local content panel with the sole aim of producing an exposition on the best provisions for the country’s policy. The members of the panel included Haynes; Trinidadian energy strategist, Anthony Paul; former T&T Energy Minister, Kevin Ramnarine; former Foreign Affairs Minister, Carl Greenidge; former President of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), Shyam Nokta; and trade unionist, Carvil Duncan. Following the submission of its report last year, the Ministry of Natural
US-based Financial Analyst, Floyd Haynes.
Resources produced a draft policy which was subjected to wide consultations that were led by President Ali.
The first session kicked off in February and concluded in March. The final policy is still to be completed.
Drunken man beats neighbour for her birthday A
night of celebration turned violent for Keneshia Shiwsaran, who was beaten about her back with a cutlass by one of her neighbours during her 30th birthday party. The mother of three told Kaieteur News yesterday that on June 15, around 22:30hrs at her Lot 37 Rahaman’s Park residence, her neighbour who she identified as Leon Welcome, came from behind her and lashed her across her back. The woman said on the same day, she and her husband had invited just a few friends for the celebration, the neighbour and his wife were among the invited guests. Later in the evening, the women at the gathering formed a group in a corner where they were conversing with each other. Shiwsaran alleged that Welcome came near them and whispered something in his wife ears then left. Moments after that, he came from an unknown direction with his cutlass and lashed her across her back then escaped in the direction from which he came from. She added that during the attack, her husband had intervened and he too received a cut on one of his hands. According to the woman, prior to this, she and her husband never had any
Keneshia Shiwsaran who was allegedly attacked by her neighbour.
The injuries Shiwsaran received to her back on the night of the attack. grievance with the man and his family, which would cause him to react like that. She said that on the same night, they went to lodge a report at the Ruimveldt Police Station, but officers there told her that she should get a medical form. The injured woman said she left and went to the Georgetown Public Hospital as instructed. There she was examined and then was told that the police would have to uplift the medical. When she returned the next day to the police station, officers there informed her that they will
uplift her medical as it as part of her report. When asked if they are not going to apprehend the man, Shiwsaran claimed that the ranks at the police station told her that they do not have any patrol vehicle to go into the area. The mother of three is pleading with relevant authorities to look into her situation as she is fearful for her life and her family’s wellbeing. She said, the next day after the attack, that same neighbour came and hit on their door with a cutlass and threatened to end her life.
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Friday June 18, 2021
Kaieteur News
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL-TEL: 624-6456 Editor: Sharmain Grainger Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
Joseph Harmon and the Banality of Evil A little over a year ago, veteran journalist Mondale Smith presided over the sending away ceremony of young and vibrant political activist, Marvin Pearce, held at People’s National Congress headquarters. The New York-based Pearce, a passionate supporter of the PNC-led APNU+AFC Coalition was one of the early casualties of the COVID-19 pandemic in America. Last month, Smith himself lost his life to the virus, and the PNC would end up holding a similar ceremony for him as he presided over for Pearce. Both men were young and passionate and bright. The only essential difference between them, outside of location of course, was that Pearce passed away before any vaccine was developed while Smith died, unvaccinated, in the middle of the government of Guyana’s ongoing and comprehensive vaccination drive. Last weekend, another beloved and respected figure, another relatively young man associated with the PNC, Douglas Gittens, Region Ten Vice Chairman, passed away from COVID-19, prompting sobering calls for persons to get vaccinated. Among those making such calls was Leader of the Opposition, Joseph Harmon, who stated: “I take this opportunity to implore all Guyanese to not become complacent and to intensify their efforts in observing all COVID-19 measures and make your best efforts to get vaccinated if you have not yet gotten the vaccine.” In acknowledging Gittens’ cause of death as well as his contribution to the Coalition, Harmon also said, “Douglas passed today as a result of complications from COVID-19. He was a tireless worker and fastidious Vice Chairman who dutifully served the people of Region 10 to his last day. His positive personality and contribution to the advancement of Region 10 will be sorely missed and the void he leaves will be a challenge to fill. The APNU+AFC Coalition will examine ways in which his legacy will be honoured and these will be announced in due course.” Yesterday, Harmon did the dishonourable. At his longest press conference to date, one he later patted himself on the back for both for the duration as well as what he claimed was “providing credible information to the Guyanese people”, Harmon – through the most insidious contortions – likely set back national vaccination efforts irreparably. To be clear, earlier this week, Harmon raised not necessarily illegitimate concerns about the price being paid by Guyana for the Sputnik V vaccine, as well as red flags with the procurement of the shots stemming from a company owned by a member of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) royal family, Sheik Ahmed Dalmook Al Maktoum. Al Maktoum, according to reporting in a Norwegian paper was linked to two convicted fraudsters and his company has been accused of price-gouging vaccines sourced from Russia through the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), the government agency tasked with selling the vaccines overseas. The duty of a Parliamentary opposition was to hold the Executive’s feet to the fire when it comes to issues of public expenditure and the government has defended the expenditure in this case on the basis of both the international scarcity of the vaccines and the urgency considering the pandemic. That having been done, it is for the public to decide whether the expenditure was justified or not – what cannot be called into question is the necessity of vaccination. Yesterday however, perhaps feeling that his raising the issue of due diligence in procurement and the level of expenditure did not gain enough transaction, Harmon raised the spectre of the possibility of fake Sputnik vaccines being in Guyana. His source of concern? A March article by Reuters, based upon a release from the RDIF itself about a batch of 5,775 discovered by Mexican authorities. The article mentioned, as background, that Mexico had imported 200,000 doses of the vaccine a month earlier, a fact that Harmon – who has received his full dosage of the same Sputnik V vaccine – used to link to Guyana’s initial receipt of the same number of vaccines and to question the possibility of fakes here, this
We must cease being takers and become caretakers DEAR EDITOR, There are times when the thoughts that enters one’s head emanating from what has been read, immediately calls for a closer look-see at the classification of primates known as the human species. According to Russel Brand, “How we treat the vulnerable is how we define ourselves as a species,” and United States President, Harry Truman (1884-1972), brings such a truth closer to home in the following quote, “A society will be judged by how it treats its weakest members.” While the recent death of Hosea Ajadai, a 24-yearold mentally ill man did cause some concern, of an equally disturbing nature were the circumstances and conditions that existed prior to his death. Perhaps it would be advantageous, at least from a journalistic standpoint if certain facets of information are omitted, especially those that blatantly confirm our Third World status. On Tuesday morning, the battered body of 56year-old Linden resident, Wa n d a Wi l s o n , w a s discovered in her home by the police. The main suspect in the murder was her son, who was later taken into police custody. Of note is the fact that the then deceased and the suspect were deemed to be both mentally ill. The accused was detained at the
Mackenzie Police Station, where according to the Police Commander of Region 10, Hugh Winter, he was never given a cell since his detention, but remained on the bench for three days. The Commander further claimed that the accused was given food and water. While mention of the latter may be seen as a humane gesture, the overall treatment nevertheless smacks of gross mistreatment and disregard for human rights. Excerpts from The Laws of Guyana-Prison Act. Part IV. 17 (2) states: every person wherever he is confined in any lock-up in which he may lawfully be confined, ………… or under the control of any person in charge of any lock-up shall be deemed to be in legal custody of the person in charge of the lockup. Powers of Detention: Part IV. 20 every person arrested under any writ, warrant or order of any court having civil jurisdiction shall be brought without delay before the court by which the writ, warrant or order was issued or made… What was his status as he sat on the bench? What hindered him from being given a cell? What were the charges? It is claimed that he was assisting in the investigation. Were there other suspects? Currently in Guyana, the law clearly states
despite that the fake batch, found on a private plane en route to Guatemala, had no connection to any official vaccine programme in Mexico and was so terribly produced that the fraud was clear from the packaging alone. In short, Harmon used a three-month-old article about fake vaccines in Mexico, completely unconnected to the company from which Guyana procured the very vaccines that Harmon himself is immunized with, to call for a halt in the use of Sputnik V vaccines. As if to remove all doubt about his intention, Harmon’s Official Facebook page posted a summary of the press conference preening that “Mr. Harmon also noted that a batch of 200,000 fake Sputnik V vaccines was discovered in Mexico. Mr. Harmon said that until the PPP can provide credible assurances that the vaccines are authentic, their use should be suspended.” What Joseph Harmon was casually engaged in yesterday was deliberate misinformation on a critical public health measure designed to mitigate the impact of a deadly and continuing global pandemic. Harmon, who enjoys – as Opposition Leader – a generous remuneration from the state has essentially sent out a signal to his supporters, the majority of whom are working class and thus far more economically and epidemiologically vulnerable to both COVID infection than he us. Political scientist, Hannah Arrendt, in observing the trial of former Nazi senior official Adolf Eichmann, noted how ordinary, how bland, Eichmann was in justifying and rationalizing his role in the atrocities of the Third Reich. No doubt Harmon yesterday felt that his misinformation was just par for the course of politics, and that the potential fatal consequences, ones that would overwhelmingly affect those that have entrusted him with political power and thus look to him for guidance, were acceptable. And of course, we can presume he has either has the tacit
that the police can arrest and/ or detain a person for 72 hours and thereafter that person shall be released or taken before a court. Did those sworn to serve and protect run afoul of the law and totally disregarded the stipulated 72 hours? He was provided with victuals, but no reference made as to how his other needs were met. How did he sleep, perform his ADL’s, etc.? Detention of Persons. Part IV. 18 The persons in charge of prisons and lockups are hereby authorise and require to keep and detail all persons duly committed to their custody according to the terms of any court, warrant or order. Laws are not made with only the lawless in mind, so why are the laws in place being transgressed and trampled with impunity, by those who are mandated to enforce the law? Both mother and son were known to be suffering from mental illness, and one wonders if any consideration was given to this fact during the locking up of the victim. The Laws of Guyana Prisons Act, Persons of unsound mind. Part IV. 24 states: Whenever a prisoner or a person detained in a prison or lock-up appears to the Minister on the certificate of a government Medical Officer to be of unsound mind, the Minister may direct his removal to the Mental Hospital to be kept
and treated as if such person had been detained in the Mental Hospital under the Mental Hospital Ordinance. According to police, on Friday last the accused complained of feeling unwell while sitting on the bench, and was taken to the Linden Hospital Complex where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Such a statement augments further concerns regarding care given while in custody. It is obvious that the hapless individual must have experienced a medical crisis, prior to arriving at the hospital. Was the accused observed, if so, how often? What did the observations reveal? Are the observation records available? Was medical intervention requested? If so, by whom, and at what stage of his detention and subsequent passing? There still remain a multitude of unanswered questions, especially those surrounding detention, the rights of citizens, basic standard of treatment of citizens, conduct of law enforcement officers and abuse of the law. While the autopsy may provide causal factor(s) of death, nevertheless what to the world has been shown is the treatment a nation dishes out to its own. Aleuta continua – The struggle continues. Yours faithfully Y. Sam
support of – if he has not has been directly instructed by – his leader in hiding, David Granger, who himself has received full vaccination and enjoys tremendous economic and other support from the state, including healthcare benefits. Late last evening, after hours of being lambasted on social media for his misinformation and hypocrisy, and after round condemnation by President Irfaan Ali, the Opposition Leader sent out a press release restating many of his positions on the procurement process of Sputnik. Absent from the release was any further claim of fake vaccines, a no doubt last-ditch effort to switch the narrative and save face. The damage has already been done, however – on his post with the lie that 200,000 (not the actual figure of about 3 percent of that number) fake vaccines were found in Mexico, many supporters commenting used the post to justify not taking that or any other vaccine or not going back for a second dose. A year ago, Granger, Harmon and the rest of the leadership of the APNU+AFC coalition sought – with inflated numbers, deliberate lies, and a Russia conspiracy perpetuated with shameless zeal – to undermine the foundations of the democratic will of the people of this country, a campaign that was insidious enough in itself. Now, with the same strategy, they are seeking to undermine good-sense, urgent public health measures in the middle of the most impactful pandemic in human history, even as they continue to hold ceremonies in honour of the COVID-19 victims who were close to them. If Harmon and the political machinery under his and his leader’s control truly want to honour the life and work of persons like Pearce, Smith and Gittens, they need to begin by adopting some sense of decency and integrity on, if nothing else, the fight against COVID-19. Otherwise, this is without a doubt classifiable as what Hannah Arrendt observed and titled the banality of evil.
