Guyana Times -- Saturday, December 5, 2020

Brazil’s P Petrobras could expand into Guyana – CEO 13

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

Issue No. 4490

THE BEACON OF TRUTH SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020

President Ali invites former Presidents for Dec 15 meeting ...to create framework for development proposal

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WHAT'S INSIDE: Berbice stabbing

Teen pushes P5 father off bleeding mother, tells her to run – relatives

See story on page 3

“Don’t resist” foreign investment – outgoing Canadian envoy See story on page 7

…says Guyana should accept foreign skills until local capacity is created

Investors urged to look outside oil & gas sector for opportunities Page 9

Brutal murder of teen girl

Essequibo P8 Coast man slapped with murder charge

Border reopening

Guyana, Suriname working to synchronise P12 COVID-19 guidelines

…73 new cases recorded

…as Canada-Guyana Chamber of Commerce launched

42 companies Page submit 2 bids for construction of new Demerara Habour Bridge

Irregularities unearthed in NDIA contracts See story on page 10

…contractors adding extra costs after only fraction of work completed – Minister

Small businesses must register P13 to benefit from tax exemptions – GRA New traffic P13 measures announced to ease congestion on EBD

Farmers to be compensated for poorly P11 germinating GRDB paddy – Minister

2 NEWS 42 companies submit bids for construction of new Demerara Habour Bridge F SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

orty-two bids were submitted to the Public Works Ministry for the construction of the new Demerara Harbour Bridge.

The bids were removed from the tender box, counted and stamped on Friday in the presence of Public Works Minister Juan Edghill, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh and contactors at the Public Works Ministry, Wights Lane, Kingston.

Following the process, Edghill said that the proposals are very voluminous and now the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) will start the process for the awarding.

“Today, we took out from the tender box and counted before the whole world, 42 bids or proposals. I would like to thank all the companies, their principals and technical people who participated in this process. They have now given to the NPTAB and Government of Guyana, real work because the proposals

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill and Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh watch as the bids are removed from the tender box

are voluminous,” the Minister said, adding that the rules of engagement will be transparency, accountability and full

disclosure to the people of Guyana.

“That’s the assurances that the Irfaan Ali

Administration would have come to Government with.

That’s the modus operandi that we have followed since we are in Government and on this very significant public infrastructure project, we will continue to keep faith with the people of Guyana in keeping with the principles of good governance.”

Meanwhile, Dr Singh said that Friday’s exercise is important and historical.

“We witnessed probably an unprecedented level of interest in a major infrastructure project in Guyana. To begin with, the Demerara River Bridge crossing is a large and important project, and is one that will make a dramatic contribution to the improvement of our country’s transport infrastructure,” the Finance Minister said, while pointing out that everyone has witnessed that the current Demerara Harbour Bridge has outlived its lifespan and relevance in the Guyana of today.

Officers removing the bids for the new Demerara River bridge from the tender box on Friday

“One merely has to observe the daily traffic congestion on the East Bank of Demerara, both in the mornings and the evenings – which has contributed to thousands and thousands of lost manhours as people endure the daily commute into and out of the city,” Dr Singh noted.

He said that Government has recognised that it is critical to have a crossing of larger capacity, not just to meet the immediate needs and alleviate the challenges faced by the commuters of today, but also as part the longer-term vision for upgrading and expanding the transport infrastructure of the country more broadly.

“President (Irfaan) Ali has outlined an incredibly exciting vision for Guyana and it’s a vision that when realised, will see the Guyana of tomorrow being virtually unrecognisable, relative to the Guyana of today and yesterday...”, Singh said. He noted that all of the various elements are part of an agenda for a truly dynamic and vibrant economy. “Oil and gas is important but President Ali’s agenda and his mandate to his Ministers have in a very direct and frontal way, emphasised that alongside the exciting development of oil and gas, must be a dynamic and vibrant non-oil economy.”

Agriculture, tourism and hospitality, construction services, financial services and all of the other aspects of the non-oil economy, he said, Government has an intent of ensuring expands and grows and is competitive in a global setting.

“When we speak of local content, we speak simultaneously of ensuring that the non-oil sector is able to play its rightful role and its rightful place in the grand, economic vision of the future and the exciting economic future that lies before Guyana.

This is an extremely important project in its own right considering what it will do to increase productivity across the Demerara River but it must not be viewed as a project that stands alone but as a project of a much broader picture,” the Finance Minister added.

The bridge has outlasted its lifespan by more than 20 years. Since 2013, the then PPP/C Government had ex-

pressed the intention to construct a new Demerara River crossing as was stated during the National Budget presentation. According to that proposal, that bridge would have had four lanes, as well as a pedestrian walkway and a bicycle lane. Additionally, it was proposed to have navigational aids to avoid marine traffic from colliding with the structure. However, following a change of Government in 2015, the project descended into limbo. The APNU/ AFC, which was ousted from Government this year – firstly downscaled the design which saw a proposal for the bridge to be three lanes with a moveable section for marine traffic.

However, the contract for the feasibility study was sole-sourced by the APNU/ AFC Government which led to much controversy. This led to a probe into the awarding of the $148 million contract to Dutch company LievenseCSO. The probe found that several companies had bid for the project to do the feasibility study and design for the new Demerara River bridge and 12 companies had been shortlisted. The report had added that only two of the 12 companies had made proposals. As such, the bidding process was annulled. It added that on November 12, 2016, the Tender Administration Board approved the move for the project to be re-tendered.

The project was not re-tendered; instead, Dutch company LievenseCSO was engaged by the Public Infrastructure Ministry to do the work. The report also noted that the bid from LievenseCSO was “unsolicited”, but then APNU/AFC Minister David Patterson took the company’s proposal to Cabinet for approval, and Cabinet granted its approval for the company to be engaged.

The report stated that monies to be spent on the project were taken from the Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation (Asphalt Plant Accounts).

A probe was also conducted by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) into the awarding of the $146 million sole-sourced contract.

In November this year, Police again launched another investigation into the award of a contract to LievenseCSO in 2016.

NEWS

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, December 5 – 09:00h – 10:30h and Sunday, December 6 – 09:30h – 11:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

President Ali invites former Presidents for Dec 15 meeting ...to create framework for development proposal

President Dr Irfaan Ali

a national recount confirmed the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic’s electoral victory, the coalition continued with its delay tactics by moving to the courts.

It took mounting international and local pressure for the new Government to be sworn into office on August 2, 2020.

According to President Ali on Friday, democracy was greatly tested this year in Guyana but eventually prevailed with the support of international partners such as Canada, which called for

with others to inflate the votes in favour of the then coalition Administration.

As the electoral impasse continued months after the March polls, the ABCE diplomatic community continued mounting pressure on the APNU/AFC to concede defeat, warning of Guyana facing isolation and consequences.

In fact, the US had gone ahead and imposed visa restrictions against several former Government officials as well as electoral officials for their role in undermining de-

Commissioner Greg Quinn, and EU Ambassador Fernando Ponz Canto – were honoured and awarded by the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) at its Annual Awards Ceremony.

They were recognised for their “sterling contribution towards the preservation of democracy and democratic principles in Guyana.”

At the award ceremony, GMSA President Shyam Nokta described the electoral process as a “nightmare” and lauded the efforts of the ABCE

Former President David Granger

Former President Donald Ramotar

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo

Former President Samuel Hinds

the democratic will of the Guyanese people to be respected.

The ABCE (United States, British, Canada and European Union) diplomatic missions in Guyana were vocal in their calls for democracy to prevail in Guyana and for the will of the Guyanese people to be upheld after the APNU/AFC coalition refused to concede defeat at the March 2 polls and demit office.

The western diplomats had deemed the tabulation process for Region Four (DemeraraMahaica) – Guyana’s largest voting district – as lacking transparency and credibility.

This was after attempts were made by embattled Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo along

mocracy in Guyana.

However, this advocacy by ABCE diplomats had resulted in attacks against them by the former Government and coalition supporters.

“Canada was in [the] forefront of this defence, and it was Her Excellency, Lilian Chatterjee, the High Commissioner of Canada to Guyana, who courageously represented the values for which her country stood… She has been a diplomat with a different style… I thank you again for standing up for Guyana,” the Head of State posited.

Only Wednesday, High Commissioner Chatterjee and her ABCE colleagues – US Ambassador Sarah-Ann Lynch, former British High

envoys as well as the local Private Sector for ensuring democracy prevailed in Guyana.

“What was expected to be a relatively smooth process turned out to be a nightmare for the country, as it took five months for the winner to be declared and a new Government to take office. Those five months were difficult. The Private Sector collectively joined efforts with civil society, other local organisations and groups and the international community to ensure democracy prevailed,” Nokta stated.

According to the GMSA President, 2020 will be remembered as a year of challenges but also as a year when Guyanese withstood those challenges.

Saturday, December 5 – 07:30h – 09:00h and Sunday, December 6 – 08:25h – 09:55h.

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resident Dr Irfaan Ali has invited four past Presidents of Guyana to a meeting on December 15, 2020, to share different perspectives and discuss ideas on how to work collectively to move the country forward.

“In my inauguration speech, I committed to convening a meeting between all former Presidents of Guyana, and I have named December 15 as a date of the first meeting,” President Ali announced during an event at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on Friday.

He later told reporters that the formal invites for the meeting with the four former Presidents – Samuel Hinds, who briefly served as President in 1997; Bharrat Jagdeo, who served as Head of State from 1999 to 2011 and is currently a Vice President in the Ali Administration; Donald Ramotar, who served as President from 2011 to 2015, and David Granger, who served from 2015 to 2020 – were only sent out on Friday by his office.

According to President Ali, he is hoping this meeting will set the stage for similar engagements in the future.

“It will be an open-floor meeting, where we’ll bring together all the former Presidents. I think that it’s an opportunity for us to continue to share ideas, generate ideas; for us to talk about how we see Guyana’s development, different perspectives and then to work out a model and a framework on how we engage in the future and how we will have continuous contributions,” the Head of State explained.

President Ali assumed office as Guyana’s 9th Executive President in August following five months of electoral and political deadlock following the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections.

The former David Grangerled APNU/AFC Administration had refused to concede defeat at the March 2 polls and demit office. In fact, even after

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guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020

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

Traffic congestion

T

he traffic congestion on our roads, especially in and around the capital city and other commercial areas at present, is at the point where it is becoming almost unbearable for citizens. It is still the early days into the Christmas season, and already there is a build-up of traffic in major commercial and other areas; one could only imagine what the situation would be as we head closer to Christmas Eve, even in a COVID-19 environment where restrictive guidelines are expected to be followed as persons do their holiday shopping.

Even when we are out of the holiday season, the traffic congestion during rush hours in the mornings and evenings is also very stressful for citizens to cope with, especially those commuting to and from the city.

It is normal to spend more than a half-hour in the traffic when going or coming from work, especially in areas along the East Bank and East Coast corridors, where there is a huge build-up of traffic daily.

The situation at the Demerara Harbour Bridge is even worse. In addition to the bridge no longer being adequate to accommodate the large volume of traffic on a daily basis, many have complained that the traffic is badly managed by ranks. During rush hours, there is bumperto-bumper traffic, with some drivers bullying their way through and the Police stationed there seeming helpless.

Certainly, over the years, traffic congestion in the city and other main thoroughfares has gotten worse, and there could be a number of factors responsible for this. What we have noticed is that although there has been some improvement to the road network over the years, it has not been to the required level to match the demands of road users. Within the last 15 years or so, several new housing schemes were established, and several existing ones were expanded across the country, resulting in many more persons commuting to and from the capital city, where they go to school or work.

Also, within the last ten years or so, there has been a five-fold increase in the number of vehicles being driven on the roads; however, the road network expansion programme, even though improving, still cannot accommodate this massive increase.

That said, traffic congestion is not a problem that is unique to Guyana, and certainly cannot be totally eliminated. However, there are ways in which the authorities here could work together to manage the situation more effectively, which would result in less hassle for road users. For example, the authorities could seek to ensure that there is a greater Police presence in certain areas, so that there can be a smooth flow of traffic, as drivers are known to break the rules and bully their way when there is no Police presence. The authorities could also designate more routes for traffic diversion, especially during rush hours and in areas where there is a heavy traffic build-up.

However, the long-term solution with the expansion of the country’s road network would take some time.

The East Bank/East Coast road expansion project, once completed, would bring much relief to the travelling public. The new roadway would serve as a corridor for communities on the East Bank of Demerara, including Perseverance, Mocha, Providence, Eccles, Peters Hall and Aubrey Barker Road. Instead of going through the hectic Georgetown traffic, the new road link would allow drivers the option of diverting from the East Coast and onto the bypass road to access the East Bank of Demerara.

We urge the authorities to continue to look at ways in which the road network in Guyana could be further expanded, improved, rehabilitated and maintained.

Health workers displaying their personal care packages which were handed over by Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony on Friday. Inset: Minister Anthony hands over personal care packages to acting Director of the National Care and Treatment Centre (NCTC), Dr Gemma Seunandan. Also in photo are Dr Rhonda Moore, Programme Manager, National AIDS Programme Secretariat (NAPS); and Vishnu Tularam, Manager of the NCTC. The donation was part of the Ministry’s World AIDS Day 2020 initiative (DPI photos)

Focusing on peripheral caveat instead of true findings Dear Editor, The story “Oil company traps Ghana in long-term deal to take more gas than it needs: Int’l Watchdog warns Guyana to take heed” does a disservice to the Guyanese nation by fundamentally misrepresenting the findings of a new study from the respected Institute of the Americas, and choosing to ignore the forest for the trees.

Overall, the Institute of the Americas’ study: Guyana’s Gas to Power Potential, makes a thorough, well researched and resounding case for why gas-to-power would be among the most transformative steps Guyana could take this decade. It notes that gas would be absolute-

ly critical to meeting the Government’s ambitious target of cutting power costs by half, and could decisively end Guyana’s historic problems with costly and unreliable electricity.

We have, for decades, borne the highest energy costs in the Caribbean, and our power grid is one of the dirtiest in terms of emissions. We rely on unreliable, expensive and polluting heavy fuel oil imported from abroad. We finally have another option.

Despite the headlines, the study points out that, in Ghana, gas-to-power provided electricity for 1.6 million new households, decreased oil imports by 12 million barrels a year, and reduced carbon emis-

sions by 1.6 million metric tonnes. The study’s only caveat was that countries need to be careful with estimating power needs, lest they make a costly mistake.

Ghana made the mistake of signing a deal to pay for any gas it didn’t use.

That deal has cost that government millions, but it is a particularly unique circumstance. At the time, the country was facing a major power shortfall due to dwindling hydroelectric reservoirs and the threat of Nigeria cutting off supplies, so it overestimated the amount of gas it needed, and bought too much for the future.

