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Another fully Wednesday Edition NEWS vaccinated person among six latest COVID-19 fatalities AIETEUR

September 29, 2021 - Vol. 14 No. 28

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com

Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly

Price $80

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Online readership yesterday, 104,268

By 2025, Guyana’s payment of ExxonMobil’s taxes will be equivalent to 2021 budget p. 2

- Int’l Financial Expert, Tom Sanzillo

Family beats Sputnik V second driver who ran dose arrives - Health over relative in Guyana Minister Coalition’s Chief PR Imran Khan succumbs to COVID-19 p. 16

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Bandit beaten Brother admits to beating sibling during home to death with 2x4 Protest to change all foreign contracts continues. invasion p.

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- file to be sent to DPP for advice

Digicel Guyana owes Govt. $1 Billion in fees p.

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- Unauthorised Spectrum Usage discovered by telecoms agency YOU WILL NEVER BE ABLE TO REAP 1/10th OF YOUR TRUE VALUE on Kaieteur WHEN THERE IS SILENCE, CORRUPTION and SECRECY.@11:00hrs Radio 99.1/99.5FM

Kaieteur News

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Wednesday September 29, 2021

By 2025, Guyana's payment of Exxon's taxes will be equivalent to 2021 budget - Int'l Financial Expert, Tom Sanzillo

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ccording to the Stabroek Block Production Sharing Agreement (PSA), the Government of Guyana has agreed to exempt ExxonMobil and its partners, Hess Corporation and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, from the payment of several taxes such as Capital Gains Tax that other local companies are made to pay. And in the instances where the

government has agreed to accept the payment of taxes, it has chosen to pay same on behalf of the oil companies.

By 2025, such an unbelievably sweet tax deal will cost the Guyanese people US$1.7B—the equivalent of its 2021 national budget.

This shocking revelation was made in a recent report by the Institute of Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), and its Director of

Financial Analysis, Tom Sanzillo.

This latest report examines the impact of the exorbitant tax concessions and waivers given to ExxonMobil and its partners.

In his report titled: Guyana's Tax Giveaway: Country Pays Exxon, Hess and CNOOC's Annual Income Taxes, Sanzillo was keen to note that the PSA establishes that income gained by the contractor and the other

parties is taxable but would be handled by the Minister of Natural Resources. The tax would be paid over to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) from Guyana's share of the oil money, following which, the oil companies would receive a receipt stating that the said tax was settled. This would be International Financial presented by the oil companies to the Expert, Tom Sanzillo (Continued on page 3)

Wednesday September 29, 2021

Kaieteur News

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Digicel Guyana owes Govt. $1 billion in fees - Unauthorized Spectrum Usage discovered by Telecoms Agency U-Mobile Inc. which trades as Digicel, has recently come under scrutiny with the Government as rapid moves are apace to maximize the benefits of a l i b e r a l i s e d telecommunications sector.

Documents seen by this publication confirmed that, within weeks of liberalisation, the Irish company headed by Dennis O'brien occupied spectrum without being issued with the requisite frequency authorization. Such use of spectrum would hinder and restrain the ability of other licenced entrants to utilize their duly authorized spectrum fully.

The issue has since escalated with the recent discovery that the company has again started to occupy additional spectrum without the requisite authorizations, even before the Government could review the new frequency band.

Digicel has also approached the courts seeking to halt the Government's spectrum issue and if successful, could delay the deployment of services by competing

Andre Griffith, Director of Telecommunications Agency

Gregory Dean, CEO Digicel Guyana carriers, which would consequently impact the access of the public to these services. In its suit, Digicel claims to have a legitimate expectation to the unauthorized use of spectrum.

But this approach appears to be thwarting the process and the benefits of liberalisation to consumers.

GTT has indicated that it will be deploying a 4.5 G Network and has already been legally granted spectrum to begin this process. However, GTT has already written to the

By 2025, Guyana's payment of...

From page 2 American tax authorities to prevent being taxed on their profits which are shipped from Guyana to their head offices.

Sanzillo estimates that Guyana may receive annual oil payments that amount to approximately US$6.8 billion in pre-tax revenue from 2021 to 2025. But of this amount, US$1.7B accounts for corporate taxes Guyana will pay for ExxonMobil and its partners.

“Using the current tax corporate tax rate of 25%, the Minister would be required to pay at least 25% of this amount, or US$1.7 billion,” he calculated. Sanzillo pointed out that corporate tax concessions can be useful if the country granting them derives some benefit from them, but this cannot be said of Guyana's agreement with ExxonMobil.

“This tax giveaway is just one more way that the public is being shortchanged,” he noted, adding it is one that is also “unnecessarily burdensome for Guyana.”

Further to this, Sanzillo drew attention to the “unwillingness” of the current administration to make public, the full details regarding tax compliance and payment, citing that it raises “even more questions about the fairness of this deal.”And while the g o v er n men t u n d er th e leadership of President, Irfaan Ali, pledged on numerous occasions to be transparent about the details of the oil sector, many questions are still left unanswered. IEEFA plans to publish additional details and analyses of contract provisions that benefit the companies at the expense of Guyana's fiscal health.

Dennis O'brien, Chairman of Digicel Te l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n s Agency, stating that it will expeditiously transition to the assigned spectrum, but may be prevented from doing so because of unauthorized use in one of its spectrum bands.

It therefore asked the Te l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n s Agency and the Ministry, to take the necessary steps at enforcing the law to prevent any such unlawful use. ENetworks have also written to the agency about interference in its licenced band, which is causing delays in its countrywide expansion.

This unauthorised use of spectrum is not the first time Digicel has been accused of

bypassing the legal process.

In March 2017, GTT alleged that Digicel was facilitating an “illegal, unlicenced transborder link between Guyana and Suriname,” an operation which Digicel has acknowledged on several occasions, and which amounted to “remarkable arrogance and disregard for rule of law in Guyana” according to GTT. In 2017, GTT claimed that Digicel has never provided any specific information in relation to this illegal bypass activity, which it believed deprived the national coffers of billions of dollars in tax payments. To date, Digicel has not made public whether it made any payment of the

tax assessments alleged by GTT. Similar to the present case, GTT expressed its frustration that Digicel avoided any responsibility for its illegal activities but instead, “[made] excuses or [launched] new and unfounded claims that are meant to distract the public and the media.”

Moreover, the operation of the bypass also entailed the use of valuable spectrum

by Digicel, which GTT had claimed was “simply taken as its own, without payment.” The company believed that Guyanese had “a right to know whether this spectrum has, in fact, been stolen by Digicel.”

Further revelations have also indicated that Digicel has not paid its licence fees for at least five years, an amount estimated to surpass $1 billion dollars.

T h e Te l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n s Agency has recently billed Digicel for these outstanding fees, requesting that they be paid within thirty (30) days.

Notably, companies

related to Digicel have disclosed financial constraints in the past with Digicel Group, the parent company of Digicel, filing for bankruptcy in 2020.

On the 5th of October 2 0 2 0 , t h e telecommunication sector in Guyana was liberalised w h e n t h e Telecommunications Act No. 18 of 2016, and the Public Utilities Commission Act No. 19 of 2016, were made effective.

The orders, which occurred within two months of the Government assuming office, ended a 30-year antic o m p e t i t i v e telecommunications monopoly that had left the local sector underdeveloped compared to the rest of the region.

Earlier this year, the Te l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n s Agency confirmed plans to issue additional spectrum licences, which would start the process to enable providers to offer expanded a n d u p g r a d e d telecommunications services.

Brother admits to beating sibling to death with 2x4 - file to be sent to DPP for advice A man is presently in police custody for allegedly battering his brother to death with a piece of two by four during an argument on Sunday night. Regional C o m m a n d e r, J a i r a m Ramlakhan, confirmed that the suspect has since confessed to the crime.

Initial reports by this publication had stated that Lakhram Dhurup, a Joiner of No.72 Village, Upper

Corentyne, Berbice, had collapsed and died at his home. However, investigations by the police revealed his brother was involved in his sudden death and an arrest was subsequently made.

According to the police, the suspect and Dhurup got into a heated argument over Dhurup's wife but the argument escalated and Dhurup choked the suspect.

The two men engaged in a scuffle and the suspect told police he armed himself with a two by four piece of wood and dealt his brother several lashes about the head, back and arms. After he collapsed, the suspect and his wife tried to revive him with Limacol but there was no movement. He was taken to the Skeldon Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Meanwhile, a post mortem examination was carried out on the body of Dhurup and it revealed that he died from shock with cerebral and cerebella haemorrhage along with a ruptured aneurysm.

Commander Ramlakhan has indicated that a file will be prepared to send to the Director of Public Prosecution, Shalimar AliHack, for advice.

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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

A certified conversation stopper The foreigners who come here to exploit our riches have shown that they can be every bit as smart as Guyanese political leaders, with a practice that they now adopt. What they were slow in picking up early, comes in a rush later, with no looking back after appreciating Guyana’s dark waters. It is stock in trade answer, one-size-fits-all response, drop-dead terminal, where all roads taken in this country lead: it is named CONFIDENTIAL. Politicians, from leaders to ministers in government to opposition members, all have prized secrets to be protected, to public servants with much to hide, to private and civil sector actors, it is the same dreary concealing story: CONFIDENTIAL. Ask a routine question that has no teeth, a fluffball one, like the friendly media brownnosers practice, and both politicians and public servants gush over about this much money being spent, that billion-dollar project and the other ones in the works, and something becomes immediately apparent. There is no stopping them from talking like a duck with diarrhea, since they all recognise an opportunity to aim high, and deliver self-serving propaganda.

They have at their fingertips all kinds of numbers, any manner of big visions, on the issues and projects, which their dirty, grubby paws have not fastened upon, as yet. This is how they are with information, meaning, before the dirty, selfhelping action begins to take place. The foreigners, no slouches themselves in the concealment department, quickly learn how business is done in Guyana, and what they can get away with, compliments of crooked politicians and their supporting cast of crooked handpicked cabal of rogues and scamps.

Thus, the foreigners come and adapt accordingly. They learn swiftly about the broad benefits of bringing up the protection of CONFIDENTIALITY. The Zijin Mining Group arrives in Guyana and plays the CONFIDENTIAL card. No time, no answer, no detail, no can do. Not even on basics, such as production targets, company prospects, leadership sentiment. It is a guaranteed showstopper. Zijin did it, Exxon gets Guyanese leaders to do it, the locals do. It is: CONFIDENTIAL, buddy; nothing doing.

CONFIDENTIAL bring all the probing, worrying questions to an abrupt stop. It is a long road, with many detours to divert those pressing for clarity, any degree of truth. The first one goes like this: UNAVAILABLE. Since, the senior officers are always unavailable to furnish any much-needed details, that is as good as neutralising all such alarming inquiries with a bolded big font stamp marked CONFIDENTIAL. There is no telling where these inquiries could lead, and before it is known, the horse is out the barn, the media has a field day, citizens are in an uproar, and leaders mortified. It is much better to let the proven wisdom of CONFIDENTIAL halt everything and all comers in their tracks. This is why Guyana’s highest officeholder, its head of state, a leader now recognised as an expert in delivering verbal balloons with little things and simple things gets all choked-up and tongue-tied when appealed to, or confronted with, issues that call for a straight answer. This is why Guyana’s clever Vice President, a former head of state himself of rather mean standing, also develops a powerful case of acute laryngitis, when gently pressed for the facts on oil or gold or governance. The man loses his voice, and those who question him wonder how they could have lost him, such a clean pair of heels he displays. It is the spectacle of this country’s top leaders, one elected by the people, who refuse to share or report any material information to the people. In a word, everything that matters is CONFIDENTIAL. But there is still one more twist to the Guyana CONFIDENTIAL soap opera. Because powerful politicians always have needy and greedy people serving at their beck and call, and dependent upon their whims and favours, they don’t have to do the dirty confidential deed. They pass the order: go out there and don’t say a single word. Talk up a storm, but do not say a word that could return and haunt, or expose either ourselves or our friends. CONFIDENTIAL, it is. It gets the job done a certain way. Any questions?

Wednesday September 29, 2021

Facebook – the latest weapon unleashed at me, I will prevail Dear Editor, Though I am not on Facebook, the story goes like this: somebody told somebody something, which prompted two other bodies to do what led to a criminal posting on that social media platform by yet another somebody. It is proof, once again, of how no good deed goes unpunished. How there is no honour in virtue in this country, where even little sacrifices end up with this manner of spoilage.