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Kaieteur News
Setting the record straight on Kissoon’s errors and lack of truth DEAR EDITOR, Freddie Kissoon’s June 16, 2021 column, captioned: “The theory of Granger’s hegemony is an academic fraud” once again forces me to seek your tolerance in permitting my response. Kissoon premises his thesis on the contention that Granger alone is not responsible for his actions and for the APNU+AFC coalition losing power. He asserts that it was the “depraved political culture of the AFC and the WPA” that led to Granger’s hegemonic leadership of the coalition and government. I will not attempt to speak for the AFC since
doing so is their responsibility. From my standpoint and that of the WPA’s we reject Kissoon’s opportunistic and selfserving approach to this issue of governance and coalition management, in short leadership. I accept the contention by some critics of the WPA when objectively made; that the WPA’s presence in the APNU and the coalition government means it must share collective responsibility for the success and failures of the government. But to stretch this as Kissoon does to imply that the WPA is responsible for Granger and his party’s
behaviour is erroneous and lacking in objectivity. And to remove Granger and the PNC/ R for responsibility for their political conduct and shifting it to coalition partners is opportunistic. I will state some areas of agreement with Freddie Kissoon in an effort to keep the discourse objective and rational. He wrote, “The PNC could not have retained the five seats it lost in 2006 elections if the PNC was not seen as a changing party that has as its partner, the WPA.” He continues, “The PNC could not have won the government in 2011 if it had run as the PNC and not under
There has to be a Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee DEAR EDITOR, Both SN and KN reported on June 16 of the removal of David Patterson as chair of the parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC). Without revisiting what Mr. Patterson did, or who did worse before him, I think it is a step in the right direction, despite the pain. We must make a start somewhere to instil confidence in Guyanese that their business and related spending are conducted in an impeccable manner in the trenches and overseen by people in parliament, who are immaculate in reputation. Now trouble brews, and I must venture into dark, sinister waters. There has to be a replacement chair of the PAC. It is a foregone conclusion that, if the PPP has its way, he or she will be a party selectee. A particular one among those votes supporting Mr. Patterson’s removal comes to mind. He is ambitious, well positioned and has earned a reputation already for being a bargainer. It is a strong position from which to lobby. Or to listen. His name gives the PPP wisenheimers cover to claim that it is a neutral
process and result. Whether it is the man I have in mind, or some other, my apprehensions persist strongly, for I have grave misgivings about where all of this is heading. This is what the horizon looks like as visualised and as reinforced by reality in our governance environment, democratic to be sure. The PPP decides on the projects. PPP public servant saints spend the billions. PPP leaning auditors (tells of my trust or cynicism level) review the billions expended and whether there was value for money, robust systems of oversight, documentation, and accountability, among other priority issues. And then, there could be the high probability of a PPP controlled PAC and chair in parliament to put a rubberstamp on all the proceedings from before. I will say here and now that this is a fine state of affairs in this democracy. Now, other citizens may have high regard for the immaculacy of the Presidency and Vice Presidency, as currently embodied. The noble intentions, the steadfast determination to deal with the people’s
business fairly and represent them cleanly. And as much as I both salute and scorn such blind trusting charity, I regret that I am unable to summon any such generosity. Even though I am willing to do so, both officeholders have not persuaded through the power of deeds that match their well-prepared smoky, silky words. To put this differently, truth and values are alien in meaning and association with both, and almost the whole kit and caboodle of them. Show me a dozen honest PPP government operators, and I will show Guyana two dozen winning Powerball tickets. But this is a country where from national leaders to ordinary citizens hold their cards close to the chest: none has winning ones to bear. I sense that we are in trouble, billions of dollars in them. It is Guyana’s witching hour, a Black Swan governance event. Yours truly, GHK Lall
the banner of the APNU. The PNC could not have regained elected office it lost in 1992 if Indians did not vote for the AFC in a coalition with the PNC.” (I will add the vote of Kissoon and his active campaigning for the coalition.) On the above observations, I agree with Kissoon. He writes, “What happened then is that after victory, the coalition stood on a falcon which its engineering soundness did not depend on the PNC alone.” Here again, I concur. However, Kissoon as he moves his thesis along enters a slippery slope, losing his objectivity and in doing so departs into the wilderness of conjecture and speculation. None of the persons he cited and their writings on the 2020 elections had in any way influenced the WPA’s assessment of Granger’s management of the coalition and government. Our position on this matter predates the elections. In short, we came to our
conclusion based on our engagement and experiences in the APNU before the elections and very early in the coalition government. For example, when Granger decided to end the Walter Rodney COI without consulting the WPA. In exiting the “promised land of truth and objectivity,” Kissoon returned to his old self: of twisting reality to suit his dishonest analysis. Having moved from his comfort zone (AFC internal affairs) of narration of the AFC politics in addressing Granger’s hegemony, he then struggles to similarly indict the WPA. He contends, “While the AFC was essentially driven by the temptation of power, the WPA’s role in nurturing Granger’s ambitions was ideological. All the African leaders in the WPA saw the 2015 dispensation as African entitlement. They supported Granger’s role.” This is far from the truth and Freddie can’t speak for African
leaders in the WPA. He continues, “The two Indians, Rupert Roopnaraine and Moses Bhagwan, had different motives. Roopnaraine was traditionally close to the PNC preserving the loyalty his mother had for Forbes Burnham. Bhagwan was glad that the PPP was defeated (as Kissoon was in his public statements) and supported the post-2015 outfit because of hatred for the PPP. Granger’s hegemony then was not a play for power. It grew out of the depraved culture of the AFC and WPA.” Kissoon’s claim that Roopnaraine was traditionally close to the PNC is false and has not been substantiated by any credible evidence. Whether or not it is correct that Roopnaraine’s parents had close relations with Burnham has to be seen in the context that Roopnaraine’s father was a senior member of the PPP before the split between (Continued on page 6)
The state of animal welfare in Guyana DEAR EDITOR, I, Rae Bobb, am calling on the Government of Guyana, President, Irfaan Ali, the Guyana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the Veterinary Board of Guyana and the Humane Society International on behalf of the animal welfare activists of Guyana. We are in urgent need of trained veterinarians who can provide medical care for animals, particularly surgical sterilisation (spray and neuter) of domesticated animals. Presently, there are countless animals in need of medical care who are suffering due to the lack of
access to affordable resources and veterinary care. There are also many freeroaming animals that would benefit from access to lowcost sterilisation which would help to reduce the stray population. This issue has been a roadblock in my work as an animal activist, with the number of animals as well as the cost for providing care steadily increasing. I am pleading with the Government of Guyana to provide access to training and certification for Guyanese
veterinarians. If there are no willing and qualified veterinarians to be trained, explore the avenue of bringing international veterinarians to Guyana who are specialised in this field. There are many gaps yet to be filled to ensure the safety and wellbeing of every animal in Guyana, but I believe we can start by providing affordable and accessible veterinary care. Rae Bobb, Animal Rights Activist, Guyana
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Friday June 18, 2021
Kaieteur News
Ivermectin remains a suitable alternative to the vaccine for COVID-19 DEAR EDITOR, This is a direct response to a letter in Stabroek News of June 13, 2021, entitled “Ivermectin is an unproven drug not to be used for treatment of COVID-19” by Dr. Jacquelyn Jhingree, PhD. This letter is such an affront to sense and basic logic; it forces me to pen this letter. The letter begins by outlining some knowledge of the use of Ivermectin in South America and posits that Ivermectin is used in desperation. The article then directly attacks a metaanalysis of over 56 clinical trials showing the effectiveness of Ivermectin against COVID-19. With direct emphasis being placed on the weakness of “metaanalyses” as a type of study. I find this overview to be very emaciated and shows complete lack of knowledge of the scope of acceptance by some, on the effectiveness of Ivermectin. First of all, Ivermectin is a 40-year old, Nobel Prize winning drug. It has specifically seen its service as an anti-parasitic drug in this 40-year period. It has been proven to be safe with little side effects and almost nonexistent severe side effects. It is understood that Ivermectin has anti-viral properties, an effect that has been studied and replicated in many studies. As it relates to COVID-19, there are multiple mechanisms that are thought to be used by Ivermectin to enforce its anti-viral effects:
1) competitive binding of Ivermectin with the hostreceptor binding region of COVID-19 spike protein, 2) limiting binding to the ACE-2 receptor, binding/interference with multiple essential structural and non-structural proteins required by the virus in order to replicate, and others. The Australian study Dr. Jhingree refers to, most importantly was not a human model, and posits the least likely mechanism for Ivermectin to work, the blocking of import in alpha and beta protein channels into the nucleus. It is because of this study it is erroneously concluded that extremely high amounts of Ivermectin will be needed to combat COVID-19. North Macedonia, Belize, Uttar Pradesh (210 million people), State of Alto Parana in Paraguay, State of Chiapas Mexico, 8 State health ministries in Peru, this is a short list of states or countries that have accepted Ivermectin officially into their treatment guidelines based on the developing evidence. It makes absolute little sense to me that vaccine proponents would cite “lack of approval by the FDA or anywhere,” as a reason not to take Ivermectin. It is in fact laughable considering some of the following. 1) All vaccines are approved by the FDA for emergency use; this is NOT THE SAME AS REGULAR APPROVAL. In fact, this is approval in desperation. 2) Ivermectin had more
anti-viral studies completed than vaccines when the FDA granted vaccine use for emergency. 3) Ivermectin has more anti-COVID studies today, than the vaccine had on when approved, Ivermectin has not received FDA emergency approval. 4) It is not for lack of trying that Ivermectin has not undergone multiple large US or European trials. The sponsors of such trials appear to have a bias and preference for the highly profitable vaccines. Let it be known that I am not anti-vaccine, as a health professional I have seen firsthand the benefits of effective vaccination campaigns and I have been the recipient of many of these vaccines regularly and continually, even taking part in these campaigns. However, there are many worrying facts about the COVID-19 vaccine that bothers me and should bother all intelligent people in Guyana. 1) There are no longterm trials on the effects of the COVID-19 vaccine. 2) High costs - these vaccines are NOT free. One way or the other, unless gifted, the nation must repay the manufacturers for these vaccines, 3) Significant adverse effects: In just four months, the COVID-19 vaccines have killed more people than all available vaccines combined from mid-1997 until the end of 2013 – a period of 15.5 years! VAERS (national vaccine
Tensions between Int’l Investment Law and Int’l Human Rights Law in Guyana DEAR EDITOR, I wish to add my voice to the Guyana Bar Association’s (GBA) call for the government to withdraw immediately, the proposed amendment to the Police Act by way of the Police (Amendment) Bill No. 8 of 2021, which would permit the taking of DNA samples from any person who might be in lawful custody. The GBA has addressed the issue quite adequately in their statement, as such, the only point I wish to add is that if this happens, it would be a highly regressive step for Guyana, and it is an extremely troubling development, indeed. Nevertheless, this is more a specific matter; the broader issue, which is being addressed, is the increasing tensions between International Investment Law and International Human Rights Law or rather the tensions between international investment norms and international
human rights obligations in the current Guyana context. One of the reasons for the increase in this tension is the new Oil and Gas industry. Some of these tensions are more evident, for example, in the absence of the swift necessary Amendments to the Environmental Protection Act Chapter 20:05. This Act needs to be upgraded to address tensions relative to international and general investment norms, in the light of a ‘booming’ oil and gas industry, with environmental and social norms. Other tensions are obvious in our governance, management, and administration. As one assesses the behaviour of our government – current and previous, and approaches to governance, particularly since the emergence of the oil and gas industry, there is a consistent trend which points to this tension being increased. The government is no doubt pushing its investment agenda; however,
there are also human rights obligations which must somehow be balanced with investment norms. The time has come for us to examine how we can reduce these tensions in a more comprehensive and structured way, as a key factor for enabling good governance and sustainable development. In developed countries such as, the Unites States of America, Canada, Australia and Norway, among others, these tensions have been and are being addressed through legislation, policy and in a more functional sense, through institutional strengthening (systems and structures) and development of relevant capacities and capabilities within these institutions. Questions which ought to be examined in the Guyana context are: What are the human rights obligations for Guyana relative to the international investment (Continued on page 22)
