K
AIETEUR NEWS
Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly
Health workers get candid about
Thursday Edition October 01, 2020 - Vol. 13 No. 39
p. Online: www.kaieteurnews.com 7 Online Price $80
COVID-19 related struggles
readership yesterday, 124,965
US$9 billion Payara project approved for 2024 startup Accept us as a Coalition criticizes p. 3
p. 15
legal govt. before government’s p.8 - President Ali we speak to Harmon approach to COVID-19
Three years jail for man who had sex with COVID-19 infected corpse Prime suspect in E-Networks launches taxi driver’s 2015 5G internet-services 20 Mbps for murder captured in Guyana $8,990 monthly p. 11
p. 18
p. 3
Winston Brassington faces intense cross-examination in lawsuit over “Dem Boys Seh” p. 8
Why is the APNU+AFC silent on the carting off of our oil blocks?
The APNU and AFC are adding little value to Guyana’s politics. To the disgust of many, they are focused too much on power and too little on the country’s progress. While the country’s riches are being carted off, the main parliamentary opposition is not raising a word of objection. In this instance, the main opposition party is no different from the ruling PPP/C. Why are APNU and AFC at one with the PPP/C in saying nothing about the plundering of our oil and the disappearance of oil blocks into unknown private hands? What are the real roles of APNU and AFC in this national disaster? Why do they have nothing to say or refuse to be critical of their main adversary’s handling of these issues? We have to ask whether they are in bed with or on the same page as the PPP/C when it comes to the disappearance of the Canje and Kaieteur Blocks and the review of the Payara Field Development Plan? We agree that the pandemic, the budget and the appointment of office holders of the Regional Democratic Councils are important. However, what can be more important than ensuring that our country gets a better deal for its oil wealth? The APNU and the AFC can serve Guyanese better if they are hawkeyed over our oil. Yet, they are curiously silent. We challenge the opposition to join with us in seeking answers about the Canje and Kaieteur Blocks. We have been doing so every day for years now. Where are the APNU and the AFC? When are they going to advocate for greater transparency and accountability when it comes to our resources?
No touching oil money - Pres. Ali until sweeping reforms
p. 18
Who really owns the Kaieteur and Canje Oil Blocks, do the leaders of this land care to tell the nation?
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Thursday October 01, 2020
Thursday October 01, 2020
Kaieteur News
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E-Networks launches 5G US$9B Payara project internet services in Guyana approved for 2024 startup - 20 Mbps for $8,990 monthly A
From left: Anand Gohil, CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited; Alistair Routledge, President of ExxonMobil Guyana; Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat and Timothy Christian, Director, Vice President of Hess Guyana Exploration By Kemol King
M
inister of N a t u r a l Resources, Vickram Bharrat yesterday approved ExxonMobil's third field development in the Stabroek Block, the Payara project. The oil major said, after making its final investment decision (FID) yesterday, that the Prosperity Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel will start production in 2024 at up to 220,000 barrels of oil per day. The hull for the vessel is with Dutch firm, SBM Offshore in Singapore awaiting the installation of its topside modules. ExxonMobil said that 10 drill centers are planned along with up to 41 wells, including 20 production and 21 injection wells. Notably, the company
stated in a release yesterday that the Payara development will cost US$9B to produce 600 million oil-equivalent barrels. This is US$3B higher than its US$6B estimate for the Liza Phase Two project, which will be producing at a similar peak rate from a reserve with a similar volume estimate. Liza Phase Two is projected to start producing in 2022. The Liza Unity FPSO is currently under construction in Singapore as well. Guyana's review of Payara spanned two administrations. The former D a v i d G r a n g e r administration had contracted the UK firm, Bayphase, to review it despite ExxonMobil forming part of Bayphase's clientele. The environmental issues, among others, which arose during this review,
were not raised by Bayphase. After all, the firm is not expected to give reports which do not flatter its clients. The former Government had expected the review to be completed early this year, but the contentious 2020 General and Regional Elections took centre stage and prolonged government's approval of the project. When the Irfaan Ali administration took over in August, it asked Canada to assist it with the review. That consultation resulted in former Alberta Premier, Alison Redford, being accepted to lead the review of BayPhase's work. She worked with a team of technical experts, funded by Canada. Despite questions about Redford's capability to review field development plans (FDP), as well as (continued on page 16)
s the global p a n d e m i c continues to expose the economies of developing countries, there is good news for the Guyana telecoms sector. A locally owned company, E-Networks Inc., has announced the launching of its 5G internet services. '5G' is next generation wireless network technology that is expected to change the way people live and work. It will be faster and able to handle more connected devices than the existing 4G LTE network, improvements that will enable a wave of new kinds of tech products. 5G networks began rolling out in the United States and around the world in 2018. E-Networks, which has been described as the premier provider of television and internet services in Guyana, in a statement, disclosed that new services are exciting additions to its internet options for homes and b u s i n e s s e s . “Earlier this year, ENetworks rolled out a 4G network in Georgetown, from Enmore to Grove, and in La Parfaite Harmonie. This network delivered 20 Mbps of home internet service at a very affordable price point of$8,990 monthly (VAT inclusive).” The company also said
Enetworks Managing Director, Vishok Persaud
that in keeping with its commitment to keep improving services for its customers, it has expanded the coverage area to include Cornelia Ida, Schoonord and Tu s c h e n , i n t h e We s t Demerara area. At the same time, it has unveiled its new 5G service – the first of its kind in Guyana. “E-Networks' 5G service, which uses the latest generation of wireless connectivity globally, is designed to meet today's growing internet demands, and deliver faster speeds at lower pricing to the (continued on page 15)
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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
How banks collude with criminals
L
ast week, the troubling news items came in quick succession. First, Reuters on September 21st revealed, “FinCen documents reportedly show banks moved illicit funds - Buzzfeed ICIJ.” And, second, from the BBC’s online edition of September 21st, there was this caption, “FinCen files - All you need to know about document leaks.” Both news services provided insights into the ways of money laundering criminals utilizing major international banks to undermine the global financial system. For purposes of edification, FinCen means the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network and is part of the U.S. Department of the Treasury, while the ICIJ is the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists. From the BBC’s coverage of events, the information is “about $2tn of transactions” allowed to enter, slosh around, and contaminate the global financial network. Two trillion dollars (and we are talking in US dollars here) represent a lot of dirty cash attempted to be cleaned and actually sanitized with the help, or purposeful, knowledge of big banks. It is not a surprise that this is still going on, for criminals to find ways to influence people and get things done. It must be remembered that even the most robust regulatory and watchdog systems require human interactions to oversee day to day, to clear the way, to grant exceptions, to make the work and business move in tandem with objectives and expectations. The criminally minded have their illegal objectives, which includes probing and gaming the barriers at reputable financial institutions to gain a foothold. They are then made to dance to the tunes that criminals call, so that dirty cash can be inserted into the system and go through the whole sanitizing process with legitimate appearing cash being the result. Almost in lockstep, bank overseers and line managers are saddled with the expectations of shareholders and the objectives of boards and upper level executives to deliver profits and better returns on a continuing basis. One significant source of such profits and returns is the hundreds of billions netted from criminal activity and which are now introduced into the business of financial institutions. Said another way, the big criminals - drug barons, major arms smugglers, purveyors of corrupt activities, and terrorist financiers - all have in their possession big money looking for the big outlets that can accommodate easily and seamlessly the amounts of cash that they have ready for deposit. In banks, career advancement, monetary regards, and continuing income statement prosperity result. Everybody wins: shareholders are happy to reap the benefits, delivering executives stand tall among their peers, contributing employees are recognized, and the criminals pull another fast one and get away with lawbreaking, through the aiding and abetting that comes from willing hands and minds on the inside of huge private sector institutions worldwide. According to the BBC report, there are 2500 documents that detail disturbing developments over a 17-year period and, as a reminder, involving “about 2tn dollars.” Incidentally, that enormous amount covers “only a tiny proportion of the SARs submitted over the period.” At the heart of this mess is the way that the banks operate. They cover their tracks by filing what are called SARs (Suspicious Activity Reports) with regulatory agencies, but then sit back and do nothing else. They continue to do business with the same people suspected and reported. As the BBC’s article pointed out, “it’s not enough to file SARs and keep taking dirty money from clients while expecting the authorities to deal with the problem. If they have evidence of criminal activity, they should stop moving the cash.” Among the banks identified as sitting on their hands are HSBC, JP Morgan Chase, and Deutsche Bank, among others. Russian oligarchs, one English Premier League club
Thursday October 01, 2020
LASTING LEGACIES
DEAR EDITOR, The Greek poet, Menander said, “The spoken word is man’s physician in grief. For this alone has soothing charms for the soul.” Our times together were uniquely crafted, coveted, complicated, and guarded, so our discussions would go deep. Having the ability to sense and know what I was thinking, we would connect on areas such as: manufacturing, economics and politics. I admired his drive and dedication to be “hands on” for so long, al-
ways thinking about business, perhaps even while he slept. Like Menander, Proverbs 15:4 says, “Gentle words bring life and health.” Since my life had already set sail, his words of blessings, love and challenge to pursue excellence resonated, affirming the charted course, even with my children. As my father, his greatest legacy to me are his words affirming my identity, that I had done well, and should “put all of who I am into my
children,” his grandchildren. Clearly, one of his legacies to Guyana is that every child can aspire to make a difference in Guyana, despite their beginnings. They can solve problems, add value, and contribute, not just to their personal growth, but to Guyana’s and their fellow countrymen. With the dawn of a new government filled with young people, the torches are being passed to others. What legacies will be sown, what improvements can be made for
generations to come, and what positive changes are on the horizon for Guyana? The new generations at the helm of Guyana’s various sectors can leave lasting legacies that benefit all Guyanese today and tomorrow. The most beautiful things in the world are non-material things that are felt with the heart. Toolsie Persaud, your strong raspy voice and words remain. Dad, I carry you in my heart forever. Yours truly, Sherene Persaud Wanner
I intend to run for President of Guyana in 2025
DEAR EDITOR, After years of resisting every single suggestion from various individuals, both in and out of Guyana, I have finally decided to run for President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, in 2025. I share the view of many Guyanese, that our leaders for the past 53 years have not capitalized on the excellent opportunities, which we have given to them to govern our country in an inclusive way for the benefit of all Guyanese, and to create an environment where our institutions, citizens and society could evolve with dignity, integrity and be accountable. After 53 years as an independent nation, I find it unacceptable that, up to recently, we were the second poorest country in the West-
ern Hemisphere. Thankfully, oil and gas will now change that trajectory. I find it unacceptable that our women are the protectors, as perhaps the majority labour force in the security sector, and many of our retired women too. I find it unacceptable that our children between the ages of 15 and 24 are categorized as the main group of criminals in our society. I find it unacceptable that we have not learnt to co-exist on all levels, after 53 years as an Independent country. As President, I intend to work with the Guyanese people to refocus Guyana, or rather focus the country – at the individual, institutional and societal levels, on the great things that we can achieve as a nation. I intend to build robust
and diverse teams with skills and expertise from every corner of Guyana and all sides of the political and other aspects of the society; to find solutions to our challenges and to build on the positive things, which obtain currently, and from our past. The theme on which I will run for President will be around: Using our diversity in a complementary way and not in a competitive way’. Many persons have said to me that they will not vote again, I am now signaling to those persons and all Guyanese, that I will give you a reason or many reasons, to vote again. Guyana is a beautiful and richly endowed country and Guyanese are talented, hardworking, dedicated and among the best people in the world.
