Guyana Times -- Friday, January 21, 2022

Single mother, daughter graduating from UG

P15

…mother says wanted to “lift” herself from poverty to “make a bigger impact on society” Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 4896

THE BEACON OF TRUTH FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022

President discusses energy, infrastructure, trade issues with Surinamese, Brazilian counterparts Page 16

PRICE

$100 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Banks DIH taxed profit climbs to $6.7B P14 in 2021

Youths plead not guilty to fatally stabbing schoolboy in 2017 P9

...President Bolsonaro to visit Georgetown today President Dr Irfaan Ali (right), along with Suriname President Chandrikapersad Santokhi and Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro (left), in Paramaribo on Thursday

Guyana looks forward to greater ties with Barbados – President Ali

…as Mottley re-elected PM in landslide victory Page 3&18

Laparkan fire GOGEC asks Caricom is act of arson to suspend its – Fire Chief recognition of CPSO …as delegation meets with SG to seek redress Attack on Guyana's Local Content Act See story on page 7

Page 16

'Guyana-registered vessel' seized Page in Senegal with US$5M 13 in ammunition …vessel not in local ships' registry – MARAD

9-year-old boy, among 3 new COVID-19 deaths Page 10

Guyana’s P15 agri sector can generate revenues similar to oil industry – Mustapha Unions P12 withdraw case challenging David Grangerissued COVID-19 measures …as Ali-led Govt put appropriate measures to manage pandemic

CH&PA extends application deadline for core homes, home improvement subsidy P14

2

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

3

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

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

Friday, Jan 21 – 04:00h – 05:30h and Saturday, Jan 22 – 04:00h – 05:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Friday, Jan 21 – 06:30h – 08:00h and Saturday, Jan 22– 07:00h – 08:30h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY There will be thundery showers during the day.

Expect light rain showers at night. Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to North North-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.47 metres.

High Tide: 06:41h and 18:56h reaching maximum heights of 2.52 metres and 2.62 metres.

Low Tide: 12:29h reaching a minimum height of 0.68 metre.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 19, 2022

LOTTERY NUMBERS C

01 10 11

12 13 21

FREE TICKET

18 Bonus Ball

THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022

DAILY MILLIONS

08 10 21 23 26 LUCKY 3

2

1

4

7

Afternoon Draw

7

9

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

03 05 09 11 14 18 19 SUPER

PAY DAY

PAY DAY

FRIDAY, JANUARY 14, 2022

05 07 11 15 17 13

02 03 05 10 11

9

9 Afternoon Draw

3X Afternoon Draw

5

3 Evening Draw

3X 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

$88.38/barrel

Rough Rice

$266.04/ton

+0.35

London Sugar

$510.10/ton

+0.20

Live Spot Gold

-0.07

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1837.40

$1838.40

Low/High Change

$1836.00 -2.00

$1848.80 -0.11%

Guyana looks forward to greater ties with Barbados – President Ali …as Mottley re-elected PM in landslide victory

B

arbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley has stormed to victory and her second term in office in the Barbadian General Elections, prompting congratulations from Guyana's President, Dr Irfaan Ali. Barbadian voters bought into the philosophy that they are “safer with Mia” and re-elected the ruling Barbados Labour Party (BLP) into Government.

The BLP, led by Prime Minister Mia Mottley, was elected in its second consecutive clean sweep of the 30 seats in Parliament.

In a letter to the victorious PM, President Ali explained that her re-election provides an opportunity to concretise the plans that they have discussed to improve cooperation between Guyana and Barbados.

"I look forward as well, to our continued collaboration at the regional level, as we endeavour to advance our integration process and to secure the benefits that our people deserve," President Ali said in his correspondence.

Meanwhile, the People's National Congress Reform (PNCR) sent out a statement congratulating Mottley on her victory.

According to the PNCR, which is led by Aubrey Norton, they have "productive association" with the BLP. "The mandate you have received from the people of Barbados is a clear indication that you are in touch with the people and your policies have redounded to the benefit of the people," PNCR said in their statement.

"The PNCR has long enjoyed a productive association with the BLP and we are therefore confident that this relationship will be strengthened as we both work for the betterment of our peoples and the improvement of the Caribbean Community."

The results showed that the BLP won all the seats in the snap elections, which Prime Minister Mottley called 18 months ahead of the constitutional deadline. This makes the BLP only the second political party in the Caribbean to sweep all the seats in an election on consecutive occasions.

The only other time that was achieved was in Grenada when Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell led his New National Party (NNP) to victory, winning all 15 parliamentary seats in 2018.

Mottley ended up winning seven out of eight victories in the St Michael North East constituency, easily defeating the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) candidate, Damien Griffith by a margin of 3216 to 476. Roy Turney of

Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley with President Dr Irfaan Ali

the BFP polled 48 votes.

Mottley has achieved mass global recognition especially for her work highlighting the threat from rising sea levels to small islands around the world,

having won the United Nations’ (UN) highest environmental honour for her work.

Mottley also played a critical role in defending democracy in Guyana during

the 2020 elections. PM Mottley brokered an agreement with then President David Granger and then Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, to have a high-level observer mission sent to Guyana to observe the national recount of the ballots of the March 2 General and Regional Elections.

The team – comprising Deputy Supervisor of Elections of St Vincent and the Grenadines, Sylvester King; Senior Lecturer in the Department of Government at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Cynthia Barrow-Giles; and Commissioner of the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission, John Jarvis – observed the recount of the votes and compiled a report attesting to the veracity of the elections and recount results.

(G3)

4

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022

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

O

Upward mobility

ne of the best ways by which individuals can be empowered is by an appropriate education and creation of empowerment programmes to enable equitable opportunities for upward mobility for every citizen.

Yet, disadvantaged women and youths proliferate, not only in Guyana, but the Caribbean and further afield as well.

Societies in general are veering away from male domination in work places, and Government and the Private Sector are determined to provide equal opportunities for employees, regardless of gender.

The issue of women and their role in development has always been a topic of interest, and debates have centred around the challenges women face in getting access to the same opportunities as men; and, in a general sense, programmes and policies that could be implemented to ensure their economic and social advancement.

Women, over the years, have made tremendous progress, not only in terms of their own advancement, but by playing key roles in the development of their own communities, and, by extension, allowing other women opportunities to develop themselves. However, many challenges remain, and these must be tackled to ensure that women have access to the opportunities and resources needed to allow them to lead more productive and fulfilling lives.

However, women – the child-bearers and primary childcarers – are disadvantaged by domestic responsibilities, and many men abdicate their responsibilities in parenting and being equal partners in the home.

There is a dire need for men to create behavioural change in their domestic and child-rearing engagements. The accrued benefits to the entire family would be manifold, and the satisfaction and happiness of family togetherness would redound to the wellbeing of everyone, not least the children.

If they grow up in an environment of caring and sharing, most likely they would become rounded adults, and incidents of juvenile delinquency would be reduced. Most of the ills in society are caused by delinquent fathers and spouses.

Despite many attempts by successive Governments to empower/educate women and youths in diverse ways, there are still great numbers of women with leadership skills and business acumen who are constrained by diverse circumstances from optimising their potential for wealth and job creation.

Some years ago, under the administration of former President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, the Social Protection Ministry, in collaboration with the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI), launched the “Women of Worth” (WOW) loan programme, which helped single-parent women start and/ or expand their businesses. This initiative was driven by then subject Minister Priya Manickchand.

Through initiatives like Women of Worth, Government, in partnership with institutions like GBTI, has proven that providing enabling mechanisms can make a tangible impact on the lives of vulnerable women, and consequently their children. By removing financial obstacles, the partnership with GBTI helped women realise their true potential through building businesses.

Through the WoW initiative, women used their acumen to grow local communities, build wealth, and ultimately contribute to making Guyana better as a whole.

Before their advent into politics in then British Guiana, local women were treated as being of less worth by the colonial overlords. Women could not work in the Public Service after marriage, and they certainly could not vote, among a multiplicity of human/women’s rights constraints.

Over the years, intrepid women fought for equality, and after much struggle and countless engagements at various fora, women were permitted greater freedoms in the socio-political dynamics of the nation. Today, women proliferate in leadership roles in every sphere of activity in the nation.

One of the most pressing needs for working mothers is the provision of safe childcare facilities in communities and workplaces. There are innumerable retired nurses and teachers who would certainly happily accept employment in such facilities.

The President Irfaan Ali Administration has been off to a great start in addressing pressing social issues, and hopefully, projects slated to empower women in the society are yet to unfold.

Police Inspector Boyce assisting an elderly citizen while on duty at Houston, East Bank Demerara (GPF photo)

COVID-19 vs Carnival I

n countries with a functional two-party system, there is cooperation in times of national crisis. In the United States of America, Democrats and Republicans joined against Al Qaeda after the 9/11 attacks. In Britain, the opposing Labour and Conservative parties worked together in helping to defeat Hitler in World War 2. In Ireland, political parties the Fianna Fail and Fine Gael agreed to enter discussion for the first time ever regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19).

In Grenada, representatives of the two main political parties held discussion on fostering greater collaboration addressing the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on country and its people.

Unfortunately, in Trinidad and Tobago, that cooperation does not exist in national emergencies. The Opposition must oppose on every issue formulated by the ruling party, the Government, in attempting to bring their demise. Why has there not been any consultation with Government and the Opposition?

The coronavirus – COVID-19 - is raging across the world, rampant in Trinidad and Tobago.

The present Government has presented at least four (4) different vaccines to the population, yet, after almost one year, less than 50% of the population is vaccinated. After the resounding loss of the Tobago House of Assembly Elections in early December 2021, opposition to a vaccinated so-

ciety is under threat from all quarters of society; antivaxxers have come out to play.

Mandatory vaccination has existed for decades in Trinidad and Tobago.

Permission for a child to enter primary school demands that a five-yearold be vaccinated with a battery of vaccines and their boosters, including Measles, Whooping Cough, Polio, Rubella etc. Refusal by parents/guardians to allow their toddlers to be vaccinated prohibits their entry to the public school system.

Online schooling, particularly for 5-to-11-yearolds, does not work, and is doing more damage than good. Absence from physical school is making them physically and mentally ill.

The idea that children sit for four to six hours is not plausible. In years gone by, we chastised parents for allowing children to watch many hours of television. Ever wondered why, within the last few years, the optical business has been flourishing.

The COVID-19 pandemic and its variant relatives have ravaged the earth with more than five (5) million deaths. Pandemic fa-

tigue, brain fog, has caused us, after nearly two (2) years, to be uncaring, no longer horrified, shocked by the death of love ones; it’s as though we have surrendered.

In 1972, Trinidad and Tobago was threatened by polio. Prime Minister Eric Williams took the drastic step of postponing Carnival. Protests were plenty. Dr. Williams declared Carnival postponed.

“Mas in May”.

Carnival originated directly from the Christian religion. Centuries ago, Italians of the Catholic Church began holding costume festivals/ parties before the onset of the Lenten Season. There is abstention of meat consumption, and this period was referred to as CARNEVALE. Carnevale began spreading throughout Catholic countries in Europe. When the European explorers began to Colonize the world, they brought the tradition of Carnevale with them.

Carnival, as it is known today, was introduced to Trinidad by French Settlers around 1783. The wealthy farmers/planters took part in fancy festivals, dancing the nights away.

Over the many hundreds

of years Trinidad Carnival has evolved, public opinion is divided for better or worse.

Indentured labourers from India began arriving in Trinidad in 1845, bringing with them their religion and culture. One of the anticipated days in Hinduism is Shiva Raatri.

Shiva Raatri is observed on the fourteenth day of the lunar month of Phalgun, in the dark half of the moon phase. In 2022, Shiva Raatri observance will be on Monday 28th February.

The Carnival period for 2022 is 28th February and 1st March, with Ash Wednesday being 2nd March, the first day of Lent starting approximately six (6) weeks of fasting and penance before Easter.

It is difficult to imagine two events with such marked contrast being close together. Carnival, an event over two days, appealing the nature of human beings, while Shiva Raatri appeals to the religious behaviour. It is a night celebration, this solemn event remembering Shiva with prayers, fasting and meditation over a twelve-hour period.

As the world struggles to respond to the coronavirus death around every corner, we are left to wonder, are our leaders in Trinidad and Tobago working together to defeat this common enemy?