Commonsense says that this kind of accusation belongs with the Guyana Police Force. With other interested, concerned, and protective agencies of the state also engaged. And with every channel and medium explored and utilised for maximum exposure. Those making such deceptive and dangerous claims, and engaging in such targeting

on Facebook would want to take such a course, as necessary first and immediate steps strongly recommended.

I would, and I am already on the move with such steps, on a number of fronts. I intend to pursue across the board, and to wherever and to whomsoever they lead. I will not be deterred, despite the murky nature of social media, and the skills of underhanded political operators in this society. This will be a test case, though, as what we have here for institutions, and protections for all. Including me. It would also spotlight what we have here for conscience and leadership, the expanse of our citizenship. The problem, as I like to say, is that the bell, once rung, cannot be un-rung; or the toothpaste once squeezed, cannot be put back in the tube. Such is the irreversible taint that comes

and stains, where the objective is to take down today; maybe take out later.

I wonder how proud our powerful political leaders are today. I think that some places are just too low, too out of bounds, for even them, and their people to go. I guess I was wrong again. But this much I will say here and now to all involved in what is a malicious, libelous, and felonious act: if this is the best shot in the armory of poisoned weapons, then it is time to go back to the planning stage and start over with something else. Try another slingshot. Come up with another criminal concoction, be it from deep in the bowels of Freedom House or Office of the President; or wherever such cowardly ambushes are crafted and put into motion.

Still, the confirmation is revealing of how things are in this country, despite all the

blabber from the biased and bigoted about clean governance and clean communications and clean leadership. The people who follow leaders are only as untainted as they are. And when they are terribly tainted, which is the case here, then there is no limit. I did say before that I thought so poorly of national leaders that I would not share the same space with them, so despicable are the things they stand for, actually do. Some thought me wrong, and that I was also wrong for saying that, under no circumstance would I serve the people of this nation, because of the greatest distaste for being near their leaders, breathing the same air with them. I stand justified in such thinking, with proofs furnished.

Sincerely, GHK Lall

Public Service Ministry slow in providing employment for scholarship recipients Dear Editor, I beg for a portion of your newspaper to penned this letter today to express great frustration with the Ministry of Public Service, Scholarships Division’s slowness in providing swift employment to awardees who have benefitted from their scholarships. It is demeaning for a scholar to study a number of years, certified themselves with academical

and technical skillset, only to be told to wait as there is no job to suit their qualifications.

The question is: Why give thousands of scholarships of various disciplines when there are no jobs available?

Is it a political gimmick or a new format of winning votes come elections time?

I have graduated from the University of Guyana with a Bachelor of Science in Forestry, Grade Point

Average (GPA) of 3.3 since November, 2019 and no calls as yet. It’s really an annoyance to know that with all my hard work and dedication towards the Government of Guyana, scoring well above the average, passing all my courses, waiting patiently; my employment cannot be fixed. It is very depressing and torturous for our young minds who cannot find a

decent job to sustain themselves and their families especially during this pandemic.

Given a chance, I am ready and willing to take the responsibility to serve my homeland. I plead with folded hands towards the Ministry to please accelerate my employment process as I really want a job.

Yours truly, Raj Singh

The administration has appointed only a handful of women to prominent positions Dear Editor, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair.” ¯ Charles Dickens (1812-70), a Tale of Two Cities.

As Guyanese look forward to the best of times with its newfound oil wealth, they must contend with the worst oil contract imposed by ExxonMobil upon a hapless population, most of whom are not aware or are ignorant of the details of the lopsided contract. Recently, it has been revealed in some media outlets that the Minister was ordered to sign the oil contract that was prepared by officials at ExxonMobil and not by the minister responsible for energy and

mining at the time.

Embarrassed by the contract, which was hidden from the public for two years after it was signed, former president Granger relieved minister Trotman of the Energy portfolio. Presently, the most qualified Minister in the oil field holds the portfolio as Minister of Sport. Why? Today, foreigners are dominating the business and workforce landscape and they are awarded with all forms of contracts – including oil, construction of roads, buildings, and sea defence among others while local contractors like BK International (one of, if not the best in the country) are being pushed aside and denied. This is because some in the top echelon of government have accused BK of being a supporter of the former administration. We must remember that while in opposition, the government

of the day had promised to renegotiate the contract and govern in the interests of all, but now in office it has reneged on its promises and has gone back to its old pre2015 vindictive ways/ behaviour. Clearly, it shows that the season of darkness is upon the land once again as it was during its 23 years of terror, nastiness, and spitefulness of PPP rule. But with a victory margin of only 8,000 votes in the 2020 election, trouble could be on the horizon for the party in power. The truth is, none of the two major parties has the support base to win an election. They have to depend on cross over votes for victory since the Indo Guyanese population is pegged at 39 percent and Afro Guyanese is at 30 percent.

After only one year in office, such despair is permeating all strata of society. And while the PPP

has renewed its focus on being spiteful, the country today languishes in poor technology, (constant WIFI interruption within and to and from Guyana; outdated infrastructure and justice system; very poor health care services in public hospitals; pitiable banking system, and a litany of clumsiness, slothfulness, and arrogance in the Public Service. Not to mention the soaring cost of living, massive poverty and homelessness and a high crime rate in the country.

All this is happening considering one of the worst oil contracts which those in power have refused to renegotiate despite the government strongpoint to address poverty and improve the lives of the proletariat.

Meanwhile the emerging bourgeois finds favour with the ruling untouchables; at the expense of the masses (Continued on page 6)

Wednesday September 29, 2021

Rohit Persaud was an unsung hero in both political activism and public service Dear Editor, It is with a great deal of sadness that I learned of the passing of Comrade Rohit Bisnauth Persaud a former Chairman of Region Six (East Berbice). Who rose to that position in 1992 after fair and free elections that was absent for nearly three decades? Cde Rohit as he was affectionately known served in the position as regional chairman for more than a decade. He was a dedicated stalwart of the PPP an organisation he served selflessly for nearly five decades.

Cde Rohit joined the PPP in the late 50’s while employed as an assistant administrator at New Amsterdam Hospital. His passion for politics was fired by listening to a charismatic Dr. Cheddi Jagan speaking at a public meeting in Main Street, NewAmsterdam in 1957. He told me from then, there was no turning back as he fashioned a career as a militant political

activist. He studied political science in Moscow in a batch with Parag Sukhai, Premchand Dass, Roy Bissember, and Sydney Joseph. He worked as a PPP organiser in East Coast Demerara, East and West Berbice. He would succeed Balchand and later Bolha Persaud to become the party supervisor in Berbice in 1974. In that period, he worked closely with Ranji Chandisingh who was Education and Assistant General Secretary of the PPP until 1976 when Ranji defected.

My youthful days of political activism in the late 70’s was inspired by Cde Rohit activism famous among those was the distribution of thousands of handbills to Boycott the July10, Referendum and Kill the Bill campaign at the Berbice Stelling and car parks, Cde Rohit was at his best during election seasons as he worked tirelessly organising public meetings and political rallies. He

was a foot soldier that helped solidify the PPP as a formidable political force. Cde. Rohit admired Dr. Jagan with a reverence and a strong believer in the Marxist philosophy that argued for the primacy of the revolutionary ideals of the working-class movement. He was an avid reader but earned his knowledge from practice. He was capable of giving impromptu speeches when called upon. Cde Rohit came from a simple and humble family background and was never accustomed to any privileged nor special treatment. As a local political activist, he served with distinction and dedication and lived a simple life. He was an unsung political hero in both political activism and public service a cause to which he dedicated his entire life. Rest In Peace Cde Rohit your good work shall live on.

Yours truly, Rajendra Rampersaud

Chaos usually accompanying pension book distribution should be avoided Dear Editor, The Ministry of Human Services has published its advisory for the distribution of the one-off $25,000 old age pension and 2022 pension books, at centres across the country.

While the Ministry must be

commended for the roll out of these initiatives, as we observe the Month of the Elderly in October, it is posited the ensuing chaos and confusion which usually accompanies the pension books distribution exercise will put a blemish in the

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observance of the month set aside for our seniors. The distribution should be done alphabetically, as was the case in the pension vouchers encashment, during the early days of the pandemic.

Yours truly, Shamshun Mohamed

Extra-judicial killings have taken place during PNC and PPP regimes Dear Editor, In its news report broadcast late on Friday, September 24, 2021, News Source claimed to be quoting His Excellency the President of Guyana, responding in New York to questions put to him by the media.

The broadcast included a clip of the President’s voice, in which he declared, among other things, that reports of extra-judicial killings by the police during a term of office of the PPP were a false narrative.

The President of Guyana was declared lawfully elected after a series of judicial trials and took the Oath of Office as President on or about August 2, 2020.

The Oath of Office binds those who take it to “bear true faith and allegiance to the people of Guyana” and to uphold the Constitution of Guyana.

In the light of this Oath, and to correct any false impression arising from the accusations and responses in New York about extra-judicial killings by the police in Guyana, I make the following statements: 1.

Extra-judicial killings of suspects and targeted persons in Guyana by the police and other agents

of the State have taken place during the regimes of both the PNC and the PPP. 2.

As a citizen and activist over some decades, I have laid private prosecutions against police officers and a member of the Guyana Defence Force, alleging unlawful killing of citizens by them.

3.

In three wellknown cases, the testing of these allegations by a court was denied. In one case, the Magistrate rejected my application before calling for evidence. In two other cases, the Director of Public Prosecutions, then in office, wrote to the Magistrate concerned, ordering that the cases be removed from the court and not be prosecuted.

4.

The current President of Guyana may be too young to know that during the term of office of a PPP President, a wanted man,

with a female companion, had been cornered by police and army attachments in a small boarding house.

The wanted man apparently let the woman come out into the open before him. She was shot dead.

He was also shot dead when he came out into the open in surrender mode, with his hands in the air. The sitting President and the Head of the Presidential Secretariat both publicly welcomed the shooting of the wanted man, a member of the GDF. After nearly two decades, there is no inquest into these unnatural deaths.

The information in these statements can be verified from primary sources. I have not repeated facts compiled by civic or diplomatic agencies and published by them.

Yours truly, Eusi Kwayana

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There are some glaring grammatical errors committed by prominent organisations Dear Editor, I am not an English academic; however, I am intrigued to point out some of the glaring grammatical errors that are committed by prominent organisations.

There is a huge billboard at the traffic light on the Public

Road on the East Coast which directs persons to the University of Guyana. I posit that this billboard was not proofread by the authorities at the UG. It reads “UG Authorize Taxi”. I am convinced that ‘Authorize” has to be in past tense; hence,

it must read “UG Authorized Taxi”.

I had visited a pharmacy and I saw a certificate issued

by The Pharmacy Council of Guyana that read “It is hereby certified that the above name person has been duly registered…” It is the similar

error as above and should read “…above named…” where named is past tense. I urge and appeal to proof read before anything is published sometimes it can be a simple typo.

Yours truly, Kevin Ramesh

Proof of vaccination not required to seek care at GPHC Dear Editor, The Management of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) wishes to clarify that ANY patient who is seeking care within any of our facilities is NOT required to present proof of

vaccination in order to enter the compounds.

As stipulated by the Ministry of Health’s advisory circulated on August 12, 2021, “any patient seeking care at any public health facility across

the ten ad m i n i s t r a t i v e regions, whether vaccinated or not, MUST be allowed access to health care”.

The G P H C ’s Management remains committed to ensuring that all

our staff are properly apprised of our protocols and will promptly investigate and remedy a n y r e p o r t s o f p a t ients being denied access to care.

Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation

...The administration has appointed only a handful of women From page 4 who perpetually have to contend with horrible medical facilities, electric outages, lack of adequate potable water and a transportation system where drivers of all class of vehicles seem to be on a suicide mission on our narrow roads.

For a country that was the second largest exporter of gold after South Africa between 1995 and 2001,

and also a huge exporter of diamonds, sugar, bauxite, and rice, it begs the question as to why poverty and homelessness are increasing rapidly and why this government that promises to govern in the interests of all are handing out contracts worth billions of dollars to only families, friends, and supporters of the PPP. As an illustration, the

clumsy and devious mindset of the government has done nothing to improve the lives of the poor, create unity or rule in the interest of all, regardless of race, creed, party affiliation and sexuality.