Please give me an opportunity to bring out the best in us, as a people and together, we will collaborate and partner with others to get the best for our country’s growth and development. I/we will lead the country towards finally realizing our motto: One People, One Nation, One Destiny. I am convinced that with the right leadership, we can be better, we can do better, and we can build a future together that is competitive in the global context; we can provide strong national, regional and international leadership; and we can create a more stable economic and social environment in the country and the Caribbean region. Yours truly, Audreyanna Thomas
On the Trump nominee for the US Supreme Court DEAR EDITOR, I learn that the nominee for the U.S. Supreme Court, Ms. Amy Coney Barrett, is considered a problematic, even terrible, choice. There is the usual and the old, which is about religion. But there is another objection, arguably still more insidious. It is about race. The nominee is Roman Catholic. For whatever it matters, so am I. Because of her religious teaching and persuasion, it is feared that Roe v. Wade will inevitably be overturned. However and whenever that occurs is outside my range of interests. I have never been engaged enough in the abortion debates and positions that have raged, and which have occupied, improperly I believe, such a
central place in American politics and judicial calculations. I may agree that this could be criticized as a copout, but that is absorbable, since I have other priorities that mean more to me, such as immigration, equal opportunity, and the rights of minorities, to name a few. As for nominee Amy Barrett, she should be afforded the benefits and dignities attached to possessing the intellectual instincts and attitudes, which enable and empower her to be a prudent and independent thinker, actor, and adjudicator in America’s highest judicial arena. This is what we would expect-even demand-of ourselves, from those chosen to operate in the areas to which aspired, and actually serve.
owner, and a close associate of Vladimir Putin have all been fingered as participants in dirty money activity and coverups. One expert in the Reuters report articulated that what happened “poses grave threats to society as a whole.” Big criminal enterprises flourish unhindered, legitimate businesses are stifled, clean governance is undermined, and rampant corruption lives on. This is an acute problem for Guyana, where the EU elections report highlighted the un-sourced money that financed our recent elections. Since favours are owed, successful politicians usually must deliver, which undermines larger society.
Now this may be rightly objected to for going too easy on Ms. Barrett. I prefer, however, to focus and lend time and energies to those priorities held high and close. I identify governance and ethical leadership; conscientious professional stewardship; character and standards that speak for themselves; and matters of race. Since no man is an island and of necessity, shares spaces, resources, and opportunities whether as givers or gatherers, as constructive presences or hateful people this is at the pinnacle of personal considerations. Because race has come to signify such a crucial component of human existence, I bring vision and give voice. In the instance of Ms. Barrett, I respond instinctively and intuitively to the racially disparaging, to the racially unthinking and racially unacceptable. According to the New York Post of September 27, a Boston University professor, a learned Black man, went public to denounce Ms. Barret as a ‘White colonizer.’ The foundation of his public position was that her two adopted children are nothing more than ‘props.’ I
mention that they are Black and Haitian. Surely, this wise man should know better. Surely, there are places that none should contemplate going. And, just as surely, there are those things and places that all of us should consider sacred, hence, inviolable. For when I question and condemn mixed race adoption, then the way is paved for dismissing all that is mixed, of a different kind and blend, of what will only be acceptable to me. Meaning, that it must be this way, the way favoured and forced. Using this as basis, I now drag Guyana into the cauldron, which I believe suits our situation. I point to mixed marriages (Indian and Black); partnerships (Black and Indian); shared neighbourhoods (of the same two) and conclude that, by the visions and positions of this Black professor, those are all inherently evil. Similarly, I suppose that shared governance (inclusive and however) assumes the devilish and hellish. As an aside, I identify this Guyanese embarrassment and failure. For over decade, (Continued on page 6)
Thursday October 01, 2020
Former Minster Sarabo-Halley should not speak about ‘irresponsibility’ DEAR EDITOR, Please permit me to respond to a statement from the Former Minister of Public Service, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley dated September 30, 2020. The former Minister lamented the Government’s decision for the return of a singular, most important center of any Government, the Office of the President, to full-time work as “irresponsible”. This duplicity and hypocrisy of this woman enhances our doubt that this bunch of people should never ever get to handle the affairs of the Guyanese people. However, I should start by defining what irresponsibility is. To the gentle lady, irresponsibility is when positive COVID-19 victims have to wait for their results to get confirmation from Ms. Lawrence before they could get to know their status. Irresponsibility is when you place a criterion that Guyanese must be symptomatic before they could be tested, despite Mr. & Mrs. Granger being asymptomatic and getting their tests done. Irresponsibility is when you have COVID-19 testing machine on the wharf for months. Irresponsibility is when you appoint a politically motivated taskforce rather than consult with technical expertise. Irresponsibility is when you could not have lobbied with vaccination companies to prioritize your country’s vaccination against the virus. Irresponsibility is when you can only do approximately 50 to seventy70 tests per day, as compared to 300 plus tests per day, merely because you lack the ability to speak to foreign countries for additional testing kits. Irresponsibility is when you mold people to protest every single week despite COVID-19; you molded people for the protest in support of Mingo, Lawrence, Lowenfield) and in the coming days you are now molding for Carol Smith and when the numbers skyrocketed, you dare say “irresponsible”. Irresponsibility is when you instructed the pathology teams not to test the dead for COVID-19 because you don’t want your numbers to show ‘big’. Probably, the former minister should express sympathy with those families who are under the impression that their family member died of some other disease rather than COVID-19. I could go on to list even more irresponsibilities by the previous regime but let me leave it here for the honourable lady to contemplate before she speaks. Guyana is maybe the first country to allow only one of-
fice to return full-time to work as compared to other countries. I shall draft a number of examples: 1. “The Australian Public Service Commission has directed public servants back to the office where it’s safe to do so in a move that could reset workplace standards, boost the economic recovery...”(Financial Review, 2020) 2. “... after the government urged companies to bring millions of white-collar workers back to their desks, in part to help revive city center economies...” (The Guardian, 2020) 3. “Schools Re-Open Monday Amid Covid-19 Fears” (The Voice, 2020) The Government merely got this particular office reopened and got termed “irresponsible” by a woman who still can’t tell the nation which political party she represents in Parliament. The gentle lady, went on further to state: “Staff even though not physically present were significantly more productive and got work done faster,” when every Guyanese could attest to the state their children were left in after the start of the pandemic, there was no plan or policies to teach the children, the scholarship department did no social media campaign on their scholarship availability and more unproductive
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behaviour surfaced and whose fault is this? Our public servants were most ready to work and serve from home, but the Government then, didn’t have any agenda to achieve, and as such we all, as citizens felt the squeeze. In addition, the former minister stated that “... the Public Service shifted to the rotation where no more than 50% of staff should be in any Government building...” while this is true, we saw the then government molding 100% of Guyanese onto the streets. This makes one question whether the attempt to get them out of the Government building was merely to protect themselves from the virus or was it truly a COVID19 precautionary measure? Further, the former minister said she was considering a substantial $100,000 allowances for the healthcare workers. In response, I would say to any Guyanese who believes this, then something is particularly wrong with you. These people are yet to fulfill their 90 days promise as they had so ‘considered’, also one should not forget the teachers who had to protest for their allowances, while their minister chose rather than to give the teachers their money, she sent unexpended sums of monies back to the Treasury. So I would guess, just as they (Continued on page 6)
It is saddening to see the destruction of historical wooden buildings
DEAR EDITOR, Some months ago, I was walking around the city with my camera; it was during the early days of COVID-19. I vividly remembered passing these historical wooden buildings on Quamina Street which I never get tired of admiring. There is just something special with me and these types of buildings in question –I am always passionate about their beauty. I did notice part of the structure was missing and I thought perhaps the owner might have
been doing some repairs. I passed again in a vehicle recently and noticed that this building was demolished – there was some sadness. Perhaps the owner could not afford to maintain and preserve the beauty of a building or perhaps there is a new owner. If there is anyone out there with any historical documented information of this building, I would love to have a reading and attach it to my photo image and keep as a reminder. Yours truly, T. Pemberton
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Thursday October 01, 2020
The PPP Government has shown its commitment to health workers in tangible ways in the COVID-19 fight
DEAR EDITOR, The PPP Government has shown its commitment to health workers in tangible ways in the COVID-19 fight. President Irfaan Ali spearheaded the allocation of $150M in Budget 2020 for health workers. Further mon-
ies will be made available in the 2021 Budget. The government and the health sector will continue to determine further ways to recognize the contributions of health workers. For those of us in the fight against COVID-19, we honour the work of the health workers
across the country. There must be no doubt of the high esteem, the Government and the people of Guyana have for health workers, particularly at this time. In addition to allocation of $150M in Budget 2020, the PPP government immediately upon assuming office in August ensured adequate access to PPE and other supplies for the protection of health workers. Since the beginning of August, more than $500M in additional PPE supplies have been procured from Government resources. This adds to the more than $300M in supplies that have been further provided from partner countries and organizations.
We continue to improve and expand the fight against COVID-19. For example, not only has the government increased PPE availability, we have expanded from an average of less than 25 tests per day before August, to more than 150 per day. We are expanding laboratory capacity to more than 1,000 tests per day within 2 weeks. Besides the public health laboratory, at least three private sector laboratories will be in a position to test with PCR technology for COVID-19. The laboratory is conducting more tests around the country and improving the turn-around time and there will be even further expansion. We have
started to expand ICU capacity and non-invasive oxygen therapy for COVID- 19 patients, not just in Georgetown, but in selected hospitals around the country. Guyana is now fully utilizing the latest medicines, such as remdesivir in treating patients. Prior to August, no special provisions were made for health workers. There was no recognition that health workers deserved additional support. Not only no financial provisions were made, there was a chronic shortage of PPE to protect workers. The government has changed this dispensation. In addition, the Government has begun the distribu-
On the Trump nominee for the US... From page 4 we have been paralyzed at finalizing the two highest positions in Guyana’s judiciary. The current placemats are forced to act out a charade. And it is because our leaders are held hostage by racial and practical considerations. The former contention may be scorned, but I deliver to the face; the latter is about who will decide how for our abortion issues, which are not of the right to life, but of the right to electoral and racial supremacy. Obviously, when racial narratives take hold, there is a mad bent, not on being in-
struments of progressive change, but of pursuing selfaggrandizing positions that feed frenzies. This happens when the entire order of relationships (discriminatory in parts, to be sure) is damned, unless it aligns perfectly with what pleases. If it is curing and beneficial, I am all for it. When otherwise, I stand thoroughly against. On adoption and ‘props’, we go too far. We lose our essential humanity, jettison our credibility, and abandon basic decency. Some things are just not done. Now who has the
courage and conviction either to challenge or to come to grips with what profanes and make lesser beings of all of us? Yours truly, GHK Lall
tion of $25,000 per household and many health workers will benefit. There is also a distribution of hampers that some health workers will benefit from. Health workers are valuable resources in any country. The PPP Government recognized and has acted in accordance with this commitment. Given the difficult times we presently face, we would like to do more. In time, our interventions will further expand. Health workers have remained resolute in Guyana’s fight against COVID-19. We will continue our advocacy for more support for health workers. We will continue to explore different options so that health workers are protected and can benefit. We can only be grateful for the health workers of Guyana and we must remain in solidarity with them. Yours truly, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy Advisor to the Minister of Health
Former Minster ... From page 5 are under the misapprehension of their term “irresponsible”, they also misunderstand the difference between ‘considering’ and ‘fulfilling’. The PPP considered the $150 million and fulfilled. The PNC considered and say, “Let Guyanese suffer more”. In conclusion, before this gentle lady could speak about the health of Guyanese, she should consider stop molding citizens every single day onto the streets for their political charade. Yours truly, Wazir Khan
Kaieteur News
Thursday October 01, 2020
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Health workers get candid about COVID-19 related struggles
W
ith just a glimpse of the daily news from around the world, persons can easily deduce that the fight against COVID-19 has not been an easy one, especially for health care professionals. In fact, it has been more than exhausting for some who are continually strategizing in hopes of coming up with tactical measures that could help to advance the gains made thus far. In so doing, many health workers on the frontlines, including our own Dr. Zulfikar Bux, have been under immense pressure. “I can't recall the last time I had a good night's rest. I constantly worry about my fellow health workers, my patients, our country and last but not least, my family,” he intimated in his column of Sunday September 27, 2020. The weekly KN contributor candidly revealed that “This pandemic has taken a toll on most of us but no one will understand the impact it's having on health workers unless they are in their shoes.” But as if the work itself was not hard enough during this pandemic time, Dr. Bux, an Emergency Medicine Specialist, revealed that “What's even worse is the awful treatment that we often receive by those around us. I have personally copped more abuse and disregard than any other period in my practice,” he added. A number of his colleagues, he confided, have been quietly sharing similar sentiments and this, he noted, “is slowly taking a toll on us.”