Can we not now refer to the phase Survival of the Fittest (Darwinian evolutionary theory) now appropriately as “Survival of the Vaccinated”? (T&T Guardian)

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022

5

News

Discipline of MPs in Mace-grab scandal, appointments to constitutional commissions on parliamentary agenda …to be dealt with next Monday

G

overnance and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Gail Teixeira has revealed that among the things Parliament will deal with next Monday are the disciplining of Members of Parliament (MPs) involved in the infamous Mace grab and appointments to constitutional commissions.

Minister Teixeira spoke of the parliamentary agenda for the Monday, January 24 sitting, during an interview with State media. One of the issues she noted will be dealt with is how Parliament will discipline the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Members of Parliament who grabbed the Speaker's Mace on December 29, 2021, in an effort to disrupt the passage of the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Bill.

"We have a number of options open to us, we meaning the National Assembly based on the Standing Orders. The Speaker can call on a Minister of Government to call for the suspension of the members. The Speaker can also let the matter go to the Privileges Committee, which he chairs."

"And or the Government in its own right can go to the Speaker in the Assembly and ask members to go to the Privileges Committee.

So there are a lot of options.

On Monday one of those will definitely be invoked," Teixeira further explained.

Teixeira emphasized,

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Gail Teixeira

however, that any action taken by the Speaker does not preclude the Guyana Police Force from doing its own investigations and taking action against any MP, whether for assaulting parliamentary staff or the alleged damage done to the Parliament's control room on December 29.

During a debate on the NRF Bill at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Members from the APNU/ AFC coalition had dislodged the Mace from its position in front of the Speaker 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.

Speaker 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. He had noted that there would be repercussions for this gross misconduct.

Other issues

Another issue on the order paper to be dealt with is the Tissue Transplant Bill, which will pave the way for organ transplant to be legalised and managed in Guyana. According to Teixeira, a cultural shift will be required for Guyana when it comes to this type of legislation.

Also on the agenda are the appointments to the Ethnic Relations, Human Rights and Police Service Commission, all of which take precedence on the order paper before the Public Procurement Commission.

Teixeira was hopeful that these commissions could be dealt with before Budget

Opposition MPs as they grabbed the Mace during the December 29 sitting

2022, noting the important role they play.

"The issues are the secretariat is there to serve the commission. And where the commissions have expired, the secretariat does what the secretariat does. They take the (complaints), they have investigating officers who would then make a report that goes to the commission."

"But they don't have the power to make decisions, which is the mandate of the actual commission, the chair and commission. So they are running the day to day operation of the secretariat.

The PPC expired in October 2020. It has not functioned," Teixeira said.

Among the PPC’s key functions are, according to the Procurement Act, to “Monitor and review the functioning of all procurement systems to ensure that they are in accordance with law and such policy guidelines as may be determined by the National Assembly; promote awareness of the rules, procedures and special requirements of the procurement process among suppliers, constructors and public bodies; safeguard the national interest in public procurement matters, having due regard to any international obligations; monitor the performance of procurement bodes with respect to adherence to regu-

lations and efficiency in procuring goods and services and execution of works; approve of procedures for public procurement, disseminate rules and procedures for public procurement; and recommend modifications thereto to the public procurement entities.”

Five persons are so far tipped for appointment on the commission; Guyana Bar Association President and Attorney-at Law Pauline Chase; Financial Analyst Joel Bhagwandin; former National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) Chairman Berkley Wickham, Diana Rajkumar and Rajnarine Singh. (G3)

6

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022

Page

Foundation ◄

Lines of symmetry We often find symmetry in things around us.

Lines of symmetry can be vertical, horizontal or diagonal.

We say there is symmetry when the exact reflection or mirror image of a line, shape or object gets created.

The line of symmetry can be defined as the axis or imaginary line that passes through the centre of the shape or object and divides it into identical halves.

Here, for instance, if we fold the figure cut out exactly at the centre vertically, its halves will be congruent. The line of the fold is the line of symmetry.

The line of symmetry produces reflections that coincide. Here’s how shapes and objects can have multiple lines of symmetry.

I

n this fun and easy science experiment for kids, we’re going to take on a cork challenge and see if we can keep a cork centred in a glass of water and away from the edge.

Cork Glass Water Teaspoon

Materials:

Instructions:

Fill the glass nearly full with water.

Do your best to get the cork to float in the centre of the glass without touching the edge.

You can even blow on the cork to try and keep it centred.

Eventually, the cork will hit the side of the glass.

Now add water a teaspoon at a time and observe what happens.

How it works:

As you add small amounts of water to the glass, the surface tension will rise above the rim of the glass. This will create a slightly-rounded surface with the highest point being centred. The cork will float to the highest point and will stay centred allowing you to complete the cork challenge.

Figures or shapes that have exact resemblance to its other part, when divided into two or more equal parts are called symmetrical.

Make this a science project:

Try different items that float. Try adding dish soap to see if it changes the surface tension. Try different shaped glasses. (sciencefun.org)

Fun Facts

The shapes and objects that do not resemble each other when divided into two parts are called asymmetric.

• The line of symmetry is also called the mirror line or axis of symmetry.

• A circle has infinite lines of symmetry.

By Olive Senior

Birdshooting season the men make marriages with their guns My father’s house turns macho as from far the hunters gather All night long contentless women stir their brews: hot coffee chocolata, cerassie wrap pone and tie-leaf for tomorrow’s sport. Tonight the men drink white rum neat.

In darkness shouldering their packs, their guns, they leave We stand quietly on the doorstep shivering.

Little boys longing to grow up birdhunters too Little girls whispering: Fly Birds Fly.

Teacher's Tip “The purpose of an education is to replace an empty mind with an open one.” – Malcolm S Forbes

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

7

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Attack on Guyana Local Content Act

GOGEC asks Caricom to suspend its recognition of CPSO …as delegation meets with SG to seek redress

T

he Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC) is pushing for the Caribbean Community (Caricom) to suspend its recognition of the Caribbean Private Sector Organisation (CPSO), meeting with the Secretary General of Caricom, Carla Barnett, to voice its concerns.

The meeting was held at the Caricom Secretariat on Thursday. In an interview with this publication following the meeting, GOGEC President Manniram Prashad, a former Commerce Minister of Guyana, explained that questions remain over the establishment of CPSO and until they are answered, the organisation should not be recognised

by Caricom.

"We're not attacking Caricom… however, the CPSO appointment is flawed and we're asking them to correct it. The Secretary General admitted that not only Guyana, she's gotten complaints from other organisations outside of Guyana," Prashad said.

"So we asked her to do a couple of things. One, suspend the recognition of CPSO. We also asked to establish a body or com-

mittee to look at how this organisation was established. And I'm going to be writing all the Heads of State."

Prashad noted that when CPSO raised concerns that Guyana's own local content laws violate the Caribbean Single Market Economy (CSME), they labelled themselves as a Caricom affiliate.

According to Prashad, however, the Secretary General made it clear during their meeting that no affiliate was authorised to speak on behalf of Caricom.

"Any organisation has the right to make statements. However, when they use Caricom at the end of their statement to give themselves legitimacy as though they're supported by Caricom, (that's the problem). And the Secretary General said no, nobody can make statements on behalf of Caricom."

"And she accepts that I'll write all the Heads of State. So we want them to suspend recognition or they organise a forum where we can fix this thing properly. She was very cooperative and I want to congratulate her. She was very professional and we

felt very happy with our meeting," Prashad added.

Prashad was accompanied to his meeting with the Caricom Secretary General by former Private Sector Commission (PSC) Chairman Desmond Sears, Attorney-at-Law Sase Gunraj and Qualfon Country Director Luanna Persaud among others.

Earlier this month, a leaked email came to light detailing concerns of members of CPSO over Guyana’s recently-passed local content law and plans to reach out to the Guyana Government, and ultimately Caricom.

The main contention is that the law, which makes provisions for Guyanese persons and Guyanese businesses to benefit from the oil and gas sector at specified percentages, violates certain provisions of the Caricom Treaty.

The membership of the CPSO comprises Private Sector entities operating in the Caricom space, including micro, small and medium sized enterprises (MSMEs). The CPSO is currently being chaired by the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of a Trinidad-based conglomerate and among its Board of Directors is

The GOGEC delegation led by Manniram Prashad meeting with Caricom Secretary General Carla Barnett (centre)

Guyanese businessman Suresh Beharry. In the leaked email, it was indicated that the businessman would approach the Guyana Government on behalf of the CPSO. Beharry has since distanced himself from the matter.

According to a statement, the CPSO said it is “the most recently-accredited Associate Institution

of the Caribbean Community” and is to act as the “apex” institution for the private sector in Caricom, with a mandate to contribute to the full implementation of the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME).

However, the organisation’s posture on Guyana’s landmark local content law has already sparked

outrage among the various Private Sector bodies in Guyana as well as prominent business figures.

Criticism has come from figures such as Private Sector Commission (PSC) Chairman Paul Cheong and Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) President Timothy Tucker.

8 NEWS

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Strategic war moves... …in Europe NATO is a creature of the Cold War, when the Soviet Union and the USA, representing their competing ideologies of Communism and Capitalism, faced off for global hegemony after WWII. The war ended with them dividing Europe into “East and West” literally through Europe’s most powerful state, Germany. But the Cold War ended in 1989 with the fall of the Berlin Wall and the triumph of the USA and the West. So, why all the sabre-rattling between the USA/NATO and Russia, that’s threatening an apocalyptic “war break”?

While the Armageddon may appear to threaten only folks in Europe and the US, we all know that when those states sneeze, we catch a cold!! And when we examine the moves being made, we’ll see that this isn’t just a theoretical hypothesis. Basically, while the ideological Cold War might’ve ended, the logic of the older, eternal international competition between states took over. The first standoff was between the USSR and the US in 1962, over missiles which the former had placed in Cuba. That experience simply reinforced JFK’s decision to oust Jagan and the PPP from office with the 80-day strike in 1963!!

See the connection?

Anyhow, NATO – which everyone understands is a creature of the US – started to woo and absorb the excommunist states of Eastern Europe and the detritus of the USSR when the latter was shattered like humpy-dumpty.

The Russian rump drew the line on Crimea in 2014 when some informal agreement on the Balkans was broken by NATO. They invaded and annexed it!! So, what’s going on now? Another line’s being drawn over the Ukraine - which is the USSR’s largest European breakaway state.

Putin was a lowly KGB officer who disagreed when Russian President Boris Yeltsin allowed the Balkans to slip away, and he’s vowed this won’t happen to the Ukraine.

So, he’s massed more than 100,000 troops at the Ukraine border with the full complement of battle support and vows to invade if the West doesn’t back off. In the meantime, after the October 2004 Orange Revolution and its see-saw between Russian- and Western-friendly presidencies, Putin is sending a message that Russian regional security concerns must be respected.

More of interest to us is that the Ruskies also announced that if that doesn’t happen, they’ll rearm not only Cuba – but VENEZUELA!! They believe that with the US preoccupied in the Pacific with China, they wouldn’t want to pivot to their backyard!! And that’s the last thing we would want, won’t we? Can you imagine the sabres Maduro would be rattling across our western border if he gets more MIGs and stuff? The global security chess game is on.

We have skin in the game, so we’d better be informed.

…in the PNC Forbes Burnham was a pretty decent chess player at Queen’s - and it did help him in the manoeuvres during the Cold War struggles against Jagan. Your Eyewitness isn’t sure if his latest successor - Aubrey Norton - plays the game.

But he seems to be following Burnham’s moves from that same era to seize control of the PNC’s power base.

Nowadays folks seem to think Burnham was supreme in the party from the word go, but it wasn’t so. His PPP(B) had to coalesce with the coloured elites of the UDP, and they had their (snotty) biases. Burnham simply banished their leader John Carter diplomatically – literally - with foreign postings. He “controlled to a T” occupants in executive offices. Well, in the PNC leadership elections, Norton ran on a slate, and it was ON HIS COAT TAILS that all of the positions went to his followers. Excepting Chris Jones tying with one of them for the Vice-Chair.

Now Jones has “stepped aside” – and Norton reigns uber alles!! He thinks!!

...in APNU/AFC AFC Ramjattan’s move to have his ex-personal assistant replace APNU’s trained financial analyst nominee on the Procurement Commission isn’t strategic – just opportunistic horse trading.

If he can retain the 9 AFC MPs in Parliament, THAT would be strategic!!

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

NEWS

9

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Youths plead not guilty to fatally “Spin and Kill” for trial on stabbing schoolboy in 2017 Monday over Sophia murder

Murder accused Andy Demel Peters Dead: Brian Charles Yearwood

S

hannon Cox, 23, and 20-year-old Andy Damel Peters - the two men charged with the 2017 murder of a schoolboy - pleaded not guilty to the charge when they appeared at the Demerara High Court on Thursday.