It should be noted that since taking office, except for M i nisters, the administration has appointed only a handful of women to

state corporations and boards and to other prominent positions. We are living in a country that has forgotten time.

It shows that nothing has changed and, in the words of Mahatma Gandhi: truth alone shall endure, all the rest will be swept away before the tide of time.

Yours truly, Leyland Chitlall Roopnaraine

Wednesday September 29, 2021

It is Exxon and the Government versus the People of Guyana Dear Editor, A news report stated, “ExxonMobil’s local subsidiary was Monday added as a defendant in a case brought by two Guyanese who are asking the Guyana High Court to order the closure of that American supermajor’s operations here because of its impact on the environment.”

Dr. Troy Thomas and Mr. Quaddad DeFreitas are alleging that that their constitutional rights to a safe and healthy environment have been contravened by the Guyana Government’s entering into several petroleum agreements with EEGPL and its parent ExxonMobil Corp, that will produce large quantities of petroleum which when burnt, would create large amounts of greenhouse gases which would in turn, cause climate change making Guyana’s environment unsafe and unhealthy.

I was afraid that the day would come when our Government would be on the side of big oil against the people of Guyana. The Government had always acted as if it were the PR spokesman and defender of Exxon invoking “sanctity of contract” when they are pushed to renegotiate a bad oil contract signed by the PNC, and kept intact by the PPP which had promised to renegotiate the contract during the 2020 election campaign.

That was a “promise made, promise not kept.” On the matter of excessive and ongoing flaring by Exxon, the Government had been soft and very facilitative of the environmental abuses. The EPA gave an Environmental Permit to Exxon for 23 years, when the rules only allow for a five-year permit. It was the Dr. Troy Thomas/Melinda Janki duo that went to court and overturned that.

The oil operators continued their flaring, blaming it on a faulty gas compressor, and the Government was very understanding and accommodating.

The Vice President said, “we believe in a no flaring policy” yet ExxonMobil was reported as flaring natural gas of 15 million standard cubic feet per day for several months. (Will any gas be left for the gas-to-shore project?).

The EPA said it’s now six million cubic feet per day. It is as if our environmental laws

don’t matter and there is no “sanctity of contract” for us regarding the oil operators’ responsibility to follow the agreement concerning reinjection of “produced water,” and flaring only at start up and pilot levels.

If we are producing oil, the bulk of the benefits must be for the people of Guyana, not the oil companies.

We cannot allow ourselves to be robbed by the oil companies, and we cannot sit idly by aiding and abetting grave environmental violations. The EPA’s decision that the 12-well exploration campaign on the Kaieteur block project will not significantly affect the environment or human health, and that no Environmental Impact Assessment is needed, is simply ridiculous and outrageous!

The government is still unprepared and lacks the capacity to audit oil and monitor operations, we are unsure of insurance coverage for oil spills, there is no transparency and accountability, no local content policy, no updated legislation to allow the use of the Natural Resource Fund – we are starting the oil journey with the “resource curse” syndrome.

The Government listens to the beat of its own drum, ignoring the stakeholders and the people’s voice. And the “installed” Opposition PNC is in a deep coma.

President Ali said, “we are a rich country of poor people,” and the VP said at the Conference in Texas, “we don’t see ourselves wealthy as yet, oil revenue, the magnitude that would see major flows to Guyana is not coming for the next few years.”

According to Jagdeo, “US$300M/US$400M a year now is not a lot of money and many people think, oh the wealth will come tomorrow or, it’s here today and suddenly have to start splurging.” The Vice President, as such was adamant, “we have to live within our means for quite a while into the future.” In the meanwhile, Exxon and shareholders are dancing all the way to the bank!

Will our Government use this lawsuit as leverage to renegotiate a new agreement with the oil companies, so we can all be rich and meet the long list of national needs?

Yours truly, Dr. Jerry Jailall

T N U L B . . .

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BL TLUNT.. UNT...B BL Wednesday September 29, 2021

Kaieteur News

Crime is so bad that the bandits are even brutalising police officers.

Cops are waylaid in and out of uniform, and robbed of personal property. On occasion, they are injured. If police officers are not safe, then no one is. And no statistics intended to soothe will change the perceptions of citizens. Widespread insecurity is a national reality.

PAGE 07

Kaieteur News

PAGE 08

Wednesday September 29, 2021

Minister Mustapha unveils emerging opportunities for agriculture at GMSA's Business Luncheon

T

he Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) on Friday, September 24, 2021, had its first Business Luncheon this year with approximately 70 participants which included the GMSA membership and other specially invited guests.

In anticipation of the imminent observance of Agriculture Month held annually in October, guest of honour, Minister of Agriculture (MoA), Zulfikar Mustapha M.P. gave the keynote address.

The Minister was accompanied by his esteemed MoA delegation w h i c h i n c l u d e d M r.

Mandanlall Ramraj, Director General, at the MOA; Ms. Delma Nedd, Permanent Secretary at the MOA; Mr. Aditya Persaud, Senior Compliance Officer at the Ministry; Mr. George Jervis, the Ministry's Chief Technical Officer; and Dr. Richard Blair, Advisor attached to the CARICOM

Agri-Food System at the Ministry.

President of GMSA, Mr. Rafeek Khan, in his opening remarks lauded the ambitious foresight of Guyana becoming the breadbasket of the Caribbean. However, he posed a challenge to all stakeholders to start this initiative by first becoming a self-sufficient state.

M r. K h a n s t a t e d , “Guyana has been an important supplier of fresh farm produce and processed farm products to the Caribbean.

While we have the potential to be the breadbasket of the Caribbean, I would like to challenge our dear country of Guyana to realize this ambitious desire locally first”.

He indicated that in previous years, imports of agricultural products far exceeded that of exports, and there needs to be a strategy to reverse this continuous trend.

“For this to happen, we need more export-oriented domestic production and

manufacturing of agro products,” stated Mr. Khan.

export markets as well as high-end local markets.

The GMSA President urged all and sundry to collectively pay attention to household food security and nutrition by putting measures in place to mitigate adverse effects of seasonal food production and price volatilities.

He also encouraged those present to get involved in home-gardening, as this is an integral part of local food systems, and the agricultural landscape of developing countries, such as Guyana.

During the delivery of his keynote address, Minister Mustapha was keen to note that the Government of Guyana and the Ministry of Agriculture recognize that emerging opportunities in agriculture for the private sector in Guyana's oil and gas economy is immensely important.

The Minister said, “Firstly, agriculture and manufacturing will prove to be critical in counteracting any adverse effects

Alluding to the importance of the MoA partnering with the private sector, Minister Mustapha said, his Ministry has facilitated and created an environment which supports investment opportunities and recovery efforts in priority areas such as agroprocessing, coconut, corn and soya bean, niche vegetables, beef, dairy, poultry and aquaculture development.

He furthered shared with attendees, that the Government's proactive role in the development of the local processing sector through a programme that aims to improve the quality of existing agro-processing products, develop incubation centers in strategic locations.

Wi t h t h e i n j e c t i o n o f GY$262.0M, the Ministry will be establishing certified processing facilities in Regions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9 and 10, which will be utilized for commercial production and product development to assist small and medium agro- processors.

He explained the integral role of the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) in supporting local content, and added that the GMC will be focusing on subsidizing raw materials for agroprocessors, to aid in reducing their production costs. The Minister stated, that GMC has some 2,100 locally produced items that are also available on supermarket shelves. He called on the private sector to buy local and reduce the imports of similar products and commodities that are produced locally.

Livestock was brought to the fore of the presentation as the Minister expressed his concern over dairy imports, since dairy as a percentage of total value of food imports, has increased from 4.3% to 8.7% during the periods 2018 and 2019, with an average import bill being US$27M. He was pleased to note, that recent investment in the establishment of dairy processing facilities by Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) and Amaya Milk Company, will address the large dairy import bill and gives a clear indication of foreign interest in boosting Guyana's economy. Further to this, Minister Mustapha mentioned some of the Government's incentives for

Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha

associated with the exploitation and capitalization of natural resources. Secondly, there is a projection of growth in national income, as the new oil and gas sector will serve to unlock opportunities in traditional sectors, principally agriculture and manufacturing…”

The Minister emphasized that Guyana is experiencing an influx of expatriates to serve the oil and gas and auxiliary sectors which inevitably increases the demand for high quality processed foods with greater domestic value-added.

This influx also ultimately implies a large and potentially explosive future growth in the downstream components of the food value chain particularly farming, processing, wholesaling, retailing and logistics.

In this regard, the Minister stated that the Government is committed to directing substantial resources towards the alleviation of chronic under investment in public goods.

The programmes initiated include adequate stable power and water supply, credible quality and safety standards with efficient testing and enforcement to enhance agriculture health and food safety and traceability services, all of which will provide an entry point for the demanding

investment in the livestock sector, including VAT-free concession and waivers on Import Duty for machinery, equipment tools and supplies for agro-processing, technical and extension support by the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA), concession on large scale livestock farming, zoning for livestock and crop farmers, and tax concession on investment in agroprocessing facilities.

Another investment for livestock includes the establishment of abattoirs that meet international Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) standards. This initiative will open new markets and will see the construction of a cattle abattoir in Region Five, and a swine abattoir in Region Four.

The GLDA is also in the process of introducing its Livestock Information System to improve the availability, reliability and accuracy of livestock data for decision making and reporting, and enhance animal traceability and surveillance capacity.

Minister Zulfikar reiterated that the agriculture sector remains integral for future development of the nation.

As such, he assured that oil and gas resources will be used to develop Guyana's food systems and create an environment where the private sector can flourish.

One of the main concerns is the cost of energy, and has remained the most difficult hurdle to overcome for competitiveness in agrop r o c e s s i n g a n d manufacturing sectors. With the gas to shore project expected by 2024, the Minister affirmed that the project will not only benefit the agriculture sector immensely, as the cost of energy can reduce by as much as 50%, but also allow the country to conserve on foreign exchange which is lost through the importation of fuel.

In closing, the Minister thanked GMSA for the opportunity to engage the Membership and all stakeholders, as he sought to put into perspective the absolute importance of both the agriculture and manufacturing/processing sectors, and the key roles they play in an emerging oil and gas economy.

Kaieteur News

Wednesday September 29, 2021

PAGE 09

Drastic action is needed not appeals for vaccination If the government is not prepared to act to stem the rise in COVID-19 cases, then the population must take their own actions to protect the society. There is no other option right now because the government is refusing to take firmer action to stem the pandemic.

You cannot continue to do the same things and expect different results. Yet this is exactly what many Guyanese are hoping for in relation to the pandemic.

They expect to continue going about their usual business, yet expect the numbers of COVID-19 infections and deaths to decline. It does not work that way; it is either we change the way things are done or face the inevitable consequence of more than 1,200 deaths which was what one model had predicted when the pandemic first commenced, and based on the assumption that little restrictions would have been put in place.

The government has made its decision. It had to have known that when it continued last August with the six-phased reopening of the economy, which the APNU+AFC had initiated, that there would have been deaths.

It faced a situation in which non-essential businesses had been closed for almost five months and many had in fact been reopening in violation of the then regulations. It most likely was under pressure from both its business supporters and also informal workers who were facing the

Dem

boys seh...

brunt of the effects of the lockdown of the economy.

The government therefore went ahead and reopened the economy and the airports. In addition, the deaths have piled up.

The government does not seem inclined to go to any form of lockdown. And sadly, there is no appetite in the country for even a targeted lockdown of nonessential businesses in Regions Three and Four.

Generally, also, there have been no region-specific restrictions. One set of restrictions has applied to all and given poor enforcement, much of it has amounted to non-restrictions.

At present, businesses are required to ensure that anyone entering their places of business is vaccinated (with at least one dose).

However, which are the businesses that are enforcing this regulation?

One major supermarket chain is strictly enforcing the regulations. But it is public knowledge that at least three other supermarket chains are not doing so. Many major hardware stores are not enforcing the regulations.

There is no request for proof of vaccinations at many markets around the country.

In the meantime, to get into a commercial bank, you either have to present a valid PCR test or show proof of vaccination. And while this is happening, the majority of the businesses in Guyana are not implementing the new regulations. And is the government bothered?

