Guyana Times -- Friday, December 31, 2021

GMSA welcomes passage P19 of Local Content, NRF legislation Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 4876

THE BEACON OF TRUTH FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

APNU/AFC Opposition’s “terrorist tactic” cannot be taken lightly – Teixeira ...says there must be consequences See story on page 3

"Disruptive" APNU/AFC MPs will be punished for "attack on Mace" – Speaker

Private Sector bodies condemn Opposition’s Page 19 “vulgarity”, “hooliganism” in National Assembly

Parliament staff files complaint to ERC against APNU/AFC MP’s racial Page slurs 13

– recounts being "racially abused", “kicked in ribs” in bid to protect Mace

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Pedal cyclist crushed by truck on EBD corridor P18

– to face attempted murder charge in January

… says NRF Bill was legally passed

GOGEC President Manniram Prashad

$100 VAT INCLUDED

Man gets 2 years for unlawful possession of gun, ammo P15

See story on page 7

GCCI President Timothy Tucker

PRICE

GGDMA President Andron Alphonso

Essequibo fish vendor perishes after fire guts home Page 12

157 new COVID infections, 1 death detected P18 in 24h Duo busted with counterfeit US notes P11

NY Democracy group supports Guyana’s Local Content & NRF legislation P21

Police sought legal advice in 3297 P15 cases in 2021

2

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Friday, December 31 – 01:30h-03:00h, and Saturday, January 1 – 02:30h-04:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

APNU/AFC Opposition’s “terrorist tactic” cannot be taken lightly – Teixeira …says there must be consequences

Friday, December 31 – 14:20h-15:50h and Saturday, January 1 – 15:10h-16:40h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily

WEATHER TODAY

Cloudy conditions are expected throughout the day interrupted by light showers in the late morning to afternoon hours. Sunshine is expected in the late afternoon followed by cloudy skies in the evening.

Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to East North-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.92 metres.

High Tide: 14:34h reaching a maximum height of 2.68 metres.

Low Tide: 08:05h and 20:37h reaching minimum heights of 0.71 metre and 0.52 metre.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2021

LOTTERY NUMBERS H

03 10 15

17 18 27

FREE TICKET

13 Bonus Ball

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2021

DAILY MILLIONS

01 05 08 15 20 LUCKY 3

3

6

6

1

Afternoon Draw

2

7

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

02 04 08 10 12 13 20 SUPER

PAY DAY

PAY DAY

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2021

01 05 07 09 11 13

10 11 16 19 21

2

6 Afternoon Draw

2X Afternoon Draw

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2X Evening Draw

DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Change %

Crude Oil

$79. 32/barrel

Rough Rice

$265.68/ton

-0.07

London Sugar

$501.10/ton

+0.58

Live Spot Gold

+0.11

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1816.20

$1817.20

Low/High Change

$1795.80 +1.70

$1818.10 +0.09%

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Gail Teixeira

T

he Government is calling for consequences for some members of the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Opposition over their “terrorist” actions in the National Assembly during Wednesday’s debate of the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Bill.

At a press conference on Thursday, Governance and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Gail Teixeira expressed concerns over the ‘no-boundary’ posture of the coalition Opposition – something which she said should be of concern to all stakeholders.

Teixeira posited that the chaotic events which unfolded shamefully defiled the sanctity of the National Assembly, which is the country’s highest law-making institution.

“This display that we witnessed must not be taken lightly by anybody whether they like the PPP (People’s Progressive Party) or not, whether they like the Government or not, whether they like the Bills or not. The issue is that the National Assembly – the legislature of the Guyana Parliament – was violated. It was defiled repeatedly with the worst thing happening nearly at the end, and that is, the seizure – attempt to steal the Mace of the Guyana Parliament,” she stated.

The Opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) on Wednesday evening protested the hearing of the NRF Bill, which they wanted to be sent to a parliamentary Special Select Committee for review, by disrupting the session. Coalition MPs stood banging on their desks when the Bill was called up for debate and subsequently gathered in the pit of the Dome of the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), where National Assembly sittings are being held owing to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Bill was eventually passed late in the evening, but not before the Opposition’s protest escalated into a physical confrontation with Parliament staff after one of the coa-

lition MPs snatched the Parliament Mace from in front of the Speaker.

According to Teixeira, no matter where parliamentary sessions are held, the space in the middle between the Government and Opposition sides is sacred ground and a

peace zone. She said no one was allowed to be in that area.

“It’s a safe zone. You’re not supposed to – ever – in Parliament, enter into that once the sitting is on. And they entered into it. But not only did they enter into it, but they came right up to Dr Ashni Singh and surrounded him in a very intimidating and physically violent manner,” the Minister recounted.

In addition to blowing whistles and holding up placards to disrupt the proceedings, the Opposition MPs also compromised the Control Room, disconnect-

disrupted. This is a terrorist tactic,” she insisted.

The Parliamentary Affairs Minister maintained that Wednesday’s events in the National Assembly were not spontaneous but were preplanned, organised and orchestrated with the aim of delaying the passage of the NRF Bill, which she contended was lawfully passed and was now binding and legal.

“I saw MPs jump on a desk to get on top to grab the Mace; this is not acceptable behaviour. In fact, we mustn’t take lightly what happened to the Mace…

But the Mace is the symbol of the authority of the

ing the Internet and loudspeaker system in the ACCC Dome.

“We were totally disabled in the National Assembly.

There was no Internet, the Control Room had been invaded and disconnected and

National Assembly. Any attempt to move it is, therefore, an attempt to undermine and to overthrow the authority of the National Assembly, which is our legislature,” she asserted.

TURN TO PAGE 5

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guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

Desecration of Parliament

G

uyanese have again witnessed a complete descent into lawlessness in Parliament as the Opposition disrupted Wednesday night’s proceedings in its bid to have the Natural Resource Fund Bill sent to a parliamentary select committee, not heard and not passed.

But instead of having its objections raised in an eloquent manner befitting Member of Parliament (MPs) and having its objections put on the record, the Opposition showed this nation that they has no respect for the sanctity of any institution and more so the highest decision-making body of the nation.

Moreover, the act of snatching the Mace from Speaker Manzoor Nadir is despicable to say the least and the MP should be expelled for the desecration of the National Assembly.

History will tell that MP Isahak Basir, who was a member of the National Assembly of Guyana from 1977 to 1991, had his political career ended in 1991 when he was expelled from Parliament by the then Speaker Sase Narain for throwing a glass of water at him and removing the ceremonial mace from its proper place.

Shockingly but not surprisingly, the new leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), Aubrey Norton in the aftermath of the disrespect to Parliament commended the Opposition MPs for their actions. The fact that Norton praised the Opposition MPs for their distasteful behaviour speaks volume to the type of leadership that the PNC has continued to embrace.

If one were to recall, such descent into lawlessness is nothing new for the A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC). In March of this year during the consideration of the estimates in the National Assembly, which was also held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), the Opposition disrupted the Committee of Supply in its bid to deviate from parliamentary norms of bringing a motion to the House on an issue it wanted to be urgently addressed.

As was then and as is now, the disorderly actions taken by the APNU/AFC in the National Assembly were uncalled for, as the Speaker never refused to deal with the allegations made by Opposition MP Tabitha Sarabo-Halley that Government MP, Minister Kwame McCoy had assaulted her. At the time and as per parliamentary norms, the Speaker had requested that a motion be brought to the House. Even more bizarre at the time was that, while APNU/AFC had sought to have its own way on how the Speaker should handle the matter, the Guyana Police Force had already said that it was investigating the allegation.

The travesty that occurred in the National Assembly in March and again on Wednesday evening should never have started if our elected members, in the first instance, behaved as, and had the decorum, befitting an MP. This appalling behaviour, however, is not surprising as, having witnessed what occurred after the March 2, 2020 elections and the subsequent five months, one would have a very good idea of how low the Opposition can descend. As a matter of fact, during the elections period in 2020, the APNU/AFC did not see its action to steal an election as unusual or weird in any way, but, rather, it was acting as though it was its democratic right to derail and discard the will of the Guyanese people. The consideration of the estimates for 2021 had provided yet another opportunity for the APNU/AFC to redeem itself and to prove that it was serious about the betterment of the Guyanese people. Then again on Wednesday, it had the perfect opportunity to demonstrate that it is a serious Opposition that can discuss, oppose, and debate facts in the interest of Guyana in the National Assembly.

Again, it would be good if the APNU/AFC were to prove that it had matured politically by joining with the Government in tackling issues that would help in the development of Guyana, rather than disrupting the National Assembly, having not made any meaningful contribution.

More so, its behaviour demonstrates a failure to make representation for the thousands of Guyanese who had voted for APNU/AFC. As this newspaper had outlined previously, the Government has laid out a detailed plan for the development of Guyana for the next five years. It is quite clear that the Government has a full grasp of the challenges facing communities, and has made the necessary financial allocations to address those challenges. What is now required is that personal political interest be put aside by the Opposition and the national interest take the forefront of its agenda.

The current Administration has always signalled its willingness to meaningfully engage with the parliamentary Opposition to push the national development agenda forward.

Therefore, rather than adopting the current aggressive confrontational approach, the Opposition should serve the people of Guyana by showing respect for Guyanese by meaningfully engaging in the developmental agenda of the Administration.

To address and curb this descent into lawlessness in Guyana’s highest decision-making body, the Speaker of the National Assembly must exert his fullest authority in dealing with the desecration of Parliament.

Guyanese cricketer Romario Shepherd on Thursday met with President Dr Irfaan Ali at State House, Main Street, Georgetown, where they had discussions about Shepherd's future and the Head of State, reiterated his support for the talented cricketer

Respect for the rule of law

Dear Editor, This uncivilized and uncouth behaviour must not be allowed to continue. It is irresponsible and immature of any serious leader to behave as a spoilt brat whenever things do not go his or her way. If the election results are not the outcome you like the solution is NOT to take over the process and decide to illegally and forcefully change the outcome. Similarly, if the vote in Parliament on a Bill you do not approve of does not go your way, the solution is NOT to forcefully take over Parliament and illegally try to change and stop the process.

We are a Nation of Laws with a Legal System that is also comprised of Courts and The Police. Anyone as-

piring to be a leader must act responsibly and ensure that the message being sent to his or her followers is one that does NOT say to them that it is ok to ignore the Laws of Guyana and those who enforce those laws.

Criminal activity will rise and respect for our Officers and the Courts will decline.

It is also imperative that those who seek to be respected as leaders in our Nation clearly denounce usurping the Legal process of our country. If anyone is opposed to the direction in which the country is going, then take the time to articulate why and try to convince others to agree with you. Then when it is time to vote everyone will let his or her opinion be known. If you are of the opinion that

something was done illegally, then use the legal system and have your day in court. As a democracy, the outcome of our elections and the direction of the country will be determined by the majority. This is our process and this is what our Constitution calls for.

