Guyana Times -- Monday January 17, 2022

Constitutional reform to get underway soon – Nandlall P

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– expects full participation from stakeholders

Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 4892

THE BEACON OF TRUTH MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 2022

PRICE

CPSO attack on Guyana’s Local Content Policy

$100 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Guyana getting 'short end of stick' in trading with Caricom – GCCI President – says Caribbean would lose should Guyana exit CSME

Anna Catherina man busted with stolen P2 items in home Cyclist dies days after being hit by truck P2

Use of oil funds finally begins – spending to be approved by this year Parliament from Consolidated Fund Page 11

Works commence to transform Lamaha reserve Page 11

– President Ali says aim is to promote family spaces in city

GuySuCo CEO sues Kaieteur News over allegedly P8 libellous articles

NA market vendor homeless after fire P2 destroys home

President Irfaan Ali on Sunday visited the plot of land on the Lamaha corridor that is being developed into a family-oriented park that includes recreational facilities, art gallery and a food court. Inset photo shows President Ali in discussion with officials at the site

3-mth, 6-Y-O girls among 9 more COVID deaths Page 14

– active cases surpass 10,000 with 1082 new infections

Ailing baby dies after receiving medical treatment at Skeldon Hospital

One day after massive clean-up

Police seek P10 litterbug who dumped garbage in Durey Lane

See story on page 9

…investigation underway

Women robbed P by knife-toting 10 bandits at Eccles

2 NEWS

MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NA market vendor homeless after fire destroys home because everybody was downstairs cooking.”

He explained that all the cooking for the religious function was being done at his house but at the time the fire started, no one was in the upper flat.

“By the time I get back, the whole house was flat but the fire truck was here and they did a good job.”

Mohamed said he could not estimate his losses at this time, noting that “The

A

and everything. Maybe it

The house that was completely destroyed by the fire

New Amsterdam market vendor and his wife are now homeless after a fire destroyed their Maida Farm, Corentyne home on Sunday.

The mid-morning blaze was first detected on the upper flat of the two-storey building at about 09:00h.

The vendor, Asif Mohamed, who was not home at the time, told Guyana Times that he was a few houses away preparing for a religious function to observe his father’s first death anniversary when he got news of the fire.

“My wife called me and told me that the house is

on fire,” the 43-year-old man stated.

According to Mohamed, from all indications, the fire would have started in the vicinity of where the main switch and fuse box are located.

“The fire like it come from upstairs, the front room where the box is

as I get money, I keep adding on to the house,” he added.

Meanwhile, a nearby house has received some damage as a result of the inferno. The owner’s son reportedly soaked the house and stopped the fire from spreading.

One section of the exterior of the house was damaged as well as a water tank.

It was reported that a unit from the Rose Hall Town Fire Station and one from the New Amsterdam Fire Department arrived on the scene, and while firefighters could not stop the fire from completely destroying Mohamed’s house, they were able to contain it from spreading to nearby buildings

Anna Catherina man busted with stolen items in home

A nearby house that was damaged

anks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) have arrested a well-known fraudster after he was allegedly found with several pieces of stolen items in his Anna Catherina, West Coast Demerara (WCD) home on Friday evening.

Law enforcement officers in Regional Division Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara), said they made the arrest after carrying out a search on the home of the man.

During the search, the 36-year-old man was found with several car parts and documents in his possession, which the Police suspect were stolen or unlawfully obtained.

The man, who also resides at Kuru Kururu on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway, remained silent when questioned about the items, after which he was arrested and escorted to the Leonora

Cyclist dies days after being hit by truck

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house had everything. My cupboard alone is over $1 million with the granite

might not look so from outside… I am not sure what the estimated value is but

T

Police Station.

Police reports stated that he was placed into custody and later transferred to Diamond/Golden Grove Police Station. “…he was also wanted in relation to other fraud accusations and other offences in Regional Divisions 4 A and 4 B”, the Police added.

Following the man’s arrest, several persons took to social media making allegations that they were also

victims of his fraudulent activities. One man said: “He is a scamp he took my car and I never see him back. I told him God don’t sleep he will be caught.”

Another person posted, “This is the most wicked and evil person I ever meet. Good for him. He took my car and I never saw him again. Jail him!”.

The man is expected to make his court appearance this week.

wo days after being struck by a truck on along the Parika Public Road, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), a pedal cyclist succumbed to his injuries on Saturday.

Dead is 45-yearold Collin Mendonza of Hydronie Village, EBE. The accident reportedly occurred at about 12:30h on Thursday.

According to Police investigations, the truck, bearing registration number GZZ 2284, was proceeding along the Parika Public Road at a fast rate of speed while the cyclist allegedly rode into the path of the vehicle.

As a result, the pedal cyclist sustained injuries and was picked up by public-spirited persons in an unconscious state and taken to the Leonora Cottage Hospital, where he was treated and later referred to the Georgetown Public

Collin Mendonza’s body and bicycle on the road after he was struck by the truck

Hospital.

Mendonza subsequently succumbed to his injuries sometime around 08:50h on Saturday.

A breathalyser test was conducted on the truck driv-

er but there were no traces of alcohol in his system.

Nevertheless, charges are expected to be laid shortly against the 27-yearold resident of Tuschen New Housing Scheme, EBE.

NEWS

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MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

CPSO attack on Guyana’s Local Content Policy

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

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

Monday, Jan 17 – No closure and Tuesday, Jan 18 – 04:00h – 05:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Monday, Jan 17 – 15:55h – 17:25h and Tuesday, Jan 18 – 16:35h – 18:05h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY There will be sunshine during the day. Expect partly cloudy skies at night. Temperatures should range between 20 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

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

High Tide: 16:20h reaching a maximum height of 2.52 metres.

Low Tide: 09:55h and 22:22h reaching minimum heights of 0.85 metre and 0.67 metre.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022

LOTTERY NUMBERS L

06 07 11

15 22 26

FREE TICKET

21 Bonus Ball

DAILY MILLIONS

04 13 17 18 22 LUCKY 3

7

1

3

7

Afternoon Draw

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2

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

01 03 05 06 11 12 20 SUPER

PAY DAY

PAY DAY

FRIDAY, JANUARY 14, 2022

01 06 09 13 16 13

02 03 05 10 11

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FP Afternoon Draw

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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

$86.28/barrel

Rough Rice

$262.89/ton

+2.46

London Sugar

$502.60/ton

+1.07

Live Spot Gold

+0.26

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1813.90

$1814.90

Low/High Change

$1813.30 -4.20

$1819.40 -0.23%

Guyana getting 'short end of stick' in trading with Caricom – GCCI President – says Caribbean would lose should Guyana exit CSME

By Jarryl Bryan

T

he umbrage taken by the Caribbean Private Sector Organisation (CPSO) to Guyana’s efforts to protect its own local content, has sparked criticism and calls for Guyana to consider exiting the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME).

According to one Private Sector official, Guyana has always been short-changed within the bloc, when it comes to trade.

The disparity between Guyana’s exports and imports to the region was recently referenced by Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) President Timothy Tucker, who posted statistics to his social media page from the Bureau of Statistics dating back to 2019, to show that Guyana imports far more than it exports, to the Caribbean region.

According to the Bureau’s statistics which covered the period of January to March 2019, Guyana imported 29.6 per cent of its goods (US$117.2 million) from Trinidad and Tobago. The United States followed with 23.4 per cent of goods at $92.5 million.

Chinese imports accounted for 11.2 per cent, at $44.2 million and then Suriname at 7.2 per cent ($28.4 million).

However, Guyana’s exports for that same period tell a starkly different story. Guyana exported 40.6 per cent of its produce (US$137.8 million) to Canada, which has several privately owned gold companies operating locally.

Coming in at second was the United Arab Emirates at 10 per cent (US$33.9 million) and then the United States at 8 per cent (US$27.1 million). In an interview with this publication, Tucker noted that the disparities told the story of who are the real beneficiaries of CSME, when it comes to trade and who had the most to lose if Guyana were to exit the framework.

“The disparity in reference to the imbalance of trade between Guyana and the Caribbean, it’s something that needs to be noted. The entire Caribbean refers to Guyana as possibly being the breadbasket of the Caribbean, but yet they have numerous amounts of non-tariff barriers preventing us from attaining that goal.”

“Now if we’re going to continue along this road and those countries want to do trade with Guyana, they need to move those barriers and allow Guyana to enter those markets.

We’re not asking them to lower their standards.

But those are non-tariff

GCCI Tucker

President,

Timothy

Foreign Affairs.”

Caricom

The data published by Guyana’s Bureau of Statistics for the year 2019

barriers. There’s no way to reach a standard to go around that,” he said.

According to Tucker, the removal of non-tariff barriers, which are trade restrictions put in place by countries to protect their own local industries, would create a level playing field in the region for trade.

“Guyana has al-

ways been accommodating and allowing imports from right across the Caribbean. And you can see that from the numbers that were presented… and this is not something new based on CPSO’s response.

This is something we’ve been telling the Guyana Government since Carl Greenidge was Minister of

He pointed out that the Government has a seat at the table with other Caricom leaders and in this sense, is in a position to push for change. But Tucker noted that if there is pushback from the rest of Caricom on the issue of removing non-tariff barriers, the time may be ripe to re-evaluate Guyana’s role in the organisation.

This comes even as the World Bank recently credited Guyana’s growing oil sector with propping up economic growth rate in the Caribbean region.

TURN TO PAGE 7

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MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 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

Dr Martin Luther King’s Message

L

ast Saturday, the US observed “Martin Luther King Day”, the birthday of the great fighter for equality of treatment and opportunity for Americans of African descent. This year’s commemoration was especially significant, coming as it did at a time of a re-evaluation of the progress in race relations that was thought to have ensued in the wake of Dr King’s life’s work. What is clear is privilege and power always seek to defend themselves against the incursions of those that would insist on the inalienable right of all human beings to live in dignity, which is impossible in the face of gross inequalities.

Power and privilege would constantly find ways to reinscribe their insidious relations of domination and submission in the institutions of society, and it behoves those seeking a just world and the “good life” to always be vigilant and ready to struggle. When Martin Luther King was a student in college, he was already deeply troubled by the unequal treatment meted out to African-Americans by the power structure, controlled by White America. Determined to do something about this injustice, he was struck by the message of nonviolent struggle, or “satyagraha”, utilised by Mahatma Gandhi in his fight in India against the British, between 1915-1948.

“Satya” means “truth” and “graha” means “force”, and is proposes an active “truth-force” that is deployed against the forces of oppression. "Nonviolent resistance does resist," Dr King wrote. "It is not a method of stagnant passivity. While the nonviolent resister is passive in the sense that he is not physically aggressive towards his opponent, his mind and emotions are always active, constantly seeking to persuade his opponent that he is wrong. The method is passive physically, but strongly active spiritually. It is not passive non-resistance to evil; it is active nonviolent resistance to evil."

It is of more than passing interest that Gandhi invented satyagraha in South Africa, where he spent twenty years until he returned to India in 1915. In South Africa, he was assailed by the institutionalised racism that manifested itself most egregiously in segregation between the races in transportation and housing. As an Indian professional - he was a lawyer by profession - the South African authorities treated him identically to the indentured Indians who had been brought to work on the sugar plantations and coal mines. His “wakeup call” came when he was kicked off a train to make way for a white South African, even though he had purchased a firstclass ticket.

Dr King and African-Americans such as Rosa Parks would confront an analogous situation in the American South.

While it might not be explicitly acknowledged, modern struggles against inequality, such as “Black Lives Matter”, all take their inspiration from the example of Dr King, and by extension Mahatma Gandhi. Satyagraha contraposes its methodology to the way of violence that is still the dominant reaction to those that defend privilege and power. Satyagraha is very sensitive to means and ends.

"Nonviolence does not seek to defeat or humiliate the opponent, but to win friendship and understanding," King said.

"The nonviolent resister must often express his protest through non-cooperation or boycotts, but he realises that these are not ends themselves; they are merely means to awaken a sense of moral shame in the opponent… The aftermath of nonviolence is the creation of the beloved community, while the aftermath of violence is tragic bitterness."

Dr King summarised his methodology of non-violent resistance in six steps. One begins by becoming thoroughly informed about the injustice, and then educating others about it. Teaching is through action rather than words, and in this way, one transforms oneself. Negotiations are then opened up with opponents, using win-win scenarios, and only if unsuccessful, direct action such as sit-ins, marches, petitions etc, are launched. Finally, as Mandela demonstrated in South Africa, one attempts to reconcile with one’s opponents since, ultimately, we have to live together and build our nation together. Restorative Justice can heal many wounds.

The islands Inver, Borsselen, and Biesen are found 25 to 30 kilometres (15 to 20 mls) from the estuary of the Demerara River. This Michael Charles photo shows the three islands from an aerial view

Be careful what you say Dear Editor, Now that I've been well rested from the Christmas Holidays, I think I am in the right frame of mind to write.

I would like to begin with something that is hot in the news. I am talking about the issue of name-calling, a topic that is certainly not new to us; however, in the present circumstances, the gravity of it calls for some degree of investigation and a clear-cut explanation.

The aim of our investigation is to arrive at a place where our people can eventually have some peace and quiet.

For starters, I must say the issue of name-calling is endemic to the profession. As teachers, we get these cases every single working day. The calling of names is a teacher's everyday cleanup campaign. We encounter such instances on a daily basis; however, the way we deal with them is another matter. In our school system, we try to deal with this subject in a clean, clear and comprehensive manner, taking keen care not to offend victim or offender.

In light of the above, I shall address the latest Guyana issue of name-call-

ing. It all has to do with the naming of persons as trench crappos and jagabats. These are derogatory and downright dehumanising terms to describe another human being, and this matter is taking up an awful lot of time and attention. It has reached the point where a lawsuit has been filed to address the issue.

Calling people names, like I said, is nothing new, and the keywords in this name-calling business have to be examined carefully; that is, referring to the person as behaving "like a/an” offensive person or thing, as against the use of the term "you are" that derogatory person or thing. Whichever side of the spectrum you look at, there certainly must be some clarity brought to bear in these statements.

A teacher was once cautioned by the educational directorate when she referred to a student as behaving like a "Bommez" (a term used here in St Lucia to describe a prostitute). The teacher obviously, after observing the female student's behaviour, concluded that she was acting like a "Bommez". The stu-

dent, who was quite knowledgeable of her rights, approached the Ministry, which later cautioned the teacher to use appropriate language when speaking to, or describing, others in the future. The problem was quickly solved.

Then it behooves us to consider whether the "trench crappo, jagabatt" comment is appropriate. In my book, that comment is highly offensive, and the individual is totally out of place, but Guyana is a strange place, with some strange people hanging around.