Guyana faces neither problem, and there has been no hint that the coun-

try would have any reason to sign this kind of agreement; making it puzzling that news stories have chosen to focus on an important but ultimately peripheral caveat, instead of the true findings of this study.

One reading these stories might think this cautionary tale was the focus of the study, but the IoA joined a broad group of other international organisations that resoundingly support investing in Guyana’s future by building gas-to-power.

These stories do readers a disservice by implying that a respected group found otherwise.

Sincerely, Donald Singh

License to kill or drive

Dear Editor, In recent years, a huge number of road users have lost their lives needlessly in Guyana. According to the Home Affairs Ministry, fatalities on Guyana’s roadways have increased by some 42% during the period January 1 to September 14, 2020 when compared to the corresponding period last year, and fatal accidents have gone up by 37% during the review period when compared to 2019.

Statistics show that motorcyclists are among the largest categories of road users killed for the year thus far. It was also found that road fatalities occur mainly on Saturdays and Sundays, between 6 pm and 12 midnight. Kaieteur News pub-

lished an article containing a chart of accidents and deaths over the years 20052018, which reveals an average of 117 accidents and 133 deaths; meaning, there is at least 1 death for every accident, which when extrapolated indicates roughly 16 deaths per 100,000 persons.

As the country transforms into a high-tech vehicle state, the laws governing traffic infractions are, to say in modest terms, archaic and unfit, and embrace a Third World system of lopsidedness and porous enforcement regulations.

Successive regimes, with their hebetude-like approach to administration, have failed miserably to institute safeguards to curb the horrif-

ic numbers of road accidents, which produce lifelong disfigurement and fatalities that are perpetrated on a hapless, hopeless populace at the receiving end of the noveau riche with their ultra-modern mega-million-dollar vehicles but ultra-clumsy driving habits.

The huge influx of vehicles over the past decade carries terrible downstream effects in a country where egotistical, maniacal driving takes centre stage against the backdrop of a highly underpaid Police Force, notwithstanding constant allegations of persons obtaining licences under questionable and clandestine Police conduct.

Needles to state, the

courts have failed miserably in giving the victims compensation and satisfaction, while allowing these drivers, who commit murder using their vehicles, to leave the courts free…and once again enter the killing fields.

Each year, a new crop of drivers gets behind the wheel. The most logical evaluation simply indicates that the excitement to drive precipitates careless road usage, while a huge preponderance of minibuses is driven by the younger stratum of society.

I have long advocated, even corresponding with 2 former Home Affairs Ministers about the need for multi-level categories of licence.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020

5

News Berbice stabbing

Teen pushes father off bleeding mother, tells her to run – relatives …woman endured years of domestic violence

T

he 35-year-old housewife of Letter Kenny Village, Corentyne, who was on Wednesday stabbed multiple times by her husband, was living in an abusive relationship.

On Wednesday, Rajwattie Punni called “Sharida”, of Lot 105 Letter Kenny Village, was stabbed her husband, a fisherman, after he accused her of infidelity.

The couple had been married for 19 years and has three children. According to a close relative, the physical abuse started from the inception of the marriage.

“I use to tell her to leave him; to go away… She have relatives at Fyrish and I told her that she can go there,” a relative told this newspaper. Reports are the fisherman returned from the sea on Monday and allegedly said that he was going to end the woman’s life after he claimed infidelity.

Reports are that on Wednesday, the couple had an argument and shortly after, the fisherman was seen exiting the house and going into the yard where his wife was, where he began stabbing her.

Another relative, who witnessed what had occurred, said that she was too scared to intervene.

“He pick the knife up and started to stab her just like that. I could not do nothing at the moment when I see that,” the eyewitness said while noting that she screamed out to neighbours

Relatives said that Punni was repeatedly urged to leave the abusive relationship but always stayed after her husband threatened to commit suicide if she left.

On Tuesday evening, she sent a video with marks of violence on her upper body to relatives and stated that she had had enough and had made up her mind to finally end the years of abuse.

“He does beat her bad.

Sometimes he would pull her out of the bathroom na-

ked skin and beat her. Since they married, I telling her that I am scared for her,” a relative related.

The woman’s husband works as a fisherman for pirate accused Nakool Manohar called “Fiya”, who is currently on trial for the deadly 2018 piracy attack which left three dead and 12 still missing and presumed dead.

Reports are that the woman received four stabs to her upper chest, and a lung

was punctured. This newspaper was told that she has since undergone an eighthour surgery at the New Amsterdam Hospital but remains in a critical condition.

The suspect, who fled the scene, was later seen in Black Bush Polder. Police went to a house there but came up empty-handed as he made good his escape.

Family members remain fearful for their lives as the man remains on the run.

(Andrew Carmichael)

License to...

FROM PAGE 4

Injured and hospitalised: Rajwattie Punni, called “Sharida”

to help.

“One neighbour came over fast and when she was going to tell him to stop, he raised the knife on her so she backed out.”

A relative recalled that the couple’s 13-year-old son, who was sent on an errand to the shop, heard the screaming and returned home. According to the relative, the teenager rushed towards his father, pushed

him away and told his bleeding mother to run.

According to a relative, at the time “Wallis” was lying on his wife stabbing her repeatedly.

“After the son push him off, the mother get up and she run out of the yard and then she collapse,” the relative recalled.

Simply, one should not drive a commercial passenger vehicle without 5 years driving experience, accompanied with the necessary first aid training and HAZMAT testing.

The Guyana Police Force stated that the leading causes of traffic mishaps in the country are speeding and driving while under the influence of alcohol. Other major causes are driving while distracted by use of a cellphone, pedestrian inattentiveness, and failure to heed traffic signs and warnings. Road repairs, a seemingly perpetual dilemma, does not help neither. Poor light-

ing, absence of road markings, tinting, distractive loud music, encroachment by beer & food sheds, piles of sand, rice drying etc. all compound the dangers of both drivers and pedestrians.

By implementing heavy fines with a point system for violations and strict license suspensions drivers would become more conscious of their responsibilities. Speed cameras, enforcement of speed zones and more breathalyzer testing will greatly reduce accidents. Improved road conditions will alleviate the woes of meandering through the streets ad it is

truly mind-boggling to see people driving Prado and Mercedes yet cannot fix a simple pot hole.

Finally, do not ever believe that speeding minibuses facilate those late for work. Guyanese are not known to act with any form of alacrity and promptness in any sphere of activity (except, perhaps, a date or meeting at the rum shop).

Sadly, in the general lexicon of things, it seems obtaining a license to drive implies a license to kill. It is the new pandemic.

Sincerely, Leyland Chitlall Roopnaraine

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020

Page

Foundation

Æsop’s Fables

FOR CHILDREN

A

goat strayed away from the flock, tempted by a patch of clover. The goatherd tried to call it back, but in vain. It would not obey him. Then he picked up a stone and threw it, breaking the goat's horn.

The goatherd was frightened.

"Do not tell the master," he begged the goat.

"No," said the goat, "that broken horn can speak for itself!"

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

“Don’t resist” foreign investment – outgoing Canadian envoy …says Guyana should accept foreign skills until local capacity is created

O

utgoing Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Lilian Chatterjee on Friday said that Guyana will have to accept a foreign labour force while it works on developing its own capacity locally to absorb the unprecedented growth the country will undergo.

This comes in light of mounting concerns by Guyanese citizens and businesses that local opportunities will be usurped by foreigners.

However, speaking at the launch of the CanadaGuyana Chamber of Commerce on Friday, High Commissioner Chatterjee contended that Guyana’s rapid growth and need for goods and service provide opportunities for foreign direct investments.

But the Canadian envoy pointed out that Guyana lacks a skilled and sizable labour force to benefit from the explosive growth that is coming its way.

“You are already witnessing an influx of global political leaders and investors who want to do business in Guyana. Get ready! This is just the beginning… That [skilled] workforce does not exist right now in Guyana.

You do not have the population yet to be the engine of your rapid growth. Many oil-producing countries in the Middle East have under-

stood that. So, you should accept that others – and I suspect that they will mostly come from your geographic neighbours from Caricom (Caribbean Community) and in the Americas – to support your growth at the outside until Guyana can supply the skilled workforce that it needs,” Chatterjee posited.

She noted that even today, Canada still welcomes immigrants to provide the skilled workforce it needs to fuel its growth.

“Don’t resist foreign investment but use your judgement on who you can trust…

This is [the] Canadian approach – we will not flood you with an influx of Canadian employees but we will provide Canadian expertise…” she stressed.

The Canadian diplomat, who was speaking at her last public event before her tenure in Guyana comes to an end next week, said that while it is reasonable for foreign investors to want to profit off of Guyana’s investment, it is equally critical that they contribute to Guyana’s development for the benefit of Guyanese citizens.

Acknowledging concerns of Guyanese that foreign investors will take their jobs and skim the profits, the High Commissioner attested that the current Guyana Government is pushing for external investors to train

not be there. So, it is very important that we build and collaborate with partners internationally. Today, we’re building and collaborating with Canada,” the President noted.

Having understood the reality of this situation, Ali said it is important now for Government to bridge that gap and facilitate the foreign investment opportunities that will bring the skills, technology and capital that is needed to take Guyana forward.

On this note, the Head of State committed to facil-

Outgoing Canadian High Commissioner Lilian Chatterjee

and employ Guyanese citizens so that maximum benefits for the country is obtained. This is evident, she noted, in ongoing negotiations between Guyana and Canadian investors.

Chatterjee, who played an integral role in the establishment of the CGCC, said Canada has been a longstanding partner of Guyana for centuries. She noted that one of the most significant similarities between the two countries is the fact that they both have rich natural resources on which they rely to grow their economies.

“So, Canada understands Guyana. Canada is a trading nation that relies on a rules-based interna-

tional economic order to ensure a level playing field for our goods and services, and Guyana needs that too,” she asserted.

The Canadian diplomat reminded that Canada was here even before Guyana found oil, and supported Guyana’s development all along the way – something which she said will continue.

Meanwhile, President Dr Irfaan Ali while also speaking at the same event on Friday acknowledged Guyana’s lack of capacity.

“There must be a period of transition where the skills is not there, the technology might not be there and even the capital might

itating foreign investments that will benefit not just the investor but foremost, Guyana.

“I want to assure you that the Government of Guyana would not resist but assist foreign investors.

There is no point in saying we are a part of a global environment, of understanding we are competing in a global environment, of understanding that we are part of a global network but at the same time, do not recognise that we are also part of global competition,” he stated.

8 NEWS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Brutal murder of teen girl

Essequibo Coast man slapped with murder charge A

34-year-old man of Bounty Hall, Essequibo Coast in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) was on Friday charged for the brutal murder of 16-year-old Sanesha Lall.

Yougheshwar Kumar, also known as “Fat Man”, was not required to plead to the indictable charge when he appeared before Magistrate Esther Sam at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court.

He was remanded to prison and the matter was adjourned to December 29.

Lall, of Richmond Housing Scheme, Essequibo Coast, was on November 11 stabbed multiple times about her body by Kumar, who later attempted to commit suicide.

Kumar, who was arrested shortly after committing the act, had been hospitalised after he ingested a poisonous substance.

Reports are that Lall and the father of two shared a relationship, which ended some time ago.

However, on November 11, the man barged into the young girl’s home and en-

Remanded: Yougheshwar Kumar, called “Fat Man”

tered her bedroom, whipped out a Rambo knife and stabbed her multiple times about her body.

He then made good his escape but was later apprehended by Police.

Lall had been living with her siblings and without any proper adult supervision.

Her mother died in 2016 and then some two years later, her father died.

It was following the death of both parents that the young girl ended up in a “relationship” with the man,

who is married and has children.

At the time, the young girl was living with her siblings; two sisters and a brother. She had also dropped out of school.

Sometime later, she would have ended the relationship with the man as she was moving to the city to stay with some relatives.

However, she returned to her hometown earlier this year and several months later, she was stabbed to death by the man.

Last month, yet another man in his thirties was charged with the murder of yet another 16-year-old girl. Wickroy Mitchell, 38, also known as “Shatta”, of Number 53 Village, Corentyne, Berbice, was on November 19 remanded to prison for the murder of the teenager who resided at Baramita, North West District. Her identity was never revealed to the press. This newspaper understands that the girl was raped and then killed.

It is alleged that Mitchell murdered the 16-year-old girl between November 14 and 15.

O Dead: Sanesha Lall

Police reports had indicated that the teen and her mother were consuming alcohol at a nearby shop in the company of some men, including Mitchell. They later left for home with Mitchell.

Sometime later, the mother was observed alone at the shop. She spent some time there. The next morning, the girl’s dead body was discovered outside of her house.

Reports indicate that the post-mortem showed that the young girl was strangled. (G11)

Over 150 persons in Region 10 charged for violating COVID-19 curfew – Police

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ver 150 persons in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) have been charged for violating COVID-19 curfew guideline measures to date, according to statistics presented by the Police Division at the launch of the annual Christmas Policing Plan.

In delivering the Regional Policing COVID-19 Review, Inspector Collette Evans emphasised that the Division has been working hard to ensure that all guidelines are being adhered to by citizens.

Inspector Evans said that the safety measures and guideline implemented by the Health Ministry are aimed at keeping the population safe to curb the spread of the virus.

“The Guyana Police

Inspector Collette Evans

Force is mandated to enforce those restrictions and the police in the Regional Division 10 has been enforcing the COVID-19 restric-

tions where eighty-five cases are presently before the court. From those cases, 153 persons were charged between the period April

Moving on…

2020 to date. In some cases, persons were ordered to pay fines while some were given community service,” Inspector Evans said.

She added that due to the spike in the pandemic in Guyana and further afield, the regional division is enforcing COVID-19 restrictions by engaging, encouraging, educating and enforcing COVID-19 restrictions. Inspector Evans said that while the COVID-19 emergency measures are still in place, ranks are urging members of the public to comply with those restrictions by wearing their face masks, sanitising hands and maintaining good physical and social distancing.

The curfew time across Guyana remains from 22:30h to 04:00h. (G13)

…from Haiti nce again, Haiti and Haitians are in the news. Poor Haiti…because they’re the poorest nation in the hemisphere, everybody washes their mouth on them. And ironically, they were the very first slave nation to take on the might of an European Imperial power (the French) to throw off their yoke - and come out victorious!!

Now, don’t tell your Eyewitness about the US throwing out the Brits - they might have OWNED slaves, but they were a SETTLER colony. Meaning that the whites in control were seen as one by the Brits. Not so with the Haitians, who had to pay what amounted to a bounty to France for over a hundred years in order to remain free!

Then, to make matters worse, they were saddled with a succession of despotic leaders, like Papa Doc and his son Baby Doc, who imitated the French Monarchs of yore both in their ostentatious lifestyle and their cruelty. Be that as it may, not so long ago, after Burnham was done with us, we reached such a level of poverty that the eminent WI Statesman Alister McIntyre in 1989 announced in an official report that we were precariously perched just over Haiti!