No longer must we as a Nation allow others to try to dismantle our civilized existence, and our legal process of addressing differences of opinion. Illegally and forcefully pushing for a particular outcome is not a constructive approach to promote an agenda and build support from independent voters. Instead, the current approach that is being taken is alienating others while also increasing racial tension within the

country.

The Cooperative Republicans of Guyana (CRG) Party calls on the leadership of those involved in the recent uncouth behaviour displayed in Parliament to swiftly denounce what had taken place and to also implement controls to prevent this bad behaviour from reoccurring. Every time these extreme acts occur, it becomes clearer that certain elements within the opposition are too extreme for peaceful coexistence to be achieved. Our National Assembly is no place for those who have no respect for our Constitution and the rule of law.

With concern, Jamil Changlee

Punitive sanctions must follow the attempted stealing of the Mace Dear Editor, For elucidation on the sacrosanctity of the Mace in Guyana’s Parliament, the following may cast some insight on why Annette Ferguson’s attempt to steal the Mace was a criminal act worthy of jail time. The Mace is to the National Assembly what Guyana’s flag is to our country, and the Opposition’s sacrilegious disrespect of what Minister Indar likened to

“the Holy Grail” is tantamount to the dishonour of our national pride when the PNC draped our Golden Arrowhead over the coffin of known criminal Linden (Blackie) London.

Both actions are equally heinous, as they dishonour the symbols of our national identity and pride.

A Mace, once used as a weapon, is currently used for ceremonial purposes – a symbol of au-

thority in Commonwealth Parliaments: A ceremonial Mace was used for the first time on 10th September 1957.

When Guyana became a Republic on 23rd February 1970, the head of the Mace, which depicted British Royal Arms, was replaced with Guyana's Coat of Arms. The stem also includes the representation of a rice plant in full bearing and a sugar cane in blossom, represent-

ing two of Guyana's principal products.

On entering and leaving the Parliament Chamber, the Speaker is preceded by the Sergeant-at-Arms bearing the Mace on his right shoulder.

When the National Assembly is in session, the Mace is placed on the Clerk's table with its head pointing towards the Government side of the Chamber.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

5

You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

Pressing issues for new PNCR Leader Dear Editor, It is necessary to make a few observations on a Stabroek News’ editorial titled “PNCR leadership.”

While the use of logic, reason and analytic rigour made it persuasive, there is, however, a particular issue that needs clarification or elaboration.

It is not about the shame that the PNCR-led coalition put the country through following the 5 months of post-election turmoil, neither is it about a call to condemn violence and bullyism; instead, it relates to the performance of the Leader of the APNU+AFC Parliamentary Opposition, Mr. Joe Harmon.

It was stated that Mr. Joe Harmon “has been a distinctly uninspiring and incompetent Leader of the Opposition, and his serious shortcomings in the Ministry of the Presidency would not have escaped the attention of the PNCR membership either. But the main hurdle he would not have been able to overcome was his connection to former Leader David Granger, who has brought the party to the lowest point in its history, and who is unpopular with the rank and file.”

One important reason Mr. Harmon did not do well at the internal PNCR polls for Leader was due to the direct attack (a few days before

the election) on his integrity by a PNCR supporter, who is also a well-known professional, citing his (Harmon’s) involvement in corrupt transactions. That member expressed satisfaction that the former Minister of Finance is charged by SOCU with “misconduct by a public officer,” but insisted that Mr. Harmon be charged also to have allowed such aberrant behaviour to occur.

This PNCR supporter could have chosen any other corrupt transaction, but decided to choose the one with BK International. The rationale for this choice was twofold: (1) to show PNCR delegates how a massive tract of prime real estate (2,553

acres) in Georgetown was grossly undersold to BK Marine Inc for $20 million when the property at that time was valued at more than $110 million; (2) by stressing the magnitude of this transaction and focusing on its prime beneficiary, that would have sent a powerful signal to PNCR delegates on how they should cast their votes.

There is a general feeling that many PNCR members and supporters are not too comfortable with Mr. Harmon’s friendship with businesspeople, particularly Indo-Guyanese. They know that many major contracts under the PNCR-led regime (2015-2020) were dis-

Punitive sanctions must...

When the Assembly meets as a Committee of the Whole Assembly, the Mace is placed below the Clerk's table.

When the Mace lies upon the table, the House is in session; when under, it is a Committee; When out of the House, no business can be

done; The staffer who tried to protect the Mace from coalition thugs in Parliament at the risk of his personal safety exhibited patriotism and more responsible behaviour than those who are supposed to be “honourable” lawmakers, but who conversely habitually disre-

gard Guyana’s constitutional diktats and descend into the realms of thuggish, anarchical behaviour.

For his pains, the staff member was called a “house negro” by opposition MP Maureen Philadelphia.

One hopes that punitive consequences would

APNU/AFC Opposition’s...

According to the Minister, the Opposition’s behaviour was a “treacherous act” and as such, there must be consequences for those who attempted to undermine and disrupt one of the three branches of Government.

“Therefore, there must be consequences for this –– whether it’s a civil court, whether it’s a criminal court or whether it’s a ruling of the Speaker. But we must never take this lightly…

When I saw the Speaker being knocked over by the persons trying to grab the Mace, are we as Guyanese willing to accept such type of behaviour?… Do we accept that a bunch of people can run up to the Mace and yank it from the Sergeant of Arms, injuring him and injuring another man who was thrown on the ground and called a “house slave” and whose spectacle and watch have been ruined… This cannot be …there must be decency in us,” she stressed.

The Parliamentary Affairs Minister further acknowledged that even past PPP parliamentarians had misbehaved in the National Assembly, but noted that their behaviour was never to that extent as was displayed by the Coalition MPs on Wednesday.

To this end, Teixeira called for those responsible to be held accountable so that there is no reoccurrence

of Wednesday’s events.

“What happened last night must not go down lightly, because it’s saying that it’s okay to do this; that anybody could do this and it’s fine… This is unacceptable to undermine and try to stop not just bill anymore, but to stop the institution – the legislature – from meeting.”

Also at Thursday’s press briefing were several other Ministers of Government, including Dr Singh, who defended the passage of the NRF Bill.

This comes on the heels of the Government of Guyana, hours after the parliamentary session ended, issuing a statement to rebuke the Opposition’s “despicable and reprehensible” behaviour.

It noted that this hallmark piece of legislation, which has repealed the APNU/AFC’s 2019 Act, would ensure the security, transparency and accountability that Guyanese need in order to benefit from the oil and gas revenues.

The Bill provides for a governance structure of how these monies will be used with continuous public disclosures, audits, and parliamentary approvals.

“Blinded by their anti-national stance, they failed to notice that the Government was determined to proceed with the people’s business and conclude this historic

eventuate from the criminal actions that transpired in Parliament yesterday, and the racist slur that was hurled at the courageous young defender of Parliament’s glory.

Yours truly, Adron Pires

FROM PAGE 3

piece of legislation on behalf of our people and nation.

The PPP/C Government will not be derailed by threats, intimidation and bullyism; this has been affirmed during the long five months after the March 2nd General and Regional

FROM PAGE 4

Elections when the same APNU+AFC coalition tried to steal the elections and subvert the will of the people to elect their representatives at free and fair elections,” the missive from the Government detailed.

proportionately awarded to Indian businesses. Rightly or wrongly, they blame Mr. Harmon for allowing that to happen. It was a strategic move, therefore, by elements of the PNCR to get this well-known businessperson/professional to subliminally link Mr. Harmon with Indo-Guyanese businesses.

While one does not know what level of negative impact the tirade against Mr. Harmon had on PNCR members/supporters, it certainly weakened his candidature for Leader among the 42.5% of delegates that voted in the PNCR internal election.

There are misgivings that the new leader of the PNCR, Mr. Aubrey Norton, might not be able to build a multi-ethnic party. His insistence that the PPPC is an ‘installed’ Government; his defence of the PNCR’s position that 2020 electoral irregularities benefited the PPPC; his failure to rebuke PNCR leaders for attacking Caricom leaders; and his agitation against Mr. Vishnu Persaud, CEO of GECOM, and Justice Claudette Singh, GECOM Chair, who were both legally and constitutionally appointed, are not a good foundation upon which to build trust and win the support of other ethnic groups, as well as the international community.

There was a video that showed how another PNCR member was accusing Mr. Norton of racism directed against two female Indo-

Guyanese card-bearing members of the PNCR. That member stated categorically that Mr. Norton could not bridge the ethnic divide, nor would he be able to win enough crossover votes.

Who among the PNCR membership has the capability of winning crossover voters? Would it be Mr. Norton, Mr. Harmon, Mr. Williams, Mr. Ford, Ms. Lawrence, Mr. Holder, or Mr. Jones? Apart from struggling to achieve this goal, the peculiar "power anomaly" that exists within the PNCR party structure further complicates the issue. For example, there is one Representative for the APNU+AFC list; there is a different person as party leader, and a different person as Leader of the Opposition. In the 2015-2020 Parliament, when the PPPC was in the Opposition, only one person held all three positions.

The struggle ahead is formidable. The new PNCR Leader, Mr. Aubrey Norton, must decide on the formulation and deployment of a political strategy (to include image building, democracy promotion, and rejection of violence as a political tool: the most recent manifestation was on Wednesday December 29, 2021, in Parliament) to capture state power. Guyanese are watching carefully how Mr Norton proceeds.

Sincerely, Dr Tara Singh

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

Page

Foundation

◄

2 Exponents

A

n exponent tells how many times a number should be multiplied by itself. An exponent is usually written as a small number next to, and slightly above a number that is larger in size. The larger number is called the base of an exponent. Each exponent represents a “power”. You have already learnt about the powers of 10. 103 is 10 to the 3rd power. Any number can be a base. 24 is 2 to the 4th power. 35 is 3 to the 5th power.

Examples: 103 = 10 x 10 x 10 24 = 2 x 2 x 2 x 2 35 = 3 x 3 x 3 x 3 x 3 46 = 4 x 4 x 4 x 4 x 4 x 4 Often when the exponent is 2, people say squared instead of to the 2nd power.

Remember that squared means “to the 2nd power” You can add and subtract numbers with exponents.

022 is right around the corner! One thing you can add to your Old Year’s Night party that is easy and no-fuss is confetti!

That’s right – the most “fun-fetti” in the world.

Celebrate the New Year with this DIY Glittery Confetti Garland. It is so easy to make and such an inexpensive, gorgeous project!