But, as my teacher would say to me, you are not like them so you cannot be like them, neither should you burden yourself with their actions.

Come on fella, have a clean-up of your actions. The point I am making is that all the parties involved ought to be respectful of each other when making derogatory comments. We must be respectful of each other even when we disagree with the other person's point of view.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

We must spend where it matters most!

Dear Editor, There was a recent article in the press stating the cost to complete sea defence works. The cost was close to Gy$1M per metre.

The cost of the sea walls in the Netherlands in 1953 was US$2.5B USD for a coastline twice as long as ours. In today's dollars, that cost is approximately 10 times what it was, and conditions of the sea and climate have also worsened.

This means that, at a minimum, Guyana would have to spend US$12.5B on the sea walls along the coastline - a price that we should be willing to pay to get the job done correctly. In addition, the Dutch also revitalised a system of dikes and dams via the Deltaplan, which covers

3700km and uses windmill pumps to manage the seawater.

Given our consistent coastal winds, the use of these pumps would also be beneficial to our system.

These are all additional costs that must be considered. The results have been stellar, and the Dutch have plans to further improve their sea defence system to prevent flooding.

Considering today's climate change situation, we must keep in mind the current frequency and severity of the flooding that is occurring along our coastline, and restructure the infrastructure and budget strategy to reflect this urgent need. Borrowing against future oil earnings is not out of

the question, but those funds must be earmarked for such a project which is focused on building up our sea defences and improving our seawater management system.

This must be given priority over other infrastructure needs. Otherwise, the new roads and new homes would be flooded, defeating the purpose of the investment.

The Dutch engineering and construction firms that were involved in the Netherlands Deltaplan have the experience and capability to develop and implement such a major improvement plan along our coastline; and, as a nation, we should proceed in this direction.

Our local businesses, which are in their infancy and entering this type of engineer-

ing and construction area, should also be allowed to learn from the Dutch companies chosen to lead this project. Maintenance of the system would be easier as a result of developing this local knowledge.

The current administration has many good intentions, and would like to do many things to help our people, but we must continue to make the necessary sacrifices to ensure that the correct priorities are established. Thus, laying a strong foundation that would eliminate the threat of Climate Change, which is currently the greatest threat faced by our nation.

Best regards, Jamil Changlee

NEWS

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MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Works commence to transform Lamaha reserve – President Ali says aim is to promote family spaces in city

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resident Dr Irfaan Ali’s plans to transform the entire Lamaha reserve into a “Guyana Walk” as part of his urban renewal initiative, have started taking shape with preparatory works being undertaken.

The project will see a paved walkway being constructed along the reverse, lined with plants and flowers. The plans also include the rehabilitation and transformation of the old train station at Main and Lamaha Streets into a “Guyanese Railway Promenade” which will also house a local food court, as well as an art and culture section featuring local arts and crafts by Guyanese artists.

This initiative is being spear-

ago. The area has been cleared of debris and levelled. A foundation of sand has been laid.

On Sunday, President Ali visited the location to inspect ongoing works.

Speaking about the project, he told a social media commentator that the aim behind this initiative is to promote “good family spaces” around the capital city that are safe, not only from a security perspective but also from an environmental view. This, he noted, will spark a new sense of love for the environment.

“When this development is completed, it will be a safe zone.

It will have security features; public walk zones. You will

others – to be transformed into family zones as well.

According to the Head of State, this transformation will be replicated throughout the country in the various regions “in which we are going to create safe spaces, environmentally-friendly spaces, beautifying the environment and uplifting the spirits of people.”

In line with his commitment to urban renewal, President Ali had announced in his New Year’s message that his Government intends to lead a national resurgence of sustained public cleanliness that promotes environmental health across the country.

To this end, the President

have a family-oriented space in which you can walk… from Main Street… all the way down [eastwards].”

Simultaneously, President Ali pointed out that other areas around Georgetown have also been identified – such as Durey Lane and the seawall, among

led the commencement of a massive two-day clean-up exercise throughout Georgetown on Saturday. The initiative was supported by the Joint Services, Private Sector, the diplomatic corps, and civil society members.

Addressing media operatives on Saturday, the Head of State

Works underway at the Lamaha reserve

headed by the Public Works Ministry and is being executed in two phases with the first being from Main to Camp Streets, and then onwards to Vlissengen Road in the second phase.

Preparatory works along that section of the Lamaha reserve already commenced over a week

President Dr Irfaan Ali in discussion with contractors and other officials

pointed out that the multi-stakeholder approach sends the message that the responsibility resides in everyone to make a difference.

On this note, the President slammed persons for using the capital city as a dumping ground for garbage and signalled new measures that will be taken to hold errant persons accountable for such actions.

Ali, who is the Commanderin-Chief of the Armed Forces, announced enhanced Police presence and the introduction of surveillance cameras at sites where people continuously dump garbage or deface the country.

Speaking on the prevalence of litterbugs, the President chided, “They have no regard for the environment, for each one of us that lives in this country, because it becomes a public health issue. It’s time we start calling people out. While the Police will be out here, the Government will be working on cameras to be installed at specific locations because some of it is deliberate in action also.”

GPSU: "We are apolitical" Dear Editor, In response to a letter published in Guyana Times newspaper of January 1, 2022, allow me first to congratulate the writer, Ms. Shondell Watson-Park, or whoever it was that assumed the nom de plume, for trying to test the integrity and/or professionalism of the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) in the matter related to the passing of the National Resource Fund Bill 2021.

I must, regardless, suggest to the writer that rushing to judgment is certainly not a quality one should inculcate, as this leaves openings for litigation, and, as demonstrated in this case, betrays the insidious underlying intentions of the mind.

The writer intended to besmirch the character, credibility and integrity of the GPSU, which is an apolitical organisation that does everything to ensure good governance for our

country and peoples, irrespective of ethnicity.

The writer is maliciously misleading when she indicates, “The Union has always had a tarnishing accusatory reputation of always saying exactly what the APNU+AFC says….”

I challenge the writer and the Editor, who selected the sordid caption, to disprove that the GPSU has always advocated good governance, irrespective of which Government is in power, and has always defended professional conduct and public services. It is because of these attributes that the GPSU has suffered at the hands of both the APNU/AFC and PPP/C Governments, unlike some Trade Unions that are openly aligned to political parties and become their mouthpieces.

To deal with the issue of the Union’s defence of its members and/or Public Servants, be it known that this is not done on a “jump

to conclusion basis.” As a matter of principle, and for workers’ protection, the GPSU actively investigated the matter concerning Eon Mc. Pherson, Personal Assistant to the Speaker, even though this employee is not a member of the Union.

This matter has been discussed with Parliament Office staffers, who have offered no evidence to support “kicked, molested and hurled with racial slurs” by “any Member of Parliament.”

Now, given that Ms. Watson-Park has definitively stated that this occurred, the GPSU would be most grateful if she could urgently provide related evidential material to aid the Union in its investigations.

Nevertheless, please remember that those “who live in glass houses should not throw stones.”

Yours sincerely, Dawn Gardener 1st Vice President for President/CEO

The Government initiated this initiative to ensure drastic changes are made to the capital city, to leave a better Guyana for the next generation.

“We all grew up seeing things that we want to change. Now, all Guyanese are actually part of the change that we want to see.

This multi-stakeholder approach is to send a message that the responsibility resides in all of us to make a difference and we’ve started cleaning up the city itself,” the President told media operatives.

Saturday’s efforts saw the cleaning of illegal dumpsites, vacant lots being used for illegal dumping, transporting the garbage collected to landfills, and the weeding and raking of parapets.

These continued on Sunday with the clearing of clogged drains around the city’s commercial zones as well as along the seawall. In addition to cleaning up, volunteers also spruced up the Camp Street avenue.

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MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 2022

Page

Foundation ◄

Converting customary units H

ow many feet are there in six yards? Convert the yards to feet to find out!

This table shows some of the relationships between length, weight, and capacity (volume). You can use these relationships to convert between the units. NB: Guyana’s official measurement system is the metric system; the conversions between the customary units and metric units will be covered later.

How do you convert between customary units?

To convert between customary units, follow these rules: • To convert from a larger unit to a smaller unit, multiply.

• To convert from a smaller unit to a larger unit, divide.

Let's try an example. Convert 6 yards to feet.

You are going from a larger unit to a smaller unit. Multiply by the number of feet in a yard: 3. 6 x 3 =18.

So, 6 yards = 18 feet.

Now, let's convert 80 ounces to pounds.

You are going from a smaller unit to a larger unit. Divide by the number of ounces in a pound: 16. 80 ÷ 16 = 5.

So, 80 ounces = 5 pounds.

Converting customary units with fractions If your units contain fractions, you can still follow the same steps.

Let's try an example. Convert ½ gallon to quarts.

You are going from a larger unit to a smaller unit. Multiply by the number of quarts in a gallon: 4. Remember to write your answer in the simplest form. ½ x 4 = 4/2.

So, ½ gallon = 2 quarts.

Converting mixed customary units Sometimes when you divide to convert customary measurements, you get a remainder. You can use the remainder to write the answer.

Let's try it with an example. Convert 30 inches to feet.

You are going from a smaller unit to a larger unit. Divide by the number of inches in a foot: 12.

30 ÷ 12 = 2 R6 Look at the quotient. The 2 tells the number of feet. The R6 tells the number of extra inches.So, 30 inches = 2 feet, 6 inches.

I

n this fun and easy science experiment for kids, we’re going to turn our reflection upside down.

Spoon

Materials: Instructions:

Take a large spoon with a shiny reflective finish.

Hold the spoon up and look into the scoop area.

Your reflection will be upside down.

How it works:

A regular mirror is flat and sends your reflection straight back into your eyes. The rounded scoop of the spoon bounces your reflection back at different angles and turns your reflection upside down.

Make this a science project:

Try different sized spoons. Try other reflective surfaces that are not flat. Try manipulating sheets of aluminium foil for different reflections. (sciencefun.org)

You think I like all this stupidness gallivanting all night without skin burning myself out like cane –fire To frighten the foolish?

And for what? A few drops of baby blood?

You think I wouldn’t rather take my blood seasoned in fat black-pudding, like everyone else?

And don’t even talk ‘bout the pain of salt And having to bend these old bones down To count a thousand grains of rice!

If only babies didn’t smell so nice!

And if I could only stop Hearing the soft, soft call Of that pure blood running in new veins, Singing the sweet song of life Tempting an old, dry-up woman who been Holding her final note for years, Afraid of the dying hum…

Then again, if I didn’t fly and come to that fresh pulse in the middle of the night, how would you, mother, name your ancient dread, And who to blame for the murder inside your head…?

Believe me – As long as it have women giving birth A poor ol’ higue like me can never dead.

Educational Quote Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today. – Malcolm X

WORD SEARCH

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MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Constitutional reform to get underway soon – Nandlall – expects full participation from stakeholders

A

fter being delayed last year, Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, SC, has disclosed that the constitutional reform process will finally get underway soon.

He made this announcement during last week’s edition of his weekly programme, “Issues In The News”, during which he revealed that he has already requested for a meeting to be held with the Parliamentary Standing Committee For Constitutional Reform.

“We are going to start the constitutional reform process. It was stymied last year because of COVID and a number of other matters.

But I have already requested the National Assembly Committees Division to fix a date for a meeting to be scheduled of the Constitutional Standing Committee on Constitutional Reform and from there, the process will begin to achieve momentum and we will have constitutional reform,” the Attorney General stated.

The Parliamentary

Standing Committee for Constitutional Reform was established under Article 119A of the Constitution, which states that “as soon as may be the beginning of each National Assembly there shall be appointed a Standing Committee for Constitutional Reform for the purpose of the continually reviewing the effectiveness of the working of the Constitution and making periodic reports there on to the National Assembly, with proposal for reform as necessary.”

Guyana getting 'short...'

According to the World Bank in its recently released “Global Economic Prospects” report, the tourism reliant region would see dramatically less growth without the projected doubling of Guyana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate to 49.7 per cent.

As it relates to CPSO, Tucker assured that the Chamber would meet to discuss the regional organisation’s position on Guyana’s local content legislation and a statement would be forthcoming.

On Wednesday last, a leaked email detailed 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 per-

sons 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 Guyanese businessman Suresh Beharry. In the leaked email, it was indicated that the businessman would approach the Guyana Government on behalf of the CPSO. According to a statement on Thursday, the CPSO said it is “the most recently-accredited Associate

FROM PAGE 3

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).

Beharry also issued a statement of his own on Thursday, clarifying that he was not tasked to advocate the CPSO’s position, but merely advised “constructive dialogue and engagement with the Guyana Government and local stakeholders and to avoid any confrontation or disruptive fallout”.

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.

It is noted that the Committee has the power to co-opt experts or enlist the aid of other persons of appropriate expertise, whether or not such experts or other persons are Members of the National Assembly, to assist in its work.

The Committee is expected to have no less than six or more than 10 members nominated by the Committee of Selection.

As it is, Nandlall is the Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee for Constitutional Reform and the other members consist of four Government MPs – Education Minister Priya Manickchand; Culture, Youth and Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr.; Public Service Minister Sonia Parag and Attorney-AtLaw Sanjeev Datadin – as well as four members from the APNU/AFC Opposition – Khemraj Ramjattan, Raphael Trotman, Dr Nicolette Henry, and Amanza Walton-Desir.

Nevertheless, with consultations slated to get commence this year, Nandlall expressed his hope that there will be widespread participation by stakeholders from all quarters. “…All these organisations that are making all these grand and big pronouncements, I hope that they will participate in the process so that we can have a healthy consultative exercise in relation to constitu-

tional reform and the exercise can produce some solid recommendations that we can move forward with,” the Legal Affairs Minister asserted.

President Dr Irfaan Ali has previously declared that the constitutional reforms “must come from the people” hence there will be extensive public consultations.

The need for constitutional, and more so electoral, reforms was underscored following the March 2, 2020, General and Regional Elections, which led to fivemonth tumultuous impasse.

This was as a result of concerted efforts by the former governing APNU/AFC coalition regime and some officials from the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to sway the results.

However, the Election Commission last August terminated former Chief Election Officer Keith Lowenfield, his Deputy Roxanne Myers and Returning Officer for Region Four Clairmont Mingo for their role in this. The trio is currently before the courts facing electoral fraud charges.

Meanwhile, the PPP/C Government, in November last, published the first set of draft electoral reforms with proposed changes to the Representation of the People Act (ROPA) for public consultation before the document is finalised and taken to the National Assembly.