safety surveillance programme) reports as of April 23, 2021: 12,618 serious adverse events and 118,000+ adverse events and 3,500+ deaths. EuraVigilance (the EU version to VAERS) reported, as of April 17, 2021, 330,000+ injury reports after vaccination and 7,766 deaths. 4) VAERS only reports one percent of actual data, according to a Harvard Study commissioned by the US government. There is a second study in the Journal of the American Medical Association that quotes it may be two percent. I shudder to do the math to calculate missing data and actual deaths and adverse effects. 5) The absence of even pre-print study data availability for wider scientific review for vaccines. Data that is now required in copious amounts for Ivermectin, the comparatively amount available, being insufficient. According to the data available to us from over 1,000 studies, 56 clinical trials (the majority being large), Ivermectin works against COVID-19. Its antiviral properties are not affected by the strain of COVID-19. At .2mg per kg or 24mg for the average adult, every two weeks, Ivermectin prophylaxis/prevention is about 85 percent to 90 percent, comparable to the
vaccine. For those who have been infected already with COVID-19, the use of Ivermectin has shown to prevent spread by the carrier. Those acutely ill with COVID19 have been shown to significantly improve with Ivermectin included in the treatment regime, with many no longer needing intensive hospital care. It needs to be noted that in one study of over 788 health care workers, 12mg Ivermectin was given once weekly for three months. None of the health workers tested positive for COVID-19 vs. 58 percent of the control group! This outcome was replicated in a second study. The vaccines have never achieved 100 percent protection in any trial, faulty or otherwise. I strongly encourage the administration to investigate the mountainous literature available on Ivermectin. A simple solution to this problem is for the government to initiate its own clinical trials. There are many in the health system who are reluctant to take the vaccines with good reason. They are not alone, at one point, 66 percent of Los Angeles health workers were choosing to delay or skip the vaccine. No sane person appreciates rushed science. Many healthcare workers may be
willing, myself included, to participate in Ivermectin trials. I cannot decide if individuals should or should not take the vaccine. Ultimately this is a matter of personal choice and advice from a health care provider that considers a person’s complete medical history. However, to tout the vaccine as the only option or that Ivermectin is “unproven” is the most dishonest opinion circulating in the public sphere during this pandemic. Due to the lack of medical debate in the public domain about Ivermectin and COVID-19 by doctors or anyone else, I encourage all to do their own research. Please see the website of The Front Line COVID-19 Critical Care Alliance (FLCCC) at covid19criticalcare.com. It is an excellent resource for all things Ivermectin vs. COVID19. Regardless of vaccination or alternative pharmaceutical use, please continue to wear your masks properly, N95 masks still provide the best protection a mask can provide, practice social distancing and maintain a healthy lifestyle with a proper diet and exercise. Please consult your physician before taking any medication. Yours sincerely Kamana Burnham RN
Only a sincere believer will attain paradise Mr. Green DEAR EDITOR, I refer to a letter titled “We have all sinned and come short of the glory of God” written by Hamilton Green published on 6-15-2021 in the Kaieteur News. Guyana will never be at heart’s ease until people like Mr. Green gets off the political scene. Mr. Green can write about the Tulsa race massacre because it was a massive operation that involved Black people being killed in America. His heart is in agony where Black people are concerned, but he shows no remorse when so many Indian lives are lost and property destroyed, despite having an Indian wife. He purposefully and willfully fails to admit that the Wismar
pogrom was a large scale, deliberately planned and organised attack on defenseless Indians, just like Tulsa. What Mr. Green does in his reply to Ms. Rhyaan Shah is to easily cull together a number of unconnected incidents to weigh them off the Wismar massacre. Editor, these individual incidents by themselves cannot be easily dismissed for their savagery. But neither can Wismar’s massive attacks be so easily ignored, or be dismissed by the likes of Mr. Green. There had to have been PNC complicity in the Wismar massacre as that party held its party congress that same year in 1964 in Mackenzie now Linden in an act of validation. As if to rub salt in
the wound Mr. Forbes Burnham chose May 26...the exact date of the Wismar massacre...to declare Guyana’s independence. The PPP government never paid compensation to those who lost lives and property; neither did they annually commemorate the Wismar incident because of that party’s ideology. Mr. Green...his other political name is Mohamed Bilal just for show and to catch votes...can quote scripture nowadays. Towards what purpose? Likewise, the devil can quote scripture for his ends. But until Mr. Green has become a sincere believer, he will not enter paradise. Sincerely, Sultan Mohamed
...Setting the record straight on Kissoon’s From page 5 Burnham and Jagan. And the fact that the Roopnaraine had migrated years before Burnham came to power makes Kissoon’s claim a nonissue. What I found repulsive and depraved is his stating, Roopnaraine’s “mother” not father or family had close
relations with Burnham. This is classic Kissoon, leaving a deliberate insult in the public domain in the hope it would not be challenged. Concerning Moses Bhagwan being happy that the PPP was defeated, applies to all of us in the opposition, including Freddie Kissoon. What I will contest is his
‘hate’ argument. Where is ‘hate’ in seeing the back of a regime whose more than two decades in power witnessed corruption on a vast scale, support for drug lords, deaths of hundreds of people and a terrible record on race relations. Yours faithfully Tacuma Ogunseye
T N U L B . . . T B N U T L N B T . U . L . L T B . . N . U N U T L N B . U T . . L N N U T B . U . N L U BL BLUNT. B . . T . T T N N U . U L . . L B . T B . . . . N . T U T N N T U N U L L U B . L B . . . . B . T . . T . N N T U N L LU U B . N L . . U B T . L . . N B T . U . . N L T U B . N L . . U B T . L . . N B T . . U . N L T U B . N L . . U B . T L . . N B T . . U . N L T U B . N L . . U B T . L . . N B . T . U . N L T U B . N L . . U B T . L . . N B T . U . . N L T U B . N L . . U B T . L . B . UN .BLUNT. L . . B T . . . N T U N L . . U B T . L . B . UN .BLUNT. L . . B T . . . N T U N L . . U B T . L . . N B T . U . . N L B T . U . . N L T U B . N L . . U B T . L . . N B T . . . LU ...BLUN B T . . . N T U N L U B T . L . . N B T . U . . N L T . U B . . N L T U B . N L . . U B T . L . . N B T . U . . N L T BB T...BLU U N L U B . L . . B . T . . N N T T L U U N L L U B U T...BLU B L . . N . B . T . . N T U N N N U L U U B L . BL TLUNT.. UNT...B BL Friday June 18, 2021
Kaieteur News
When a politician finds it fit to distort information for his own selfish endeavours, that politician should not be trusted with any aspect of nation building.
We, the citizens of this dear land, must denounce the reckless behaviour of any such politician and make it clear that we will not sit idly by and be deceived to the point of unwarranted rage.
Guyana needs responsible and visionary leaders, not deceivers spreading fictitious tales!
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Housing Ministry warns of alleged imposters
T
he Ministry of Housing and Water yesterday issued a notice advising the general public to be aware of alleged Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) agent imposters. In the notice, which was posted on their Facebook page, it was stated, “Please be reminded that all legitimate transactions are done at our main office at Brickdam and United Nations Place Georgetown, or at our regional offices, where official receipts are issued for every monetary transaction.” According to the post, individual transactions are not and should not be done in the fields or by individuals
Friday June 18, 2021
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Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal. making site visits. It was then highlighted that the only open-air transactions
that are authorised and will be honoured by the Ministry or CH&PA, are those conducted at planned and announced Dream Realised activities. It was also stated in the post that any offer for land allocations is done in-person at CH&PA offices during regular working hours. This publication had recently reported that a woman, who pretended she is employed at CH&PA to sell a plot of land located on the East Coast of Demerara, was hauled before the court and was released on $75,000 bail for the offence. The defendant, 21-yearold Sudarshanie Ramsingh, of Gordon Street, Kitty, (Continued on page 20)
Man who allegedly gunned down teen committed to High Court
T
he man who allegedly gunned d o w n a n Albouystown teen who was on his way to football practice, in 2019, was yesterday committed to stand trial in the High Court for the offence. At the end of the preliminary inquiry (PI) into the murder of 18-year-old Christopher Mansfield, Senior Magistrate, Leron Daly, in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, ruled that the prosecution has provided enough evidence for a prima facie case to be made out against the defendant. As such she committed Shemar Harvey to stand trial in the High Court for murder. Harvey, 22, of Lot 135 King Edward Street, Albouystown, is expected to go on trial before a judge and jury at the next practicable sitting of the Demerara Assizes. On Harvey’s first court appearance, he was not required to plead to the indictable charge which alleges that on March 31, 2019, at Albouystown, Georgetown, he murdered Mansfield. According to reports, on the day in question around 06:47 hrs., Mansfield who hails from Lot 66 Barr Street, Albouystown, was on his way to a football
Committed, Shemar Harvey.
game when he was approached by three “identifiable” males at C o o p e r S t r e e t , Albouystown. The men reportedly approached on bicycles and were armed with a cutlass, a knife and a gun. It was reported that Mansfield was shot to the right side of his abdomen. Mansfield had run to seek refuge in a yard of Lot 154 Non Pareil Street, Albouystown, where he collapsed. He was later taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) by public-spirited citizens, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
Dead, Christopher Mansfield.
Kaieteur News
Friday June 18, 2021
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STAY AT HOME AND STUDY!
I
t has become the habit of students to stake out various places in order to study. It is not unusual to discover children in the Botanic and Promenade Gardens or even in the National Park. I would be very shocked if any of my offspring told me that they were going to the gardens or park to study. I normally associate parks and gardens with relaxation and fun and not with serious studies. It is a fact of life in Guyana though, and has been so for many years that students would seek out the quietude of gardens and parks within the Capital for study. Somehow these students feel that they can attain more by studying in these places than by staying at home. However, there are risks involved in even going to these places. While the loneliness of the Botanic Gardens, for example, does encourage some students to go there to revise, this very loneliness also encourages attacks by criminals. A few years ago, criminal elements set their eyes on the laptop of a young girl who had gone along with her friends to engage in group study in the gardens. The bandits tried to wrest the laptop from the girl but she resisted and was shot in the process. She should consider herself lucky because the situation could have been worse. While there comes a time when people need to stand up to such criminal actions, it is not at all heroic to be risking one’s life when facing an armed gunman. I find it horrifying that a gunman would shoot at a schoolchild simply to relieve
Dem
boys seh...
her of her laptop computer. In my days, there were bullies, mainly older boys who would go around at times robbing smaller children of their pocket change. But they would never seek to go further than that and would never harm the child. We h a v e a n e w generation of criminals who show no mercy to their victims and therefore when they are caught and put before the courts, they should expect none. There can be no justification whatsoever for robbing a child. There can also be no reason for a child to be going into parks and gardens with a laptop. Where will the laptop be plugged in? How much use can be obtained from the battery? No more than a few hours at the most and therefore it would have been advisable for that student to leave her portable computer at home. The other issue is why was it necessary for the students to have their group study in the gardens instead of in schools or at home? Certainly if students are preparing for examinations and feel the need to study in a group setting, they should find a comfortable place where they can sit and study at desks. School administrators should consider issuing passes to students to study on weekends in school for fixed hours. I personally have never believed in studying in groups. For me too much time is likely to be spent chatting rather than studying and very little is achieved through this form of studying than what can be obtained through individual
private study. Some students however will argue that coming together with friends creates the necessary discipline and motivation to work. If this is the case, then they should try to work on their own motivation because it is important that students also do individual studies since more is achieved through this form of studying. At times, group interaction is necessary such as when a number of students are cooperating on an assignment and here again, this is better done in a school setting rather than in parks. One of the problems that face many students, especially poor students preparing for examinations is that they are unable to study at home. For one, not many poor families can guarantee a comfortable and secure place for students to undertake their private study. Secondly, there are many distractions involved in home study. Yet both parents and children should learn to find ways of creating a quiet and comfortable environment so that the student can study at home rather than having to venture outside the home to study. This issue of students having to study in parks and in groups is something that should be addressed. Efforts should be made to create a
GCCI calls .... From page 2 its support for the Government’s efforts, and continues, as a private sector, to be available for other forms of support to ensure that Guyanese are protected by way of vaccination from the novel Coronavirus.