So even if it weren’t for their history of fighting for freedom in the region, we ought to be sympathetic to the travails of the Haitian people. We, luckily, were spared the rule of Baby Jesus when his father-in-law (presumably God) inexplicably expired!

But back to the poor Haitians, who’ve been using every means of transport available to flee a life of horror in their native land. By foot to the Dominican Republic, with which they share the island of Hispaniola; by (frequently capsizing) boats to Florida; and now by plane to any country in the hemisphere that would allow them to land. Generally, they then proceed to either Brazil, where a huge community has settled in several slums; or French Guiana, where they are also dominant in their slums. En route, a ton of them have settled in Chile, from where they were supposed to be in- transit.

In all their travels out of Haiti, they’re facilitated by what we called “backtrackers” in Guyana, before the US started handing out visas by the thousands to all and sundry. And to some who weren’t all that sundry!! Guyanese used to pay these “coyotes” US$10,000 a pop. It’s about US$300 for Haitians.

Now, while there’s a humanitarian crisis in Haiti, Guyana has to take control of its border policy…or pretty soon, like Chile, we might have a crisis we can’t control. Cause it’s not just the Haitians…there are the Venezuelans, Brazilians and, soon, the rest of the Caribbean looking for El Dorado. …up There used to be an old US comedy sitcom called “The Jeffersons”, which had a theme song, “We’re movin’ on up… to the East Side”. The latter was, of course, the posh section of Manhattan, where all the big ones lived. Like Trump! Well, US Congressman Gregory Meeks - from the boondocks of Brooklyn - has been elected the new Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, making him the first AfricanAmerican to lead that powerful congressional body. This is even better than movin’ to the Upper East Side!!

Now you, dear reader, might be wondering what Mr Meeks’ meteoric rise has to do with us, but that would mean you’ve forgotten what a salutary role he played in bringing back democracy to our dear land of Guyana. When the Sanctimonious Gangster was trying to Mingo our elections, he’d flown in and called him out!

So now he’ll be calling the shots on Foreign Affairs in a Democratic Congress, let’s see how far Harmon gets with his lobbying!! …to a Presidential Summit President Irfaan Ali pulled off another masterstroke when he announced he’s convening a conclave of all the former presidents of our republic to discuss “development”.

Let’s see how the Sanctimonious Gangster explains how rigging helps development!

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

9 Investors urged to look outside oil & gas sector for opportunities NEWS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

…as Canada-Guyana Chamber of Commerce launched

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s foreign interests in Guyana continues to grow, investors are being encouraged to explore outside the oil and gas sector and tap into the many opportunities that are available for investment in Guyana.

This charge was made by

mony, President Ali pointed out that the establishment of the CGCC represents the enormous level of confidence in Guyana’s future.

“It signals the high expectation for Guyana’s economic prospects… The world is expressing confidence in

markets and even an expansion of that access in the future as the two countries seek to further solidify trade and business relations.

Moreover, President Ali went on to outline that while there are a host of investment opportunities available

growth of our tourism sector, we will also be more than grateful to not only encourage you but to facilitate those investments. There is no better time than now to have this interest in Guyana.

There is no better opportunity than to make use of all that is ahead in our economy,” the Guyanese leader stressed.

Wide array and diverse sectors

President Ali with Canadian High Commissioner Lilian Chatterjee, CGCC Chairman Anand Beharry, CGCC CEO Natalia Seepersaud (far right) and CGCC Board Member Patricia Bacchus (far left)

President Dr Irfaan Ali at the launch of the Canada-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (CGCC) on Friday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.

With offices in both countries, the Canada-Guyana Chamber of Commerce is aimed at strengthening twoway trade and investments in the two nations and providing support to Canadian and Guyanese businesses.

The new Chamber already has over two dozen members in Guyana – some of which are partners with major Canadian companies.

During his feature address at the launching cere-

Guyana’s economy. Today, the Canadian private sector is joining with the Guyanese private sector in expressing confidence in the economy. The Government has to ensure that we work closely with the private sector in realising that confidence,” he asserted.

Investor friendly

On this note, Ali posited that while Guyana has always been investor-friendly, he expects the same environment to be created for Guyanese companies wanting to expand abroad.

According to Ali, Guyana anticipates continued duty-free access to Canadian

in Guyana, investors must look outside the oil and gas sector to invest.

“I urge you to think outside of the box [and] to look beyond the narrow news headlines Guyana receives these days – that’s oil and gas. We have one of the best tourism products. We can compete any day with Costa Rica but we don’t have the investment,” the Head of State lamented.

He further highlighted that there is a lack of direct air services between Guyana and Canada. He said airlift is one of the areas that Guyana needs more competition in.

“So, if [the Chamber] can help us to facilitate the

Meanwhile, Chairman of the new Chamber of Commerce, Anand Beharry told the gathering at Friday’s launch that the CGCC’s founding membership already spans a wide array and diverse sectors such as banking and financing, human resources, supply and management, food and beverage production, retail, insurance, international charitable organisations, logistics, medical services, mining, oil and gas exploration, oil and gas services and construction materials and hardware supplies.

“This is reflective of Your Excellency’s drive for a highly diversified economy that will not be oil and gas-dependent,” the Chairman asserted.

Beharry, whose Edward Beharry and Company Limited is one of the 24 local founding members of the CGCC, explained that in addition to strengthening private sector ties between the two western hemisphere nations, the CGCC will also serve as a business advisory body to the Governments of Guyana and Canada on bilateral matters related to trade and investments.

President Irfaan Ali speaking at the launch of the Canada-Guyana Chamber of Commerce

“Members of the CGCC will have access to a wide network of entrepreneurs and decision-makers to help create and facilitate business opportunities. The Chamber intends to be a centralising hub for the diaspora to re-engage in their homeland,” he stated.

Historic moment

Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of International Trade at Global Affairs Canada, John Hannaford in a virtual message said that the launch of the CGCC represents a historic moment for business and private sector networks of Guyana and Canada. He noted that it provides a dedicated space for the continued building of already strong and bilateral trade and investment relationship.

“Canada and Guyana have developed important trade and investment ties in mining, forestry, agriculture, the financial sector and oil and gas. As Guyana grows as a major oil producer, Canada will remain by your side and further develop commercial partnerships, while providing important capacity building,”

Hannaford said.

According to the Canadian Minister, the launch of this Chamber is a timely intervention as the need to expand international trade and investment has never been greater especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The Chamber can further facilitate Canadian companies [to] enhance presence in key priority sectors and in new ones, while enabling Guyanese companies to increase their investments in Canada. Extensive people to people links also enable the rich commercial relationship between our countries,” he noted.

With almost one million people of Caribbean descent forming the diaspora in Canada, including a large Guyanese-Canadian diaspora, Hannaford lauded the Chamber for its plans to promote inclusion and gender equality by encouraging women entrepreneurs and small business owners as well as entrepreneurs from under-represented groups to take part in the opportunities that will become available through its establishment.

10 NEWS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Irregularities unearthed in NDIA contracts

…contractors adding extra costs after only fraction of work completed – Minister

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha

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griculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha on Friday revealed several irregularities that were unearthed, relating to the extension of contracts for works in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), whereby works were extended for a significant figure, with only a fraction of the work being completed.

During a press briefing, he said this trend was observed in contracts awarded for works for the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority – a major entity under the Ministry. There are also cases where the contract was increased without approval from the relevant authorities.

In one instance, a contract was awarded on July 1, 2020, for the operation, servicing and monitoring of hydraulic excavators for Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), whereby the contractor was tasked with supervising Government’s machinery and providing fuel. To the tune of $64,716,350, the original bill of quantity budgeted was for approximately

44,000 rods of channel to be dug and 75,000 cubic yards of canal to be excavated.

However, only a portion of the works was completed and a request was made for variation, for an additional $44.5 million without any permission for such.

The Minister clarified that in order for a variation to be done, approval is needed. Now, Cabinet has taken a decision to put these works on hold until clarity is provided.

“The contractor would have cleared 25,000 rods and dug 1101 cubic yards of canals. Before a variation has to be done, you have to have approval for variation…They extended the contract by $46,500,000 for this. This is like a fait accompli because they would have extended the contract and extended the contract sum, they then send it to the Tender Board. The Tender Board would have to send it to Cabinet for no objection.

I just put in on hold and Cabinet even decided that we can’t do things like this,” the Minister positioned.

In a second occurrence, another contractor of the same contract was also awarded in July for $34,114,275 for 28,000 rods of channel to be cleared and 30,000 cubic yards of canal to be excavated. The contract was extended for variation after the contractor completed only 19,880 rods and cleared 21,300 cubic yards. This time, the additional figure was over 100 per cent more than the initial contract cost.

He added, “Again, the contract was extended to the tune of $35 million – over 100 per cent although the contractor would have completed less work at the time.

So, this is a cause for concern… Extending a contract is not unusual but doing so in excess of 100 per cent is a breach and a concern for me as Minister.”

He noted that both contractors are frequently hired to carry out such works and Government must get its value for the monies expended. Auditor General Deodat Sharma has already been asked to probe this matter, after which Government will make a decision on its next move.

“I’ve since sent this to the Auditor General to do an investigation on this matter.

I will be waiting on him before I advise on the way forward. This goes to show how these entities have been operating over the years…A lot of funds are going to these places. We have to have our value for money. Over the years, there has been many oppositions about people colluding with contractors and increase the rate of these works.”

On the aspect of increasing contracts without ap-

provals, Mustapha said this is a breach of the National Procurement Act. Closer attention will be paid to contracts in the new year, however, he and expressed that these issues are as a result of loopholes in the system under the previous Administration, enabling an avenue for corrupt activ-

ities.

Going forward, the various agencies under the Ministry will be engaged in systems that will be put in place to prevent such activities by contractors.

“I’m putting these checks and balances in the regions also. I’m also looking at rotating these engi-

neers so that they will not be in an area for too long…

The system that was implemented by the previous Administration is a system that is open for corruption.

You can manipulate the system easily. I think we have to put proper procurement regulation in place,” the Minister asserted.

Schools to close on December 18 for Christmas …to reopen on January 4

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File photo: Children returning to school under strict COVID-19 guidelines

he Education Ministry has announced that the current school term will end on December 18 to facilitate the two-week vacation period for students during the Christmas season.

This is according to a memorandum signed by the Chief Education Officer Dr Marcel Hutston. The document also noted that schools will reopen for the Easter Term 2021 on January 4.

Schools have been closed in Guyana since March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

They were briefly reopened to facilitate key exams for primary and secondary pupils.

When the new PPP/C Government assumed office in August, Education Minister Priya Manickchand began a series of consultations with stakeholders regarding the possibility of reopening schools.

It was initially decided

that schools would remain closed but the Education Ministry would spearhead a multi-faceted approach to learning to ensure students are meaningfully engaged until a period when it was safe to reopen schools. This approach included the distribution of physical worksheets to students, online learning and the broadcasting of educational materials via radio and television. In some instances, chalkboards were erected in various communities to assist students.

All the while, the Education Minister continued consultations with stakeholders on the reopening of schools. Eventually, it was decided that schools would be reopened on November 9 – for Grades 10, 11 and 12 and those attending practical, technical and vocational institutes.

The Education Ministry had also given parents the option of keeping their chil-

dren home if they were uncomfortable sending them back to school in the COVID-19 situation.

It was reported that there was a 60 per cent turnout of the 21,000 registered students for Grades 10, 11 and 12 on the first day of reopening.

The Education Minister would have later revealed that some 2000 students have not turned out to school since the reopening for Grades 10, 11, and 12.

She made the announcement on Saturday last whilst delivering remarks at an event hosted by the First Assembly of God Wortmanville Church in Georgetown.

During her address, Minister Manickchand said that the reasons for absenteeism include a number of issues including fear of the pandemic.

Other issues, she highlighted, could be parents not having enough resources to send their children to school.

As such, the Education Minister had committed to engaging churches, temples, masjids, and other religious bodies and organisations to assist the State in determining where the students are and how they can be supported in their efforts in pursuing an education.

One of the main thrusts behind the reopening of schools had to do with concerns about learning loss.

Minister Manickchand had previously explained that international data shows that the longer children are away from school, there is a likelihood of having serious learning loss and school dropouts. (G11)

NEWS

11

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Farmers to be compensated for poorly Lindener to be charged for germinating GRDB paddy – Minister vendor’s murder – DPP advises

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armers across the country who have been facing challenges with poor germination of the high-yielding GRDB 10 variety paddy will be compensated.

This is after the Agriculture Ministry conducted an investigation into this occurrence, which showed a trend between both paddy produced by the Guyana Rice Development Board and contracted growers.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha on Friday noted during a press conference that complaints have been pouring in from rice cultivators, sharing their concerns over the fact that this variety has not been germinating. He said it has been detected with seeds produced both at the GRDB stations and through contracted growers.

“Farmers have been [having] problems with it. I have received complaints from as far as Essequibo. I have already given instruction that we have to ensure that we compensate those farmers and ensure that we replace those seeds to get proper seedlings. The other varieties, however, we have not received any complaints,” Mustapha expressed.

He noted that many persons have chosen the GRDB 10 because of its high yielding characteristic. However, he pointed towards the GRDB 16 variety – which has the “high-

Farmers have been facing poor germination with GRDB 10

est potential” in Guyana.

“The GRDB 10 is a high yielding variety. That is why most farmers are trying to get this variety. Not only GRDB 10 has this problem, those farmers who were contracted and who grew their own paddy have been having this problem…I want to encourage farmers to use that variety (GRDB 16). I think that variety has the highest potential in our country.”

The Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) produces approximately 25,000 bags of seed paddy annually at the Rice Research Station at Burma, Mahaicony, and another 5000 bags using contracted growers. Farmers purchase seeds from GRDB and also produce seeds. The Board produces seeds for 12 varieties.

Apart from GRDB 10, it posited that all other varieties showed good germination. This specific variety was released in 2009, since then slow germination was noted

by the researchers and farmers. Consequently, the Board has been working towards developing new rice varieties with excellent germination and seedling vigour in the field. To this end, the newer varieties, namely: GRDB 14, GRDB 15, GRDB 16 have achieved this feat.

“GRDB 10 has always required that the conditions favouring germination; moisture, heat, oxygen are optimum. Even when optimum conditions are met, the variety, GRDB 10, sometimes show slow/poor germination.

It is important to note that timely harvesting of seeds, proper drying and storage affect germination of seed in general,” the Ministry said in a subsequent statement.

Optimum conditions for germination are a temperature range of 28-340C, free flow of oxygen, moisture. They are advising farmers to soak the GRDB 10 seeds for 18-24 hours and press in small pieces for 36 to 54 hours.