They appeared in front of High Court Judge Simone Morris-Ramlall.

The indictment states that on April 29, 2017, in the county of Demerara, they murdered 17-year-old

Murder accused Shannon Cox

Brian Charles Yearwood.

Cox and Peters are being represented by Attorneysat-Law Latchmie Rahamat and Madan Kissoon, respectively, while the Senior State Counsel, Lisa Cave is leading the case for the prosecution.

Yearwood, formerly of Grove Public Road, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was stabbed once to the chest while attending a concert hosted by the Covent Garden Nursery

School in the school’s compound.

It was reported that the stabbing stemmed from an old grievance between the accused killers and Yearwood, who is a former student of the Covent Garden Secondary School.

A cop found the injured teen lying on the grass and rushed him to Diamond Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Reports are that the murder weapon was found at the home of one of the accused. (G1)

Dead: Jamal Munroe

Murder accused Trevis Archer

31-year-old Sophia, Greater Georgetown man known as “Spin and Kill” is on trial for the November 2017 murder of 24-year-old Jamal Munroe. Trevis Archer denied the charge when he appeared before Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall on Thursday.

Archer’s trial will commence on Monday at the High Court in Demerara.

He is being represented by Attorney-atLaw Latchmie Rahamat while Senior State Counsel Lisa Cave is appearing on behalf of the prosecution.

It is alleged that on the day in question, Munroe, a labourer of C Field

Sophia, was shot and killed following a prolonged rivalry with Archer and another man. Munroe, who sustained gunshot wounds to his legs, upper hand, and lower back, died while receiving treatment at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Following the shooting, the alleged killers escaped but were later captured.

The rivalry between the now dead man and the men reportedly started some time back following a reported gambling disagreement.

Munroe was previously charged with robbery under arms. (G1)

A

10 NEWS

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

9-year-old boy among 3 new COVID-19 deaths …815 cases in 24h

T

he number of COVID-19 deaths in Guyana has climbed to 1111 as the Health Ministry, on Thursday, reported three more deaths and 815 new cases.

The latest fatalities are a nine-year-old boy from Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne); a 60-year-old man from Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) whose vaccination status is unknown and a 75-year-old unvaccinated woman from Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo).

The lad and elderly man both died on January 18, while

the woman succumbed the previous day. The Ministry also reported that 815 new COVID-19 infections were detected from 2541 tests. The total number of confirmed cases is 54,736.

Of the new cases recorded on Thursday, 13 was detected in Region One (Barima-

Waini); 67 in Region Two (Pomeroon Supenaam); 186 in Region Three; 403 cases in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica); 15 in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice); 41 in Region Six; two each in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) and Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni); 45 cases in Region Nine and 41 cases in Region 10.

There are 16 persons in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 38 persons in institutional quarantine, 178 persons in institutional isolation, and 11,770 persons in home isolation. To date, some

41,661 persons have recovered from the deadly virus.

Guyana has conducted 483,784 COVID-19 tests thus far.

Meanwhile, on Thursday the World Health Organisation (WHO) reported 336,790,193 confirmed cases globally along with 5,560,718

deaths. The WHO also reported that in the Region of the Americas, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases has increased to 123,529,554 while the death toll stands at 2,456,283.

All Guyanese are reminded to observe the protocols of the COVID-19 Emergency Measures which are in effect until January 31, 2022.

This order, among other things, emphasises the need for correct and consistent use of a face mask when leaving your home, maintaining six feet physical distance from others, and the need for good

hand hygiene to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Anyone displaying any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19 or who needs any additional information, kindly contact the COVID-19 Hotline 231-1166, 226-7480 or 624-6674 immediately or visit www.health.gov.gy. (G1)

GUYANA COVID-19 DASHBOARD JANUARY 20, 2022 UPDATE

NUMBER OF NEW CASES

815

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL ISOLATION

178

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN HOME ISOLATION

11,770

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN COVID-19 ICU

16

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL QUARANTINE

38

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (FEMALES)

29,352

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (MALES)

25,384

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES IN GUYANA SINCE 2020

54,736

NUMBER OF RECOVERED CASES

41,661

TOTAL 1st DOSE VACCINATED FULLY IMMUNISED TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES SINCE MARCH 2020 REGION 1

1887

REGION 2

2084

REGION 3

7139

REGION 4

27,499

REGION 5

1994

REGION 6

4928

REGION 7

2234

REGION 8

673

REGION 9

3149

REGION 10

3149

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

418,333 305,194 1111

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.

11

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

12 NEWS

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Unions withdraw case challenging David Granger-issued COVID-19 measures …as Ali-led Govt put appropriate measures to manage pandemic

GTU General Secretary Coretta McDonald

GTUC General Lincoln Lewis

Secretary

GPSU Vice President Dawn Gardener

ow that the Irfaan Ali-led Government has put the Board of Central Health in charge of managing the COVID-19 pandemic, Attorney-at-Law

Darren Wade has withdrawn an application filed on behalf of several Unions challenging the COVID-19 Emergency Measures.

The case was filed by Dawn Gardener, Lincoln

Lewis, Coretta McDonald, Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU), and the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) against the Attorney

N

General Anil Nandlall, SC. The Unions had contended that former President David Granger exceeded his authority when he issued the Emergency Measures purportedly in accordance with Section 21 of the Public Health Ordinance.

The former Head of State, in issuing the measures, declared that COVID-19 is an infection, and directed the then Health Minister, Volda Lawrence to take all the necessary measures to control the spread of the disease. By delegating to the Health Ministry, the authority to create measures to curb the spread of

the pandemic, the Unions had argued that Granger violated legal principles in constitutional and administrative law which stipulate that delegated powers cannot be further delegated.

As such, the Unions argued that the former President’s actions

amounted to an unconstitutional delegation of his powers and an infringement of Article 111 of the Constitution of Guyana and ultimately sought an order of certiorari to quash the measures as being invalid and void of effect.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

NEWS

13

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

'Guyana-registered vessel' seized in Senegal with US$5M in ammunition …vessel not in local ships' registry – MARAD

S

enegal has seized three containers of ammunition from a Guyanaflagged cargo ship in the port of the capital Dakar, in a rare arms haul worth an estimated US$5 million.

In a statement seen by AFP on Tuesday, Senegal’s customs agency said it had searched a ship named

the Eolika/Eureka when it stopped to refuel, after it had made “inconsistent declarations”.

Customs agents in the West African country found three containers of ammunition aboard the Eolika, worth the equivalent of an estimated $5.2 million, the statement said.

The customs agency did not mention when the operation occurred.

The crew members — whom local media reported were Ukrainian — are currently being questioned. AFP was unable to independently confirm the nationality of the crew, however, a Senegal customs agency spokesman

Unions withdraw case challenging...

During a telephone interview, Wade explained that the Public Health (Coronavirus) Regulation published in the Official Gazette is now being issued by the Chairman of the Board of Central Health and not by the Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony as was being done previously.

“COVID-19 is now managed by the Board of Central Health which is prescribed by statute and not the Minister,” he said on Thursday.

Guyana’s most recent COVID-19 Emergency Measures were issued by the Chairman of the Board of Central Health, Dr Narine Singh, and President Irfaan Ali while the older measures were only signed by the Health Minister.

The Unions had asked the court to grant an interim injunction preventing the State from implementing the requirement that

public sector workers show proof of vaccination against COVID-19 or produce a negative PCR test result at their own expense.

The Unions had also sought an interim injunction requiring the State to bear the cost for regular testing for employees of the State until the determination of the substantive matter – the application challenging the constitutionality of the COVID-19 Emergency Measures.

None of the injunctions were granted.

In denying the injunctions, High Court Judge Fidela Corbin-Lincoln said that while the court is empowered to grant interlocutory injunctions against the State, the Unions failed to provide prima facie evidence - a requirement to restrain the enforcement of a law.

While the Unions submitted evidence of the chal-

lenges they suffered as a result of the implementation of the COVID-19 measures, particularly the vaccine and testing regulation implemented late last year, the Justice held there was no evidence of irreparable harm being suffered to warrant the grant of the interim injunctions.

would not confirm the information.

Eolika’s final destination is also unknown.

However, specialised website Vesselfinder showed that the vessel had stopped in northern Italy and Spain’s Canary Islands en route to Dakar.

Drugs are periodically found on vessels anchoring

FROM PAGE 12

“It would not be in the stability of the public to grant an interim injunction restraining the Government from implementing any future or even the existing vaccination measures when it is yet to determine whether or not [Granger] acted ultra vires,” Justice CorbinLincoln had ruled. (G1)

in the port of Dakar, an important trading hub on the Atlantic Ocean. However, arms hauls are rare.

In June 2021, Senegal’s navy seized eight tonnes of cannabis from a vessel off the coast of the country. (The Guardian) On Thursday evening, the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) said that it notes with concern the recent arrest/detention by the Senegalese customs of the motor vessel Eolika purportedly bearing Guyana registration. The vessel’s registration expired on December 10, 2021.

“MARAD understands that a search of the said vessel unearthed illegal arms and ammunition on board.

The vessel in question is not contained in the local ships' registry and it is believed

that registration documents were issued by International Maritime Safety Agency of Guyana (IMSAG), an entity with which the administration had severed all ties since 13th August, 2021,” MARAD said.

It added that it subsequently notified all regional, and international bodies and organisations of the effective termination of all arrangements with IMSAG, and advised of the veracity of registration certificates issued to vessels by IMSAG. As a result, several vessels have been detained in various ports for false registration documents.

“MARAD assures that it will continue to actively monitor this incident, and will spare no effort in protecting the image of the Guyana flag.”

14 NEWS

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Banks DIH taxed profit climbs to $6.7B in 2021

A

s businesses in Guyana continue to grapple with the negative impacts of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Banks DIH Limited has shown consistent sustained growth after recording a whopping $6.777 billion after tax profit in its 2021 financial year.

This, according to the company’s Chairman Clifford Reis in his latest report for the period ending September 30, 2021, reflects an increase of $1.506 billion or 28.6 per cent over the $5.271 billion reported at the end of 2020 financial year. Consequently, profit before tax also went up to $9.439 billion, representing a growth of $2.110 billion or 28.8 per cent when compared to the previous year.

Additionally, Banks revenue generation in 2021 also grew by 17.7 per cent to $35.858 billion.

Reis credited this improvement in the company’s performance to the increase of physical sales by six per cent, increased dollar sales turnover by 17.7 per cent, management of operational expenses and better yields derived from raw material utilisation.

Meanwhile, it was reported that the Banks DIH Group’s profit before tax similarly improved from $8.899 billion to $11.078 billion, that is, an increase of $2.179 billion or 24.5 per cent.

The Group’s profit after tax attributable to shareholders of the parent company was $7.170 billion compared to $5.666 billion in 2020, an increase of $1.504 billion or 26.5 per cent. The Group’s net asset value per share grew from $50.89 to $58.87 by 15.7 per cent.

Further, the Board of Directors has recommended a dividend proposal of $1.70 per share unit resulting in an

overall cost of $1.445 billion as compared with $1.147 billion in 2020, reflecting an increase of $298.0 million or 26 per cent.

The Chairman outlined in his reported that the 2021 financial year was plagued with challenges mainly resulting from the COVID-19 lockdown and restrictions which contributed to curtailed market conditions.

Despite this, however, he noted that the company continues to supply its customers with a range of quality beverages and food products and innovative strategies with the ultimate objective of remaining at the forefront of the highly competitive market.

“We were able to deliver products in a post-lockdown period by encouraging the creation of further customer connection by utilising our “Stay at Home message and Home Delivery Packs”. There were unavoidable increases in the cost of raw and packaging materials, spares and fuel as well as their availability due to the global supply chain issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The company was able to mitigate some of the effects of this issue as a result of the investment in upgraded plant and machinery to enable the extraction of better yields from raw materials used.”

Reis went on to say that the company’s growth and sustainability efforts shown in the past year was as a result of the engagement and empowering of its dedicated employees.

Operation enhancement

He further reported that during 2021, the Company continued to invest in new technology and other assets to sustain growth through upgrading its production capabilities, to achieve better oper-

ational efficiencies.

Among the capital projects completed last year were the upgrade of the malts packaging line to enhance the efficiencies of the bottling process.

Upgrades were also executed at the Soft Drinks Plant, the Rum and Winery operations, the Trisco Division and the Dairy Plant.

