Guyana Times - Sunday January 30, 2022

SEE PAGES 17-22

Nationwide coverage coverage from from the the best best news news team team in in Guyana Guyana Nationwide Issue No. 4905 guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON BEACON OF OF TRUTH TRUTH THE

SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022

Budget 2022 remains a people’s budget – President Ali …says lays groundwork for country’s transformation

PRICE

$140 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE: Eccles-to-Mandela Road

4-lane highway to be completed

by February P31 month end Housing Minister

Page 3

Private Sector praises Budget 2022 for procompetitiveness measures

Displacement of Guyanese by foreign workers a major concern P13 – GAWU Guyana, Suriname sign pact for P14 Private Sector Business Council

Page 7

…as businesses urged to pass down benefits to consumers

State to confiscate Textbooks to be provided for drug-smugglers' every primary assets – AG …following court victory over confiscated Mercedes Benz school child –

5 more COVID-19 deaths, 20 in ICU

Story on page 9

Manickchand

Page 13

P12

3 arrested after gun find at Mahdia P8 Dartmouth protest

7 Essequibo Coast men charged for throwing P2 missiles at cops

From school dropout to graduating with bachelor’s degree in Public Management Page 29

…Chandroutie Barker tells of her rough journey to success

All analog x-ray machines being replaced with P30 digital version – Health Minister

2 NEWS

SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Dartmouth protest

7 Essequibo Coast men charged for throwing missiles at cops S even West Bury, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) men have been jointly charged in relation to activities during the protest in Dartmouth

which began on January 19.

The men were arrested after they threw missiles at Police following protests due to the dissatisfaction of family members and residents of Dartmouth vil-

lage regarding the charge laid against the Police rank who shot Orin Boston.

R e l a t i v e s and residents of Dartmouth vil-

The men charged were among the protesters blocking the Essequibo Coast public road during a protest at Dartmouth village on January 19, 2022

lage, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), on January 19 blocked a section of the Essequibo Coast main road by burning tyres and other debris in protest of the manslaughter charge laid against a member of the Special Weapons And Tactics (SWAT) Unit.

The men appeared virtually via Zoom before Magistrate Esther Sam at Charity Magistrate’s Court last week.

Twenty-six-year-old Mark Grant also known as “Marko”, Ravindra Singh called “Bayon”, 18; and Bently George, 49, of West Bury were jointly charged for the offence of throwing missiles at Corporal Daniels.

Additionally, 23-year-

old Eton George; Kevin Singh, Quince Abrams and 25-year-old Eon Fordyce were jointly charged for throwing three counts of missiles, committed on Constable Atkins, Constable Singh, and Constable Richmond, respectively, on Friday, January 21, at West Bury, Essequibo Coast.

Bently George and Mark Grant were placed on $10,000 bail each while Ravindra Singh, Kevin Singh, Eton George, Quince Abrams, and Eon Fordyce were granted $5000. As a condition for bail, the men were ordered to remain in the confines of their home between 18:00h and 06:00h. The case will continue on Monday, January 31.

NEWS

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Sunday, Jan 30 – 01:30h – 03:00h and Monday, Jan 31 – No closure.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Sunday, Jan 30 – 15:00h – 16:30h and Monday, Jan 31 – 15:50h – 17:20h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY There will be sunshine during the day. Expect partly cloudy skies at night. Temperatures should range between 21 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Northerly to North North-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 3.57 metres.

High Tide: 15:18h reaching a maximum height of 2.59 metres.

Low Tide: 08:50h and 21:25h reaching minimum heights of 0.82 metre and 0.57 metre.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022

LOTTERY NUMBERS L

05 15 17 25 26 28

FREE TICKET

03 Bonus Ball

DAILY MILLIONS

01 06 12 20 25 LUCKY 3

7

6

4

7

Afternoon Draw

9

9

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

02 09 10 11 14 15 18 SUPER

PAY DAY

PAY DAY

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022

01 08 14 16 17 13

03 04 10 16 21

7

1 Afternoon Draw

3X Afternoon Draw

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1 Evening Draw

3X Evening Draw

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

COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Change %

Crude Oil

$90.03/barrel

+0.77

Rough Rice

$268.70/ton

London Sugar

$495.20/ton

-0.21 -0.16

Live Spot Gold

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1791.60

$1792.60

Low/High Change

$1780.30 0.00

$1800.60 0.00%

Budget 2022 remains a people’s budget – President Ali

…says lays groundwork for country’s transformation

D

escribing it as people-centred, President Dr Irfaan Ali on Saturday highlighted the many provisions contained in his Administration’s $552.9 billion Budget 2022 that will lay the foundation for the massive transformation of Guyana and enhance the lives of citizens.

In a virtual briefing, the President spoke of the merits of the budget presented on Wednesday and how its policies are interconnected to improve the lives of Guyanese. The budget makes provision for increases in old age pension, public assistance, cash grants for school children and increasing the tax threshold to $75,000.

According to the President, Budget 2022 lays the groundwork for further development. He encouraged all to look at the budget in a holistic manner.

President Ali spoke of how his Government’s fiscal plan for this year comprehensively addresses the day-to-day lives of Guyanese while also simultaneously detailing plans for national prosperity, job creation, expanding the economy and enhancing productive capacity.

“Budget 2022 is not only people-centred but it is geared at addressing our productive capacity of our country and every sin-

President Dr Irfaan Ali

gle sector… investment in the human resources that would give us the capability and the potential to develop these sectors.”

“Unless we enhance our productive sector and productive capacity, we cannot build a strong economy. We cannot talk about local content, we cannot talk about the economy, we cannot talk about making sectors more competitive if we do not enhance the productive capacity,” the President said.

Zeroing in on the agriculture sector, the Head of State explained that his Government’s investments are aimed at moving traditional food production

and agriculture towards agri-business development and more diversified production. This includes building infrastructure to make agriculture more resilient to shocks of climate change as well as attracting more young people into the sector.

President Ali also spoke about the specific interventions to support traditional agriculture industries such as sugar, rice and fishery which he said will support farmers and bring more disposable income to households.

Turning his attention to energy, the President posited that this sector will allow for a diversified economy,

job creating and enhanced living for citizens. The Head of State also spoke of ICT development in the country, particularly in hinterland communities so that they can be up to speed with the rest of the country.

When it comes to tourism, the Head of State pointed out that the continued growth that is being seen is an offshoot from the oil and gas sector. In light of this, President Ali explained the need to capitalise on building a sustainable tourism product.

He noted that investments, particularly in the training of workers for the hospitality sector, are critical in order to make the sector competitive. As such, he said allocations made to enhance and promote “Brand Guyana” are aimed at bringing more traffic here thus resulting in foreign spending in the country that will see many small businesses benefiting.

“Imagine what a reduction of 50 per cent in our energy cost will do for you.

Imagine how it will enhance your life, more disposable income. Imagine how many jobs will be created during and after construction of our hydro and natural gas energy facilities. Imagine what our new shorelines will look like… Budget 2022 brings TURN TO PAGE 11

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guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022

Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544 223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 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

Budget for economic takeoff

L

ast week, the Finance Minister presented this year’s budget which will be debated on Wednesday. The official chosen theme was more political than economic: “Steadfast Against All Challenges, Resolute in Building Our One Guyana”. This newspaper believes that “A peoplecentered Budget for economic takeoff” is more apt. From the time of independence there have been any number of theories of economic growth, but the hard lesson learnt since then is that while economic growth is necessary for development, the latter’s focus on the wellbeing of people cannot be neglected.

Guyana is a small state trying to navigate its way through a world-system that has become tremendously integrated through the intensification of globalization that ironically began with Europe’s “discovery” of our “new world”. It is clear that the PPPC government has shaken off the last vestiges of the moribund ideologies that kept our early leaders in thrall and our country in poverty. Not only Marxism has shown itself incapable of dealing with this new world, but also Neo-Liberalism that was supposed to usher in the ”end of history”. None of the economists from either school could predict the economic collapse of 2008.

As such, pragmatism rules the day and this is exactly what the 2022 Budget is: pragmatic. If there was any need to justify this approach, we witnessed the capitalist US government intervening with equity to save the postfinancial and manufacturing sectors while the communist Chinese government is funding capitalist corporations on a scale unheard of in history. As the latter’s late leader Deng Xiaoping observed wryly in the 1960s – “Black cat or white cat, if it can catch mice, it’s a good cat.”

As such, while was customary to accept the workings of the market to make allocative decisions for the economy, the increasing telescoped development of Japan, followed by the Far Eastern Tigers and then China through governmental interventions has now made that approach the norm. As such, even in the absence of formal 5-year plans of the old Marxist economies, modern economies seeking to take off are guided by governmental strategic decisions. What are the strategic interventions signaled by the 2022 Budget? We do not have to look farther than the PPPC’s elections’ Manifesto.

First and foremost is the focus on infrastructure, primarily roads and bridges understandably so for a country as large and sparsely settled as we are. These are critical for any country seeking to develop in consonance with the philosophy of “teach a man to fish, rather than giving him a fish”. In the Budget, there is the funding of the highway from Linden to Mabaruma, the rehabilitation of the Corentyne Highway leading to the about-to-be launched Corentyne Bridge to Suriname, and the Demerara Harbour Bridge etc.

For agriculture, there are several farm-to-market roads and one road network in the intermediate savannahs to facilitate production of soya and corn for stockfeeds.

The grandaddy of all projects is the facilitation of the gas-to-shore project with its integrated power generation and industrial estate for heavy industries to produce LPG and its downstream products like urea. This will provide the power and demonstrator effect to broaden our traditional agriculture economic base. Combined with facilitating the Local Content Act and other industries, technical and vocational schools have been augmented within a $74B education budget - in addition to the 20,000 scholarships that are already in the pipeline. Also catered for is the 650MW AFHEP that the PNC coalition had killed but industrialization demands. No country can develop without security and the $48B for this sector provides the funds for the root and branch needed changes that are painfully obvious to all and sundry.

But while the budget will teach all Guyanese to fish and live their lives in dignity without depending on handouts, until they begin catching fish, the government has also catered for more money to immediately end up in the pockets of citizens. $73B for the healthcare sector with see only an increase in Public Hospitals where care and medicines are free, but also upgrading the entire system.

(To be continued)

Two students of Redeemer Primary School showing their computer skills to Education Minister Priya Manickchand during the commissioning of an Information Communications Technology Laboratory at their school (Education Ministry photo)

In future, living with COVID could mean boosters only for our most vulnerable is distressing for those of us working on the inside, but has been laid bare for all to see during the pandemic.