The new restrictions are

not aimed at preventing the spread of the virus. The new restrictions requiring proof of vaccination for entry to public places is aimed at increasing vaccination. And it is working; the numbers have been steadily increasing over the past few weeks.

B u t th e d eath s ar e increasing and the government is singing one tune: “people should get vaccinated.” But despite this, there is still a spike in cases.

Vaccination is necessary but it cannot be the only measure. There has to be special distancing - and social distancing does not only mean staying at least six feet away from others.

Social distancing also means reducing contact with others. And unless there are closures of non-essential businesses, the increases in the curfew hours and limitations on the workweek, the spike in cases will not just continue for a few weeks. It will continue for a few months.

The government will not close non-essential businesses in Regions Three and Four. It will not reduce the public sector workweek to four days. It will not employ staff rotations even though its own regulations require this. And it will not extend the curfew hours.

It is left to responsible businesses and citizens to take action. But the profit motive is too strong a temptation to encourage persons to take action. In short, there is no appetite for restrictions. Even the media is not calling for a lockdown

Blue book better dan death certificate

Dem boys wan believe dat when yuh get admit to de COVID Hospital dat de medical people does ask yuh if yuh get vaccinated. It won't surprise dem boys one bit if some ah dem patients, wah claiming dem vaccinated, never get vaccinated at all.

When some people start panting fuh breath and realise dat dem mek a mistake by not tekking de vaccine, it is not beyond dem to claim dem vaccinated when in fact dem never tek a shot. Some ah dem shame fuh admit dem was wrong about de vaccine and dem know people gan think less bout dem fuh nat tekking de vaccine.

So dem might shame fuh seh dem nah vaccinated.

Dat is why dem boys nah certain how many ah dem fully or partially vaccinated people who died bin really get a shot or

two. Dem boys hoping dat de Ministry gan get dem database up and running so dat dem can verify wah dem patients sehing.

Dem boys expect 'breakthrough' infections and deaths. But dem numbers a lil bit too high fuh dem boys liking. So dem waiting fuh de Ministry fuh verify if dem wah dead vaccinated or nat.

Delta is a serious variant. If yuh nah careful it gan knack yuh down. Dem boys feel dat Guyanese tekkin' dis COVID thing too light.

Dem boys still seeing people in minibus without mask.

Dem still seeing people walking in groups without masks. Dem boys still seeing some supermarkets and business place letting people in without asking fuh de Blue Book!

But dem boys seh Blue Book is de best defence against death certificate Talk half and tek yuh vaccine!

as it did in the early days of the pandemic. The media is looking at its bottom line and while it is concerned about deaths, its concern is not of that degree to force it to call for drastic action.

Yet, this is precisely what is needed: drastic action. It is time therefore for citizens to take action. Reduce the number of days in which you go shopping. Reduce the number of times each week that you leave the house.

Keep all inter-personal interaction outside the home to a minimum.

If responsible members of the public reduce their public activities, it will have an impact. And if responsible businesses follow suit, the effect can be greater.

Businesses must introduce shorter hours of work. They can reduce the workweek or send their employees home earlier so that they do not have to be at

the car and bus parks during peak hours.

But will responsible businesses do these things when there is money to be made. It is doubtful whether they will.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)

PAGE 10

Wednesday September 29, 2021

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

My love/hate thing with Guyana: A reply to Captain Mazahar Ally I love my country but I will not obfuscate my episodic feelings of hate. I hate this country for how low-income and poor people simply do not have a voice to publicise the grievous things done to them.

On the other hand, those with resources have the wherewithal to broadcast to the nation, the harmful things done to them and the society listens and reads but the poor exploited woman, the violated labourer, the oppressed youth, have no voice, no pen.

Marvin Ruhoman has moved on with his life. He will never pen a letter on what happened to him at his workplace – Gitfland Mall. I had to take his employer to the Labour Ministry. He got what was financially due to him.

I rushed to the keyboard to compose this column immediately after reading a letter in this newspaper by captain, Mazahar Ally, CEO of the billionaire company, A. Mazaharally and Sons Ltd. The captain complained of woods being stolen from his forestry concession and he named the Guyana Forestry Commission and the Ministry of Natural Resources as culprits in the conspiracy.

Whenever I read the name Captain, Mazahar Ally at Ogle airport, two things come to my mind. It is because of those two incidents I pen this article. A plane belonging to the captain’s company disappeared. At the time, the captain’s sister, Mrs. Annette Arjoon-Martins was the CEO. The official conclusion by aviation authorities was that the plane went down in

hell, meaning the dense jungle of Guyana. There were two persons on board - the pilot and the baggage handler. It was reported in the press that the handler’s wife went to the company, naturally for compensation due to the dead husband. The company was not inclined to negotiate with the wife.

The sad dimension was carried by the press and I picked up on it in my column.

The company contacted my editor at the time, Adam Harris. My contestation was that the grieving wife had a story to tell. That is what the press is there for. Harris objected and I formally brought the matter to the publisher, Mr. Glenn Lall. He ruled that my piece on the wife’s plight was a legitimate issue for journalistic investigation.

A long time after, I met Mrs. Arjoon-Martins in the National Park, being an “impertinent man,” as I always were, I brought up the issue. She politely told me that the wife received what was due to her. Years after the wife told me a contradictory version. Of course, people like the wife go about their lives in obscurity and do not write letters to the press.

The story of the grieving wife and my encounter with Mrs. Arjoon-Martins happened a long time ago. I am wondering if the captain who is now the CEO can tell me what the wife actually received. The second memory of the captain has to do with my nephew.

He worked as the watchman at the captain’s home in Wight’s Lane opposite the Ministry of Public Works.

After complaining to me about working conditions, I secured a job for my nephew at GuyOil where he wouldn’t have had to work the graveyard shift.

My nephew was unable to

secure the monies that were due to him. That incident too was a long time ago. My nephew like countless others, including the wife of the baggage handler, never wrote about their feelings in the press.

The problem poor people have about publicising the wrongs done to them is the libel threat. Media houses are not going to print and air stories that could bring libel writs. A carpenter’s mother says that one of the most powerful business empires in Guyana did not pay her what her dead son was entitled to under the law when he died on the job and a libel writ will follow as night follows day.

I can write about Marvin Ruhoman because both the Chief Labour Officer and the then Minister of Labour, Keith Scott, were the very persons involved in overseeing the investigation in Ruhoman’s complaint. And he won his case. I was a panelist on NCN analysing the one-year anniversary of Dr. Ali’s presidency.

Frederick Kissoon I told the panel that it is nobody’s business how many private jets and yachts a person has. But the state must ensure that the wealth of society is shared. It must be shared. The rich must pay their fair share of taxes. US senator and future presidential candidate, Elizabeth Warren, accused billionaire owner of Amazon, Jeff Bezos of tax evasion.

Bezos went into space the other day. Some columnists wrote that he should have remained there.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)

Wednesday September 29, 2021

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

Kaieteur News

PAGE 12

Wednesday September 29, 2021

GPL, GWI to collaborate on improving Region Six services S

hoddy water service in the East B e r b i c e Corentyne (Region Six), will become a thing of the past as t h e G u y a n a Wa t e r Incorporated (GWI) has stepped in to address the growing concerns of residents.

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, M.P, has assured residents that they will soon receive an improved quality of treated water.

Residents have for months been complaining about the poor water quality they have been receiving.

Sixty-one-year-old Steven Kasinath, a councillor and resident of Chesney Village Corentyne, said the community has been severely affected by the fluctuating water service.

“For the past two to three months, the water comes on and off. There is no proper water flow but, in the night, like after 8 … we have water, but during the day when the housewives wish to use this water to do some little house chores, then there is no water to do it,” he told the minister.

Another resident, Kamaludeen Hussain said as early as 8 A.M, there is no water supply in the

community.

Kamaludeen stressed that basic services such as water and electricity must be prioritized. He hoped that by highlighting the issue, “it would ensure that we get 24hours water as promised and everything would be fine.

The resolution of this matter would show residents the seriousness of the government.”

GWI's Manager, Mr. Randolph Leitch said, part of the issue has been caused by faulty power lines that are the basis of constant power outages.

“For the past month and a half, we have been

Minister within Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, M.P

experiencing voltage imbalance from GPL because we have had customers complain that they have power at home but

no water.

So once GPL gets any fluctuation then the pump would trip off and that is why most of the homes would get

water during the day between the hours of 3 pm and 6pm. Sometimes it (water) comes back at 12 and then goes again at 2,” he explained.

Minister Rodrigues also addressed residents.

“I spoke with Minister (within the Ministry of Public Works) Deodat Indar, M.P, about this, and we are trying to see how best we can address the situation as quickly as possible because it is not only here, but in every region. We are looking at it; it has our attention so it will be addressed shortly.”

Minister Indar has (Continued on page 22)

Wednesday September 29, 2021

Kaieteur News

PAGE 13

Wednesday September 29, 2021

Kaieteur News

PAGE 14

$50K bail Abrams for man who Bandit beaten Zuil man hammered reportedly drowns while during home invasion allegedly On Sunday last, a man who tried to break into a home, was greeted with a sound thrashing by the owner.According to a police report, a thirty-three-yearold man who is said to be a mason of Tuschen, New Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo secured his home, leaving everything intact and retired to bed.

Around 04:00hrs, the man woke up and noticed the suspected bandit in a bending position in a corner, about two feet away from his

bed. At that time, the individual was holding a haversack which was later discovered to have one electric saw valued $30,000, one angle grinder valued $10,000, and one electric drill valued $9,000. The haversack with the stolen items belongs to the victim, and was valued at $2,500.

The victim then rushed to the suspect and subsequently apprehended him and dealt him several lashes with a nearby wire.

The suspect managed to

break free and jumped into a drain.The victim then raised an alarm and persons in the area came to his assistance and managed to capture the suspect.

Subsequently, the police were summoned and the suspect was arrested with the mentioned items. The suspect was escorted to the Leonora Cottage Hospital where he was treated, and later taken to the Leonora Police Station where he was placed into custody pending further investigation.

labourer head takingto bath in trench

Randall Latchman, who is accused of hammering a labourer to his head, was on Monday placed on $50,000 bail for the offence. The defendant appeared in the Albion Magistrate's Court before Magistrate Rabindranauth Singh, who read the attempt murder charge to him.

Latchman was not required to plead to the indictable charge which alleges that on September 23, 2021, at Canefield, East Canje, Berbice, with intent to commit murder, he wounded 54-year-old J e r e m y M a s s a y, o f Canefield East Canje.

Magistrate Singh granted the defendant bail in the sum of $50,000 and transferred the matter to Reliance Magistrate's

Charged, Randy Latchman.

Court. The matter was then adjourned to October 20, 2021.

Following the alleged

wounding of Massay, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) reported that on the day in question, Massay and the defendant's son had a misunderstanding over smoking. It is alleged that after the misunderstanding, the defendant went to Massay's home and confronted him.

An argument ensued between the two men and this lead to the defendant hammering Massay to his forehead and about his body. Massay collapsed and Latchman made good his escape on a bicycle.

According to the police report, Massay was transported to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital where he was seen and examined by a doctor.

The man was then admitted to the hospital.

Wednesday September 29, 2021

Kaieteur News

PAGE 15

Guyana's future is with agriculture, food sustainability - Pres. Ali

President, Irfaan Ali during his tour of the corn and soya bean project.

- Says Govt. will fully support massive soya bean, corn project in Ebini

P

resident, Irfaan Ali on Monday, said, that sustainable food and agriculture is the country's future, and that the Government will fully support the soya bean and corn project in Ebini which will help produce muchneeded feed for the poultry industry.

“As I have said before, t h i s i s o u r future—agriculture, food security and our ability to service the regional market is our sustainable future, and all of our efforts will be to ensure we transfer enough resources to this sector to make it viable and resilient.”

The Head of State took an on-the-ground tour of the 115-acre soya bean and fiveacre corn pilot projects in Ebini, Upper Berbice River, where he was able to closely inspect the crops and evaluate their growth.

He was also given a progress report on the project, and the plans for its expansion by David Fernandes of Bounty Farm, Alex Mendez of Dubulay Ranch and Shameer Mohammed from Royal Chicken.

The Head of State said that the existential crisis of climate change makes it more important for the agriculture sector to be resilient, and to be guided by scientific and technical standards.

The President said that after having a tour of the project and being able to do a hands-on inspection he is “very confident that this project will be a success”.