However, there has been

a series of commentary that more needs to be added to the proposed changes. But AG Nandlall had explained that the reform process is two-fold with this first component dealing exclusively with changes to ROPA, that is, the process from the time a date for the election is propagated or proclaimed by the President until the declaration of final results.

The other component, he noted, will deal with the registration of electors, from the time the registration process begins until the Claims and Objections (C&O) exercise.

An overhaul of the country’s electoral laws can see the Chief Elections Officer (CEO) at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) facing as much as life imprisonment for committing fraud while others can similarly face hefty fines and jail time for any related offences.

The draft updated electoral laws also outline a clear process for the request of a recount, including empowering the Chairman of GECOM to grant that request.

Under the proposed laws, the CEO must post the District Tabulation Forms on the Commission’s website as soon as he receives them from the Returning Officers.

Other persons involved in the electoral process can face fines as high as $10 million and can equally be jailed for life if they breach any provisions as outlined in the proposed updated Act.

8 NEWS

MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Former murder accused loses constitutional motion

High Court Judge Damone Younge

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ormer murder accused Colin Bailey has lost his bid to have his almost six years on remand awaiting trial on a murder charge be declared a breach of his constitutional right to a fair trial within a reasonable time.

Bailey, a former Police Sergeant, had been on remand from February 24, 2016 to October 13, 2021, when he was acquitted of the 2013 murder of his reputed wife Sirmattie Ramnaress.

Bailey, 57, and Colin Grant had been jointly charged with murdering the 36-year-old woman. Bailey was acquitted on a no-case submission, while Grant pleaded guilty to the lesser offence of manslaughter and was sentenced to 21 years in prison.

Grant admitted that he acted as the “lookout man”, while his accomplices sneaked into the woman’s home and beat and robbed her, before making good their escape.

Ramnaress was killed between August 30 and 31, 2013 at Diamond, East Bank Demerara (EBD). Her lifeless body was found at around 10:00h on August 31, 2013 at her 21st Avenue Diamond home. Her throat had been slit, head bashed in, and hip disjointed, while the bottom flat of her home had been drenched with kerosene. The woman’s entire house had been ransacked, and firemen had to put out a fire in the garage.

On July 15, 2021, while Bailey was awaiting trial at the Demerara Criminal Assizes, his lawyer Nigel

Hughes filed a constitutional motion seeking, among other things, a declaration that his client’s right to a fair hearing within a reasonable time, as guaranteed by the provisions of Article 144 of the Constitution of Guyana, had been infringed upon, and he sought damages for the said infringement.

A statement from the Attorney General’s Chambers has said the application was served on Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC, only on October 14, 2021 — one day after Bailey was freed of the murder charge, and three months after it had been filed.

The State, in response to Bailey’s application, had, among other things, contended that his criminal proceedings were dealt with expeditiously, and there had been no undue delay in the prosecution of his case, the statement noted. The State, according to the statement, argued that Bailey had failed to prove how his fundamental right to a fair hearing had been breached, and how he had suffered any violation and/or infringement of Article 144.

Bailey’s application was heard and decided on December 13, 2021 by High Court Judge Damone Young, who held that, considering the circumstances of the case, his right to a fair hearing was not infringed. The Judge therefore dismissed his motion.

Colin Bailey (News Room photo)

damages for his unlawful detention, resulting in a breach of his fundamental right to liberty and a fair trial within a reasonable time, as guaranteed under Articles 139 and 144 of the Constitution respectively, and for malicious prosecution. He is also seeking interest on any award for damages, costs, and such further or other order the court sees fit.

Bailey’s lawyer said that on October 8, 2021, during a Case Management Conference after the presentation of the indictment, Justice Jo-Ann Barlow asked the State Counsel appearing

on behalf of the DPP whether there was any evidence disclosed in the depositions which implicated Bailey in the commission of the crime.

The State Counsel, the lawyer added, indicated that there was no evidence disclosed in the depositions which implicated him in the crime. Notwithstanding the admission, Hughes said, the State Counsel still proceeded with a trial against Bailey.

On October 13, 2021, the State Counsel conceded that there was no evidence implicating Bailey in the crime.

Hughes said Justice Barlow upheld his no-case submission and directed the jury to return a formal verdict of not guilty. Hughes contends that the DPP’s actions are egregious and warrant the award of damages.

At a press conference following Bailey’s discharge, Hughes and other lawyers had called for a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the operations of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. They also called for an investigation into how many citizens are in or were in the same state as Bailey, and what is the way forward.

GuySuCo CEO sues Kaieteur News over allegedly libellous articles

Lawsuit

Following his acquittal, Bailey filed a lawsuit in which he sought damages totalling $100.6M for his unlawful detention. Listed as respondents in the action are Nandlall and Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Shalimar Ali-Hack, SC. Apart from seeking exemplary damages for the loss of $8 million in income during his 67 months on remand, Bailey is also seeking damages for his wrongful arrest and detention; wrongful preferment of a murder charge against him, when there was no basis for doing so; and his wrongful detention for a period in excess of five years.

The former Policeman also wants the court to award him

GuySuCo CEO Sasenarine Singh

Kaieteur News Publisher Glenn Lall

aieteur News is yet again facing another libel suit; this time, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), Sasenarine Singh, has filed a Statement of Claim in which he is seeking more than $100,000 in damages for libel contained in a series of articles published by the daily newspaper.

Singh, through Senior Counsel Timothy Jonas, has complained that between December 16 and 28, 2021, Kaieteur News embarked on a campaign to tarnish his reputation with the publication of a series of statements disguised as letters to the editor.

Singh said the statements were published in the newspaper’s print and online versions.

K

TURN TO PAGE 15

The big cleanup…

B

…of Georgetown’s muck ack when the Gods walked among us, a fella named Sisyphus tried to trick the God of Death. Now, he knew everyone has to die sooner or later – or else they’d be gods, no? So, to punish him for his impertinence, he was condemned to push a huge boulder up a hill – only to have it roll down to its base. And he had to start over again and again for all eternity. Exercise in futility?

Well, it appears that our national capital, Georgetown, is the “rock” the PPP has been condemned to push up a hill for eternity. Seems they’ve been punished for the impertinence of winning national elections!! THEY have to try cleaning up our “Garbage City” again and again - only to see it revert into filth after each cleaning. The latest attempt is ongoing even as your Eyewitness pecks away at his much-abused keyboard!!

There he was, President Ali, in front of a host of business types, well-intentioned citizens - and even elements of the army - raking up garbage and having it hauled away to the dump site. When this clean-up idea was first broached, the Opposition PNC had fumed indignantly, “How dare our fighting men be reduced to such ‘indignity?”!! They’re presumably on a war alert against Venezuela! The PNC’s Mayor and City Council (M&CC) - whose responsibility it is to keep our city clean - one-upped its parent body and called for a BOYCOTT of the clean up!! That’s right… they’d rather wallow in the muck!! To keep their minds in synch with their bodies!?!

But, seriously folks, how much longer are we gonna launch these “clean-up campaigns”?? Didn’t the PNC do one when they became the Government in 2015?? There were reams of paper written about “Georgetown transformed back into the Garden City it once was”. But then, as sure as the sun rises in the east, the Sisyphean curse manifested itself!! So, we gotta conclude that the fault, dear readers, lies with the M&CC! They’ve trotted out the usual excuse about the Central Government not giving them enough subventions. But we all know that’s a crock, don’t we? Didn’t the PNC Govt cough up huge subventions? The fact of the matter is that City Hall had not just become a boondoggle even before Hamilton Green sneaked in – but a boondoggle run by a nest of vipers!! Imagine the CENTRAL GOVERNMENT being sued for US$100MILLION over the parking meter scam PNC Mayor Patricia Chase-Green and her Town Clerk King tried to pull off!! Who’re enjoying their loot!!

So, what to do?? Your Eyewitness suggests a solution from Hercules - another Greek story.

Divert the Demerara River every now and then to wash over the city!! …GECOM Walter Rodney ironically called Burnham “King Midas”.

While everything King Midas touched turned to gold, Burnham’s touch turned things to shi*t!! Well, among the things he touched was GECOM – even BEFORE it was named “GECOM”!! He started the rot over there as far back as 1967 when he corrupted Chairman Harry Bollers to rig the 1968 elections.

Well, at long last, it looks like we might stand a chance of cleaning up that Augean Stables. While everyone was looking at the high profile GECOM Commission – with its precariously balanced political appointees and a Chair, the canker had set into the GECOM Secretariat. They were the ones that actually handled the grubby day-to-day matters - as well on election day. Last March, the veil was snatched away due to the miracle of smart phones - and we saw that the Devil WAS in the details!!

The PPP Government has circulated its proposals for reform, with penalties for violations – but the PNC has submitted nothing!

They’d prefer the status quo!! Natch!! …the City Staff Two weeks ago, the Mayor voted to fire the City Engineer for “poor performance”. So, does that mean they’ll now fire more than half of the city employees for “ABYSMAL performance”?

What’s sauce for the goose…!

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

NEWS

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MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Ailing baby dies after receiving medical treatment at Skeldon Hospital …investigation underway

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he Regional Health Services Department has launched an investigation into the death of a 4-month-old baby at the Skeldon Hospital on Friday.

The infant was reportedly administered two injections by different doctors at the medical facility.

The dead child is Dona Samaroo also called “Alissa” of Grant 2767 Crabwood Creek, Corentyne, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).

Reports are that the infant was given one injection and sent away but was taken back to the medical facility after her condition worsened and it was then a second injection was administered by another doctor.

The child’s grandmother, Kamlawattie Radreevs, revealed that the infant was unwell and was taken to a doctor at her private clinic on Thursday but after her condition worsened on Friday, they took her to the Skeldon Hospital.

She said the infant started vomiting on Thursday, causing them to rush her to a private institution.

“About 10 o’clock the next morning she na feel well and we rush with her to

Parents, Geetangalie Bissoondyal and Charan Samaroo

Dead: Dona Samaroo, also called “Alissa”

Well, the doctor tell me that she got to get a next injection because the child gone low already.”

Radreevs said she was asked to take her granddaughter into a room as she witnessed the doctor administering the second injec-

The Skeldon Hospital

the Skeldon Hospital and a reach one doctor. Me tell he that she had lil blowing and vomiting,” the woman stated.

According to Radreevs, the doctor examined the child and then prescribed an injection and some other medication which she later learned was gravel to ease the vomiting.

On their way home, however, the baby lost consciousness and they immediately took her back to the Skeldon Hospital.

“Me an me husband go in and tell them that we bring back this child … she already get one injection.

placed under observation, the family subsequently left without any further evaluation being done on the child.

At no point in time was [the child] discharged from our care or given any vaccines,” the statement said in part while adding that the infant

Regional Health Officer (RHO) Dr Vishalya Sharma

tion.

“When they give she de injection about one minute, the child died,” she stated in tears.

Meanwhile, in response to an article in the media, Regional Health Officer (RHO), Dr Vishalya Sharma in a release to the press on Sunday said the matter is being investigated but also distanced the hospital from being responsible for the death.

“The child was previously under the care of a private practitioner. The child upon arrival at our medical facility was assessed by a doctor on duty and was given initial treatment. After she was

subsequently returned to the Skeldon Hospital.

“The same day the mother returned with a child to the institution in a worsened condition. The team on duty at the time performed CPR to no success. Initial reports suggest that the family after leaving the institution took the child a religious leader,” the release added.

However, the dead child’s mother, Geetangalie Bissoondyal, after being asked to respond to the allegations in the release from the RHO, explained that her only child was taken to a private medical practitioner

the day before she died.

She also revealed that they met the same doctor who is running the private clinic the first time they took the child to the Skeldon Hospital.

“The one doctor that looked after her the morning at the hospital looked her after at the private clinic.”

Bissoondyal said her daughter did not receive any injections when she was

taken to the private clinic.

Instead, a liquid medication was prescribed but the infant could not use any of it because she was vomiting it out.

Meanwhile, when asked for the duplicate prescription which they would have received from the hospital, Radreevs said they only received one for the medication (gravel) and after the child passed away, the doc-

tor asked for it to examine it and did not give it back to her.

On Sunday, the RHO and a regional team from Crabwood Creek visited the family and were asked to produce the books which record injections that were administered to patients.

However, Sharma reportedly told family members that the matter is being investigated.

10 NEWS

MONDAY JANUARY 17, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

One day after massive clean-up

Police seek litterbug who dumped garbage in Durey Lane

O

ne day after a major clean-up exercise was executed in Georgetown through the Private Sector and Joint Services, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) is now tasked with arresting the perpetrator(s) who dumped garbage along Durey Lane, Campbellville, Georgetown.

The garbage was reportedly dumped along the area which was cleared during the cleaning of the city led

by His Excellency President Dr Irfaan Ali. In a press statement, the Police underscored that they are currently conducting an investigation, including the reviewing of CCTV cameras, aimed at identifying the person or persons responsible for littering in the city through the unlawful disposal of garbage.

The Guyana Police Force is cautioning members of the public that it is unlawful to dump garbage in the city of Georgetown and its environs, and anyone found doing so will face the full force of the law.

The garbage that was left along Durey Lane, Campbellville, Georgetown

The Private Sector Commission (PSC) over the weekend partnered with the Government of Guyana and the Joint Services to carry out a massive clean-up of the city of Georgetown.

Some 13 communities were targeted to be part of the initiative, which saw the cleaning of illegal dumpsites, weeding and raking of parapets.

President Dr Irfaan Ali during the exercise noted that there were 25

sites in total throughout Georgetown that were targeted.

Additionally, Government will be installing surveillance cameras throughout the city to capture those litterbugs who are intent on defacing the city.

According to President Ali, this initiative to make Georgetown safe and clean is all part of his Administration’s plans to ensure the city is conducive for families.

Duo remanded on separate robbery charges

T

wo men were remanded to prison on Friday when they appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to answer to separate robbery charges.

Appearing before Magistrate Annette Singh were 23-year-old Anfernee Archer of Dowding Street, Kitty, Georgetown, and car wash operator, Desmond McPherson called “Baby Boy”, 29.

Archer pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that on January 13, 2022, at Kitty Seawall, Georgetown, he robbed Shania Boodram of an electronic tablet and Mark Vanbield of a Samsung Galaxy phone.

Meanwhile, McPherson also denied the charge which alleged that on January 11, 2022 at Lombard Street, Georgetown, while be-

Remanded: Desmond McPherson Remanded: Anfernee Archer

ing armed with a knife, he robbed Atisha Glasgow of a Samsung Galaxy Note 9 cell phone.

The Police prosecutor opposed both men being granted bail on the ground that they pose a risk of flight.

According to the prosecutor, Boodram identified Archer as being the person who

robbed her and the items were recovered in his possession.