E

You’ll need

very Old Year’s Night millions of people around the world raise their voices in a chorus of Auld Lang Syne. How did a simple Scottish folk song, with words most people do not know or fully understand, become one of the world's most popular songs?

Scottish bard Robert Burns is the man responsible, though he was inspired by fragments of traditional songs from earlier times.

Lyrics Should auld acquaintance be forgot And never brought to mind?

Should auld acquaintance be forgot And days of auld lang syne?

What to do

Chorus For auld lang syne, my dear For auld lang syne We'll tak a cup o' kindness yet For days of auld lang syne

1 1/2 circle punch Glitter paper/foam Sewing machine or needle and thread Use a 1 1/2 circle punch to cut out all the circles out of glitter paper, just make sure you don’t use too thick of a paper. Cut out three sheets worth of circles.

Then it’s time for the fun part… sewing!

It’s way easier than it seems. Just start feeding your circles into the sewing machine, leaving a little bit in between each circle.

Or use the needle ad thread It’s that easy!! It makes the perfect garland for any event or even everyday decor. (classyclutter.net)

We twa hae run about the braes And pu'd the gowans fine But we've wander'd mony a weary fit Sin days of auld lang syne And we twa hae paidl'd I' the burn Frae morning sun 'til dine But seas between us braid hae roar'd Sin days of auld lang syne Repeat Chorus And surely ye'll be your pint-stowp And surely I'll be mine And we'll tak a cup o' kindness yet For auld lang syne And there's a hand, my trusty fiere And gie's a hand o' thine And we'll tak a right gude-willy waught Repeat Chorus x2 For auld lang syne

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

"Disruptive" APNU/AFC MPs will be punished for "attack on Mace" – Speaker …says NRF Bill was legally passed

Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir

S

peaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir, has vehemently condemned the actions of Opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) for seizing the Mace during a sitting of the House on Wednesday evening. He has noted that there would be repercussions for this gross misconduct.

In what has been described as an attack on the Mace, the Speaker called a press conference on Thursday to address the fiasco which unfolded at the Arthur Chung Conference Center during a debate on the NRF Bill.

Members from the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition had dislodged the Mace from its position in a bid to seize it.

At one point in the proceedings, Personal Assistant to the Speaker, Ean McPherson, was seen latching onto the Mace while lying

on the floor in an attempt to secure it, while Opposition MPs stood by hurling racial slurs and taunts at him.

This, the Speaker noted, cannot be overlooked.

“In every Parliament, the attack on the Mace is an attack on the authority of Parliament. That attack on the Mace cannot go unpunished. Those who attacked that Mace will have to face the consequences. We cannot allow the attack on the Mace to go without repercussions.”

Only the Sergeant of Arms is allowed to touch the Mace.

Nadir pointed out that the Standing Orders would lead to actions being taken against Opposition MPs, since the entire ordeal was recorded.

“One Member of Parliament grabbed the Mace out of its place. The Standing Orders are very, very clear with respect to the process of enforcing pen-

alties against Members of Parliament for gross misconduct in Parliament… Last evening, when the Mace was violently removed by Members of the Opposition, the one who grabbed the base of the desk and the one who assisted, we have that fully recorded,” said the Speaker of the House.

It was indicated that there are a number of ‘remedies’ that can be considered against those culpable.

During the shenanigans, another MP had gained entry into the control room.

That person ripped out connections for the internet and microphones. As a result, the live feed was also disconnected.

Legally passed

Meanwhile, there were contentions about the Natural Resource Fund Bill being passed successfully in the height of the chaos.

However, Nadir asserted that for Parliament to conduct its business in a lawful manner, a quorum and the Mace must be intact. At the time of the passage of the Bill, both were in place. The Government side was seated in the House when the vote was taken.

“There was some concern about the legality of what happened last night, especially with respect to the Natural Resource Fund Bill.

I want to make it pellucid that the Bill was passed lawfully, legally in the National Assembly… Shortly before I put the question on the Natural Resource Fund Bill - and it’s on the live feed - I called for members to take their seat because a person can only speak or vote from the seat. I kept mon-

Opposition MPs seen removing the Mace from its place during the sitting

itoring, and I noticed that they had almost all of the Government members in these seats…The two ingredients necessary for a lawful passage of bills, motions in the National Assembly were present,” he clarified.

The Speaker contended that his job is to ensure that the business of the people is conducted.

Replica Mace

The Mace used during Wednesday’s proceedings is an exact replica of the original – which has been damaged and set aside for repair.

“Since my ascension, we looked at many possible occurrences, and one was to have another Mace in the event the traditional Mace

could not be found, to put in place whenever Parliament sits. The smaller Mace that we used last evening is an exact replica of the Mace that was presented to Guyana by the House of Commons when we became independent,” Nadir told the media.

Staffers of the National Assembly were applauded for the execution of their duties to secure the Mace and uphold the sovereignty of the country. However, the Speaker concurred that such ‘uncivilized’ behaviour should not be repeated.

“The staff of the National Assembly executed the duties in a most humble, restrained, and professional manner… Emotions and tempers will flare, but we

have young, bright, next generations who are watching all of this. I want to appeal to them. This incident in Parliament ought to strengthen your resolve that, going forward, this country should not behave in such an uncivilized manner,” Nadir has said.

He added, “If this country is going to grow and blossom to its full potential, understanding civility and playing by the rules must be the order of the day. I condemn the behaviour of the Opposition Members of Parliament, total disrespect to the institution and the Speaker. I have been lenient with respect to the comments outside of the Parliament. Inside of the Parliament, we’re going to have to enforce the rules.”

8 NEWS

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Bar Association among “most consulted” organisations on draft Local Content Bill – AG

Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC

A

ttorney General Anil Nandlall has outright debunked a statement by the Bar Council of the Bar Association of Guyana that it did not receive adequate consultation on the Local Content Bill which was passed into law on Wednesday.

In setting the record straight, Nandlall said, “My understanding is that the Bar Association was one of the most consulted organisations.

They participated for several months in several engagements which I consider to be consultations.”

For instance, he said, he and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh, and Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat attended a consultative engagement at the Pegasus Hotel with a number of local organisations, including representatives of the Bar Association.

Speaking on the “elaborate” interactions that were had with the Bar Association on the Local Content Bill were Senior Petroleum Coordinator

at the Natural Resources Ministry, Bobby Gossai, and the Ministry’s Legal Officer, Michael Munroe.

According to Gossai, they met with the Bar Council and members of the Association for “quite a number of engagements” since March 2021, when the Draft Local Content Policy was presented.

Afterward, he said, the Ministry engaged in strategic consultations with different bodies, associations and groups, with the Bar Association being one of those. “We have been engaging them since March all the way up until [Wednesday] on the policy into the draft Bill that we have,” the Economist related.

He added that they have been receiving active correspondence from the Bar Association from April, earlier this month, and up to Wednesday.

The Senior Petroleum Coordinator noted that they have been forwarding comments to the Bar on where they were taking the policy and going with the Local Content Bill.

Importantly, he pointed out, the Bar was given assurance that there were going to be consultations with different representatives, industry associations, and other bodies as they continue to develop Guyana’s local content institutional framework and the local content reporting mechanism.

The Bar Association on Wednesday decried the time allotted to review the circulated Local Content Policy, saying it was not sufficient for considered comments and

Bedlam...

B

President of the Guyana Bar Association, Attorneyat-Law Pauline Chase

Senior Petroleum Coordinator at the Natural Resources Ministry, Bobby Gossai

engagements, and falls well below the legal minimum standard for meaningful consultation.

“The said Bill is expected to be passed in the National Assembly soon, and possibly as early as [Wednesday]. That is some eight working days after its publication and during the Christmas holiday season,” said the Bar in a statement issued on Wednesday.

It noted that a draft copy of the Bill was not made available to the Bar Association prior to its publication, as is usually the course for consideration and comment; same touching and concerning legal services.

With less than one working day’s notice, the Bar Association has said, it was invited to a meeting, along with other bodies, to discuss the Bill. Discussions convened without having the benefit of a draft Bill, the missive added.

The statement continued, “Notwithstanding the short notice, tight timeline, and ab-

sence of the proposed Bill, the Bar Association made submissions thereon. Since the publication of the Bill, the Bar Association has sought further engagement, made comments, and raised queries to which there has been no considered response despite the undertaking to do so by 2:15 pm on 28th December 2021.”

The Bar Council has also taken issue with comments made by the Attorney General during debates in the National Assembly. The comments, the Bar Council noted, gave the impression that “Guyanese Legal Practitioners do not have the capacity and/or are not qualified to handle matters which he described as ‘technical legal documents’ and ‘joint venture agreements’, as a seeming justification for the target of 90% instead of the requested 100% by the Bar Association.”

The Bar said, too, that the statement further gives the impression that persons who are not duly admitted to practise law in Guyana under the Legal Practitioners Act (LPA) may do so by performing legal services.

The association further pointed out that it completely rejects Nandlall’s “ill-informed” comments, particularly since “we have not, despite requests, not been told what areas of law members of the Bar are not qualified to practice (there being no such limitation in the LPA), and who is to provide the other 10 per cent.”

However, Nandlall is maintaining his statement.

In fact, he said, “We have said repeatedly that 90 percent is a temporary benchmark that we are setting…I know the Bar Association feels that they know a lot of law and that they can do everything under the sun, but as a Government, we have to be careful; these contracts, they’re complicated, they’re complex, they have aberration clauses that are complicated.

Considering this, the Attorney General insisted, “We do not have the skill to do it in Guyana, and I maintained that I don’t know that we have in Guyana 100% competency in relation to all legal matters.”

The Bar Association has since pointed out that members of the Bar, including Senior Counsel, have already performed the services Nandlall is speaking about.

…by the PNC edlam is a scene of madness, chaos, or absolute confusion. It came out of the slurred medieval Londoners’ pronunciation of the name of their first lunatic asylum - “Bethlem” - for Bethlehem. Rich people even paid good money to watch their antics. Well, there’s no question that the PNC turned the National Assembly – being held at the Conference Centre due to COVID-19 sensitivities – into the very definition of “bedlam” on Thursday! Since, in the opinion of your Eyewitness, they’re going to repeat the performance at every future sitting, the Government might as well start selling tickets to generate some more income for our development! If you’re served lime, it’s time to make and sell “swank”, no?

But your Eyewitness hopes the PPP isn’t surprised that the PNC would descend to these depths of lawlessness. Any party that would trample on the Constitution of their country – as they did three Christmases ago when they refused to comply with their loss of the NCM – has already declared war on all civilised political norms. Nothing is sacred when it comes to seizing power for this aggrandisement! Remember the bedlam at Ashmin’s Building when they tried to rig the elections, they’d been dragged kicking and screaming to conduct? With PNC Chair Volda Lawrence screaming like a fishmonger in the faces of PPP officials?