Emergency Medicine Specialist, Dr. Zulfikar Bux CHANGES IN THE ER One of his emergency room (ER) colleagues, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said, “the ER is no longer what it once was. If you are breathing abnormally, we have to put you in a separate area. This area is away from our normal stations and it requires you to constantly be on the move to ensure patient care is flowing as it should.” On a daily basis, the ER is bursting at the seams and it was pointed out that “the number of patients with COVID-19-like symptoms keeps increasing and we are running out of space to see them.” The response, though noble, has been draining both physically and emotionally, the health worker noted, pointing out that it has become increasingly hard to face relatives who are “frustrated and scared because they worry that theirs may have COVID-19.” The fact that these
relatives are unable to be in contact with COVIDpositive patients, translates into their frustrations being “directed towards us and we have no choice but to take these blows. These are heavy burdens to bear daily. We may not show that emotional turmoil openly but trust me, it's there,” said the health professional. Another of Dr. Bux's colleague, who has recovered from the disease and has returned to the frontline to continue the fight against the dreaded disease, is among those feeling the pressure. This colleague too shared verbal imagery of the state of the emergency room these days, adding, “Many days, I sit in my car taking deep breaths preparing myself mentally and physically for what awaits me in the ER and truth be told, I'm scared -- scared for my life, scared for my family.” DISHEARTENING But there is nothing more disheartening to this recovered health worker than to see members of the public flouting the COVID19 guidelines. “I am sure that I speak for most when I say it pains me to see people out partying, breaking the c u r f e w, h a v i n g l a r g e gatherings, wearing masks on their heads and under their chins and to top it off, these people come with minor ailments that cause more crowding in the ER and they make life even harder for us and the really sick patients who need us more.” Aside from the abuse, working long shifts while wearing N95 masks without fail, has been tough, another
The GPHC's ER department has been under unprecedented pressure since COVID-19 health professional shared. “The mask would leave scars on your face and nose. Sometimes, you feel that you are literally suffocating. Many times, I would get dehydrated on the shift. The straps on the masks are like sharp wires that dig into your skin and burn your ears.” At the end of the shift, “your teeth and jaw hurt and don't talk about the headaches. Wearing eye protection with the mask is a challenge, it either hurts your ears or it is always getting foggy.” The consequence of working under such unprecedented pressure, the health worker added, is that “I go home tired and cannot tend to my two young kids as I would like. I feel like I'm
not the best parent but yet I sacrifice this feeling to come out and fight for my patients. I have never felt so unappreciated for doing the right thing.” NURSING CARE For those providing nursing care, the struggle has been just as real but this, another colleague said, was overcome by tremendous courage and resilience. “Every day, we leave our homes to go do the job which we love…then head home to our families not knowing what more to do to keep them safe.” Despite all the talks of social distancing, the colleague added, “we are still expected to deliver
stellar nursing care with compassion.” Moreover, “whenever we receive news that one of our colleagues is COVID positive, we feel the sting of betrayal and despair.” But health workers are not super humans. In fact, they are people like the rest of us – some with breastfeeding infants, children home from school and spouses who long for their attention. “We have mothers, fathers and grandparents…the best thing you can all do is show some gratitude, follow the health guidelines, do your part to slow this spread so that all our lives can be spared as we fight this pandemic together,” the health worker added.
Kaieteur News
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Thursday October 01, 2020
Winston Brassington faces intense cross-examination in lawsuit over Dem Boys Seh F
ormer Head of the N a t i o n a l Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) Winston Brassington is facing intense cross-examination in yet another defamation trial over the contents of the Dem Boys Seh column published in the Kaieteur News. Brassington has brought a total of 19 lawsuits against the popular Guyanese publication and its former Editor-in-Chief, Adam Harris, for the contents of the daily published satirical feature. According to the claims, Brassington is accusing the Kaieteur News of making s e v e r a l o ff e n s i v e a n d libelous statements in relation to his role in several State projects. As Head of NICIL, Brassington played an integral part in several transactions including the controversial Amaila Falls Hydro Project. Brassington had taken the witness stand several times before in a bid to prove
his case against Kaieteur News. He has asked the Court to award him millions worth of purported damages inflicted on his character and integrity by the publication. During a virtual hearing of one of the matters before Justice Fidela CorbinLincoln at the High Court yesterday, Brassington was again questioned by Kaieteur News' lawyer, Nigel Hughes, about his interpretation of the contents of a Dem Boys Seh column. The lawyer took the witness to task over several sections of the column printed in February 2014 under the caption, “Jagdeo think he is Putin while Donald still in Sleep Inn.” As such, Hughes asked the witness to explain what he believes certain words and phrases meant. The questions were met with objections from lawyer for the witness, Timothy Jonas. Several of the objections were overruled but noted by the Judge. “Jagdeo got serious problems if he think he gun
bring de Put-In syndrome here, he lie. What do you think those words mean Mr. Brassington?” the lawyer asked. “I think it was comparing the former President Jagdeo with the Russian President Putin, stated Brassington. “And the line that followed, 'the only place wheh he gun Put-In heself, is de jailhouse, de American jailhouse too…Does that relate to you?” he continued. “No it doesn't” the witness said. “So, what do you understand it to mean?” the lawyer asked following up with “And does the word Put-In used in the same context in the second sentence as it is used in the first sentence?” “In my mind no, it does not mean the same thing,” the witness replied after a few minutes of hesitation. “Do you know what is meant by the Put-In Syndrome?” Hughes enquired. “No, I don't know what the Put-in Syndrome is
Former NICIL Head, Winston Brassington
Lawyer: Nigel Hughes
exactly,” Brassington stated. “The second sentence which talks about jailhouse...is that a statement of fact or do you agree it's somewhat of a prediction?” “Yes it is,” the witness said agreeing that the statement relates to the latter. The lawyer continued, “So the next sentence, plenty of them got to follow he, especially Brazzy and Bobby, Irfaat and Rob de Earth refers to a future activity?” “ Ye s , ” r e p l i e d Brassington. “Now do any of these
sentences refer to any criminal activity?” asked the attorney. “It is not specific to any criminal activity but it is implied,” he said. “Which criminal offence is implied?” the attorney followed up. “To my mind,” the witness explained, “you are only going to jail; if you've done something wrong.” And what kind of criminal activity do you think is implied? Because you would agree with me that a traffic offence is a criminal activity which
could lead to spending time in jail, Hughes suggested. “Yes ….but I can't say it is that it is talking about,” he stated. “And while dem spending dem time in jail, Donald gun continue to spend he time in Sleep-In, what do you understand to mean? Is that a statement of fact or a prediction of something yet to occur?” “It is present continuous tense,” Brassington started to explained when the lawyer interjected “So, you interpret it to mean that some persons were in jail.” “No,” the witness added, “amending his initial interpretation of the statement.” The lawyer then turned his attention to the paragraph in the article which stated, “He does do everything right deh. He does sing karaoke, dance merengue, laugh in Chinee, and push out he belly. All this time Cliffy smiling and Ah Kneel, dat scamp, counting de money. But when de money laundering Act come into place, without all de power wha Ah Kneel want fuh protect demself and jail de (continued on page 17)
Coalition criticizes govt.'s approach to COVID-19
W
i t h t h e number of COVID-19 deaths climbing each day, the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) yesterday blasted the People's Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government for its approach to combat the disease. At a press conference y e s t e r d a y, O p p o s i t i o n Member of Parliament (MP), Dr. Karen Cummings, said that since assuming office, the PPP/C government seems to have no definitive plan or strategy on how to manage the COVID-19 pandemic effectively. An error on its part, she added, was the immediate move to “abandon” the strategic plan left in place by the previous administration. A c c o r d i n g t o D r. Cummings, the Coalition, while in government, had
Opposition MPs Dr. Karen Cummings and Tabitha Sarabo-Halley recognized the need for the inclusive involvement of all stakeholders to combat the disease but even this plan, the PPP/C did not heed. “Their lack of foresight and inability to govern has resulted in an uptick in positive cases and the skyrocketing of deaths,” the MP said, adding that such an abject failure to address COVID-19 “has proven to
be a disaster for the country.” Turning her attention to frontline workers, Dr. Cummings expressed concern about them not being able to access the necessary protective equipment to properly execute their duties. She also mentioned the failure of government to provide frontline workers with risk allowances to
compensate them for their extended periods of work and tireless efforts. “This lack of appreciation shown by the PPP/C for the health care providers has zapped the energy of this workforce and shows a government out of touch with the daily realities on the ground,” the MP said. Further, Dr. Cummings, a former Junior Health
Minister, pointed to the 2020 Budget which she said is void of fiscal support for an adequate response to the pandemic. A c c o r d i n g t o Cummings, “There is no provision to create incentives for health workers to continually risk their lives to protect the health of this nation. There is no provision for public behaviour change programmes that combat the spread of COVID-19. There is no provision to continue and even ramp-up training of new healthcare workers.” MP Tabitha SaraboHalley, who was also present at the briefing, noted that as the previous Public Service Minister, she spearheaded the implementation of a “Public Administration Work Scheme.” This, she said, was focused on several measures including staff rotation, work from home, appointment scheduling and use of a government portal to
allow persons to continue to have access to government services, despite the reduction of in-person interactions. Such a plan produced positive results, she said, adding that just after one month, despite staff not being physically present, they were “significantly more productive.” Added to this was the rotation system for public servants, which she said, only required 50 percent of staff in office at any given time. But that system was scrapped by the government when it took office, SaraboHalley said. This, she added, shows a perfect example of how ill-prepared the government is to handle the pandemic. With this in mind, the Opposition MPs urged government to immediately take decisive to stem the tide and contain the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Thursday October 01, 2020
Kaieteur News
PAGE 09
Put your personal affairs in order D
i ff e r e n t d a y, same plot. The COVID-19 dashboard provided high numbers for Region Four. Soon after two more deaths were announced. The police are now appearing to be making a greater effort to enforce the curfew. People were not taking it seriously. Large number of vehicles could be seen driving on the road after 6pm. People were moving about seemingly unbothered that they were flouting the curfew. Ironically, it appears that the police are now clamping down just when the curfew hours are about to be relaxed, if reports in the media are to be believed. It is now being rumoured that instead of tightening the curfew hours, the government will be reverting to a 9pm to 4am curfew. If the truth be told, the 6pm to 6am curfew presented some problems. For those living as far as Parika, it is difficult if you have to leave work at 5pm to get home by 6pm given the traffic situation between Georgetown and West Demerara. It was also inconvenient for persons to have to wait until 6am to begin their day's business. For one, the sun is now rising around 5.30am in the mornings and therefore it robs the early morning fitness fanatics of at least an hour of exercise when they have to wait until 6pm to hit the road. Normally, they
Dem
boys seh...