He thanked the members of the group, which include Guyana Stock Feed Limited, Royal Chicken, Edun's Poultry Farms and Hatchery, SBM Wood, Dubulay Ranch, Bounty Farm Limited and a Brazilian investor, for the labour, capital and effort they have personally put into the initial phase.

“From all the plans that I've heard and the work that I have seen, I am confident that they are on a journey to ensure that we are selfsufficient, and that we can have import substitution for both the soya and the corn to meet our local livestock feed requirements.”

The President also

commended the commitment and dedication of the group and challenged them to aim higher.

“What I have seen today is most pleasing, it is most remarkable.

I want to commend the guys but this is just the start.

We have to now replicate this ten-fold in the next crop and then of course, after that, we move to increase incrementally until we get up to the full production.”

CONSOLIDATION OF LAND President Ali noted that given the success of the pilot projects so far, it must be replicated on a larger scale.

He said that part of doing this, will be consolidating and making lands available.

The Head of State pointed out, that over the years many leases would have been given out across the country for agricultural purposes that are not being used efficiently, or at all up to this day.

As a result, he said, an assessment of those leases will be done.

“We have to get up to 75,000 acres for us to move to full production locally in this area. So in the coming weeks, we will be looking at how we can find that land that meets the soil requirements and the scientific requirements to achieve the target.”

DIVERSIFICATION OF GUYSUCO President Ali also pointed out that the project will give the Government the chance to diversify the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo). “ We a r e a l r e a d y discussing how we can expand this partnership, and one of the things that we have always talked about in GuySuCo, is to have diversification, and we are now discussing with the group how we can use one field in the next phase of the trial to do the same thing that we have done here; replicate the same thing and then to see the cost efficiency, the operation efficiency and the profitability, because this is not done for the love of it alone, it has to be profitable, it has to make financial and economic sense.”

The President said that lands in the various estates (Continued on page 22)

Kaieteur News

PAGE 16

Wednesday September 29, 2021

Pres. Ali still to appoint Teaching Service Commission - GTU President

M

onths after the G u y a n a Teachers Union (GTU) had written to President, Irfaan Ali, requesting that he appoint members to the Teaching Service Commission (TSC); the Union is still awaiting a r e s p o n s e o r a n acknowledgement of its letter.

According to the President of the GTU, Mark Lyte, President Ali's failure to appoint a new Commission,

could once again have the appointments of senior and junior teachers in limbo.

The TSC, which is tasked with promoting public school teachers, was dissolved about a month ago. As a constitutional body, the Commission usually comprises of four members nominated by the President, one member nominated by the opposition party, and another nominated by the GTU. According to Lyte, the

GTU is hopeful that the President will pick up the Union's letter that was sent since July 2021, and act on it steadily since the absence of the TSC has a significant impact not only on new appointees but also teacher's gratuity.

On Monday night, during a Globespan interview, Lyte revealed the worrying factors of the nonexistence of the Commission and stated, “We are concerned because right now schools are understaffed

and we cannot have new persons employed because there is no TSC.” The GTU President added that every year senior vacancies are published and teachers apply for those but due to the absence of the Commission, there will be no teacher vacancies published in 2021 and the senior appointments will not be made. Lyte further stated that, “Some teachers may retire at their present status without being given the

President of Guyana, Irfaan Ali

President of the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU), Mark Lyte

opportunity to be promoted.

We have some teachers that are going to migrate and they are going to lose the opportunity to move to

another level.”

Without moves to install a new Commission, Lyte said that the Union is worried that (Continued on page 22)

Sputnik V second dose arrives in Guyana – Health Minister Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony said yesterday, that persons who took their first dose of the Sputnik V vaccine over the last three months, will be able to access their second jabs as the shots are now available.

Another consignment of the vaccine arrived in Guyana Monday evening, Dr. Anthony disclosed during Tu e s d a y ' s C O V I D - 1 9 update. He said persons can begin receiving the shots today.

“So, we have received a quantity of second dose and what we are doing is encouraging anyone who require their second dose to come out from tomorrow (Wednesday) at the various sites across the country so that they can get their second dose Sputnik.”

“We know that there are a number of persons waiting, and so what we'll be doing is a first come, first serve basis.

So, come out and get your vaccine, so I want to really encourage people, use the opportunity, come out and

get the vaccine so that you know you can be fully vaccinated.” Minister Anthony said.

Guyana, like many other countries around the world using the Russian vaccine, has been experiencing delay in the shipment of the second dose. Officials say the global shortage is due largely to the spike in cases of the Delta variant.

The Sputnik V vaccine is reported to have been most effective against this latest variant.

Minister Anthony has also noted, that government will continue to push forward in trying to access the vaccines in the quickest possible time for the Guyanese population.

To date, 356,062 or 69.4% of adults in Guyana have taken their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, while 184,941 or 36.1% are now fully vaccinated against the coronavirus. Additionally, 23,237 or 31.9% of adolescents have taken the Pfizer vaccine.

Wednesday September 29, 2021

Kaieteur News

PAGE 17

Coalition Chief PR succumbs to COVID-19

Chief Public Relations (PR) Officer for the A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance For Change Coalition (APNU+AFC) party, Imran Khan, has succumbed to complications arising from the COVID-19 virus.

Kaieteur News understands that Khan, 43, died yesterday while he was under observation and treatment at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the COVID-19 Infectious Disease Hospital at Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara.

Health officials confirmed that Khan, a former Head of the Department of Public Information (DPI) and Director of Public Information at the Office of the President was unvaccinated at the time of his death.

Khan was reportedly rushed to the COVID-19 Hospital on the September 15, days after he tested positive for the virus and encountered trouble breathing.

Two days before he passed, the Coalition PR Officer was active on social

media.

He offered thanks to the persons who were praying for his recovery.

“Thank you for all your love, prayers, messages of encouragement and support.

I am overwhelmed beyond explanation and I am in excellent spirits…Please be assured that I am fighting and there is no giving up. One Love,” he said.

Khan's death comes as a shock to many of his close family, friends, colleagues and those in the media fraternity.

Moments after news of his passing became public; tributes started pouring in, with many persons expressing their shock and grief.

A relative of Khan related in a Facebook post that he was taking some precautions to avoid contracting the deadly virus. The relative noted that Khan was not taking part in any in person meetings, only virtual ones but that he was forced to leave his home to attend a brief meeting and that is when it is believed that he became infected with the virus.

Leader of the Opposition, Joseph Harmon, expressed

Chief PR Officer of the APNU+AFC, Imran Khan

sadness at the loss of his Communications Officer and friend. “It is with a heavy heart that I write on my own behalf and that of the APNU+AFC Coalition to announce the untimely death of our friend and colleague, Imran Khan, who served as Communications Director in the Office of the Leader of the Opposition up to today,” Harmon said in a statement.

“To his wife, Tamara, and other family members we offer our deepest condolences and regret.”

Harmon added, “When we read his upbeat note on Sunday asking for a fruit salad and praising coconut

water, we assumed he had passed the worst and was well on the way to recovery.

The suddenness of his death some hours later attributed to acute respiratory failure has been a terrible shock to us all.”

Expressing similar sentiments, Former Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo, said that Khan served as one of his closest allies during the Coalition's time in office.

“It is hard to believe much less accept that Imran Khan has died. Guyana has lost a brilliant light, snuffed out by the COVID-19 killer disease. This is indeed the

dark time for all of us who have known and loved Imran,” he said.

Khan was an active member of the Alliance For Change (AFC) at the time of his death. The party issued a statement expressing bereavement.

“It is with deep sadness and tremendous pain that the Alliance For Change regrets the passing of one of its finest members, Imran Khan.

Imran was a committed member of the AFC and later the APNU+AFC Coalition who epitomised some exceptional qualities - youth, commitment, enthusiasm and resistance,” the AFC said in the statement.

The party noted that Guyana was everything to Imran Khan.

The AFC added that prior to 2015; Khan remigrated from Antigua to “contribute to the struggle” as he would often say.

“He joined the Alliance For Change and brought his exceptional knowledge of the media and public relations environment to the day-today operations of our small Party allowing us to “bat above our league.

His u n m a t c h e d c r e a t i v i t y,

knowledge of the digital media environment and excellent writing skills were seen in two election campaigns, and while he managed the Department of Public Information which he rebranded and reorganised in 2015 as its' Director of Public Information,” the AFC said in its statement.

Additionally, in its tribute, the party noted that “Imran loved the simple things in life, gaffing with ordinary citizens wherever he encountered them and was a true friend to many.”

The AFC said that his passing is a tragic loss of monumental proportions.

“The Alliance For Change expresses sincere condolences to his family and friends,” the statement concluded.

Khan's death comes at a time when Guyana is recording a rapid rise in the number of COVID-19 infections and an increasing number of deaths as a result of the disease. For yesterday, alone, the Ministry of Health recorded six deaths inclusive of Khan's.

The Ministry also reported 123 new infections (Continued on page 22)

Wednesday September 29, 2021

Kaieteur News

PAGE 18

Bus driver charged for causing death of Baramita Village Councillor The 23-year-old bus driver who was involved in the horrific accident on the Baramita trail which claimed the life of Wanita Sobers, former Secretary of the Baramita Village Council,

was on Monday charged for causing her death.

Making his first court appearance was Deonarine Kumar of Port Kaituma, Region One who appeared in the Matthew's Ridge

Magistrate's Court before Magistrate Delon Bess where the charges were read to him.

Kumar was not required to plead to the charge which alleges that on June 16, 2021

while on the Baramita Access Road he drove minibus BPP 9730 in a manner dangerous to the public, causing the death of 39-yearold Sobers, a mother of one, formerly of Central Baramita Village. The defendant was also charged for being an unlicenced driver and having an uninsured motor vehicle. He pleaded not guilty to both charges and was released on $500,000 bail.

The driver is expected to reappear in court on November 2, 2021.

On the day in question, the woman was travelling in the minibus which was heading to Baramita Village from Matthew's Ridge along with four other occupants, one of whom was her father, when the accident occurred.

The driver had reported to police that while descending a hill on the southern side of the road, his vehicle started to travel in a left-to-right motion. He further reported that he tried to apply brakes to stop the bus but despite his efforts, it collided with a bump on the northern side of the road.

Due to the collision, the woman and the driver were flung out of the bus while

Dead, Wanita Sobers.

three other passengers were left trapped in their seats.

Persons who were scene immediately rushed those injured to the Baramita Health Centre for treatment where the woman died upon arrival.

Christopher James, the dead woman's father who was also a passenger, had told Kaieteur News that on that day they had travelled to Matthew's Ridge to purchase some phones after hearing about the Digicel promotion there. It was while returning home that afternoon tragedy struck, a devastated James recounted.

This publication learnt that the mother had died the day before celebrating her 40th birthday. She worked

Charged, Deonarine Kumar. with the village council for about two months and was described as a jovial and friendly person.

Kaieteur News

Wednesday September 29, 2021

Japan to help Guyana with COVID-19 grant - $205.8M to purchase ultrasound equipment, ambulances The Government of Guyana was recently given a $205.8 million (US 1,029,000) grant by the Japanese government to boost its fight against COVID-19.

Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony on Monday shared this information during his weekly COVID-19 update. Over the last six months the Ministry of Health (MOH) had been working on securing the grant. The money received will be used to purchase equipment for the health sector.

Dr. Frank Anthony added, “Some of the things that we will be getting through the grant include imaging equipment,

ultrasound that we can use with the diagnosis of COVID-19. We are getting at least four different ultrasound machines. We are also getting some sterilizers, ECG machines, pulse oximeters and so forth.” These pieces of equipment are expected to arrive in Guyana in November.

Additionally, four new ambulances will be purchased through this grant.

Guyana has received a generous number of donations of medical equipment, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), funding and COVID-19 vaccines from several countries, non-governmental organization and international partners thus far.

Taxi driver robbed at gunpoint by passengers A 34-year-old taxi driver was on Tuesday evening robbed by two armed men who entered his vehicle and requested to be taken to a hotel.

According to police, the incident took place around 22:15hrs at the Exit in Festival City, South Ruimveldt.

Enquires disclosed that the driver of the motorcar HD 336 was proceeding along the Plaisance Public

Road, when he stopped for two men to enter his car.