IBy Andrew Pollard

S

ince the pandemic began almost two years ago, the monster that is Covid-19 has visited every corner of Earth, killing more than 5.5 million people. But we have fought back with astounding speed and vigour, and the situation today is very different from that in early 2020. Ten billion vaccine doses will have been administered worldwide by early February. The Covax scheme has delivered 1bn vaccines to lower-income countries. As a result, global daily deaths from the virus are at their lowest point in more than a year.

So, is the monster slain?

No. Covid-19 will not just disappear. Only one human infectious disease has been eradicated from the planet – smallpox – and that took nearly 200 years. Polio is near to extinction, but it has taken a 70-year campaign.

Covid-19 may be even more troublesome. Unlike those viruses, Covid-19 has been able to easily adapt to find its way around human immunity (whether from infection or vaccination) so that it can survive. Omicron, or its progeny, will probably be with us for decades to come.

We don’t yet know exactly how the future of Covid-19 will manifest.

Perhaps Covid-19 will decline and then return in regular seasonal waves, as with RSV and influenza. It is also possible that

outbreaks at other times of year will continue, but get less spiky due to higher levels of immunity in the population.

Have we learned how to fight back? Yes. What has changed most dramatically over the past 12 months is not the virus, but us.

Immunity is the armour that means we can now walk the streets again. Vaccines have changed the world.

But we must accept that protection against infection is, and will continue to be, incomplete. Over time, as the armour wears thinner, infections will occur again.

But protection against severe disease will be largely maintained. We should not expect to return to the vulnerable situation we were in before the vaccines were first made, where we had to hide behind closed doors.

(At least, not until the next pandemic, with a new disease, for which we must be better prepared.)

This is why the next phase of the battle against Covid-19 must involve making vaccination available everywhere during 2022. With

the huge increase in global capacity since the first doses were give 13 months ago, there really is no excuse for failure.

However, we shouldn’t be overconfident about the universality of vaccine protection. There are still those without adequate immunity, either because they weren’t vaccinated (through choice or access) or because their bodies could not respond to vaccines, and there are also those with other frailties that make them vulnerable still, and on whom the virus will prey.

Meanwhile, for those who remain vulnerable it is critical that we continue to develop and use new treatments for the virus, and to build resilience in our health systems to better cope with our Covid-19 future. Improving capacity in beds and staff will take time, but it is now life-savingly obvious that we must take this action to provide resilience in the face of pandemic threats, and even to cope with a normal year.

Here in the UK, the strain on the NHS in normal times

While it is unlikely to be necessary, financially viable or desirable to deliver booster vaccines to whole populations regularly, it seems very possible that some vulnerable individuals could benefit from them. We now need detailed analysis of infected patients arriving in hospitals in order to better assess who remains at risk and to decide whether and when to deploy such booster doses for vulnerable individuals. If future variants come and go as rapidly as appears to be the case with Omicron, it will be difficult to make modified vaccines quickly enough, and existing vaccines may have to be deployed. However, if a predictable coronavirus season is eventually established, as with flu, an annual update vaccine is absolutely feasible.

We know how to hone the armour that is needed to defend the world from the harm caused by Covid-19.

Vigilance, caution and the tools forged by science are our only route forward. (The Guardian) (Prof Sir Andrew Pollard is director of the Oxford Vaccine Group, University of Oxford. He was the chief investigator for the clinical trials of the Oxford/ AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine)

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022

5

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

Better days are “Good life” by APNU+AFC was extended to their officials ahead for all of

Dear Editor, I have taken note of a letter penned by former Georgetown Mayor and PNC strongman Hamilton Green under the caption “What about the rushing through Parliament of important Bills with a slim majority superintended by a compliant Speaker?”

In his missive, Green stated, “I have in mind the trivialisation of our Parliament by rushing through the now-famous

Natural Resource Fund Bill”. In this regard, I wish to point readers to March 9th, 2017, when the party which Green supports used its “slim majority” to rush through the Prime Minister Hamilton Green Pension Bill amidst fierce opposition from the then PPP/C Parliamentary Opposition and a large section of the country. This Bill gave Green $1.5M dollars per month, and has cost taxpayers $85.5M to date.

Some of those taxpayers currently footing the bill are themselves victims of Green’s many indiscretions, which took place during the PNC dictatorship period he is being paid for.

Many, including me, are of the view that Green, who has been an abject failure even as Mayor of Georgetown, is not deserving of this hefty pension.

This is yet another example of how the “good life” promised by the APNU+AFC was

only extended to their officials and cronies, while the overwhelming majority of the Guyanese population suffered – such as the 7,000 sugar workers whom they dismissed, and the 2000 Amerindian CSOs. It is also a timely reminder of why they must never ever again be allowed to attain the reins of Government.

Sincerely yours, Adron Pires

Repeal APNU/AFC’s Cybercrime Act of 2018 Dear Editor, Freedom of speech and expression does not come cheaply in any part of the world; it is paid for with blood, and the assault on it is unrelenting.

David Granger’s Cybercrime Act of 2018 is being used by citizens to silence voices that offend, insult, and/or vilify them. I cannot stay silent while this assault on our essential right to speak is torn from us.

I shall not vilify the Guyana Police Force for their response to reports and subsequent arrests of

Sherod Duncan and multiple ‘Mudwata’ suspects; the Police are mandated to enforce the laws of Guyana, and the same applies to the Irfaan Ali Administration, as it, too, is bound by the law of the land. What I would ask is for the organisations who have appointed themselves the voices of ‘civil society’ to take their eyes off of the oil money for a moment and join with me in calling for the repeal or amendment of APNU+AFC’s Cybercrime Act of 2018.

I do not agree with the opinions of Sherod Duncan, I find him to be an unbri-

dled ass, but I would shed blood in defense of his right to speak and express himself in a manner in which he feels comfortable. As for ‘Mudwata’, that brand of satirical entertainment worked as an anonymous cartoon character. During that period of Guyana’s history when our democracy was threatened by the APNU+AFC attempt to steal the election, ‘Mudwata’ stood fearlessly on the side of right, and was emphatic and impactful in defense of democracy. We must do the same for ‘Mudwata’ now that his freedom of speech

and expression are under threat.

These are two recent high-profile casualties of the Cybercrime Act, and both were brought by Guyanese citizens against their fellows. This is an ominous development, and underscores the need for the immediate repeal before the rot of reporting on our neighbours sets within the psyche. The post-war confessional prose

by German pastor Martin Niemöller, “First they came…” applies.

Dear Editor, Budget 2022 has been presented to the nation. It is a meticulously well-written document that has all the associated features of a Government on the move.

In the minds of all its hearers, this budget showcases a Government that cares for its people, and one that would deliver despite opposition.

This is what most of us wanted to hear and see in a budget. It is a well-put-together document that would enhance growth and development in this, an oil rich environment.

Ours is an economy under rapid transformation; which means that, with careful management, our country would soon be propelled into a Developed Country status. The naysayers have already hinted that this is an overambitious venture, and one that is destined to fail; but, as the old

adage puts it, “Nothing ventured, nothing gained.”

We are looking forward for that day, and the starting point is now.

The budget gives allocations to every sector there is. In agriculture, education, infrastructure, housing and healthcare, it caters for the young and old in every area in its all-pervasive approach. It meticulously touches every facet of nation-building in that forward trajectory of progress.

The naysayers are in their usual negative campaign mode of criticising and tearing down without any real sense of responsibility as to give a sensible alternative. Their contributions have been negative ever since their loss at the last election.

What I am also convinced of is that ulterior motive of theirs, wherein they would like to see a nullity to the budget, just as they did

in 2011. But those negative efforts are all to no avail, because they are not in a position of strength.

This brings me to another point: with such a large budget, funding would have to come from sources other than the usual taxes, and here is where the oil revenues come into focus. We must begin usage of our oil funds to put that spike into development. Isn’t it then a stark revelation of the aggressive assault of the Coalition Opposition on the NRF Bill? The aim was to tie the hands of the Government to the point of frustrating them with the non-use of

our Natural Resource Fund.

That despicable move by the main Opposition had to be stopped.

Guyana is on the right path, and the momentum generated by its rapid progress means that nothing is going to stop us now. It is forward upward movement only. No longer would our country be referred to as an underdeveloped, highly-indebted poor country (HIPC).

No longer can the rest of the world speak about us in condescending tones.

Sincerely, Robin Singh

Budget 2022 is a comprehensive package

Respectfully, Neil Adams

our children

Dear Editor, The national budget presented by Dr Ashni Singh is the largest to be read in the National Assembly. At $552.9B, one thing is certain: no Guyanese was left out or forgotten by their Government.

But there is one aspect of the budget with which I am most pleased, and that is the huge allocation to the education sector. The PPP/C Government has allocated $74.4B in the 2022 budget for the development of the education sector in alignment with its 2030 vision for that sector.

Further, Dr Singh announced an increase to the Because We Care cash grant, from $15,000 to $25,000 per child, and the School

Uniform grant has been increased from $4,000 to $5,000. This total of $30,000 to each boy and girl from nursery to secondary school is no small feat. This cash grant is impressive, as it significantly removes the expenses that otherwise would be incurred by parents and caregivers of our youngest, brightest, and most precious resource - our children.

And if this trajectory is maintained, unhindered by bad politics, like in 2015, when APNU/AFC decided to cut funding for the programme, then one can confidently stand by this Government in knowing that better days are ahead for all of our children.

Yours truly, Attiya Baksh

Errant behaviours by minibus operatives proving to be challenging for Police Dear Editor, Yet again, the Police are to roll out a campaign against untidy and reckless minibus conductors and drivers (INews Jan 28). Too often, these campaigns are rolled out with much fanfare and hype, then fizzle and die, and the situation reverts to the undesirable. It is obvious these behaviours and conduct are proving to

be challenging for the Force.

In an unrelated matter, it has been observed that a number of minibuses working city routes and beyond do not have conductors. Are conductors a mandatory requirement; and if so, are they still supposed to be licensed?

Sincerely, Shamshun Mohamed

6 FEATURE

SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

CHOOSING A PET IN 2022

O

ver the last three weeks, with inputs from Paws for a Cause Guyana, our guest contributor to the “Pet Care” column, we have been advising on the VALUE of adopting/acquiring a companion animal in 2022.

This topic is of such seminal importance that I have written and spoken about it for decades.

In my practice, I am often confronted with pet owners whose attention to their wards is limited to the occasion when the animals are near death (from any of a variety of maladies that were preventable), or brought in

by Good Samaritans, who have found the animal that was deliberately strayed by an owner who simply got ‘fed up’ of the once playful puppy/kitten.