Spoil sport should not get invite to party!
Deh gat some people yuh don’t want at yuh wedding. But yuh does deh between a rock and hard place. If yuh nah invite dem, dem gan cuss yuh out fuh de rest of yuh married life. And if yuh invite dem, dem gan still find fault with everything, including yuh food. So yuh does invite dem out of courtesy and hope dem nah tun up. But dem does tun up in dem Sunday best and dem does walk wit dem colleagues. Dem does come and eat out yuh food. Dem does pack dem plate higher dan Mount Roraima. But yuh nah mind because yuh does glad fuh people eat yuh food at yuh wedding. Dem does lick de platter clean, belch and stretch off when dem done. And dem does go back fuh seconds later. Dem does enjoy dem
self and mek yuh feel glad how yuh invite dem.But when dem leff de reception, dem does start fuh bad mouth yuh. Dem does go home and tell dem family and friends how de food nah ready yet, how is fake food and dat it nah had salt. Dem does even gat dem friends come back and ask yuh why yuh nah serve Chinese food instead of a Russian or European menu. But dem nah been complaining when dem bin lashing de food and going back fuh a second serving. De food was not a problem den but after dem belly fuh dem mouth get sour. Dat is why when time come fuh invite people to yuh wedding yuh must know yuh friends from yuh enemies. Talk half and careful who yuh invite to de party!
comfortable zone for students to do their work at home. Schools should however also recognise the challenges that students face and seek to provide some place for them to go on weekends if they need to
study. My advice to students preparing for examinations is to stay at home and study. It is the safest place to be. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not
necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
Kaieteur News
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Friday June 18, 2021
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
In Israel is 60 a majority in a parliamentary vote of 119? Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, has lost power in a confidence motion in which the voting was 59 for Netanyahu to stay and 60 for a new PM. There wasn’t a word in any quarter in any country that 60 was not a majority number that toppled Netanyahu. Only in Guyana that ghoulish thought is possible. What then is a majority of 119 if it is not 60? It was not a nice moment in a long process, stretching back decades, of embarrassment for Guyana in the CARICOM region when the Caribbean Court of Justice ruled that 33 is the majority of 65. I believe that particular moment was the cause of the eventual untergang of the APNU+AFC regime. From the time the APNU+AFC leaders chose
to argue that the noconfidence vote (NCV) was invalid because 33 was not a majority of 65, the world began to look upon these leaders with suspicion. Looking back at the 19 months involving the NCV and the rigging of the election, it was clear that either one person – President Granger – was running the show and had no capacity to strategise or he was accepting incomprehensibly incompetent advice. Let us put ourselves in the shoes of the PNC leaders (I say PNC because I don’t think the AFC leaders were consulted on the shape of the NCV conspiracy thus their advice was not solicited with the exception of Raphael Trotman) and accept that strategies had to be invented to oppose the result of the NCV.
It may not be plural but singular – strategy instead of strategies. First, the 33 rejection was unwise because it just was a nons t a r t e r. T h e w o r l d i s accustomed to a victory by one in all kinds of circumstances – politics, sports, legal jurisprudence. The world simply accepts that the reality of life is that you can win or lose by one. It made no sense arguing against that accepted approach that is hundreds of years old. The PNC did not believe it would have lost the NCV and as the dust began to settle thoughts of ways to retain power until elections were due in May 2020 were born. In desperation it looked for any loophole. The 33 game was dead on arrival. No one will ever know what went through the minds of those
judges when they heard the argument from a sitting Caribbean government that 33 is not a majority of 65. From thereon, the world began to question the judgment and credibility of Guyana’s president. Equally foolish was the perspective used about dual citizenship. The constitution was clear that the dual citizen in the House was illegal but once a vote was cast by such a person, it could not be reversed. The PNC leaders knew this because it could have been read from the stance of the House Speaker, Dr. Scotland. The fact that he chose not to annul the NCV told you that he knew he didn’t have the legal power. If President Granger did not know that under the constitution the vote of a dual citizen counts in parliament, then it was up to his advisors to counsel him. But maybe they were as incompetent as he. We come now to strategy and not strategies. From the time the NCV
was lost, the only game in town was to get GECOM to submit a million reasons why GECOM could not hold election. Frederick Kissoon What should have c ountry. When I read that happened then was that the asininity of 33 is not a utterance, I felt so much majority and a cry that dual anger that this was a person I citizen cannot vote should once thought had a place in never have entered the Guyanese politics. Ramjattan told the press picture. The APNU+AFC should conference that the court have accepted the results of case involving the dual the NCV, agree to abide by citizenship question was its requirements and concerned only with announce that the matter was C h a r r a n d a s s ’ i l l e g a l now in GECOM hands. This presence in Parliament and stratagem was finally n o t t h e o t h e r accepted but it came too late. parliamentarians. No matter The credibility of Granger how fresh in your memory and his team was already was the performance of the badly damaged by the PPP prior to 2015, when embarrassing embrace of Ramjattan spoke those two foolish court cases one words, you knew that the o f w h i c h c o m p l e t e l y APNU+AFC was a colossus destroyed the credibility of mistake the electorate made in 2015. the AFC. (The views expressed in At an AFC press c o n f e r e n c e , K h e m r a j this article are those of the Ramjattan said the silliest a u t h o r a n d d o n o t thing ever to come out of the necessarily reflect the mouth of a politician in this opinion of this newspaper.)
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Imported cosmetics for distribution must be labelled in English - Food and Drug Dept. The Government Analyst – Food and Drugs Department (GA-FDD) is advising importers and distributers that all cosmetics must be labelled in English before it is distributed. This is according to a press release from the Department. The release also stated
-1147 bottles seized that 1147 bottles of cosmetics from the premise of Annand Rampersaud, of Lot 56, Third Street, Industry Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara were
seized.Importers of cosmetics are advised to ensure that all cosmetics duly facilitated for release by the Food (Continued on page 20)
Example of cosmetics labelled in foreign language.
The 1147 bottles of cosmetics that were seized.
Kaieteur News
Friday June 18, 2021
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Woman dies in crash, day before 40th birthday
T
he Secretary of the Baramita Village Council who had plans of celebrating her 40th birthday yesterday was killed tragically in a vehicular accident on Wednesday afternoon. The accident which claimed the life of Wanita Sobers-Paul of Central Baramita Village, Region One occurred sometime around 17:30hrs on the Baramita Main Access Road. Sobers was at the time travelling in minibus BPP 9730 along with four others occupants, one of whom was her father, Christopher James, when the accident occurred. Kaieteur News was told that the bus was heading back to Baramita Village from Matthew’s Ridge when it developed mechanical difficulties, which caused the accident to occur. The driver of the bus, 23year-old Deonarine Kumar, told police that while descending a hill on the southern side of the road, his vehicle started to travel in a right-to-left motion. He further reported that he tried to apply brakes to stop the bus but despite his efforts, it collided with a bump on the northern side of the road. Due to the impact of the collision, Sobers and the driver were flung out of the bus while James and two other passengers were left
The scene of the accident at Baramita on Wednesday.
Dead, Wanita Sobers-Paul. trapped in their seats. Persons who were on scene rendered assistance and rushed them to the Baramita Health Centre, where the mother of one was pronounced dead on arrival. Kumar was admitted to the centre and is suffering from pain to his back while, James and the other two passengers were treated and sent away. James, the dead woman’s father told Kaieteur News yesterday that on the day of the accident, they travelled to Matthew’s Ridge to purchase some phones. He said that on the morning of the accident, they had received a message from Digicel indicating that there was a phone promotion happening at Matthew’s Ridge. Deciding to get in on (Continued on page 23)
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Health Minister says Govt. did not source vaccines from illegal entity The Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, stated during a press conference y e s t e r d a y, t h a t t h e Government did not source vaccines from any illegal entity. “At no time did Guyana procure vaccines from any illegal entity or anyone in trouble with legal authorities anywhere, at no time did Guyana access vaccines secretly from anyone. In every instance, the Ministry of Health has followed the established process and has established legally binding contracts to ensure the timely delivery of these vaccines,” he said. The Leader of the Opposition, Joseph Harmon, had questioned the procurement of a batch of
The Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony. some 200,000 Russian Sputnik V vaccines which was recently acquired by the MoH through Sheik Ahmed Dalmook Al Maktoum of the United Arab Emirates
(UAE), who is reported by a Norwegian publication to have accessed vaccines from a Norwegian convict, Per Morten Hansen, adding that the Government should suspend the usage of the Russian vaccine until the authenticity of Guyana’s batch is verified. The Health Minister went on to say that Harmon’s suspicion is just mischievous and reckless, and that his comments have the power to undermine the Government’s vaccination programme. A d d i t i o n a l l y, t h e Minister said that the Government contracted the Sheik after discussions with the Russia Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), (Continued on page 23)
Friday June 18, 2021
Ten Haitians found in Berbice hotel - Govt. believes they are victims of trafficking
A group of Haitians who were reportedly detained sometime back. Ten Haitian nationals were yesterday found in the Swiss Hotel located at Skeldon, Berbice, Region Six, without any form of identification or legal documents. It is believed by the Government of Guyana that the foreigners were victims of human trafficking. According to a statement released from the Office of the Attorney General, the Haitians were discovered in the hotel by police ranks around 10:30 hrs. Kaieteur News was told last evening that arrangements were being made to transport the suspected trafficking victims from Berbice to Georgetown where they will be kept in custody of the Ministry of Human Services and Social Protection.
The Government stated that the Haitians – five females and five males – are claiming to be juveniles. One of them who spoke English reportedly told the cops that they were brought from Suriname via speed boat and left at the hotel since Monday, June 14. Sources close to the investigation told this newspaper that some of them looked older than 18 but because they are not in possession of any documents, investigators are unable to correctly verify their ages. It was further alleged that the person who brought them took away their passports, other documents, money and other personal belongings. The Government in its statement related, “it has
long been suspected that there is a huge trafficking and human smuggling ring, including children, taking place in the Region and Guyana is being used as a transit point in this racket.” It is believed that persons, including children, are being trafficked to various parts of the world through the country. Foreigners being trafficked through Guyana, the statement continued, includes Cubans, Nigerians and Haitians, among others, and posited that the discovery of the Haitians in the Berbice hotel is the latest manifestation of “the nefarious racket at work which seems to be operating on a daily basis.” The statement further added that its (Continued on page 20)
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Porter died from drowning compounded by blunt trauma to the head The post-mortem examination performed on the remains of, 22-year-old Benjamin Franklyn, who was a porter of Four Miles, Port Kaituma that drowned last Thursday, while he tried to swim across the Barima River, in the North West District (NWD) in Region one, reveals that he died of drowning compounded by blunt trauma to the head.The autopsy was conducted by state pathologist Dr. Nehaul Singh. According to an initial report, the deceased, Franklyn, was a truck porter and would assist in
delivering food supplies and fuel to various back dams. About ten days ago at 06:00 hrs, Franklyn and a crew left for Port Kaituma to deliver food supplies as they would normally do. About two days after, while on their way back home, he and the crew were forced to stop at the Barima River, where they spent two days, waiting on the water, which had prevented them from crossing the river to recede. While waiting on the water to recede, the now dead man had grown impatient, of waiting and he
proceeded to swim across the river to head home. Whilst in the middle of the river, Franklyn had shouted for help and his crew members tried to rescue him but their efforts to reach him were futile. He eventually went down into the water and did not surface again. His body was subsequently fished out of the river by the crew members and taken to Port Kaituma Hospital, where he was pronounced dead by a doctor on duty. His remains were handed over to his relatives for burial.