D
em remember de fable about the scorpion and de frog. It goes like this: A scorpion asks a frog to carry him over a river. The frog is afraid of being stung, but the scorpion argues that if it did so, both would sink and the scorpion would drown. The frog then agrees, but midway across the river, the scorpion does indeed sting the frog, dooming them both. When asked why, the scorpion points out that this is its nature."
would be on the road a half of an hour before sunrise, which in this instance would be 5pm. Some persons also have to travel long distances to get to work. The late start to the morning affects them. There is no harm therefore in pushing back the curfew to 6:30pm to 4:30am. Instead, it is now being reported that the curfew is now going to be from 9pm to 4am. To add further worries, it is also being reported that international flights will resume from 12th October. The world is now in a second wave of the coronavirus. Yet, this is the time which the government is choosing to reopen the country's international airport. Why would a responsible government relax the curfew at a time when the total infections and deaths are at their highest? The decision about reopening the economy is immaterial. The economy, apart from the nightclubs, restaurants, rum shops, other bars and striptease joints, has been open for months now. Why then relax the curfew? There are a few possible explanations. First, it could be that some government officials miss going to their favourite watering holes. During the pandemic, one of their favourite haunts was the Marriot Hotel. But those government officials may want their more popular watering holes such as that place on Main
Street where they love to hang out. The decision to relax the curfew may be influenced by the need of the governing class to have some entertainment. But as insensitive as the government may be, it is not going to simply move towards a full reopening of the economy unless there is a real danger of the economy crashing. Businesses have been losing money for months now. This threatens not just the viability of the services and manufacturing sectors but also the financial sector which owes hundreds of billions and is unable to pay. This can be the reason why the government, instead of tightening social restrictions, is moving to a full reopening of the economy. The backlash will come. It will come in the form of more infections and more deaths. Already there is widespread grief within the country. For five months, a monumental mistake was made in keeping testing l e v e l s l o w. T h e t h e n government was being misadvised to limit testing. But also limited testing was taking place because there was little international support for the countries efforts to combat the pandemic. If during those five months, the social restrictions were being enforced, we would not have been where we are today. But the experiences of other
Scorpion and frog nah supposed to tie bundle De party wah de 'A' and de 'C' run away and leff de 'F' is de frog. De Hap-New is de scorpion. In 2015, de HapNew beg the party wah leff with de 'F' fuh carry it to de winner's side. De party wah leff with de 'F' agree because it too bin want cross over to the winner's side. It bin tired deh pon de losing side. So it decide to hitch its wagon to de Hap-New. It get sting. It get sting once. It get sting twice. It get sting thrice. It get sting so many times dat it tun stinging nettles. But still it
nah learn. It go back and tie bundle with de scorpion. And it get sting again. However de scorpion gat wan backup plan. You see de scorpion bin outsmart de party wah leff with de 'F'. It tell it dat it wan de position of Head of de List. De party wah leff with de 'F' agree. And now dem hands tie. Dem gat to accept all de sting dem gan get because if dem misbehave dem gan get RECALL. While de Hap-New going forward, de party wah leff with de 'F' going down!
countries have also been that as the economy reopens, there is a massive increase in infections and deaths. Guyanese have to begin to prepare for more
suffering. Put your personal affairs in order. The next number on the COVID-19 may very well be you. The economy is more important than you.
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
Kaieteur News
PAGE 10
Thursday October 01, 2020
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
David Patterson: The oxymoronic political life of a failed politician M
r. David Patterson did a strange thing a few days ago. He resigned from the elected position of General Secretary (GS) of the AFC because of a violation of an agreed position with the PNC that he, Patterson, negotiated. The agreement was that in each Region that the APNU+AFC won, the deputy chairperson would come from the AFC. I chose to use the word strange because of the nature of the resignation. If your partner reneged on an agreement, why choose to stay in parliament with that same partner? Why resign the GS post and not your membership? So your party
is emasculated and did not come to your rescue but you chose to stay with those very colleagues and continue to represent that party in the House. That maybe a strange act but here is where the comical part comes in. Why Patterson thinks he will earn respect and receive plaudits from people in and outside of Guyana because of the display of a so-called principled stance? The AFC is devoid of principles and ethics that positive human beings value, so in the end Patterson may end up looking comical when the AFC's record is laid bare. We start with the power victory in 2015 then will skip across to Patterson's friends
– Clairmont Mingo, Keith Lowenfield, Khemraj Ramjattan, Raphael Trotman, and ironically Dominic Gaskin. Mr. Patterson is yet to face the public and tell Guyanese if it was principled behaviour when his colleagues, at the time of selecting Cabinet assignments in May 2015, called a certain woman who didn't campaign for the AFC and offered her the position of Minister of the Environment thus overlooking stalwarts who deserved better. Question 2 - what was the quarrel between you and Nigel Hughes when in 2016 at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre where a retreat was held and the sole
topic was the expansive and mountainous power allocation of the Minister of the Presidency? The decision to ask for a curtailment of Harmon's portfolios was accepted by the retreat attendees but the next day, Hughes resigned. Why did he resign? Why didn't you resign when the PNC rejected the request to trim Harmon's portfolio? Question 3 - In the five years of power, why didn't you or the AFC publicly come clean with the Guyanese people, both here and abroad, over the cancellation of the amendment to the antinarcotic legislation? It was drafted by Hughes and put on the Order Paper of the House under the rubric of the AFC, to be read in the name of AFC parliamentarian, Michael Carrington Question 4 – In what can be interpreted as one of the most disgraceful deceits by a politician both from colonial times and after Independence, Ramjattan addressed his ministerial staff, conceded that the APNU+AFC lost the election, gave a farewell speech, then a few days after denied the entire episode which was recorded and which I think you have heard. Why didn't you resign
over having such a disgrace as your leader? Question 5 - Do you agree with what Mingo did at the GECOM head office on Friday, March 13, 2020 when he announced faked tabulation using a dirty bed
Frederick Kissoon sheet, a piece of cardboard and a half-dead projector? You consider it a principled stand to be part of that circus? Question 6 - Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield, submitted six different election's results. Why did you not see it as a matter of principle and reject what Lowenfield declared? Question 7 - Trotman announced for the world to hear that once the CEO has arrived at his tabulation, his conclusion cannot be challenged by any human in
Guyana and there is no law or constitutional provision that can be cited to overturn his figures. Do you agree with that asinine masturbation? Question 8 - Do you believe that David Granger is a US citizen? I would only say that I would like to see Granger's proof that he is not. Why would Michael Granger, a Guyanese employed by your outfit, APNU+AFC, who tried to persuade influential American personnel that APNU+AFC won the 2020 poll, refer to Granger as an American citizen? Question 9 – Did you take out licenses for your dogs when your government in the 2018 budget announced that owners with more than three dogs must take out a license for each? I know you have four dogs. Can you show me that you abided by your own government's regulation? Final question - Your principled friend, Gaskin, said that AFC leaders did not see the statements of poll; they were in the possession of APNU. Have you seen them? In fact, I heard you are in possession of them. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
Thursday October 01, 2020
Kaieteur News
PAGE 11
Kaieteur News
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Thursday October 01, 2020
$25,000 household cash grant distribution starts in Regions One and Nine An official prepares a cash transfer grant for this resident as Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat looks on in Region 9
A few residents of Khan Hill, Barima-Waini (Region One) display their COVID-19 cash grants
O
ver 8,000 Barima-Waini (Region One) residents were the first to benefit from the $25,000 per household COVID-19 relief cash grant announced by President Irfaan Ali last month. Just one day prior to the laying of the 2020 Emergency Budget in the National Assembly, the President indicated that the grant was one of several measures designed to buttress households
grappling with the effects of the pandemic. Th e p r o j e c t w a s officially launched by Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, on Monday in Khan Hill. The Minister, who also holds Parliamentary responsibility for Region One, said the initiative demonstrates the Government's commitment to the people. “Our President, when he addressed the nation, he
spoke about ensuring the lives of our citizens are taken care of, and this is one such exercise,” Minister Croal said. He expects that the grant will ease some of the hardships that hinterland residents are facing following the halt on mining and other activities during the pandemic. The Minster also gave assurances that the distribution would be done fairly. Residents have expressed their gratitude to
the Government for the initiative. In an invited comment to the Department of Public Information, Remel Santiago said he was pleased to receive his package. “We heard about this and I'm so happy for our new President of this country, for this budget, so that people across this country who need a 'little thing' at this moment can get it. I will try my best to get something with this for my home, because it is important,” he said. Another resident of Khan Hill, Sharmaine Smith, said the grant will be an addition
to provisions made by Government to help her secure online education for her daughter. “It could help me to buy credit for my [daughter] to help her with her school work [and] buy some things to use in the home that they need,” she said. Meanwhile, distribution in the Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo (Region Nine) was initiated by Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat on Monday. The Minister said the exercise is a good start to revitalise the economy. “You will have $200
million by the end of October circulating in this region. That is a significant boost to your economy in Region Nine. We will continue to ensure that we put money into people's pockets,” Minister Bharrat said. Distribution will be done in other far-flung areas including Regions Seven and Eight. Th i s i s n o t t h e Government's first COVID19 assistance programme to help citizens countrywide since taking office in August. A number of hampers were distributed to vulnerable communities last month.
Intoxicated man sets Canje house alight A
house owned by a Canadian citizen that was occupied by a 28-year-old woman was on Tuesday night set on fire by her intoxicated ex-partner. Reports suggest that Rangita Bhagwandin, the house sitter, had separated from the suspected arsonist, who has been identified as Davendra Samaroo, in August after an argument. Samaroo, it was revealed, moved out and Bhagwandin remained at the Lot 35
Ragubir Street, Reliance Abandon Village, East Canje, Berbice, home. According to information released by police, at around 1 6 : 0 0 h r s Tu e s d a y, Bhagwandin secured the house and left to visit a friend. It was established that Samaroo, who had been imbibing, showed up at the house around 22:00hrs in an intoxicated state and broke into the house. It was shortly after that neighbours saw smoke emanating from the house and they immediately
them to call the police. One resident said that police ranks showed up at the scene on foot, but the suspect charged towards them with
contacted the Fire Department and police. When law enforcement ranks arrived, the suspect was seen running out of the house. He was subsequently caught and taken into custody. The structure, which had an estimated value of $10M, was destroyed despite the valiant efforts of fight fighters. According to residents, Bhagwandin lived at the house with her daughter after separating from Samaroo. They claimed that they saw
The house on fire
In custody: Davendra Samaroo Samaroo when he showed up at the house in an intoxicated state. He had a cutlass in hand, they said. They said too when he entered the house, he was cursing and soon after started breaking up things. This, they said, prompted
his cutlass. The ranks, it was revealed, had to run to the station for back-up but by the time they returned, the house was on fire.
Kaieteur News
Thursday October 01, 2020
Accept us as a legal govt. before we speak - President Ali to Harmon
B
efore any talks of inclusive governance can commence between the People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) and the main opposition party - A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC), the APNU+AFC leader, Joseph Harmon, will have to rescind remarks, which he made publicly that the government is illegal. This ultimatum was put forward by President Irfaan Ali as he responded to questions as to when the two major parties are likely to sit down to devise strategies meant to improve Guyana. In his interview with senior journalists, Nazima Ragubir and Denis Chabrol, President Ali made it clear that he is willing to work with “every single Guyanese.” However, he was quick to point out that there should be mutual respect between both parties. “Now if I am working with you,” President Ali explained, “you have to be able to accept that I am the person you want to work with. So there are a number of things going on, if you look at some of the statements that the Opposition is making and then the Opposition leader is saying that he doesn't r e c o g n i z e t h e government…” Although the election process finally came to an end on August 2 last, after a five-month impasse, which required a CARICOM Supervised Recount to prove that the PPP/C won the March 2, 2020 Elections fair
President Irfaan Ali
Opposition Leader, Joseph Harmon
and square, recent statements emerging from APNU+AFC, and Harmon himself, continue to suggest that the government is “illegal” and “illegitimate”. Taking it a step further, the party has filed two elections petitions in the High Court to challenge the results, despite the widely publicized election being deemed “free, fair and transparent” by a host of international electoral observers. The Opposition had signalled its readiness to work in unison with the governing administration on matters of national interest as this is what citizens expect of their leaders. But according to the President, it would be an impossible feat to have cordial relations with a regime you do not consider legal. He said, “you can't speak with someone you don't recognize, you can't have a serious discussion with me
because you are speaking to someone you don't recognize. Therefore, we have to get it right. And I hope he (Harmon) gets it right very soon because if you come to me, you can't come to me to tell me you don't recognize me and if you are coming to me, it means you recognize me.” What Harmon needs to do, according to President Ali, “is make up his mind and make that very public.” The President also pointed to the current internal conflict brewing within the Coalition. “It seems that within the APNU, they are not talking to each other, so if we can't cross the hurdle in that party…what then?” he said. “Let me tell you this, it is very easy, very simple, he has to fix what he has created, a misleading narrative to the people of this country,” President Ali said, adding, “this is a legitimately elected government.”