The men requested to be taken to a hotel located at the Exit in Festival City, South Ruimveldt. Upon arriving there, one of the men who was in the front passenger seat pulled out a gun and pointed it at the victim, while proceeding to relieve him of his items which included one BLU smart phone valued $15,000, one Alcatel smart

phone valued $8,000 and a car key. During this time, the other perpetrator in the back seat was choking the driver leaving him unable to defend himself. Thereafter, both of the perpetrators made good their escape on foot in a northern direction.

Checks were made in the area for the perpetrators by the police, but those efforts proved futile.

Police investigations are currently in progress.

PAGE 19

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday September 29, 2021

Family beats driver who ran over relative

A Mahaica man was forced to seek medical care for himself after he received a sound thrashing from the relatives of a pedestrian whom he had run over with his car.

The man, Deon Downden of Lot 12 River View, Mosquito Hall, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara, was last Sunday evening assaulted by a group of the man's irate relatives.Around 21:30hrs on Sunday, police revealed that motor car PZZ 6595, which was being driven by Dowden, was proceeding east into the KK Service Station compound located at Mahaica, East Coast Demerara. The car, according to police, collided with Anthony Dudram, a 29-year old pedestrian of Lancaster, Mahaica, East

Coast Demerara causing him to fall to the ground before it ran over him.

As a result, Dudram received injuries about his body. He was then picked up by his brother and transported to the Mahaicony Cottage Hospital, where he was seen and examined by a doctor. Dudram was later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where it was determined that he suffered a dislocated pelvic bone.

According to police, sometime after the accident, Dudram's relatives caught up with Dowden and assaulted him. As a result, he too was admitted to the GPHC suffering from lacerations about his body. Police enquiries are currently in progress.

Wednesday September 29, 2021

Kaieteur News

PAGE 21

In observance of World Heart Day…

Dr. Balwant Singh Hospital reflects on role in pioneering complex heart surgeries

W

orld Heart Day 2021 is being observed today under the theme 'Use Heart to Connect'. This year's observance is about individuals connecting with their hearts, ensuring that it is b e i n g c a r e d f o r, a n d leveraging the power of technology to link every heart, everywhere.

It should be noted that World Heart Day promotes a healthy lifestyle and dietary habits with a major goal being to increase public knowledge about the relevance of healthy eating and physical activity in lowering the risk of heart disease. Medical studies have confirmed that altering lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart-related disorders by 50%.

This is the view of Professor Dr. Prashant Vaijaynath, Cardiac Surgeon from India, who has recently conducted at least six complex heart surgeries in Guyana with a team of surgeons at the Balwant Singh Hopital. Some of those include a pediatric Cardiac Surgery and a Mitral Valve Replacement.

statistics shows that in 2016, 34% of all deaths in Guyana were related to Cardiovascular Diseases, making it the leading cause of death in the country at that time.

Today, updated statistics contribute to worldwide numbers, compiled by the CDC, recording a heart disease related death every

Dr. Prashant Vaijaynath, Cardiac Surgeon

In a recent release featuring Dr. Vaijaynath, he noted that the current COVID-19 health crisis has brought to light the critical need to create new and innovative ways to bring heart health awareness to more individuals, especially those with limited access to resources and medical care.

World Heart Day 2021, mandates the power of digital health to promote worldwide awareness, prevention, and

m a n a g e m e n t o f Cardiovascular Diseases.

Taking a closer look at the Guyana situation, heart health is not widely discussed and many persons suffer silently.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has listed Ischemic Heart Disease and Hypertensive Heart Disease among the top leading causes of death in Guyana. World Health Organisation

36 seconds. With this information, Dr. Vaijaynath sought to dispel myths about heart health. “A 45-minute brisk walk or aerobic exercise is beneficial to your heart health. However, weightlifting and gym workouts aren't always beneficial to your cardiovascular health. It's also a myth that women are

less susceptible to Cardiovascular Disease….

Cardiovascular Disease is six times more common in women than breast cancer."

Dr. Vaijaynath noted. It is here that he emphasized the need for a cardiac check to be a priority when medical check-ups are being conducted. He believes that (Continued on page 22 )

PAGE 22

Kaieteur News

Wednesday September 29, 2021

...Guyana’s future is with agriculture, food

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From page 15 will be examined and tested to see which can be viable to replicate the project and further diversify the sugar company.

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ous support.

Mr. Fernandes related that in his years in the private sector, he has never experienced such consistent government support in a project.

“It’s for the first time in the private sector, I found that we have actually had the government actually initiate something that we are part of in terms of agriculture; where they are actually pushing us along the road of developing this, and we hope not only to provide for the local market,

but in the very near future, our sister CARICOM territories; which I don’t think is too difficult for us to do.”

He further explained that the group would not have thought of the idea, especially for the poultry sector, if it wasn’t for the push from President Ali. Mr. Fernandes also explained that the results so far from the trial have the group “quite excited”.

“We are not very far away from reaping, we could probably start reaping this in about

three weeks, and then we will know exactly what the productivity looks like. We already know what the costs are up to this point, so it is interesting, and I think that with the push the Government has given us, we will go on to the next stage of doing 2500 acres and then beyond that, it will be a level of acceleration that will probably be interesting to see.” Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha also accompanied President Ali on the visit.

...GPL, GWI to collaborate on improving From page 12 responsibility for the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) and Minister Rodrigues, for the water sector.

While most of GWI's pump stations are equipped with generators to ensure such has incidences do not

occur, the minister explained that the approach is not feasible at every station. In the meantime, Minister Rodrigues asked residents to be patient with the entity and government to rectify the situation. Communities such as Fryish, Port Mourant, Babu

John among others are also affected.

Minister Rodrigues has informed residents that the region will soon benefit from a third water treatment plant for the Corentyne Coast to provide 100 per cent coverage of treated water.

...Dr. Balwant Singh Hospital reflects on role in From page 21 the more people keep abreast with their heart health, the better chance they have of preventing a disease or heart complication due to poor health.

Even with the COVID-19 pandemic, any form of heart complication counts as comorbidity to persons who would have contracted the virus with high chances of landing in the Intensive Care Unit and even resulting in death, the virus places tremendous pressure on the heart, and an unhealthy heart does not have a good

chance. This is not limited to persons over the age of 50.

Anyone and everyone can be affected.

Dr. Balwant Singh Jr, Chairman of Dr. Balwant Singh's Hospital, had mentioned that “Another fallacy is that, young people are immune to heart disease. It's no longer true that cardiovascular problems affect just people in their 50s and 60s. Even people in their 30s are experiencing these issues these days. Indeed, they are prone to sudden heart attacks that can be fatal due to lifestyle behaviours such as, junk

food, alcohol consumption, smoking, and stress.”

To this end, a few heart healthy tips were recommended, and they include a healthy and balanced diet, staying hydrated, limited sugar consumption and exercise. For those recovering from COVID-19 and have been diagnosed with heart complications, Professor, Dr. Vaijaynath, further recommended a minimum eight hours sleep, stress management, keeping up with prescribed medication and doctor's advice and most importantly, eat healthy.

...Coalition Chief PR succumbs to COVID-19 From page 17 as a result of the SARS-CoV2 virus.

Meanwhile, Kaieteur News understands that Khan's wife, Attorney-atLaw, Tamara Khan, is also

among 31 persons receiving critical care at the COVID-19 ICU. This newspaper also confirmed that popular television station owner and host, Chandra Narine

Sharma, 73, is also battling the deadly virus. His son, Mahendra Sharma, confirmed last evening, that he is also a patient at the COVID-19 Hospital at Liliendaal.

Kaieteur News

Wednesday September 29, 2021

PAGE 23

Lone company bids to supply GRA with firearms

Q

ueensway Security Services was the only company that submitted a bid to supply the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) with firearms during the opening of tenders yesterday at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB).

During the opening of tenders, bids were also opened for a National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) contract to transport, offload and stockpile 3000 tonnes of boulders.

Below are the companies and their bids:

Clearing of Alignment for the Timehri Sand Hill Road Link, Region Four.

Guyana Revenue Authority Supply and Delivery of Firearm.

Ministry of Amerindian Affairs Consultancy Services for grievance redress training for Ministry of Amerindian Affairs.

Ministry of Agriculture – National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) Transport, offload and stockpile 3000 tons of boulders.

Ministry of Agriculture- Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc (GUYSUCO) Rehabilitation of re-milling and milling roofs and structures- Rose Hall Factory

Ministry of Public Works Clearing of alignment for the Parika to Goshen Road project, Region Three.

...Pres. Ali still to appoint Teaching Service Commission From page 16 eligible teachers will again have to wait to be duly promoted. Lyte had previously stated that without the TSC in place, the GTU is worried that School Boards will be allowed to resume responsibility for appointments.

However, according to him, the Union does not feel comfortable with School Boards doing appointments, as that process

is often fraught with a lot of discrepancies.

He said it could very well force the Union to seek the intervention of the court.

Moreover, Lyte said there is a shortage of teachers and due to this factor, the teachers that are currently in the school system will have to carry larger classes. “It is a grave concern and we would like to see it addressed,” Lyte expressed.

Provision of site security services for Ministry of Public Works for 2021 to 2022, Lot 1-3.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 24

Wednesday September 29, 2021

Another fully vaccinated person among six latest COVID-19 fatalities The Ministry of Health announced yesterday that six more persons who tested positive for the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) disease have died. As a result of this, Guyana's COVID-19 death toll has moved to 778.

The Ministry reported that the latest fatalities are that of five unvaccinated persons and a fully vaccinated person.

The fatalities are that of three women, a 60year-old from Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara), an 81year-old from Region Four (DemeraraMahaica) and a 40-yearold from Region Five (Mahaica- Berbice) and that of three men, a 74year-old from Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), a 43-year-old from Region Four and a 49-year-old from Region

Five.

According to the Ministry, all six persons died over a three-day period (September 26 to 28) while receiving treatment at a medical facility.

Meanwhile, via its daily COVID-19 dashboard, the Ministry within the last 24hour period recorded 123 new infections, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 31,359. Out of the amount of confirmed cases, 16,444 persons are women while 14,915 are men.

Presently there are 31 patients admitted into the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 137 persons in institutional isolation, 3,774 in home isolation, and 10 in institutional quarantine. To date, a total of 26,639 persons who tested positive for the virus have recovered.

Wednesday September 29, 2021

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday September 29, 2021

Wednesday September 29, 2021

Delhi’s IPL playoff berth delayed by loss to Kolkata SHARJAH, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Delhi Capitals was delayed from claiming a playoff berth in the Indian Premier League after losing to Kolkata Knight Riders by three wickets yesterday.

Delhi could have advanced with a win and remained second overall.

Kolkata was fourth after a third win in its last four games. Both teams have three games remaining.

Later, Mumbai Indians also joined the race for the playoffs with a six-wicket victory over Punjab Kings.

Mumbai has 10 points after 11 games but is just behind Kolkata on net run-rate.

Kolkata skipper Eoin Morgan read the slow pitch well after winning the toss and Delhi was restricted to 127-9.

Spinners Sunil Narine (2-18)

and Venkatesh Iyer (2-29) led the attack.

Kolkata won by reaching 130-7 in 18.2 overs. Nitish Rana made an unbeaten 37 off 27 balls, but it was the lower order which starred, especially Sunil Narine, who took 21 runs from one Kagiso Rabada over.

“Winning the toss and fielding is not an easy thing to do, (but) the guys were more calculated today and it came off,” Morgan said. “Full credit has to go to our coach Brendon McCullum. It’s his ethos, his mindset, and the boys have bought into that.”

Young Delhi fast bowler Avesh Khan continued a dream IPL debut by taking 313 and raising his wickets tally to 18.

Ravichandran Ashwin got the key wicket of Morgan without scoring, and when

Nitish Rana punches the air after hitting the winning runs. (BCCI) Dinesh Karthik played onto Khan in the 15th over, Kolkata slipped to 96-5.

But Narine smashed two

Wednesday September 29, 2021 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Some rather depressing information could come to you today from far away, Aries. This is less likely to be about your immediate situation or circle of friends than it is about something social or political in nature.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) You've been working hard to improve your financial situation, Taurus. You might be on the verge of attaining what you want, but temporary obstacles could get in your way.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) A partner might be feeling rather down and need you to cheer him or her up.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) Today you might enjoy planning to have some visitors stay with you for a while.