At the time of reporting, there were capital projects which were ongoing and are expected to be completed this year including the acquisition of lands at Vreed-en-Hoop and Bartica to facilitate the construction of two new Qik Serv Restaurants.

In addition, the Soft Drinks Plant Syrup Room and Blending Facility are being upgraded to facilitate the production of Minute Maid products under license from the Coca-Cola Company.

The Chairman further reported that Banks DIH Ltd continues to retain the top spot within the Emerging Market Segment of the Coca-

Cola Latin Centre Business Unit, QSI Scoring System, achieving the maximum score of 300 points for Product Quality and Safety.

Moreover, during 2021, the brewery was placed third in the League of Excellence in the Americas out of 14 breweries and eighth worldwide out of 49 breweries. The brewery also placed second in the Large Breweries category with regards to the League of Excellence rankings.

Citizens Bank Guyana Inc

Meanwhile, Citizens Bank Guyana Inc, a 51 per cent owned subsidiary of the company, saw its revenue increase to $3.949 billion at the end of the 2021 financial year when compared with $3.749 billion generated in 2020, an increase of $200 million or 5.3 per cent.

The bank’s profit after tax was $1.056 billion, representing a growth of $73.3 million or 7.5 per cent over the previous year.

Reis reported too that net interest income for Citizens Bank was $2.866 billion and the earnings per share was $17.74, while the total asset base was $82.7 billion. The bank’s loan assets also increased from $31.7 billion to $33.8 billion, an increase of 6.6 per cent or $2.1 billion.

With regards to another fully-owned subsidiary of the company – Banks Automotive and Services Inc, revenue generation was listed at $57.5 million for 2021. A $2.1 million profit before tax was reported.

In 2022, the new multi-story vehicle parking facility and corporate offices and show room of Banks Automotive and Services Inc will be completed.

Nevertheless, going forward in this new financial year, the Banks DIH Chairman anticipates the continued disruption of the global supply chain, noting that its consequences will impact everyone and not just in

Guyana. However, he is confident the company will once again overcome this. “…of the many lessons learnt from this experience, one stands out and bears being repeated. We must remain positive and committed to the words of our Mission Statement that we are committed to building on our traditions of excellence by providing quality products and services. We will remain committed to achieving those goals which are supported by the platforms of our core competencies. My fellow shareholders, you will recall that the Board of Directors approved last financial year a modification to the company’s business model. Our most recent addition to the Group, Banks Automotive and Services Inc, will be the division to lead in the development of our future solar power and automotive initiatives, to add value for shareholders and investors,” Reis asserted.

(G8)

CH&PA extends application deadline for core homes, home improvement subsidy

T

he Housing and Water Ministry’s Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) has extended the deadline for applications under its Adequate Housing and Urban Accessibility Programme (AHUAP) thus allowing for more deserving Guyanese families, especially from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) to benefit.

This was announced by Housing Minister Collin Croal on Thursday. He disclosed that the closing date for the submission of applications is now February 25.

The initial deadline for applications was set for February 7, however, the executing agency with the consent from the funding agency - the Inter-American Development Bank - has agreed to the extension.

Under the Core Home Support initiative, some 150 low-income families will receive a new 20x20 feet move-in ready two-bedroom concrete house, which is equipped with basic utilities such as water and electricity and can be expanded over time.

The home is built through the Ministry and beneficiaries are only required to make a contribution of $100,000. All applicants are required to possess ownership of the land, and it must be a land issued by the Ministry.

Meanwhile, under the Home Improvement Subsidy initiative, low-income families who are living in poor structures can benefit from $500,000 worth in building materials to carry out repairs or expansion to an existing property. This is not a loan and no repayment is necessary.

Some 2000 Home Improvement Subsidies have been earmarked under the programme, with 236 persons already approved.

According to Minister Croal, the extension was done as a result of low response especially at targeted communities on the East Coast of Demerara.

“To date, we have been receiving positive response from the communities but the majority has been from the West Bank of Demerara, so we want to give persons along the East

One of the core homes that have been constructed

Coast of Demerara who fall within the project boundary an opportunity to apply,” the Housing Minister stated.

Nevertheless, interested persons on the West Coast of Demerara are also being encouraged to apply for either programme.

The target area encompasses Westminster, Onderneeming, RechtDoor-Zee, Lust en Rust, and Parfaite Harmonie

Phase II on the West Bank of Demerara, Region Three.

In Region Four, it includes communities from Georgetown to Grove on the East Bank of Demerara; and from Georgetown to La Bonne Intention on the East Coast of Demerara.

Additionally, these 19 other communities are also being targeted: Bladen Hall South Squatting Area, Block 7 Pln Mon Repos (D'Jango Town),

Elizabeth Hall known as Pln Enterprise, Lusignan Block XXI, Lusignan Parcel 99 (Binkey Ally), Lusignan Tract A (Lusignan Pasture), Strathspey South 14B, Vigilance/Bladen Hall, Vigilance 14A/14B, Area B Lusignan (Grassfield), Enmore - (Haslington Block 20), Good Hope Area X, Good Hope Tract A (Phase 1), Haslington Block 18, Hope Area A, Mon Repos Block 8, Non Pareil Block

12, Non Pareil Section B and Vigilance Area X. Meanwhile, in a move to raise awareness and invite applications, the Ministry through its Community Development Department will be hosting a series of community outreaches over the coming days to the targeted communities.

The first outreach will be held this Saturday at the Mon Repos Market Tarmac, Lusignan Market Tarmac and Good Hope Secondary School, ECD. Interested persons can apply for the programme online at www.chpa.gov.gy.

Application forms are also available free of cost at the CHPA Headquarters, 41 Brickdam and United Nations Place, Stabroek, Georgetown; sub-office 237 Camp Street, Georgetown (next to St Margaret’s Primary School); Regional Housing Offices at Vreeden-Hoop, Region Three and all local authorities within the project boundaries.

All applications, along with the relevant documents, can only be returned to the sub-office at 237 Camp Street, Georgetown.

NEWS

15

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Single mother, daughter graduating from UG …mother says wanted to “lift” herself from poverty to “make a bigger impact on society”

I

t will be an extremely proud moment for 47-year-old Pamela Atwell and her 21–year-old daughter Deandra Daniels, who will both “walk” the University of Guyana’s virtual graduation stage come February 11, 2022, as they have successfully completed the requirements for a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Social Work and a Diploma in Communication, respectively.

As a single parent, Atwell shared with the University’s Public Relations team that she always wanted to achieve higher education.

The proud mother of one explained: “I always wanted to achieve higher education in order to “lift” myself out of poverty and make a bigger impact on society.”

The newly-minted qualified social worker praised the university for helping her to stand out as a professional since the goal of social work is to always be of help to persons in society.

Though Atwell stands proudly beside her daughter today, it was not without tremendous challenges, both for her and her daughter. "Finance was

Mom and daughter: Deandra Daniels (left) and her mother, Pamela Atwell

my biggest challenge while attending University. I completed my Diploma in social work many years ago while my daughter was in high school. I returned to campus in 2019 to acquire my Bachelor's and that's the same year my daughter started her studies in the area of Communication.

Being a single parent placed a financial burden on me since I had to ensure both of our tuitions were paid while also paying back a loan for my previous course. Coupled with that, I also have to pay a mortgage for my home and fulfil other financial obligations in my home. At

this juncture, my daughter is graduating with her Diploma while I am graduating with my Bachelor’s degree. Glory be to God,” the elated mother said.

When asked how she managed to deal with the challenges, Atwell replied; "I kept my eyes on the prize and used my motivational skills on myself. I knew that I had to be strong and steadfast. I listened to wholesome music and danced while at home and at my best friend's house."

As a mother and proud graduand of the University of Guyana, Atwell wishes to encourage current and pro-

spective students to pursue their dreams of acquiring higher education at UG. “At the end of your studies you have a chance to become a well-rounded individual irrespective of your major,” she urged.

Meanwhile, Atwell’s daughter, Deandra Daniels, who will be graduating with her Diploma in Communication Studies, reflected on the morals and values her mother had instilled in her. She noted that because of that, she knew that straight out of high school she had to further her education. Deandra is currently pursuing her BA in Communication Studies.

The young aspiring communication specialist expressed: “Being raised by a single mother, she has always instilled in me that I should aim for a career and not a job. The University of Guyana is where I would have to hone those skills.

My mother always told me it doesn't matter what it is I study but I should walk that stage one day, we didn’t allow anything to hold us back.”

When asked what was one of her most fond mo-

ments at UG, the enthusiastic graduand boldly reminisced on her self-defence classes. She reflected, “I joined the Female Empowerment Movement club in my first year and they taught us self-defence every Wednesday and Friday afternoon, Tai Chi with Sensei Rushana Wong, another student herself. They were really refreshing and gave me a sense of strength, both in body and mind.”

Additionally, she praised the University for grooming her to be bolder and outspoken, "I have definitely become bolder and outspoken (I always was actually) but my tongue is sharper with words and my brain thinks faster when a topic arises. Though I hate the group work at the University of Guyana it has helped with my understanding and patience with people and their personalities, mannerisms, sudden behavioural changes like family, friends, and significant others."

Unlike Deandra's mom who highlighted financial challenges as the main challenge she encountered during her studies at UG, Deandra had the challenge

of finding her true major and purpose at the University.

“When I enrolled into the University of Guyana in 2018, I was a Biology major, as I was a science student in high school. But a small part of me knew I was in a place where I ought not to be. I had the mind of a writer or creator or an artist, they call us the dreamers. I buried my true self deep down and continued pursuing a career in Biology. In year 2 week 1 as a Biology major, I went into my mother's room crying and telling her I can't do this anymore. I admitted to her that I had been thinking of changing my major to Communication Studies for a while now and her reply was, "I know". She had noticed that I was unhappy but was waiting for me to figure out who I truly am, so I was scolded for burying my true feelings, wasting money and time, then I switched my major and never looked back. Now we laugh about it,” the proud graduand stated.

(This article submitted by the University of Guyana is part of a series, which will be shining the spotlight on graduands)

Guyana’s agri sector can generate revenues similar to oil industry – Mustapha G

uyana could earn as much money from agriculture as it would from its oil and gas resources, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has said. He was at the time addressing farmers along the East Bank Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) corridor where he pointed out that while much is

to expand other subsectors. Among those is aquaculture. Shrimp – the ones which are harvested on the Corentyne and East Coast Berbice has a high demand in the diaspora. Referred to as the black shrimp, the shell creatures which only strive in areas where both fresh and saltwater meet, can carry a price of up to US$100 for a five-gal-

Shrimp can carry a price of up to US$100 for a five-gallon bucket when exported to the United States

being said about the revenue that Guyana has been receiving from oil, the Agriculture Ministry is seeking to make agriculture one of the main pillars of Guyana’s economy. Several initiatives are being implemented to ensure the country earns more from agriculture.

Significant investments are being made in producing new crops while efforts are actively ongoing

lon bucket when exported to North America. They need a certain amount of alkaline in the water to survive. And hence, the Corentyne and East Coast Berbice are the only places they are found in Guyana.

Currently, local production cannot satisfy the overseas market. Since taking up the mantle as Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha has been trying to increase the produc-

tion of black shrimp. The project is being done in two phases and according to the Agriculture Minister, 90 per cent of the first phase has been completed and production has significantly increased. “The immediate aim of that project was to increase production from 250,000 kilograms to 500,000 kilograms and we have already achieved that although we have not completed the project as yet.

We have completed 63 of the 70 established pounds.

We have another 7 to complete and that will end the first phase. In the second phase, we will be doing another 70 pounds and we will continue to work with those farmers. The farmers are seeing that in the rural communities this will create more jobs for them.”

He noted that there is now interest to build a processing plant for the shrimp. This will see the shrimp being sold less as a primary product and will add value to the product.

The processing of other food items is also one of the focuses of the Ministry.

Moreover, the Ministry is promoting agriculture in smarter ways and farmers are being encouraged to have greenhouses and also to focus on “high-value crops” such as carrots, cauliflower and broccoli.

Almost 70 ponds have been developed in Region Six to produce black shrimp

Imported

Since becoming Agriculture Minister in August 2020, over 150 shade houses have been built by that Ministry around the country to help farmers to produce their crops in a better way.

Additionally, inland prawn cultivation is to commence soon on the Upper East Bank Berbice. According to the Minister, 1000 acres will be used for the project which his Ministry is spearheading. Apart from that, the hotel industry, he explained, has been increasing its demand for those high-value crops.