The prosecutor told the court that McPherson was previously charged with a similar offence. In brief remarks to the court, McPherson, however, denied robbing anyone. Both McPherson and Archer were remanded to prison until March 4.

Women robbed by knifetoting bandits at Eccles

T

wo women were left traumatised after they were robbed by two knife-toting bandits at Old Road, Eccles, East Bank Demerara (EBD), on Saturday.

While there are no official reports from the Police about the incident, Guyana Times understands that the women were standing alongside the road when a motorcycle carrying the two men pulled up in front of them.

Video footage seen by this publication showed the pillion rider jumping off the

motorcycle, approaching the women, and relieving them of their belongings.

The suspects subsequently made good their escape.

Since the incident,

Guyana Times has made several efforts to get details on the incident from the Guyana Police Force’s Public Relation Unit, but all efforts proved futile.

NEWS

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MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 2022| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Use of oil funds finally begins this year – GNBS to begin testing Guyana’s crude oil this month

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or many, a pressing question since Guyana received its first oil payment in 2020 has been when will Guyanese benefit directly from the oil revenue. Since it came to power in August 2020, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Government has steadily refused to touch the money until a transparent system for withdrawals was set up.

The recently passed Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Act has now set up such a system, allowing for the Government to make withdrawals from the Fund, overseen by Parliament and a Board of Directors, in order to finance urgent development needs for the country – including one early withdrawal in the first fiscal year of the Act. This is according to Part IV, Section 17 (2) of the Act, which states that “In the first fiscal year that this Act comes into operation, notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (1) and of the first schedule, the ceiling on the amount that may be withdrawn shall be the total

When the Liza Unity FPSO begins oil production this year, it will find the GNBS prepared for the additional workload

balance accumulated in the account described as “the Natural Resource Fund” as at the date that the Act comes into operation.”

Guyana ended the year 2021 with over US$600 million in the NRF, after a total of five oil lifts from the Liza Destiny Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel for the year.

This means that the year 2022, the first fiscal year with the Act in place, will

see the Government being able to withdraw over US$600 million from the fund.

The Act is also clear on what the money can be spent on. Section 16 (2) states that “All withdrawals from the Fund shall be deposited into the Consolidated Fund and shall be used only to finance (a) national development priorities including any initiative aimed at realising an inclusive green economy

Edghill blames M&CC for illegal dumpsites in Georgetown

Overseas-based Guyanese Everlyn Agard

P

ublic Works Minister, Bishop Juan Edghill said he is disappointed with the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) for allowing prominent areas to become illegal dumpsites.

The Minister was among several Cabinet members on Sunday, who participated in the massive cleanup campaign organised by the Joint Services and the Private Sector, with support from the Government.

Minister Edghill observed tons of garbage being pulled out and dumped into trucks from Savage Street, Georgetown. The road links Robb and Regent Streets.

“The volume of garbage that is here speaks to two things. One; the neglect by the Mayor and City

Public Work Minister Juan Edghill and a member of the Guyana Defence Force during the cleaning exercise on Sunday

Council first of all to enforce; and secondly, remove solid waste from the city,” Minister Edghill told DPI. He said the amount of solid waste removed from the passageway was not accumulated over weeks or months. “…this is years of gar-

bage. A pile that is five to six feet high in the air on a street that is maybe 30 meters long, it (was) allowed to happen with a Constabulary that is enforced [and] with laws that are enforced,” he added.

TURN TO PAGE 16

and (b) essential projects that are directly related to ameliorating the effect of a major natural disaster.”

The Stabroek Block is 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometres). Exxon, through subsidiary Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), is the operator and holds 45 per cent interest in the block.

Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd holds 30 per cent interest, and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CNOOC Limited, holds the remaining 25 per cent interest.

GNBS

Guyana, with US oil giant ExxonMobil as the operator, began producing oil on December 20, 2019, in the Stabroek Block. It turns out that while oil exploration and production have been going on, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) has

been quietly building its capacity to test the quality of Guyana’s crude.

In a press release, GNBS announced that from this month, it would begin testing crude oil produced in Guyana’s waters, while adhering to the American Petroleum Institute (API) Standards. This comes after the agency would have acquired additional equipment.

“Crude testing would be done to determine Density and Viscosity, Basic Sediments and Water, Salt in Crude, Hydrogen Sulphur in Crude, and Water Content. The GNBS with support from the Government of Guyana and other partners in Standardisation will continue to directly ensure that its measurement and testing services are provided onshore and offshore to protect the interest of the people of Guyana,” GNBS explained in its statement.

According to the Bureau, it has steadily built the capacity that allowed it to set up its Oil and Gas Department last year. And with the expected start of production on board the Liza Unity Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel this year, the Bureau has hired six additional inspectors.

“Investments were made to train and build the competence of both its old and new Oil and Gas Inspectors for them to effectively and efficiently serve the sector.

Inspectors were exposed to both practical and theoretical aspects of measurement

and safety standards and principles,” GNBS said.

Oil revenue

Guyana’s oil revenues are being banked in the New York Federal Reserve Bank, where they are earning interest. In August 2021, Guyana received payment for its seventh oil lift to the tune of US$79,617,561.87.

The Natural Resources Ministry has stated that this payment was for 1,047,820 barrels of oil, which was extracted from the Liza Destiny FPSO vessel on July 3, 2021.

The seventh oil lift brought the country’s oil extraction to a grand total of 7,056,262 barrels, and accumulative earnings to US$388,777,840.

Guyana received its first payment of US$54.9 million for an oil lift dated February 19, 2020. The second lift, on May 21, 2020, was valued at US$35 million; while the third lift, which occurred on August 9, 2020, was worth US$46 million.

The fourth lift of oil offshore Guyana occurred on December 9, 2020, and came in at US$49.4 million in value. And on February 5, 2021, some 997,420 barrels of oil were lifted from Liza Destiny in the fifth lift.

A sum of US$61 million was paid for that lift.

Guyana officially completed its fifth and final oil lift for 2021 (and eighth overall) in November, with a little over one million barrels of oil being lifted from the Liza Destiny FPSO vessel and sold by Saudi Aramco.

12

MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 202

Massive clean-up exercis

22 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

13

se in Georgetown: Day 2

14 NEWS

MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

3-mth, 6-Y-O girls among 9 more COVID deaths – active cases surpass 10,000 with 1082 new infections

A

three-month-old baby and a six-yearold, both girls, have died after testing positive for the novel coronavirus, which continues to ravage the country.

The baby, who hailed from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), died on Friday last while the older child from Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) died Monday last.

Currently, Guyana is only administering COVID-19 vaccines to persons 12 years and above hence these two girls were not vaccinated against the virus.

The other seven COVID-19 fatalities reported by the Ministry of Health on Sunday are a 72-year-old woman from Region Three who was fully vaccinated and died since January 1; a 70-year-old male also from the Essequibo Islands-West Demerara region, whose vaccination status is unknown but died on January 7; a 63-year-old man from Region Three who died on January 9 and at the time, his vaccination status was also unknown; another male, aged 62, from the

Demerara-Mahaica region, who was fully vaccinated and died on Saturday last; a 61-year-old male also from Region Four, who was fully vaccinated as well but died on Sunday; a 49-yearold fully vaccinated man, also from Region Four, who died on Saturday, and a 45-year-old woman from Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), who was fully vaccinated and died on Saturday also.

With these, the total number of deaths from the pandemic in Guyana has gone up to 1095.

Consequently, the death toll for the year thus far is now 40.

However, new statistics released by the Ministry showed the rapid surge in COVID-19 cases continues in Guyana with a whopping 1082 new infections detected within a 24-hour period, taking active cases in the country to over 10,000 on Sunday.

According to the Health Ministry’s updated COVID-19 dashboard for Sunday, the total number of confirmed cases in Guyana has gone up to 51,203.

Of this, however, a staggering 10,575 are current-

ly active cases. These include 12 patients in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and the remaining 10,563 persons are in isolation, that is, 164 in institutional isolation and the remaining 10,399 in home isolation.

There are another five persons are also in institutional quarantine, according to the dashboard.

Additionally, some 39,533 persons have recovered from the life-threatening disease to date – 231 more recoveries than the figure reported the previous day.

Since the outbreak of COVID-19 in the country, approximately 470,617 persons have been tested so far and of this, some 23,801 males and 27,402 females were found to be positive.

Of the 1082 new cases reported on Sunday, five were from Region One (Barima-Waini), 14 cases from Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), 193 from the Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara region, a whopping 670 cases from the Demerara-Mahaica region, 37 from Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), another 38 cases from the

GUYANA COVID-19 DASHBOARD JANUARY 16, 2022 UPDATE

NUMBER OF NEW CASES NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL ISOLATION NUMBER OF PERSONS IN HOME ISOLATION NUMBER OF PERSONS IN COVID-19 ICU

1082 164 10,399 12

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL QUARANTINE

5

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (FEMALES)

27,402

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (MALES)

23,801

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES IN GUYANA SINCE 2020

51,203

NUMBER OF RECOVERED CASES

39,533

TOTAL 1st DOSE VACCINATED FULLY IMMUNISED

REGION 1

1821

REGION 2

1897

REGION 3

6667

REGION 4

25,508

REGION 5

1834

REGION 6

4711

REGION 7

2158

REGION 8

666

REGION 9

3022

REGION 10

2919

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

416,994 303,373

TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES SINCE MARCH 2020

1095

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.

East Berbice-Corentyne, 10 more from Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), eight from Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), 67 cases from Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and the remaining 40 cases from Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

Health authorities have attributed the rapid rise in COVID-19 cases over the past three weeks to the Omicron variant, which though not deadly is highly transmissible.

As such, persons are being urged to get vaccinated, and for those who are qualified to get their booster shots, in order to add a layer of protection against the virus.

So far, over 416,000 adults or 81.3 per cent have taken a first dose while more than 303,000 or 59.1 per cent of persons 18 and over are fully immunised.

For children between the ages of 12 to 17, some 22,000 or 30.6 per cent are completely vaccinated. Meanwhile, over 24,000 persons have taken their booster dose.

But as more people continue to get vaccinated, authorities are urging the public to continue observing all COVID-19 preventative measures, particularly masking in public, social distancing and frequent hand washing and sanitising – which are more significant now with the rap-

idly-spreading Omicron variant.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) recent figures, some 318,648,834 confirmed cases were reported globally along with 5,518,343 deaths.

The WHO also reported that in the Region of the Americas, that is, Latin America and the Caribbean, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases has increased to 116,725,540 while the death toll in the region has gone up to 2,440,032.

As it relates to vaccination against COVID-19, a total of 9,283,076,642 doses have been administered worldwide.

15 Citizens deserve consistent sentences from court – AG NEWS

MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

– says sentencing guidelines to be introduced by mid-2022

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he Government will be looking to introduce sentencing guidelines by mid-2022 in Guyana, setting out a guide for the Judiciary that will prevent them from dispensing heavily disproportionate sentences on those convicted of crimes.

This was revealed in an interview with Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC. According to Nandlall, this is part of a project being undertaken between the Attorney General Chambers and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).

He noted that many countries have sentencing guidelines and the time has come for Guyana to join in this measured approach to justice.

“The Ministry of Legal Affairs and the Attorney General’s Chambers, is spearheading a project which includes the hiring of a consultant for the drafting of sentencing guidelines.

In fact, there is a public advertisement currently out, in accordance with IADB stipulations, because they are the funding agency, seeking to enlist the services of a consultant to undertake the project, which is to draft sentencing guidelines.”

“Sentencing is a complex legal issue and persons have been complaining about inconsistent sentencing, as well as harsh sentences, and in some cases, they have

been complaining about the minor nature of sentences so it’s a complicated exercise,” the AG also said.

Nandlall noted that there should be guiding principles governing the court for particular offences, ensuring continuity and consistency. He gave as an example someone being charged in different parts of Guyana but their sentences differing drastically.

According to the Senior Counsel, this should not happen unless there is a special circumstance. Nandlall emphasized that the public is entitled to a reasonable expectation of what sentence they are likely to get, for specific offences.

“A man gets charged with larceny of a rear-view mirror or a fender from a vehicle in Lethem and he does so on the East Coast of Demerara, the Magistrate in Lethem and the Magistrate on the East Coast of Demerara, their sentences or their penalties imposed, should not vary vastly, unless you have some special or peculiar circumstance that differentiates the two offences,” he said.

The Government and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) recently signed a loan agreement for intervention in Guyana’s justice sector. As such, the Support for Criminal Justice System (SCJS) programme seeks to address institutional issues which affect the country’s

Prosecutions of Guyana, the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) stressed the need for sentencing guidelines to be developed and published by the Judiciary of Guyana, noting that the absence of such is a disservice to trial Judges.

“This appeal underscores the urgent need for the Judiciary of Guyana to

Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC

criminal justice system.

Part of the loan will go towards consulting services.

The SCJS programme is seeking the services of a consulting firm that is qualified and has relevant experience in sentencing guidelines, encompassing diversion and alternative sentencing options.

The consulting firm will be required to draft, and support the implementation of a comprehensive set of sentencing guidelines that reflects suitable diversions and alternative sentencing options for all, including adults, juveniles, and children.

In a judgement delivered in May 2020 in the case of Linton Pompey vs the Director of Public

GuySuCo CEO sues...

Singh is also seeking an injunction restraining Kaieteur News, whether by its servants and/or agents, or any of them whomsoever, from further publishing or causing to be published the words complained of, or any other words to the same or any similar effect; and he is seeking costs, interest and such further or other order the court sees fit.

In his 13-page claim, Singh referred to the statements, which he noted were “published falsely and maliciously”, and which were libellous of, and concerning him personally, and in the way of his post as CEO of GuySuCo. By the words contained in the statements cumulatively, Singh has said, Kaieteur News has implied that he participated in a fraudulent, secret, and corrupt scheme to procure for,

and to use for his personal benefit and in breach of his duties as CEO, resources, both financial and human, belonging to the corporation.

He said, too, that the publications suggest that he has participated in a secret and corrupt scheme to take control of the resources of GuySuCo for his personal benefit, wrongly and unlawfully, and in breach of his duties as CEO. Singh complained that the publications infer that he used unlawful and/or unethical means, including intimidation and public harassment, to procure the removal from the employment of that company senior management employees whom he perceived to be independent of his personal control, and replacing them with less qualified personnel who were personally loyal and obedi-

FROM PAGE 8

ent to him.

The CEO has said the publications suggest that he was entering transactions that were detrimental to the corporation for personal profit in breach of fiduciary duty, was dishonest, and was an unethical person in the course of his professional duties. Singh deposed that his character, credit, and reputation have been seriously injured and brought into public scandal, odium and contempt because of the libel.