But, somehow, your Eyewitness hoped the PNC would remember the actions of their Founder-Leader Burnham, when it came to the sanctity of Parliament. They certainly invoke his name at every opportunity they get – as they vow to uphold his “legacy”!!! It’s a matter of record that when he and Cheddi were once walking out of Parliament in protest back in the day, Burnham still bowed to the Mace as he passed by!! He was smart enough to realise he should observe the FORM of the law - even when he traduced its spirit!

We all know by now that the PNC are prepared to not just oppose the PPP Govt as is their mandate – but to “expose and depose” them, in the words of Raphael Trotman when he vied for the PNC leadership! This is the path the PNC are determined to follow – as was shown by them voting in the pugnacious Aubrey Norton as the new leader. Most of the bunch in Parliament weren’t on Norton’s team that vowed to be aggressive against the PPP, so they’ll stand on their heads to show they’re even more rabid in their extremism!

And it’s for this reason you could have a PNC former army officer and present MP grab and desecrate the Mace – which represents the authority of Parliament, while her other MPs assaulted Ashni.

The PNC are determined to seize power by any means necessary! …ahead Your Eyewitness will repeat the point he made above the PNC are gonna create bedlam in our country at every opportunity they get in the coming year. And when they don’t GET opportunities, they’ll simply CONCOCT them!

Seriously now, do you think they really believed the PPP was vaccinating African-Guyanese to commit “ethnic genocide” when the MoH was vaccinating ALL Guyanese?

Pleeease!! The CONCOCTIONS won’t just come from within the PNC, but from all the hangers-on so-called “parties” vying for relevance! Any lie you can tell.

We’ve heard about the “Judicialization” of politics by two UWI academics, who observed the logjam in Guyanese politics - exemplified by the recount fiasco. The politicians invariably appeal to the Courts to make THEIR decisions. Well, the PNC have now signalled - through their contretemps in Parliament - that they’re gonna be more extremist. It’s the beginning of a slippery slope that started with protests outside the Courts, then arson and violence in the “mo’ fyaah; slow fyaah” strategy, and finally with the Buxton Freedom Fighters.

Where’d that get them? …in COVID-19 Good that the Health Minister’s not making the mistake the American CDC did and lowering our guards against COVID-19.

Whether or not we’ve detected it, it’ll be here! Like the Scouts say: BE PREPARED!!

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Duo busted with counterfeit US notes

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wo males – one 22 and the other 29 - were arrested on Thursday after a quantity of counterfeit US notes were found during a Police operation on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD).

The Police have said they carried out an operation at Dr Miller Street, Triumph, ECD, during which they came across the fake US currency.

A total of 10 US$20 bills, all bearing serial # LL 000000000; one US$50 bill and one US$100 bill were unearthed.

The two suspects who were in the house at the time were arrested and taken to the Beterverwagting Police Station, where they remain in custody. Investigations are ongoing.

The US currency that was found during the Police operation

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Essequibo fish vendor perishes after fire guts home

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60-year-old fish vendor of Walton Hall, Essequibo Coast Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) met his demise on Thursday after his home went up in flames.

Dead is Ramdass Samdass, who shared the property with his partner,

The aftermath of the tragic fire

Serogene Persaud.

The Guyana Fire Service responded to reports of a fire at about 13:26h, and two fire tenders from the Anna Regina station were immediately dispatched to the location. Firefighters attempted to extinguish the blaze, but the wooden one-

flat building was completely destroyed, along with furniture and other contents.

By the time the flames had been extinguished, the structure was completed charred and flattened.

Guyana Times understands that Samdass tried to escape the blaze.

However, he was severely burned, and later succumbed to his wounds.

Attempts to save him also proved futile. His partner did not sustain any injuries.

Meanwhile, an investigation is underway to ascertain the cause of the

fire. Consequently, the GFS has urged citizens to equip their homes with smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, and to be careful when cooking or using electrical appliances.

“Unplug electrical appliances after use, and do not leave them plugged in for

Dead: Ramdass Samdass

prolonged periods. Do not overload power strips or electrical circuits. Ensure stoves are turned off properly (after) cooking, and ensure matches or cigarettes are put out completely (after) smoking,” a GFS statement has said.

13 Parliament staff files complaint to ERC against APNU/AFC MP’s racial slurs NEWS

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

– recounts being ‘‘racially abused’’, “kicked in ribs” in bid to protect Mace

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an McPherson, the Personal Assistant to the Speaker of the National Assembly, has filed a complaint with the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) after he was verbally and physically abused during his bid to protect the Parliament Mace from being seized by the APNU+AFC Opposition on Wednesday evening.

When the APNU+AFC Members of Parliament (MP) snatched the Mace in an attempt to block the passage of the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Bill, McPherson made it his duty to secure the symbolic object.

Photos and videos went viral of him holding tightly onto the Mace as APNU+AFC Parliamentarian Maureen Philadelphia allegedly hurled racial remarks towards him, calling him names such as “house slave” and “house neg***”.

Guyana Times, along with other media operatives, caught up with McPherson on Thursday as he visited the ERC Secretariat to formally lodge his complaint.

In an interview with reporters, the parliamentary staff recalled that “while performing duties assisting the Speaker, what happened with the Mace and so on, I wasn’t with that. I stood back. As video would show, I stood back and I noticed Ms. Annette Ferguson grabbed the Mace and tried to remove it. I tried to protect the Mace, knowing the seriousness of the Mace, our national treasure, I held on to the Mace Ean McPherson on the ground protecting the Mace as and I was flung to the floor. Some of APNU/AFC's Maureen Philadelphia hurls racial slurs at us may have a look at the video which him

will show you me on the floor, but how did I get on the floor outside of the stairs? That is the next question. I was flung on the floor. I overheard people screaming ‘Kick he! Lash he! Drag he! Let’s throw he over the rails!’.

All I said, ‘Throw me over the rails, because I know when I’m going over the rail, I’m going with the Mace’.

“I grabbed the Mace, put it between my legs. They throw me on the ground, dragged me, take me outside, and then Mrs Philadelphia started to abuse me with a series of racial words like ‘house slave’. But the one that caught me and I don’t know how I became a ‘house neg***”. So, I prepared a letter and I dropped it upstairs, and I showed my concerns of how I was treated,” McPherson said.

“I was kicked in my ribs. My foot will show you where fingernails (were imprinted) because I was literally dragged down the corridors,” the man explained, noting that after he was outside, he heard remarks such as, “Y’all leave he now, leave he, once the Mace outside.”

“I told them I ain’t going nowhere. If I

going, the Mace going with me, so throw me over. The world will see me and the Mace flying,” McPherson related.

McPherson said he is no hero, but simply a patriotic Guyanese. “I don’t want to be called a hero. I am a patriotic Guyanese.

I am a person who’s been paid by the State, so I was basically doing my job as the Assistant to the Mr. Speaker,” he contended.

Asked what he hopes would be the outcome of his complaint to the ERC, McPherson said, “I know for a fact that there is no commission in place, and they will do some investigations. But that is why I did a hard copy to ensure that it is there.

What I want is for the world to know that it is time that we move away from racial slurs and calling people names.”

McPherson is 53 years old and has been working as the personal assistant to the Speaker for about a year. McPherson has said he is also a “highly trained military personnel”, having worked with both the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and the Guyana Police Force (GPF).

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NEWS

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Police sought legal advice Man gets 2 years for unlawful in 3297 cases in 2021 possession of gun, ammo – to face attempted murder charge in January

The illegal gun that was confiscated from the suspect

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he Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) gave legal advice in 3,297 files received from the Guyana Police Force (GPF) for 2021. This is according to the end-of-year statistics released by the DPP’s Office.

Most recently, the DPP Chambers advised on the institution of criminal charges against several former Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and APNU-AFC officials who are accused of attempting to rig the March 02, 2020 General and Regional Elections.

Over the years, offences for which the Chambers have given advice include murder, manslaughter, rape, fatal accidents, possession of illegal arms and ammunition, and rape of a child under 16, among oth-

ers.

Apart from the GPF, the DPP’s Office also offers legal advice to the Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) and other Government agencies.

The DPP also provides legal advice to Government Ministries.

Among other things, the functions of the DPP include presenting indictments in the criminal sessions at the High Courts in Demerara, Berbice, and Essequibo.

During these criminal sessions, one or more state counsel would be assigned to prosecute the cases listed to be heard by the sitting trial judges.

There are four assizes for the year in the county of Demerara, and three assizes each in the counties of Berbice and Essequibo. The courts in all three counties sit nearly simultaneously

during these assizes.

The DPP also enters plea bargain agreements with lawyers at their request, and after due consideration of the matter. Furthermore, prisoners who are awaiting trial in the High Courts and other parties to a criminal matter can complain to the DPP if they are not satisfied with Police investigations.

The DPP also receives letters from Attorneys-atLaw about issues concerning their clients’ cases. The Office of the DPP would take the appropriate action. Complaints received on misconduct by members of the Police Force are sent to the Commissioner of Police for action to be taken by the Office of Professional Responsibility. Complaints can also be made to the Police Complaints Authority for their action.

Morris Torres

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ighty-year-old Agnes Peters of #72 Miles Potaro Road Bartica is now nursing an injury to her right shoulder, sustained after she was shot at Butakuri Junction, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), by a suspect who was highly intoxicated.

The Police have said that on the day in question, the victim’s husband, Bernard Peters, had gone to his daughter’s shop to cook when he saw the suspect with a shotgun in his hand.

The suspect then purchased

a bottle of High Wine, which he consumed until about 21:00h, at which time he had become intoxicated.

The victim and her husband went to their camp, located approximately 80 feet from the shop, and while there, they heard three loud explosions and immediately realised that the victim had been shot to her right shoulder.

The victim and her husband ran out of their camp and went to #72 Miles, where they sought refuge.

Soon after, the Toshao managed to confiscate the shotgun and apprehend the suspect.

The victim and suspect were escorted to Bartica, where the victim was admitted at the hospital and is in

stable condition. The suspect, on the other hand, was handed over to the Police, and remains in their custody.

One 20-gauge single-barrel shotgun and three cartridges were also handed over to the cops.

This suspect, Morris Torres, appeared before Magistrate Crystal Lambert at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court, and was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment after pleading guilty to unlawful possession of a gun and ammunition. He has also been fined $100,000 for each charge.

He will make his next court appearance on January 17, 2022 to answer to a charge of attempting to commit murder.

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

157 new COVID infections, 1 death detected in 24h

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he Health Ministry reported on Thursday that a total of 157 new COVID-19 infections were reported, along with one death within a 24-hour period.

The Ministry announced the latest fatality as an unvaccinated 69-year-old male from Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), who died on December 30, thus taking the overall death toll to 1052.