Thus, I have decided to dedicate a few more columns to deal with the practicalities and realities of adding a pet as a new member of one’s family. Apart from dogs, we shall also include considerations associated with cats and exotic and wild animals as pets.

Primarily, we do not wish the adoption to be a revolving door! When the adoptee meets the family for the first time, it must know that it has arrived at a permanent home.

It has been said that humankind is divided into two categories - those who love dogs and those who love cats. Well, whether you prefer the gratitude-showing, devoted, tail wagging dog or the independent, aloof feline with its quiet grace and mysterious charm, there are certain common activities that you, as owner/caregiver, must undertake if the pet is to be happy and secure.

All children love animals! Whether it is a child at Kabakaburi with his pet

Paws for a Cause - Guyana

monkey or parrot, or the little city girl who just loves the newly acquired ball of fur and fun.

All animals require love unconditionally and infinitely. However, love alone will not keep the pet contented and healthy. As for all children, pet-rearing requires nurturing, nourishing and attention. However, unlike children, who will grow and become independent, pets require daily care throughout their lives. They need nutritious meals appropriate to their age/weight, grooming, exercise, and routine visits to the veterinarian.

As you consider your choice of pet, let me advise that although most animals can become pets, to a lesser or larger degree, one should refrain from keeping as

pets those ‘exotic’ animals about which one knows very little. For example, one would have to understand the physiology and behavioural habits, as well as the nutritional requirements of snakes, if they are to be kept as pets. In fact, much debate can be generated as to whether monkeys or birds (macaws, parrots, etc.) or deer should be kept as pets at all.

How often have we not seen ‘Polly’ come into the clinic dehydrated and with lacklustre plumage due to poor feeding regimes, and with parasites abounding in her ungroomed feathers. Poor ‘Jacko’ the monkey, who is instinctively mischievous, harvests the wrath of his owner who, only a couple of months ago, adored his antics. The belt around his waist is tied tighter, the chain is made shorter, while intelligent “Jacko” beseeches the caregiver with his pitiful eyes for help. And “Bambi, the deer, invariably succumbs to a nutritional imbalance.

These occurrences are a reflection of poor management of these exotic animals, are inhumane, and are simply torture. As indicated above, we shall specifically discuss the issue of keeping wild animals as pets in future columns.

Now, let us look at our more common pets: dogs and cats.

The situation here is also clear. If you, for example, have an allergy to fur, you should not keep cats. Cats are essentially house animals, and will shed hair everywhere, and in those places where the pointer broom or vacuum cleaner will not reach.

And if you wish to keep a dog, do you have enough yard space for its kennel and exercise?

Though cats and dogs are both four-footed and furry, they are vastly dissimilar in many aspects of their behaviour and needs.

So please do your research; speak to fellow caregivers and your veterinarian when making a decision to adopt/acquire a canine or feline companion animal.

A dog craves your attention and affection. He will fawn over you, and his tail is the barometer expressing his happiness.

A cat, on the other hand, does not even remotely consider the need to please you.

He/she is individualistic, full of surprises, and will show you love on his/her terms.

A dog is a mixer! A cat is a loner, and mixes only when it wants to.

So, as a potential caretaker, determine whether you want a dog, which will be more responsive, loyal, and affectionate to you, or whether your personality prefers the independent and more subtle and nuanced signs of affection of a cat. A scientific study done for the BBC in 2016, measuring the level of oxytocin (“love hormone”) in the saliva of cats and dogs before and after seeing their caregivers, concluded that dogs love their owners five times more than cats. I am sure many cat lovers would disagree. As I always advise, biology is a living science, and we can hardly expect exactitude on emotional studies. Nevertheless, I was tickled by the photograph below, which does tell a story!

Bottom line: do not take into your family a cat that you wish to act like a dog, or vice versa. No such animal exists.

Next week we shall deal with specific facts that must be considered before one adopts a companion animal.

NEWS

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Private Sector praises Budget 2022 for pro-competitiveness measures …as businesses urged to pass down benefits to consumers

B

udget 2022 was described by President Dr Irfaan Ali as a budget that would, among other things, serve as the platform for Guyana to further develop its manufacturing and agro-processing capacity. And indeed, the budget is receiving praise from the Private Sector Commission (PSC) and the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA).

In a statement on Saturday, the PSC commended Senior Minister with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh for presenting a balanced budget with no new taxes. According to the PSC, this budget will lay the foundation for massive economic growth, expansion of the Private Sector and the creation of jobs for all Guyanese.

“The PSC notes that in addition to the wide range of public investment projects and initiatives to stimulate economic activity and generate incomes, Budget 2022 proposes measures aimed at improving business competitiveness, promoting local content and ensuring tax parity,” PSC said.

“The Commission is pleased to see that some of the measures proposed during consultations with the Private Sector Commission on the national budget were considered and reflected in the budget for 2022.”

The PSC zeroed in on specific noteworthy measures, including the elimination of the 2 per cent withholding tax on resident contractors, the removal of the 10 per cent excise tax and 14 per cent Value Added Taxes (VAT) on commercial trucks, haulers, cranes, safety equipment, and oil spill response equipment.

The removal of excise tax on the importation of new double and single cab pickups was also praised, as well as the lowering of the excise tax on gasoline and diesel to 10 per cent and the

extension of freight costs to pre-pandemic levels. The allocation of $420.5 million to train unskilled Guyanese for jobs in the oil and gas sector was also praised.

“The Commission is aware of the fact that the budget must be shaped in the context of the global and domestic environment, given the problem of the supply chain and the challenge of pandemic. The PSC believes that this budget is well on its way to bringing about major transformation in the economy,” PSC said.

GMSA

In its statement, the GMSA commended the Government for what it called a “historic and transformational budget”. Among the aspects of the $552.9 billion budget that was praised was the fact that no new taxes were proposed in the budget.

“As is customary, the GMSA made an extensive submission for Budget 2022 to alleviate many of the challenges its membership faces within each of the major sectors. A significant number of tax measures and budget allocations will help the manufacturing sector advance competitiveness and capacity building.”

“While the GMSA was hopeful for more reduction of the VAT rate and adding more goods and services to the zero rated and exempt supplies, the association recognises that this was a very strategic budget which strikes a balance for both businesses and individuals,” the Association said.

According to GMSA, more jobs will be created with the Government’s budgetary allocations towards infrastructure. GMSA also noted that there is likely to see a sudden demand for more skilled and unskilled workers, which would in turn create a spike in employment cost.

The Association also noted that a pressing con-

PSC Chairman Paul Cheong

FITUG President Carvil Duncan

GMSA President Rafeek Khan

cern among its membership, largely made up of small business owners in the agro-processing, forestry and services sector, is access to finance which has hindered growth. This, GMSA said, was addressed by the budget.

“The GMSA anticipates the benefit of affordable financing and revolving fund stemming from proceeds of Guyana’s new and emerging oil sector. Hence, it is our hope that the recently passed Natural Resource Fund Bill will aid to the facilitation of affordable capital,” the Association said.

“GMSA complements the Government’s initiative in 2021 to facilitate grants valued at $329 million to Small Business Bureau (SBB) which benefited many small businesses.

The GMSA would like to ask for an expansion of the grant component to further improve small business capabilities and readiness for local content opportunities.”

The GMSA meanwhile recommended that robust funding go towards regulatory agencies such as the Government Analyst-Food and Drug Department (GAFDD), Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS), Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These agencies, according to GMSA, play a vital role for the development of industries

that adhere to international standards.

“It is noteworthy to mention that the weakening of competitiveness in recent years has put our country at a major disadvantage in the traditional sectors. The GMSA would like to see resuscitation of the National Competitiveness Council and an update to the National Competitiveness Strategy.”

“The GMSA is extremely pleased about the budgeted amount of $245 million for the establishment of new industrial estates in Regions Two and 10. Industrial estates with closer proximity to raw material sources will certainly help with competitiveness as more manufacturing facilities are established,” GMSA said.

The GMSA also referred to the Government’s planned investments in alternative energy and hinterland roads, which it noted would strengthen Guyana’s competitiveness.

the Government of Guyana had listened to the concerns of the people, with the budget the result.

“In this vein, we recognise the improvement in the income tax threshold that will improve workers’ disposable income. We note too, the expansion of tax-free allowances to include life and medical insurance premiums. Apart from putting more monies in the hands of workers, the policy ensures that our workers and their families have better protection in difficult times.”

“Additionally, we considered the decision to exempt withholding taxes on certain level of interest payments. Clearly, this is a propoor initiative that ensures that our ordinary people can save and gain more,” FITUG said.

FITUG said that in addition to the tax measures, the budget contains several pro-people initiatives which the Federation welcomes.

One such pro-people measure is the significant boost given to school children who will now receive $30,000 aggregately.

“Additionally, thousands of our children will benefit from the provision of tablets and flash drives undoubt-

FITUG

Meanwhile, the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) also spoke highly of the 2022 budget. The Union was of the view that

edly to close the chasm between the rich and the poor.

An outstanding initiative of Budget 2022 is the provision of support to dialysis patients. The FITUG is aware that this life-saving treatment cannot be afforded by everyone, and the State’s support will undoubtedly make a meaningful difference.”

“We recognised from Budget 2022 the deliberate efforts to mitigate against international developments which have redounded to higher cost-of-living. We laud the extension of the freight cost adjustment that seeks to levy taxes at pre-pandemic levels,” FITUG also said.

Another measure praised

by FITUG was the reduction of excise tax on fuel from 20 per cent to 10 per cent, which the Union said was particularly impactful. The Union warned that businesses should pass down the savings from this measure.

The announced investments in the housing sector and the money being invested in the social sectors were also welcomed by the Union.

“We, at this time, urge businesses to pass down the savings accruing to customers to ensure that the Government’s policies are truly impactful. The Federation also commends the decision to establish farmer markets. We believe the initiative will be a boon to both consumers and farmers and cushion the prices in the cost of food,” the Union said.

“FITUG recognises that Budget 2022 is heavy on plans for tomorrow as well.

It places special emphasis on infrastructure to ensure that our country can respond to the growing demands of the future,” FITUG added.

8 NEWS

SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

3 arrested after gun find at Mahdia

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olice now have in their custody three men, after they were found with a firearm with matching ammunition in their possession at Mahdia, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni).

The discovery was made sometime around 17:45h on Friday.

Reports are that ranks from Regional Division Eight were on traffic duties at Seven Miles, Mahdia, when they stopped an ATV without any identification mark.

They requested the driver to

produce his licence and other documents for the ATV, which he failed to do.