Ten Haitians found in Berbice... From page 14 Brazilian counterpart has already expressed concern about the suspected smuggling ring that exists. Suriname too has reportedly shared intelligence with Guyana that suggests that the trafficking in persons racket exists there too. The Cuban Ambassador to Guyana, according to the statement, has already been engaged about the matter. The Government stated that in light of the “circumstances” it is compelled to inform the relevant international agencies that deals human trafficking. It also plans to engage the United Nations Humans Rights Council (UNHRC), International Police (INTERPOL) and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) for their urgent intervention in the matter. Only last month, the Government cited that a number of Haitians, Nigerians and Cubans were arrested by police close to
Lethem, Region Nine. Some of them reportedly did not have entry stamps to Guyana in their passports. On May 26, Kaieteur News had reported too that 17 Haitians, who had arrived at the Eugene Correia International Airport, were packed on a return flight and sent back to their port of embarkation.The Guyana Police force (GPF) had stated that they had failed to satisfy the country’s immigration requirements. It was noted in the Government’s statement as well that the continuous influx of the foreigners is occurring at Guyana’s borders which are currently closed and at both of its international airports. As a result of this, it added that Guyana will immediately review its immigration protocols and impose lawful restrictions and conditions where necessary to address the situation.
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Friday June 18, 2021
Kaieteur News
Brazilian man wanted for gold miner’s murder
Shemar Drakes’ body on the trail at Suewanda Backdam.
Wanted, Bengong Fakaud
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) yesterday issued a wanted bulletin for Begong Fakaud for questioning in relation to the murder of Shemar Drakes, a gold miner of Third Avenue, Bartica. According to the police, Fakaud’s last known address is Suewanda and Surinamo Backdam, Cuyuni-Mazaruni. This publication had reported that the 20-year-old Drakes was murdered on June 7 at Suewanda Backdam. Kaieteur News learnt that Drakes and Fakaud, a Brazilian national had a misunderstanding over a woman, which then turned violent. Reliable sources told this publication that just after midnight on June 7, the two men were at a woman’s home where they were waiting to have sexual intercourse with her. While waiting an argument ensued and a fight broke out between them, during which the gold miner received some blows about his body. Drakes who tried to defend himself, used
a bat and lashed Fakaud several times about his back when a few persons came and parted the fight. Sources revealed that the two ended up meeting again at a shop where a party was in session. While there another encounter erupted, which resulted in Drakes’ death. Kaieteur News understands that at the party, Fakaud came from behind the young man and chopped him several times about his abdomen area with a sharp object, then escaped. It is unclear what happened directly after, but a motionless Drakes was found on a trail not far from where the shop is located. A n y o n e w i t h information, which may lead to the arrest of Begong Fakaud is asked to contact the police on telephone numbers: 620-6836, 226-6978, 2258196, 268-2328, 2682298/2222, 226-7065, 2264701, 661-5870 or 911 or the nearest police station. All information will be treated with strict confidence.
Imported cosmetics for.... From page 12 and Drug department to be labeled in the English Language. The release noted that items are being imported into the country via the Lethem border and are not being processed by the department. It was also noted that the items are labeled in Portuguese. According to the laws of Guyana Food and Drug Act, Chapter 34:03 and its accompanying Regulations,
Regulation 7, 18(15), and Part V Regulations 99 stipulates, “No person shall sell a cosmetic unless a label is applied to the cosmetic in compliance with these Regulations.” As such, importers are being urged to ensure their products comply with the laws of Guyana Food and Drug Act and its Regulation for the labeling of food, drugs, cosmetics, and medical devices are in English.
Housing Ministry warns... From page 8 Georgetown, appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Principal Magistrate Sherdel IsaacsMarcus. She was not required to plead to the charge, which alleges that on September 4, 2019, at Gordon Street, Kitty, with intent to defraud $1,250,000 from Talesh Carsotam, she falsely
pretended that she was employed by CH&PA and in a position to sell a plot of land located at Cummings Lodge, ECD. The court had learned that Ramsingh has other pending matters in court and that she was not aware of the charge until Friday, June 11, 2021, when she attended court for another matter.
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Accused chain snatcher beaten after being set free by magistrate A cellphone recorded video that surfaced on Facebook, yesterday, depicted the beating of an accused gold chain snatcher, mere minutes after he was freed by a magistrate at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Courts. Kaieteur News has been able to confirm what was seen in the video. According to what this newspaper was told, the persons seen beating the man in the video is a woman who had accused him of snatching her gold chain and her son. The woman had lodged a report against the man and he was arrested, locked up and later charged for the offence. This media house learnt that the man had spent some time in prison on remand but his case was dismissed recently due to lack of evidence. It was further related to
Kaieteur News that he is a known offender who had also faced similar charges in the past. After his case was dismissed for snatching the woman’s chain, he walked out of court and was reportedly heading to one of the bus parks in the Stabroek Market Area. While making his way there, he was reportedly intercepted by the woman whose chain he had allegedly snatched and her son in the vicinity of the Parliament Building. The video showed the woman’s son placing him in a vice grip as she attempted to search his pockets for money. Her son could be heard saying, “Bai you rob me mother”. He tried to free himself but they kept on assaulting him. Persons could be heard telling them to take him to the police and not to assault him
or else they would get into trouble. The son continued choking the man some more as the woman continued to search his pockets. He was wrestled onto the pavement as he begged the guards stationed at Parliament Building to intervene. The woman decided to listen to the advice of both the guards and persons watching on and tried part her son from the man. Her son, however, was not adhering and continued to squeeze tightly on the man’s neck. Other persons were forced to intervene in order to save the accused gold chain snatcher. As they pulled the woman’s son away from him, they said, “Look stop, you choking the man, you gon kill he.” The accused gold chain snatcher, seemed as though
he was almost out of breath and lied on the pavement for a few seconds before he got back to his feet and said he was going to the Brickdam Police Station to make a report against them. While he was walking away, the woman could be heard saying, “You should have been jailed, this is the law we got in Guyana…you rob me buddae and you walking free.” The accused gold chain snatcher could be heard responding, “I get free, I work fuh duh buddae.” After hearing these remarks, the woman’s son pursued him but his mother held him back while saying, “Bai you rob me and get off; people like you ga fuh dead.” The man then continued on his way towards the police station and the video ended there.
The accused gold chain snatcher being assaulted by the woman and her son.
Harmon called out for “reckless” claims about ‘fake’ COVID-19 vaccines Opposition Leader, Joseph Harmon, was yesterday called out for his claims of possible fake COVID-19 vaccines after he sought to lambaste the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government over their acquisition of doses of the Russian-made Sputnik V vaccine to prevent the spread of the deadly COVID19 in Guyana. He had also urged for a hold to be put on vaccines despite being fully immunised himself. During a live aired press briefing yesterday, Harmon called into question the use of the vaccine on the basis that it was not approved by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and called for halt in the use of Sputnik V in the public immunisation process. His claims have been called into question by citizens and President, Irfaan Ali, who called him out for his irresponsible and reckless claims. At the press conference, the Opposition Leader, among other things, cited articles from Reuters international news agency
which reported on a discovery of a fake batch of the vaccines in Mexico earlier this year. In the face of a barrage of questions over the unconfirmed claims that Guyana may have received a fake supply of the vaccines and the fact that he himself has been fully vaccinated with Sputnik V, Harmon remained adamant that the authenticity of the vaccines could not trusted since it was sourced from a middle man supplier in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). “The PPP has placed the lives of thousands of Guyanese at risk by purchasing vaccine from a middle man at the exorbitant price and kept this a secret from Guyanese people until recently…” Harmon said Alluding to revelations on the purchase of the vaccines made in the National Assembly earlier, this week, Harmon noted that transaction made to supply Guyana with 200,000 doses of Sputnik V vaccines smacks of “corruption and racketeering.” Harmon emphasised that given that the vaccines were
Harmon’s Facebook post claiming 200,000 fake vaccines being found in Mexico. purchased from a UAE supplier, Sheik Ahmed Dalmook Al-Maktoum, who has been linked to a convicted fraudster, the authenticity of the goods should be brought into question. Harmon also stressed on the “excessive” $600M expenditure on the vaccines purchased without any approval of the Opposition.
Shaded areas represent the countries that approved Sputnik V vaccine against COVID-19 or have shown interest in obtaining the vaccine.
“The matter of the vaccine purchase is now a health safety matter for all citizens, as well as a public health concern. As such, we demand that the Ministry of Health provide us with the batch numbers purchased from this Sheik Al-Maktoum, the details of the shipping, transshipment and all importation documents for the said batches brought into countries where the vaccines were stored,” he told the news conference. Additionally, Harmon claimed that since Sputnik V has not been approved by WHO and is still awaiting emergency use authorisation, it should not be given the clearance to be used in the country. “The clearance to use Sputnik V in Guyana comes from authorisation from the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department, a unit under the Ministry of Health, which I don’t believe has the capability to approve the usage of such vaccines.” “As a result and for a
Opposition Leader, Joseph Harmon.
President, Irfaan Ali.
matter of safety, the APNU+AFC demands that these vaccines be put on a hold until the population is given assurance that what we are dealing with is not a bogus transaction and that we are dealing with a safe arrangement.” Further, Harmon quoted extensively from a report in Reuters dated 16 March 2021, which he said bears a striking similarity of what is happening in here in Guyana. According to Harmon, the article pointed out to an instance where the authorities in Mexico seized a batch of fake doses of Russia’s Sputnik V vaccine. Quoting directly from Reuters, Harmon noted that “the first shipment of the Sputnik V vaccine - a delivery of 200,000 doses - arrived in Mexico on February 23. It was approved for emergency use by Mexican regulators earlier last month.” Added to this, the Opposition Leader in a message on his Facebook page calling for a suspension of the use of the vaccine noted that a batch of “200,000 fake Sputnik V vaccines” was discovered in Mexico. However, Kaieteur News noted that the same Reuters
article, published since March, quoted from said that the fake batch Harmon referenced was only 5,775 doses and was seized at Campeche International Airport in Mexico en route by private plane to Honduras almost one month after the authentic 200,000 doses of Sputnik was shipped to Mexico. Since last year, over 70 countries have approved the use of Sputnik V or have shown interest in obtaining the vaccine for use. Additionally, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) on May 27 signed a deal with the Russian Direct Investment Fund for the use of Sputnik V vaccines. Harmon said that unless the PPP can provide assurance that the vaccines are authentic then their use should be suspended. Earlier at the press conference, the Opposition Leader was asked to comment the fact that he himself was administered both doses of the Sputnik V vaccines. He told reporters that at the time he was under the impression that the vaccines were WHOapproved, and that is why he took it. Pressed on the fact (Continued on page 23)
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Kaieteur News
...Tensions between Int’l Investment Law
CAR RENTAL
AIDAN'S CAR RENTAL & TOW TRUCK SERVICE: PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MINIBUS,GOOD FOR AIRPORT & FAMILY OUTINGS, CHEAPEST RATE #698-7807.
LAND FOR SALE
One land for sale,Lot 251 Section 'C' Turkeyen.60 ft x 80 width with unfurnished property.Tel#627-7718. TO LET
Apartment in Eccles from 20th June.Rooms in Albertown.Call: 225-3234/ 628-1183. PROPERTY FOR SALE
SERVICES Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design, advertisements, Wedding arch rentals. Tel: 626-7040 Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezer-Call: 610-5846 or 661-8158. REPAIRS AT LOW COST: F R I D G E S , A I R CONDITIONER,WASHING MACHINE,FREEZER,SALE OF AC'S. TEL#6294946,225-4822.