Of the positive cases, 18,586 are males, and 20,809 are females. This means there are 39,395 confirmed cases of the virus.

However, new statistics provided by the Ministry have shown that seven persons are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 30 are in institutional isolation, 711 are in home isolation, and five are in institutional quarantine.

In addition, the Ministry has stated that 37,595 persons have recovered from the deadly virus.

To date, 422,927 tests were conducted. A breakdown of new infections shows that one was reported in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam); 12 in Region Three (Essequibo IslandWest Demerara); 86 in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica); three in Region

Five (Mahaica-Berbice); 26 in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), three in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and six in Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice).

No new cases were detected in Regions One (Barima-Waini), Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) and Eight (Potaro-Siparuni).

The Ministry has reported that 410,825 adults, or 80.1 per cent of that demographic, have received a first dose of the vaccine, while 294,842 persons, or 57.5 per cent of that demographic, have received a second dose of the vaccine. For the 12-to17 age cohort, 30,317 persons, or 41.6 per cent of that demographic, have been immunised with a first dose.

Of this number, 21,652 persons, or 29.7 per cent of that demographic, have received a second dose.

Meanwhile, 11,496 booster doses have been administered.

“We have seen more people coming out for boosters, but other than that, it’s pretty much the same…Those persons who are eligible, we want them to come out, because I think it is important for people to be boosted at this time,” Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony appealed on Thursday.

Pedal cyclist crushed by truck on EBD corridor

Dead: Budhram Sookhoo

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pedal cyclist was tragically killed on Thursday after he was crushed by a truck along the Grove Public Road, East Bank Demerara (EBD). Dead is 64-yearold Budhram Sookhoo of Herstelling, EBD. The accident reportedly occurred at about 11:50h, and involved motor lorry GYY 5319 being driven by a 32-year-old man from Soesdyke, EBD. Based on reports received, the vehicle was proceeding along the roadway when the left side front wheel collided with the rear wheel of the man’s pedal cycle. The pedal cyclist was riding in front of the truck at the time of the accident.

As a result of the col-

lision, Sookhoo fell on the roadway and was run over by the left side rear wheel of the truck.

The man was then picked up in an unconscious state, and was rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

When Guyana Times visited Sookhoo’s home on Thursday afternoon, his relatives were too distraught to speak.

However, a nephew, Sean Singh, in a telephone interview, explained that he was made aware of the incident by another relative. “Another cousin come and told me, so we went and identify the body.”

Singh explained that he is unsure where his uncle was heading at the time of the fatal accident.

“He wasn’t here, so we didn’t know where he was riding and going. He was a real alright person… nobody does want to hear that their family member passed away, but you have to be strong,” Singh expressed.

Sookhoo had been a labourer and father of two. He was not married, and would normally ride around in his village and surrounding communities.

Meanwhile, a breathalyzer test conducted on the truck driver revealed no signs of alcohol in his system.

A person immunised with Sputnik V can take the Johnson and Johnson vaccine as their booster dose.

Meanwhile, those with Pfizer and Sinopharm are required to take the same vaccines respectively. Since Moderna booster shots are unavailable, Pfizer doses can work. For the AstraZenecaimmunised subset, a recommended Pfizer shot can also be taken. These shots are to be taken six months after. Persons completely immunised with Johnson and Johnson vaccines can get the same vaccine as a booster dose two months after.

Since protection from the virus is shown to wane after some time, it is important to take the booster doses in order to restore immunity. This is especially important for persons with comorbidities, who stand a greater chance of developing a severe form of the virus.

Comorbid conditions include cancer, cerebrovascular diseases, chronic kidney diseases, chronic lung diseases, chronic liver diseases, diabetes, Down Syndrome, heart conditions, HIV, mental health disorders, neurological conditions, obesity, pregnancy, sickle cell anaemia, tuberculosis, solid organ transplant patients, smokers, or those with substance use disorder.

All Guyanese are reminded to observe the protocols of the COVID-19 Emergency Measures (NO.24), which are in effect until December 31, 2021. This order emphasises the need for everyone 12 years and older to get vaccinated against COVID-19; the need for correct and con-

GUYANA COVID-19 DASHBOARD DECEMBER 30, 2021 UPDATE

NUMBER OF NEW CASES

157

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL ISOLATION NUMBER OF PERSONS IN HOME ISOLATION

30 711

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN COVID-19 ICU

7

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL QUARANTINE

5

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (FEMALES)

20,809

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (MALES)

18,586

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES IN GUYANA SINCE 2020

39,395

NUMBER OF RECOVERED CASES

37,595

TOTAL 1st DOSE VACCINATED FULLY IMMUNISED

REGION 1

1702

REGION 2

1587

REGION 3

5215

REGION 4

18,391

REGION 5

1493

REGION 6

3762

REGION 7

1816

REGION 8

623

REGION 9

2521

REGION 10

2285

HERE IS HOW YOU CAN BE SAFE DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC Wear a face mask.

410,825 294,842

TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES SINCE MARCH 2020

1052

Keep a physical distance of at least 6 feet.

Wash your hands or use handsanitizer If you have any symptoms, call the COVID-19 Hotline.

GET MEDICAL ADVICE ON COVID-19 FROM MOH 24/7 HOTLINE NUMBERS: 2311166; 226 7480; 624 6674; 624 2819; 624 3067 OR 180/181. sistent use of a face mask when leaving your home; the importance of maintaining the six feet physical distance from others; and the need for good hand-hygiene

to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

If anyone is displaying any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19, or need any additional informa-

tion, they are asked to contact the COVID-19 Hotline: 231-1166, 226-7480, or 6246674 immediately, or visit us at www.health.gov.gy

12 of 341 cases completed during October session of Demerara Criminal Assizes …364 cases listed to be heard at upcoming session

The High Court in Demerara

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he October session of the Demerara Criminal Assizes commenced on October 5 at the High Court in Demerara, and according to a statement from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), only 12 of 341 cases were completed.

The session was presided over by Justices Brassington Reynolds and Jo-Ann Barlow. During the

Assizes, the State disposed of 12 matters, five of which were presented in the High Court. The other seven matters were nolle prosequi.

There were two not guilty verdicts by jury, two formal verdicts of not guilty, and one guilty plea. Senior State Counsel Lisa Cave and State Counsel Latiffa Elliot completed the two murder matters before Justice Barlow.

In one case, the trial

judge upheld a no-case submission and directed the jury to return a formal verdict of not guilty, while in the other, the accused was acquitted after the jury delivered a unanimous jury verdict of not guilty.

State Counsels Sarah Martin and Nafeeza Baig prosecuted one of the sexual offences’ cases. The accused in this matter pleaded guilty and has been sentenced to

15 years’ imprisonment.

Senior State Counsel Seeta Bishundial, together with State Counsels Latiffa Elliot and Muntaz Ali, completed the remaining two matters in the Sexual Offences Court before Justice Reynolds. The accused persons in those cases were acquitted. In one case, the jury returned a unanimous verdict of not guilty. In the other, the trial judge upheld a no-case submission and directed the jury to return a formal verdict of not guilty.

The seven matters nolle prosequi by the DPP were for sexual offences, in which the complainants, in each case, submitted written statements indicating that they did not wish to proceed with their matters.

Moreover, the January 2022 session of the Demerara Criminal Assizes would be open on Tuesday, January 11, 2022. There are 364 cases listed to be heard. Justices Reynolds, Priya Sewnarine-Beharry and Simone Morris-Ramlall have been rostered to sit during this session.

NEWS

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Private Sector bodies condemn Opposition’s “vulgarity”, “hooliganism” in National Assembly

GCCI President Timothy Tucker

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everal Private Sector bodies have condemned the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Opposition for their vulgar behaviour and hooliganism during the debate on the Natural Resource Fund Bill in the National Assembly on Wednesday evening.

In objection to the passage of the Bill, the Opposition started protesting in the House and this escalated into a confrontation between coalition Members of Parliament (MP) and Parliament staff after one of the APNU/AFC members snatched the Parliament Mace from in front of the House Speaker as he was seated at his desk. This was in addition to blowing whis-

tles while walking around in the pit of the Assembly and surrounding Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh as he was making his presentation.

The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), in a statement on Thursday, strongly condemned the behaviour of some of the Opposition Members.

“Having a keen interest in listening to the debate on the Bills which were in the House, it is with utter shock and dismay that members of the GCCI witnessed a devolution of the parliamentary proceedings into what can best be described as hooliganism,” the missive detailed.

According to the GCCI, the attempt to remove the Speaker’s ceremonial mace was “an intolerable action” and disrespect to the chairperson of the highest decision-making body of Guyana.

“The GCCI is of the view that this type of behaviour has no place in a modern society where civil discourse and debate ought to be the underpinnings of the dialectical process which obtains in Parliament… The Chamber of Commerce wishes to remind parliamentarians, particularly those who wish to engage in recalcitrant and unbecoming be-

GGDMA President Andron Alphonso

haviour, that they are representatives of the people of the Republic of Guyana at a time when the country has international attention.”

The Georgetown Chamber added, “Such reprehensible behaviour has the ability to further damage the credibility of our country as a stable society and environment for doing business – a credibility already under strain by the attempt to subvert the will of the electorate in General and Regional Elections (GRE) 2020.”

Additionally, the entity also blasts the coalition members who had hurled racist remarks at Parliament staff Ean McPherson, after he was verbally and physically abused during his bid to protect the Parliament

Mace from being seized by Opposition MPs. To this end, the GCCI called on Speaker Manzoor Nadir to ensure that those responsible for the breakdown of order in the National Assembly were dealt with “condignly and with great alacrity”.

Moreover, the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC), also in a statement on Thursday, said it “…condemns in the strongest form the brazen vulgarity and disruption of the National Assembly proceedings yesterday by the political Opposition – to prevent the passage of the NRF Bill”.

GOGEC noted that while MPs may enjoy parliamentary immunity, this should not negate the strongest possible action being meted out to the intellectual author (s) of what occurred in the National Assembly.

“This level of political indecency cannot be condoned and tolerated going forward as it has severe adverse consequences for political stability and investment in Guyana, thus stymieing the development of the country.

Finally, for those who are responsible for the chaos that evidently seems to be pre-planned – the strongest action and/or the full force of the law be applied to the perpetrators and to prevent

GOGEC President Manniram Prashad

a recurrence of this nationally embarrassing display of political lawlessness and bullyism,” the entity posited. According to GOGEC, the Opposition’s behaviour on Wednesday comes at the time when Guyana is on the cusp of accelerating its economic transformation and is being watched by the international community.

On this note, the Oil and Gas Energy Chamber called on stakeholders; Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and the business community to join the condemnation of the Opposition’s egregious acts.