He argues that the publications have caused him serious public embarrassment, ridicule, odium, and injury to his reputation, both nationally and internationally, and both personally in his official and professional capacities.

This lawsuit was filed last week Monday at the High Court in Demerara.

publish sentencing guidelines. The publication of sentencing guidelines would undoubtedly play a key role in building public trust and confidence in the Judiciary and in promoting the rule of law,” CCJ Judge Maureen Rajnauth-Lee had said.

Several states throughout the Caribbean Community have established such sen-

tencing guidelines including Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago. In Guyana, on the other hand, there is no statute or regulation guiding Judges and Magistrates in imposing a sentence on a person found guilty of an offence. In the absence of these guidelines, the imposition of a sentence is largely at the judicial officers’ discretion.

Residents outside of Georgetown must help to preserve city’s cleanliness – Min Hamilton

C

itizens who live outside of the capital city are being urged to upkeep their responsibility to maintain the city of Georgetown in a clean and pristine state.

This plea was made by Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton after he had participated in the two-day clean-up campaign across the capital city on Saturday and Sunday.

On Saturday, the exercise was led by President Irfaan Ali and was joined by the Prime Minister Mark Phillips and other Cabinet members, who fanned out to various sections of the city. The initiative was undertaken by the Joint Services and the Private Sector, with support from the Government.

Minister Hamilton has said the initiative served as a start to restoring Georgetown to its ‘garden city’ status.

“This city is our identity. It has nothing to do with what shirt we wear and which political party we belong to. When people (are) cursing Guyanese, they don’t differentiate.

They would say they went to a place named Guyana, and the city is atrocious… we have to change that,” Hamilton asserted.

“We hope that citizens would help us to continue to keep this place clean.

[And] not just citizens in Georgetown, people who come into Georgetown…

So, we would hope that people who also come into the city will recognise that they have a duty and responsibility to ensure that this city is kept clean,” he explained.

Minister Hamilton has said the initiative would be

Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton participated in the two-day clean-up campaign over the weekend

extended to other towns in the country in an effort to beautify the country as a whole.

“We hope that the other Town Councils…they recognise that they also have a duty to the people who pay taxes…and this will not stop, this will only intensify for the beautification of this country,” the Minister has said.

He referred to Government’s plan to create a family-oriented city through the transformation of areas into walk-in food courts and art exhibits. One such transformation is planned for the embankment area along

Lamaha Street, from Main Street to Camp Road.

Hamilton noted that the clean-up initiative only serves as the first part of a bigger picture, as the PPP/C Government moves towards its mandate of vast infrastructural development throughout the country.

“This clean-up will be memorable. It’s not just a cleanup, it is cleaning up and creating space where people can exhibit things that are Guyanese, whether food or culture and arts; where families can come out with their children and enjoy sceneries of Guyana,” Hamilton highlighted.

16 NEWS

MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

In light of climate change

Farmers must adopt new, innovative ways to cultivate – Min Mustapha 25 shade houses will be built under the programme.

“We are forming a company and these young people will be shareholders.

We will help them to plant these high-value crops. We have a ready market in Guyana.”

The Minister noted that for the year 2019, Guyana imported $1.5 billion in

those three high-value crops and last year, $2.6 billion.

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. Guyana spends about US$60 million annually to import corn, broccoli, carrots, soya, and cauli-

flower.

He noted that the Government is currently looking at barriers that prevent some local farmers from exporting to Caricom countries.

Already Guyana has started to export pineapples, bananas, avocado and tangerines to Barbados and St Vincent once again.

Edghill blames M&CC...

A

One of the shade houses

griculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha is encouraging farmers in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) to adopt new and innovative ways to produce their crops so as to combat the negative effects of climate change.

Climate change has resulted in warmer days and more frequent rainfall.

With Guyana being below sea level, the impact of continuous rainfall could be devastating to farmers as happened last year when there was a country-wide flood.

In this regard, the Agriculture Minister is en-

couraging farmers to adapt.

“We are now seeing the real effect of climate change and so, we cannot do things in the same old way and want new results. We have to do things in a smarter way and in a better way and in more innovative and scientific ways and in more modern ways to get better results.”

Hence, the Ministry of Agriculture is promoting agriculture in smarter ways.

Mustapha said his Ministry is encouraging farmers to erect greenhouses.

These shade houses, he pointed out, would also be good for “high-value crops”

such as carrots, cauliflower and broccoli.

“Since we have resumed Government to now, we have built over 150 shade houses around the country to help farmers to produce their crops in a better way.”

Two of them are on the East Bank of Berbice and a third is to be constructed shortly.

The Ministry, he pointed out, is willing to assist any farmer who needs help in constructing a shade house.

Meanwhile, Mustapha noted that university degree holders who are unemployed are being invited to join the Ministry’s shade house programme. Initially

The Public Works Minister called on citizens to be more responsible and work in unison to ensure the city remains clean.

“Durey Lane, which some 52 truckloads of garbage were removed during Thursday and Friday, there is garbage there this morning.

Apart from the neglect of the Mayor and City Council, we have to have a mind change, a mentality change. People have got to understand, we have to take responsibility,” the Minister stressed.

The Government wants to clear the area to allow drivers plying the East Coast route to occupy the space. This will allow com-

muters to traverse the thoroughfare freely without encountering traffic congestion.

Meanwhile, a number of residents have called on their fellow Guyanese to take a new approach to keep the nation’s roadways and communities clean, as the country moves ahead.

Travelling from Essequibo, Rudolph Glasgow said he is enjoying the city’s new fresh air and urged persons to desist from littering the environment.

“People just have to keep their garbage in their bags and just don’t litter. it’s just simple, nothing too hard,” the young bar-

FROM PAGE 11

ber advised.

Chief Executive Officer of Natural Fiber, Fashion and Art Association, Carol Fraser believes “…we need to do a programme now to change the mindset of our people, our young people and how they treat our environment.”

An overseas-based Guyanese, Everlyn Agard said the Government should implement serious consequences for persons who are found littering.

“I think they should keep this up and impose penalties for illegal dumping. They’re doing a wonderful work this morning and I think it should be kept up by the citizens of Guyana,” she emphasised.

The poor die from COVID while the rich get richer, Oxfam warns

T

he wealth of the 10 richest men has doubled during the coronavirus pandemic, stoking inequality that contributes to the deaths of at least 21,300 people each day, according to a new report released on Monday from Oxfam International.

“We enter 2022 with unprecedented concern,” Oxfam’s Inequality Kills (to add link) report warns, arguing that the current global state of extreme inequality is a form of “economic violence” against the world’s poorest people and nations.

In this deeply unequal world, structural and systemic policy and political choices are skewed in favour of the richest and most powerful, resulting in harm to the majority of ordinary people around the world, said the report, which highlighted the COVID-19 vaccine divide as a prime example.

“Millions of people would still be alive today if they had had a vaccine — but they are dead, denied a chance while big pharmaceutical corporations continue to hold monopoly control of these technologies,” said Oxfam.

The report calculates that 252 men have more wealth than all one billion women and girls in Africa and Latin America and the Caribbean combined.

And 10 of the world’s richest men own more than the least affluent 3.1 billion people.

Moreover, while the rich got a whole lot richer during the pandemic, the incomes of 99 per cent of humanity suffered.

Oxfam’s report is usually released prior to the World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland – but the gathering of the world’s richest and most powerful has been postponed again this year due to the pandemic.

Last week, WEF released its Global Risks Report 2022 warning that the lopsided economic recovery from the coronavirus, much of which has relied on the roll-out of vaccinations, has deepened divisions within and between nations.

It also stressed that growing inequality, made worse by the pandemic, is sure to cause additional tensions, resentments and further complicate nations’ responses to climate

A group of 252 men have more wealth than all one billion women and girls in Africa and Latin America and the Caribbean combined, a new report from Oxfam says [Angela Ponce/Reuters]

change, economic disparities and social instabilities.

Despite efforts by the United Nations and governments over the last several decades to tackle poverty, and more evenly distribute technology and access to education, the world has been heading towards severe inequality for decades.

“These present-day divides are directly linked to historical legacies of racism, including slavery and colonialism,” the Oxfam report said.

The report notes that since 1995, the world’s top

one-percenters have captured nearly 20 times more of global wealth than the bottom 50 per cent. And the pandemic has made things much worse.

Low interest rates and government stimulus designed to help economies recover from 2020’s COVID-19 blow have also stoked prices for stocks and other assets, making the wealthy even wealthier.

“The trillions poured into financial markets by central banks to save the economy have led to an explosion in billionaire wealth

– it is the biggest increase in history – while the pandemic has left ordinary people poorer than they would have been if it had never happened,” Gabriela Bucher, executive director of Oxfam, told Al Jazeera.

Wealth inequality does not just harm people. It hurts the planet as well.

Twenty of the richest billionaires are estimated to be emitting as much as 8000 times more carbon than the billion poorest people, according to Oxfam.

People who live in lowand-middle-income coun-

tries are around twice as likely to die from COVID-19 infection as people who live in rich countries, according to research cited by Oxfam.

In some countries, the poorest people are nearly four times more likely to die from COVID-19, Oxfam says.

“Many have lost their jobs and millions have lost their lives. Women, racialised groups and citizens of the Global South are hardest hit,” Bucher told Al Jazeera.

Oxfam argues that governments have the power to radically change course and blunt “economic violence” at its roots by laying the foundation for a more equal world.

A good start, it says, is to impose a one-off windfall tax on the COVID-19 gains of the 10 richest men, which would generate US$812 billion, according to the report.

“We need to claw back this incredible billionaire bonanza with new wealth and capital taxes. It is simple, common sense: tax the super-rich and spend the money on nurses, on hospitals and on vaccines,” Bucher told Al Jazeera.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

guyanatimesgy.com

MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 2022

17

Feature HEALTH TIPS

STAYING HEALTHY FOR 2022 ing in and hearing negative body talk is associated with higher levels of body dissatisfaction and decreased self-esteem in both women and men. Make a healthy New Year’s resolution to engage in positive selftalk regularly, and reduce negative body talk. This may not only help improve the relationship with one’s own body, but also encourage others to stop talking negatively about themselves.

more meals at home using healthy ingredients.

1: Rethink dieting

Dr. Tariq Jagnarine Family Medicine, Endocrinology/Diabetes

H

ealth is always a priority heading into a new year, but amid the COVID-19 pandemic, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is more important than ever. Continuing from last week, here are some additional tips to be healthy.

Many people rely on convenience foods, such as packaged chips, cookies, frozen dinners and fast food, for a quick meal or snack.

Though these items may be tasty and readily available, they can have detrimental effects on your health if eaten too often.

For example, frequent fast- food intake is associated with poor overall diet quality, obesity, and an increased risk of numerous conditions, including heart disease and diabetes. To cut back on the consumption of convenience foods, make a resolution to prepare

Chronic dieting is harmful to both physical and mental health. Plus, most people who lose weight through restrictive dieting regain up to two-thirds of the weight lost within one year. Dieting can also make it harder to lose weight in the future. Rather than setting a New Year’s resolution to lose weight by using restrictive measures such as a fad diet, try a healthier, more sustainable method of weight loss by focusing on increasing physical activity and eating healthier foods.

2: Add more produce to your diet

Adding more cooked and raw vegetables and fruits to our diet can go a long way towards improving our health in the New Year.

Numerous studies have shown that eating a diet rich in produce helps protect against various illnesses, such as diabetes, heart diseases, certain cancers, and obesity, as well as overall mortality.

3: Cut back on alcohol

Though alcohol can certainly fit into a healthy diet, imbibing too often can negatively affect our health.

What’s more, drinking alcohol frequently may keep persons from reaching their health and wellness goals.

8: Visit your doctor

Set a reasonable goal to limit drinking to weekend nights only, or set a drink limit for the week.

4: Be more present

Research shows that being more present may improve life’s satisfaction by decreasing negative thoughts, which may thereby improve psychological health. Making a New Year’s resolution to be more mindful and present may help to make us feel more contented in our everyday lives. Spending less time on the phone, stopping to notice the environment, and listening intently to others are simple ways to be more present.

5: Take a vacation

Taking a vacation — even a short one — may have significant and immediate positive effects on stress levels, and may en-

hance well-being.

In the New Year, make a resolution to take a vacation with friends or family members, or on your own. Whether travelling to an area of consideration for some time, or simply planning a staycation at home, taking some time for rest and relaxation is important for health.

6: Try a new hobby

It’s common for adults to let once-loved hobbies fall by the wayside as they get older, due to busy schedules or lack of motivation.

However, research shows that partaking in a hobby that is loved can help persons to live longer, healthier lives.

7: Stop negative body talk

Talking negatively about one’s body can lead to feelings of body shame. In fact, research shows that engag-

Getting examined regularly by a healthcare practitioner is important for many reasons. Having regular blood work and necessary screenings can help spot potential problems before they turn into more serious ones. Though the pace of doctor’s visits depends on many things, including the type of medical care, age, and medical history, most experts recommend seeing a primary care physician at least once a year for a checkup.

9: Take care of your teeth

Maintaining one’s oral health is a New Year’s resolution idea that can and should be sustained for life.

Brushing and flossing our teeth regularly can help prevent oral conditions like gum disease and bad breath.

What’s more, some research suggests that gum disease may be associated with serious health condi-

tions, such as Alzheimer’s and heart disease, making oral care all the more important.

In addition to regular brushing and flossing, most dentists recommend a checkup and cleaning at least once a year.

10: Create a sustainable, nourishing diet

Instead of making a plan to follow yet another restrictive fad diet, this New Year, make a resolution to break the dieting cycle and create a sustainable, nourishing eating pattern that works.

The healthiest diet is one that’s rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods and low in heavily processed, sugary products. A healthy, longterm diet should not only be nutritious, but adaptable, meaning you can follow it for life, no matter the circumstances.

A sustainable eating pattern can be maintained on vacation, during holidays, and at parties, because it’s unrestrictive and suited to your lifestyle.

Though most New Year’s resolutions are only kept for a short period, the healthy resolutions listed above are sustainable ways to improve our physical and emotional health, and can be followed for life.

This New Year, try out a few of the resolutions in this article to help make this year — and the years that follow — the healthiest and happiest possible.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 2022

Regional

Two people drowned by Hundreds of US-bound migrants in abnormally high waves in caravan stuck at Guatemala border Peru after Tonga volcano H

T

wo people drowned off a beach in northern Peru, the local civil defence authority reported on Sunday, after unusually high waves were recorded in several coastal areas following Saturday’s eruption of an underwater volcano in Tonga in the Pacific Ocean.