“The GRDB officers are working closely with farmers, providing technical advice to towards better germination.

All farmers who purchased seeds from GRDB which showed poor germination will have their seed stock being replaced, after verification.”

To protect against genetic vulnerability, cultivators are advised not to have one variety covering majority acreages of the country.

“The GRDB 10 became the most popular variety because of its high yielding ability. The GRDB has always advised farmers to have a diverse varietal preference in the farms, thus its continued research work in developing newer higher-yielding varieties. The new variety GRDB 16 has the potential of actually becoming the preferred variety, especially since it addresses the issues found in earlier varieties and is of different genetic composition than the GRDB 10,” it also added. (G11)

week after his body was discovered with gaping wounds, Police in Linden have made a breakthrough in cracking the case in the murder of street vendor, Dwane “Levi” Williams also known as “Sweetie Man”.

On Friday, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) advised that the charge of murder be laid against Lindener Larry Da Silva. He is expected to appear in court to answer to the charge on Monday. Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) Divisional Commander, Superintendent Hugh Winter noted that the recommendation came a day after Police sought legal advice on the case after the investigation wrapped up on Thursday. The accused was one of several persons questioned by Police in relation to the murder and was detained based on information gathered by investigators.

The body of the 54-yearold street vendor of lot 52 B Wismar Housing Scheme, Linden, was reportedly discovered at a street location at Wismar Housing Scheme last Friday morning with suspected stab wounds. A post-mortem examination conducted on his body has since given the cause of death as an incised wound to the neck.

Williams’ body was discovered by residents who then summoned Police to the scene.

His body was found with a gaping wound to the neck and another to the right wrist.

Dead: Dwane Levi Williams, also known as “Sweetie Man”

A resident in the area who spoke with this publication on Friday said a knife was observed in a drain a short distance away from the body.

While details surrounding the street vendor’s death remain sketchy, investigators suspect that the man, who lived alone, died sometime between Thursday evening and Friday morning.

According to a relative, he visited his mother’s home at One Mile, Wismar, Linden, at about 21:00h last Thursday where he spent a few minutes, after which he left for home to cook.

The relative further stated that at about 05:45h on Friday, the family received information from persons in the area that the deceased’s body was seen lying behind a shack.

The scene was searched by Police and a knife suspected to be the murder weapon was found. (G13)

12 NEWS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Border reopening

Guyana, Suriname working to synchronise COVID-19 guidelines

…73 new cases recorded

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he Health Ministry on Friday announced that 73 new COVID-19 cases were recorded. Guyana has reported a total of 5601 cases and 151 deaths. In its daily dashboard update, the Ministry noted that there are five patients in the Intensive Care Unit, 45 persons in institutional quarantine, 705 in home isolation and 22 in institutional quarantine.

To date, 4595 persons have recovered completely and 31,270 have been tested.

A breakdown showed that 18 new cases were detected in Region One (Barima-Waini), two in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), two in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara), 30 in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica), one in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), one in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), 10 in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), three in Region Nine (Upper

Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and six in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

In Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni), positives remain at 180.

Synchronising COVID-19 guidelines

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony has shared that Guyana is working with Surinamese counterparts to synchronise the COVID-19 guidelines, as preparations continue for the reopening of the border on December 12.

“We have been working with the Surinamese authority to ensure that we can synchronise our guidelines or protocols for the reopening of the Moleson Creek port and as our guidelines are fairly stringent,” he explained.

As it stands, a PCR test is required within 72 hours to be allowed into Guyana without quarantine. If the test was done beyond 72

be reopened, whereby operators and passengers are asked to comply with port health measures issued by the Health Ministry.

The Guyana-Suriname Ferry Service has been closed since March 14, 2020 – days after the first COVID-19 case was recorded in Guyana, prompting the shutdown of all ports of entry. In October, Guyana made a decision to reopen its two airports to international commercial flights.

Just last week, authorities in Guyana and Suriname said they were working to have the ferry service between the two countries resumed as early as possible since the MV Canawaima had been out of operation for months. This is after President Irfaan Ali made a State visit to the Dutch-speaking neighbour and held talks with President Chandrikapersad Santokhi.

hours and within seven days, it is a requirement that the traveller undergoes another test upon arrival.

This is slightly different in Suriname.

“Suriname’s protocols are slightly different. In addition to the PCR that they require to enter, they also require people to be in quarantine for 14 days. There is a little bit of a difference so people travelling over to Suriname would have to go into quarantine. So, we’re trying to synchronise and we are currently wrapping up,” the Minister added.

Government had taken a decision to extend the National COVID-19 measures throughout the month of December, and give the green light for the reopening of travel between Guyana and Suriname via the ferry service.

From December 12, the Moleson Creek Crossing to facilitate travel between Guyana and Suriname will

Doobay Medical Centre donates 1 Essequibo Coast man drowns million masks to Health Ministry after stumbling into trench T

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56-year-old man of Richmond, Essequibo Coast, reportedly fell into a trench and drowned following a full day of consuming alcohol.

Dead is Pooran Kumar Silas, a pump attendant, who was discovered in the trench outside his home at around 06:00h on Friday.

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) said at around midday on Thursday, the man left home to consume alcohol.

The man’s sister told investigators that she last saw him at around 21:00h when he returned home from his drinking spree.

However, the next morning, neighbours dis-

covered his body floating in the trench.

The police were contacted and they examined the body for marks of violence but none were seen.

Nevertheless, a post-mortem examination will be conducted.

Investigations are ongoing.

he Doobay Medical and Research Centre on Friday mobilised several donors to assist the Health Ministry, by contributing one million masks to aid in the COVID-19 fight.

The donors in this venture included Demerara Distillers Limited, Ganesh Parts, Gafoors and Najab Trading. The one million masks were handed over to the Health Ministry at the Materials Management Unit at Diamond, on the East Bank of Demerara.

Chief Executive Officer of DDL, Komal Samaroo shared some insight on the donation, noting that it will benefit both the public and health workers.

“There are two aspects of this donation. First of all, there is 900,000 three-ply masks for use for the general public. Secondly, there is 100,000 four-ply masks and 9000 face shields to be used by health workers in the Ministry of Health so we are supporting the effort in both ways,” Samaroo indicated.

DDL CEO Komal Samaroo handing over the items to PS Malcolm Watkins

Permanent Secretary Malcolm Watkins would have recognised the challenges in the supply chain of personal protective equipment as he welcomed the contribution. He said the Ministry would also be able to redirect their spending in other critical areas.

“The supply chain for PPEs has become very com-

plex because of the uncertainty of the COVID-19 virus so we’re doing our best to integrate these donations into our supply chain plan so that we don’t incur any form of wastage. We would use these quantities to adjust our spending so that we can use money in other critical areas,” the PS highlighted.

NEWS

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Brazil’s Petrobras could New traffic measures announced expand into Guyana – CEO to ease congestion on EBD

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Petrobras CEO Roberto Castello Branco

razil’s Petrobras could expand its operations into neighbouring Guyana, if the regulatory environment does not improve in Brazil, CEO Roberto Castello Branco said on Thursday, the first official admission of interest in the hot frontier oil play.

Petroleo Brasileiro SA, as the company is formally known, has exploration interests off Brazil’s northern coast. There is speculation among geologists that parts of that area could

share similar geology with Guyana, whose production is quickly expanding after a series of blockbuster offshore finds.

Petrobras executives have been asked in the past if they would be interested in the nation. However, they have consistently said that they prefer to focus on oil exploration and production in Brazil.

During the biennial Rio Oil & Gas conference, Castello Branco said onerous environmental licensing

requirements in Brazil were pushing the oil firm to consider Guyana.

“We have (in northern Brazil) the potential for a great oil basin and we’re barred. At the same time, Guyana is taking advantage of the situation,” Castello Branco said. “(Guyana) attracts us.

For now, we’re continuing to invest in Brazil, but it’s possible we go over there as well, preferring that to generating value, generating jobs in a very poor region of Brazil.”

Exploration in northern Brazil has generated significant controversy and regulatory pressure in part because of the presence of an extensive coral reef off the coast of Brazil and neighbouring French Guiana.

In September, France’s Total SA exited a cluster of five exploration blocks dubbed Foz de Amazonas, and sold its stake to Petrobras, following difficulties with environmental permitting. (Reuters)

Small businesses must register to benefit from tax exemptions – GRA

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mall business owners have been urged by representatives of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), National Insurance Scheme (NIS), Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) and the Commercial Registry to register with those entities to access services to help their businesses develop. The Small Business Bureau on Wednesday evening hosted a webinar for small and micro enterprises (SMEs) to examine solutions small business owners could use to improve their operations in 2021.

GRA’s Communications Officer Fabian Clowes, the Department of Public Information reported, said registered business owners could benefit from tax concessions/exemptions.

He highlighted that small manufacturers who import raw materials and packaging materials could be exempted from paying customs duties and VAT on the imports, once they are registered and they apply to the GRA

Commissioner General.

He added that tour operators in Regions One (Barima-Waini); Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni); Eight (Potaro-Siparuni); Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) can be eligible for exemption of payment of corporation tax for a maximum of 10 years, providing the business is registered and the Commissioner General is satisfied with the criteria for compliance.

Clowes also encouraged persons to regularly check on their tax status, to avoid unpredictable circumstances, for example, when applying for tax compliance.

Public Relations Officer of the GNBS, Lloyd David said the agency trains business owners on standards to enhance efficiency and improve quality of the service they provide as part of its business support services.

The Bureau also provides certification for measurements and has some 500 standards in play.

David said SME standards

could be applied to increase efficiency, productivity and quality of the product.

David added that business owners should apply for their standards from the GNBS, and they will receive assistance in the selection of the standards and guidance will be provided during the application process.

In 2021, the GNBS will target small businesses, so that they could reach the identified standards and be certified.

Business Name Supervisor from the Registry, Vandaleeza Balgobin said persons must first register their business name at the Commercial Registry to ensure they are operating legally.

She noted that business owners who register could benefit from loans and have easier access to opening bank, visa and travel accounts. Registration also provides security for a business’s name and proves legal ownership.

Meanwhile, NIS Training Officer Dane Chesney urged businesses to ensure their contributions are up to date, in case of unforeseen issues that may negatively affect them.

He said they should ensure their payments are current and comply with all requirements so they could receive compensation benefits in case of loss of income.

The webinar, titled, “Challenges and Solutions for Micro and Small Enterprises in Guyana” continued on Thursday evening.

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he Guyana Police Force on Friday announced new measures to ease traffic congestion on the East Bank of Demerara.

According to the GPF, following a meeting with the General Manager of the Demerara Harbour Bridge, Rawlston Adams; Deputy Commissioner “Operations” (ag) Clifton Hicken; Police Commander Region

Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara), Senior Superintendent Errol Watts among other senior officials a decision was taken to have the Demerara Harbour Bridge closed to traffic heading to West Demerara on Mondays to Fridays from 06:15h to 07:00h.

This decision was taken to facilitate two lanes of eastbound traffic on the bridge is in an effort to re-

duce congestion during the peak period.

“The Force (Guyana Police Force) also wishes to urge persons travelling from West Demerara to make use of this arrangement in an effort to ease the buildup of traffic along the East and West Banks of Demerara.

An average of 10,000 vehicles traverse the crossing daily which was initially designed to last for 20 years.

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

5 tourism businesses given approval to reopen Operating Procedures (SOPs) to the GTA for a desk review, and an on-site inspection of businesses to verify the implementation of the SOPs and approval by the GTA. It is recommended that domestic and international travellers use only approved tourism businesses to book and plan their tour activities. Anyone who chooses to go on tour with a business

T

he Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) has announced that the Baganara Island Resort, Hurakabra River Resort, Rock View Lodge, Waikin Ranch, and Elite Kayaking & Nature Tours have all received conditional approval, which is tied to the National COVID-19 measures and GTA’s recommended Hygiene and Sanitation protocols, to reopen, and can commence welcoming travellers to their properties.

By this weekend, four additional businesses will be inspected, and based on a desk review of their Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), are anticipated to receive approval to reopen early in the new week.

As part of its ongoing efforts to train, inspect and provide the approval, the GTA said on Friday, it has now been listed as an essential service under the latest

COVID-19-gazetted measures. This development ensures the inspection team can easily access regions and locations that were previously inaccessible, in order to ensure that businesses are up and running again in a safe way.

Businesses that receive the conditional approval are reminded to maintain the protocols as outlined by the Guyana Tourism Authority and the nationally-gazetted measures. Failure to adhere to these measures would result in the revocation of the conditional approval tied to the COVID-19 measures.

Additionally, as a result of collaborative efforts and intervention between the GTA, THAG and the National COVID-19 Task Force (NCTF), there will now be a two-step process for tourism businesses to reopen. The 2-step process entails: submission of businesses’ written Standard

that has not been assessed and approved by the GTA is basically putting themselves and their tour group at risk.

The GTA has indicated that lodges have shared that there is strong interest by domestic travellers to venture out to experience nature, especially after being confined to their homes for several months. Recognising the level of interest in travel, GTA Director Carla

James has said that “as tourism businesses receive the conditional approval for reopening, the GTA will roll out a marketing campaign to drive the demand and bookings, so businesses that have been closed for more than eight months can start to generate revenue and re-employ staff who were affected by the pandemic and the lockdowns”.

She further stated that

“Guyana is uniquely positioned to be one of the safest destinations in relation to social distancing. Our vast, pristine, open landscapes and small group numbers lend to a more intimate tourism experience, which is ideal for travel in the new norm. Based on this and the resilience of the tourism businesses, the outlook for tourism recovery is a positive one,” she has said.

COVID-19 grant distribution to begin next week in Region 4

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esidents of Region Four (DemeraraMahaica) are expected to start receiving the Government’s $25,000 per household COVID-19 relief cash grant during the course of the new week.

Local Government and Regional Development Minister, Nigel Dharamlall made this disclosure on Friday during an interview with State media.

“We will begin distribution in Region Four shortly, more than likely next week…It will be in the first phase – 136,000 households with over $3.4 billion being distributed,” he said.

Distribution is expected to begin along the East Bank and the East Coast Demerara (ECD) on Monday, December 7.

CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)

INFORMATION AND GUIDELINES

Distribution clerks are currently undergoing logistics training at the Hope Secondary School, ECD, to facilitate a smooth distribution exercise. Training on the East Bank is scheduled for later today.

On September 7, President Dr Irfaan Ali announced that every household would receive the grant to cushion the effects of the pandemic.

Distribution began on September 29 in the outlying regions given their vulnerable economic state, and has been completed in seven regions.

The Government is in the final stages of the distribution in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) and Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice). Region

File photo of distribution in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice)

Four’s distribution will start thereafter.