FOR SALE
1 Boat Propeller 34" right hand pitch. Contact 6040342. 1 6 cyl Doosan Marine Engine, complete- gearbox, propeller & shaft 5 million neg Tel#627-8898 Massey Ferguson Tractor( Foreign used). MF165$1.5M, MF 135-$1.1M, Pickup Ford Ranger-$1.1m, F150-$1.2M. 682-5230, 6154414. 1 Toyota Allion PWW Series $1.8M & 1 Honda CRV $3.2 negotiable.Contact 649-0956 for more info. One black 2011 Toyota Premio,$2.3 Million.Tel:6867004.
FOR RENT 3 bedroom,fully furnished North & Oronoque St.Bourda bottom flat.Contact 226-7012,6240041. Fully furnish apt, one bedroom,two bedroom & three bedroom.Providence and diamond.Call:6046664,216-2299.
8 7 - E - A l b e r t St,Albertown,third building from Lamaha in Albert Street. Price 24 Million(Land 82x20) negotiable. Property at Kuru Kururu concrete one flat house plus chicken pen. Call: 622-8265.
WANTED Wanted one experienced Gold Smith, Jacobs Jewellery and Pawn shop 16 Pike street Kitty Tel#622-4970 Wanted (2) experienced Welder/Fabricator. Contact Tel#222-3844. Experienced Cooks and Servers,Cleaners, Handyman. Call:626-7285 to book interview. One (1) female able bodied sales clerk. Call#2252313,226-1497. Male able bodied sales representative.Contact Tel#227-3580 for more info. Female sales representative experience in P.O.S system would be an asset.Contact Tel#227-3580. Driver for Route 42 Minibus.Call# 649-7371. Wanted 2 male sales boy must have knowledge about smart devices age 17-25.Contact 688-5951/225-7579. Night guard between age 40-60 years, from Liliendaal or Cummings Lodge area.Call# 688-2464. Lorry driver, Factory work male & female.Apply in person to R.P Enterprise E.C.D. 220-2818/3710. One cashier to work at Ice house,18yrs and older.Call: 223-7165. 2 handy men,2 assistant cooks/chefs at People's Choice kitchen.Tel#6799449. 1 porter from Georgetown.Must be able to fetch rice,flour & sugar.Tel#223-9677.
From page 6 treaties or Agreements generally, and more specifically, relative to the oil and gas industry? What are the potential conflicts under the human rights covenant and our trade and investments treaties? What should be done where such conflicts are found? How can human rights WANTED
One male able bodied clerk.Call#231-2029,6165954. One professional cook for family of four and one experienced cleaner.Call#5030359,608-2444. Wanted experience carpenters and mason.Contact: RJD Construction 6147669/628-5738. Family to live & work on a farm.Contact: 622-1976 or 227-1744. Experienced land dredge workers.Call:699-3857. 1 general domestic to work in Providence, from age 30.Please call:673-5300.
VACANCY
Pump Attendant & Cashier. Shifts (6AM-2PM & 2PM10PM). Shell Station Providence E.B.D. Email: Shellramsburg@gmail.com R o o m Attendant,Supervisors,Receptionist, 30-50 years old. 233 South Road Lacytown. Tel#2252304. Driver must be able to assist in workshop,age 25-45, Car/Van licence.Call: 6429823. Male cleaner for a workshop.Call: 642-9823. Salesperson with experience, Courtney's Boutique Stall B Bourda Market.Behind wireless connection.Tel#2273407. Minibus and Taxi drivers.Call: 225-3284/6281183. Auto Electrical apprentice age 19-25 yrs.Apply in person, Lot 120 Forth Street Albertown G/Town or call 610-0340. Experienced masseuse/cosmetologist required. Nalini's hair salon,225 New Market Street (opposite Maggies). 226-6705/609-6259. Pitmen for interior location.Applicants must be experienced.Call:231-2250. Vacancy exists for one office assistant.Must be computer literate with organiztional skills.Send application:innovationsam ericamng@gmail.com.
and investment norms, in the case of Guyana, be harmonised? Other areas to be addressed are making the necessary adjustments to the legal system and policies to encourage rights-compliant investment. Investor education and awareness initiatives on how foreign investors can be more compliant with human rights
obligations which are applicable to international investment projects in Guyana. Based on our choices, Guyana can become one of the best of the resource-rich countries or one of the worse. Finally, I would like to highlight the importance of ‘Voice and Accountability’ in reducing the tensions
between international investment norms and human rights norms. The civil society sector has an important role in mitigating these tensions, in some ways - the media, some civil society groups and individual activists and advocates have been doing a commendable job, however, more needs to be d o ne at the legislative, institutional and governance levels, etc. Yours faithfully, Audreyanna Thomas Rule of Law Advisor/ Advocate
Friday June 18, 2021
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Ministry of Health recorded 3 more COVID-19 deaths The Ministry of Health (MoH) yesterday announced that three persons who tested positive for the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) have died. Their deaths now move the country’s COVID19 death toll to 441. According to the Ministry’s press release, the latest fatalities are that of a 44-year-old woman from
Region Two (PomeroonSupernaam), a 70-year-old man from Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) and an 83year-old man from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica). They all died on Tuesday while receiving treatment at a medical facility. Further, the Health Ministry in its daily COVID19 dashboard recorded 75 new COVID-19 cases, taking
the total number of confirmed cases to 18,733. The dashboard also shows that 22 patients are in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 109 persons are in institutional isolation, 1,521 in home isolation and two persons are quarantined institutionally. To date, a total of 16,640 recoveries have been recorded.
...Woman dies in crash, day before 40th From page 11 the great deal, sometime around noon, they left Baramita and whilst returning home tragedy struck, a devastated James recounted. He further shared that his daughter has been working with the Village Council almost two months now and had plans of celebrating her 40th birth anniversary yesterday with some families and friends. The man said Sobers told him that “she would only be cooking food but won’t drink because the commu-
nity is on a 6:00pm to 6:00am curfew.” Sobers’ daughter, Shana only name provided, when contacted related that her mother had planned to distribute some food hampers to members of the community for her birthday as well to keep up a small celebration. The young woman disclosed that before tragedy struck, her mother called her moments before they departed Matthew’s Ridge, indicating that they were about to leave. According to Shana, she
was expecting her mother to arrive home around 17:30hrs because she had a meeting to attend with the Council. Instead, she received a call from a woman at the scene who informed her about the accident. Shana said her mother who was like a mentor to her, had a very jovial personality, a hardworking woman who was friendly to many. Sobers’ body is currently at the Port Kaituma mortuary where it is awaiting a post mortem examination.
Friday June 18, 2021
Kaieteur News
Energy Chamber signs MoU with MARAD to ensure effective monitoring of maritime activities
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he Guyana Oil and Gas Energy C h a m b e r signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) where the former will w o r k i n c l o s e collaboration to ensure that there is effective monitoring, regulation of maritime activities in Guyana. The MoU was signed between President of the Energy Chamber, Mr. Manniram Prashad and M A R A D ’s D i r e c t o r General, Mr. Stephen Thomas.
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Trustee inmate who escaped from Lusignan Prison, recaptured Four months after a trustee inmate escaped from the Lusignan Prison, East Coast Demerara, he was yesterday recaptured at a construction site around 16:30 hrs. According to a police report, ranks acting on information went to a construction site in Onderneeming, West Bank Demerara, where prison escapee, Radko Simeon called Davo Simeon, was recaptured. This publication had reported that Simeon, 32, of Lot 75 Community Centre Road, Better Hope, East Coast Demerara, had escaped from the Lusignan Prison on February 8, 2021. According to reports, Simeon, was an orderly at the senior staff kitchen at the facility and would normally assist with duties there. He was serving a 16-month sentence for break and enter and larceny, and was scheduled to be released from prison this August.
Recaptured, Radko Simeon called Davo Simeon.
Friday June 18, 2021
Kaieteur News
US Open: Brooks Koepka lays down marker for Bryson DeChambeau BBCsport - Two-time winner Brooks Koepka lay down a marker for defending champion Bryson DeChambeau as he finished two behind Russell Henley’s clubhouse lead in the US Open first round at Torrey Pines. DeChambeau - who is among the later starters brushed off a feud with Koepka as “banter” earlier in the week. England’s Matt Fitzpatrick and Tyrrell Hatton ended the day on one under, with American Henley three shots ahead. Grand Slam-chasing Phil Mickelson’s slow start saw him finish on four over. Mickelson, 51, became the
oldest major winner when he won his second US PGA Championship in May and is once again seeking to add the US Open title to his collection, having finished as runner-up six times. Italian Francesco Molinari and Spain’s Rafa Cabrera Bello lead European hopes on three under par. The start of play was delayed by 90 minutes with fog settled on the San Diego cliff-top course, but as the skies cleared the conditions were favourable for early starters. Those who begin later have stronger winds to contend with and may not be able to complete their round before the light is lost. Rory
Brooks Koepka is aiming to win his third US Open title. (Getty Images) McIlroy, Justin Rose, Lee Westwood and world number one Dustin Johnson are among the late starters.
Friday June 18, 2021 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Your health should be in top shape today, Aries. You're likely to feel physically, emotionally, and spiritually strong and ready to tap into your inner power.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Artistic talents are greatly increased by fresh, deeply felt inspiration. Today you may spend much of your time giving material form to your ideas.
TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) You're good at dealing with others, but today you should be especially so. Your intuition is strong and you're likely to instinctively understand others' thoughts, feelings, needs, and desires.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Artistic talents are greatly increased by fresh, deeply felt inspiration. Today you may spend much of your time giving material form to your ideas.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You generally are good at sizing up other people and sensing their thoughts and feelings, but today that talent is greatly enhanced by increased intuition. CANCER (June 21–July 22) Communication with close friends and a romantic partner should be especially beneficial today, since you're feeling more in touch with those close to you. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Recent successes could lead to new aspirations to increase your socioeconomic standing. You should be feeling especially determined and confident about your future. Your plans have worked out well. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Normally you tend to view things on a logical, intellectual level, Virgo, but today the strength of your intuition could surprise you. Your communications could be subtler than words.
SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) During this time, you'll feel especially intuitive, optimistic, and spiritually on a roll. You could feel artistically inspired, and channel some of your newfound awareness into recently started projects. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Online group activities that you attend today are likely to be spiritually oriented, such as group meditations. You could communicate with new friends from faraway places who share your interests. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Some vivid and wonderful dreams might provide inspiration for future creative projects. You're feeling cheerful and optimistic now, and your enthusiasm is likely to continue. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Some vivid and wonderful dreams might provide inspiration for future creative projects. You're feeling cheerful and optimistic now, and your enthusiasm is likely to continue.
The spat between Koepka and DeChambeau seemed to reach its zenith in recent weeks when the former posted a social media video offering free beer to fans who were ejected from an event for heckling the latter. DeChambeau’s tactic of overpowering a typically tricky US Open course worked when he took the title in 2020 and he has promised to “bomb and gouge” his way round Torrey Pines. Koepka seemed to have control of the course after starting his round on the 10th hole and took the solo lead with his fourth birdie of the day on the second - his 11th hole. But the two-time PGA Championship winner unravelled somewhat with bogeys on the third and seventh, before finishing off with two pars to card a twounder 69. Mickelson started more sluggishly and struggled to find the fairway, bogeying three of his first six holes, and a birdie on his eighth hole did little to fix the damage with two more bogeys before he was home. Should the left-hander turn things around, he will be only the sixth man to have won all four of the men’s majors and his win in May has given fans reason to hope as he contests his 30th US Open.