“We have a ready market in Guyana and we are not making use of it,” he noted. However, there is also a need to consolidate the production of traditional crops. In addition to that, the Ministry is seeking to have farmers diversify and produce other non-traditional crops – things that will bring benefit to the entire country.

These are just some of the initiatives the Agriculture Minister believes will boost revenue and make the industry one of the economic pillars of the country and even earn as much as oil and gas.

“We want this economy to

build on various sectors.

Agriculture must be an important pillar, oil and gas must be an important pillar so that we have many pillars holding up this economy so it will be able to withstand shock and it cannot crash. While we are having oil and gas revenue and we anticipate that oil and gas revenue will be large, we must challenge ourselves for agriculture to compete with oil and gas so that we can bring revenue too like oil and gas. I know we can do that. We have the capacity to do that,” he said to thunderous applause. (G4)

16 NEWS President discusses energy, infrastructure, trade issues with Surinamese, Brazilian counterparts FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

…President Bolsonaro to visit Georgetown today

President Dr Irfaan Ali (right), along with Suriname President Chandrikapersad Santokhi and Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro (left), in Paramaribo on Thursday

P

resident Dr Irfaan Ali on Friday travelled to neighbouring Suriname for a high-level meeting with his colleague Heads of State, Surinamese President Chandrikapersad Santokhi and Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro.

The three leaders met for a working lunch at the Torarica Hotel in Paramaribo during which they discussed enhancing cooperation in a number of areas, including infrastructure, trade and energy.

Guyana, Suriname and Brazil are exploring the formation of an energy corridor and are also looking to collaborate in the oil and gas

sector.

According to the Office of the President’s Press and Publicity Unit, talks between the three neighbouring nations will be advanced at the ministerial level in the coming months.

During the working visit, President Ali was accompanied by Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha; Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd; Public Works Minister Juan Edghill; Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat and Head of GOInvest, Dr Peter Ramsaroop.

Meanwhile, President Bolsonaro and a team of officials from Brazil are expect-

ed to travel to Georgetown today for a special one-day visit with President Ali and his Cabinet Ministers.

Those discussions will centre on improving economic relations, energy and food security, telecommunications, agriculture, infrastructure integration and the development of a deep-water harbour in Guyana.

It was noted that since Guyana offers the shortest and quickest access to the Atlantic for significant parts of northern Brazil, a road connection linked to the deep-water port could also serve the interest of both countries.

Last week, the two Heads of State spoke via a teleconference about enhancing the partial scope agreement between Guyana and Brazil with the hope of bolstering trade. They also discussed the agenda for today’s high-level visit by President Bolsonaro.

During that conversation, President Ali indicated to his Brazilian counterpart that Guyana wants to have a very strong strategic partnership with the Portuguese-speaking nation.

“We have a number of important issues and opportunities for both Guyana and Brazil that I wanted to highlight even before our meeting, so our technical teams can start some work,” President Ali said in a missive from his Press and Publicity Unit.

The Head of State had pointed out that due to their geographical locations, Guyana and Brazil must make strong statements in linking their territories.

He noted that in addition to oil and gas, expanding opportunities in the other nonoil natural resources sector such as bauxite will create an opportunity for a direct link to northern Brazil and the Atlantic that can “create an excellent platform for us to develop an integrated project”.

As it relates to trade, currently, there is an existing partial scope agreement that aims to foster bilateral trade flows by the exchange

of tariff preferences between the two countries, cooperation on trade matters and increased participation of the Private Sector.

This, President Ali said, is currently under negotiation to be expanded since Guyana wants to increase its quota, especially as it relates to rice being exported to Brazil.

President Bolsonaro, via an interpreter, said that the agenda for discussion looks “very promising” and that he will ensure that technical staff from the relevant Ministries in Brazil travel for the State visit.

It is expected that the Linden to Lethem road connectivity will be a key link between Guyana and Brazil with the potential to boost trade.

The Guyana Government has been pushing to have the contract signed for the first phase of the US$190 million project which will see the construction and upgrading of 121 kilometres of road from Linden to Mabura Hill.

In December 2020, the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) had approved a US$112 million loan for the project, which is also being funded by a £50 million grant from the United Kingdom Government through the CDB-administered United Kingdom Caribbean Infrastructure Fund; and a contribution of US$12 million from the Government of Guyana.

Last October, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill disclosed that Government is “pushing heavily” to have the process move along. He noted that the prequalified contractors were evaluated and sent to the bank for final approval.

According to the Minister, once approval is given, the contractors will be invited to submit their financial proposals from which a company will be selected.

Meanwhile, after decades of talks, Guyana is finally moving apace with the construction of a US$130 million deep-water harbour in Berbice, Region Six (East Corentyne-Berbice).

Canadian-owned company CGX Energy Incorporated, which only recently started drilling for oil in the Corentyne Block offshore Guyana, is executing the project in the Berbice River.

CGX had disclosed last year that its subsidiary Grand Canal Industrial Estates Inc (GCIE) had been engaged in civil works related to the construction of the Berbice Deep Water Port (BDWP).

The construction of the port is being done on 30 acres of land on the eastern bank of the Berbice River, adjacent to Crab Island.

Only last month, President Ali commissioned the access bridge linking the port site to the eastern bank of the river at Palmyra, Berbice.

also destroyed while five were severely damaged and three others were slightly damaged.

Asked whether any suspect(s) or persons of interest have been identified, the Fire Chief explained that “any suspects will have to do with the Police.”

Asked whether the Police are aware of the GFS’ findings, he explained that the two organisations were conducting their operations in a “coordinated approach”.

“Police had their investi-

gations on the ground too so it was done simultaneously,” he noted.

When prompted for in-

formation about what led to the conclusion that the fire was maliciously set, the Fire Chief said he cannot divulge any further details on the case.

On Wednesday, Wickham told this publication that the fire investigation team was examining CCTV footage from the cameras located at the wharf at Lombard Street, Georgetown.

Laparkan Company Manager Bodhan Nipan had recently noted that the company is doing its best to make sure that business is not impeded and that affected customers’ needs and concerns are addressed.

Laparkan fire is act of arson – Fire Chief

Fire Chief (ag) Gregory Wickham

T

he Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has wrapped up its investigation into the fire which destroyed a bond at the Guyana National Industrial Company Incorporated (GNIC), Lombard Street, Georgetown, and it has been concluded that the inferno was an act of arson.

“We would have completed the investigation and the cause which we came up with is that the fire was maliciously set by person/persons un-

known,” Fire Chief (ag) Gregory Wickham said on Thursday.

The fire erupted just before midnight on January 16 and destroyed a two-storey wooden, concrete and steel bond which was used by Tropical Shipping Company and Laparkan Trading Company.

It was reported that Tropical Shipping Company sustained water damage and minor fire damage. Additionally, propane cylinders, a quantity

of barrels containing food stuff, clothing, household appliances and other items were destroyed.

On the other hand, Laparkan Trading suffered the loss of one Bobcat machine, a quantity of office furniture, gas cylinders, crates of energy drinks, three 40 feet containers containing electrical cables and flex hoses, three electrical transformers and three 40 feet refrigeration containers. In addition, eleven vehicles were

NEWS

17

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

40 semi-finalists to GPL, Wartsila close to identifying problem return to Puerto Rico with Garden of Eden Power Plant – Indar for Miss World Final T

T

Miss Jamaica World, Khalia Hall

he Miss World Organisation will be inviting 40 semi-finalists to Puerto Rico from March 13 to 18, 2022 to compete in the Miss World 2021 final.

The 40 semi-finalists will include 15 who were already elected as fast track winners along with 25 who were selected by the judges.

The 25 will be announced on the Miss World Website on Friday, January 21, 2022.

Khalia Hall is Jamaica’s representative in Miss World 70, and local franchise holdersWeston Haughton and Dahlia Harris are looking forward to the announcement.

“We know all the contestants must be very anxious to complete the event, especially since they were so close to crowning a winner. Inviting the semi-finalists is the best decision that the MWO could make. Will Jamaica be among

the 40? That’s our expectation!”

The franchise holders also had nothing but praise for reigning Miss World Toni-Ann Singh.

“Its been quite a historic journey for Toni-Ann. Wearing the crown comes with great responsibility and to have done that for over two years, with such grace, is quite an accomplishment.

We are so proud that she is our Jamaican Queen, and Miss World 70 is an opportunity for the world to show her just how grateful we are.” The Miss World Final was initially scheduled for December 16, 2021 but was postponed due to COVID-19 concerns.

The rescheduled 70th Miss World pageant will be held at Puerto Rico’s José Miguel Agrelot Coliseum.

(Jamaica Observer)

eams from the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) and Wartsila are working around the clock to find the root cause of the emergency shut down of the 46.5-megawatt power plant at Garden of Eden, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

Minister within the Public Works Ministry Deodat Indar said Thursday that the two teams are close to identifying the problem with the $10.8 billion power plant.

“As of this morning (Thursday), I was told they are [zoning] in on the problem, they have a good suspect of what the issue is and they are [zoning] in on that… They have not communicated to our people at GPL on a final and conclusive report that says ‘A or B’ what is the problem that caused the fuel to move into the exhaust system,” the minister stated.

He said a specialised engineer from Wartsila will be in the country soon to fur-

Minister within the Public Works Ministry, Deodat Indar

ther assess the problem, after which a report will be provided.

“They are still to provide that report, but as we speak right now, there are engineers on the ground.

Another specialised engineer is supposed to arrive in the country to assist in the process… once we find out what was the root cause of that problem, then we will have a schedule of the rec-

tification time because we will know if we would have to get parts flown in, or if we have the parts in country,” he said.

President Dr Irfaan Ali, after the incident, made it clear that Wartsila will be held accountable for the work they have done. “So, they have to fix it and they have to get it up and running,” he had said.

The President explained

that the Attorney General and GPL will be reviewing the contract signed with the company. Added to that, President Ali said once there are penalties included in the contract, they will be applied.

On January 14, GPL was was forced to shut down its power plant to undergo an emergency mechanical inspection at the facility.

Chief Executive Officer of GPL, Bharrat Dindyal had explained to reporters that the heavy fuel which is being used at the plant is getting into the exhaust system.

This prompted officials to shut down the five Wärtsilä generators that only started operating late last year.

“If we continue to operate, there is a chance that the fuel accumulates in the turbocharger, you could have a big explosion. You could destroy the engine, it could kill people in the vicinity so the decision was taken to immediately shut the plant down,” he had reasoned.

Carnival 2022 on in Trinidad, fetes not allowed

T

here will be a Trinidad and Tobago Carnival this year for persons who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 but there will be no fetes or parties, only concert-type shows, the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts has announced.

After months of consultations with stakeholders, the Ministry said in a statement on Wednesday evening that approval has been giv-

en for safe-zone events, including soca and calypso concerts; calypso tents; soca, calypso, extempo and chutney competitions; Steelband concerts; Carnival King and Queen shows; and Carnival theatre.

“These safe-zone type events will be limited to 50 per cent capacity, with controlled entry and exit points and sanitisation upon entry in accordance with the public health regulations.

“Following public health guidance and regulations, fetes, parties and similar type events by any other name will not be allowed on account of the nature of those activities and the risk they pose to the increased spread of the COVID-19 virus. While PCR testing of patrons was considered as a form of risk mitigation, it was not deemed realistic as the cost per test per patron would be uneconomical,” it said.

The Ministry said a Carnival Working Group meeting was held on Tuesday to determine the specific events that will be held and a calendar of events is being developed.

Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Arts Senator Randall Mitchell said the move to stage a limited Carnival represents a first step in restarting the events sector. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022

Regional

Barbados’s Mottley hails US charges 2nd man in plot to landslide victory for ruling party assassinate Haitian President Moise

T

B

arbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley on Thursday celebrated a landslide victory in the Caribbean nation’s first General Election since it became a republic last year by removing Britain’s queen as sovereign Head of State.

Mottley called the snap election in December, saying it would help promote unity as the Government battled the coronavirus pandemic, which has heavily affected the tourism-focused economy.

“We stand today on the morning of the 20th of January confident that the people have spoken with one voice - decisively, unanimously and clearly,” Mottley told cheering supporters at the headquarters of the Barbados Labour Party (BLP).

“We want to thank each and every one of the people of Barbados for the confidence that they continue to repose is us,” she said in the victory speech broadcast online.