“The position of the Government has remained constant, and that is we will be issuing to primary households, and those households that cannot be verified as independent, they will have to fill out a ‘pink’ form to

be verified. Following the verification, the secondary households will be provided for,” Minister Dharamlall explained.

Communities will be notified prior to being served; however, a distribution schedule will not be publicised for security reasons.

SYMPTOMS

People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness.

Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms or combinations of symptoms may have COVID-19:

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF? Cough

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Or at least two of these symptoms:

Fever People who think they may be affected by coronavirus need to call the Public Health Ministry hotline 227-4986/624-3067 for further advice. They should not go to their GP, A&E, pharmacy or hospital.

If you have come into contact with somebody who may be infected, you may be told to self-isolate. People needing to do so should take "common-sense" steps to avoid close contact with other people.

(Adapted from BBC News)

Headache

Chills

Sore throat

Repeated shaking with chills

Muscle pain

Children have similar symptoms to adults and generally have New loss of taste mild illness. or smell

NEWS

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Army Chief visits troops at Camp Jaguar

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amp Jaguar, at New River, Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), rang in the festive season on Wednesday.

The troops serving at the location welcomed Chief of Staff Brigadier Godfrey Bess and his team for the observance of the traditional Soldiers’ Day. Residents of the surrounding communities were also guests at the festivities.

The Chief of Staff thanked the soldiers for their commitment and dedication to serving the Force and Guyana.

“You are making this sacrifice in order to ensure the safety and security of Guyana. We thank you for your dedication, particularly during this festive season when being with family is so important for many Guyanese.

Remember though, that we are also family. This is why it is important to be here with you at this time,” Brigadier Bess said.

“This year has been rewarding in many ways but it has also been very challenging. Yet, together we have worked to overcome the challenges and remain strong. As we look ahead, I charge you to stay alert

Private Jasper Anderson was promoted to the new rank of Substantive Lance Corporal

and focused.”

“COVID-19 infections continue to rise across the country. You must continue to adhere to the regulations that are in place to ensure your protection from infection. Wear your masks and wear them properly. Wash and sanitise your hands regularly and practice social distancing. I wish everyone present here and their loved ones, a Happy Christmas and a blessed New Year!” the Chief of Staff said.

During his visit, Brigadier Bess promoted Private Jasper Anderson to the new rank of Substantive Lance Corporal.

The Chief of Staff dec-

orated Lance Corporal Anderson with his new badge of rank and encouraged him with these words: “You serve with dedication and are deserving of this promotion. Continue to work hard, serve with honour and be professional in all you do.”

The troops at Camp Jaguar will continue to be on service to Guyana throughout the festive season and into the New Year.

Meanwhile, troops serving at the Third Infantry Battalion at their Base at New Amsterdam kicked off their Christmas season with a splendid Soldiers’ Day. On hand to celebrate the

GDF ranks stationed at the 3rd Infantry Battalion at their base at New Amsterdam enjoying a light moment during Soldiers’ Day

festive season with the soldiers were Colonel General Staff, Colonel Julius Skeete, other officers of the GDF, and senior officers of the Guyana Police Force and the Guyana Prison Service.

Also present were special invitees from the Region Six Regional Democratic Council.

Colonel Skeete thanked the soldiers for their ser-

vice and urged them to continue to serve with a high level of professionalism.

“We value your service and as a collective, we set aside this day to thank you. The Force also wishes your families a happy and safe festive season,” he said.

He also reminded them to uphold the laws of Guyana and follow keenly the values and stan-

dards of the GDF whether in or out of uniform.

“The conduct of officers and ranks ought to be of a high professional standard at all times. Steer clear of the use of drugs and the over-indulgence of alcohol.

I charge you to also take care of the Force’s assets, kit, and equipment. On behalf of the COS, we wish you a happy holiday!”

Repairs to National Ophthalmology Hospital for year-end completion …cataract surgeries to be available

Regional Chairman David Armogan

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egion Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) C h a i r m a n David Armogan has assured that the National Ophthalmology Hospital at Port Mourant is expected to be able to conduct cataract surgeries before year end.

In an interview with DPI, the Regional Chairman said this service will be available upon completion of ongoing infrastructural works.

“The Cuban doctors have (assured) us that the

cataract programme, in terms of cataract removal and implants, will (restart) before the year-end, once the infrastructure work is completed and guaranteed by the contractor…those would be completed by this weekend,” Armogan said.

Currently, rehabilitation works are being undertaken on the hospital’s roof and critical areas such as the operating theatre. New air conditioning units are also being installed.

“The necessary (lenses and) sutures among oth-

er equipment (needed) to be used at the hospital will arrive in the country, and so we do not want a leaky roof, which could potentially destroy the equipment,” he explained.

Armogan said this initiative by the Ministry of Health would lessen the cost to persons suffering from eye conditions.

“The hospital was really providing a great service to the poor people of our Region, and quite a lot of our people will go blind if we do not get that hospital going again, because they cannot afford to pay $75,000 to go privately,” he explained.

During a visit to the facility on October 13, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony had said that the hospital would be boosted with equipment and more staff to expand its services.

Currently, several minor surgeries are being conducted until other equipment is acquired to expand the services at the facility.

The National Ophthalmology Hospital was commissioned in 2009 to offer specialised eye care, including surgeries for cataract and other conditions.

The hospital served locals as well as persons from the Caribbean and Latin

America who were seeking affordable and quality eye care surgeries.

In 2014, the hospital ceased operating after a

suspected electrical fire had destroyed an operating theatre. It reopened one year later.

According to the

Ministry, records indicate that during its first 10 months of operation, 21,074 persons were served at the facility.

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US Govt ordered to Heavy rainfall delays Tiger Creek bridge rehab reinstate protections — new deadline now December 16

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eeks after the Tiger Creek bridge collapsed in Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni), works have been moving apace, although the contractor has been hampered by torrential rains.

Public Works Ministry Regional Engineer with responsibility for Region Eight, Wendell St Pierre said the contractor has made progress since the bridge’s collapse on November 3.

In a written statement to DPI, the engineer stated the Mahdia abutment (the points where the reconstructed bridge would meet) is complete.

“The second revetment is still to be done, followed by the main beams and decking,” St Pierre said.

With a new deadline

The truck in the creek after the bridge collapsed on November 4, 2020

of December 16, 2020, for the reconstruction of the bridge, he said the public

has been properly advised on the alternative route available to them from

the Kanawaruk Road into Eagle Mountain Road, then into Mahdia.

A machine would assist motorists along a bypass road that extends over a hill, near the reconstruction works, he explained.

Motorists have said this process is frustrating as they have to wait for long periods to be taken along the bypass road that is also in a derelict condition due to the rains.

As such, St Pierre implored commuters to use the original alternative route to reach Mahdia.

The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission is responsible for effecting the reconstruction works while the Public Works Ministry provides technical assistance on the project.

IDB Invest supports Guyana with US$20M line of credit for SMEs

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DB Invest, a member of the IDB Group, has incorporated three subsidiaries of Republic Financial Holdings Limited (RFHL) in Barbados, Guyana and Suriname into its Trade Finance Facilitation Programme (TFFP) by opening lines of credit to be used for short-term international trade finance transactions with intention to offer support to local smalland medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

On Friday, IDB Invest said that the three lines consist of an uncommitted US$20 million TFFP line each to both Barbados and Guyana, as well as a US$15 million line to Suriname.

They will support the Bank’s ability to finance its customers’ import and export activities in Barbados, Guyana, and Suriname.

Given the current context of high volatility in international markets and macroeconomic pressures

from the COVID-19 health crisis, it noted, these lines will help not only to alleviate the Bank's funding tensions in the short term, but also to diversify its sources and reduce dependence on deposits. It will also help the Bank to increase its supply of foreign trade products to its SME clients, adjusting its supply to the current context of these demands.

CEO of IDB Invest, James Scriven, said: “At

IDB Invest, we are pleased to close three transactions with Republic Financial Holdings Limited through our Trade Finance Facilitation Programme in Barbados, Guyana and Suriname. With this programme, Republic Financial Holdings Limited can diversify its network of partners offering trade finance products for imports and exports, including loans and guarantees, to its clients in these countries. This is part of our strong commitment to reinforce financing and boost trade within the Caribbean region".

On the other hand, President and CEO of RFHL, Nigel Baptiste, commented: “As one of the leading financial institutions across the Caribbean region, with an international footprint in Ghana, we have an obligation to these markets to provide financial and developmental support. Our support remains grounded in the framework of sustainable development and the belief that the changes we make today can and will positively impact the generations of tomorrow.”

He added that regional SMEs can be the champions of our alliance with IDB Invest. “We believe that this alliance will break down the barriers that exist for SMEs, and facilitate new relationships with international markets while maintaining established ones. We have an opportunity to create a robust hub for trade and investment into the region, while increasing employment.”

for 'Dreamers'

I

n a rebuke to President Donald Trump’s administration, a judge on Friday ordered the US government to reopen to firsttime applicants a program that protects from deportation and grants work permits to hundreds of thousands of immigrants who live in the United States unlawfully after arriving as children.

The action by US District Judge Nicholas Garaufis in Brooklyn centered on the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program created by Trump’s Democratic predecessor Barack Obama in 2012.

The Supreme Court in June blocked Trump’s 2017 bid to end DACA. His administration, however, continued its policy of not accepting new applications for the program.

Democratic Presidentelect Joe Biden, who takes office on Jan. 20, has said he plans to revitalize DACA. Garaufis directed the Department of Homeland Security to post a public notice “displayed prominently” on its websites by Monday announcing that it is accepting new DACA applications.

The judge also ordered that the notice make clear that employment authorization under DACA would last for

two years rather than one.

The Supreme Court decided that the administration’s attempt to end DACA was “arbitrary and capricious” and violated federal law. Following the ruling, acting DHS Secretary Chad Wolf in July issued a memo that continued to block new applications to the program while he subjected it to a “full reconsideration.” The memo also limited employment authorization to one year and curtailed recipients’ ability to travel outside the United States.

Garaufis found in November that Wolf had been unlawfully appointed to his post, meaning he did not have the authority to issue the July DACA memorandum.

DHS did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Trump’s administration had argued that Obama exceeded his constitutional powers when he created DACA by executive action, bypassing Congress.

Obama created DACA after Congress failed to pass bipartisan legislation to overhaul U.S. immigration policy. DACA recipients often are called “Dreamers” based on the name of legislation considered but never passed in Congress. (Reuters)

No deal between US, TikTok as assets sale deadline nears – source

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hortform video app TikTok and the Trump administration had not come to terms over sale of the company's US operations late Friday as a deadline loomed, according to a source familiar with the matter.

The Committee on Foreign Investment had given TikTok parent ByteDance, based in China,

until midnight to come up with an acceptable deal to put TikTok's American assets into US hands.

Talks between TikTok and government negotiators will continue even after the deadline passes, and people in the US will still be able to use the popular smartphone app for sharing video snippets, the source said. (AFP)

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Govt creating over 100 jobs Former finance minister of Austria in Albouystown – Edghill

Minister Juan Edghill

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he Government will employ over 100 persons in Albouystown as it embarks on a major exercise to clear drains in the South Georgetown ward.

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill made this disclosure on Friday when he travelled to several sections of the city to check on the progress of works.

“This is a work I want

to start immediately. I have spoken to my technical people and the work will be done in these 13 alleys and 15 blocks by the community people themselves. So, the community leaders are going to be organised and they will be able to get this done early in the new week,” he told the Department of Public Information.

Edghill said he visited the community to get a first-hand look at the condition of drains there as citizens had complained that they were derelict.

The Minister said he was displeased about the conduct of the Georgetown Mayor and City Council, which is responsible for desilting works.

“People are putting politics over people’s welfare.

This is a disaster. This is a recipe for the outbreak of a disease. This is a health hazard for the people in Albouystown,” he said.

jailed for corruption

A

One of the concrete drains in Albouystown, Georgetown that are overgrown with vegetation

Urgent action is needed to remedy this situation, he added.

“We can’t sit by and allow the people and the residents of Albouystown to suffer. Dr Irfaan Ali Administration has pledged to the people of Guyana that development will come to all the peo-

ple and Albouystown is a part of the city and we will take care of the residents of Albouystown in ensuring that we get this drainage and irrigation done,” Minister Edghill said.

The works will be financed under the Ministry’s Urban Roads and Drainage programme.

Boris Johnson, EU chief seek to break trade deal deadlock

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oris Johnson and European C o m m i s s i o n President Ursula Von Der Leyen will seek to break the stalemate over a post-Brexit trade deal on Saturday.

Negotiators for the two sides called in the two leaders after saying “significant divergences” remained following a week of intensive talks.

Time is running out to get a deal through before the UK leaves EU trading rules on 31 December.

Most of the deal has been completed but key sticking points remain.

These include fishing rights, the rules governing state subsidies for business and how the agreement is

policed.

One source close to the negotiations on the UK side suggested there had been a more optimistic outlook earlier in the week but pointed to demands for EU fishing boats to have ten year access to UK waters as one issue that derailed progress - as had been reported in the Telegraph.

France’s Europe minister suggested his country could veto a deal if they are not satisfied. French President Emmanuel Macron has been keen to ensure the fishing industry won’t lose too much access to British waters.

Positive-minded readers might consider that, even if the EU-UK deal were al-

most agreed, the European Commission president and arguably, especially Boris Johnson, who has aligned himself so personally to “getting Brexit done”, would want to put their personal stamp on things.

Confirmation that they will call each other on Saturday afternoon could therefore be seen as a “good” sign. Although sources in the EU and UK warn not to expect news of the conclusive Big Breakthrough following their chat.

Cynics might nod their head too when I say that considering the uncomfortable political compromises both sides have to make to reach a deal - one more “crisis”, aka the current stop

in talks, is quite useful to demonstrate to the public back home that you’re hanging on in there, fighting for their interests.

That’s certainly the way to interpret France’s threat to use its veto if a deal is agreed, and it doesn’t like it.

Emmanuel Macron has enjoyed the role of Brexit bad cop throughout. It plays well domestically.

And “France the frenemy” is an easy headline in the UK too.

But reality is more nuanced.

Paris trumpets more brashly what is the belief in all EU capitals, and in the UK government: Yes to this deal but not at any cost. (BBC)

INTERPOL warns of organised crime threats to COVID-19 vaccines

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NTERPOL has issued a global alert to law enforcement across its 194 member countries warning them to prepare for organised crime networks targeting COVID-19 vaccines, both physically and online.

The INTERPOL Orange Notice outlines potential criminal activity in relation to the falsification, theft and illegal advertising of COVID-19 and flu vaccines, with the pandemic having already triggered unprecedented opportunistic and predatory criminal behaviour.

It also includes examples of crimes where individuals have been advertising, selling and administering fake vaccines.