E-Networks launches 5G...
From page 3 Guyanese people. ENetworks is the first and only company in Guyana to bring a 5G network to market, which it has been building over the last nine months.” The company said that the network was planned to complement the internet capacity from its recently built sub-sea cable that links Barbados to Guyana, which was landed in December 2019. “This 5G network is capable of delivering gigabit connectivity wirelessly and the company's initial 5G home package will provide
60 Mbps of speed for just $12,990. Business users can also access a 5G Business service, which delivers 75 Mbps for just $19,900 monthly. These services are available to users in the same coverage area as the 4G network.” The company said that persons interested in signing u p c a n e - m a i l s a l e s @ e n e t w o r k s . g y, WhatsApp: 624-5153, 6085551 or 608-5552, call: 2313890, or visit its Facebook page @enetworksgy. E-Networks Inc. was founded in 2003, becoming the country's leading Cable
television network. The company said it has introduced many new technologies to Guyana, including the country's first digital cable television system in 2006, the first WiMax network in 2010, and the first fiber-to-thepremises network in 2013, the first Direct-to-Home (DTH) system in 2017, and the first complete IPTV platform, which included mobile app access. Its managing director is Vishok Persaud with its chair Rakesh Puri, whose family controls the Continental Group.
PAGE 15
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Thursday October 01, 2020
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at its Liza Phase One operations, with no word on when it will stop the pollution altogether. There has been public outcry about the issue, given that it has made Guyana one of the highest flaring countries in the world per capita. Government's statement made no reference to flaring at Liza Phase One. PRODUCED WATER Government said that it has now required EEPGL to include tie-in points and space for produced water injection equipment, in its base design, consistent with its commitment to advocate for discharge of produced water at internationally accepted standards. Government will oversee a study to be conducted by Exxon by the first quarter of 2020 to examine the safe and efficient reinjection of the produced water, and determine the effects of the reinjection on the reservoir. The license states that the study will also seek to determine how the effects of dumping produced water in the ocean can be minimized. Government said that this is in keeping with its commitment to preserve marine life and water quality. ExxonMobil has been dumping thousands of barrels of produced water into the ocean at its Liza Phase One operations. Its Guyana President, Alistair Routledge claimed that the pollution is not harmful, despite there being no study to back up his assertion. Government's statement made no reference to the discharge of produced water at Liza Phase One.
750,000 BARRELS A DAY BY 2026 ExxonMobil has managed to secure approval from Guyana for three separate developments in a space of four years, with a combined peak production rate of 560,000 barrels per day. All three projects will run simultaneously by 2024. The company yesterday reminded that it intends to have five FPSO vessels producing in excess of 750,000 barrels per day by 2026. It has already identified a likely prospect for its fourth development at the Yellowtail well, believed by Westwood Global Energy to hold more than 300 million oil-equivalent barrels. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for Hess Corporation, John Hess, earlier this month related the consortium's optimism that Yellowtail will support its fourth drillship and produce at a capacity of 220,000 barrels of oil per day, the same as Payara. That would take peak production to 780,000 barrels per day. Exxon's subsidiary, Esso, operates the Stabroek Block with 45 percent interest, while Hess and CNOOC hold 30 percent and 25 percent respectively. Exxon said it is evaluating development opportunities not just at Yellowtail, but at Redtail, Mako and Uaru. It is forging ahead to develop the proven eight billion plus oilequivalent barrels in record speed, while Guyana fares with no depletion policy and a contract that falls well below industry standards in more ways than one.
$37 Million Welfare Programme For Health Workers The Gleaner - The Ministry of Health and Wellness is to implement a $37-million staff welfare progromme for health workers.Portfolio Minister, Dr Christopher Tufton, told Parliament on Tuesday that the one-year initiative will provide greater support to workers in light of the toll from managing the country’s COVID-19 response. The programme will have five components: 1. Human Resource Management 2. Staff Engagement and Communication 3. Rest and Relaxation 4 COVID Support 5. Wellness The total cost of implementation is projected to be some $37 million in this financial year with an additional $37 million being requested for FY 2021/22. Tufton noted that staff burnout is a major impediment to the COVID-19 fight and the health ministry has heard the growing cries for increased intervention. As such, the programme will lead to: 1. Mandatory rest days for staff who would have worked excessive hours. 2. Mandatory 48-hour results for staff members who have done COVID-19 tests. 3. Preferential rates in hotels and other facilities to support all staff within the system. 4. Family support and counselling for those who are most impacted by the disease. 5. Increased engagement and support to management within the regions and parishes to better support staff within the facilities and offices.
Thursday October 01, 2020
Kaieteur News
Winston Brassington faces intense... From page 8 ordinary man, dem boys would hope and pray dat de Heff Bee Eye deh fuh watch every dutty move dem mek and hinvestigate dem.” “None of that refers to you?” he asked. “Yes, it does,” Brassington replied. “Which part?” asked the lawyer. “To my mind, the part which says investigate dem, I interpret to mean me and others,” Brassington explained. “So, you are familiar with the function of the Federal Bureau of Investigations? And you would say that the FBI investigates matters of activities of dirty money?” the lawyer continued. To this Brassington said, “Yes.” “The next line…Dem Boys hear dem de watching Guyana fuh a long time. That is how dem buss de mighty Mafia ring that link Guyana to Uncle Sam and Italy. De small fish get buss in Brooklyn and some of dem get hold in Italy. Does this relate to you sir?” the lawyer said in continued reference to the article. “No, it doesn't,” Brassington added. “And, de real big ones still deh hey in Guyana. Does that refer to you sir?” Hughes queried. “Possibly,” Brassington said after a long pause, adding, “it's a matter of interpretation.” “But were you in the country at that time?” the lawyer asked. “I cannot recall whether I was in the country but I was
residing in Guyana,'” the witness responded. The article goes on to say none of dem gun be travelling in a hurry. “The dem there does that refer to you?” Hughes asked. In response Brassington said, “It's possible.” “And Jagdeo know all of dem. Some of dem is Brazzy family, but he don't talk to dem. Does that refer to you,” asked Hughes. Brassington replied, “No.” “And tell me, Mr. Brassington did you have family members who were restricted from travelling overseas at this time. Is Michael Brassington a relative of yours? Hughes queried. The witness hesitated with his response at which time, his lawyer interjected with an objection on the issue of relevance. However, the judge noted that the question was relevant given the fact that the defendants were pleading justification. The witness eventually responded to the question telling the court that his relative was restricted from travelling but he chose to remain in Guyana. “Where in the article does it refer to your office or conduct?” the attorney asked. There is no specific reference but it is implied, the witness added, noting that there were other office holders mentioned in the piece. “And which office did Bobby hold? Hughes asked. “He did not have an office,” said Brassington as the lawyer enquired about the
name “Donald?” “President,” responded the witness. “What about Cliffy and Jadgeo what offices did they hold?” Hughes questioned. “Cliffy had no office but Jagdeo was a former President,” responded the witness. Hughes then asked, “Was there any specific mention of your name and jail house?” “No but it was implied,” Brassington said. “You were a regular reader of the Dem Boys Seh article?” the lawyer continued and to this Brassington said “yes.” “Did you consider it to be a news article or a satirical piece?”asked Hughes. “It was partially news item, part satirical,” said Brassington who explained further that he believes it was news because it was published in a newspaper. Given his view of the column, the defence attorney questioned whether any request was made by Brassington for the alleged offensive pieces to be retracted. “Did you at any time request an apology or retraction? Hughes asked. “Not specifically for this article but many times I spoke to Adam Harris about it,” the witness said.Further on the question of damages, Hughes queried whether the former NICIL Head had suffered any loss of office as result of the published article. “Did it affect your job in any way?” asked Hughes and to this the witness said, “No, it did not.”
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Thursday October 01, 2020
Kaieteur News
Thursday October 01, 2020
Man accuses Corentyne police of “covering up” wounding matter
One of the wounds Dhanraj Dulam sustained
A
resident of C l i f t o n Settlement, Corentyne, Berbice is of the belief that ranks attached to the Whim Police Station failed to properly investigate a wounding incident that involved his two sons and others. The incident which occurred last Friday night saw Dhanraj Dulam, 29, sustaining stab wounds below his right eye and abdomen, while his brother, Ramraj Dulam, 28, was stabbed to his right side and back. Father of the injured men, Ramanand Dulam, 55, said that his eldest son is still hospitalised at the New Amsterdam Hospital. According to the man, the suspects were drinking in the village when his sons left the location to follow a friend home. This happened after police ranks swooped down on the drinking spot
One of the wounds Ramraj Dulam sustained
and ordered that the music be turned off. “My son dem left to go follow home dem friend that went by me and when the boys passing like dem think dem boys call the police on dem, so dem start fight and then dem run till in my son friend yard and stab me two sons and cuff up the other bai," the man explained. The father said that the men were armed with knives and dealt his sons several stabs during the scuffle. He revealed too that in addition to one person who was arrested, police arrested his sons' friend who was also injured in the scuffle. He stated that his sons' injured friend was not allowed to go to a hospital to seek medical attention but was instead arrested and placed on $20,000 bail. Ramanand disclosed that when he visited the Whim Police Station, he spoke with the officer in charge of that
sub-division, Inspector Michael Newland. The man said that he told the officer that there was a surveillance camera pointed in the direction of the fight and that the police could access it to show what took place. The man said that he subsequently learnt that his advice was not taken. In fact, he said that he has reason to believe that the owner of the camera in question was instructed to delete the footage. The father is claiming too that he has evidence which could prove that someone was paid to “duck the case”. "Till now, they can't charge nobody and my son deh critical in hospital...dem doctor telling me dem trying with him," the father added. The man said that he is calling on the hierarchy of the police force to intervene in the matter to ensure that justice is served.
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Three years jail for man who had sex with COVID-19 infected corpse
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he man, who was last Saturday caught having sex with a COVID-19 infected female corpse inside a morgue, will spend the next three years behind bars. Leroy Chacon, 50, of Trainline Port Kaituma, North West District (NWD), Region One, yesterday received his sentencing from Magistrate Dylon Bess via Zoom, at the Matthew's Ridge Magistrate's Court. Chacon, on Tuesday, had pleaded guilty to the charge read to him that that he trespassed to commit a sexual act. It was alleged that on S e p t e m b e r, 2 6 , 2 0 2 0 , Chacon committed the indecent act where he trespassed by entering the Port Kaituma mortuary and proceeded to have sex with the body of a 56-year old female farmer of 14 Miles, Arakaka. Kaieteur News was told that the man was caught lying on top of the woman's body at around 07:45hrs. A group of individuals had reportedly visited the mortuary to tend to the body of their relative and saw Chacon committing the act. They subsequently lodged a report and the man was
Jailed: Leroy Chacon
arrested. Sources said that Chacon had appeared to be under the influence of alcohol but when questioned, he appeared to be of sound mind and acknowledged his actions. The man, according to reports, showed no remorse for his action. It is the belief of some Port Kaituma villagers, that Chacon would frequently enter the morgue to have sex with female
corpses but was only caught in the act on this occasion. Villagers also revealed that Chacon knew the woman, whose remains he was caught having sex with, when she was alive. The woman had died on September 21 last after she showed up at the hospital with COVID-19 symptoms. A test sample which was taken from her body later returned positive.