Worry about developments on the job might have you feeling a bit stressed and under the weather.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) A friend could be depressed and need your advice, Leo. Some long-held, cherished goals that you've been working toward could be temporarily blocked, causing you to wonder if they will ever come to fruition.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Some professional colleagues might be coming to visit, Virgo, and you may not be looking forward to it. You could be worried.

How will it go?

PAGE 27

Kaieteur News

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You've been working hard to improve your financial situation. You might be on the verge of attaining what you want, but temporary obstacles could get in your way.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You might reflect on recent successes in business and money and suddenly feel a strong sense of gloom, wondering if it's going to continue. Don't panic, Scorpio.

It isn't a vision of the future SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Work that could advance you professionally could take you away from loved ones, Sagittarius, and cause some emotional tension.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) A task, perhaps job related or perhaps one of your own, might prove weightier than you expected. You're working too hard and you could be feeling tired and dejected.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Someone, perhaps a person involved with a group you're in, may ask you to help in some way today. You probably don't want to do it, Aquarius, possibly because you have plans. Don't be afraid to say no.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Career developments could look promising now, Pisces, and you might be in a hurry to finish whatever needs to be done. But responsibilities to home and family might interfere.

sixes and a four against Rabada in the next over and ripped the game from Delhi’s grasp.

Tournament top runscorer Shikhar Dhawan hit five crisp boundaries among 24 runs for Delhi before falling to Lockie Ferguson at point in the batting powerplay.

Steven Smith returned to the side but labored for 34 deliveries in scoring 39 before he was clean bowled by Ferguson.

Rishabh Pant also struggled to accelerate, hitting just three boundaries in his 36-ball 39 as Narine and Iyer strangled Delhi with their spin.

At Dubai, the experience of West Indies Kieron Pollard (15) and Hardik Pandya rescued Mumbai with a 45run partnership off 23 balls as the team reached 137-4 with an over to spare.

Hardik’s dropped catch on 7 cost Punjab the game, as he remained unbeaten on 40 off 30 balls and finished the game with a six over long-on off Muhammed Shami.

Leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi’s (2-25) twin strike in the batting powerplay and later top-scorer Saurabh Tiwari’s (45) wicket in the 16th over gave Punjab a sniff before Hardik and Pollard sealed the game for Mumbai.

Earlier, after being put in to bat, Punjab struggled to 135-6 against the likes of Jasprit Bumrah (2-24) and Pollard, who picked up the key wickets of Chris Gayle and captain Lokesh Rahul in his only over as Punjab limped to 48-4 in the eighth over. South African Aiden Markram (42) and Deepak Hooda (28) featured in a 61run stand, but the total always looked within sight of the defending champions.

Scores: Kolkata Knight Riders 130 for 7 (Rana 36*, Gill 30, Avesh 3-13) beat Delhi Capitals 127 for 9 (Pant 39, Smith 39, Ferguson 2-10, Narine 2-18, V Iyer 2-29) by three wickets.

...GFF’s changing & washroom From page 31 and is very appropriate for the level of usage that the building is anticipated to have when completed.

“All in all, it is a good and positive indication that we are going in the right direction.

We’re investing ten million dollars in putting this facility together, so we expect to get value from this investment so I am very pleased with what I’ve seen. I want to commend our Project Engineer Mr. Samuel Holder and the Contractor, Team Wanted Construction for doing so far, a splendid job.”

Forde further noted that it is the plan of the GFF to build such facilities at each venue that would be used by its Regional Member Associations for their respective programmes in Bartica, Berbice, East Demerara, East Bank, Georgetown, West Demerara, Upper Demerara, Essequibo and Rupununi.

The other venues that would be constructed would benefit from the experiences garnered from this ongoing project and the other one on Berbice that is also under construction at the moment.

“We’ve seen a few things that we can tweak a bit and make it a little bit friendlier for the association and the players, male and female that would be using it. While this facility is being constructed to accommodate our female players, male players also would be able to use it whenever there are male games be-

ing played here.”

With regards to maintenance of the structure, Forde alluded to the fact that in the initial design it was agreed that it would be one that requires the least possible maintenance.

“I referenced the kind of fixtures we’re going to be using on the building so there is a very likelihood that replacing fixtures or having fixtures that are not functioning is going to be reduced, dramatically. But outside of that, we will have a caretaker that will be assigned to the Association. At some point, the care and upkeep of this facility and all the other additional investment that will go into this ground would be transferred to the East Coast Football Association because they will inherit this. The GFF is making the capital investment to create a space where they can run all of their youth development programmes, I’m thinking that the Academy Training Centre will also come out of this venue; I’m thinking that their leagues will be here because we have plans to put in lighting, seating and to do some work on the surface.”

Clear guidelines would be forthcoming from the GFF to the Association with regards to what is expected from them in managing the facility.

“So they are plans in place to ensure that the facility would be secured and also properly maintained, overtime.”

Kaieteur News

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Wednesday September 29, 2021

Fmr. WICB director of communications Imran Khan dies from Covid-19 complications

Imran Khan

SportsMax - Former Cricket West Indies head of corporate communications and Director of Communications for Guyana’s chief opposition party, Imran Khan, has died after a brief battle brought about by Covid-19 complications.

Khan who worked for several years with regional cricket’s governing body,

formerly known as the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB), had spent the last 8 days in the intensive care unit before going into respiratory failure yesterday.

At the time of his death, Khan, who was 43, worked for the Alliance For Change (AFC) as head of their communications unit.

During the coalition APNU+AFC’s time in office from 2015 to 2020, he also

sat on several State Boards including that of the National Communications Network (NCN).

On Sunday Khan had expressed thanks for the outpouring of support he had received and vowed to keep fighting.

“Thank you for all your love, prayers, messages of encouragement, and support.

I am overwhelmed beyond explanation and I am in

excellent spirits…Please be assured that I am fighting and there is no giving up.

One Love,” he wrote.

According to numerous reports, the communications expert was not vaccinated and did not have any underlying disease. Khan’s wife, Tammy, an attorney, later also tested positive for the disease and was admitted in the ICU but was discharged on Monday.

CWI sends condolences on the passing of former colleague Imran Khan

S

T. J O H N ’ S , Antigua – Cricket West Indies (CWI) yesterday expressed its sincerest condolences to the wife and family of former CWI Manager of Marketing and Communications, Imran Khan, who passed away yesterday morning in his native Guyana. He first joined the then West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) as Media Officer for the West Indies Men’s Team, and performed the role with distinction for five years. He left to pursue other interests but rejoined the organization in 2012 in a management role.

CWI President Ricky Skerritt paid tribute to Khan, “Imran Khan is a former Senior Management Employee at Cricket West Indies. He loved cricket and he loved working with the Caribbean cricket media, who all highly regarded him and his work. I had the opportunity to work with Imran while I served as West Indies Team Manager, several years ago. I found Imran to be a skillful professional and an effective servant of West Indies cricket. He continued to be an ardent team supporter even after he left CWI to return home to his native

Guyana. I’ve had the privilege of being in contact with him since; his advice and wisdom were always welcomed. On behalf of everyone at CWI, I wish to send our sincere condolences to his wife and family. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

On his return to Guyana, Khan worked as the Director of the Department of Public Information. At the time of his passing he worked in the communications unit of the country’s opposition party.

CWI extends its prayers and thoughts to his wife Tamara as she makes a full recovery.

Dropped Warner fuels IPL exit talk after watching from hotel AFP - Australia opener David Warner has hinted that he could miss the rest of Sunrisers Hyderabad’s Indian Premier League matches after being dropped for the second time this season.

Warner watched from his Dubai hotel room as Hyderabad thrashed Rajasthan Royals by seven w i c k e t s o n M o n d a y.

E n g l a n d ’s J a s o n R o y stepped into his place and hit an impressive 42-ball 60.

TV pundits speculated that Warner’s season in the Kane Williamson-led side could be over and Warner, 34, fuelled the talk with his reply to a fan who urged him on Instagram to rest before returning.

“Unfortunately won’t be again, but please keep supporting,” Warner replied.

Hyderabad coach Trevor

Bayliss played down the exit talk at the post-match press conference.

“We can’t make the final so we have made a decision that we want the young players to experience not just the matches but time at the ground, around the set-up, and for this match we made the decision,” Bayliss said.

“He was not the only experienced player we left back at the hotel.” Kedar Jadhav and Shahbaz Nadeem also missed the game.

“We have got to sit down in a day or two and pick a team and pick a squad of 18.

That’s just the way it is. Dave is obviously watching the game back in the hotel and giving the guys support.”

The Australian lefthander, who made nought and two when his side lost the first two games of the r e s u m e d Tw e n t y 2 0

tournament in the United Arab Emirates, lost the captaincy in the first half of the IPL and was also dropped then.

Bayliss said the team are yet to discuss Warner’s future as the auction for the 2022 season will not be held until December.

“Those decisions will be made further down the line,” the coach said.

“He has been a great contributor to Hyderabad for a number of years now. He is very well respected with the amount of runs he has scored. I am sure he has got a lot more runs in him yet in the IPL.” Warner led Hyderabad to their only IPL title in 2016 and has amassed more than 4,000 runs for the team now bottom of the eight-team table and needing a miracle to make the play-offs.

Wednesday September 29, 2021

Kaieteur News

PAGE 29

The lawnmower being serviced at Ogle CC.

Ogle CC thank GENEQUIP for continued support

T

he Ogle Community Centre Cricket Club has expressed gratitude to GENEQUIP for their continued support.

The company has been providing expertise to assist the club in maintaining the

ground and only recently they provided its technical expertise to repair and service the Centre’s D130 John Deere lawnmower which is being used to cut the ground.

The members would like to thank the company and look forward to their support.

PAGE 30

Kaieteur News

Wednesday September 29, 2021

GCB extends condolence on the passing of Imran Khan

T

he Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) has expressed sadness at the passing of Mr. Imran Khan reportedly from Covid-19, a release from the board informed.

Imran, a media professional, had previously served as the Media Liaison for Cable and Wireless from 2002 to 2004, the Media Manager of West Indies Cricket Board Inc. (WICB) from 2004 to 2007 and Head of Marketing and Communications for Stanford T20 Cricket from

2007 to 2009. Additionally, he served as the Corporate Communications Officer of WICB Inc. from 2010 to 2015. From all reports, Imran brought high levels of commitment and expertise in the discharge of his duties in these positions and in so doing earned the respect and admiration of both his employers and colleagues.

The GCB takes the opportunity to once again urge all eligible persons to be fully vaccinated, as advised by the medical experts, in order to mitigate this deadly pandemic.

Rio AMBC election to be chaired by Ninvalle Steve Ninvalle

A

ccording to a r e l e a s e , President of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) and current government Director of Sports in the National Sports Commission (NSC) of the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports (MCYS), Steve Ninvalle, has been appointed the chairman of the Americas Boxing Confederation (AMBC) elections set to be held tomorrow in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Ninvalle will chair the meeting virtually and will be responsible for what is termed the most important part of the AMBC Congress.

AMBC had recently written to the World governing body, AIBA, to have one of the m o s t r e s p e c t e d administrators appointed to chair the event.

AIBA responded in the affirmative.

In an invited comment, Ninvalle said that he welcomed the fact that AMBC and AIBA could

have placed so much confidence in him, promising to operate in a fair and impartial manner.

In chairing the elections, Ninvalle, a vice president of AMBC, has become the first from CARICOM to do so.

The local boxing boss has chalked up several first since being elected the president of the GBA including the Anglophone Caribbean’s first Executive Committee Member of AIBA, first AIBA Youth Commission Chairman and first member of the AIBA Executive Bureau.

Ve n e z u e l a n L u i s a Benitez, the lone woman in the quartet, Brazilian Fabiano Borges, Puerto Rican Jose Laureano and American Tyson Lee are the others on the executive.

Tomorrow’s Congress will see one person taking over from Argentine Osvaldo Bisbal who has resigned as the 43- member AMBC president.

Kaieteur News

Wednesday September 29, 2021

PAGE 31

Hardik, Pollard, Tiwary swing tight contest Mumbai’s way

Kieron Pollard and Hardik Pandya celebrate after the win, Mumbai Indians vs Punjab Kings, IPL 2021, Abu Dhabi, September 28, 2021© BCCI

ESPNcricinfo - Not for the first time this season, Punjab Kings paid the price for losing their nerve at the death. After failing to score any boundaries in the final four overs to stutter to 135 for 6, their own death bowlers leaked a combination of four fours and three sixes to the powerhitting pair of Hardik Pandya and Kieron Pollard from the 17th to 19th, rending the last over unnecessary as a 15-minute sequence turned a tense chase into an easy six-wicket win for Mumbai Indians.