As a number of COVID-19 vaccines come closer to approval and global distribution, ensuring the safety of

the supply chain and identifying illicit websites selling fake products will be essential.

The need for coordination between law enforcement and health regulatory bodies will also play a vital role to ensure the safety of individuals and wellbeing of communities are protected.

“As governments are preparing to roll out vaccines, criminal organizations are planning to infiltrate or disrupt supply chains.” Jürgen Stock, INTERPOL Secretary General “Criminal networks will also be targeting unsuspecting members of the public via fake websites and false cures, which could pose a significant risk to their health, even their lives.

“It is essential that law enforcement is as prepared

as possible for what will be an onslaught of all types of criminal activity linked to the COVID-19 vaccine, which is why INTERPOL has issued this global warning,” concluded Secretary General Stock.

As well as targeting COVID-19 vaccines, as international travel gradually resumes it is likely that testing for the virus will become of greater importance, resulting in a parallel production and distribution of unauthorized and falsified testing kits.

Online dangers

With an increasing amount of COVID-related frauds, INTERPOL is also advising members of the public to take special care when going online to search for medical equipment or

medicines.

In addition to the dangers of ordering potentially life-threatening products, an analysis by the INTERPOL’s Cybercrime Unit revealed that of 3,000 websites associated with online pharmacies suspected of selling illicit medicines and medical devices, around 1,700 contained cyber threats, especially phishing and spamming malware.

To avoid falling victim to online scams, it is important to be vigilant, be skeptical and be safe, as offers which appear too good to be true usually are.

Always check with your national health authorities or the World Health Organization for the latest health advice in relation to COVID-19. (Antigua NewsRoom)

former Austrian finance minister has been sentenced to eight years in prison for his role in a high-profile corruption scandal.

Karl-Heinz Grasser was found guilty on Friday of embezzlement, receiving bribes and falsification of evidence in a deal to sell thousands of publicly owned apartments.

The court in Vienna said Grasser was involved in kickbacks of more than €9 million (£8.1m).

He denies wrongdoing and will appeal.

Grasser became the youngest finance minister in the country’s history in 2000.

The case involved 14 defendants facing an array of charges, which included money laundering, fraud and falsifying evidence.

The court said Grasser and a middleman passed on information about a bid during a scheme to privatise 60,000 apartments, which in turn enabled a rival to put in a slightly higher winning bid.

A consortium purchased the apartments for €961 million - three years later, they were valued at double that

amount.

According to the court, the winning bidders paid one per cent of the purchase price, €9.6 million, to ex-Freedom Party of Austria General Secretary Walter Meischberger and lobbyist Peter Hochegger. Both men were also handed prison sentences.

This money was then divided into three bank accounts in Lichtenstein, the court found.

The verdict was based on hundreds of witness statements along with tapped telephone calls, AFP news agency reports.

Judge Marion Hohenecker said: “Those who do business honestly do not need any accounts in Lichtenstein.”

She added that the winning bidder’s success “was achieved through bribery and was only possible because of the intentional abuse of authority” by the former finance minister.

Grasser’s lawyer described the ruling as a “blatant misjudgement” and said an appeal would be placed with the Supreme Court.

(BBC)

T&T Police probe video of man driving off with incoherent girl

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32-year-old man who was recorded in Arima, Trinidad dragging a teenage girl into a car, claiming to be her father, is now in police custody.

Police said the man was held in Cumuto on Thursday evening after the three-minute-28-second video was shared on social media.

In it the man is heard telling people, mostly women, that the child is his daughter and he is taking her home.

“Allyuh getting me real mad, because yuh see my children, I doh f—k with my children” the man is heard saying as a woman repeatedly asked why he was seen kissing the child on the mouth.

While he argued with those around and calling the child by a particular name, a woman in a Defence Force uniform and another woman are seen helping the girl, who police said is 14.

The man claimed to be an estate constable.

Another man is heard saying, “Allyuh, no, no, no, something wrong with that young girl, She not drunk,” while one of two women wet the child’s face.

The man taking the girl then shouts, “This is my daughter! Baby, come on.

She don’t need nothing, you know why? Is either in or out, is her choice. This is my f—king child.”

“You kiss your child in her mouth?” a woman is heard asking. A security guard tells the man the others just want to make sure the girl “is good.”

While the man pulled the girl away from the two women, a third is heard warning that if anything happens to her it will be a result of their inaction.

After the woman became vociferous in her stance against the child going with the irate man, another woman is seen trying to speak to the child, who appeared incoherent.

One woman is heard saying that the child fell in a nearby fast food restaurant, and found it disturbing that the man she was with was claiming to be her father.

Two minutes and 21 seconds into the video, the child was in the man’s car and he hurled obscenities at the woman who was demanding that she not go with him.

The woman who recorded the video is heard asking why no one stopped the child from going with him.

Another man then says the child claimed the man was her father.

The incident was recorded in Arima, police said and the car was stopped in Cumuto.

Members of the Child Protection Unit, Northern Division, are continuing investigations. (T&T NewsDay)

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guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020

Regional

Venezuela urges firms to sign Peru mine workers join in protests, trade deals with Turkey, Iran cutting off some major highways to Lima

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V

e n e z u e l a ’ s Government is encouraging private firms to sign import and export deals with companies in Asia and the Middle East as part of an effort to limit the effect of United States sanctions, according to four sources with knowledge of the matter.

The plan expands on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro’s existing commercial relationships with allies such as Turkey and Iran, which have already been providing the cash-strapped Government with food and fuel in exchange for gold.

Vice President and Finance Minister Delcy Rodriguez has been developing the strategy for over a year, according to the sources, paving the way for private firms to export pineapples and mangos to Iran and import pasta from Turkey.

Rodriguez has created a new Vice Ministry of Foreign Commerce and sent allies to these new markets to promote private trade deals, according to public statements, seeking ways

Venezuela has been battling shortages of food, medicine and gasoline amid a worsening economic crisis and tough US sanctions on its Government [Manaure Quintero/Reuters]

around a broad sanctions package meant to force Maduro from office.

Because operations of private Venezuelan companies are not explicitly targeted by US sanctions, shifting trade away from State-run firms and towards private enterprise makes foreign partners more interested in Venezuela deals, said the sources, who asked not to be identified.

Venezuelan companies also benefit from trading with firms in Turkey

or Iran because Western hemisphere businesses are so scared of sanctions they at times avoid operations even when the US Treasury has explicitly authorised them, the sources said.

Though the total volume of trade remains low, it signals a new effort on the part of the governing Socialist Party to skirt sanctions the incoming Biden Administration is expected to maintain even though they show few signs of toppling Maduro.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

orkers from the Doe Run mine complex in Peru joined a growing group of farmworkers in blocking major highways throughout the Andean nation, ratcheting up pressure on newly appointed interim President Francisco Sagasti.

Hundreds of union members from the Doe Run metallurgical plant located in the Andean town of La Oroya blockaded a highway critical to the supply of food to the capital Lima, demanding the Government turn over management of the mining complex.

Several Governments have pledged, but failed, to revamp the liquidated mine after it was mothballed in 2009 amid spiralling debts that prevented its former owners from completing a modernisation programme and environmental cleanup.

“We want to be given the management of the company after the failure of the Government and its liquidation committee to sell the complex to a new oper-

Agricultural workers block the Panamericana Sur highway during a protest over a longstanding but controversial agrarian law, in Villacuri, Peru, December 3, 2020

ator,” the leader of the La Oroya workers union, Luis Castillo, told Reuters.

Meanwhile, protesting farmworkers continued to cut off transit on the main highway north and south of Lima, snarling traffic, leaving hundreds of buses and tractor-trailer trucks carrying fresh fruit stranded and one protester dead as of Thursday.

Peru’s Congress said it planned on Friday to debate

the repeal of a long-standing agrarian promotion law that farmworkers say is unjust.

President Sagasti announced that he also planned to submit to Congress a bill that would update the existing law, but not replace it altogether.

Sagasti reiterated his call for security forces to act with prudence following the death of the protester on Thursday. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Cuba talks on freedom of Caribbean welcomes new political expression break down – statement deal to replace Cotonou Agreement R

Senator Kamina Johnson Smith spoke on behalf of the Caribbean group at the 10th meeting of chief negotiators of the OACPS/EU post-Cotonou Agreement

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he Caribbean has welcomed the political deal reached between the chief negotiators for the European Union and the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), for a new partnership accord to replace the Cotonou Agreement “Once the Post-Cotonou Agreement has been initialled and subsequently signed in Samoa, let us ensure that this landmark agreement is effectively implemented in a manner that takes the OACPS-EU relationship to a higher level, that enables the Caribbean-EU partnership to realise its full potential and advances sustainable development in all our regions, and further sustains intra-OACPS cooperation,”

said Jamaica’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Kamina Johnson-Smith.

Johnson-Smith, speaking on behalf of the Caribbean group at the 10th meeting of chief negotiators of the OACPS/ EU post-Cotonou agreement on Thursday, where the political deal was announced, said that it had been a “long journey of over two years, during which we have engaged in the task of negotiating a successor agreement to the Cotonou Partnership Agreement.

The Cotonou Agreement is a treaty between the European Union and the ACP that was signed in June 2000 in Cotonou,

Benin’s largest city. It entered into force in 2003 and was subsequently revised in 2005 and 2010.

It is regarded as the most comprehensive partnership agreement between developing countries and the EU and in 2010, ACPEU cooperation has been adapted to new challenges such as climate change, food security, regional integration, state fragility and aid effectiveness.

The fundamental principles of the Cotonou Agreement include equality of partners, global participation, dialogue and regionalisation. The agreement is re-examined every five years. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

are talks between Cuba’s communist Government and an artists’ collective over freedom of expression have broken down, the Culture Ministry said Friday in a statement.

The Ministry said it would not meet the collective’s delegates, accusing them of receiving “funding, logistical and propaganda support from the US Government and its officials”.

Officials initially agreed to a dialogue over the artists’ demands after a rare protest by around 300 artists and intellectuals outside its headquarters in Havana last weekend.

Culture Ministry officials agreed to meet a delegation of around 30 of the demonstrators, among

A woman walks by a mural in Havana, on December 2, 2020

whose demands were greater freedom of expression and an end to repression and harassment of independent artists.

The unprecedented discussions were expected to get underway this week between Culture Minister Alpidio Alonso and artists’ representatives.

“No gifts”: Mexicans asked to rein in Christmas plans to control pandemic

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exicans should cancel year-end travel plans and even avoid exchanging Christmas presents, the President said on Friday, unveiling measures particularly aimed at one of the world’s largest capital cities amid surging coronavirus cases.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador also announced increasing capacity for more hospital beds as well as extra medical equipment and staff to help in the fight to curb the

pandemic.

“If we don’t have anything truly important to do, let’s not go out on the street,” he told reporters at his daily morning press conference, urging people to restrict their movement.

“This pandemic, this nightmare will pass,” he said, saying there would be no mandatory lockdowns but encouraging people to act responsibly.

The leftist President, outlining a 10-point plan, said the suggested steps to limit the spread of the

virus were especially important for residents of the metropolitan area of Mexico City, the densely-packed capital with a population of over 20 million.

The city’s Mayor, Claudia Sheinbaum, on Friday asked private businesses in the capital to stop their employees working from offices and resume work-from-home schemes.

Lopez Obrador warned that traditional festive gatherings known as posadas, where friends and

family typically gather in a single house, should not take place this year.

He also advised there should be no New Year’s Eve parties and even suggested Mexicans do not give Christmas presents this year, apparently in a bid to limit rushes on shopping centres and traffic.

Case numbers have been rising noticeably over the past two weeks across the country, with some of the highest figures so far for confirmed infections.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

However, the communist authorities hardened their tone, denouncing a US conspiracy.

The Ministry said in its statement that it took exception to an “insolent letter” received on Thursday, which sought to “impose unilaterally who should participate in dialogue, with whom it agrees to dialogue, and on what”.

The group had demanded President Miguel DiazCanel participate in the talks.

Diaz-Canel, the first Cuban leader of the post-Castro era — too young to have participated in the 1959 revolution led by Fidel Castro and his brother Raul — accused the collective of being behind “an unconventional war strategy to try to overthrow the revolution”.

The demonstration outside the Culture Ministry building followed the expulsion by Police the previous Thursday of members of a previously little known artists’ collective from their premises in the historic centre of Havana. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020

19

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS Oil rises, hovers below US$50/barrel as US mulls stimulus, OPEC+ compromises

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rent crude oil futures rose to just under US$50 a barrel on Friday as expectations of a US economic stimulus package and the possibility of a vaccine for the coronavirus overrode rising supply and increased COVID-19 deaths.

A bipartisan US$908 billion coronavirus aid plan gained momentum in the US Congress.

Brent was up 42 cents at US$49.13 a barrel by 11:19 am EST (1619 GMT) after hitting its highest since early March at US$49.92.

West Texas Intermediate rose 46 cents to US$46.10 a barrel, after touching a high of US$46.68 a barrel. Both benchmarks are set for a fifth straight week of gains.

“We’re higher, despite super bearish events - it’s all about stimulus,” said Bob Yawger, director of energy futures at Mizuho in New York. “You can’t go home short this weekend because they could sign a deal this weekend.”

OPEC+, comprising of the OrganiSation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies, agreed on a compromise to increase output slightly from January but continue the bulk of existing supply curbs to cope with coronavirus-hit demand.

OPEC and Russia on Thursday agreed to ease deep oil output cuts from January by 500,000 barrels per day with further as yet undefined increases on a monthly basis, failing to reach a compromise on a broader policy for the rest of 2021.

OPEC+ had been expected to continue existing cuts until at least March, after backing down from plans to raise output by 2 million bpd.

The increase means the group will reduce production by 7.2 million bpd, or 7 per cent of global demand from January, compared with current cuts of 7.7 million bpd.

While some analysts saw an undersupplied oil market even under the new higher supply quotas, others expected the barrels would tip the market into oversupply. Wood Mackenzie analysts, for example, expect that if the increases continue through March there might be 1.6 million unwanted bpd in the first quarter.

The premium of Brent crude futures for nearby delivery to future months is at its highest since February, a structure called backwardation, which usually points to supplies tightening up and suggests receding fears of a current glut.

US production, meanwhile, has recovered from the two-anda-half-year lows touched in May mainly because shale producers have brought wells back online in response to rising prices.

The US oil rig count, an indicator of future production, rose 10 to 241 last week, the highest since May. (Excerpt from Reuters)

US House passes federal cannabis decriminalisation bill

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he US House of Representatives has passed a bill to decriminalise cannabis at the federal level for the first time.

It calls for removing cannabis from the list of federally controlled substances and erasing certain federal convictions.

It also supports reinvestment in communities adversely impacted by the decades-long "war on drugs".

The bill is very unlikely to be taken up in the Republican-controlled Senate.

The Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement (More) Act was passed in the lower chamber 228 to 164 on Friday afternoon, with just five Republicans - and one independent - supporting the measure.

Many Republican lawmakers said the bill's implications are potentially harmful to American youth and called it a "waste of time", complaining that they should

have focused on COVID relief instead.

Cannabis is still prohibited by the federal Controlled Substances Act and classed as a Schedule I narcotic - defined as having no medical value and a high potential for abuse - but one in three Americans currently live in states where cannabis is legal for adult use.

In addition, 38 states have passed measures that allow its use for medicinal purposes.

Support for federal cannabis legalisation is now at an all-time high, with a Gallup poll last month showing more than two-thirds of American adults support it.

Several lawmakers took to the House floor ahead of the vote, arguing the bill had less to do with legalising marijuana and more to do with how the enforcement of cannabis prohibition has hurt communities of colour, leaving behind "a legacy of racial and ethnic injustices". (Excerpt from BBC News)

UN warns 2021 shaping up to be a humanitarian catastrophe

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ext year is shaping up to be a humanitarian catastrophe and rich countries must not trample poor countries in a “stampede for vaccines” to combat the coronavirus pandemic, top UN officials told the 193-member UN General Assembly on Friday.

World Food Programme (WFP) chief David Beasley and World Health Organisation (WHO) Head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus spoke during a special meeting on COVID-19, which emerged in China late last year and has so far infected 65 million globally.

The pandemic, measures taken by countries to try to stop its spread and the economic impact have fuelled

Diplomats arrive through the delegates entrance at the 75th annual UN General Assembly at UN headquarters, which is being held mostly virtually due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak in New York, US, September 22, 2020

a 40 per cent increase in the number of people needing humanitarian help, the United Nations said earlier this week. It has appealed

for US$35 billion in aid funding.

“2021 is literally going to be catastrophic based on what we’re seeing at this

stage of the game,” said Beasley, adding that for a dozen countries, famine is “knocking on the door.”

He said 2021 was likely to be “the worst humanitarian crisis year since the beginning of the United Nations” 75 years ago and “we’re not going to be able to fund everything ... so we have to prioritise, as I say, the icebergs in front of the Titanic.”

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and his top officials have also called for COVID-19 vaccines to be made available to all and for rich countries to help developing countries combat and recover from the pandemic.

Tedros appealed for an immediate injection of $4.3 billion into a world vaccine-sharing programme.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

UK, EU call in leaders China becomes 2nd nation to plant to save trade talks flag on the Moon

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EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier arrives for talks in London, Britain, December 4, 2020

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ritish and EU negotiators paused trade talks on Friday to call in their leaders to try to narrow gaps and get an agreement over the line, less than four weeks before Britain completes its Brexit journey out of the bloc.

After failing to agree the basis for a deal, Britain’s David Frost and the EU’s Michel Barnier said they would brief leaders to seek new impetus for the talks, which stumbled on Thursday when London accused Brussels of making new demands.

Today, Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will speak to try to break the impasse, which sources said was centred on French demands over fishing rights in British waters.

It is the latest twist in what has been months of negotiations which have barely moved on the three thorniest issues - fisheries, ensuring fair competition guarantees and ways to solve future disputes.

But so far neither side has walked away from the talks, suggesting that both still hold out some hope of securing a deal governing almost $1 trillion of annual trade to avoid a disorderly end to more than 40 years of British membership of the European club.

Sterling sank by as much as half a cent against the US dollar, weakening to $1.3425 from $1.3475 before the negotiators’ statement. The pound was also lower against the euro.

Earlier on Friday, there were contradictory reports of how far the talks had progressed, with some EU officials saying they were on the brink of agreement while British officials said the negotiations had reached a “very difficult” point. (Excerpt from Reuters)

hina has planted its flag on the Moon, more than 50 years after the US first planted the Stars and Stripes there.

The pictures from China's National Space Administration show the five-starred Red Flag holding still on the windless lunar surface.

They were taken by a camera on the Chang'e-5 space probe before it left the Moon with rock samples on Thursday.

Two previous Chinese lunar missions had flags on the crafts' coatings - so neither could be affixed to the moon.

The US planted the first flag on the Moon during the manned Apollo 11 mission in 1969. Five further US flags were planted on the lunar surface during subsequent missions up until 1972.

In 2012 Nasa cited satellite images as showing

that five of the flags were still standing, but experts quoted in media reports say they are likely to have been bleached white by the sun's glare.

The first flag was said by astronaut Buzz Aldrin to have been placed too close to the Apollo lunar module and was, he said, probably blown away when the module blasted off.

The fabric flag was unfurled by the Chang'e-5 lander vehicle just before its ascender vehicle took off using the lander as a launchpad.

It has taken soil and rock samples to China's lunar orbiter 15km (nine miles) above the lunar surface - which will then be enclosed in a module that will be aimed at China's Inner Mongolia region.

The Chang'e-5 mission is China's third successful landing on the Moon in seven years. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Germany to wipe Nazi traces from phonetic alphabet

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ermany is to revamp its phonetic alphabet to remove words added by the Nazis.

Before the Nazi dictatorship, some Jewish names were used in the phonetic alphabet - such as "D for David", "N for Nathan" and "Z for Zacharias".

But the Nazis replaced these with Dora, North Pole and Zeppelin, and their use has since continued with most Germans unaware of their anti-Semitic origin.

Experts are working on new terms, to be put to the public and adopted in 2022.

The initiative sprang from Michael Blume, in charge of fighting anti-Semitism in the state of BadenWürttemberg, backed by the Central Council of Jews in Germany.

The job of devising new terms for the problematic letters is now in the hands of the German Institute for Standardization (DIN).

The commonly-used equivalent in the UK is the Nato phonetic alphabet, with terms such as "F for Foxtrot, T for Tango". But many English speakers also use terms like "D for Dennis, S

for Sugar" on the phone.

In order to preserve the memory of the anti-Semitic list, it will be presented as an annexe to the new list to be put to a public consultation next year. After that discussion, the new German list is to be adopted in late 2022.

DIN spokesman Julian Pinnig said choosing new personal names would be more problematic than German town or city names, because the choice of personal names might not reflect the nation's ethnic diversity today. (Excerpt from BBC News)

20

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020

guyanatimesgy.com

ARCHIE

ARIES (March 21April 19)

Spend less time explaining what you will do and more time putting your plans in motion.

Don’t depend on others to do things for you. A physical activity will help ease stress.

An unexpected change TAURUS will end up being to your (April 20benefit. Go with the flow, May 20) and you’ll come out on top. Don’t share personal information or lead someone on.

DILBERT

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

CANCER (June 21July 22)

PEANUTS

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

SUDOKU

A partnership will not be as it appears. Listen to what’s being said. A promise someone makes isn’t likely to be honored.

Handle relationships with care. Be honest.

Invest time and money in yourself or in something you want to pursue. Be resourceful and save your money for an important project. A financial opportunity looks promising.

Do something that requires energy, intelligence and skill. Follow your heart and do your own thing. A change someone makes will cause emotional tension.

Don’t lose sight of your goals.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Pay attention to how you look, feel and do things.

Refuse to let anyone twist your words or pressure you into something undesirable.

When faced with opposition, proceed with caution.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Gather information and prepare to take action. If you don’t like what’s happening in your backyard, clean up the mess and move forward. Uncertainty will make you nervous, but don’t act in haste.

SCORPIO

Look over your options and gather information. Be secretive about your intentions, and put everything in place before you share your plans.

An unexpected plan of attack will pay off.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

Forming a partnership, sharing expenses or getting your documents in order is encouraged. An energetic approach will pay off. Refuse to let an emotional situation slow you down or lead you astray.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

Improve your life by making your surroundings comfortable and convenient.

Refuse to let an emotional matter escalate when all it takes is understanding and kindness to solve a problem.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

Put an end to uncertainty by voicing your opinion.

A change or move someone makes may be upsetting initially, but the result will benefit you. It’s time to start something new.

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

Take hold of a problem before someone else does. It’s necessary to take charge if you want to control your future. Make personal changes that will improve your life.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020

21

CWI win Christopher MartinJenkins Spirit of Cricket Award T

he MCC, in conjunction with the BBC, is delighted to announce that Cricket West Indies (CWI) have been awarded the Christopher MartinJenkins Spirit of Cricket Award for 2020.

Cricket West Indies were selected for their courage in sending both their Men’s and Women’s teams to tour England in 2020, a year when the COVID-19 pandemic has caused such major disruption not only to the international cricketing calendar, but to everyday life.

While the award singles out Cricket West Indies for their efforts, both the MCC and the BBC would like to place on record their admiration for the Pakistan Cricket Board, Cricket Ireland, and Cricket Australia, for overcoming logistical challenges to send their Men’s teams to play England.

In addition, none of these tours would have been possible without the determination of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and everyone involved in the Herculean effort to host international cricket in this extraordinary year.

Jason Holder’s West

Indies Men’s team faced England in a three-match Test series which began in early July. The team arrived in the United Kingdom in early June, with lockdown restrictions still in place across the United Kingdom and infection rates remaining prevalent.

The West Indies Women’s team, led by Stafanie Taylor, stepped in at late notice to play England in a five-match T20 international series in September, following the cancellation of the hosts’ previously scheduled matches.

The CMJ Spirit of Cricket Award was creat-

ed in 2013 by MCC and the BBC in memory of former MCC President and BBC Test Match Special commentator Christopher MartinJenkins (“CMJ”), who was passionate about promoting the spirit of the game.

The award has previously been won by: Wayne Madsen of Derbyshire; Sussex’s Luke Wright; Brendon McCullum of New Zealand; Tom Fell of Worcestershire; England’s Anya Shrubsole; and Dan Bowser and Chris Edwards of the England Learning Disability Team.

Last year’s winners were the New Zealand Men’s

team, who were recognised for their exemplary display of sporting conduct in the wake of the 2019 ICC Men’s World Cup Final at Lord’s.

MCC President Kumar Sangakkara has said: “In a year when cricket has brought us much solace, it is entirely fitting that Cricket West Indies and their Men’s and Women’s teams should be recognised for the courage of their decision to tour England, an act which truly embodies the Spirit of Cricket. The whole cricketing world appreciates the lengths that both they and the ECB went to so that cricket could be played at the height of the pandemic, and their contribution should be remembered warmly.

“The Pakistan Cricket Board, Cricket Ireland and Cricket Australia should also be commended for their actions, with each body making an important contribution to ensure England could host a full international summer, which was enjoyed by supporters around the globe”.

Chief Executive of Cricket West Indies, Johnny Grave, has said: “We are delighted that our Men’s and

Women’s teams have won the prestigious Christopher Martin-Jenkins Spirit of Cricket Award. On behalf of everyone at CWI, I’d like to thank MCC and the BBC for recognising the efforts that our teams made, in close collaboration with ECB, to ensure that international cricket returned safely to the global stage.

It was a bold but necessary decision made by the CWI Board, supported by those who travelled to the UK, in keeping with our Cricket First philosophy.

“I must also thank the ECB, along with Hampshire, Lancashire and Derbyshire,

who hosted our teams this summer and ensured that they were kept safe during both tours.”

The Spirit of Cricket has never been more important

BBC Test Match Special Producer Adam Mountford added: “In this most difficult of years, the Spirit of Cricket has never been more important. The West Indies Men’s and Women’s teams made huge sacrifices and took personal risks to keep international cricket going, and provide a crucial distraction for fans across the world.”

Haas driver Romain Grosjean says “doesn’t feel like a hero” – after escape from fiery accident in Bahrain Grand Prix

H

aas driver Romain Grosjean has said he “doesn’t feel like a hero” after his amazing escape from a fiery accident at the Bahrain Grand Prix.

The 34-year-old Frenchman has said: “I know the footage was unbelievable.”

Grosjean has said that if he had seen the crash happen to someone else, “I would have been sure that the driver was dead”, but he added: “I kind of felt I was doing my job as a driver; but, as a dad, (I wanted) to make sure my kids would have their father in the best possible condition.”

Grosjean, who has suffered burns to his hands and bruising to his left foot, has said he hopes Formula 1 could learn from the accident in order to make the sport safer in the future. He said that is what had happened with the introduction of the halo head-protection device following the death of Jules Bianchi from injuries sus-

tained in a crash in the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix.

“If we can learn anything from that incident in terms of the safety, but also in the way I behaved in the car: the survival instant, I never panicked, I was never stressed, everything I did was mathematical,” Grosjean said.

“Even after removing the glove because I knew my hands were burned, every step was just rational.

“I don’t know if you are born with that instinct, or it is something that you can improve through your life; but, obviously, that saved

me. Let’s see how much we can learn from that.

“Being a racing driver is a great thing. People say what you do is extraordinary, and I say, ‘No, doctors that save lives are extraordinary; firemen are extraordinary.’

“If I can, as Jules did for me, save life in the future by [my] experience, I will have a very strong legacy in motorsport, and probably my biggest pride.”

Grosjean said the toughest aspect of the crash for him was the suffering he had put those closest to him through.

“[My wife] Marion, it has been very hard for her,” he said. “She flew to Bahrain, and I think it was key for her to hug me, and since then it is getting better.

“What is the hardest for me is not what I went through, but what I put people through - my family, my parents, my wife and kids, my friends.

For two minutes, 43 seconds, they thought their friend, their father and husband, was dead, and that is what makes me cry: that I made people suffer to that extent.”

Four drivers went to see Grosjean in hospital in Bahrain: his team-mate Kevin Magnussen, Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel, Renault’s Esteban Ocon, and Red Bull’s Alex Albon, and others have messaged their support.

Grosjean said: “I felt my mission was to reassure them so they were ready to go again this weekend.

I wanted to reassure them so they were ready to race.

I said to all the drivers and their families, ‘If you want to call me, just do it, and I will talk you through it and we can joke about my Mickey Mouse hands’.”

Will he be back this season?

Grosjean has said he still has a target to return for the season-closing race in Abu Dhabi on 13-15 December, but he does not yet know whether it is possible.

“The body is recovering as (quickly) as it can,” Grosjean has said. “Burns are not an exact science. I went through some tough times when they were cutting the blisters and start peeling off the skin; you see things you don’t really want to see.

I am hopeful every day it recovers better than the previous day. When will I have a final answer? I don’t know yet.

“If it doesn’t happen, it’s okay, I will have other opportunities to cross the finish line in the future.

The doctors say it is dif-

ficult to know. The strength and mobility gets better every day. There is still a lot of swelling; this needs to start reducing, but a [skin] graft hasn’t been ruled out yet. I am joking, I am happy, but the pain (in) the last few days has been high.

“I won’t take the risk of losing mobility of my left index finger and thumb for the rest of my life just to go to Abu Dhabi. The story would be beautiful, but if I don’t, I will call every F1 team and see if they will give me a private test in January and have 10-15 laps in the car just for me.