The death of two people by drowning occurred on Saturday on a beach located in the Lambayeque region, Peru’s National Institute of Civil Defence (Indeci) said in a statement.

The underwater volcano off Tonga erupted on Saturday, prompting tsunami warnings and evacuation

orders in Japan and causing huge waves on several South Pacific islands, where images on social media show waves crashing against homes on the shores.

More than 20 Peruvian ports were temporarily closed as a precautionary measure amid warnings that the volcano was causing abnormally high waves, Indeci said.

The Peruvian Police said on Twitter that the two victims were found dead by officers from a Naylamp Beach Police Station. The tweet said “the waves were abnormal” in the area and that it had been declared unsuit-

able for bathers.

TV images showed several homes and businesses flooded by seawater in coastal areas in northern and central Peru.

The Peruvian Navy had reported that a tsunami alert was ruled out for the Pacific Coast country.

In Japan, hundreds of thousands of people were advised to evacuate on Sunday as waves of more than a meter hit coastal areas, public broadcaster NHK reported.

The footage on social media showed large waves crashing into coastal homes in several South Pacific islands. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Zealand and Switzerland ranked top globally, while economic giants like France (76.5), the US (64.4) and the UAE (65.9) “trailed much further behind Dominica.”

According to CS Global Partners, the report acknowledges recent weather storms in the Caribbean “but gave Dominica a high standing due to authorities prioritising the rapidly developing climate-resilient infrastructure on the island.”

“The region has also placed emphasis on physical safety, rule of law, and political stability,” the report says. “Most importantly, Dominica ranks high in categories like voice and accountability, where citizens feel empowered to hold leaders accountable to

their demands and needs.”

CS Global Partners said the WCR also offers “well-rounded insight into the minds of global citizens and investors worldwide through over 500 interviews by factoring in their top five priorities: Safety and Security, Quality of Life, Economic Opportunity, Global Mobility and Financial Freedom.”

Overall, thanks to lucrative opportunities that appeal to business people and families through Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme, the WCR placed Dominica in the top 30 per cent of 188 of the world’s jurisdictions, CS Global Partners said.

(Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

undreds of Hondurans and Nicaraguans on Saturday reached the Guatemalan border but were prevented from crossing by Guatemalan security forces, the first such US-bound migrant caravan to be formed this year in Central America.

Some migrants at the Izabel border crossing in Guatemala threw objects at Guatemalan security forces, who pushed them back with riot shields, according to a video shared

by Guatemalan authorities.

The caravan set off days before leftist Presidentelect Xiomara Castro takes office in Honduras on Jan

27. She has vowed to revive the economy and combat corruption that stokes waves of mass migration to the United States.

Earlier in the day, the migrants, mostly young people carrying backpacks on their shoulders and women with children, left a bus terminal in the northern city of San Pedro Sula for the Honduran border post of Corinto, across from Izabel. Some were pushing children in baby carriages.

“There is no work,” said Pablo Mendez, a Honduran carrying his 2-year-old daughter in his arms.

“That is why people are leaving in this caravan.”

Reuters video footage showed large groups of

hundreds of people walking across San Pedro Sula, with many crossing busy highways on foot. Another group had set off in the dark early in the morning.

Guatemalan authorities said about 100 people crossed into Guatemala at unauthorised border crossings, and later added that some 36 people have been returned to Honduras.

Previously, Honduran Police have formed roadblocks to prevent many such caravans from reaching the border crossing.

Guatemalan security forces have also clashed with migrant groups when they tried to force their way across without documents.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Argentina inflation spikes to Dominica ranks as one of the safest countries 3.8% on festive spending splurge in the Caribbean – CS Global Partners

C

S Global Partners, a London-based Government advisory and marketing firm, has ranked the island of Dominica as one of the safest places in the Caribbean and Latin America.

Taking into account data from the Global Peace Index (GPI) 2021 and World Governance Indicators (WGI), CS Global Partners said its World Citizenship Report (WCR) ranks the “Nature Isle” third in the region with a score of 77.3, “bringing it to the 33rd safest place in the international arena.”

In the Caribbean, Dominica followed Uruguay’s safety and security score of 82 and Costa Rica’s 79, CS Global Partners said.

It said Iceland, New

T&T PM extends vaccine deadline for public servants

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ublic servants have been given another month to abide by the Government’s vaccination policy.

The Government had initially set a deadline of January 17 to make all public offices into safe spaces that allowed only vaccinated people to work, but on Saturday Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley announced the one-month reprieve.

“I have asked the Attorney General to take a little more time and of course, it cannot be forever, so today I am announcing that what we had intended that might have been done on January 17, will now be done somewhere around February 17,” he said.

Rowley was speaking at the time at the Government’s COVID-19 update at the

Diplomatic Centre, St Ann’s.

The Prime Minister last addressed the matter back in December and said that the mid-January deadline was given then because of the low vaccination figures and the high hospitalisation rate. The vaccination rate has since improved, which gave the State some wiggle room to extend the implementation of the vaccine policy by one month.

Rowley said that there were still some people who were “digging their heels in” and others were being encouraged to not cooperate.

The Government would legislate and be in the same position as the private sector to determine which areas of Governmental operations could operate under legislation as safe zones are being attacked too, he said.

A

rgentina inflation rose back up to 3.8 per cent in December, the Government said on Thursday, above forecasts and to its highest level since last April, driven by consumers splurging on festive feasts and holidays in the last month of the year.

The result, higher than the median forecast from analysts polled by Reuters of 3.6 per cent, also saw running 12-month inflation clocked at 50.9 per cent in the month. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) had risen 2.5 per cent in November.

“The acceleration of inflation versus November is explained by the collection of bonuses and vacations, people spending pesos faster to buy items for parties and holidays,” said Natalia Motyl, economist at the Fundacion Libertad y Progreso.

Argentina’s Government has been battling to tamp down rampant inflation, which is running at an annual rate of over 50 per cent, with caps on exports of some meat cuts and grains as well

A costumer buying candies at a shop during a blackout amid a heat wave in Buenos Aires, Argentina January 11, 2022

as price freezes on many consumer goods.

The country’s central bank recently hiked the benchmark interest rate to 40 per cent, its first raise in over a year.

“Despite the freezes of some 1400 products, the initial impact that was seen in November was offset by price increases outside the agreement,” said Isaias

Marini, economist at consultancy Econviews, adding meat prices had made a big impact.

“It’s now a challenging start for 2022 in terms of prices, with inflation in 2021 appearing to set a floor for things. With tariffs and exchange rate adjustments, we project that inflation in 2022 will end at 58 per cent.”

(Excerpt from Reuters)

St Lucia signs onto United Nations Framework

S Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley addresses members of the media during the Prime Minister’s press conference at the Diplomatic Centre, St Ann’s on Friday

He said that the citizens are better off if all are masked, sanitised and socially distanced even in safe zones. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

t Lucia’s Prime Minister Philip J Pierre and United Nations Resident Coordinator, Didier Trebucq have signed a five-year United Nations Multi-Country Sustainable Development Framework (MSDCF).

During the signing on Friday, Pierre highlighted the need to address the complexities of the country’s socio-economic dynamics with an approach to development that involves effective coordi-

nation and integration of the Government’s efforts to optimise benefits to Sr Lucians.

The Prime Minister explained that the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the support of the MSDCF will allow St Lucia, as a developing nation, to find innovative strategies to end poverty, address inequalities, and address the pressing issue of climate change.

Trebucq affirmed that the new partnership would

provide opportunities for the recovery of economies from the socio-economic impact of COVID-19 and provide a people-centric approach to development over the next five years.

The MSDCF is aligned with the St Lucian Government’s strategic position to address the vulnerabilities in society and will seek to promote the principles of inclusiveness, equity, good governance, and economic and Climate resilience. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

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MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 2022

19

Around the World

under weather alert as major OILNEWS OIL NEWS Millions winter storm hits US and Canada Physical crude oil market steams ahead after Omicron blip

F

rantic oil buying driven by supply outages and signs the Omicron variant won't be as disruptive as feared has pushed some crude grades to multi-year highs, suggesting the rally in Brent futures could be sustained a while longer, traders said.

Prices for physical cargoes do not always trade in tandem with oil futures and when differentials widen rapidly and considerably, they can indicate speculators have oversold or overbought futures versus fundamentals.

Brent oil futures have jumped 10 per cent since the start of the year but the physical market is still racing ahead, with differentials for some grades hitting multi-year highs, suggesting a tight market will push the futures rally on.

"These are crazy numbers. There clearly is physical tightness," a North Sea oil trader said.

Key benchmark grade Forties traded at a fresh two-year high on Thursday at Dated Brent plus US$1.80 a barrel.

Other North Sea grades have also hit one or two year highs. Prices for key west African grades like Nigeria's Bonny Light have jumped too since the start of the year.

The tightness began in the Atlantic Basin and spread as Asian buyers were forced to look for cheaper cargoes elsewhere. Differentials for crude from Oman, the UAE and Russia's Far East have jumped as Brent crude's premium to Dubai swaps is at its widest in two months.

Several factors have fuelled prices. After the wildfire spread of Omicron in the fourth quarter, oil demand has not been badly hit in a surprise to refiners that had reduced purchases. Now, they suddenly have to make up for the gap.

Violent protests in Kazakhstan at the start of the year prompted fears of a prolonged oil outage, which did not materialise, that would have compounded outages elsewhere such as in Libya, Canada and Ecuador.

The Libyan and Ecuadorian outages were largely resolved in the past week after taking out close to 1 million barrels per day.

At the same time, OPEC and its allies have stuck by their timeline to slowly increase output, despite repeated calls by the United States and elsewhere to go faster. Meanwhile, nuclear talks with Iran, that could also boost supply, appear stalled.

"Turns out Omicron wasn’t so bad and supply issues were worse than anticipated," a US crude trader said. "(Buyers) are snapping up everything no matter what grade."

Inventories have also shrunk in the United States and Canada. The US Energy Information Administration said on Wednesday crude oil stockpiles fell more than expected to their lowest since October 2018.

"With spring and summer on the horizon ... people are getting prepared to enjoy a strong market," a US trader said.

Some traders still believe the market could run out of steam due to new COVID variants, seasonal refinery maintenance in the second quarter, and a potential slowdown in China.

"I think it's more trying to get ahead of tightness they think is coming ... back to a 'herd of lemmings' market dynamic," another market player said of the recent rally. (Excerpt from Reuters)

UK national identified as Texas synagogue hostage-taker

U

nited States authorities have identified a 44-year-old British national as the man who took four people hostage at a Texas synagogue for 10 hours before an FBI SWAT team stormed the building, ending a tense standoff that President Joe Biden called “an act of terror”.

The FBI identified the man as Malik Faisal Akram, 44, who was killed after the safe release of his four hostages on Saturday night.

In a statement, the FBI said there was no indication that anyone else was involved. It did not provide a possible motive for the attack.

Akram could be heard ranting on a Facebook livestream of the services and demanding the release of a Pakistani neuroscientist who was convicted of trying to kill US Army officers in Afghanistan.

The incident in Colleyville, Texas, “was an act of terror”, said Biden, who was in

Philadelphia with First Lady Jill Biden to honour the legacy of slain civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. “Allegedly – I don’t have all the facts, nor does the attorney general – but allegedly the assertion was he got the weapons on the street,” Biden said.

“He purchased them when he landed and it turns out there apparently were no bombs that we know of …

Apparently he spent the first night in a homeless shelter. I don’t have all the details yet so I’m reluctant to go into much more detail,” the President said.

FBI Special Agent in Charge Matt DeSarno said the hostage-taker was specifically focused on an issue not directly connected to the Jewish community, and there was no immediate indication that the man was part of any broader plan. But DeSarno said the agency’s investigation “will have global reach”.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

A

winter storm is bringing heavy snow and ice to parts of the US and Canada, with millions under weather warnings.

Thousands of flights have been cancelled, and power cuts have been reported in some south-eastern states.

Virginia, Georgia, and North and South Carolina declared states of emergency.

The US National Weather Service (NWS) said the storm would hit much of the eastern third of the country over the next two days, with more than 1ft (30cm) of snow expected in some areas.

The huge storm system is approaching the eastern US from the Midwest.

Snow and ice could result

A snow plough at work in Greenville, South Carolina

in "dangerous travel, power outages, and tree damage", the NWS warned.

There were also forecasts of possible coastal flooding in some areas, including New York city and parts of Connecticut, with warnings that roads and infrastructure could be affected.

In Canada's Ontario province, which shares a border with New York state, Environment Canada issued storm warnings on Sunday morning for much of the south, where the snow is expected to start late on Sunday local time. Toronto, the capital of the province

and Canada's largest city, is forecast to get seven inches (20cm) of snow.

US airlines had cancelled at least 2400 flights

by Sunday morning as a result of the extreme weather, according to flight tracking data.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport in North Carolina was among the worst hit, with almost 90 per cent of flights scrapped, and a message on its website urged passengers to check with their airlines before travelling to the airport.

At a news conference in the neighbouring state on Saturday, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster called on residents to stay off the roads. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Former Mali President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita dies aged 76

M

ali’s former President Ibrahim B o u b a c a r Keita has died at the age of 76, his family said.

“President IBK died this morning at 09:00 GMT in his home” in the capital, Bamako, a family member told the AFP news agency, using the former leader’s initials, with several other family members confirming his passing.

The cause of death has not been specified.

Keita led the West

African country from 2013 until he was removed in a coup in 2020.

He had promised to restore Mali’s honour as a model for democracy in West Africa as he campaigned as a unifying figure in his fractured country, pledging “zero tolerance” for corruption.

He won the election in a landslide in 2013 and was re-elected five years later.

But slow reforms, a crumbling economy and decrepit public services and schools,

along with a widely shared perception of Government corruption, fed anti-Keita sentiment, sparking large protests in Bamako.

Military officers who overthrew Keita have drawn international condemnation for backpedalling on a pledge to hold democratic elections in February and extending the transition period to civil rule by five years.

In response, West Africa’s main regional bloc, ECOWAS, said it will close borders with Mali and impose sweeping economic

sanctions.

Mali has struggled to regain stability since 2012, when ethnic Tuareg rebels and loosely aligned armed groups seized the northern two-thirds of the country, leading former colonial power France to intervene to temporarily beat them back.

Ethnic killings and armed forces’ abuses had become a defining feature of Keita’s presidency, despite thousands of French and international troops deployed to contain the armed groups.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

China's Xi calls for measures against 'unhealthy' Pacific volcano: Ashdevelopment of digital economy covered Tonga is like a moonscape, say residents

P

resident Xi Jinping has called for improved regulation and governance of China's digital economy to guard against its "unhealthy" development as Beijing aims to boost the sector's contribution to the country's growth.