As a result, the rider and two other males who were also on the ATV with him, were escorted to the Mahdia Police Station where a black 9mm handgun and 9 live rounds were found on them.

The three suspects are in Police custody as investigations continue.

This arrest comes on the heels of a recent discovery of an illegal firearm by Police at Number 63 Beach,

The firearm that was found at Mahdia

Corentyne, Berbice.

Police said two men who

reside in Nickerie, Suriname, were arrested following the discovery of a 9mm semi-automatic pistol and eleven 9mm rounds at the Number 63 Beach.

The discovery was made at around 13:00h on Wednesday last by ranks from the Number 51 Village Police Station, who were acting on information received.

The two suspects, aged 46 and 37, both fishermen, are currently in Police custody.

(G9)

2 more litterbugs arrested

T

wo persons, a man and a woman, were reportedly arrested by Police on Friday for illegally dumping garbage in the city.

The litterbugs were arrested by City Police and handed over to the Guyana Police Force. They were identified as two employees of Zulu Connections located on King Street, Georgetown.

According to Police, the duo was arrested for dumping garbage on King Street, Georgetown.

Video evidence was provided by a concerned citizen, which led to their arrest. They were each placed on station bail and will make their court appearance on February 8.

Just two days ago, two males and a female were ar-

The man that was arrested for littering

The woman that was arrested for littering

rested in separate incidents and charged for littering in Georgetown.

Two of the three persons

were vendors, while the other is a homeless man.

The first incident occurred when the homeless man was

caught dumping garbage at Russel Square, Stabroek Market, Georgetown.

After being caught and arrested, the man identified a female vendor as the person who had paid him to dispose of the garbage. They were both arrested and placed on $20,000 bail. They are expected to be arraigned in court on February 8.

Police also revealed that another man who has not been identified was arrested on the East Bank of Demerara, and will be charged soon, after being caught littering at the Meadow Bank wharf on the East Bank.

He was arrested by a Police rank and escorted to the Ruimveldt Station. (G9)

Moving on...

T

...but up or down politically? hey say change is inevitable…you just can’t stop the moving finger of time that “writes and moves on”.

Wasn’t it fella Zeno who said you can’t stick your toe into the same river twice? Your toe mightn’t have changed but the flowing river certainly did!! So your Eyewitness is quite hip to change. You get it? “Hip” …which now has to be explained because our language has changed and “hip” ain’t what it used to be. It dates the user as being from another era - or maybe even a different age!!

But while there’s change, there’s also continuity. While some things may change, it’s essence remains constant.

And this brings your Eyewitness to the topic du jour…race/ ethnicity voting holding sun”down”. In our dear mudland, race and ethnicity are used interchangeably - and maybe for good reasons. While race refers to the way we “look” ethnicity lumps together folks according to the way they “act”. So we can see why most times race and ethnicity represent distinctions looking for a difference!

Take for instance our “Mixed” folks. Most (but not all) of the “mixing” is the presence of African genetic elements.

But in everyday life, the American “one drop of Black blood” curse wasn’t explicitly enforced here. Papa Doc’s quip about “one drop of White blood” making folks “white” rang truer!!

But when it comes to culture/“acting” and voting while Mixed folks might’ve once done their own thing, for the longest while, they’ve generally cleaved to the PNC with its “African” core! The Amerindians usually split their votes pragmatically while everyone else voted “ethnically”!!

For decades we’ve been promised that this “albatross” of race and ethnicity will go away for any number of reasons…but mostly because of “education” and “progress”.

So we’re more educated nowadays, aren’t we? And in place of “hip” most folks are more “woke” no? Your Eyewitness certainly hopes so. But more than education and progress, there’s the role of “circumstance” in generating change. And when it comes to voting behaviour there’s one playing out big time!!

So what’s the new “circumstance”? Well for the first time in a long time we’ve just completed a decade (2011-2021) where no one ethnic/racial group’s an absolute majority.

And the small numbers of folks who march to their own drummers and vote for their own interests have formed a “swing vote” block. The PNC’s African/Mixed/Amerindian block is now almost evenly countered by the PPP’s Indian/ Amerindian/Mixed block!! So there you have it folks…we’ve now entered the promised land.

And if the two behemoths have any sense they’ll hit those racially/ethnically moderate notes not to drive away anybody!! …with the Opposition Leader?

It used to be said, “another day, another dollar” but of recent it’s become, “another day, another confusion in the opposition camp”. It’s providing so much grist for your Eyewitness’ mill that it’s in no danger of grinding to a halt!! So what’s the latest dirt? To everyone’s shock this newspaper quoted a “source” from the PNC camp claiming that two newbie PNC MPs were being considered as Opposition Leader!!

Now your Eyewitness immediately took this with a large grain of salt - maybe even several!! So what was this - misdirection? Then the following day, another source claimed that in the near term - which means by Wednesday for the Budget debate! - the APNU Chief Whip’s gonna “act” as Opposition Leader to deliver the initial response to the Finance Minister’s Budget Speech. Now the two “leaks” aren’t necessarily contradictory - and may actually be complementary.

The holding action gives some more time for the intense behind-closed-doors horse trading going on.

The long knives are out for Norton? …in US race relations?

Biden had promised to appoint the “first Black Supreme Court Justice” in the history of the USA. And it looks he’s gonna keep his word.

But with a conservative majority it’s more symbolic than substantive Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

9 State to confiscate drug smugglers’ assets – AG NEWS

SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

…following court victory over confiscated Mercedes Benz

I

n the wake of its court victory over a claimant seeking to recoup a Mercedes Benz Convertible seized as a part of a drug bust, the Attorney General (AG) Chambers headed

by Attorney General Anil Nandlall has warned that the State will continue to hit drug smugglers where it hurts – that is their pockets.

On Saturday, Nandlall said that the public can expect greater enforcement of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act and the AML/CFT Act and increased seizure of assets implicated in drug trafficking investigations – including moveable and immoveable properties.

“In execution of this policy, the recent efforts of the State to detain an expensive motor vehicle used in the trafficking of narcotics pending efforts to have the motor vehicle forfeited to the State was upheld by the High Court in a recent decision,” AG Nandlall said on Saturday in a statement.

This court case was brought by one Godfrey George Osbourne on November 22, 2021, after his Mercedes Benz Convertible

C2000, driven

by Troy Jacobs, was seized by the Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) following the discovery of 3.156 kilograms of cannabis inside the vehicle.

“The driver and another occupant were jointly charged for trafficking in narcotics contrary to Section 12 Attorney General Anil Nandlall (3) of the Narcotic Drugs Act. Upon the arrest of these persons, Mr Mohabir Anil Nandlall the said motor car was de- SC MP, Loretta Noel, tained by CANU officers Senior State Advisor, and pending the hearing and de- Ms Yonika Roland, State termination of the charges Counsel, contended, among against the occupants of the other things, that forfeiture motor vehicle,” the AG fur- of the said vehicle had not yet taken place, and that the vether explained.

In his court case, hicle was being lawfully kept Osbourne sought an order in custody by CANU to perto release the Mercedes back mit the Magistrate to deterinto his possession, trading mine whether the vehicle is under the name of UK Auto liable for forfeiture under the Parts. He claimed that while Narcotic Drugs Act upon conhe is the owner of the vehicle, viction. Therefore, the State he was not involved in the argued, the Application was unwarranted, drug trafficking case against premature, and an abusive of process,” the occupants of the vehicle the AG said. at the time of the seizure.

Justice Jo-Ann Barlow “The State, representagreed with the State’s ed by Attorney General,

The Mercedes Benz Convertible C200

arguments, dismissing Osbourne’s application and ordering him to pay $50,000 in costs to the Attorney General. Among the court’s findings was that “the Applicant had not submitted any evidence that the said vehicle was forfeited; b. the said vehicle was lawfully seized

by CANU and not forfeited; and c. it has not reached the stage to deal with third party rights and that there is no basis to release the vehicle to the Applicant.”

According to the AG, the

State will continue to hit the source of financing for those accused of drug smuggling and will also work with international law enforcement agencies as well as local law enforcement agencies in jurisdictions to which seized assets are traced.

“Studies have shown that this type or approach to drug trafficking and organised crime, that is, striking at their financial and economic base, usually has a significant impact in combatting these scourges, and the State

has every confidence that such actions will have similar results in Guyana.”

“In this regard the Attorney General’s Chambers intends to work closely with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Guyana Police Force, the Special Organised Crime Unit, CANU, the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), and other law enforcement agencies in Guyana in the execution of this policy,” he added.

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Budget 2022 remains...

Continue removing mental slavery

I

ndia was the first British colony to gain independence in 1947 - some 75 years ago. Yet, it was only last Wednesday that it honoured one of the architects of that independence in a manner that officially brought him to centre stage, so to speak. A holographic statue of Subhash Chandra Bose (soon to be replaced by one of granite) was installed in front of India Gate, under the cupola that once housed a statue of King George V. They also replaced the colonial hymn “Abide Ravi Dev by thee” at the end of their “Beating Retreat” Republic Day celebrations with an Indian song composed after their 1962 War with China.

At the same time, over in Guyana, the passing of Balram Singh Rai precipitated a debate on his role in our independence struggle; his alternative strategy to that of Cheddi Jagan in that struggle, and the subsequent silencing of that role, akin to Subhash Bose’s. Most recently, the Government published six new “Atlantic Readers” for children at the nursery and primary levels to achieve literacy by Grade 4, and to address our “cultural complexities…(and) demographic uniqueness”. All of these efforts represent an ongoing attempt to eradicate debilitating traces of our colonial experience that were imposed during slavery, Indentureship, and its aftermath.

I have written before of these “lingering traces”, as analysed by the Latin American theorist Anibal Quijano, which he called the “Coloniality of Power”. He demonstrated that while “colonialism” might have ended, its structural features, dubbed “coloniality”, remain firmly in place. Quijano posits that we were all conscripted by a European-defined “modernity” that began in 1492 with the conquest of the Americas. It developed and extended the structures of power, control, and hegemony that emerged during the era of colonialism. He posits that the coloniality of power takes three forms: systems of (racial) hierarchies, systems of knowledge, and cultural systems.

Race was created to justify the enslavement of Africans, using Christian myths that included a “Great Chain of Being” with God on top, followed by his (all white) angels; then mankind, with Whites on top and Blacks/Africans at the bottom. Other groups, like Indians and Chinese, who ironically fought to maintain their subaltern status, were placed in intermediate positions.

Remember Yesu writing about our “Coloureds” insisting they were “superior” to Africans, who in turn insisted they were superior to the “heathen Indian”? Indians reacted and asserted their “cultural superiority”, and even their “racial” affinity to Caucasians. Race still matters, and complicates our relationships with other groups wherever we Girmitiyas/Indentureds were shipped.