Meanwhile, the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) also condemned the “unparliamentary” behaviour that played out in the National

Assembly, calling on politicians to put Guyana first and to work together in a peaceful and dignified manner in keeping with the expectation of the citizenry.

“Democracy and a respect for the rule of law must become the hallmarks on which a growing Guyana must be built. The nation is still reeling and is yet to fully recover from the undemocratic attempts to hold on to power in 2020. We must guard against slipping into that pit again. The Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association condemns the blatant and vulgar attempts to subvert democracy. Guyana cannot continue to be the Caribbean’s parliamentary laughingstock, we must do better,” the Association asserted.

It went on to remind that MPs are elected by the people to represent them in the highest decision-making body and not to act out like the “common rabble”.

The GGDMA further contended that parliamentarians could not deny Guyanese the representation they need, and must have, if the country is to progress. As such, it called on all MPs to return to the democratic practices and behaviours that should be associated with Guyana’s highest decision-making body.

GMSA welcomes passage of Local Content, NRF legislation

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he Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) has commended the concerted efforts of the Government to finalise and pass the Local Content Policy (LCP) and the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Bill.

The Bills were passed in the National Assembly on Wednesday evening.

In a release issued by the GMSA, it stated that legislation was critical to having sound and effective management of the extractive sectors for Guyana’s economic growth and stability. The Association, the missive added, therefore, extends full support for the passage of the “Local Content Policy for the Development of Guyana’s Petroleum Economy” and the “Natural Resource Fund Bill 2021”, with precedented anticipation, that each Bill would provide avenues for the rapid progression of the manufacturing and services value chain. As a key contributor to the LCP and the NRF Bills from the initial consultation stages, the GMSA can attest that the Government’s inclusion of the Private Sector assured of its intention for transparency and governance in developing the framework which guides each Bill.

However, in consideration of the Government’s high-priority agenda to

GMSA President Rafeek Khan

pass the legislation, the Association acknowledges that these policies would be subject to emergent revisions and improvements. As a major contributor to economic growth in Guyana, the GMSA calls for continued and more participative consultations with Private Sector support organisations.

Recommendations from each industry must be fully considered with timely feedback from the Government, to successfully develop and reinforce the regulatory strategies with respect to the LCP and NRF Bills.

This proactive collaboration will, therefore, guarantee improved capacity building for private businesses and ensure public-private cooperation.

As Guyana moves into a new dispensation of growth, Sovereign Wealth Funds (SWF) will play an integral

role in the stabilisation and sustainability of the country’s economy and accelerate the national objectives for socio-economic progress.

In order to maximise the benefits of resource revenues, the GMSA lauds the Government’s recognition that these funds must have strict governance under the management of a Board comprising a team of specialists with knowledge in international investments and markets.

“We wish to reiterate that members must be adequately qualified and represent varied segments of the community. Moreover, Private Sector representation on the Board is of critical importance and the GMSA strongly encourages that this representative be meticulously evaluated prior to selection, to ensure the requisite experience, knowledge, and expertise are met,” the organisation added.

It stated that the NRF Bill would provide a mechanism to enable and accelerate the development and advancement of industries in Guyana. The country will be positioned to transition from a predominantly primary economy to enhanced manufacturing and services industries.

“For decades the major hindrances to growth and competitiveness in Guyana have been limited access to

finance, inadequate and poor infrastructure, high energy costs, outdated technology, and shortage of qualified skills. It is imperative that priority be given in these areas as we seek to strengthen and diversify the non-oil industries,” the GMSA noted.

Further, it related that it was cognisant that there was much to be done in terms of capacity building among local stakeholders, and as such, it believed that with the right strategies which include technology transfer and partnership

between experienced companies and the local Private Sector, a sustainable and lucrative pathway could be achieved for Guyanese as we continue to collaborate for more inclusion in local content and natural resource benefits.

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021|| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NY Democracy group supports Guyana’s Local Content & NRF legislation

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he New York-based Guyana Democracy Project (NY GDP), in a statement on Thursday, expressed support for Guyana’s newly-passed Local Content and Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Bills, which puts the legal framework in place to govern the country’s oil and gas sector in an accountable and transparent manner and for the benefit of all Guyanese.

Noting that the former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Administration did not prepare a Local Content Bill for the nascent energy industry in its five years in office, the NY GDP says such legislation to include Guyanese as the primary beneficiaries of the oil and gas sector was “long overdue”.

In this regard, the organisation applauded the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration for taking the “bold and decisive steps” towards the inclusion of locals in the industry.

Guyana finally has much-anticipated local content laws after the Local Content Bill was approved in the National Assembly on

Wednesday with the inclusion of 10 of the 14 amendments that were proposed by the APNU/AFC Opposition.

In underscoring the importance of such laws, the NY GDP organisation highlighted that several countries that recently found oil and gas have prepared local content laws to deal with various aspects of production and shore base support such as contracts, bidding practices and materials used in the industry including supply of food.

“Such legislation boosts local job creation and domestic Private Sector, facilitates technology transfer, and builds a competitive local workforce,” the group noted.

According to the NY GDP, Guyana’s Local Content legislation is consistent with its “mission to promote good governance, accountability, and democracy” in the country.

The organisation further noted that it has studied the Local Content Bill and reviewed comments from civil society; Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) as well as critics, and has determined that the new law would “meet its specific ob-

jectives: include Guyanese partners with foreign investors, create jobs, improve governance and accountability, and promote social and economic development, among other positive outcomes”.

Moreover, the NY-based group commended the Government for accepting the majority of the amendments proposed by the Opposition and for engaging with a wide cross-section of society.

The NY GDP also made note of the NRF Bill, which was passed in the National Assembly amid much ruckus and “thuggish” behaviour from the APNU/ AFC Opposition, noting that it was also a step in the right direction.

The organisation reminded that the previous NRF Bill had “many loopholes” that were subjected to “abuse”.

“Essentially, the main features of the PNCR Bill remain intact, except for the governance structure.

Unlike in the previous Bill, the Minister of Finance would not have sole authority over the fund. A governance Board of Directors will be set up to manage the

Presence of Omicron will determine changes to COVID-19 guidelines – Health Minister

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ealth Minister Dr Frank Anthony on Thursday clarified that the current COVID-19 guidelines which govern operations in Guyana would not be changed, unless the new Omicron variant is detected among the population.

Speaking during the daily briefing, the Health Minister indicated that the US Center for Disease Control and other countries are changing guidelines based on the prevailing conditions within their respective jurisdictions. The CDC has said that persons are to isolate for five days. If this time has elapsed and they are asymptomatic, they can come out of isolation, but must follow the mask-wearing and other guidelines.

It has been pointed out that the Delta variant is still in circulation in Guyana, and these guidelines would not be applicable.

“The variant that we have circulating is till the Delta variant, and therefore we have to be mindful at this point in time. Those guidelines might not be applicable to us. If and when we do get the Omicron variant, we’ll probably have to review within that context.

As of now, I don’t think we will change the guidelines, until we can confirm that we’ve had cases of Omicron here,” he informed.

In places where there is a higher risk of being infected, the Minister has ad-

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony

vised persons to wear an N95 mask. In a lower-risk setting, a cloth mask can be used. However, it is not as effective.

“The pores in the [cloth] mask are relatively big, and therefore, viral particles can pass through if you’re in close proximity with somebody who is infected,” Dr Anthony has explained.

Speaking on COVICURB, Dr Anthony said the public can expect more patrols by the Joint Services to ensure a ‘less-challenging’ 2022.

“What we don’t want is, after the holidays, that we start seeing an increase, a big spike in cases. If we do have that, then depending on how many cases, it can quickly overwhelm our system. We want to make sure that we manage this properly, and to manage it properly, we need the public’s cooperation. People have

to be socially responsible.

Don’t go to these parties that are crowded, and abide by the rules,” the Health Minister cautioned.

On November 26, the WHO designated the variant B.1.1.529 as a variant of concern. It has been named Omicron on the advice of WHO’s Technical Advisory Group on Virus Evolution (TAG-VE). This decision was based on the evidence presented to the TAG-VE that Omicron has several mutations that may have an impact on how it behaves; for instance: how easily it spreads, or the severity of illness it causes.

Data surrounding the new strain points to a higher transmissibility and reinfection. It is said to be 5.2 times more infectious than the Delta variant.

Recently, Dr Anthony assured that upon signs that Omicron is here, provisions are in place to send samples for genomic sequencing. For variants to be detected, samples need to undergo genomic sequencing to examine the strain.

“Given the way it is spreading around the world, we would anticipate at some point that it would get to Guyana. We have mechanisms in place that when we have such suspected cases, we’ll be able to take those samples and send them to a lab that will be able to do the sequencing,” he was quoted as saying.

Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat displays the passed bill on Wednesday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre

fund. All funds will be placed in the Consolidated Account.

The Minister of Finance could be jailed if he failed to make public the receipt and withdrawal of funds. And a formula is laid out for the allocation of oil revenues for budget support to promote development projects. These are laudable features,” the organisation highlighted.

As such, the NY GDP said the passage of this new Bill has given Guyanese greater economic opportuni-

ties in the oil and gas sector.

“The time for action on Local Content legislation and activating the NRF has long passed so as to ensure domestic economic participation and development and preventing abuse of the Fund,” the organisation posited.

The NY GDP contended that no matter what Bill was prepared, debated, amended or legislated, “there will always be sections of the population not pleased with it”.

Notwithstanding, the organisation said “the Local Content and NRF Bills are a very good start”.

Moreover, the NY GDP explained that both pieces are “living documents that can be changed with time”.

“And it is anticipated that the legislation will undergo change as the Government and local investors develop capacity in the sector,” the group posited.

Meanwhile, the NY GDP said it consulted with members of the Guyanese Diaspora who have expressed their satisfaction with both the Local Content and NRF Bills.

“They are pleased with provisions in the legislation.

And as such, we join with other groups in Guyana in supporting the legislation. We call on all forces in Guyana, including the Opposition, to support the legislation on local content and NRF that will benefit all Guyanese. We should put aside politics and back these pieces of legislation,” the organisation said.

Sophia recreational facility more than 50% complete

One section of the bleachers and open-view deck under construction

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ork on the construction of the $51 million multipurpose facility in Section C, Sophia, Greater Georgetown is moving apace.

The multipurpose recreational facility will include an open-view deck and bleachers with a wheelchair access ramp, a basketball court, along with solar floor lights and walkway lighting, and a play area with swings, see-saw, slide, and round climber.

Several existing recreational facilities in the area

will also be upgraded under the project that is being executed by the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA).

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal said that the works, which were being done by Doonauth Construction and Supplies, are approximately 55 per cent completed.