The BLP won all 30 seats in the national legislature, according to reports and electoral maps published by local media. The party had previously held 29 seats following

Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley speaking to supporters after winning a landslide victory for her Barbados Labour Party (BLP) in the country’s first election since it became a republic by removing Britain’s Queen as sovereign Head of State, in Bridgetown, Barbados January 20, 2022

its landslide win in 2018.

Verla De Peiza, leader of the opposition Democratic Labour Party, conceded defeat.

Mottley’s snap vote moved up the election by about a year and a half. Opposition leaders had criticised Mottley for holding the election at a moment when some people were infected with coronavirus and could not leave their homes.

About 5500 people from a population of just under 300,000 are in isolation due to

COVID-19, according official figures.

The opposition had unsuccessfully sought a court injunction to stop the vote on the grounds that holding vote amid pandemic restrictions violated suffrage rights.

The former British colony declared independence in 1966 but retained Queen Elizabeth as its ceremonial Head of State until Nov 30 last year. She was replaced

by President Sandra Mason.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

SVG Gov’t to bond locally-trained nurses as more opt to work overseas

P

rime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines Dr Ralph Gonsalves has announced that his government will begin bonding locally-trained nurses to work in the country.

This after disclosing that a significant number of health care employees are opting to work overseas.

Though he did not state how long the nurses would be bonded, Gonsalves who was speaking on state radio on Wednesday, said the process will begin with nurses currently enrolled at the nation’s training school.

The Prime Minister said he has discussed the issue with the chief personnel officer and Nigel Scott, director of the SVG Community College, of which the Division of Nursing Education is a part.

“We don’t have a bonding programme for nurses because we have been producing such a surplus that you could even facilitate some nurses going [overseas to work]. It’s a poverty reduction measure.

[It] is to make sure that young people have a noble profession, especially women,” he said.

However, he said after spending significant sums on training and supporting nurses, many of them were taking up employment opportunities overseas.

“I don’t begrudge anybody who wants to go overseas and get an opportunity to work and the like. But, surely, I mean, you can’t just use

Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr Ralph Gonsalves

the system in a way you get a free education for two or three years, or in some cases, four years are near-free; you get $1,000 a month. I pay you to go to school, really, and then immediately when you come out, you get a year on the SET [Support for Education and Training programme], for instance – which a SET nurse is $1,500 a month – and then you say you want to get appointed… as a staff nurse, [but] you don’t necessarily have it in your mind to stay to give a few years’ service,” he said “Shortly after you get appointed as a staff nurse, you jump on a plane and you gone somewhere else,” Gonsalves contended.

Although acknowledging that there is a “great demand, greater than usual” for nurses globally, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Vincentian leader insisted that nurses could not turn

their back on the government that paid to train them.

“Come on… you can’t tell me, well, you do one year or you do two years. You’ve got to give me a little bit more than that, man. That sounds reasonable. I wasn’t encumbering the young people, but the circumstances have now changed,” Prime Minister Gonsalves said.

He rejected the view that nurses were leaving because they have been mandated to take a COVID-19 vaccine.

“That’s not the case because it’s really the pull of countries outside, including the Caribbean….; places like Tortola, Bermuda, Turks and Caicos, Antigua itself, St Kitts,” Gonsalves said.

“They are good nurses. I love them very much but you got to show some solidarity with me, too — not just me but I mean with the country. You can’t take the view that well, you’re a Vincentian, there’s this programme and you get it and then you’re going. So we have to … do a bonding,” he continued.

“Remember, this programme is hundreds upon hundreds, running into thousands of persons who have trained as nurses and nursing assistants. I mean, we spent millions expanding the nursing school, increased the staff, do all sorts of things and we do something for our nursing students here, which people don’t do otherwise in the region.”

(CMC)

he US Justice Department said on Thursday it had charged a second man Rodolphe Jaar - for his role in the assassination of former Haitian President Jovenel Moise in July 2021.

Jaar, 49, a dual HaitianChilean citizen, was arrested on Wednesday, the department said. He is charged with conspiring to commit murder or kidnapping outside of the United States and providing material support resulting in death.

He is now the second defendant to face charges in connection with Moise’s murder.

Earlier this month, the United States charged

Mario Palacios, a former Colombian military officer, saying he was part of a conspiracy that first planned to kidnap Moise, but later evolved into an assassination plot after conspirators were unable to find a plane to take the president out of Haiti.

The Government contends that Jaar and a group of about 20 Colombian citizens and a few dual HaitianAmericans conspired in the plot.

Its complaint, unsealed on Wednesday in the US District Court for the Southern District of Florida, alleges that Jaar was present when an unnamed co-conspirator obtained a

signature from a former Haitian judge on a request for assistance to arrest and imprison Moise.

The unnamed co-conspirator, referred to only as “co-conspirator #1,” is described as a dual HaitianAmerican who travelled from Haiti to the United States to help lay the groundwork for the plan before flying back to Haiti from Florida on July 1, 2021 to participate in the operation.

The person is currently in custody in Haiti, the complaint says.

Moise was assassinated at his residence in Port-auPrince on July 7, 2021. He was shot 12 times. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Peru’s Castillo decrees major oil spill an environmental emergency

P

eruvian President Pedro Castillo declared an environmental emergency on Thursday as clean-up teams struggled to contain a huge oil spill at the country’s biggest refinery, after rogue waves rocked a ship unloading crude there.

The spill, blamed on unusual swells caused by a volcanic eruption thousands of miles away in Tonga on Sunday, has dirtied waters and beaches along Peru’s Pacific coast, with dead birds and seals washing up on shore.

“We are at a critical moment in environmental matters,” said Castillo, before signing the emergency decree on one of the beaches hit by the spill. “This is the most worrying ecological disaster on the Peruvian coast in recent times.”

“We cannot shy away from responsibilities, it is about assuming them, in this case the company that caused this ecological disaster,” he added.

A spokeswoman for La

Workers rest after cleaning an oil spill caused by abnormal waves triggered by a massive underwater volcanic eruption in Tonga, off the coast of Lima, in Ventanilla, Peru January 19, 2022

Pampilla refinery, owned by Spanish energy firm Repsol, has said the firm was not responsible for the spill and blamed the Peruvian Navy for not issuing a tsunami warning after the Tonga eruption.

Unlike other Pacific countries, Peruvian authorities warned of unusual waves only after the eruption.

Environment Minister Ruben Ramirez has said that some 6000 barrels of oil were spilled in the incident, which has left oil on 21 beaches.

Peru’s Agency for

Environmental Assessment and Enforcement (OEFA) said in a statement that as of Thursday the area affected included 1.7 million square meters of land and 1.2 million square meters in the sea.

Repsol said in a statement on Thursday that a team of divers was exploring underwater damage from the spill, and said it had deployed more than 2500 meters of containment booms and 10 boats to recover oil from the sea.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Colombia can’t resume coca aerial spraying for now, court rules

R

ights groups and politicians in Colombia have welcomed a decision by the country’s Constitutional Court, which ruled this week that the Government failed to consult local communities over its plan to restart aerial fumigation of coca crops.

In a decision on Wednesday, the court said the Government of President Ivan Duque could not at this stage move forward with plans to carry out aerial spraying with herbicide glyphosate. It said Bogota must first adequately consult with communities that could be affected.

Coca is the base ingredi-

ent of cocaine and is grown widely around Colombia, mostly by poor farmers who either have no other means of income or are forced into growing it by drug trafficking groups.

“The most significant thing about this [ruling] is that the court is protecting various rights that rural farmers, Indigenous and Black communities have,” Pedro Arenas, director of Viso Mutop, a think-tank that promotes drug policy reforms across Colombia, told Al Jazeera.

“The Government ignored the voice of the communities,” he said.

The Colombian govern-

ment, which has for decades been pressured by the United States to crack down on drugs, has pushed for the restart of aerial fumigation ever since it was banned in the South American nation in 2015.

Earlier that year, the World Health Organisation (WHO) linked glyphosate – marketed under the brand name RoundUp in the US – as a probable human carcinogenic.

Aerial spraying of glyphosate previously saw rural water supplies contaminated and food crops destroyed in the Colombian countryside, analysts told Al Jazeera.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022

19

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS Crude prices edge lower, though supply concerns still dominant

O

il edged lower on Thursday, posting slim losses after several days of strength that pushed benchmarks to seven-year highs due to concerns about tight supply.

Brent crude futures settled down 6 cents to US$88.38 a barrel.

The global benchmark rose to US$89.17 on Wednesday, its highest level since October 2014; the benchmark is up 13 per cent on the year so far.

US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures for February delivery lost 6 cents to US$86.90 a barrel on the last day of the contract's life. WTI is up 15 per cent so far this year. The more active March WTI contract settled at US$85.55 a barrel, down 25 cents.

Crude stocks rose by 515,000 barrels last week while gasoline inventories rose by 5.9 million barrels, boosting those inventories to their highest in a year, according to the US Energy Department.

"I don't think the build in gasoline supplies is a bull killer. We're going to need refiners to continue to refine to meet gasoline demand in the summer driving seasons - that is one of the reasons the market is still supported despite the build in gasoline supplies," said Phil Flynn, senior analyst at Price Futures Group.

Trading has been dominated by supply concerns, from shortterm issues like a temporary halt to flows in an Iraq-to-Turkey pipeline to a consistent shortfall from OPEC+ members in reaching targeted supply increases.

In the meantime, demand remains steady, with US product supplies, a proxy for demand in the world's largest consumer, reaching 21.2 million bpd over the past four weeks, ahead of the pre-pandemic pace.

Supply concerns have mounted this week after a fire temporarily halted flows through an oil pipeline running from Iraq's Kirkuk to the Turkish port of Ceyhan on Tuesday.

The OPEC+ producer group comprising OPEC and allies led

by Russia has been producing less than its targets, with the International Energy Agency (IEA) on Wednesday estimating that the group produced about 800,000 barrels per day (bpd) below its December targets.

The IEA said that while the oil market could be in a significant surplus in the first quarter of this year, inventories are likely to be well below pre-pandemic levels. The agency also upgraded its 2022 demand forecast.

An attack by Yemen's Houthis on the United Arab Emirates, the third-largest producer in the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), heightened risks among big suppliers.

The relative strength index (RSI) for WTI, a measure of momentum, was at levels last seen in October, suggesting the rally is at risk of becoming overextended and ripe for sellers to come into the market. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Huge explosion in Ghana mining region kills residents, fells buildings

A

n explosion in Ghana's rural Western Region on Thursday razed hundreds of buildings and killed an unknown number of residents when a truck carrying explosives to a gold mine collided with a motorcycle.

Unverified videos posted on local media showed a large, smouldering blast site in which buildings had been reduced to piles of wood, brick and twisted metal.

In one video, two bodies are

A

briefing on Thursday In a separate briefing, the World Health Organisation Regional Director for Africa, Matshidiso Moeti, echoed Nkengasong’s call.

“Many countries indicate that they would like vaccines to be donated with at least three months of shelf life, if not more,” Moeti said.

Nkengasong said the expired doses were mostly among those donated by individual countries or via the global vaccine-sharing scheme COVAX, and that they had arrived with “very short notice”.

In contrast, doses of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine acquired by African countries via a scheme organised by the 55-member African Union and delivered with a longer shelf

"The public has been advised to move out of the area to nearby towns for their safety while recovery efforts are underway," the Police said in a statement.

Nearby towns have been asked to open up public spaces including classrooms and churches to survivors, the Police said.

The explosion occurred in Apiate between the towns of Bogoso and Bawdie when a motorcycle went under a truck

carrying explosives owned by a company called Maxam that was on route to the Chirano gold mine, run by Torontobased Kinross.

A Kinross spokesperson confirmed the incident, saying it occurred 140 kilometres (87 miles) from the mine.

Ghana President Nana Akufo-Addo tweeted that he had been informed of the incident and confirmed that there had been deaths. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Millions are dying from drug-resistant infections, global report says

M

ore than 1.2 million people died worldwide in 2019 from infections caused by bacteria resistant to antibiotics, according to the largest study of the issue to date.

This is more than the annual death toll from malaria or AIDS. Poorer countries are worst affected but antimicrobial resistance threatens everyone's health, the report says.

Urgent investment in new drugs and using current ones more wisely are recommended to protect against it.

The overuse of antibiotics in recent years for trivial infections means they are becoming less effective against serious infections.

People are dying from common, previously treatable infections because the bacteria that cause them have become resistant to treatment.