Hardik made Kings pay for giving him an extra life on 7 in the 14th over when Harpreet Brar spilled a relatively straightforward chance above his head trying to intercept a cut at backward point off Arshdeep Singh.

CWI announces innovative new ticketing service with SecuTix ST JOHN’S, Antigua – Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced a new partnership with SecuTix, a leading international ticketing service platform, to launch an online service that allows fans to buy tickets for any West Indies home fixture in 2022 and beyond from any device or location. The partnership will use SecuTix leading ticketing cloud platform resulting in a new online, fan-friendly ticket selection and purchasing experience.

The new ticket service, available soon through CWI’s windiescricket.com website, will offer advance ticketing and hospitality bookings for every West Indies home fixture, delivering tickets direct to fans’ mobile devices for presentation on mobile screens for entry into to the stadium.

Alternatively fans can print out their ticket at home to bring to the game. Fans will benefit by having the freedom to buy their tickets in advance, selecting a seat of their choice and without having to queue. The partnership will allow fans to receive incentives, promotions, discounts and merchandise offers linked to their ticket purchase based

on their profile and history of attendances.

Tickets for West Indies international fixtures from January to March will be sold online first, including the much-anticipated England T20I and Test tour of the Caribbean with the full tour itinerary being announced in the coming weeks. CWI will benefit from access to leading software and block chain technology to drive increased ticketing revenues, a reduction in operating costs and to prevent ticket fraud.

Dominic Warne, CWI’s Commercial Director said: “Sports fans expect a simple, fast, reliable ticket buying experience at any time of day, in any location and from any device. CWI’s new service delivers this for Caribbean fans and international visitors alike, enabling them to book their preferred seats in advance for any fixture, in just a few clicks and without the need to queue. The SecuTix platform delivers this fanfriendly experience from purchase to entering the stadium, whilst also providing improved ticketing data to allow us to make smarter decisions on ticketing prices and

promotions. We believe this improves accessibility for fans to any West Indies game and will help increase attendances to deliver that w o r l d - r e n o w n e d We s t Indies carnival cricket atmosphere.”

The SecuTix’ software platform is internationally recognized for its ability to handle online ticket sales and seat selection for large venues and events spaces including sports clubs, stadiums, music concerts and festivals, museums, and more.

“We are delighted to enter into a relationship with Cricket West Indies” said SecuTix Americas CEO Eric Rozenberg. “Between our extensive experience with sports—including cricket and soccer—as well as our innovative technologies and unparalleled customer service, SecuTix is well positioned to serve the specific needs of Cricket West Indies.”

Fans can sign up to be the first to hear about future fixtures, receive special ticket offers and exclusive content by signing up for the West Indies ‘WI Insider” fan e-newsletter at https://www.windiescricket .com/updates/ .

With momentum swinging ever so slightly to Kings after the fall of Saurabh Tiwary in the 16th for 45 to leave Indians needing 40 off the last four overs, Hardik stole it back by flicking Mohammed Shami for four and six over the leg side in the 17th. Pollard that drove a pair of misfired yorkers from Arshdeep over the off side for four and six in the 18th before a trio of boundaries from Hardik off Shami clinched the match one over later as the winning runs were spilled once again over the rope at long-on by Deepak Hooda.

Collapse of the Kings After a relatively decent start moving to 36 for 0 in the sixth over having been sent in to bat first, Kings innings went haywire in a 15-ball sequence that saw them lose four wickets for 12 runs.

Mandeep Singh was the first to go, tied down by Krunal Pandya’s left-arm spin in the powerplay and pressured into trying a sweep to release the pressure only to be pinned lbw for 15. It was Krunal’s 50th wicket in the IPL, making him just the eighth player in the tournament’s history to pull off the 50-wicket, 1000 run career double.

More achievements were unlocked in the seventh over when Pollard had Chris Gayle driving to long-on for 1 followed by KL Rahul mistiming a pull to short fine leg for 21 just two balls later.

It was Pollard’s only over of the night but it was all he needed to move up to 300

career wickets in T20 cricket. The mini collapse concluded in the eighth when Nicholas Pooran clumsily played around a full toss from Jasprit Bumrah and was given out lbw for 2, a decision that was upheld on DRS. At 48 for 4, Kings were brought back to respectability thanks to a 61run stand between Aiden Markram and Hooda, but all their hard work was undone

by Mumbai death bowling thanks to a pair of usual suspects.

Bumrah and Coulter-Nile stifle Kings further Markram started off the 16th with a four clipped off Rahul Chahar. Despite having six wickets in hand and 29 balls remaining, that would prove to be the last boundary of the Kings innings. Markram was bowled missing a sweep next ball to Chahar before the legspinner handed over the death bowling reins to Bumrah and Nathan CoulterNile, who were relentless in the final four overs.

Bumrah had Hooda chipping to Pollard at longoff in the 19th for the sixth and final wicket to fall in the innings, though he had another put down on his next delivery on a near collision between himself and Suryakumar Yadav running in from deep midwicket. But he only managed to concede 11 runs off his last two overs.

Coulter-Nile was practically just as stingy, giving up 12 off his final 12 balls as Kings ran out of gunpowder once the set pair of Markram and

Hooda departed.

Kings stumble again near the finish line Ravi Bishnoi struck a pair of blows in the fourth over, getting Rohit Sharma to slap a catch to mid-on for 8 before bowling Suryakumar with a googly first ball.

Tiwary nearly rounded off a would-be hat-trick sequence but his leading edge fell just short of cover. Still at 16 for 2, Mumbai progressed in first gear for the first half of the chase as Quinton de Kock’s pained innings finally came to an end in the 10th over for 27 off 29 balls when he dragged Shami onto his stumps.

Needing 74 off the last 10, Kings kept Mumbai under pressure but were let down by their fielding in the end. Hardik was dropped twice on the way to his unbeaten 40 off 30 balls, the first one on 7 proving especially costly. Whereas Bumrah and Coulter-Nile showcased their surgical precision at the death, Shami and Arshdeep could not get their lengths right. Pollard’s brief punishment of Arshdeep in the 18th swung momentum fully to Mumbai and cemented his Player of the Match award ahead of both Hardik and Tiwary when combined with his double-wicket over in the first half of play which claimed Gayle and Rahul.

Scores: Mumbai Indians 137 for 4 (Tiwary 45, Hardik 40*, Bishnoi 225) beat Punjab Kings 135 for 6 (Markram 42, Bumrah 2-24) by six wickets.

Jasprit Bumrah had Nicholas Pooran out lbw. (BCCI)

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Wednesday September 29, 2021

Messi scores superb first PSG goal in win over Man City BBC Sport - Lionel Messi scored his first Paris St-Germain goal in stunning fashion as they beat Manchester City in an enthralling Champions League group game.

Messi, making his fourth appearance for PSG since leaving Barcelona, ran from the halfway line before playing a one-two with Kylian Mbappe and leaving Ederson rooted to the spot with a lovely 20-yard shot.

The roar from the Parc des Princes crowd was deafening as the Argentine, on his return from injury, added one PSG goal to the 672 he managed for Barca.

Idrissa Gueye had given last season’s French runnersup an early lead with an excellent drive into the top corner.

City had plenty of chances to score in between

those goals with Raheem Sterling’s header hitting the bar and Bernardo Silva striking the woodwork from the rebound with an empty net in front of him.

They also had seven shots on target but could not beat Champions League debutant Gianluigi Donnarumma in PSG’s goal.

The second age of Messi begins The first three games of Messi’s spell at PSG - which has been interrupted by injury and fitness issues - had failed to set the world alight.

No goals and no assists.

But this was the night that all changed as he glided across the Parisian turf, gave the ball to Mbappe and got it back with a backheel before bamboozling Ederson with his shot.

That was his seventh goal in five Champions

League games against teams managed by Pep Guardiola his former Barcelona boss and his seventh goal against City.

The build-up to this match had all been about whether he would return form a knee injury which had kept him out for a couple of games. There was a huge cheer from the fans before the game as his name was read out in the starting XI. He was involved earlier in the move for the opening goal too, finding Mbappe outside the box.

Mbappe’s pass was airkicked by Neymar, with Gueye then scoring a beauty.

Messi’s only shot was the goal - but on a night when City made PSG work hard, the veteran did his fair share too.

Almost a third of his touches were in his own half,

including when he tackled Riyad Mahrez just outside the box.

Even at the end, he performed the draught excluder role in the wall for a Kevin de Bruyne free-kick a position almost invented to defend his own free-kicks.

PSG - who have won all their Ligue 1 games to date are a different team than the one who lost both legs to City in last year’s semi-final.

Gueye and Marco Verratti, back from four games out injured, were excellent in central midfield - and the team defended well too to keep City out.

Donnarumma, in goal, made seven saves as well as four claims or punches.

Ederson in the other goal only made one save.

This ended a run of four consecutive Champions League matches without a

win - including both City games last season.

Frustrating night for Man City This was City’s first Champions League group defeat since September 2018, when they lost 2-1 to Lyon, a run of 18 games unbeaten.

They came into the game on a high after beating European champions and Premier League title rivals Chelsea 1-0 on Saturday.

And they had enough chances at the Parc des Princes to win about three games - most notably when Sterling and Bernardo hit the bar in the space of five seconds. Bernardo’s chance, in particular, was a sitter with an open goal about four yards out.

G u a r d i o l a ’s s i d e frequently threatened to get in behind PSG’s backline

with reverse passes but it never paid off.

Mahrez was denied by Donnarumma three times, with De Bruyne forcing the Italian into two saves - and Joao Cancelo and Ruben Dias also having shots on target.

De Bruyne was lucky to even be on the pitch as he avoided a red card for standing on Gueye’s leg in a challenge.

City keeper Ederson only touched the ball 13 times, making one save.

Donnarumma was involved 44 times in the game.

This result in itself is not ruinous for City, with teams able to afford losing a Champions League game so long as they win most of their others. But will it dent their morale? We should find out on Sunday as they go to Anfield to face Liverpool.

Wednesday September 29, 2021

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GFF’s changing & washroom facility at Ann’s Grove Community Ground taking shape With the aim of converting the Ann’s Grove Community Ground into a female friendly facility, the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) under the FIFA Covid Grant for Female Football Development embarked on the construction of a Changing Room and Wash Room Facility.

That project commenced last year and on a recent visit to get a first-hand look see of how works are progressing, Federation President Wayne Forde said that he is pleased with the progress despite challenges that would have been faced as a result of the ongoing covid-19 pandemic.

Works would have been halted in the past due to pandemic regulations whilst the rainy weather would have also halted the progress of construction at some point. However, on Sunday last, Forde along with Executive Member Dion Inniss visited Ann’s Grove to observe how works are

coming along.

Two dressing rooms along with bath and washrooms are being built as well as a room for Referees along with the same amenities as the two dressing rooms.

In commenting on progress, Forde alluded to the fact that one of the main challenges over the years in growing the female game has been the lack of facilities. He noted that parent’s have been very hesitant to send their girls out knowing that the basic facilities to ensure safety and comfort have been lacking.

The Ann’s Grove facility is designed to ensure that the above concerns are a thing of the past, Forde posited.

“With regards to the pace of the project there was quite a bit of disruption because of covid-19 and then the prolonged rainy season we had but I am happy to see the contractor is back on pace and his project is that in

The GFF President along with the Engineer and Contractor inspecting the Ann’s Grove Changing Room and Wash Room Facility funded under the FIFA Covid Grant for Female Football Development.

another six to eight weeks we should have the building completed.”

With an eye on ensuring that the quality of the work is second to none, Forde also shared that they are discussing a few minor modifications to the structure which is not unusual when it comes to construction.

“I am very pleased, not just with the pace of the work since it has restarted but the overall quality that I’m seeing. As you know we place tremendous emphasis on the quality of all the projects being under taken by the GFF, so I’ve made that point clear to the contractor on how important it is to deliver a job that has a high level of finish.”

With regards to the fixtures that would be fitted in the building, Forde shared that it would be a high quality as it is a German brand that is very durable (Continued on page 25)