Quijano asserts that race remain embedded in capitalism, which was developed out of Europe’s conquests. “The other process was the constitution of a new structure of control of labour and its resources and products.” The global racial/ethnic hierarchy of Europeans and non-Europeans was an integral part of the development of the capitalist world system. That included transitional forms such as Indentureship, in which the control of labour was guaranteed without the moral opprobrium of slavery. The Girmits/Indentureds, then, are an important cog in the extension of coloniality from slavery. They represent the contradictions inherent in the myth of “free labour” from slave labour in the “accumulation by dispossession” stage of capitalism.

The “Systems of knowledge” should be especially relevant to academics in our local university. Quijano writes, “Europe’s hegemony over the new model of global power concentrated all forms of the control of subjectivity, culture, and especially knowledge and the production of knowledge under its hegemony.” How do we break out? The Atlantic Reader, rather than the Royal Reader, suffices?

The third element of coloniality of power is the creation of cultural systems that revolve around a Eurocentric hierarchy, and that enforce Eurocentric economic and knowledge production systems. We all ape Eurocentric norms in which we would invariably be second class. We therefore all live within a multiplicity of colonialities: Conquest and modernity; race; ethnicity; gender, the nation; the hegemonic and hegemonised mind etc. For us to have a clear idea as to what we hope to accomplish for our people, we need to appreciate the constraints at the individual, group, state/nation and global levels. For instance, why look down racially/ethnically at other groups when we ourselves are suffering that scorn from others through hierarchies of race?

Shouldn’t we fight for equity and equality of opportunity for all groups in each country we live in, plus gender justice and environmental sustainability?

that imagination to life as the seeds are now [being] planted to realise all of this,” he stated.

President Ali further outlined the impact other significant investments such as improving infrastructure across the country and reducing traffic congesting will have on businesses and families.

“This is how the budget impacts ordinary peo-

ple, not by false pens inking negative propaganda to achieve self-serving goals.

But by hardcore, structural, targeted policies and programmes that enhance the lives of Guyanese.”

“The hundreds of thousands of persons who will benefit from new highway roads and bridges that will reduce travel time, and wear and tear of vehicles are the ones who will un-

FROM PAGE 3

derstand how this budget touches their lives, and they are the ones Budget 2022 is designed to help,” the President further explained.

Budget 2022 was presented on Wednesday and makes provisions for, among other things, reduction of fuel prices, support for dialysis patients, the bulk allocation for specific cost of living initiatives

such as increases in old age pension, public assistance, cash grants for school children, incentivising savings in the banking sector, reducing the cost of medical and life insurance, increasing the mortgage loan ceilings, raising the income tax threshold to $75,000 and freight cost adjustments that negates the passing on of over $6 billion to consumers. (G3)

12 NEWS

SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

5 more COVID-19 deaths, 20 in ICU …11,191 active cases in Guyana

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ocal deaths from COVID-19 increased by five more on Saturday – four of whom were males.

This has moved the country’s death count up to 1165 since the first death was reported in March 2020.

This data was released by the Health Ministry, showing three unvaccinated persons among the new deaths.

One was partially immunised and the status of the fifth is unknown.

On January 29, a 74-yearold male from Region Four and a 68-year-old from Region Five died. Previously

on January 28, three men: an 86-year-old from Region Three; a 73-year-old and 55-year-old from Region Six also succumbed.

Along with deaths, confirmed cases also took a hike to 59,450 with the detection of 471 new infections.

There are 20 patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 204 in institutional isolation, 31,965 in home isolation and seven in institutional quarantine. Active cases in Guyana are pegged at 11,191.

From the 27,485 males and 31,965 females that test-

ed positive, 47,094 have recovered completely. Guyana has conducted 504,385 tests to date.

A breakdown showed 37 new cases in Region One (Barima-Waini), 13 in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), 61 in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), 150 in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica), 33 in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), 49 Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), 11 in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), 33 in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), 78 in Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo) and six in

Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice).

Vaccination continues among the population, with latest figures showing 422,727 first dose uptake among the adult population or 82.4 per cent. Second doses are at 311,796 or 73.8 per cent.

For adolescents, 22,862 or 31.3 per cent are fully vaccinated. Some 37,598 persons have returned for their booster shots.

Government started administering booster shots after studies around the world showed that the efficacy of

the vaccines wanes after six months of receiving both doses.

Persons have been encouraged to take the booster dose, since protection against the disease would wane after months of complete immunisation. This month, some 18,000 new infections were reported with the rise of the Omicron variant – a percentage of which was pregnant women.

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

This order emphasises the

need for everyone, 12 years and older to get vaccinated against COVID-19; the need for correct and consistent use of a face mask when leaving your home; the importance of maintaining the six feet physical distance from others; and the need for good hand hygiene to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

If anyone is displaying any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19 or needs any additional information, they are asked to contact the COVID-19 Hotline 231-1166, 226-7480 or 624-6674 immediately or visit www.health. gov.gy (G12)

13 Displacement of Guyanese by foreign workers a major concern – GAWU T NEWS

SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

he Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) has engaged with Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn on the issue of foreigners displacing Guyanese workers in the oil industry.

Since the Union established its Oil and Gas Branch in June 2021, workers from the sector have continued discussions with the Union. Among the is-

sues raised was a prominent concern that Guyanese are disadvantaged by the high percentage of foreigners, since the latter is given preference for employment.

“We indicated to the Minister that workers have informed our Union that in many instances there were locals who though capable of undertaking certain jobs were unable to grasp such opportunities as foreigners were apparently given pref-

Textbooks for every primary school child to start soon – Manickchand

Education Minister Priya Manickchand

F

or the first time in history, the Education Ministry will be supplying every textbook needed for all primary school children in the public sector - a process which will commence soon.

Education Minister Priya Manickchand announced on Friday that the rollout will commence within the near future, offering every primary school student the relevant resource materials. In the past, parents were tasked with purchasing these books – a cumbersome burden on those who could not afford due to financial limitations.

“In a very short time, all the primary school children of this country will receive every single text book they need to use in this country and that would be the first time, our country is giving to every single child, all the text books they need at the primary level,” the Minister revealed.

Minister Manickchand reminded that after taking office in the midst of the pandemic, the Education Ministry had ensured that every Grade Six child was covered with textbooks and other material. This was executed at a time when no oil resources were used.

“When we were not an oil producing country, we considered the children of the country and their ability to read; and what that

would mean for them individually, in their families, in the communities and for us as a country. We found ways to write the book, as well as print the book and give it to each child…

Last year, without oil money, we found money to buy for every single primary school Grade Six child, all the textbooks they need; a collection of about 17 and books that had only been available to children who had means. We furnished all our children with those books and that will continue,” she explained.

Guyana’s mid-year report for 2021 would have shown that $980.5 million was spent by the Education Ministry to acquire worksheets and textbooks for children in the public school system. Some 165,958 textbooks were procured and distributed to over 13,000 Grade Six students.

After entering office in August 2020, it was found that Guyana had not procured textbooks in over three years which resulted in a “big deficit”, according to the Education Minister. In light of this, the Ministry had moved to procure all textbooks needed at the primary level.

After last year’s National Grade Six Examination, Manickchand had called for textbooks to be returned, in order to provide these opportunities for the new batch. The Education Ministry had implemented a policy whereby the National Grade Six Assessment results are withheld until the books are returned.

“For the public school children, it made all the difference in the world. I came into the Ministry and found zero textbooks. I had none to give out and textbooks hadn’t been bought for four years so there was a serious deficit. If I don’t collect this back, by next year we’re back in that status where I can’t give everybody because I don’t have enough to give everybody,” she was quoted as saying. (G12)

GAWU President Seepaul Narine

erence,” GAWU shared in a statement.

Some workers had complained that they were required to demonstrate to their foreign superiors how they should undertake their tasks. In other cases, GAWU said, it appears as though some foreign workers had not possessed the relevant documents to work in the country.

“In the sector, we com-

municated, such occurrences were fostering some level of acrimony between local and foreigners. We also indicated to the Home Affairs Minister that we have recently learnt that some firms were recruiting foreigners to unskilled and semi-skilled jobs which can competently be performed by locals.”

Minister Benn shared that his Ministry has also heard of similar issues and where complaints are lodged, they are able to pursue investigations to address such matters.

“The Minister informed our Executive Committee when he took over the Ministry there was a need to expand the immigration infrastructure to address the volume of requests for work permits and other matters,” the statement added.

While Benn would have hinted at increased efforts

Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn

to address such issues, he noted that there is need to upskill the labour force to match the demands of the economy. The Minister shared that given the rapid expansion of the country in the coming years, there may be need to develop programmes for Guyanese to capitalise on employment and opportunities.

He urged GAWU, whenever it receives informa-

tion, to communicate same to his Ministry in order for such situations to be addressed. Meanwhile, the Home Affairs Minister also recognised the need for collaboration to ensure that Guyanese are protected; and that the enterprises have adequate and sufficient skills to realise their objectives.

After the engagement, GAWU shared, “We believed that the interaction was fruitful and timely and allowed several important matters to be communicated. In the coming times, the Union will continue to reach out to workers and where necessary inform the Ministry and Minister of information which comes to our hands. GAWU will also seek to play its role in upskilling our Guyanese labour and will in the coming weeks seek to consider steps it can take in this regard.”

14 NEWS

SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Guyana, Suriname sign pact for Private Sector Business Council

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eepened trade and a stronger bilateral relationship between Guyana and Suriname are expected in the future, with the official pathway paved for the establishment of a GuyanaSuriname Private Sector Business Council.

Guyana’s Private Sector Commission (PSC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Suriname Trade and Industry Association, expected to comprise of five representatives from each side. It is expected that the Council will be established within a fortnight and will hold its first meeting to discuss the areas of cooperation.

The sole purpose, a statement said, is to strengthen economic ties and initiatives between the two organisations. The

framework was signed virtually by Chairman of the PSC, Paul Cheong and Chairman of the Suriname Trade and Industry Association, Bryan Renten.

Among the areas of cooperation under the microscope is to promote trade, industry and investment as a means toward economic growth. The parties will look at improved competitiveness through innovation and entrepreneurship; skills development to create solutions in education and workforce development; information and communications technology development and exchanges; and share research in agriculture with partnerships in forestry development.

Meanwhile, creating an enabling environment for the rapid and secure movement of goods; advancing their tourism sectors and fi-

nancing of large public-private projects form another part of the collaboration.

An extensive plan has been outlined to enhance the synergies between businesses in the two countries.