“The first video call I did with my dad and wife and kids, I said I will race in Abu Dhabi, and you can imagine their reactions; they weren’t very impressed with me.

I don’t blame them, and I will always understand they won’t accept, but I said, ‘It is very selfish, but it is what I need and I want to do’.”

(Modified from a BBC Sport article)

22

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020

Returning football to Kwakwani…

Residents eagerly volunteer to serve on ad hoc football committee

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here has been overwhelming response to a call from Guyana Football Federation President Wayne Forde for residents to volunteer to serve on an ad hoc committee that would be responsible for resuscitating football in the mining community of Kwakwani, in Region 10.

Members were selected on the spot as soon as the call was made last Sunday, when the GFF hierarchy made a historic visit to that community at the request

T

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GFF President Wayne Forde (seated 3rd right) takes time out for a photo opportunity following the meeting

GFF President Wayne Forde (seated 4th left) with members of the Kwakwani ad hoc football committee

of

residents raised were: the need for an organisational structure to facilitate proper planning, leading to holistic development of the game; the need for lights to be installed at the community ground, as residents work mostly 12-hour shifts; the need for the ground to be fenced; coaching assistance for Jimmy McLean, who has been the torch-bearer holding the youths together and keeping them focused; the need for leaders of the community to step up for the sake of the youths; equipment assistance; and for the game to be placed back in the schools’ curriculum.

Responding to those concerns, President Forde committed the GFF to working closely with the community to ensure that the game is “played like never before”. He noted that for the proposed goals to be achieved, maximum support would be needed from community members.

Forde’s proposals included: the formation of

longstanding

Football

Golf Association continues ‘gift of giving’ tradition

he Guyana Golf Association (GGA) and Nexgen Golf Academy (NGA) will this Sunday host their annual event to raise funds for the Enmore Orphanage.

This time, it is a Curry-Q which starts from 11am. This novel idea was proposed by Ramesh Dookhoo of Banks DIH and Christopher Ram of Ram & McRae accounting firm, and it represents a break from the traditional meals offered to fundraisers.

The Curry-Q will have four types of curry: mutton,

CLASSIFIED ADS

and Panko Steel, have already thrown their support behind this activity, which combines the response to a worthy cause with a day of fun for families in a socially distanced environment.

Tickets for the event are available at the Nexgen Golf Academy, Scouts Association of Guyana ground on Woolford Avenue, Georgetown; or at the offices of the Assuria General Insurance Company located at the Giftland Mall, Church Street Georgetown, Diamond or Vreed-en-Hoop; or by calling 645-0944 to make reservation.

Coach Jimmy McLean, who has been making the rounds in the community to keep the game alive by working with the youths.

In a specially arranged meeting between the GFF hierarchy and members of the community, held at the Workers Club under the theme “bringing football back to life,” the volunteers selected to serve on the Kwakwani Ad Hoc Football Committee were: Stephon Profitt, Dion Ross, Dean Gordon, Harlan Bethune, Winslow McCurdy, Hubert Williams, Dereck Daniels, Anne Gordon, Royston Hetemyer, Carl Pitt and Jimmy McLean.

There was also an interactive session with residents, who freely aired their concerns on how the game can be revived, and reminisced on the glory days of football at Kwakwani.

They noted that the community is blessed with talented players, not only in football, but in other sporting disciplines.

Among the concerns

an ad hoc committee that would be active for one year; training of coaches and referees; organising competitions in conjunction with the ad hoc committee; and commencement of player registration.

While thanking the community for rising to the occasion and giving of its time, Forde promised that the GFF would officially communicate with committee members, and guide them accordingly in this new endeavour.

The committee is scheduled to meet this week to elect a chairperson and secretary.

Among the members of the GFF hierarchy who attended this meeting were Upper Demerara Football Association President Terrence Mitchell, under whose Association Kwakwani falls; GFF Youth Development Officer Brian Joseph, GFF Director of Coaching Wilson Toledo, and GFF Referees Technical Instructor/ Assessor, Abdullah Hamid.

Phillips and Seifert score hundreds for New Zealand ‘A’ – as Windies’ bowlers toil

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Property chicken, duck and vegetable, prepared by some of the best cooks and served hot from the pot with rice, dhal puri, dhal, salad, a Banks beverage, and lots of optional pepper sauce!

Nexfen Golf Academy Coaches Avinash Persaud and Dr Joaan Deo will be on hand to give supporters of the Curry-Q a chance to play or learn the game at the Academy for half an hour, with a chance to win prizes at no additional cost!

Enmore Orphanage Director Kenneth Finlayson has said, "This is a time of year that our kids look forward to something special, and we are thankful for the constant support from Mr Hussain and the golfing community."

Several entities, such as the Maraiko Bay Resorts, Hits & Jams 98.1 Real Radio, the Guyana Critic, Toolsie Persaud Limited, Assuria General Insurance Company, New Trend Auto, AR Printery, Banks DIH, Crown Mining, the Shafura Hussain Foundation,

GGA President Aleem Hussain has said this is the continuation of support for the Enmore Orphanage, home over the years to more than 100 youths ranging in ages from 3 to 20 years old.

"We have been blessed with a fantastic year of growth for the sport of Golf, with more than 450 new persons taking part in learning and playing in just four months. The Guyana Golf Association, with the support of Mr Nicholas Fraser of the Ministry of Education, Allied Arts Division, will launch a pilot programme to introduce Golf into secondary schools, and the response from PE teachers has been absolutely mind-blowing!”

The fully lighted Academy and Driving Range is COVIDguidelines-compliant, provides a socially distanced environment, and is open daily from 9am to 8pm. Prices to learn the game start from as low as $500/hour, and include unlimited balls and equipment.

for

Sale

South Road 3 Story Commercial Building With Income $1.2 million per Month Price $1.5 Million U.S Call Pete’s Real Estate: 623-7805, 223-6218, 231-7432, 227-2487, 226-5546, 226-9951 Grove H/Scheme First Bridge 4 Bedroom Concrete House $24 million Call Pete’s Real Estate: 623-7805, 223-6218, 227-2487, 231-7432, 226-5546, 226-9951

W

est Indies ‘A Team’ bowlers were made to toil as New Zealand ‘A’ batsmen made use of good batting conditions on the second day of their four-day first-class match.

Openers Glen Phillips and Tim Seifert each scored centuries as the home team batted all day to reach 3213 at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui. This was in reply to 322 made by West Indies 'A' on the opening day.

Phillips and Seifert add-

ed 226 at a run-a-minute in 60 overs, before the attacking Phillips was well caught and bowled by Hayden Walsh Jr for 136. He faced 184 balls and struck 15 fours and five sixes.

Seifert and Mark Chapman then put on 80 before Seifert was adjudged leg-before to left-arm seamer Raymon Reifer for 111.

Chapman’s was the last wicket of the day, caught by Romario Shepherd off the slow bowling of Nicholas

Pooran. It was the first time Pooran had bowled in his professional career, and he got the wicket with his second ball.

On the first day, West Indies 'A' team’s score was built around a sensational 133 made by Shepherd, batting at Number 9. The powerfully-built right-hander came to the crease with the score at 113-7, and added 199 for the eighth wicket with Raymon Reifer, who made 65.

Regent St. Commercial Building 5 Story with Rent Income Price $5.2 million U.S Call Pete’s Real Estate: 623-7805, 223-6218, 231-7423, 227-2487, 226-5546, 226-9951

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

23

Kane Williamson's 251 puts New Zealand in a dominant position I

f you control your game, you control the game. That is Kane Williamson in a nutshell.

Every defining trait of his batting - the obsession with playing late, the aversion to hitting in the air, the freakish ability to never ever follow a swinging ball - is an effort to put his team in the best possible position to win a Test match; and he did just that, while also scoring a career-best 251.

West Indies couldn't hold a consistent line and length at the start of play on day one, but since the first break in play at Hamilton, they have settled into a better rhythm.

Those good habits filtered into their openers as well, with Kraigg Brathwaite and John Campbell batting out 26 testing overs to stumps.

They showed great determination and skill. They had to, after watching an opposition batsman dominate for almost 150 overs.

Williamson was very precise with his decision-making. If a ball was full and wide but he could reach the pitch of it, he went for the drive. That was how he went past 200.

If it was short and wide, he stood tall and smashed 'em square on the off-side. That is how he went past 100.

If it wasn't any of those things, he called on his unyielding technique to protect h i m from being d i s missed.

Kemar Roach was able to conjure seve r al dangerous d e liveries

Zealand to 519 for 7.

West Indies had been dreaming of a very different day. It had begun with Shannon Gabriel securing Ross Taylor's wicket in the second over of the morning, and Roach having Henry Nicholls flashing outside his off stump.

Those two wickets in the

first hour of play threatened the notion that West Indies would be able to limit the damage they let happen on the first day.

Instead, they ended up like the villains in a Scooby Doo cartoon. "I would've gotten away with it, if not for that meddling Kane." (ESPNcricinfo)

SCOREBOARD

Kemar Roach congratulating Kane Williamson on his 251

a great one, you just know better.

These really aren't easy conditions to bat in. The amount of grass on the pitch preserves that red Kookaburra so that, even at 80 overs, it keeps swinging and seaming. And yet Williamson, all through the second session, was going at monster pace. He bolted from 136 off 294 at the end of the 103rd over, to 251 off 412 when he was finally dismissed. That's 115 runs off 118 balls, and in light of such mastery, even fate couldn't help but fall for him.

On 221 after Williamson had dismissed Roach to the long-on and midwicket boundaries with devastating authority, he was caught behind to an outswinger. But even as he was leaving the field, after more than 550 minutes at the crease, the cricket gods decided they want-

ed more. They wanted to see more shots like that audacious flick down the ground. A full ball outside the off-stump, searching for his outside edge, had no business being treated that way. But it was, and it was thanks to Williamson's wristwork, his balance, and the way he stood tall and waited for it to get right under his eyes.

It was all quite mesmerising. So, naturally, the

gods made the one ball that was good enough to take Williamson's edge a noball. They couldn't protect him from himself though.

As he went for back-toback sixes in order to enable a declaration, he was caught at deep midwicket.

Kyle Jamieson, who may be prompting people to start calling him an allrounder, also chipped in with his maiden Test half-century to lift New

NEW ZEALAND 1ST INNINGS TWM Latham b Roach 86 WA Young lbw b Gabriel 5 KS Williamson (c) c Chase b Joseph 251 LRPL Taylor c Brooks b Gabriel 38 HM Nicholls c Holder b Roach 7 TA Blundell † lbw b Gabriel 14 DJ Mitchell c Holder b Roach 9 KA Jamieson not out 51 TG Southee not out 11 Extras (b 11, lb 23, nb 12, w 1) 47 TOTAL (145 Ov, RR: 3.57, 658 Mts) 519/7d Did not bat: N Wagner, TA Boult Fall of wickets: 1-14 (Will Young, 3.6 ov), 2-168 (Tom Latham, 55.2 ov), 3-251 (Ross Taylor, 79.3 ov), 4-281 (Henry

Nicholls, 89.3 ov), 5-353 (Tom Blundell, 111.4 ov), 6-409 (Daryl Mitchell, 125.6 ov), 7-503 (Kane Williamson, 141.5 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W KAJ Roach 30-7-114-3 ST Gabriel 25-6-89-3 JO Holder 31-12-60-0 AS Joseph 31-8-99-1 RL Chase 25-0-10-0 KC Brathwaite 3-0-14-0 WEST INDIES 1ST INNINGS KC Brathwaite not out 20 JD Campbell not out 22 Extras (b 4, lb 1, nb 1, w 1) 7 TOTAL (26 Ov, RR: 1.88) 49/0 Yet to bat: DM Bravo, SSJ Brooks, RL Chase, J Blackwood, SO Dowrich †, JO Holder (c), AS Joseph, KAJ Roach, ST Gabriel BOWLING O-M-R-W TG Southee 9-3-20-0 TA Boult 5-1-6-0 KA Jamieson 6-2-7-0 N Wagner 6-1-11-0

Cycling returns to Linden tomorrow

as h e

routinely went wide of the crease in search of the outside edge.

With his remarkable ability to straighten the ball, no matter how steep the angle is, into the righthander, he was a constant threat.

Williamson faced several jaffas like those, and although he was beaten more than once, he never looked like nicking off. It isn't the first time the New Zealand captain has exhibited such slipperiness. For some reason, he seems immune to the very human instinct to follow the ball, especially when it threatens to move late.

If you're even a half-decent batsman, you want to feel bat on ball. If you're

T

K a n e Williamson flicks one on the leg side

he second series of the Guyana Cycling Federation’s (GCF’s) Speed Sunday time trials will pedal off in Linden tomorrow (Sunday December 6) from 9:00h.

The event, which will start before the KD&J Supermarket in Amelia's Ward, is organised by the Linden Bauxite Flyers Cycling Club.

Veterans, seniors, females, juniors and juveniles are being catered to.

This time trial run commences before the KD&J Supermarket and heads onto the highway. There are, how-

ever, two turn back points.

Seniors and Veterans will turn back at Moblissa Hill for a travelled distance of 13.5 miles; and Juniors, Juveniles and female cyclists will turn back at Bamia Hill for a travelled distance of 8.5 miles.

This race is made possible through the kind compliments of KD&J Supermarket, Bolo's Variety & Furniture Store, Ele's Trading & Hardware, Benard's Variety Store, Well Point Service Station, Country Grill, Semple & Sons Hardware & Variety Store, O&O Construction Service, and Sandgate Hardware.

Meanwhile, cyclists who

were to participate in the Berbice time trials will have to wait a bit longer, as the date for that activity has been shifted to December 13 because of unforeseen circumstances.

The route for the Berbice race remains the same. The time trial will start at 09:00h in front of Benjamin’s Sport and Fitness Centre at Fyrish, proceed along the Number 19 road, and end at GUYOIL gas station at Palmyra.

Persons interested in participating in the Berbice leg are invited to contact Randolph Roberts on 6288211.

The first leg was held

from Sparendaam to the Kitty Roundabout and back to the COVID-19 Hospital at Liliendaal. The experienced Marlon ‘Fishy’ Williams (11:18.39s) was the fastest to complete the course, followed

by Jamaul John (11:26.04s) and Briton John (11:38.70s).

Thirty-three riders participated in that event.

The Guyana Cycling Federation was granted permission by the relevant authorities to host these races. During the opening leg, all cyclists were required to undergo a temperature test and wear a face mask, made available. Social distancing was also observed.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Kane Williamson’s 251 puts New Zealand in a dominant position Pg 23

Cycling returns to Linden tomorrow See story on page 23

Golf Association continues ‘gift of giving’ tradition Pg 22

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