In an essay in the ruling Communist Party's publication Qiushi on Saturday, Xi called for focusing on key areas including integrated circuits, displays, communications equipment and intelligent hardware.

China should "cultivate a number of enterprises with international competitiveness, and leading ecological firms with control over industrial chains, to create world-class digital industry clusters," he said.

"We must see that compared with large and powerful countries in the global digital economy, China's digital economy is big but not strong, and fast but not superior."

Xi also called for regulation and standardisation to plug regulatory loopholes and prevent "monopolies

and disorderly expansion of capital" in the world's second largest economy.

"In the course of rapid development, China's digital economy has also displayed some unhealthy and irregular seeds and trends that not only affect the healthy development of the digital economy, but violate laws and regulations and pose a threat to national economic and financial security," he said.

China should also improve its national security system, with a focus on strengthening digital economy early warning, prevention and control systems to ensure the security of key technologies, important industries and facilities, strategic resources, and leading enterprises.

Xi's essay follows a plan issued by China's cabinet on Wednesday for the development of the digital economy, which aims to increase the sector's share of national GDP by pushing technologies like 6G and big data centres. (Excerpt from Reuters)

A

massive volcanic eruption in Tonga that triggered tsunami waves has smothered the Pacific islands in ash, cut power and severed communications.

Up to 80,000 people there could be affected, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) told the BBC. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the tsunami had wreaked "significant damage", washing boats ashore and battering beachside shops.

No deaths have been reported so far.

Information remains scarce, however, and New Zealand and Australia are sending surveillance flights to assess the extent of the damage.

Katie Greenwood of the IFRC in Fiji said that help was urgently needed.

"We suspect there could be up to 80,000 people throughout Tonga affected

by either the eruption itself or from the tsunami wave and inundation as a result of the eruption," she said.

"That was a shock to people, so we do hold some concern for those outer islands and we're very keen to hear from people."

The underwater volcano erupted on Saturday, sending a plume of ash into the sky and triggering warnings of 1.2m (4ft) waves reaching Tonga. The eruption was so loud it could be heard in New Zealand, some 2383km (1,481 miles) from Tonga.

Locals say Tonga looks "like a moonscape" after being coated in a layer of volcanic ash.

The dust was reportedly contaminating water supplies and making fresh water a vital need, Ardern said on Sunday.

Aid charities said the ash had prompted authorities to tell people to drink bottled water and wear face masks to protect their lungs.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

20

MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 2022

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DAILY HOROSCOPES

ARCHIE

Don't make a fuss. Tend to business.

Take an intellectual approach to your goal and consider how to go about living up to your expectations. An energetic approach will help.

(March 21-April 19) Make changes that encourage you to spend more time with loved ones. Be sensitive toward others' needs. If you share your intentions, you'll receive the help you need.

DILBERT (April 20-May 20)

Learn as you go. Hone your skills and share your plans once you are happy with them. Refuse to let someone interfere with your ability to forge ahead.

Don't hesitate to proceed alone.

(May 21-June 20) Your imagination and attention to detail will raise interest. You will prosper if you take a unique approach to your work and incorporate something trendy into your presentation.

PEANUTS (June 21-July 22)

Having a strategy and knowing what you want will help you avoid mistakes and bypass people who can disrupt your plans. Put your energy where it counts, and you will get things done.

(July 23-Aug. 22) Mix business with pleasure, and you will excel. Share your point of view and listen to others' responses. Don't leave anything to chance if you want to get things done calmly and correctly.

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

Keep an open mind, but don’t spend money on things you don’t need.

Channel your energy into something meaningful. Be mindful of others. Take a day trip or research something that interests you.

Be receptive to suggestions and ideas. The information someone passes along will encourage you to diversify and create something unique. Working with a like-minded partner will pay off.

SUDOKU (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Consider how you earn your living and what's required to improve your financial future. A disciplined attitude regarding your budget will be needed.

Don't let anyone take advantage of you.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21) Take a unique approach to life, love and happiness. A positive attitude will encourage others to listen to what you say and support what you want to pursue. Share your feelings and intentions.

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Take care of unfinished business.

Don't ignore what others are doing or saying. The information you receive will encourage you to rethink your strategy.

Protect your reputation, assets and possessions.

You'll instinctively know what's doable. Dig in and put a plan together that will attract individuals who can contribute to your success. Mix business with pleasure. Romance is favored.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 2022

21

Australia crush England in final Ashes Test

E

ngland's miserable Ashes tour ended with one last calamitous batting failure as Australia surged to a 146-run victory in the final Test to claim a 4-0 series win.

Set 271 to win in Hobart, England reached 68-0, but then lost all 10 wickets for the addition of another 56 runs. Nine wickets fell in the final session of the third day, as England collapsed with breathtaking speed and ineptitude, even by their recent standards, as they were bowled out for 124.

Pat Cummins, who lifted the Urn in his first series as captain, took three wickets, while Scott Boland and Cameron Green each picked up three wickets. Mark Wood's superb 6-37 had earlier helped dismiss Australia for 155 in their second innings, to give England an outside chance of a remarkable win.

Instead, Australia repeated their margin of victory from four years ago, and extended England's winless run Down Under to 15 Tests.

Overall, Joe Root's side have won only one of their past 14 Tests since February of last year. By the time they return to Australia in 2025, it will be 14 years since their last

they travel in 2023.

One last collapse To ask this England team to complete their highest chase in Australia for 60 years, and largest in all of the day-night Tests they have played, on a pitch offering so much for the seam bowlers, seemed fanciful. Yet, Rory Burns - with his long hair untied, perhaps feeling like a man with nothing to lose - and Zak Crawley rattled along at more than four an over to put Australia under genuine pressure.

However, England’s batting failures are so regular that a clatter of wickets was inevitable. Sure enough, when Burns inadvertently deflected

The Aussies celebrating The Ashes victory

success in an away Ashes Test.

Another inevitable defeat There were times on another freewheeling day of an entertaining Test that England might have had hope of salvaging a consolation win from their demoralising tour.

A vital decision went against them when Chris Woakes was judged to have marginally overstepped when he bowled Alex Carey for 19. Had Carey been dismissed then, it would have left Australia at 91-7, but

the wicketkeeper went on to make a crucial 49.

However, that moment was rendered irrelevant by the way England spinelessly capitulated, ending the series with another batting collapse that has become a characteristic of their Test cricket. This tour may well be remembered for the time in which it was played, with the COVID pandemic casting doubt firstly on whether England would take part, and then played a role in their

disrupted preparation.

Still, that should not be an excuse for their substandard performance, and all aspects of English cricket would come under review in the aftermath of yet another drubbing Down Under. Australia, a team which had played only four Tests in the previous 18 months and had to replace captain Tim Paine with Cummins on the eve of the series, were vastly superior, and will be favourites to end a 22-year wait for a series victory in the UK when

Dr Puran Singh and Brian Ramphal pump $850,000 into 2022 BCB programmes

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he Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) under the leadership of Hilbert Foster continues to attract sponsorship as it works assiduously to develop the game in the Ancient County.

In 2018, the current leadership had inherited a meagre fortythree thousand dollars when it took office, but has since raisedin excess of $60M in cash and kind for the unmatched development of Berbice cricket.

Last Monday, two of the BCB’s most faithful sponsors - Dr Puran Singh and Brian Ramphal - both informed that they would be renewing their annual sponsorship for 2022. Dr Singh is the younger brother of Dr Tulsi Dyal Singh, one of the major sponsors of Berbice cricket, and he is based in his adopted home of Barbados. He first came on board as a BCB sponsor in 2019, and has invested close to one million dollars of his personal funds into the county’s cricket.

In 2022, he would be sponsoring the BCB National Players Scheme at a cost of $350 thousand dollars. Under the Scheme, the BCB would provide a stipend of ten thousand dollars to every Berbician who makes the national team at the under-15, -17, -19 and female levels.

Brian Ramphal

Dr Puran Singh

Foster has expressed gratitude to Dr Singh for his continued support, and has reassured him that the funds would be used for the intended purpose. The stipend, he stated, would serve as a motivation to the players. Cricket West Indies, he said, is planning to resume cricket at the junior level, and the BCB is confident that its players would comprise the majority of the different teams, due to the massive investment in their development.

Dr Singh has said he is very impressed with the work of the board and its visionary leadership.

He noted that he is very pleased to be a part of the team that has done so much, and pledged to continue his support in the future.

Brian Ramphal is a very

successful overseas-based entrepreneur who invests in the tech industry. He came on board as a BCB sponsor in 2018, after being introduced to Foster by former BCB Secretary Oscar Ramjeet. The USA-based Ramphal has, to date, donated close to Gy$3M to this vibrant cricket board, and would be investing $500 thousand dollars in 2022.

This sponsorship would cover the cost of an under-19 tournament in West Berbice, along with educational grants to players in the same area; the hosting of the 2022 BCB Mother and Father of the Year Awards, along with the overall BCB Awards Ceremony, which is expected to be held in late April.

A very prominent Caribbean

sports leader has already agreed to be the main speaker at the Brian Ramphal 2022 BCB Awards Ceremony, which would be held at the St Francis Community Centre in Port Mourant. Foster has hailed Ramphal as one of the main reasons why his presidency has been so successful, and has expressed gratitude to him for his support over the years.

Ramphal has said he is delighted to be associated with the BCB, as it is making a positive difference in the lives of youths.

Meanwhile, West Indies player Shimron Hetmyer and his wife Nirvanie have on Friday reassured the BCB that they would be renewing their sponsorship of the Hetmyers Trust Fund. Last year, the couple sponsored the first edition of the fund at a cost of one million dollars. Over eighty clubs received cricket balls, while ten youths also received educational grants.

The BCB would be providing cricket balls to all the clubs in the county with funds donated by the Hetmyers in 2022.

Green on to his stumps for 26, the rest followed in quick time.

Dawid Malan, batting after his daughter was born six weeks early in Harrogate, played on off the same bowler, while Crawley walked into an edge off Green for 36.

Ben Stokes needlessly pulled Mitchell Starc to deep square leg, Root was undone by a scuttler from Boland, while Sam Billings also looked accusingly at the pitch when he chipped the same bowler to mid-on.

The tail competed to find the worst way to get out, each stroke more ridiculous than the last, to hasten the beginning of Australia's celebrations. (BBC Sport)

SCOREBOARD

ENGLAND 2ND INNINGS (TARGET: 271 RUNS) Rory Burns b Green Zak Crawley c †Carey b Green Dawid Malan b Green Joe Root (c) b Boland Ben Stokes c Lyon b Starc Ollie Pope b Cummins Sam Billings †c Cummins b Boland Chris Woakes c †Carey b Boland Mark Wood b Cummins Ollie Robinson b Cummins Stuart Broad not out Extras (lb 13)

26 36 10 11 5 5 1 5 11 0 1 13

TOTAL (38.5 Ov, RR: 3.19) 124 Fall of wickets: 1-68 (Rory Burns, 16.1 ov), 2-82 (Dawid Malan, 20.5 ov), 3-83 (Zak Crawley, 22.2 ov), 4-92 (Ben Stokes, 27.5 ov), 5-101 (Joe Root, 31.4 ov), 6-107 (Sam Billings, 35.1 ov), 7-107 (Ollie Pope, 36.2 ov), 8-115 (Chris Woakes, 37.6 ov), 9-123 (Mark Wood, 38.3 ov), 10124 (Ollie Robinson, 38.5 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Mitchell Starc 8-0-30-1 Pat Cummins 12.5-3-42-3 Scott Boland 12-5-18-3 Cameron Green 6-1-21-3

Djokovic flies out of Australia after losing court appeal

T

ennis superstar Novak Djokovic flew out of Australia on Sunday after a court upheld the Government's decision to cancel his visa, capping days of drama over the country's COVID-19 entry rules and his unvaccinated status.

The unanimous ruling by a three-judge Federal Court bench dealt a final blow to Djokovic's hopes of chasing a record 21st Grand Slam win at the Australian Open that starts on Monday.

The Serbian player went to the airport in Melbourne just hours later. Federal agents escorted him and his team from the business lounge to the gate, where he boarded an Emirates’ flight bound for Dubai.

Djokovic said after the ruling that he was extremely disappointed, as it meant he could not take part in the tournament.

"I respect the Court’s ruling, and I will cooperate with the relevant authorities in relation to my departure from the country," he said in a statement, and wished the tournament well.

Chief Justice James Allsop said

the court ruling was based on the lawfulness and legality of the Minister's decision in the context of the three grounds of appeal Djokovic's legal team lodged.

"It is no part of the function of the court to decide upon the merits or wisdom of the decision," Allsop said, adding that the three judges were unanimous in their ruling. Full reasoning behind the ruling would be released in coming days, he said. (Reuters)

22

MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 2022

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Ireland clinch ODI series 2-1 against West Indies

I

reland secured a dramatic 2-1 victory in the One-Day series against West Indies as they held on for a two-wicket win after a late wobble at Sabina Park.

Andy McBrine's four wickets helped contain the hosts to 212 in 44.4 overs.

McBrine was then part of 72 and 79-run stands with Paul Stirling and Harry Tector, before being dismissed for 59.

Tector's 52 took Ireland to within 16 runs of victory, but four quick wickets fell before tailender Craig Young's boundary saw them win in 44.5 overs.

Ireland had seemed set for a comfortable victory as Tector, and Curtis Camper brought them to 190-4, but the duo's dismissals left the visitors on 197-6 and the conclusion to the contest proved excruciatingly nervy, as Gareth Delany's six and a four still left five short of victory after he departed.

George Dockrell was then dismissed without a further run being added, to leave the hosts needing two wickets for the most unlikely of comebacks, before Young opened the face of the bat to steer a winning boundary to third man.

Ireland’s hopes of qualifying for next year's World Cup were boosted by the se-

SCOREBOARD

Ireland clinched the series 2-1

Dubliner's growing reputation as he notched a seventh One-Day International half century in 10 games.

Paul Stirling, captaining the Irish because of the COVID-enforced absence of regular skipper Andrew Balbirnie, contributed 44 runs before being trapped

by Akeal Hosein as the visitors recovered well from the first-ball departure of veteran opener William Porterfield to look on course

saw off other opener Justin Greaves, before McBrine's opening three wickets saw West Indies plummet to 119-7.

Jason Holder helped steady the hosts' innings as they put on 63 for the eighth wicket, before the former skipper was crucial-

ly run-out for 44 by Delany.