It also features partnerships for infrastructural development in key sectors such as transportation, education and oil. An energy transition and climate change agenda, the parties said, would also be on the radar since it is driven by

private sector involvement.

With the unprecedented growth in store for Guyana and Government’s efforts to sustain investors’ confidence in the economy, many countries have signalled interest to establish their presence here.

Canada-Guyana Chamber

In December 2020, the Canada-Guyana Chamber of Commerce, a non-partisan institution promoting and facilitating investment

and trade between Guyana and Canada, was established. Back in October Treina F Butts was announced as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and she had highlighted her agenda to develop strategic alliances, expand CGCC market presence, and bring value to business partners here in Guyana, Canada and other locations.

American Chamber

This is complimented with the presence of the American Chamber of Commerce Guyana (AmCham Guyana), which also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the American Chamber of Commerce of Trinidad & Tobago to establish mutual co-operation between the two organisations last August.

Around that timeline, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) also entered into a tripartite agreement with the Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) and the Suriname Trade and Industry Association (STIA).

Through this agreement, the parties were seeking to enhance trade linkages and facilitate economic cooperation and collaboration between Guyana, Barbados, and Suriname. A Tripartite Working Group comprising representatives of the GCCI, BCCI and STIA was formed with the expectation of meeting on a tri-monthly basis for the purpose of developing programmes and initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable trade and investment in the region. (G12)

FEATURE

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Battling domestic abuse, financial, health, emotional hardships – UG graduands tell of journey to success C

lose to 2600 graduands of the University of Guyana (UG) will walk the virtual graduation stage in a series of ceremonies beginning February 4, 2022. However, they each have a unique and inspiring story of how they were able to beat the odds in their journey to academi c glory.

F o r 38-yearold Tandy Tappin, who did her post-graduate diploma in administration, i t

Gerard Budhan – Associate’s Degree in Information Technology

was facing an abusive relationship and losing not one, but two of the closest persons in her life, all while completing her Bachelor’s and post-graduate Diploma at UG. According to Tappin, she faced constant abuse at the hands of

Marinella Glasgow – Associate’s Degree in Biology

her partner following her decision to pursue further studies.

The veteran educator explained: “A course that was supposed to last only four years ended up taking almost eight years for me to complete. I wanted to stay in the relationship for my son because at the time he was preparing to write the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) and I didn’t want my absence to cause him to do

Stefan Bowman – Bachelor’s Degree in Economics

poorly.”

“I stayed, my son got President’s College and I was happy for him, but then we were in a car accident and he died and I didn’t get to mourn as I wanted to. I resumed classes at UG and I thought I could have made it but I was overwhelmed and I had to take a break.

So, I ended up taking two years’ leave from UG.” However, just as Tappin was regaining her strength, tragedy struck again with the sudden death of her mom. With tears in her eyes, she recounted: “That was my breaking point, because she passed away exactly two weeks before the death anniversary of my son. So, my mom’s death helped me to come to grips with what’s happening and that I don’t have to pin it all up but I can let it all out. It was at that point I recognised that life has to go on and I have to live for my other child, my daughter who is now 12 years old.

I told myself I have to be strong for her and be that positive role model for her, despite all of the challenges.”

Tappin, who has been in the teaching profession for approximately 20 years, echoed sentiments of appreciation and love to UG and her colleagues for showering her with compassion and support.

“I thought I needed some help in getting myself together. UG provided support by providing a counsellor to help me along the process until I was mentally strong again…

That gave me the drive to complete and that encouraged me [to] know that it’s okay to do what I had to do in order to make yourself better. I would really, really like to thank the University for providing such services for students like me and others who may be going through other issues in life,” Tappin expressed.

Financial hardships

Twenty-year-old Leah Cummings is set to graduate

Riaz Rupnarin – Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations

with an Associate’s Degree in Biology come February 12.

As Cummings reflected on the journey of attending the University, she expressed: “It was rough at the beginning because no one from my family actually came here so I had no help at all but it got better at the end.”

Leah added that the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in her family facing severe financial hardships as her parents became unemployed, “I had tremendous financial challenges because my mom and dad were both out of a

job due to the pandemic. It had put a strain on me and I wanted to drop out as I asked myself who would pay my tuition fees.”

Leah expressed that luckily, she was able to secure a scholarship from the church which helped to take care of her tuition fees.

The aspiring Chemist is currently employed as a lab technician at Demerara Distilled Limited (DDL) and is hoping to return to the University soon to further her studies.

Gerard Budhan is the eldest of three siblings and is the first in his family to graduate from the University of Guyana with an Associate’s Degree in Information Technology (Distinction).

Like many other graduands, Budhan faced many challenges in his quest to pursue further studies. “It was challenging because it took me about five years to come to UG after leaving high school and this was mainly due to financial reasons. I had to work within those five years before I got that opportunity and the timing was

Tandy Tappin - Post-Graduate Diploma in Administration

Leah Cummings – Associate’s Degree in Biology

right to start the University.

I had to try catching up with everyone else who were fresh out of high school and also, I was working while coming to the University. Sometimes I was not getting any time off and those were very difficult days, I had many days when I was lacking sleep. It was difficult sometimes to complete the assignments and not feel sleepy in class,” he explained.

Budhan expressed that he had to make up for the lost time at work. “In order

to overcome the challenges at work I had to work extra hours on the job in order to make up for the time lost.”

In terms of the impact UG has had on his life, Budhan highlighted: “UG has allowed me to have a different outlook in life. I am more confident and able to express myself better. When I started UG it was an encouragement to my younger siblings.

They literally started UG the year after I started. They had doubts and all these things before but seeing me in this position, I was able to inspire them.”

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Battling domestic abuse, financial, health...

Health difficulties

Marinella Glasgow, an aspiring oncologist who is graduating with an Associate’s Degree in Biology (Distinction), hails from Victoria on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD). She detailed that during the

course of her studies she became ill, “When UG started online I got really sick because I couldn’t manage it anymore and I found it very difficult that particular semester in the second year. I got some really hard hits, I got some difficult grades,

I got some Cs but I worked hard to pull it back and I am here today and now I am graduating with a distinction.”

She added that another challenge was juggling work and studies, “The journey started quite comfortably since I had a background in CAPE, however it became very hard when I started to work.

Sometimes I would have to come to a class in the morning and leave right after class and then come back for class again and then go back to work, it was hectic.”

In offering words of encouragement to other students she said: “I want to encourage students to be patient with themselves, when we come to University, we meet with so many people from so many different backgrounds and when we measure ourselves sometimes with think we aren’t good enough, but the fact that you are here means that you are good enough and the fact that you start, you can end, and you will end.”

Loss, trials and hardship

Thirty-two-year-old Riaz Rupnarin will be graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations. Like his colleagues, the Pomeroon resident was faced with many challenges, including losing one of his parents while he was attending university, but he was determined to persevere.

He explained: “Financial constraints coming from a poor background, my father passed away, my mother is a pensioner, my brother is disabled, and my sister is a single parent mother, so not having that financial backing was very hard. I had to basically support myself through the four years of studies. So, sometimes it was quite hard, because I had to miss certain experiences due to finance, for example; as International Relations students in our first two years, we had trips overseas with our lecturers but I had to miss them because of finance and other reasons.”

“The four years have been quite a trial and more so with the addition of the pandemic in the latter part of our studies.

We know International Relations is a bit more physical and it was very hard to get that kind of experience while doing it online,” Rupnarin added.

FROM PAGE 15

Stefan Bowman, 23, of Mocha, East Bank of Demerara (EBD), will be graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics on February 11.

Similarly, Bowman also has a unique story of beating the odds to reach the stage of graduation. He detailed that he had to deal with the loss of his mother in the final semester of his third year; this he noted was the most difficult period in his life.

On the day he came to the Turkeyen Campus to take his official graduation portrait, Bowman wore a pin with the photograph of his mother whom he recalled was always very supportive and would have been extremely proud to see him becoming a graduate of UG as this was her desire.

“Losing my mom while studying was really rough. Even when my mom was very sick, she kept asking me about classes and exams so I knew I had to push through for her… I dedicate my degree to my mom, she would have been very proud,” he said as he was overcome with emotions.

When asked how he was able to cope with the loss while studying, he related that the University, his peers and his father were all incredibly helpful, “My colleagues kept pushing me through. They helped me out with a lot of assignments and they made sure that I got whatever I needed and if I missed anything they made sure they kept checking in on me.

My dad also helped me along the way, he provided the financial assistance I needed because I am not working but now that I have graduated, I will be looking for a good job.”

A record number of attendees are expected this year. Due to the online nature of the event, there will be no limit to the number of invitees who can join the proceedings. Members of the public are invited to view this year’s ceremonies on the University of Guyana’s Facebook page @ uniofguyana.

(This article which was submitted by the University of Guyana, is part of its ongoing series of student success stories, who have overcome various obstacles while pursuing their tertiary education.)

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J

anuary 31 is the first day of the Spring Festival holiday in China. This festival bears great significance for Chinese, implying reunion and harmony in the Chinese culture. Due to the unswerving efforts of the Chinese government to put the COVID-19 epidemic fully under control, people in China will be able to have a normal reunion with their families and be soaked with family love and friendship. No matter where they are or how busy they are, Chinese will try hard to sit at the family reunion dinner table and watch the Spring Festival Gala on the Lunar New Year’s Eve. On the very next morning, men and women are all in new outfits, greeting their elders and giving lucky money to their children.

The Spring Festival also means ringing out the old year and ringing in the new.

The year of 2021 witnessed extraordinary achievements in China’s development history. The Communist Party of China celebrated its centennial birthday ceremoniously. China completed the building of a moderately prosperous society in all respects and started a new journey of building it into a great modern socialist country in all respects. Its economic performance is eye-catching under the context of sluggish global economic recovery, the GDP growth rate of 8.1% marks it as the fastest among major economies in 2021. The per capita disposable income of Chinese citizens is 35,128 yuan, roughly US $5,500, another 8.1% actual growth. The Chinese people have fully enjoyed China’s development dividends, and their sense of fulfillment has been further enhanced. The Edelman Trust Barometer 2022 recently reported that 91% of Chinese people trust the Chinese government, ranking the first among the 28 major countries the company covered.

2022 is the year of the tiger. In the Chinese zodiac culture, tiger symbolizes cour-

Chinese Ambassador to Guyana Guo Haiyan

age and strength. On the 5th day of the Spring Festival, the 24th Winter Olympics will kick off in Beijing, making the city the first in the world to host both Summer and Winter Olympic Games. The Chinese people will watch the winter games while celebrating the Spring Festival. China is fully prepared to present streamlined, safe and splendid games to the world. Top athletes from various countries will show their courage and strength, which is a manifestation of the Olympic spirit. Let’s wish them good luck.