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Thursday October 01, 2020
No touching oil money until Prime suspect in taxi driver’s sweeping reforms - President Ali 2015 murder captured President Dr. Irfaan Ali does not intend to touch a cent from Guyana’s sovereign wealth fund until a series of reforms are enacted to strengthen the Government’s regulatory infrastructure for the oil and gas sector. These reforms include revamping the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Act, establishing a Petroleum Commission, and updating other legislation pertinent to the management of the oil and gas sector. “All of these things have to be done institutionally before we even think about [accessing oil funds],” the President said.He made this commitment in a recent interview with local journalists. After the President took office on August 2, one of the major questions was how the new Government would manage Guyana’s oil and spend the oil money. The government had decided not to access the few hundred million dollars in oil money sitting in a New York Federal Reserve Bank to help with its emergency budget. The Petroleum Commission, Ali has noted, is necessary to keep the management of the sector away from political influence. Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo said that the sector will instead be managed by the best technical minds. As for the sovereign wealth fund, the administra-
President Irfaan Ali tion has frowned on the Natural Resource Fund implemented by the former David Granger administration. It said that its provisions give the subject Minister too much control over the Fund. Attorney General Anil Nandlall has noted too that the legality of the Fund is questionable, given that it was passed after the Government fell by a December 21, 2018 vote of no Confidence. The Government has to implement local content legislation too; the past government only formed a policy. This administration has already formed a local content advisory panel to assist with its efforts. Among its members are Trinidadian local content expert, Anthony Paul, and Head of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), Shyam Nokta.
Nokta is the Chair of the panel. Multiple business service organizations have urged the government to cleave more to the recommendations made by the private sector, as it seeks to improve on the current policy. Suggestions are coming out of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) that the panel be expanded to include more diverse private sector representation. The Government is expected as well to update the Petroleum (Exploration and Production) Act, the Environmental Protection Act, the Procurement Act, and other laws which are pertinent to the management of the sector. The President said that once the legislation and Fund are in place, the government will move to establish the Commission. Several of the campaign promises of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) hinge on the use of oil money, but it has not said when it will begin to access the Fund. Meanwhile, the government continues to skirt calls for a renegotiation of the Stabroek Block agreement. Asked about this, the President only offered that he is reading the comments being made by various persons, and that he is “absorbing” what is being said about the government’s management of the sector.
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he prime suspect in the 2015 murder of a Crane taxi driver, Colin Clark, 55, was on Monday last, nabbed in Mahdia, Region Eight. The Guyana Police Force (GPF) had issued a wanted bulletin, back in 2018, for the wanted man identified as Sheldon Collins Abrams of Lot 6 Supply, Mahaica, Region Five. After two years of hunting him down, Kaieteur News was told that the man was found living in a shack at one of the mining areas in the Mahdia, Region Eight district. He was arrested and later transported to Georgetown where he is currently being grilled by detectives. Abrams is being questioned in connection with the murder of Clark whose partially decomposed body was found on December 3, 2015 beneath a bridge at U i t v l u g t , We s t C o a s t Demerara (WCD). Clark, popularly known as “Ole boy”, of Crane Housing Scheme, WCD was last seen alive at around 17:00hrs on Friday, November 27, 2015, traversing the area where he works as a hire car driver. Both Clark and his silvergrey Toyota Allion motorcar, which he operated had reportedly disappeared sometime after. The man’s sister had told this newspaper that the car was owned by her niece’s mother. Clark, she said, would normally deliver the vehicle to the woman’s residence at 19:00hrs each night but failed to do so. It was then Clark’s sister became worried because it was unlike him to get lost or
Captured: Sheldon Collins
Murdered: Colin Clark
not inform her before going somewhere. Contact was also made with the man’s friends but no one had seen him. The following day a report was lodged with police and the search began for the missing taxi driver. Five days later, residents of Uitvlugt, while on an early morning stroll, detected a foul smell emanating from the vicinity of a bridge. Police were alerted and hours later retrieved Clark’s body from underneath the bridge. A relative had noted that a “brake cable” was seen wrapped around the corpse’s neck which suggested that the man was strangled to death. Kaieteur News later reported that the murder weapon used was a strip of barbed wire with sticks tied at both ends. The killer had drawn the improvised weapon so tight around Clark’s throat that flesh was left embedded in it. Clark’s car was discovered a week later at Perth, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara (ECD) parked underneath the house of an eld-
erly couple. A man had reportedly told the couple that he was acquainted with their son and asked for them to keep the car until he returned from Suriname. Investigators had found Clark’s driver’s licenee inside the vehicle along with blood stains on the back seat. As the probe continued into his murder, it was discovered that on the day, he vanished, he had picked up a tall dreadlocked man at Vreed-enHoop who spoke with a strange accent. Clark had reportedly told friends that man hopped into the back seat of his car and had asked to be dropped at Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo (EBE). The taxi driver had reportedly intimated to them that he felt uneasy with the man sitting behind him. Nevertheless, they arrived at their destination and the man returned with Clark to Vreed-en-Hoop but hired him a second time that day to be taken back to Tuschen. The taxi driver had agreed, left and vanished.
Two additional COVID-19 deaths -as Ministry records 48 new cases The Ministry of Health (MOH) has confirmed that another two persons, who tested positive for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), have died. The new fatalities have taken the total number of local deaths from the disease to 82. The latest fatalities are that of a 61-year-old female from Demerara-Mahaica (Region Four) who died while receiving care at a medical facility and a 60-year-old man from Essequibo Islands- West Demerara (Region Three). The MOH, in a statement, said that health workers have contacted all relatives and persons to facilitate contact tracing and rapid assistance to everyone who may have been exposed to the nowdead persons. The statement comes even as the Ministry confirmed 48 new cases of the
disease in an updated dashboard, 11 of which are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). A total of 185 persons are also in institutional isolation, 938 in home isolation and 52 are in institutional quarantine. The number of recovered cases stands at 1,680. In the meantime, Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, reiterated that Guyana is continuing to ramp-up its response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Anthony disclosed that the National COVID-19 Task Force is dealing with the disease at different levels including: the policy level and the health response. “It is not only medical response, but also these other responses that can help people through this pandemic,” Minister Anthony explained. At the policy level, the Task Force examines the
trends of the epidemic, the hotspot locations, and the current situation. This epidemiological data is used to develop proposals on new guidelines. These proposals are then used to advise the Government on the next step in managing the disease. The health response is generated at the Health Emergency Operation Centre (HEOC). The HEOC equips hospitals with the gear and medications so that they can treat everyone who accesses their services. The health response also encompasses testing, treatment and surveillance in terms of knowing the location of persons who tested positive; how they are isolating, if they are symptomatic, whether they are improving or experiencing severe symptoms (respiratory distress) that will require hospitalisation.
Thursday October 01, 2020
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Amelia Kerr helps New Zealand end 13-match losing streak to Australia ESPNcricinfo - Amelia Kerr turned in a masterly display with the ball before delivering precisely the late innings hitting required to lift New Zealand to victory. This helped end a run of 13 Australian wins in all format meetings between the two countries. New Zealand kept the Australians more or less in check throughout their innings, but had a couple of nervous moments in the pursuit of a mediocre total on a worn pitch at Allan Border Field. At 3 for 44 and then 5 for 98, Meg Lanning’s team might have expected to close things out for a 3-0 series ledger. However Kerr was confidence personified as she identified her areas and picked her gaps for the pivotal boundaries to collect the 25 runs
they needed from the final three overs. As much as spin was dominant throughout the match, Lanning left her own leg spinner, Georgia Wareham, with one over still available despite figures of 2 for 19. Gaining a foothold A streak of 13 matches across all formats without a win over Australia was undoubtedly sticking in the craws of the visitors. Having won the toss on an overcast day, there was a chance to set the agenda and maintain it better than they had managed against a rampant Ash Gardner in game one. The recalled Jess Kerr started off with a maiden notable for sharp inswing that Alyssa Healy could make little of, and while Beth Mooney was more fluent, both were gone within seven overs.
Things should have been even better for New Zealand, but their fielding has been sloppy relative to Australia and it came home to roost the ball after Devine had found Mooney’s outside edge with a perfectly pitched delivery that moved way just enough off the seam. Flinging the next one wider and giving Lanning the chance to free her arms, Devine raised her arms in triumph as the skewed drive flew off the edge straight at Satterthwaite, only for the chance to go down. Lanning went on to 21 on a low scoring day. Kerr mixes things up On familiar ground due to her WBBL deal with Brisbane Heat, Amelia Kerr was doubly at home on a pitch that, having first been used on Saturday, was now five days old. This gave her the opportunity
Thursday October 01, 2020 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Exciting news could come to you today that could bring a lot of joy into your life, Aries. Your income may soon skyrocket, and more opportunities to advance yourself professionally should start coming thick and fast. TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) A powerful bond between you and a romantic partner could have you walking around with your head in the clouds, Taurus. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Gemini, love of all kinds the love of friends, the affection of family members, romantic love - flourishes in the home today as a number of visitors come to your door, perhaps unexpectedly. CANCER (June 21–July 22) A large gathering of friends, relatives, and neighbors could take place in your neighborhood today, Cancer. You might run into a few old friends you haven't seen in a long time and enjoy catching up. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) If you've asked your employer for a raise recently, Leo, the astral energy indicates that you can expect to receive one soon. VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22) An unexpected letter or package might arrive sometime today, Virgo. This could be a gift from a lover - perhaps a bit more lavish .
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Happiness reigns in the home right now, Libra. Money comes pouring in from bonuses, salary from extra hours, or gifts. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Are you single, Scorpio? If so, today you might fall in love at first sight. You may have been frustrated lately by the lack of available, interesting people, but today you could meet someone who seems too perfect for words. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) A strong attraction to someone could take you by surprise today, Sagittarius. This person could be involved in the arts in some way, perhaps film, television, or recording. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Are you involved in a creative project that involves modern technology, Capricorn? If so, progress could be made by leaps and bounds, starting today. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) If you own your home or have any kind of investments in real estate, Aquarius, you might hear some great news today about the value of that investment. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Are you technically single but very deeply involved with someone, Pisces? If so, don't be surprised if today you extend or receive a proposal of marriage. Recent events have brought you very close together .