McBrine then took his fourth wicket with a caught-and-bowled dismissal of Hosein, while Young wrapped up the West Indies innings by dismissing Alzarri Joseph after a final-wicket partnership of 20. (BBC Sport)

WEST INDIES INNINGS (50 OVERS MAXIMUM) Shai Hope †c Little b Young 53 Justin Greaves c Tector b Young 12 Nicholas Pooran lbw b McBrine 2 Shamarh Brooks lbw b McBrine 1 Roston Chase c Stirling b Campher 19 Kieron Pollard (c) c Porterfield b McBrine 3 Jason Holder run out (Delany/†Rock) 44 Romario Shepherd c Adair b Dockrell 13 Akeal Hosein c & b McBrine 23 Odean Smith not out 20 Alzarri Joseph c Stirling b Young 6 Extras (lb 7, nb 2, w 7) 16 TOTAL (44.4 Ov, RR: 4.74, 205 Mts) 212 Fall of wickets: 1-72 (Shai Hope, 10.6 ov), 2-76 (Justin Greaves, 12.4 ov), 3-76 (Nicholas Pooran, 13.2 ov), 4-85 (Shamarh Brooks, 15.1 ov), 5-99 (Kieron Pollard, 19.6 ov), 6-101 (Roston Chase, 22.4 ov), 7-119 (Romario Shepherd, 27.5 ov), 8-182 (Jason Holder, 40.4 ov), 9-192 (Akeal Hosein, 41.6 ov), 10212 (Alzarri Joseph, 44.4 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Josh Little 9-1-55-0 Mark Adair 7-1-38-0 Craig Young 7.4-0-43-3 Andy McBrine 10-2-28-4 Curtis Campher 4-0-14-1 George Dockrell 3-0-11-1 Paul Stirling 4-0-16-0

IRELAND INNINGS (TARGET: 213 RUNS FROM 50 OVERS) William Porterfield c Hosein b Joseph 0 Paul Stirling (c)lbw b Hosein 44 Andy McBrine c † Hope b Smith 59 Harry Tector lbw b Chase 52 Neil Rock †c Holder b Chase 2 Curtis Campher b Chase 11 George Dockrell c Holder b Hosein

7 Gareth Delany c Brooks b Hosein

10 Mark Adair not out 1 Craig Young not out 5 Extras (lb 1, w 22) 23 TOTAL(44.5 Ov, RR: 4.77, 214 Mts) 214/8 Did not bat: Josh Little Fall of wickets: 1-0 (William Porterfield, 0.1 ov), 2-73 (Paul Stirling, 12.6 ov), 3-152 (Andy McBrine, 30.5 ov), 4-168 (Neil Rock, 35.3 ov), 5-190 (Curtis Campher, 39.2 ov), 6-197 (Harry Tector, 41.2 ov), 7-208 (Gareth Delany, 42.4 ov), 8-208 (George Dockrell, 42.6 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Alzarri Joseph 10-1-35-1 Romario Shepherd 6.5-0-28-0 Odean Smith 3-0-23-1 Akeal Hosein 10-0-59-3 Jason Holder 2-0-16-0 Kieron Pollard 3-0-8-0 Roston Chase 10-0-44-3

Chattergoon, Gordon and Nandu renew sponsorship of BCB grassroots tournaments

T

Harry Tector scored a half-century

ries victory, as the games were part of the World Super League competition which counts towards automatic qualification for the tournament in India.

Harry Tector again impressed in Ireland's middle order, as the visitors clinched victory in the series. Tector's innings further enhanced the

for a dominant win before their nervy conclusion.

The Irish bowling effort was impressive as West Indies collapsed from 72-0 after 10.5 overs to 119-7 after 27.5 overs. Young made the crucial breakthrough by dismissing Shai Hope, who had contributed 53 of the hosts' first-wicket partnership. Seamer Young then

hree former national players from the Ancient County of Berbice are the latest sponsors to come on board with the Berbice Cricket Baord as support continues to pour in for that vibrant organisation.

The Board has already attracted millions of dollars for its 2022 list of activities as numerous sponsors either renew their sponsorship or come on board for the first time.

The three former national players last year came on board to sponsor grassroots tournaments as the BCB sought to bring the game to a new generation of cricket fans. Former West Indies Under-19 player Hemnarine Chattergoon, who also played at the First- class level for Canada, has renewed his sponsorship for a four-team tournament in his native village of Fyrish.

The teams to play in that tournament would be Fyrish, Kilcoy, Courtland and Sand Reef, and the tournament would be played under the name Dianand and Shamshadbhagam Chattergoon Grassroots tournament, in memory of Chattergoon’s late parents.

The former West Indies junior player also informed Foster that Mrs Chattergoon would sponsor a four-team tournament at the Kendall Union Ground in memory of her late mother Lila Ramkissoon, who hailed from No 19 Village, East Coast Berbice. The teams to participate in that tournament would

Hemnarine Chattergoon, Jeremy Gordon and Arjune Nandu

be Kendall Union CC, Kendall Union All Stars, Canje Titans and No 1 Village CC. Chattergoon has said he is very impressed with the leadership of the current BCB executive, and would continue to support the board as long as the current team is in place.

Arjune Nandu, a former national player who played four First-class matches for Guyana from 1988 to 1992, is sponsoring the Lillian Nandu Cup at the Port Mourant ground. The four teams participating would be the home team, University of Guyana Elite, Rose Hall Tigers and Tain/Clifton.

Naidu would be sponsoring the tournament in memory of his late Grandmother, Lillian Nandu.

Former national senior fast bowler Jeremey Gordon,

a product of the Tucber Park Cricket Club, has agreed to sponsor the second edition of the grassroots tournament which bears his name.

The tournament is scheduled for the Edinburgh Cricket Ground, and would be played between Edinburgh, East Bank Blazers, Tucber Park and Guymine.

Gordon has indicated his willingness to be a long-term sponsor, and has said he is pleased to be associated with the development of the game in his home county. The 34-yearold Gordon played five One Day International matches for Canada, in which he took six wickets at an average of 31.83.

Foster, who has recently been re-elected for his third successive two-year term, has said the BCB would be organising at least 10 grassroots

tournaments in 2022, and he is very pleased that former players are giving back to the game which made them household names.

The objectives of the tournaments are to allow clubs of less standing the opportunity to win a BCB tournament, to promote the game in villages across the county, and to identify new talent for the future.

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.

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23

Guyana Harpy Eagles trials…

Junior Sinclair's spectacular 11-wicket match haul highlights second trials

By Brandon Corlette at Albion

A

brilliant Junior Sinclair stole the show in the second Guyana Harpy Eagles Four-day trial match at Albion. He claimed figures of 11-59 in 36 overs to lead Keemo Paul's XI to an eightwicket win on day three.

Resuming the third day on 116-7 after 45 overs, Leon Johnson's XI posted 163 all out in 71.4 overs. That left Paul's XI a total of 67 runs to chase, a feat they accomplished in 12.2 overs, ending on 71-2.

The third day began with

Glasgow struck an unbeaten 28

promising knock.

The rain intervened at

144-8, Leon Swamy, who had a pair in this match, was cleaned all ends up by the impressive Junior Sinclair at 146-9.

Karim, who made a duck in the first innings, redeemed himself and played along nicely. Despite the constant change of weather, his solidity remained unchanged.

Karim, who plays locally for Blairmont, was dropped on 33

by Nealand Codugan, who had five dropped catches in this trial match. Karim was joined

by Chaitram Balgobin, and the duo stuck around, adding 19 runs for the final wicket.

Balgobin struck a sweet six off Richie Looknauth, but the off-spinner removed him for 13. That left Karim stranded on a top-score of 36 from 144 balls, which included three fours, in 144 minutes.

Junior Sinclair ended with 6-41 in 25 brilliant overs, inclusive of 13 maidens. He had 5-18 in 11 overs in the first innings, and ended the match with career-best 1159 in 36 overs. The consistent Anthony Adams had 2-41 in 18 overs, while Looknauth had 1-15 in 8.4 overs and Qumar Torrington had 1-15 in six overs.

Javed Karim was rock solid in his unbeaten innings

his breezy innings of 30 from 19 balls, which included five fours, came to an end when he was caught at mid-on.

Tevin Imlach (08*) and the aggressive Seon Glasgow took the game home, with Glasgow slamming Kevin Sinclair for a six, ending the match in 12.2 overs. Glasgow, a strong man who plays for Blairmont, ended unbeaten on 28 from 18 balls, which were decorated with two thumping fours and one six.

The likes of Shimron Hetmyer, Keemo Paul, Veerasammy Permaul and Vishaul Singh, among others, did not play for various reasons. Some of the young players looked promising, but most looked unprepared to play among senior national players. The final trials before the Regional 4-Day tournament bowls off next month is set for January 20-23 at a venue to be announced.

SCOREBOARD From wicketkeeper-batsman to off-spinner: Junior Sinclair ended with 11 wickets in the match (Brandon Corlette photos)

Sharaz Ramcharran and Javed Karim at the crease. Despite being dropped early in the morning, Ramcharran was the first man dismissed for 23 from 42 balls. He struck three fours, but a sharp return catch to Junior Sinclair ended his

10:20h and at 11:00h, which forced an early lunch. But play resumed, compliments of a significant change of weather and the hard-working groundsmen, led by Roger McDonald.

After the 41-run eighthwicket partnership ended at

Trevon Griffth played some top shots in his breezy innings

Watkins, Harry and Bulkan dominate Crown Mining Golf Championships

In response, openers Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Trevon Griffith added 22 runs off 4.5 overs. Kevin Sinclair removed Chanderpaul for eight, shattering his stumps.

During Kevin's reaction to the loss of his wicket, he gave Chanderpaul an unnecessary send-off. The pugnacious Griffith continued to hit Nial Smith to the boundary, but

Johnson's XI (2nd Innings) Chandrapaul Hemraj b Junior Sinclair 25 Kevlon Anderson lbw b Anthony Adams 22 Sachin Singhlbw b Qumar Torrington 4 Leon Johnson* b Junior Sinclair 5 Kemol Savory+ lbw b Junior Sinclair 1 Javed Karimnot out 36 Ronaldo Ali Mohammed c Seon Glasgow b Junior Sinclair 4 Kevin Sinclairc and b Anthony Adams 25/13 Sharaz Ramcharran c and bJunior Sinclair 23 Leon Swamy b Junior Sinclair 0/4 Chaitram Balgobinlbw b Richie Looknauth 13 Total 163for10 Bowler O-M-R-W Keon Joseph 5.0-1-12-0

Clinton Pestano 5.0-1-20-0 Junior Sinclair 25.0-13-41-6 Qumar Torrington 6.0-2-15-1 Anthony Adams 18.0-7-41-2 Aaron Beharry 3.0-0-16-0 Richie Looknauth 8.4-3-15-1 Seon Glasgow 1.0-0-2-0 Kemo Paul's XI (2nd Innings) Tagenarine Chanderpaul b Kevin Sinclair 3 Trevon Griffithc Sharaz Ramcharranb Nial Smith 30 Tevin Imlach+ not out 8 Seon Glasgow not out 26 Extras (0b 4lb 0w 0nb 0pen) 4 Total 71for2 Bowler O-M-R-W Kevin Sinclair 6.2-2-28-1 Nial Smith 4.0-0-31-1 Ronsford Beaton 1.0-0-4-0 Leon Johnson 1.0-0-4-0

Permaul keen on extending dominance in upcoming Regional 4-Day

T

W

The winners’ row at the Crown Mining Golf Championships

he Crown Mining Golf Championship featuring its exclusive TOLSEN brand of heavy-duty construction equipment exceeded expectations. Golfers were in good form, and competition was intense among the 35 participants, but there were two clear front runners when the dust settled.

Englishman Tom Watkins separated himself from a strong field to cart off 4 trophies, including overall best gross 73.

David Harry was the overall net champion with an impressive round which included 5 birdies en route to a best net score of 67.

Overall winners were: Under-9 Handicap Flight: 1st: Tom Watkins, Gross 73 hc

4 net 69 2nd: Ravindra Harry, Gross 77 hc 8 net 69 10 to 18 HC flight: 1st: David Harry, Gross 79 hc 12 net 67 2nd: Paton George, Gross 84 hc 13 net 71 19 to 36 HC flight: 1st: Ronal Bulkan, Gross 90 hc 21 Net 69 2nd: Eureka Giddings, Gross 94 hc 24 Net 70 Tom Watkins carted off the longest drive trophy, while Kasim Khan took home the Nearest to the Flag prize.

At the trophy presentation ceremony, David Harry and Tom Watkins stood tall among the

impressive array of new heavyduty TOLSEN tools on display in the background.

Company Executives Manager Nadine Persaud was on hand, and thanked all attendees along with the Lusignan community for hosting the Crown Mining Golf Championships. Nadine reminded of the close to decadeslong partnership the company has shared with LGC, and committed to many more years of this enduring partnership.

The Lusignan Golf Club Executive Committee wishes to thank all attendees and staff for their continued adherence to all COVID protocols, and looks forward to doing its part to responsibly grow the game of golf in Guyana. The club is aiming to expand the game and its values to underserved communities.

est Indies and Guyana left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul is aiming to extend his dominance when the Regional 4-Day tournament bowls off next month.

Permaul who returned to Test cricket with a fivewicket haul against Sri Lanka in November 2021, has said he had to grab his opportunity with both hands and maximise.

"It is always a good feeling to play Test cricket. over the years, I was doing pretty well in First-class cricket, and did not have the opportunity, and I was waiting for the opportunity. I know that whenever the opportunity presented itself, I would be more experienced and grab it with both hands," the 32-yearold has said.

The left-arm spinner who played a Test match in June 2015 and then returned until

2021 is focused on adding to his tally of 544 First-class wickets after 122 matches.

And in the process, Permaul wants to bring the 4-Day championship back to Guyana.

"Continue doing what I was doing over the years for Guyana. Go out, get wickets, and try as much to see if we can win back Regional FourDay. We won it five years straight, and the last season was a mishap; and hopefully, this time around, we can get it back," he declared.

Permaul's road to a return is an inspiration to many.

Despite being consistent but being knocked down the door in Regional 4-Day cricket, Permaul kept pushing towards a recall, which eventually came. When asked if he ever felt like giving up, Permaul said: "Like I always said, I always believe in God, that I know the opportunity will

Veerasammy Permaul

come, but I did not know when. And I knew that once it came, I had to maximise and grab it and use it to full advantage."

Permaul's first innings in a Test return saw him ending with figures of 5-35 in 13 top overs. (Brandon Corlette)

MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 2022

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

Guyana Harpy Eagles trials…

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Junior Sinclair’s spectacular 11-wicket match haul highlights second trials Watkins, Harry and Bulkan dominate Crown Mining Golf Championships

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