2022 also marks the 50th anniversary of China-Guyana diplomatic relations. This is a major event in the history of bilateral relations. The Chinese side, together with the Guyanese side, will host a series of grand celebrations to offer good opportunities for further mutual understanding between the two peoples, and to strengthen bilateral cooperation in trade, infrastructure, education, health and many other fields, for more fruits in the next 50 years and for the benefits of the two countries and the two peoples.

To conclude, I would like to extend my sincere greetings and best wishes in the Spring Festival to all the Chinese compatriots in Guyana and every Guyanese.

Wish you good luck, good health and good cheer. Happy Chinese New Year!

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Chinese New Year 2022: Year of the Tiger T

he Chinese New Year, or Spring Festival, has more than 4000 years of history and is the longest holiday of the year. In the 21st century, the national holiday begins on the first of the Lunar Calendar and lasts until the 15th of the first month.

In 2022, Chinese New Year begins on February 1st and ends February 15th with the Lantern Festival.

In China, all stores are closed during the first five days of the Spring Festival, with some not opening until the very end. People must stock up on New Year supplies (nian huo) beforehand and many begin on the Laba Festival. Kitchens will also show the first signs of Spring Festival dishes with the preparation of cured meat, salted fish and other preserved food.

Celebrations of Chinese New Year traditionally last for 16 days, starting from Chinese New Year’s Eve to the Lantern Festival. In 2022, that is from January 31 to February 15.

The most notable dates of the Lunar New Year 2022 are: New Year’s Eve on January 31, 2022 New Year’s Day on February 1, 2022 The Lantern Festival on February 15, 2022 The year of the Tiger 2022 is a Year of the Tiger, according to the Chinese zodiac, starting from February 1, 2022, and lasting until January 21, 2023.

People born in a year of the Tiger are predicted to be brave, competitive, unpredictable, and confident. They will experience their zodiac birth sign year (benmingnian) in 2022, which is considered bad luck.

Recent/upcoming years of the Tiger are 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, and 2022.

Chinese New Year Calendar The Laba festival However, in the traditional sense, the Laba Festival (Làbā jié) of the lunar December (January 10, 2022) marks the beginning of the Spring Festival.

Memorial ceremonies are held on this day to pray to ancestors and gods (such as door gods) for fortune and a successful harvest. Though paganist in nature, the festival has become integrated into religions such as Daoism and Buddhism.

The main food for this festival is the Laba porridge (Làbā zhōu). It includes seven types of grains, such as red bean, red dates and husked rice. There are many different myths regarding this porridge, but all teach the lesson of being grateful and not taking what you have for granted.

In addition, the Laba menu includes Laba tofu (àbā dòufu), noodles (Làbā miàn) and wheat kernel rice (Mài rén fàn). It is also said that eating ice on this day will prevent any stomach aches for the year.

The Spring Festival Kicking off the main festivities is the Little Year on January 24, with the Spring Festival officially beginning February 1 (January 31 is New Year’s Eve) and ending with the Lantern Festival on February 15.

The Spring Festival is long and has specific activities and traditions for each day. As usual, they vary between regions. Here is a short summary of what may be on the schedule.

1. January 24: Little Year In the past, government officials celebrated this day on the 23. Common folk celebrated on the 24 and fishermen on the 25. o Lunar date December 23 (là yuè èr shí sān) o Solar (Gregorian) date January 24, 2022 o Activities & traditions This is another day of memorial and prayer ceremonies. Main activities include house cleaning to sweep away bad luck and pray to the stove god. o Food Sugar melons (táng guā), also known as stove candy, are made of malt and can only be found on this day. Other food include baked wheat cakes and tofu soup (dòufu tang).

2.January 31: New Year’s Eve (chúxì) Depending on the moon cycle, New Year’s Eve either lands on the 29th or 30th of the lunar December. Regardless, this day is also known as the 30th of the year. o Lunar date December 30 (là yuè sān shí) o Solar (Gregorian) date January 31, 2022 o Activities & traditions The reunion dinner, the most important meal of the year, takes place on this day. After dinner, the children will receive red envelopes. The family will then stay up late and wait for the New Year. o Food A feast of everyone’s favourites and specialties.

aware. o Superstitions & beliefs Fair weather is a sign of a fruitful harvest. A grey sky warns of a year of losses. Stores opened today will have great business.

2. February 9: Providence Health This is the birthday of the highest god, the Jade Emperor (yù huáng dà dì). In Daoism, he is the sovereign of the universe and is the ultimate representation of “sky.” o Lunar date o

3. February 1: Spring Festival The original name for this day was Yuán Dàn, with Yuan meaning “the beginning.” However, Yuan Dan is now used to refer to the New Year of the solar calendar. o Lunar date o

January 1 (zhēng yuè chū yī) Solar (Gregorian) date

February 1, 2022 o Activities & traditions Firecrackers start off a day of greetings and blessings between neighbours. There are no specific activities other than celebrating the New Year. The ancient Chinese record and analyse the weather, stars and moon to predict the fortunes of the year. The practice is known as zhàn suì. o Food In addition to food from last night, people can also celebrate with Tu Su wine (tú sū ji). o Superstitions & beliefs It is forbidden to sweep or clean on this day; else good fortune will be swept away.

1.February 2: To the in-law’s (yíng xù rì) In northern regions, the events are held on the 3rd. o Lunar date January 2 (zhēng yuè chū èr) o Solar (Gregorian) date February 2, 2022 o Activities & traditions On this day, a married daughter must bring her husband and children to her parent’s home.

She must bring a gift bag of crackers and candies, which her mother will divide between neighbours.

This simple gift shows that “it’s the thought that counts” and expresses the daughter’s longing for her hometown. o Food Lunch is eaten together and the daughter should return to her husband’s home before dinner.

2.

February 3: Day of the Rat. According to folktales, this is the day that rats marry. o Lunar date o

January 3 (zhēng yuè chū sān) Solar (Gregorian) date

February 3, 2022 o Activities & traditions People will leave some grains and crackers in corners to share their harvest with the rats. They will then go to sleep early in order to not disturb the “wedding.” This way, the rats will not disturb them during the year either.

3. February 4: Day of the Sheep (yáng rì) In Chinese mythology, the world was created by Nuwā . Sheep were created on the 4th day. o Lunar date o

January 4 zhēng yuè chū sì) Solar (Gregorian) date

February 4, 2022 o Activities & traditions The god of wealth is prayed to on this day.

Offerings include three types of meat, fruits and wine. At midnight, people will welcome the god in by opening the windows and eating and drinking until daybreak. o Food The welcoming of five gods requires three tables of food. The first has kumquats and sugarcanes for a sweet life and successful road; cakes are on the second table. The third table has the main course of whole pig, whole chicken, whole fish and soup. o Superstitions & beliefs

It’s forbidden to slaughter sheep on this day. Fair weather is a sign that the sheep will be healthy this year and the family will have a bountiful harvest.

4. February 5: Break Five After praying to the god of wealth, markets and stores are able to open again. Women can also go out and give New Year blessings. o Lunar date o

January 5 Solar (Gregorian) date

February 5, 2022 o Food Dumplings (jiao zi) are eaten to bring in wealth. Traditionally, it should be eaten for five days straight. The rule isn’t followed too strictly anymore, but every household will have dumplings at least once. o Superstitions & beliefs Some say that taboos and activities forbidden on other days can be performed on the 5th. Others say it’s unfit to work on this day.

5.February 6: Day of the Horse Nüwa created the horse on the 6th day. o Lunar date o

January 6 Solar (Gregorian) date

February 6, 2022 o Activities & traditions After the “break five” of the day before, people can truly begin working again. People will also send the spirit of poverty away, supposedly a fraillooking man who liked to drink thin porridge and purposely turned his clothing into rags, by burning scraps and offering banana boat candles. o Superstitions & beliefs It is believed that the god of bathrooms will visit to check the sanitary conditions, so every household will use this day to clean.

6. February 7: Day of the Human On the 7th day, humans were created by Nüwa.

Celebrations for the Day of Humans originate from the Han dynasty. o Lunar date o

January 7 Solar (Gregorian) date

February 7, 2022 o Activities & traditions Ancient China had the tradition of wearing a hair accessory called rén sheng . Colourful cutouts and gold engravings of flowers and people were pasted onto screens. o Food Seven Gem Porridge is the dish for this day.

It includes seven types of vegetables: kale, leek, mustard leaves, celery, garlic, spring vegetable (chūn cài) and thick leaf vegetables (hòu bàn cài). o Superstitions & beliefs Fair weather is a sign of a safe and sound year.

1. February 8: Day of the Millet According to legends, this is the millet grain’s birthday. Agriculture was the basis of ancient Chinese society and people highly valued the grain. o Lunar date o

January 8 Solar (Gregorian) date

February 8, 2022 o Activities & traditions Pets such as fish and birds are released back into the wild to show respect to nature. In modern times, some families visit rural areas to learn about agriculture. This helps children appreciate farmers’ hard work and become more environmentally-

January 9 Solar (Gregorian) date

February 9, 2022 o Activities & traditions The main activities are ceremonies for the Jade Emperor. In some regions, women will bring fragrant flower candles to natural wells, harbours or open space and pray to the gods. o Superstitions & beliefs Before praying, everyone must fast and bathe.

If there is a meat offering, the animal must be male.

3. February 10: Stone Festival (shí tou jié) Ten (shí) has the same pronunciation as rock.

Therefore, this is the birthday of the Rock. o Lunar date o

January 10 Solar (Gregorian) date

February 10, 2022 o Activities & traditions In some regions, the people will freeze a clay jar onto a smooth stone the night before. On the morning of the 10th, ten youths will carry the jar around. If the stone doesn’t fall, it’s a sign of a good harvest. o Food Lunch is a meal of baked bread. It is believed that after eating, the road to wealth will be open and smooth for that year. o Superstitions & beliefs It is forbidden to use stone tools, such as rollers and millstones.

1. February 11: Son-in-Law Day Fathers will invite their daughters and sons-inlaw to dinner on this day. o Lunar date o

January 11 Solar (Gregorian) date

February 11, 2022 o Food Even after meals the day before, there are usually plenty of leftovers from Tiangong Sheng.

The family uses this to treat the in-law.