Amelia Kerr celebrates a wicket. (Getty Images)
for sharp spin in both directions, added to her usual nifty changes of pace, while twirling down her wrist spin with commendable accuracy. In her first over, Kerr was able to cramp Rachael Haynes on the pull shot for a catch to midwicket. In her second, Lanning was beaten in flight by a full toss, its late dip compelling a miscue to mid-on. Kerr took her cap after a
spell of 2 for 6, and would concede only another 12 in her final two overs as the Australians tried to lift the rate amid the loss of regular wickets. In conceding only one boundary in four overs, Kerr was a constant threat, and aided the likes of Maddy Green and Lea Tahuhu to turn in their own excellent spells. A target of 124 was well within the reach of Devine’s batting
lineup. Wareham, Haynes apply the squeeze on New Zealand Australia’s blueprint is a consistent one, relying on their tight bowling and superbly reliable fielding to squeeze opponents into error, rather than chasing wickets a little more ardently or riskily. In the early overs, they were able to do this by cornering Green, whose struggles to rotate strike counterbalanced the free scoring of Devine at the other end. Eventually, Green skied one off Delissa Kimmince for the opening breakthrough, and then Georgia Wareham maintained her excellent recent record against New Zealand by tempting Devine into a stumping.Two balls later, Suzie Bates’ enormous experience was also lost from the chase, as Haynes fumbled ever so slightly then unleashed the sort of inner ring throw at the non-striker’s stumps that would have made the likes of Allan Border, Ricky Ponting or Andrew Symonds proud. Bates stretched, but was a centimetre or two short as the bails were sent flying, and New Zealand were suddenly in the sort of position from which they had subsided meekly in both of the first two games. Kerr’s late show ends Australia’s streak There was plenty of composure from Amy Satterthwaite and Katy Martin as they reset after the losses of Devine and Bates. The run rate required was still more than manageable, the pitch slow but not untrustworthy. The biggest obstacle appeared to be New Zealand’s own self-belief relative to Australia’s, and after Martin swung Sophie Molineux high over midwicket for six, the tourists needed just 32 from the final six overs. Australia, though, found a way to tighten things yet again. Jess Jonassen conceded just two from her next over, then Wareham spun one into Martin’s middle stump as she tried to work the ball behind point. Jonassen’s final over was another extremely disciplined offering, finding a way past Satterthwaite while giving up just a single. Not for the first time, it was left up to Amelia Kerr, who responded with a minor masterpiece. A precision cover drive off Molineux set up the final over, whereupon she clouted Megan Schutt over mid off and square leg.The streak is over.Scores: New Zealand 5 for 125 (Satterthwaite 30, Wareham 2-19) beat Australia 7 for 123 (Gardner 29, Kerr 2-18, Tahuhu 2-28) by five wickets.
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Thursday October 01, 2020
Ruthless Nadal stays on course for 13th French Open title PARIS (Reuters) - It was business as usual as Rafa Nadal continued his quest for a record-extending 13th French Open title with a 6-1 6-0 6-3 crushing of American Mackenzie McDonald yesterday to reach the third round. The Spanish second seed, also looking to equal Roger
Federer’s record of 20 men’s singles Grand Slam titles, was never troubled on court Philippe Chatrier. The claycourt master played deep, using his forehand to devastating effect to set up a meeting with Japanese Kei Nishikori or Italian Stefano Travaglia.
After world number 236 McDonald won the second game, Nadal bagged 11 games in a row to move two sets up and despite some resistance from his opponent early in the third set, he had no trouble improving his win-loss record at Roland Garros to 95-2. “My objective is to play
as well as I can. It was a good match for me today. I’m very happy,” Nadal said. “Then it’s another difficult match. We’ll see, I hope I’ll be at a good level. It’s always special for me to play here in Paris, on court Philippe Chatrier.” Nadal looks to be on a semi-final collision course with Dominic Thiem, who he beat in the last two finals in Paris.After a first-round match played in chilly and
damp conditions, the 34-yearold benefited from better weather on Wednesday. “Today was not that cold, so that’s the main thing. Not that cold, the conditions are not that bad,” said the Spaniard, who had complained about the new balls used in Paris being too heavy. “The ball is still heavy. When is not that cold, the ball is little bit less heavy always. I see the predictions the next couple of days are not very
good.”That means Nadal may have to play under the closed roof on court Philippe Chatrier for the first time, but he looks in good form. He fired 17 forehand winners against McDonald, faced zero break points and made only eight unforced errors in a performance that should boost his confidence after he lost in the Italian Open quarter-finals this month to Argentine Diego Schwartzman.
BCB seeks government input into the development of practice facilities - Coaching sessions to restart in Berbice The Berbice Cricket Board has kept itself busy over the last six months despite the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and continues to make a positive impact on the development of the game in the Ancient County. Dozens of clubs and junior cricketers have benefitted from donations of cricket gears, cricket balls, stumps, scorebooks, and food hampers. The BCB also joined hands with the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club to distribute over five thousand food hampers and other items such as medical supplies, cleaning detergents and household items to less fortunate families and public institutions. Additionally, the BCB has also hosted several programmes such as Father of the Year, Mother of the Year, Basil Butcher Cricket Development Programme and Youth Information booklet. As part of its developmental programme, the BCB also extend an invitation to the Head of a Regional Caribbean Cricket Board to visit Berbice. The Head has since accepted the invitation to visit after the pandemic and then a BCB delegation will make a return trip. The BCB is also in discussion with numerous sponsors so that Berbice Cricket will hit the ground running when the permission is given to restart. Support for a second two days tournament has already been secured for 2021, while the board’s dream of having its own cricket pitch covers was achieved with the cooperation of former President Anil Beharry. BCB President Hilbert Foster has also been very busy and over the last month has had official discussions with Region Six Chairman David Armogan, Regional Executive Officer Navindra Persaud and Minster of Agriculture Mr. Zulfikar Mustapha. The BCB President is expected to meet shortly with officials of the
under strict Covid-19 guidelines
BCB President Hilbert Foster and Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha in discussion during the visit. Region Five RDC and Minister of Sports Charles Ramson Jnr. Foster stated that the BCB is seeking to have an allweather indoor cricket practice facility constructed in both Regions Five and Six. Minster Mustapha, who is also the Member of Parliament for Region Six, congratulated the BCB on its outstanding work and committed to find funding for at least one of the facilities. Proposals are currently been prepared for submission to the relevant authorities. The board would also be pushing the regional bodies to invest in some of the major cricket grounds in the county.Meanwhile, the BCB/Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh Coaching Programme will restart on Saturday 3rd of October with strict Covid-19 guidelines. A maximum of ten under 15 cricketers would be involved in each session. Players would be required to wear masks, practice social distancing, sanitize their hands regularly and walk along with their own gears for the two hours sessions. The schedule for the Coaching programme is as follows 1. Saturday 3rd of October Venue Port MourantTime 10AM to 12Noon.
2. Sunday 4th of October Venue Albion- Time 10AM to 12Noon 3. Wednesday 7th of October Venue Rose Hall Town Area ‘H’ Ground Time 3PM to 5PM 4. Saturday 10th of October Venue Rose Hall Canje Cricket Ground Time 10AM to 12Noon 5. Sunday 11th of October Venue Edinburgh CC Time 10AM to 12Noon 6. a. Saturday 18th of October Venue Blairmont Cricket Ground Time 10AM to 12Noon b. Saturday 18th October Venue Achievers Cricket Ground- Time 1PM to 3PM 7. a. Sunday 19th of October Venue No73 Cricket Ground- Time 10AM to 12Noon b. Sunday 19th of October Scottsburg Cricket Ground- Time 1PM to 3 PM 8. Saturday 26th of October Venue Tucber Park CCTime 10AM to 12Noon 9. Sunday 27th October No19 Kendall’s Union Venue Kendall’s Union Cricket Ground- Time 10AM to 12Noon 10. Wednesday 14th of October Venue Area ‘H’ Ground- Time 3PM to 5PM
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Kaieteur News
“Not ruling out Skerritt thrilled as Windies poised for NZ tour competition” – GRFU Boss
The head of the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU); Ryan Dey, during an invited comment with Kaieteur Sport, has noted that his administration will remain optimistic in terms of having some form of competition this year. Many associations are doubtful whether they can have any participation for the remaining of the year with the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) recently announcing that the Senior Track & Field Championship has been ruled out, while the motor racing body has already missed quite a number of events since the Covid-19 pandemic hit Guyana in March.And, although the regional showpiece; the Rugby Americas North (RAN) sevens competition has been cancelled, Dey noted that once the go ahead is given by the local authorities they will try to have some form of competition. While some countries have shown massive progress in the fight against the pandemic, Guyana remains one that has not and the main reason for the cancellation of the RANs 7s was due to the travel restrictions that many countries, includ-
ing Guyana, currently face. In April last, RAN cancelled their 2020 Men’s 15-aside competition, along with the women’s 10s and men’s under-19 tournament, which was set to take place July 812 in Nassau, Bahamas. The Senior men’s 15-aside tournament was to get underway in April and doubled as the first regional qualification round for Rugby World Cup 2023. These matches have now been tentatively postponed to 2021, with further details to be confirmed. Dey explained to Kaieteur Sport that the GRFU will keep an open mind until the end of this month for the approval of play but planning for competition any time after will be almost impossible. If approval is granted to return to play, the GRFU will follow guidelines from the world governing rugby body and local authorities but Dey disclosed that the association will be interested in contesting ‘tag’ rugby between clubs. This, the administrator believes, will not only help the players to get some valuable game time but also keep them motivated for the 2021 season. (Calvin Chapman)
ST JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC – West Indies will tour New Zealand at year-end for two Tests and three Twenty20 Internationals, their second series this year following the outbreak of the deadly COVID-19 pandemic. Cricket West Indies confirmed Monday the Caribbean side would undertake the November 27 to December 15 series after New Zealand Cricket received the thumbs-up from government there to host the tour. New Zealand has been one of the most successful nations in managing the pandemic with just under 1500 confirmed infections and 25 deaths, and CWI president Ricky Skerritt said the regional board was happy to undertake the assignment. “We are pleased to be able to fulfill our obligation to tour New Zealand as we continue to get our ICC Future Tours Programme back on track, in spite of the financial difficulties we face,” Skerritt said in a release. “I want to thank CWI CEO Johnny Grave and Director of Cricket Jimmy Adams, and their operations team, for successfully partnering with NZC to make this tour possible. “Earlier this summer, in
New course, old rivals as Kipchoge and Bekele face off in London LONDON (Reuters) - An unfamiliar course, poor weather and the absence of 750,000 cheering fans suggest a world record is unlikely in Sunday’s London Marathon but long-standing rivals Eliud Kipchoge and Kenenisa Bekele could still produce a race for the ages. After the cancellation of the original race in April due to COVID-19, organisers have pulled together an eliteonly event, featuring almost 20 laps of St James’s Park, behind high fences and watched only by a handful of journalists, coaches and event officials. For Kenya’s Kipchoge, this will feel familiar after he became the first man to break two hours on a similar multilap course in Vienna last year, his one hour, 59.40 minutes time ruled unofficial due to pacemaker and drink station anomalies. There is no getting around his official record, however, posted 2:01.39 in Berlin in 2018 to destroy the existing mark by 78 seconds and seal his position as the sport’s greatest-ever over the
26.2 mile distance. Ethiopia’s Bekele had his own “GOAT” claim after winning multiple world and Olympic track titles and setting long-standing world records. His marathon best seemed to be behind him until he somehow found a 2:01.41 in Berlin last year to miss Kipchoge’s mark by two seconds. That made the East African duo the only men to have broken two hours, two minutes for the distance. It is remarkable that both won distance world titles on the track in 2003 and now, 17 years on, are still top of the pile and breaking new ground. Bekele, who still holds the 10,000m world record having lost his 5,000m mark last month, is 38 to Kipchoge’s official 35 - though many believe the Kenyan to be several years older. “It should be a great race and I’m really looking forward to it after almost a year since I last competed,” Kipchoge, seeking a record fifth London title, told a remote news conference on Wednesday. Asked what he thought of his chief rival, he said: “I re-
spect the man, the success and the mentality of being able to train with such discipline even after such huge success.” Bekele, who must have thought his podium days were over after a series of poor runs and failed finishes in the two years before his Berlin renaissance, repaid the compliment. “We are rivals, we beat each other a few times and such a rivalry has helped keep us in the sport for so long,” he said. “Of course I respect him as an athlete and for his discipline to stay in the sport for such a long time. We have the same management and share many things but we will race.” Kipchoge will wear the latest version of Nike’s carbon-plated Alphafly Next% shoe, which comply with World Athletics’ new restrictions on cushioning height but are still widely perceived to give a considerable advantage over traditional shoes. Bekele has opted for the older Vaporfly version that served him so well last year.