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Vietnam make history as last-12 finalised in Asia
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he curtain finally came down on Asia’s second r o u n d o f qualifying for the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar™ with the last 12 line-up complete after the closing match day. Eight teams shored up passage on Tuesday - Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, IR Iran, Iraq, Oman, Lebanon, China PR and Vietnam – to join the already-qualified Japan, Australia, Syria and Korea Republic in the third round. These teams will be divided into two groups of six with the draw taking place on 1 July. The sides will battle against each other across seven months from 2 September 2021 – 29 March 2022 with the top two in each group qualifying for Qatar 2022, while the two thirdplaced teams will advance to the fourth round play-off. Vietnam proved the biggest surprise package by sealing maiden progression to the third round. Uzbekistan, conversely, were eliminated in unexpected fashion after losing to Saudi Arabia on the final match day. Meanwhile, Iran, China and UAE all overcame erratic form early
in this campaign with a strong finish to progress. Memorable moments Early progression: Japan became the first side to secure a place in the third round, with a 10-0 drubbing of Myanmar sending them through with two games to spare. Joining them as second qualified team were an impressive Syria, who advanced by beating Guam 3-0 in the penultimate match. Australia sealed early progression with seven
straight victories, including a 3-0 defeat of Nepal in the penultimate match day, while a 2-1 narrow win against Lebanon in the closing match saw Korea Republic advance as group winners. Powerful comeback: While eight qualified teams left it late, three of those nations impressed by sealing qualification with four wins on the trot. In the process, both Iran and United Arab Emirates rallied to stage
UEFA ‘warns it will take the Euro 2020 final AWAY from Wembley and move it to Hungary
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ailOnline UEFA have threatened to relocate the Euro 2020 final to Hungary unless the Government provides a quarantine exemption for 2,500 VIP officials. England are due to host the tournament’s semifinal and final at Wembley with the latter taking place on Sunday July 11. However, UEFA are said to be discussing their options given the current quarantine restrictions in the UK. UEFA have said they are prepared to change the venue if the hosting city are under Covid restrictions that could prevent fans, officials and important corporate guests from attending the games. According to The Times, UK Ministers are now discussing a proposal to exempt UEFA and FIFA officials, politicians, sponsors and broadcasters from having to self-isolate. As it stands, a ten-day
isolation is required for people arriving from countries that are on the amber or red list - and to make matters worse every team in the European Championship is currently on the UK’s amber list (apart from Turkey who are on the red list). However, the exemption would allow 2,500 VIP’s to attend games at Wembley during the knockout stages. It would also allow them to watch each team’s training sessions and attend UK government meetings without undergoing a period of isolation. Should ministers decide against the exemption, UEFA will move the Euro 2020 final to Budapest in Hungary as they will have no boarder restrictions within the Schengen zone as of next week. Budapest would also have the ability to fill stadiums to their max capacity and entertain fans
powerful comeback and win their respective groups despite floundering early in this campaign. China, under new boss Li Tie, emerged unstoppable including defeating group winners Syria 3-1 in the closing match to progress as one of the best runners-up. Return to the elite: Both Oman and Lebanon sealed their return to the third round after missing out on the decisive stage on the road to Russia 2018. Despite losing
to group winners Qatar in the return match, the Omanis claimed three straight wins to secure their place among the five best second-place finishers to progress. Lebanon, who finishing second in their group just a point clear of Turkmenistan, only saw their progression confirmed after both Jordan and Uzbekistan lost in the closing match day. Breakthrough for Vietnam: This campaign saw the emergence of
Vietnam, who made history by sealing maiden progression into the third round. Having reached the last eight in the 2019 AFC Asian Cup, the team continued to make progress on the continental stage under coach Park Hangseo. Entering the back-end of the campaign as group leaders, the Vietnamese registered back-to-back victories against Indonesia and Malaysia and advanced as one of the best second placed finishers, despite narrowly losing to hosts UAE 3-2 in the concluder. Heart-breaking nearmiss: It proved a painful night for Uzbekistan, whose hopes of a first FIFA World Cup were shattered after losing to Saudi Arabia 3-0 in the closing matchday. It is the first time that the Central Asians have suffered an exit at this stage since joining AFC in 1994, having reached the final qualifying round in each of the past six World Cups. Did you know? Australia and Japan maintained an unblemished record during their second round campaign, winning eight from eight and conceding just two goals each.
UEFA will move the final to Hungary unless the English government provides a quarantine exemption for 2,500 VIP’s
from all across the globe for the final taking place in July. Whereas Wembley would only be at 50 per cent of its 90,000 capacity for the semifinal and final this summer regardless of the exemption. UK minister are eager to stop the relocation of the Euro 2020 final and are said
to be discussing the public health risks associated with the relaxed measures. The government are said to be particularly focused the Delta and Indian variant of the virus and will look into the affect the relaxed measure may have before agreeing to any form of
exemption. However, the exemption would boost England’s 2030 World Cup bid as it would allow Boris Johnson to meet senior figures from UEFA. It would provide the Prime Minister with the opportunity to secure the required backing and could
potentially see the country land their first international tournament since 1996. Nevertheless, the decision to relax restrictions for Euro 2020 could cause controversy among the British public after having their holiday’s restricted for the past year.
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Friday June 18, 2021
Eight teams confirmed for Final Round of Concacaf WCQ
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iami, Florida – With the results of the S e c o n d Round of Concacaf World Cup Qualifying for Qatar 2022 complete, the eight teams for the Final Round of Concacaf WCQ are now confirmed. Mexico, United States, Costa Rica, Honduras, Jamaica, Panama, Canada and El Salvador will begin the Final Round of WCQ in early September, starting a schedule of 14 match days that will conclude in March 22. The top three teams in the standings at the conclusion of the Final Round will qualify directly for the 2022
FIFA World Cup in Qatar, while the fourth-place team will advance to a two-legged Inter-Confederation Playoff series in June 2022. Panama, Canada and El Salvador all advanced to the Final Round after finishing first in their group in the First Round of CWCQ, before winning their respective two-legged Second Round series.On aggregate scores, Panama edged Curacao 2-1, Canada downed Haiti 4-0 and El Salvador defeated Saint Kitts and Nevis 6-0 in the Second Round. Canada will be participating in the Final Round of CWCQ for the first time since France 1998, while El Salvador make their
first appearance in the Final Round of CWCQ since South Africa 2010. Jamaica are also back in the Final Round of CWCQ for the first time since Brazil 2014. Mexico, U.S., Costa Rica, Honduras and Panama all took part in the Final Round of CWCQ for Russia 2018.
National Senior Championships starts today - International flavor added to the mix By Calvin Chapman he highly anticipated three-day national Senior Athletics Championships begins this afternoon from 17:00hrs at the National Track & Field Center (NTFC), Leonora and concludes at the same venue on Sunday evening. Many of Guyana’s leading and overseasbased athletes have arrived for the championships, including the likes of Jasmine & Aliyah Abrams, Arinze Chance, Jeremy Bascom and Emanuel Archibald. However, President of the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG); Aubrey Huston, has indicated that more overseas based athletes are expected, both Guyanese and non-nationals. During a press brief on Wednesday at the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) Headquarters, Hutson indicated that there is a triple-jumper from Suriname along with an athlete from Belize already registered. He further noted that, “It will be a packed event and many local clubs are trying to get more than their allocated three athletes per event competing. There will be prize monies for the top three athletes in each event but the clubs will be responsible for using that money to further the development of junior athletes since monies aren’t awarded to junior athletes, especially if they are aspiring to gain sport-scholarships in the US.” He further noted that all systems are in place for a safe and exciting event. AAG Carifta Games Local Organising Committee (LOC) member, Leeron Brummel, who was also on hand at the press brief, highlighted that the AAG has received permission from the National Covid-19 Task Force to host the event in closed doors. “Just the athletes, officials, coaches will be at the venue”,
El Salvador, Panama and Canada all advanced to the Final Round after finishing first in their group in the First Round of CWCQ, before winning their respective two-legged Second Round series.
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Lawson Craddock
Jeremy Bascom Brummel shared. He added, “We are still determining whether we will stream the event but in terms of the media, we are attempting to have high class photos and results readily available at the event or remotely, almost immediately.” Guyana is set to host the 50th Carifta Games in 2022 or 2023 and Brummel revealed that the LOC will be looking at the systems put in place for the National Senior Championships over the three days to determine what works and what will need tweaking to ensure that the prestigious regional junior athletics showpiece is successful.
Lawson Craddock wins men’s US time trial title Cycling News Newly-appointed Olympic team member Lawson Craddock (EF Education-Nippo) won his first time trial national title since he was a junior a decade ago, winning the US P r o Ti m e Tr i a l Championship on Thursday in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Craddock finished the 34.9-kilometre course in Oak Ridge, Tennessee in a
time of 41:33. In a replication of the last edition of Pro Road Nationals in 2019, Chad Haga (Team DSM) finished second. Tejay van Garderen (EF Education-Nippo) completed the podium in third. Haga was 17 seconds slower for the silver medal with a time of41:51, while Van Garderen was another 29 seconds back for bronze
in 42:03. Joey Rosskopf, who took back-to-back wins in 2017 and 2018, clocked a time of 42:09 to finish fourth. A total of five WorldTour riders started the time trial and other than Rosskopf flying the orange colours of ProTeam Rally Cycling, the international-level riders took the top spots, including Will Barta (EF EducationNippo) finishing fifth.
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Track star Chance is Powerade’s Fully vaccinated fans in Saint Lucia new Brand Ambassador to attend 2nd Betway Test Match US-based Arinze Chance, who is Guyana’s Indoor 400m record holder, has been named Powerade Brand Ambassador following a signing ceremony at Thirst Park yesterday. Chance, who is in Guyana for the National Senior Track and Field championships in his quest to qualify for the forthcoming Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo, signed the agreement to represent the international sports drink, which is produced by Coca-Cola and distributed locally by Banks DIH Limited. The University of South Carolina (USC) graduate will be competing in the
men’s 200m and 400m events at the championships slated for the National Track & Field Center (NTFC) from today to Sunday. Jennifer Khan, Banks DIH’s Coca Cola Brand Executive, said Chance is the ideal role model to represent the brand. “This agreement took some time to materialise but we are extremely happy to have Arinze on board, he is an exemplary athlete and we expect great things from him,” Ms. Khan posited. Chance has excelled both in athletics and academics and at USC, he was named 2020 Indoor All-American (4x 400 metres Relay), 2019 Indoor First-Team AllAmerican (4x400 m Relay),
2019 Outdoor First-Team All-American (4x400 Relay) and 2019 Indoor SecondTeam All-American (400m). A c a d e m i c a l l y, t h e former Queen’s College and Bishops’ High student was made the 2019 and 2020 Google Cloud Academic All-American and was on the University’s 2019 and 2020 SEC Academic Honour Roll. He also made the 201718 SEC First-Year Academic Honour Roll. Also present at the signing were Chance’s father, Philip, Banks DIH C o m p a n y Secretary/Corporate Legal Officer Kavorn-Kyte Williams, Communications Manager Troy Peters among other officials.
World Test Championship final:
New Zealand and India ‘excited’ for historic final
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BCsport - “It is exciting. It is a one-off and we know in cricket anything can happen.” New Zealand captain Kane Williamson knows better than most that almost anything can indeed happen on a cricket field. Now the Black Caps, two years on from their agonising World Cup final defeat, meet all-powerful India as the two sides play for cricketing history. Over the next five - possibly six days in Southampton, one of the two nations will be crowned the first Test world champions. “I have no doubt it will be widely followed and fans all
around the world are excited to watch it unfold,” Williamson added. “We are just fortunate to be involved in it.” Though doubters remain, the inaugural, Covid-19-hit edition of the World Test Championship has served up an intriguing, showpiece final featuring the two standout men’s Test teams, each packed with world-class talent. “This is not one-day cricket or a Twenty20 game that is finished in a few hours,” India captain Virat Kohli said. “This is a hard grind over a period of five days and something we take a lot of pride in. “We understand the type
of cricket we have played to get here in the final. We are just excited to get on the field and start this Test match.” India XI: Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammad Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma. New Zealand squad: Kane Williamson (c), Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Matt Henry, K y l e J a m i e s o n , To m Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Will Young.