In a recent interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI), the Minister explained that while there were some delays as a result of the in-

clement weather, work on the project was progressing smoothly.

“The fencing is in progress and there is a delay on the actual ground itself because the materials are there, but because of the rainfall, we are unable to do some work, but the actual pavilion and the centre itself are nearing completion.

Physically, they have expended about $26 million so far,” he noted.

Minister Croal said that the project aimed to provide a safe space for the residents of Sophia, especially children, the elderly, and persons living with disabilities, to play and learn. He added that the initiative would not only improve the aesthetics of one of the city’s largest communities but also aligned with the Government’s plan to create wholesome communities equipped with all the necessary amenities.

This project forms part of the Housing and Water Ministry’s Adequate Housing and Urban Accessibility Programme (AHUAP) which is funded by the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB).

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

Relentless Shami, Bumrah help India go 1-0 up with first win in Centurion

Jasprit Bumrah appealed successfully for the wicket of Dean Elgar

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ndia began the year by defending Sydney with their lives, and then breaching Fortress Gabba. At 12.50pm on the final day of Test cricket in the year, they finished conquering Centurion, South Africa's best venue, consigning the South Africans to only their third defeat in 27 Tests there.

India's complete and deep attack provided no respite to a resolute South African batting, and kept coming at them until the pitch yielded or the batters made a mistake. They beat South Africa by 113 runs despite a whole day's play being lost to rain and more showers being expected on the final day.

South Africa began the

day needing 211 runs with six wickets in hand, but the only realistic tussle was between India and time. Forecast suggested rain could interrupt the final session, and led by a cussed Dean Elgar, South Africa would have wanted to last till then, and then take it from there.

Elgar played one of his typical nuggety knocks, but eventually Jasprit Bumrah and the conditions proved to be too good for him.

In the 10th over of the day, even as runs came quickly as India hunted wickets, Bumrah bowled an unplayable delivery to Elgar. On the surface it was not spectacular, but it was a rare kind of ball, one you can't intend to

bowl.

Bowling around the wicket, Bumrah pitched short of a length, seam upright, but the ball hit a crack and cut back in. For a moment it seemed Elgar had that movement covered, but then the ball kept swinging further in. You have seen this swing after the ball bounces in England, but it happens on the way to the wicketkeeper, not in the short flight from the pitch of the ball to striking the batter.

Elgar tried to cover the movement, but ended up missing the ball, and was trapped lbw.

The next plan for South Africa was going to be a Quinton de Kock counterattack. This was a low-percentage approach, but the only sensible one, given the amount of time left in the day. The ball was more than 50 overs old, and the ask was a further 175 runs. The pitch might have slowed down a little, but it wasn't such that de Kock could block out for a draw. Not against this attack.

So, de Kock tried the counterattack, but one particular shot kept getting him in trouble: the dab, which also got him out in the first

Thompson-Herah named AIPS Female Athlete of 2021

Jamaica’s Elaine Thompson-Herah

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amaica's treble Tokyo Olympic Games gold medallist Elaine Thompson-Herah has been named the AIPS Best Female Athlete of 2021.

This follows a poll by the International Sports Press Association wherein a panel of 529 journalists from 114 countries voted for the champions of 2021.

Joining ThompsonHerah in receiving the top honour is Polish footballer Robert Lewandowski, who has been named the AIPS Best Male Athlete of 2021.

The former Manchester High School student, who was named the World Female Athlete of the Year at the World Athletics Awards 2021 earlier this month, retained her Olympic 100m and 200m titles in Tokyo, and added a third gold medal in the 4x100m relay. She also ran world-leading times of 10.54 and 21.53 over 100m and 200m respectively, moving to second on the world all-time lists for each discipline.

She topped the AIPS poll with 605 points, ahead of Spanish footballer Alexia

Putellas (490 points) and Venezuela's world triple jump record-holder and Olympic champion Yulimar Rojas (346 points).

Other athletics stars joining Thompson-Herah and Rojas in the top 10 are Kenya's Olympic 1500m champion Faith Kipyegon and Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands, who claimed 5000m and 10,000m titles in Tokyo, as well as 1500m bronze.

Joining Lewandowski in the top 10 for the men's award are Norway's Karsten Warholm, who was named the World Athletics Male Athlete of the Year, plus his fellow world record-holders and Olympic champions Mondo Duplantis of Sweden and Eliud Kipchoge of Kenya.

Thompson-Herah has also been named Athletics Weekly’s Female Athlete of the Year, NACAC Female Athlete of the Year, and Diamond League Athletics’ Most Consistent Athlete in women’s sprints for 2021.

(Sportsmax)

Mohammed Shami finished with eight wickets in the match

innings. Despite racing away to a quick 20, de Kock still didn't get any loose balls.

India were into their second string now - that of Mohammed Siraj and R Ashwin - but there was nothing available to hit. Two balls after being beaten on that late-cut, de Kock finally chopped Siraj on to make it 161 for 6.

With lunch not far away, Virat Kohli asked Mohammed Shami for one more effort, and his seamer delivered the allrounder Wiaan Mulder. This ball was a thing of minimalistic beauty. The seam of the 60-overold ball was bolt upright, it landed on a length just outside off, making the batter play the angle, and then left him ever so slightly, taking

an edge so thin that the seam remained proud and upright till the time the ball landed in the wicketkeeper's gloves.

South Africa survived till

lunch, but post that interval, the end was swift, taking only two overs and bringing two bonus wickets for Ashwin. (ESPNcricinfo)

SCOREBOARD SOUTH AFRICA 2ND INNINGS (TARGET: 305 RUNS) Aiden Markram b Mohammed Shami 1 Dean Elgar (c) lbw b Bumrah 77 Keegan Petersen c †Pant b Mohammed Siraj 17 Rassie van der Dussen b Bumrah 11 Keshav Maharaj b Bumrah 8 Temba Bavuma not out 35 Quinton de Kock † b Mohammed Siraj 21 Wiaan Mulder c †Pant b Mohammed Shami 1 Marco Jansen c †Pant b Mohammed Shami 13 Kagiso Rabada c Mohammed Shami b Ashwin

0

Lungi Ngidi c Pujara b Ashwin 0 Extras (lb 2, nb 5) 7 TOTAL (68 Ov, RR: 2.80) 191 Fall of wickets: 1-1 (Aiden Markram, 1.3 ov), 2-34 (Keegan Petersen, 14.1 ov), 3-74 (Rassie van der Dussen, 36.4 ov), 4-94 (Keshav Maharaj, 40.5 ov), 5-130 (Dean Elgar, 50.5 ov), 6-161 (Quinton de Kock, 59.3 ov), 7-164 (Wiaan Mulder, 60.2 ov), 8-190 (Marco Jansen, 66.5 ov), 9-191 (Kagiso Rabada, 67.5 ov), 10-191 (Lungi Ngidi, 67.6 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Jasprit Bumrah 19-4-50-3 Mohammed Shami 17-3-63-3 Mohammed Siraj 18-5-47-2 Shardul Thakur 5-0-11-0 Ravichandran Ashwin 9-2-18-2

NBA Roundup...

Ja Morant scores 41 points as Grizzlies beat Lakers

LeBron James said Ja Morant (centre) was "spectacular" for Memphis Grizzlies

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a Morant scored 41 points as the Memphis Grizzlies came from behind to beat the Los Angeles Lakers and record a third straight win.

Morant made a career-high six three-pointers in a 104-99 victory.

LeBron James scored 37

points for the Lakers, while Russell Westbrook added a triple-double with 16 points, 10 rebounds and 12 assists.

But the Grizzlies - inspired by 22-year-old Morant - fought back from a 14-point deficit in the third-quarter.

Lakers coach David

Fizdale, standing in for head coach Frank Vogel at the FedExForum in Memphis, described Morant, who scored 40 points against the Lakers in October, as a "true superstar".

It was a sixth defeat in seven games for the Lakers, after they ended a five-game losing run against Houston Rockets last time out.

Elsewhere, the Phoenix Suns beat the Oklahoma City Thunder 115-97 to move level with the Golden State Warriors at the top of the Western Conference.

Devin Booker scored 38 points as the Suns matched the Warriors' record of 27-7, becoming the seventh-youngest player to reach 10,000 career points.

(BBC Sport)

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

23

Fruitful year for BCB despite COVID-19 pandemic - hundreds of events/programmes successfully completed

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he Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) under the leadership of President Hilbert Foster has described 2021 as very successfully despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The BCB has forged ahead with a comprehensive developmental vision for the county, while at the same time observing all the required Government of Guyana COVID-19 regulations.

BCB President Hilbert Foster has said 2021 can be described as the most successful year of his four-year term, despite the first three years being very successful as well. The vibrant board was able to run off 19 finals during a two-month period between February and March 2021, before

the COVID situation forced a suspension of the season once again.

The board played off ten grassroots tournaments across the county: at Bush Lot, Kennard, Whim, Port Mourant, Chesney, Fyrish, Cumberland, Canje, Edinburgh, No 19 Kendall’s Union, and Bush Lot United. Other tournaments completed included the Let’s Bet Sport Countywide 20/20, Elizabeth Styles under-21, Lewison under-15, and Nand Persaud females and three under-19 internal zone tournaments in West Berbice, New Amsterdam/Canje, and Upper Corentyne respectively.

Eight tournaments remain to be completed due to the

Minister Vickram Bharrat handing over educational grants

Minister Susan Rodrigues being honoured by BCB Tenelec Founder Bobby Deonarine handing over sponsorship to BCB

suspension of the season, and they include the Banks Beer two days, NBS 40 Overs, Minister Mustapha under-15, and Price is Right 20/20 on the Upper Corentyne.

Among the main achievements for 2021 were the donation of 26 grass cutters across the county under a ground enhancement programme, obtaining covers worth $324,000 for West Berbice, giving 20 catching cribs to youth teams, producing cricket law books, providing cricket gear and uniforms, among other things.

Millions of items of gear were donated under the Clayton Lambert Trust Fund, Basil Butcher Trust Fund, Shimron and Nirvani

Survival, DeVeira Goalkeeping Academy provide enticing Super-16 prizes

Director of the Eon DeVeira Goalkeeping Academy, Eon DeViera (right), handing over the prizes to GFF President Wayne Forde

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he tournaments are now in the business end, and many business entities are continuing to show their support for the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF’s) line of yearend events, more so the Men’s Super-16 Cup. On Thursday, Survival Supermarket materialised their support with a one-of-a-kind and convenient prize. The prize will entail Survival awarding a voucher to a lucky player so that they can shop at the Supermarket free of cost for six months. The price tag attached to the shopping voucher is undisclosed.