West Indies set to take on the Black Caps in three T20 Internationals and two Tests.
collaboration with the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB), we restarted international cricket, globally. Fortunately, that England tour included the successful testing of safety protocols which we expect will be the standard for all international cricket tours. “COVID-19 has created a most challenging period for cricketers and fans alike, with all the schedules being adjusted and amended. We see this tour as another timely opportunity to keep our players working and our fans en-
tertained.” The T20 series will raise the curtain on the tour with the opener set for Eden Park in Auckland on November 27 and a double-header scheduled for Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on November 29 and 30. Seddon Park in Hamilton will then host the first Test starting December 3 before players head to Wellington for the second Test starting December 11 at the Basin Reserve.CWI said the tour was subject to its medical ad-
visory committee approving the final COVID-19 protocols.West Indies have won just one of their last eight Tests against the Black Caps and have not beaten them at home in 25 years. Earlier this year, West Indies and England became the first teams to resume international cricket since the global shutdown because of COVID-19, when they clashed in a three-Test bio secure series in the United Kingdom.
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Tennessee home game versus Steelers postponed due to Titans’ COVID-19 outbreak
Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) scores a touchdown in the third quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium. (Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports/File Photo) Reuters) - Tennessee’s game against the Pittsburgh Steelers that was set to be played on Sunday in Nashville will be rescheduled after several Titans players and staff tested positive for the coronavirus, the NFL said yesterday. The National Football League said in a statement that more time is needed for further daily COVID-19 testing to ensure the health and safety of players. A new game date and time on either Monday or Tuesday will be announced as soon as possible.
Thursday October 01, 2020
Kaieteur News
The Week Three matchup between the two undefeated teams is the first NFL contest disrupted by the virus that has forced the bulk of the league’s 32 clubs to play in empty or near empty stadiums. The Titans closed their facilities earlier this week after three players and five team personnel tested positive for the virus following their Sunday game against the host Minnesota Vikings. A fourth Titans player has since tested positive.
Serena Williams withdraws from French Open with Achilles injury
Yahoo Sports - Serena Williams’ quest for her record-tying 24th Grand Slam will have to wait a bit longer.Williams was forced to withdraw from the French Open yesterday due to an unhealed Achilles injury. She pulled out of the tournament just an hour before she was to face Tsvetana Pironkova. Speaking to reporters, Williams revealed that she originally injured her Achilles during her semifinal loss to Victoria Azarenka in the US Open three weeks ago, taking a medical timeout in the third set. The injury had not had time to properly heal. “I was able to get it somewhat better but just looking long term at this tournament — ‘Will I be able to get through enough matches?’ — and so for me I don’t think I could and struggling to walk so that’s kind of a telltale sign that I should try to recover,” Williams told reporters, via the WTA. Williams, 39, said she’ll need about four to six weeks of sitting and doing nothing for the injury to heal correctly, and that she’s more than likely done competing in 2020. Injury affected earlier round The Achilles injury Williams sustained nearly a month ago has been affecting her throughout the French Open. She told reporters that her focus was on managing her injury instead of her opponent.
“In my first-round match, in the second set I just felt like I needed to walk with a limp and that was no good,” Williams said, via the WTA. “I had to focus on walking straight so I wasn’t limping. I tried. I always give 100 percent, everyone knows that. Maybe even more than 100 if that’s possible. I take solace in that. I think Achilles is a real injury that you don’t want to play with because that is not good if it gets worse.” It’s a disappointing end of the season for Williams. Despite the Achilles injury, she felt that her body was at its best. Considering her recent history of back and knee issues, that’s a triumph on its own — and that’s why she’s not devastated about having to pull out. As long as her Achilles heals, she knows she’ll be back.“I feel like my body is willing,” Williams said. “This is not a nagging injury, this is an acute injury. So if it was my knee that would be more really devastating for me. But this is something that just happened and it’s super acute and that’s totally different. I feel like my body is doing really, really well and I just ran into, for lack of a better word, bad timing and bad luck, really, in New York. It happened, but my body is actually doing really, really well.” Williams’ next opportunity to tie Margaret Court’s record of 24 Grand Slam titles will come in January during the Australian Open.
West Indies coach Phil Simmons hopes England tour Caribbean BBC Sport - West Indies coach Phil Simmons hopes England will return the favour and tour the Caribbean in the near future. West Indies were the first team to tour the UK since the coronavirus lockdown started when they played three Tests in Southampton and Manchester in July. The women’s team also stepped in to play England when South Africa and India were unable to tour. “England know that at some point they will have to give us back something, so to speak,” Simmons said. The three-Test series -
which England won 2-1 - was played behind closed doors in bio-secure venues. “I think England know there is not an obligation but fair is fair,” Simmons told BBC World Service’s Stumped podcast. “I think there has been a lot of dialogue between our top brass and the English top brass so I’m sure something is being put in place.” West Indies’ T20 tour of Australia has been postponed but they are set to travel to New Zealand in October. “I think all the countries below the top three (England,
Australia and India) need some sort of assistance,” Simmons said. “It’s similar to the Premier League looking to help the EFL so something like that would be good.” An England and Wales Cricket Board spokesperson said they were “keen to support the West Indies”. “While the current international calendar doesn’t allow us to travel to the West Indies before our next scheduled visit in early 2022, we are currently in discussion with them about expanding this tour to include additional games,” a statement read.
Thursday October 01, 2020
Kaieteur News
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Michael Benjamin reflects on the sport that shaped his life (Continued from yesterday) Benjamin then traveled to Canada in August 1987 to visit his mother and continued training sessions in Toronto under trainer, Peter Wylie. Less than two months after arriving in the North American country he accepted a fight against Canadian Victorio Belcher and experienced his first loss by a fifth round TKO. “Up to then I had racked up an unblemished 8-0 record and the loss left me shattered,” Benjamin revealed. He attributed his distraught feelings to “an intrusion into my perceived aura of invincibility.” “I was so devastated that I felt like quitting the game,” claimed Benjamin. He remained in that sultry mood for almost a week and then engaged in serious introspection. “I questioned my ability and eventually labeled my decision to quit as “spontaneous irrationality,” he said. Before long the stocky fighter was back in the fray, engaging in training sessions in several gyms across the Toronto, Ontario area including Spadina, alongside renowned Guyanese boxer, Nedrie Simmonds and the Landsdown Boxing Gym. “I w a s t h e n u n o ff i c i a l l y handled by local boxing promoter, Keith “Buckilo” Bazilio who, following my inaugural loss, organized an international bout against Spaniard, Ramon Zavala, at the sports Hall. For me it was a redemptive affair so I trained exceptionally hard and came out victorious.”
The former lightweight and welterweight champion said that he had had many memorable bouts but the one that stands out is the Jeff Roberts encounter for the local lightweight title in November 1987. He said that it was his first attempt at a local title, “It was a grueling fight that taxed my physical and mental energies. I won by a close shave but my fans were discontented. For weeks I could not venture out of my home without being approached by Guyanese boxing buffs, some adoring, some disgruntled, all clamoring for a rematch. Unfortunately, that fight never happened,” said Benjamin. Benjamin also rated the first encounter against Barrington Cambridge, in May 1990, as a tough one. Cambridge had him tottering on the ropes in the seventh round but Benjamin displayed the propensities of a warrior, survived the onslaught and rebounded to knockout Cambridge in the following round. “It was an unbelievable display that earned me great respect from some fans while the naysayers labeled the feat a fluke, agitating for a return. They got their wish in December of the same year and Cambridge managed to reverse the verdict on points. “I am not one to bellyache but I still feel cheated of that fight. I remember that Cambridge’s jaw was broken yet the referee refused to call a halt.” Nonetheless, Benjamin credits Cambridge with
Family man- Michael Benjamin with his wife, son and daughter. (Facebook)
Michael Benjamin then as the Guyana Light and Welterweight champion. (Facebook)
‘courage and the heart of a lion.’ Benjamin feels that he was treated unfairly on many occasions by those he trusted as well as officials of the Guyana Boxing Board of Control (GBBC). He said that one such situation occurred in the early nineties when he was initially scheduled to face off with fellow Guyanese boxer, Rawle Frank. “While preparing for the bout, Frank breached the rules and was knocked out in French Guiana by Ludovic Proto, in defiance of the statutes of his contract. A certain member of the GBBC collaborated with the promoter to infringe on my rights, ordering me to sign a new contract devoid of fresh negotiations. I was also told that I had to refund the $25,000 advance I had received for the initial bout.” Benjamin said that he rebelled against the stance which sparked a dispute with the promoter, who received full backing from a key GBBC official. The matter was investigated by the late Director of the NSDC, Ken DeAbreau and ended up in the High Courts before Chief
Justice, Desiree Bernard and subsequently, a full blown matter before the late Judge, Desmond Birch Smith. The GBBC was supposed to have been representing my interests but those officials left me in the wilderness,” bemoaned Benjamin. He mentioned another sordid experience, this time with one of his managers. “I’ve had three of them in my boxing life but this particular one proved to be dishonest and I was constantly receiving unexplained deductions from my purse,” Benjamin said. “At that time the President of the GBBC was the late Frederick Rampersaud. I filed a complaint and he convened a meeting with his officials, myself and the manager in question,” Benjamin claimed. The former champion said that the GBBC officials did uncover vast deficiencies and ordered the manager in question to pay up, which he did. “Boxing managers are a cagey group and most boxers fall prey to them which negatively impacts their career,” Benjamin said. “I’ve managed to make a smooth conversion from
sports to academics and have acquired a Diploma and B a c h e l o r ’s D e g r e e i n Communication from UG,” he revealed. Benjamin also informed that he studied Spanish at the Venezuelan Institute of Culture and pursued the subject as a minor at UG. He said that he owes a debt of gratitude to former Registrar (UG), Vincent Alexander, who was instrumental in his acceptance into the tertiary institution. To this effect the astute pugilist practiced journalism, first at the Stabroek News, where he wrote a weekly feature, ‘Knockout Punch,’ and then Kaieteur news, as a sports reporter and feature writer. Benjamin also hosted ‘The Sports Show’ on HBTV 9 and a similar programme on GWTV 2. Benjamin also served as a boxing commentator on the defunct Guyana Broadcasting Corporation. Benjamin has since given his life to Jesus Christ following several experiences that convinced him that God was inspiring
him to ‘come into his kingdom.’ “I could have been dead after several accidents that broke my nose bridge, severely injured my back, almost gouged out my right eye and the last one that left me somewhat physically incapacitated,” Benjamin mused. He said that he taught at several schools around Georgetown including North Ruimveldt Multilateral, North Georgetown Secondary and the St Margaret’s Primary among others. “I refuse to subscribe to the view that boxers are unintelligent and I hope that my (academic) feats lend some strength to that belief,” Benjamin said. He is currently a Public Relations Officer at the Ministry of Housing and Water. Quizzed on his views of the current state of the sport, Benjamin emphatically retorted, “My mother always advises that when you have nothing good to say about something, remain mum. So for my response I’d say, “Mum’s the word.” (Sean Devers)
Michael Benjamin (left) and Sean Devers at a boxing event. (Facebook)
Ruthless Nadal stays West Indies coach Phil on course for 13th Simmons hopes England French Open title tour Caribbean West Indies were the first team to tour the UK since the coronavirus lockdown. (Getty Images)
– Spain’s Rafael Nadal during his second round match against Mackenzie McDonald of the US at the French Open Tennis tournament. (Reuters/Gonzalo Fuentes)
t r o Sp BCB seeks government input into the development of practice facilities in Berbice Serena Williams withdraws from French Open with Achilles injury
GRFU boss remains optimistic for 2020 rugby tourney.
“Not ruling out competition”- GRFU Boss
Serena Williams has been forced to withdraw from the French Open with an Achilles injury. (Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)
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