UK health officials recently warned antimicrobial resistance (AMR) was a "hidden pandemic" that could emerge in the wake of COVID-19 unless antibiotics

Africa CDC Chief calls for COVID vaccines with longer shelf life

frica’s top public health bodies have called for donated COVID-19 vaccines to come with a shelf life of three to six months so countries could plan their rollouts and avoid a situation where doses expire.

John Nkengasong, Director of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), said 2.8 million doses of vaccine had expired on the continent, roughly 0.5 per cent of the 572 million doses delivered to date. He said 10.4 per cent of Africans were fully vaccinated.

“In terms of the 0.5 per cent, let me be very clear, any dose of vaccine that expired pains me because that is a life that can be potentially saved,” Nkengasong told a news

seen crumpled on the ground, covered in dust. A photo shared by a local council member showed a deep crater at the epicentre of the blast, onlookers peering down from its rim.

Seji Saji Amedonu, Deputy Director General of the National Disaster Management Organisation, said 500 buildings had been destroyed. A regional emergency official told local media he had seen 10 dead bodies.

life had not expired, he said.

He said some countries were now refusing to accept vaccines when they saw that the shelf life was only one or two months.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Lab test of antimicrobial resistance

were prescribed responsibly.

The estimate of global deaths from AMR, published in the Lancet, is based on an analysis of 204 countries by a team of international researchers, led by the University of Washington, US.

They calculate up to five million people died in 2019 from illnesses in which AMR played a role - on top of the 1.2 million deaths it caused directly.

In the same year, AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) is thought to have

caused 860,000 deaths and malaria 640,000.

Most of the deaths from AMR were caused by lower respiratory infections, such as pneumonia, and bloodstream infections, which can lead to sepsis.

MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) was particularly deadly, while E coli, and several other bacteria, were also linked to high levels of drug resistance.

Using patient records from hospitals, studies and other data sources, the researchers say young children are at most risk, with about one in five deaths linked to AMR being among the under-fives.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Deadly bomb blast in Pakistan targets Lahore’s shopping district

A

t least two people have been killed and dozens more wounded after an explosion in a busy shopping district in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore, Police say.

The explosion took place in the Lohari Gate area, a densely packed neighbourhood consisting of small shops packed into narrow criss-crossing streets, on Thursday afternoon, Police spokesperson Nayab Haider told Al Jazeera.

“The deaths of two people are confirmed,” he said, adding that four of the wounded

were in critical condition.

Hospital officials at Lahore’s Mayo hospital, where the wounded were being treated, confirmed the death toll and said at least 26 people had been wounded in the blast.

Television footage showed Police officials cordoning off blast site, with forensic teams gathering evidence.

“Initially it seems that this is a planted [bomb] device that has caused this explosion,” senior Police official Abid Khan told reporters at the scene.

Khan said investigations

were ongoing to determine the nature of the blast and the kind of explosive used.

Rescue official Farooq Ahmed told Al Jazeera that all of the wounded had been shifted from the scene to nearby hospitals.

Most of the wounded had been hit by shrapnel in their lower limbs, Police official Khan said.

No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, which occurred in the commercial centre of Pakistan’s second-largest city. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

West stresses unified stance on Ukraine after Biden's 'minor incursion' remark

T

he United States and Western countries sought to project unity and a tough stance over Ukraine on Thursday, after US President Joe Biden suggested allies were split over how to react to any potential "minor incursion" from Russia.

Biden rowed back on his comments, made during a Wednesday news conference, saying on Thursday that "I have been absolutely clear with President

(Vladimir) Putin, he has no misunderstanding. If any, any assembled Russian units move across the Ukrainian border that is an invasion".

Such an invasion would be met by a "severe and coordinated response, economic response as discussed in details with our allies, as laid out very clearly with President Putin," Biden told reporters.

His remarks echoed efforts from other members

of the administration earlier on Thursday and late on Wednesday, as the White House sought to scotch any suggestion that a smaller-scale Russian military incursion would meet a weaker US response.

Russia has massed tens of thousands of troops on its borders with Ukraine, and Western states fear Moscow is planning a new assault on a country it invaded in 2014. Russia denies it is planning an at-

tack, but says it could take unspecified military action if a list of demands is not met, including a promise from NATO never to admit Ukraine as a member.

At his Wednesday news conference, Biden said he expected Putin to launch some kind of action, and appeared to suggest Washington and its allies might disagree over the response if Moscow stopped short of a major invasion.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

20

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022

guyanatimesgy.com

DAILY HOROSCOPES

ARCHIE

Make someone happy, and you’ll reap the rewards. Think outside the box to discover an exciting way to put your skills to good use. Put your energy where it counts most.

(March 21-April 19) A change will be uplifting. Socialize or do something that will make you feel good about your appearance. Plan a trip, sign up for a course or spend time with people you enjoy being around.

DILBERT (April 20-May 20)

Use your experience and skill to your advantage. You can overcome a situation that is unfair or causing you grief if you remain calm and seek out support. Keep a cool head and find solutions.

(May 21-June 20) Look for opportunities, and you won’t be disappointed. Make domestic upgrades that encourage you to spend less time out on the town. Focus on relationships, togetherness and family fun.

PEANUTS (June 21-July 22)

Live up to your promises and say no to unnecessary alterations. Spend less money and take on more responsibility.

Own the stage and take a leadership position.

(July 23-Aug. 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Focus on personal gain, growth and overall happiness. Make unique plans with a loved one and share your intentions. An unusual opportunity will give you hope and encourage you to learn all you can.

Tidy up, move things around and make your space more functional. An intelligent approach to getting something done will leave you more time for yourself or to spend with loved ones.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23) Rethink your home/work strategy, and you’ll come up with a stylish way to balance your life. An uncertain situation regarding responsibilities will need an adjustment. Never say never.

SUDOKU (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

New information will change your view of a situation. Don’t let anger narrow your perspective. Let your ingenuity guide you to a new start or a different way of doing something.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21) Evaluate your financial position and how you can use your assets effectively.

Investing in your well-being will bring you peace of mind. Discuss your plans with a loved one.

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Uncertainty will set in if you expect too much from others. Set goals and pace yourself. Taking care of matters from start to finish will help you excel. Don’t rely on others to get things done.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Use your imagination, and you will find a way to solve any problem that arises. Understanding, compassion and affection will draw interesting individuals to your side.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022

21

GCB to discuss schools’ cricket with Education Ministry officials

P

Education Minister Priya Manickchand

resident of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), Bissoondyal Singh, has indicated his readiness to institute a very comprehensive cricket development programme in schools.

In this regard, the GCB would soon be meeting with officials of the Ministry of Education to discuss the im-

plementation of the schools’ cricket programme from 2022 onwards.

The Board plans to place emphasis on nursery, primary and secondary schools, with the nursery aspect being formally explored for the first-time in the history of GCB cricket administration. The main focus of the nursery schools’ cricket

programme is to introduce cricket-related skills to children at an early age.

These training and development activities would be carried out across all three counties of Guyana under the categories: Nursery, Under-9, Under-11, Under-13, Under-15, Under-17, Under-19, and would feature key development areas of male and female cricket.

All activities would begin with the training of students interested in playing the game, in order to facilitate the identification of these players for competitive matches.

With the exception of Under-9 cricket activities, competitions would be played from an inter-zone stage before graduating to players participating at the inter-county level.

The Under-9 category would be played in an in-

GCB President Bissoondyal Singh

ter-school format which would be conducted for the other school categories also in 2023.

To support this initiative, the GCB would engage the Ministry of Education for permission to conduct cricket-related activities on Friday afternoons within and among schools.

Additionally, GCB president Bissoondyal Singh

has plans for the establishment of his countrywide academies along with a cricket college, which he feels would enhance the allround development of our cricketers and give those who may not become professional cricketers opportunities to have careers in other areas.

A number of professional facilitators would be in-

volved in the learning exercises that are designed to suit the student-athletes.

The training activities are expected to include lateral areas of development, giving players an opportunity to consider careers in other cricket-related areas, such as Match Refereeing, Umpiring, Scoring, Curating, Coaching, Managing, being Statisticians, Physiotherapy/Strength and Conditioning, and Administrative Responsibilities.

These training activities would include the conduct of Cricket West Indies’ coaching certification courses and pathway activities to umpire certification courses. They would also include a component named “meet the player”, where national players would impart their cricketing knowledge to students.

History created as Guyana invited to UEFA U-16 tournament in Moldova squad, broaden horizons, and inspire a whole cohort of young players and coaches to strive to reach their full potential in football,” Forde added.

“We know that the boys and staff will make Guyana proud as ambassadors for our sport and nation, and leave an extremely positive impression on our European partners. This will put

I

sign of the strong relationship between the GFF and European football’s governing body, as part of the UEFA Assist programme.

This programme has seen UEFA’s assistance in the provision of two minibuses, ongoing collaboration in the development of a professional league, and capacity building and “return to play” planning.

UEFA Head of International Relations, Eva Pasquier

n what is a definite first for Guyana, the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) would in April be sending an Under-16 boys’ national squad to a UEFAsponsored international youth tournament in Moldova, the landlocked Eastern European country that is sandwiched between Ukraine and Romania.

Three European national teams would be participating in that tournament.

In the unprecedented engagement, Guyana would face the hosts, whose senior men’s team has ranked as high as 37th in FIFA world rankings, as well as the mountainous principality of Andorra and the Faroe Islands in a round-robin tournament, which takes

place between April 11 and 19.

“This is a truly historic moment for Guyanese football, that represents a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity for our young players and coaching staff to showcase their talent and gain invaluable exposure in Europe,” GFF President Wayne Forde has said.

“We are extremely grateful to UEFA Assist, Concacaf, and the Moldovan Football Association for including Guyanese youth in this unique, cross-cultural learning experience, building on our already very strong partnerships with UEFA and our own regional governing body.

“This experience will create lifelong memories for the

GFF President, Wayne Forde

Guyanese football on the map in Europe, and open up connections and new opportunities for our young players, coaches and referees for many years to come.”

The exclusive invitation, which has been facilitated and fully supported by Concacaf, is a further

“We are delighted to support the development of the Guyana Football Federation’s U-16 National Team,” said UEFA Head of International Relations, Eva Pasquier. “The opportunity to play in a European tournament, learn from and exchange with UEFA national

associations, and experience new cultures will undoubtedly help these young stars to develop both on and off the pitch. And this is exactly what UEFA Assist is all about.”

Players, who must have been born on or after January 1, 2006 to make the U-16 squad, will be carefully selected in the coming weeks through an extensive talent identification process organised by the GFF’s Technical Department across the GFF’s nine regional associations and non-affiliated hinterland communities.

“While we will be looking to draw on existing talent from our national network of GFF Academy Training Centres, we also want to ensure that every player who should be considered for this incredible trip will be considered by our staff; so, we encourage our members, clubs and hinterland communities to participate fully in the talent identification sessions, which will be announced shortly,” said GFF Technical Director Ian Greenwood.

“We will then focus on an intense and holistic training regime to fully prepare our squad for the task ahead.”

The Moldovan tournament would also provide

an excellent platform for preparation for the forthcoming Concacaf U-17 Championship qualifiers, which are scheduled for August.

The cost of the trip to Eastern Europe would be covered by UEFA Assist, a UEFA programme which seeks to develop football within and beyond Europe, with provision made for a 28-strong group to travel, including 20 players. Concacaf has played a significant role in facilitating UEFA Assist support projects for its members since the programme’s inception.

“Under the leadership of President Victor Montagliani, Concacaf is committed to working with, and supporting, all of our members to put football first and provide development opportunities which will truly benefit players and coaches across the region,” said Howard McIntosh, One Concacaf and Caribbean Projects Senior Manager.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for the Guyana Football Federation and its young players, and we commend President Forde and the GFF for their dedication to growing the game in Guyana and Concacaf.”

(GFF)

22

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

King has sights set on 2022 T20 World Cup B

randon King is hoping to make the most of his recall to the West Indies' T20I side after a year away, and has his sights set on the T20 World Cup to be played in Australia in October.

The 27-year-old made a convincing case for international selection in the 2019 CPL when he was the tournament's leading run-scorer, with a strike rate of 148.94 to boot, for Guyana Amazon Warriors. However, he initially struggled to make the step up.

His first 110 T20I innings for West Indies - all away from home - brought just 153 runs, and he lost his place after the tour to New Zealand in November 2020 when the selectors returned to the experience of Lendl Simmons and Andre Fletcher ahead of last year's World Cup in the UAE. But West Indies' disastrous performance in that tournament - the defending champions were knocked out in the Super 12s, after losing four games out of five - prompted a recall for King ahead of the tour to Pakistan, where he made his maiden international half-century.