“We are always grateful to Survival because they’ve been on board throughout the years, and as soon as we reached out to them, the General Managers, they called us and said they are happy to be onboard because this is their give-back period also,” Kashif Muhammad said in brief remarks during the simple presentation ceremony held at the entity’s Vlissengen Road location.

“We’re very happy about it, because it’s a unique prize and it’s a very special prize. We think it’s going to go far.”

He concluded, “We are very thankful, on behalf of the Guyana Football Federation

Survival’s Mark De Freitas making the presentation to Kashif Muhammad in the presence of Chitra Ramjit, Esther James and Vishnauth Arjune

(GFF) and the Kashif and Shanghai Organization. We want to thank Survival for their support in this year’s Super-16 football championship.”

DeViera’s Goalkeeping award

Still a young and fledgling entity, the Eon DeViera Goalkeeping Academy Inc. has still seen it as part of their responsibility to encourage and motivate goalkeepers aiming to be the best they can be.

To this end, the Eon DeViera Goalkeeping Academy Inc. has committed to sponsoring the respective Best Goalkeeper prizes for the GFF-K&S Super 16 Cup and the Women’s Super-16 Festival, the latter being played for the first time ever.

Director of the Eon DeViera Goalkeeping Academy Inc., a former National player and current National Coach, commented: “We are committed to the development of all Goalkeepers in Guyana.

We understand the importance of the Goalkeepers in football, and would like to create an enthusiasm for this position.”

DeViera posited that his Academy has been working to create that mindset in the specialised position ever since 2018.

“We have contributed, and would continue to contribute, to the GFF-K&S year-end

tournament, and we are pleased to be associated with them. This year, we would be sponsoring the Best Goalkeepers prizes for both the Men’s and Women’s Super-16 tournaments.”

He revealed that the player winning this prize in the Men’s version of the competition would be receiving a trophy and cash, while the Female winner would be rewarded with a trophy and three months’ supply of Bliss by Blu Hair Cream, which is the official sponsor of the Eon DeViera Goalkeeping Academy Inc. Accepting the sponsorship packages from DeViera was President of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), Wayne Forde, who, whilst thanking him for his benevolence, complimented the Academy for partnering with the organisers.

“On behalf of the respective organisers, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Eon DeViera Goalkeeping Academy Inc. for being a part of both competitions, in a tangible way. I am sure the goalkeepers would be taking noted of the prizes and go all out to capture the eyes of the adjudicators in order to win the prize in each tournament.

“We look forward to your continued support, and wish the Academy the very best for years to come.”

Hetmyer Trust Fund, and the Vitality Inc programmes. Clubs in Berbice benefited from over two million dollars’ worth of cricket balls, scorebooks and trophies among other things, as the board strove to assist as much as possible.

The BCB’s impressive coaching programme has been expanded, with coaches visiting several clubs under the Dr Tulsi Dyal Singh programme, while several mini academies and special coaching clinics being organised to benefit hundreds of youths.

The BCB also created history during the year when it published its own coaching manual, and also hosted four social skills sessions with funding from Patron Vickram Bharrat to train over one hundred and forty youths in basic social skills.

A total of more than 300 youths received educational grants to assist them to further their education, while 140 youths received bicycles to attend school/practice sessions.

Hundreds of other youths benefited from donations of school bags, educational materials and uniforms under an aggressive Say Yes to Education programme.

Seven outstanding CSEC students were honoured with a financial grant after being successful at their exams, while the BCB also hosted its annual Mother and Father of the Year Awards programme.

Asheik and Sons donated 70 inter county caps, while the

board handed out, for the first time, financial subventions to the West Berbice, Upper Corentyne, Berbice River and Umpires Associations. A 32-page pictorial review booklet was also published, along with thousands of COVID-19 and cricket development posters.

One thousand Say Yes to COVID Vaccination stickers were also distributed across the county. Another one thousand more copies of the BCB Youth information booklet were also published. Among the other programmes hosted during the year were Tribute to Heroes, Tribute to Retired

assistant Ruthel Henry. The home is about seventy-five percent completed, and is being funded by the Vitality Inc Group of Companies.

Together with the RHTY&SC, the board has donated a million dollars’ worth of hampers to families for Xmas and COVID-19.

The BCB, in 2021, also obtained a sponsorship to assist umpires to be better uniformed with polo shirts and caps from the New Marketing Corporation.

Dhanesh Chaltar was honoured as the BCB Father of the Year, while Bibi Shaw copped the Mother of the Year award.

The board also hosted an

Rose Hall Town’s Under–21 team – winner of the BCB Under–21 tournament

Cricketers, Tribute to Umpires, and the Berbice Hall of Hall for Administrators.

Ministers Collin Croal and Susan Rodrigues were among the persons honoured under the Tribute to Heroes programme.

The compassionate board handed out over 1000 flood relief hampers with support from Shimron and Nirvani Hetmyer.

The board along with the RHTY&SC, is also spearheading the construction of a multimillion-dollar home for its office

Grass cutters were distributed to clubs

under-15 team from the New York area, while Foster stated that numerous former players from overseas came on board to support the development of the game. They include Clayton Lambert, Ray Joseph, Leslie Lambert and Narsing Deonarine, among others.

Foster stated that the success of the BCB lies in the unity among his executives, and the leadership it provides. Foster hailed the contribution of the board’s numerous donors, especially Brian Ramphal. Dr Puran Singh, Dr Tulsi Dyal Singh, Dave Narine, Shimron Hetmyer and his wife Nirvanie, Tenelec Inc, Vitality Inc, Ministry of Agriculture, among others. Special mention was also made of the national media for their cooperation, the Umpires Association, and the Guyana Cricket Board which provided the BCB with a financial subvention for the first time in 13 years.

GCB ups tempo for CWI Regional 4-Day readiness

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he Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), in keeping with its promise to play national matches within the three counties, as against the centralised location of Demerara, has scheduled two of the three matches in the GCB Best of the Best Redball 4-Day Tournament.

The tournament would involve a pool of earmarked players participating in competitive matches, with the initial match at least being played ahead of the selection of the first national team to participate in the CWI Regional 4-Day Tournament in 2022.

GCB President Bissoondyal Singh opined that though it may appear that the inclement weather has necessitated

the need for use of suitable venues outside of Demerara, the consideration to return inter-county, national trials and practice matches to other counties is keeping with the strategic plans of the GCB. President Singh also said, “We are happy to announce that, despite our challenges, which have seemingly emanated from previous franchise arrangements, the GCB is going ahead with its planned programmes. Although our funds are limited, we intend to create the competitive environment necessary to provide the players with optimal opportunities for game readiness and match form; and the national 4 Day team with the best chances of

winning the CWI Regional 4 Day Tournament 2022.

“The first two matches are scheduled for the Albion Community Centre ground, Berbice, and given the need to have cricket played throughout the counties, the second match scheduled for Albion is subject to change based on weather conditions, while the third and final match is being arranged for the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.”

The dates for the three GCB Best of the Best Redball 4-Day Tournament are January 5-8, 2022, January 12-15, 2022 and January 18-21, 2022. The two teams for the first match will be announced no later than January 3, 2022.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

Sport is no longer our game, it’s our business

Western Tigers, GDF heading to Super-16 final

It was a hard-fought battle between GDF and Den Amstel

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A glimpse of Western Tigers and GPF in action

t was football at its most electrifying self at the Leonora Track and Field Facility on Wednesday night, as Western Tigers and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) pulled off steals to make their way into the GFF-K&S year-end final.

Driven by an animated crowd, some of the best post-pandemic football that Guyana has to offer was on show at the West Coast Demerara venue in two blistering contests that quite literally weren’t over until the fat lady sang.

Western Tigers were tasked with taking on the Guyana Police Force (GPF) in semifinal one, and won 2-1

by way of a come-from-behind victory.

Equally matched in talent and tactics, the Tigers and Officers were deadlocked at half time, giving spectators the idea that they were in for a long one. However, Police’s Jermin Junor finally broke the lock in the 65th, but Western’s failure to reply instantaneously allowed the Policemen to get too comfortable with their feel-safe goal.

Western couldn’t seem to find the equaliser until the 85th, when a freekick conversion handed William Europe and the team their first goal.

In lightning speed, Trayon Bobb found the back of the net just two minutes later to

give Western the lead in the dying minutes of the game.

Try as they may, Police couldn’t find the equalizer, and had to settle for the loss.

“I think it’s a game that we dominated, and I knew we dominated the game, no doubt. Coach Dover and his staff are a very good team, and I think tactically they were good, but I think we did not take our chances. Thank God we came out victorious,” Western Tigers’ Head Coach Charles Pollard shared in giving an assessment of the game.

He went on to add, “We were down, I was disappointed, but I was still confident we have very good players

who could play the game.”

Just a few villages away from the venue, Den Amstel, was the better fan-supported team, but GDF’s resilience eventually saw them through. After a handful of chances for GDF, the soldiers saw the first successful strike in the 45th after a

gruelling first half. An initial shot bounced off the top bar, but GDF’s Chris Macey was perfectly positioned to tuck the rebounding ball back into the goal for their first.

In the second, Den Amstel emulated Western’s backto-back scoring with two goals from Gideon Payne.

Taking an assist from Jamal Pereira, Payne headed the ball into the goal for the first in the 51st, and followed up with a strike in the 59th.

However, what Den Amstel couldn’t imagine was Ian Dooker pulling off a shocker to level the scores for GDF in the 87th, at least three more minutes before they (Den Amstel) could have been declared winners.

A dismal extra time meant the teams would have to shoot from the penalty mark to decide a winner. As irony would have it, the soldiers were better shooters than their opponents, sealing the win by a 3-1 margin.

The final is scheduled for the same venue on Saturday, January, 1.

(Jemima Holmes)

No fans allowed to attend Gayle’s T20 ‘retirement’ match A grand send-off for legendary Windies T20 star Chris Gayle will be played in front of an empty Sabina Park, as the Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA) was not granted permission by the Jamaican Government to allow spectators for the event.

With the recent surge in coronavirus infections, and particularly with the threat posed by the new Omicron strain, the Government, under the Disaster Risk Management Act, has continued to restrict gatherings.

Gayle, the leading run-scorer in the history of T20 cricket, and widely regarded as one of the for-

mat’s greatest players, was widely expected to retire following the team’s disappointing showing at this year’s T20 World Cup. However, following the conclusion of the tournament, the player announced that it was possible that he would feature in one more match, which would serve as a farewell event.

A few weeks ago, Cricket West Indies (CWI) confirmed that the player would be a part of the T20 squad for the upcoming match against Ireland at Sabina Park. As such, CWI and the JCA were hoping to have fans present for the event. Gayle has been part of two World Cup-winning teams for the West Indies. (Sportsmax)

Chris Gayle

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