Darren Bravo and Shannon Gabriel recalled for 2nd Betway Test Match vs South Africa Gros Islet, Saint Lucia – The Cricket West Indies Selection Panel today named the 13-member West Indies Men’s squad for the second and final Betway Test match against South Africa, starting on Friday, June 18. The panel recalled fast bowler Shannon Gabriel and left-handed batsman Darren Bravo. Roger Harper, Lead Selector said: “Shannon Gabriel has been declared fully fit and as someone who was the spearhead of the attack before, he has returned to the 13-man squad. With Bravo, we have someone who is an experienced batsman and gives us a quality batting option.” On the upcoming match, Harper added, “The team now has to play to the standard we know we’re capable of. We didn’t bat anywhere near to our potential in the first Betway Test and we have to improve with the bat in this upcoming match.” Note: Nkrumah Bonner is unavailable for selection due to concussion protocol. He was
substituted during the first Betway Test. The second Betway Test Match bowls off on Friday, June 18 at 10am (9am Jamaica Time) at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground. The series will be contested for the Sir Vivian Richards Trophy. Fans in the Caribbean can watch live on Flow Sports or via the Flow Sports app. Live radio commentary is available on the Windies Cricket YouTube channel and on a number of local radio stations across the Caribbean. Fans also follow live ball by ball scoring in the www.windiescricket.com live match centre, featuring the new live match blog. West Indies: Kraigg Brathwaite (Captain), Jermaine Blackwood (Vice Captain), Darren Bravo, Roston Chase, Rahkeem Cornwall, Joshua Da Silva, Shannon Gabriel, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Kyle Mayers, Kieran Powell, Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales.
ros Islet, Saint Lucia – A small number of fully vaccinated cricket fans in Saint Lucia will have the chance to see West Indies take on South Africa. Following the request from the Government of St. Lucia to explore the opportunity to have fans at the game, the Ministry of Health and Covid-19 Command Centre, in co-ordination with the St. Lucia National Cricket Association (SLNCA) and Cricket West Indies (CWI) will allow entry of a maximum of 400 fans per day to the second Betway Test match at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground, starting today. The key requirement for fans to attend is that each fan requesting a ticket MUST be fully vaccinated – with the second dose of the Covid-19 vaccine having been administered on or before June 4. Admission will be free on presentation and validation of personal vaccination documentation and photo ID. Tickets for all match days will only be available from yesterday, June 17 to today,
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June 18 from 4pm to 6pm at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground ticket office located at the East Gate. It is the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic that fans will be admitted to see the West Indies team in action on home soil. Fans will need to wear facemasks to gain entry to the match and then keep wearing masks throughout the match. Fans will also need to remain socially distanced at all times when seated in the Johnson Charles Stand, which will be the only stand open for fans. Johnny Grave, CEO of CWI said: “The Government of St. Lucia has initiated this
pilot project which will allow for the safe return of fans to watch international cricket for the first time in the West Indies since the start pandemic. “We are happy to support the initiative by welcoming supporters into the stands for free to see their favourite West Indies team in action. A lot of detailed planning has gone into making this a reality and we thank the Government of St Lucia, the health officials, as well as the SLNCA who, together with CWI have worked tirelessly to ensure we can accommodate those fans fortunate enough to benefit from this opportunity.”
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Friday June 18, 2021
De Bruyne sends Belgium into last 16 with thrilling win over Denmark Kevin de Bruyne
Andriy Yarmolenko celebrates scoring the opener for Ukraine. Robert Ghement/Pool/AFP via Getty Images
Ukraine earn first win at Euro 2020 BBCsport - Ukraine bounced back from their opening defeat at Euro 2020 as they held on to beat tournament debutants North Macedonia in an entertaining encounter in Bucharest. Having fought back from two goals down before ultimately losing 3-2 to the Netherlands on Sunday, Andriy Shevchenko’s side ended a run of six successive European Championship defeats to remain in contention in Group C. Captain Andriy Yarmolenko capitalised on poor defending from a corner after 28 minutes,
before the West Ham forward’s pass set up Roman Yaremchuk, who slotted neatly into the bottom corner five minutes later. Leeds United’s Ezgjan Alioski followed up his own saved penalty to hand a much-improved North Macedonia a second-half lifeline, but they could not find an equaliser despite goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski saving Ruslan Malinovskiy’s penalty in the closing stages. Ukraine were one defeat away from recording the longest losing streak in the competition’s history and, having been the first side to
be eliminated at Euro 2016, they made their early dominance count to avoid a similar fate in a lively contest. Dimitrievski turned away a fierce shot from Malinovskiy and Stefan Ristovski produce a fine sliding challenge to stop Ya r e m c h u k b e f o r e Yarmolenko’s deserved breakthrough. Napoli forward Eljif Elmas, 21, hit the side-netting from close range with a rare first-half chance for the Macedonians, while veteran striker Goran Pandev had a well-taken goal ruled out for offside before half-time.
Naomi Osaka: Four-time Grand Slam winner to miss Wimbledon but plans Olympics return
Osaka has twice reached the third round at the All England Club
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BCsport - Japan’s Naomi Osaka will not play at Wimbledon this year but is planning to return in time for the Tokyo Olympics. The four-time Grand Slam champion will spend time with friends and family having also withdrawn from the French Open in May. At the time, Osaka, 23, said she would be taking a break from tennis after experiencing depression and anxiety. The world number two says she is “excited to play in front of her home fans” in Tokyo. Osaka was fined $15,000 (£10,570) for not taking part in a news conference following her first round match at Roland Garros. Grand Slam organisers said she could face expulsion from the tournament should she refuse to take part in media duties. But the player withdrew from the
tournament the following day, saying she needed to “protect her mental health”. “When the time is right I really want to work with the Tour to discuss ways we can make things better for the players, press and fans,” she added at the time. Wimbledon’s chief executive Sally Bolton had earlier revealed the All England Club (AELTC) had been in contact with Osaka’s team and was actively looking at ways to improve its media operations. “We have started a consultation,” she told BBC Radio 4’s Today Programme. “Of course, that consultation needs to include not just the players, but the media and all of those engaged in that space.” Wimbledon tournament director Jamie Baker said on Wednesday that he had told Osaka’s entourage that the phone lines were always open to discuss any issues that might arise.
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BCsport - Kevin de Bruyne inspired Belgium to a comeback win against Denmark that secured their place in the last 16 of Euro 2020 as fans and players paid tribute to Danish midfielder Christian Eriksen, who is recovering after suffering cardiac arrest. Eriksen is in hospital after he collapsed on the pitch at the Parken Stadium during Saturday’s game against Finland. Tributes were paid to Denmark’s talismanic number 10 before and during the game, with play stopped in the 10th minute as players, officials and supporters joined together for a minute’s applause. That came after Yussuf Poulsen gave the hosts a dream start just one minute and 39 seconds into the game, slotting in after a mistake in the Belgium defence. De Bruyne was sent on at the start of the second half and the Manchester City midfielder changed the game.
He played a part in the equaliser, receiving a pass from Romelu Lukaku before superbly finding Thorgan Hazard to fire home, and then drove in the winner with 20 minutes remaining after a brilliant move started by Lukaku. Martin Braithwaite went close to a late equaliser for Denmark but his header skimmed the top of the bar. Victory means Belgium are top of Group B with six points from two games while Denmark are bottom of the standings with zero points. Denmark were making their return to the Parken Stadium for the first time since those shocking scenes of Eriksen collapsing on the pitch at the weekend. Both sets of fans showed their support for the player with messages to him on banners in the stands, while the conclusion of the Danish national anthem was greeted with a huge roar, one that was surpassed barely two minutes later when Denmark took the lead after an error in Belgian defence.
Talisman Memphis Depay put the hosts ahead from the spot
Netherlands beat Austria to make last 16 The Netherlands booked their spot in last 16 at Euro 2020 as they saw off Austria in Amsterdam to win Group C with a game to spare. Frank de Boer’s side, who beat Ukraine in their opening fixture, look to be hitting their stride as they outclassed the visitors in front of 12,000 fans at the Johan Cruyff Arena. Ta l i s m a n M e m p h i s Depay put the hosts ahead from the spot after David Alaba brought down flying wing-back Denzel Dumfries, who capped a fine performance by adding the second from a swift break in the second half. The Dutch, who failed to qualify for the past two major tournaments, are into the knockout stages at the European Championship for the first time since 2008. Austria started their campaign with victory over North Macedonia and their progression will be decided in the final group match against Ukraine.
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Friday June 18, 2021
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Raymond ‘Steely’ Newton to compete Phantom take Champion of at 2021 Harlem Skyscraper Champions dominoes title Cycling Classic on Sunday Phantom registered 74
Raymond ‘Steely’ Newton
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eteran Guyanese c y c l i s t , R a y m o n d ‘Steely’ Newton, a member of We Stand United Cycle Club is set to compete at N e w Yo r k ’s P r e m i e r e Professional/Amateur and Community Cycling event, 2021 Harlem Skyscraper Cycling Classic, this Sunday, Father’s Day. The 56 year-old Newton whose son Aaron is the 2021 Junior National Road Race champion will be competing in two categories in Sunday’s race which is in its 46th year. The day starts with kids’
races before moving on to adult amateurs and, finally, the main competition with professional cyclists. Newton has informed that he would be competing in the Pro Elite Men Cat. (1/2) as well as the William Montgomery Masters (Cat 1 thru 3 – 40+ (Male). The Harlem Skyscraper Cycling Classic races along the outer border of Harlem’s Marcus Garvey Park (formerly and also named Mount Morris Park) which is located in the village of Harlem, in the New York City borough of Manhattan. Banks DIH/Carlton
Audrey Cordon-Ragot. Getty Images Cycling News - Audrey Cordon-Ragot (Trek-Segafredo) remains far behind Jeannie Longo who claimed eleven gold medals since the French national championship for time trialing was introduced back in 1995 in Les Herbiers where the prestigious Chrono des Nations ITT is still organised as an end to normal European seasons. The 31-year-old Breton cyclist who took her first blue, white and red jersey for road racing on home soil in August last year claimed her fifth title against the clock in
Wheelers Cycle Club Father’s Day Road Race – On the local scene, Carlton Wheelers Cycle Club in association with Banks DIH under their Malta Supreme and Rainforest Water brands will be hosting a 44-mile event this Sunday from Schoonord, West Bank Demerara, proceeding to Bushy Park, Parika before returning to the starting line for the finish. Race time is 08:00hrs, the top six overall seniors will receive cash prizes as will the top three juniors, juveniles, ladies and veterans.
Audrey CordonRagot wins women’s French time trial title Epinal in the East of France after dominating the event consecutively from 2015 to 2018. She outclassed defending champion Juliette Labous (Team DSM), by almost thirty seconds on the 26.3km course while Cédrine Kerbaol (Team Arkéa), aged 20 and also from Brittany, rounded out the podium with a deficit of 1:17. The latter was the first starter and occupied the hot seat for most of the event. Cordon-Ragot will defend her other blue, white and red jersey in tomorrow’s road race.
games to win the Champion of Champions dominoes competition which was contested on Sunday last at R and R Sports Club, Meadowbrook. Spartons and Providence were tied on 72 games each but Spartons took the runner-up spot after making more sixes. Martin Permaul made the maximum 18 games which earned him the Most Valuable Player prize while Tyrone Ambrose supported with 16 for the winners. Roberto Osborne scored 16 and John Chance 14 for the runners-up side while Junior Smith and Shawn Davis made 16 and 15 respectively for Providence. Phantom chalked up 84 games to win the semi-final while Providence placed second with 77 games and Gangster third on 70. Rawle Cameron scored 16 and Ambrose 14 for Phantom while Smith marked 16 and Davis 15 for Providence. Shellon Collymore and
Raulston Cameron, Phantom’s Captain displays the winning trophy. Stevens Collymore made 15 each for Gangster. Phantom pocketed a trophy and $175,000 while Spartons received a trophy and $75,000, Providence collected a trophy and
$35,000 and Gangster $15,000. The competition was sponsored by Trophy Stall, Shawn Azeez, Spartons, Lenders Jewellery and Pawn Shop and Executive and Dynasty.