King said that he felt more "mentally prepared" for international cricket after taking the time to analyse his own game during his absence from the team, and revealed that he has set himself the goal of leading the run-scoring charts in the five-match T20I series against England in Barbados, which starts on Saturday.

"I was obviously very happy to be back in West Indies colours," King said. "There (have) always been technical aspects that I've been working on over the year, but I play my best cricket when I keep things simple out there while I'm batting, and try to play the situation as it is. That has really helped me to do better out there - just to remain calm in general.

"Over that period of time, I had ample time to reflect on my game and what works for me and what doesn't, and to try and improve my weaknesses. That was done over time. I feel I was more mentally prepared this second time around. I know my game better, and I know how to get the best out of myself.

"My long-term goal would obviously be to make the World Cup squad at the end of the year. That's always in the back of my mind, but I do like to stay in the present. My immediate goal would be to try and do my best in this series here. [In the] last series I played in Pakistan, I finished with the second most runs, so it would be nice to finish with the most runs in this series… That's my big goal that I've set out for myself.

"I try to focus on the things that I can control. Selection and those other aspects I don't have any control over, but I'll always try and put myself in a position to be in the conversation. This year is set up in a way that we have some series leading up to the World Cup, and I would love to put myself in a position to be part of a team that starts to turn around the fortunes for West Indies cricket."

King also confirmed his intention to play for West Indies across formats, having shown promise in the regional four-day championships before his breakthrough as a white-ball player. While his opportunities to play in the competition this season would be limited by West Indies' white-ball series, King described Test cricket as "the ultimate goal".

"I'm definitely willing to play Test cricket," he said.

"When I grew up, I grew up watching Test cricket, so that was what I dreamed of. For me, it's the ultimate goal. The way my career was going at first was leading towards that.

The first West Indies team for me was the 'A' team, four-day team after I had a decent fourday championship.

"After I had a good y e a r i n 2019 CPL, m y whiteb a l l g a m e kind of took over, but I'll be ready anytime.

Any chance I get to play fourday cricket again, I'd love to play, to try and put my name in the hat for Test cricket. I'd love to play all formats.

(ESPNcricinfo)

Brandon King

Golden start for BCB to host three trial Ramdhani as he matches to select U-15 team cops Singles and Mixed Doubles

T

The Berbice U-15 team will be announced on January 30

Narayan Ramdhani

G

uyanese Badminton star Narayan Ramdhani has made a solid start to the fresh Badminton season, as he copped gold in the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference Badminton Championships in Canada.

Playing at King’s University, Guyana’s top-seeded player copped the Men’s Singles title and then teamed up with Abigail Ledda to win the Mixed Doubles.

During the Singles competition, top seed Ramdhani drew a bye in the opening round, before defeating David Jay 21-12, 21-14 and then thumping Brandon Gendre 21-5, 21-6.

The final was a clash of the top two seeds, and it was Ramdhani who reigned supreme with a 21-12, 15-21, 21-19 win against Smit Patel.

In the Mixed Doubles, Ramdhani and Ledda gained a bye in the first round. They then defeated Aakash Panchal and Erica Jorgensen 21-4, 21-10. In the final against Smit Patel and Ivy Ung, Ramdhani and Ledda gained a walkover.

he BCB is forging ahead with plans to select the best possible under-15 team for the upcoming GCB inter-county tournament. The BCB started the Tenelec Under-15 countywide tournament with 16 teams, and then invited a total of 56 youths to a special training session with the Junior Selection Committee under the chairmanship of Balram Samaroo at the Rose Hall Canje Ground.

The next step would be hosting of 3 fifty-over trial matches across the county.

The matches would be held in January on Saturday 22nd, Wednesday 26th and Saturday 29th.

The selectors have named three teams along with captains for the trials, which would be played on a competitive basis.

The teams would bear the names of three cricket-

ing legends of the county, and BCB President Hilbert Foster has stated this trend would continue for the rest of the year as the board pays tributes to heroes of the past. The three teams would be John Trim XI, -led by Navin Budhan; Rohan Kanhai XI, led by Ricardo Ramdehol; and Ivan Madray XI, captained

by Sohail Mohamed.

Fixtures 1. Madray XI vs Trim XI on Saturday January 22 at Albion 2. Madray XI vs Kanhai XI on Wednesday January 26 at venue to be named 3. Kanhai XI vs Trim XI on Saturday January 29 The teams are: IVAN MADRAY XI 1.Adrian Hetmyer 2.Razam Koobeer 3.Lamror Seecharran 4.Devin Lalbeharry 5.Jayden Edwards

6.Aden Semple 7.Sohail Mohammed (CPT) 8.Richard Ramdehol 9.Abdulla Azad 10.Enqrique Mickle 11.Dave Prettipaul 12.Nicholas Lepps 13.Nicholas Hall JOHN TRIM XI 1.Farhan Balle 2.Vishal Williams 3.Arif Bacchus 4.Navin Boodwah (CPT) 5.Shoaib Gafoor 6.Gavin Kisten 7.Thierry Henry 8.Matthew Pereira 9.Akash Sooklall 10.G. Griffith 11.Shamul Daniels 12.Alvin James 13.Arif Khan ROHAN KANHAI XI 1.Chamesh Seenauth 2.Romario Ramdehol (CPT) 3.Fiaz Baksh 4.Ravin Boodwah 5.Lakeram Singh 6.Devavand Samaroo 7.Rohit Sarjoon

8.Roshawn Crandon 9.Yoganand Mohan 10.Reshan Sakrulla 11.Glenroy Fraser 12.Vikesh Roopnarine 13.Winston Hartman All players coming to the trials are asked to walk with their vaccination cards, and are asked to kindly report to the venue by 8.30am with white clothes and cricket gear.

The final BERBICE team would be announced by Sunday January 30.

CLASSIFIED ADS FOR SALE Tee Shores, Form Boards, Few Ply Boards and some 6” x 6”, 8” x 8”, 5” x 5” Lumbers. Must sell. Going cheap. Contact 501 3706/609 6311.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

23

Hero CPL viewership surpasses 500 million for second successive year Sportsmax and the major local stations showed the games.

BT Sport in the UK, Fox Sports in Australia, Willow in the USA, and Sky in New Zealand were the other major global networks to broadcast CPL. The tournament was also streamed on Hero CPL’s social media channels, ensuring the CPL could be watched anywhere in the world.

The total viewership of 517.4 million sees the Hero CPL maintaining the big boost in coverage that the

Patriots won the CPL in 2021

T

he viewership of the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has surpassed the half-billion mark for the second successive season in 2021, with

strong numbers across the globe. The total viewership was 517.4 million across linear TV and digital channels.

The 2021 Hero CPL took place in St Kitts and Nevis,

with all 33 matches being played at the Warner Park in Basseterre. Home franchise the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots emerged victorious in a thrilling final against the

Jason Roy returns to action with 36-ball hundred ahead of West Indies T20Is

J

ason Roy marked his return to fitness by hitting a 36-ball hundred - and 115 off 47 overall - in England's warm-up match against a BCA President's XI at Kensington Oval.

Roy has not played any cricket since tearing his left calf muscle during England's final Super 12s game of the T20 World Cup against South Africa in November, when he collapsed in pain after running a single, and was carried off the pitch.

But his onslaught, which contained nine fours and ten sixes, signalled his fitness ahead of the five-match T20I series, which starts on Saturday and will be staged in its entirety in Barbados.

For the opening stand, Roy added 141 in 61 balls with Tom Banton - who kept wicket and was pre-

Jason Roy

ferred to Phil Salt at the top of the order. Ninety-two of those runs came in the sixover powerplay.

Ashley Nurse slowed the scoring through the middle phase, taking 2 for 20 in four overs with his offbreaks, and removing Roy and Moeen Ali in the space of five balls. But James Vince, Eoin Morgan and Salt - in an unfamiliar role at No. 6 - struck some late blows to take England to an imposing total of 231 for 4.

England used eight bowlers - five seamers and three spinners - in their defence, taking regular wickets to keep their opponents to 137 for the loss of 11 wickets, with each team fielding 13 players.

Tymal Mills took three wickets, Adil Rashid and Chris Jordan picked up two each; and Reece Topley, Saqib Mahmood and Liam Dawson each picked up a wicket.

David Payne, Harry Brook, Liam Livingstone - whom the PA news agency reported has been suffering from illness in recent days - were the squad members not involved, while Sam Billings, arrived on the island after a gruelling long-haul journey from Hobart.

Shamar Springer, who was part of West Indies' World Cup-winning Under-19 team in 2016, and has played for Jamaica Tallawahs in the CPL, top-scored with 36 off 23 balls from No. 7.

On Tuesday, West Indies comfortably beat the BCA President's XI on the same ground. They restricted their opponents to 131 for 6, with Hayden Walsh Jr taking 2 for 28, and then batted on past their target to reach 169 for 4 in 19.2 overs. Kyle Mayers, who opened the batting with Brandon King, topscored with 38. (ESPNcricinfo)

Saint Lucia Kings – a match that was the most watched game of the tournament, with the semi-final between the Patriots and Guyana Amazon Warriors being the second most viewed match.

Once again, it was India that represented the largest linear TV viewership, with the Caribbean close behind.

There were major broadcast deals across the globe.

In India, Star and Fancode shared the linear and digital broadcast, and ensured CPL became the second most watched league, after the IPL. In the Caribbean,

advertising, live player tracking, and the use of Sportcor’s Kookaburra Smart Ball for the first time in a live tournament setting.

Pete Russell, Hero CPL CEO, said: “We were delighted to pass the 500 million viewer mark set in 2020, and to maintain that figure for 2021, when we were competing with so many other sports, is a fantastic achievement. These figures show where the Hero CPL sits in world cricket, with the tournament now being amongst the most watched cricket

CPL CEO, Pete Russell

tournament received in 2020, once again showing the worldwide appetite for ‘The Biggest Party in Sport’.

The 2021 broadcast featured a number of innovations, including virtual pitch

leagues in the world. We(‘re) very much looking forward to continuing this fantastic success in 2022, and promise to continue to innovate and deliver unforgettable viewing experiences.” (CPL)

Chanderpaul is new Jamaica Tallawahs’ Head Coach, -Sir Curtly Ambrose is Bowling Coach

L

egendary Guyana and West Indies batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul has been appointed Head Coach of the Jamaica Tallawahs for the 2022 season. Chanderpaul’s former West Indian teammate Sir Curtly Ambrose is also slated to join the franchise support staff.

Chanderpaul, the 47-year-old left-hander

Shivnarine Chanderpaul

Sir Curtly Ambrose

who played 164 Test matches, 268 One-Day Internationals, and 22 T20 Internationals for the West Indies, accumulating 20,988 runs, has made 30 Test hundreds and 11 centuries in One-Day Internationals.

Krishna Persaud, owner

of the Jamaica Tallawahs, has said: “Shivnarine has had an illustrious playing career, and is one of the greats of the game. He has served West Indies Cricket with distinction, and I know that he will take the Tallawahs to new heights.”

Reacting to the appointment, Chanderpaul, who averaged 51.37 in Tests and 41.60 in ODIs, has said: “It’s an absolute honour to be appointed as the new Head Coach of the Jamaica Tallawahs, and I am really looking forward to working with the players and support staff to bring another championship to Jamaica.”

The Jamaica Tallawahs,

inaugural winners of the tournament in 2013, have won a second title in 2016.

Meanwhile, Sir Curtly, widely regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time, will join the Tallawahs support staff as the Bowling Coach. The Antiguan has taken 405 Test wickets and 225 ODI wickets, averaging 20.99 in Tests and 24.12 in ODIs. Persaud has said: “Sir Curtly brings a lot of technical expertise and experience to the Tallawahs, and we look forward to having him with the team.”

The franchise has also appointed Jamaican Andre Coley as Assistant Coach to Chanderpaul.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022

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

Page 23

Hero CPL viewership surpasses 500 million for second successive year King has sights set on 2022 T20 World Cup

Page 22

Chanderpaul is new Jamaica Tallawahs’ Head Coach

-Sir Curtly Ambrose is Bowling Coach

Brandon King

GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, NEWS HOTLINE: 231-8063 EDITORIAL: 223-7230, 223-7231, 231-0544, 225-7761 SPORT: sport@guyanatimesgy.com SALES AND MARKETING: 231-8064 - marketing@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.

Page 23