2. February 16–18: Lantern Festival Preparations During this period people will begin preparations for the Lantern Festival Yuán xiāo jié) by purchasing lanterns and constructing light sheds. o Lunar date o

January 12–14 Solar (Gregorian) date

February 12–14, 2022 o Superstitions & beliefs The saying goes: make noise on the 11th, build light sheds on the 12th, light the lantern on the 13th, light is bright on the 14th, a full moon on the 15th, end the light on the 16th. It has a nice rhythm in Chinese and summarises the activities of the next few days.

3.February 15: Lantern Festival The festival lasted ten days in the Ming dynasty, but is now only five days in modern times. o Lunar date o

January 15 Solar (Gregorian) date

February 15, 2022 o Activities & traditions Creating lanterns is the most important activity during the festival. Lantern Riddles (cāi dēng mí) is a game played by writing riddles on lanterns. As it is a full moon that day, moon-gazing amidst lanterns is the best way to celebrate. o Food Named after the festival, yuan xiao are glutinous rice balls often eaten as a dessert. Either boiled, steamed or fried, they represent reunions. o Superstitions & beliefs Lanterns (tiān dēng) sounds similar to (tiān dīng), or “add children.” Many will light lanterns in hopes of adding children to the family.

Origins of Traditional Chinese Medicine

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T

raditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) arose through a lengthy historical process. The Chinese ancestors’ evolving understanding of medical science is revealed in ancient records concerning deities, sages, shamans, instinct, human interaction, and physical labour. TCM does not have a single root; rather it represents the synthesis of numerous elements and disciplines.

Ancient Chinese legends contain many stories about the invention of medicine by legendary figures such as Suirenshi, Fuxi, Shennong, and the Yellow Emperor. These stories do not record actual incidents. Rather, they represent the experience of ancient clans and tribes over the ages, as they struggled against disease and developed therapeutic methods and medicinal remedies. Such legends offer numerous clues to the development of medicine throughout China, and also reflect the traditional Chinese veneration of ancestors and sages.

Shennong and the 100 herbs Traditionally, Chinese remedies include various types of animals, vegetables, and mineral substances. However, the majority are made from plant products. As a result, the traditional Chinese term for medical remedies and their application is bencao (herbal medicine). Most Chinese medical classics concerning the theory and clinical application of traditional remedies use the term bencao in their titles.

According to one of China’s most popular legends, Shennong, the Chinese god of medicine and farming originated traditional Chinese medicine when he personally tested 100 herbs, of which 70 were poisonous, on himself in a day.

Shennong is another name of the Yan Emperor, one of the legendary ancestors of the Chinese people.

Primitive human society had very limited productive capability.

Humanity had not yet learned to cultivate and propagate agricultural crops and relied entirely on hunting and gathering for survival.

People lived in

caves, eating raw meat and whatever wild fruit, seeds, and roots they could find to allay their hunger.

There were many opportunities for them to accidentally consume poisonous plants, resulting in purging, unconsciousness, or even death. Through a long process of trial and error, humanity’s ancestors gradually learned to distinguish the effects and uses of various plants. They determined which were poisonous, which were edible, and which had therapeutic

applications to a comprehensive and scientific system, culminating in the compilation of the fundamental health treatise.

Fuxi invents the nine acupuncture needles Fuxi is another legendary ancestor of the Chinese people, said to be one of the originators of traditional Chinese medicine. Legend has it that Fuxi invented the nine types of needles used in Chinese

therapeutic methods developed, Bianshi stones evolved into knives and needles. Bianshi stones continued to be used for several thousand years after the end of the stone age.

The evolution of surgical instruments was closely connected to social progress and increasing productive capability. Primitive Bianshi stones were refined into stone-based and needles, which were replaced in turn by bamboo, wood, and bone and finally by bronze, iron, silver and gold.

applications. For instance, they discovered that rhubarb causes diarrhoea, melon stalks induce vomiting, and ginger relieves nausea.

As humanity learned to utilise various plants to achieve specific effects, the science of herbal medicine was born.

The legend of Shennong testing herbs upon himself is a metaphor for the Chinese ancestors’ long process of discovering the properties of medicinal herbs. As their store of practical experience increased over the ages, herbal medicine progressed from occasional, intuitive

acupuncture: chanzhen (ploughshare needle), yuanzhen (round needle), tizhen (arrowhead needle), fengzhen (sharp-edged needle), haozhen (fine needle), changzhen (long needle) and dazhen (large needle). For thousands of years, Fuxi has been honoured as the originator of acupuncture.

From the stone age well into the bronze age, stone tools played a paramount role in human society. Bianshi stones were one of humanity’s earliest surgical instruments. Bianshi stones were slender implements with a sharp tip or blade, used primarily to lance abscesses and drain pus and blood. They may also have been used to therapeutically stimulate specific points on the body in an early version of acupuncture. As

Yi Yin invents herbal decoctions Decoctions are a type of traditional Chinese remedy made by boiling various substances, primarily herbs, in water to extract their medicinal properties. Legend has it that the process of decocting herbs was investing by Yi Yin, a renowned Prime Minister said to have lived during the king Tang reign of the Shang Dynasty.

Yi Yin was an excellent chef who also had a deep understanding of medicine. It is said that Yi Yin invented the first medicinal decoctions by simmering together various culinary flavourings such as cinnamon, ginger, liquorice, jujube, and peony.

(Excerpts from Traditional Medicine in Chinese Culture by Yu Youhua and Lin Qian)

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Spring Roll Filling * 1 tbsp oil * 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped or minced * 400g/13oz minced meat * 6 dried shiitake mushrooms soaked in boiling water or 8 fresh * 1 1/2 cups shredded carrot * 1 1/2 cups bean sprouts * 1 1/2 cups (packed) shredded green cabbage * 1 tsp corn flour/cornstarch * 1 1/2 tbsp oyster sauce * 2 tsp soy sauce Spring Rolls * 15-20 spring roll wrappers * 2 tsp corn flour (for sealing rolls) * 1 tbsp water (for sealing rolls) * Oil for frying Sweet and Sour Sauce * 2 tsp corn flour/cornstarch * 2 tbsp water * 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar * 1/3 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste) * 2 tbsp ketchup * 2 tsp soy sauce

Instructions

Filling

Heat oil in a skillet or wok over high heat. Add garlic, stir quickly, then add meat. Cook, breaking it up as you go. Add carrot, bean sprouts, cabbage and mushrooms. Cook for 3 minutes or until vegetables are wilted. Add corn flour, soy sauce and oyster sauce, cook for 1 minute until the liquid is gone. The filling should not be watery, it should be kind of sticky.

Spring Roll

Mix corn flour and water in a small bowl (for sealing the rolls).

Carefully peel off one spring roll wrapper, keep the others covered under a damp tea towel. Place a very heaped spoon of filling on the bottom. Roll up halfway, fold sides in, then finish rolling. Use corn flour sludge to seal.

Heat oil and fry spring rolls for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown.

Sweet and Sour Sauce Combine ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to simmer, stirring regularly, then simmer until it thickens to taste (about 3-5 minutes).

Jiaozi

– Boiled Chinese Dumplings Jiaozi Dough

* 1/4 teaspoon salt * 3 cups all-purpose flour * Up to 1 1/4 cups cold water

Filling

* 1 tablespoon soy sauce * 1 teaspoon salt * 1 tablespoon Chinese rice wine (or dry sherry) * 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper (or to taste) * 1 cup ground beef (or desired meat) * 3 tablespoons sesame oil * 1/2 green onion (spring onion, finely minced) * 1 1/2 cups Napa cabbage (finely shredded) * 4 tablespoons bamboo shoots (shredded) * 2 slices fresh ginger (finely minced) * 1 clove garlic (peeled and finely minced)

Directions

1. Stir the salt into the flour. Slowly stir in the cold water, adding as much as is necessary to form a smooth dough. Knead the dough into a smooth ball. Cover the dough and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

2. While the dough is resting, make the filling; add the soy sauce, salt, rice wine, and white pepper to the meat, stirring in only one direction. Add the remaining ingredients, stirring in the same direction, and mix well.

3. Divide the dough into 60 pieces. Roll each piece out into a circle about 3 inches in diameter.

4. Place a small portion (about 1 level tablespoon) of the filling into the middle of each wrapper.

5. Wet the edges of the dumpling with water. Fold the dough over the filling into a half moon shape and pinch the edges to seal. Continue with the remainder of the dumplings.

6. To cook, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add half the dumplings, giving them a gentle stir so they don’t stick together. Bring the water to a boil, and add 1/2 cup of cold water. Cover and repeat.

7. When the dumplings come to a boil for the third time, they are ready.

Drain and remove.

8. If desired, they can be pan-fried at this point.

Nian Gao – New Year Cake Ingredients

* 16 ounces sweet rice flour (glutinous rice flour), plus a bit extra for sprinkling on the baking dish * 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, or 3/4 cup vegetable oil * 3 eggs * 2 1/2 cups milk * 1 to 1 3/4 cup sugar (depending on how sweet you like it) * 1 tablespoon baking soda * One can red azuki beans

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 F. Grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with oil or spray with nonstick cooking spray.

Place all of the ingredients but the beans in the bowl of an electric mixer and mix at medium speed for 2 minutes. Beat for 2 more minutes at high speed.

Sprinkle the extra rice flour into the baking dish and then add half of the batter.

Spread the red adzuki beans on top. (You can mix some batter into the beans if they are too thick to spread).

Spread the other half of the batter over the red azuki beans. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes. Test for doneness by inserting a chopstick. If it comes out clean, it is done.

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T

he Kamuni Creek (Kamuni Creek) is a stream found in in Demerara River. It is located at an elevation of 2 meters above sea level. Kamuni Creek is also known as Kamuni River, which cuts across the left bank of the Demerara River and is flanked on both sides by amazing greenery and rich vegetation .

The Hopetown settlement at Kamuni Creek (a creek more wellknown for the present-day Santa Mission and Santa Aratak villages) began in 1865 as an effort by colonial authorities to induce Chinese indentured labourers to remain in British Guiana after their contracts

accumulate their wealth and improve their future prospects.

He petitioned then Governor Hincks for a free land grant at Camoonie (Kamuni) Creek- approximately 30 miles up the Demerara River, and a small loan to establish the settlement on the left bank of the creek, a tributary of the Demerara River.

Enthusiastic about the idea, Governor Hincks granted the request and the petition was carried in 1865.

Immediately, some 25 settlers were taken to the area, and by the end of the year there were about 70 Chinese settlers. Some historians put the original settlers at 12, with about 170 by year end.

The decline of the settlement came soon after. In 1866, just a year

were up.

Many had heard of the Chinese in Trinidad accumulating wealth from engaging in rice cultivation and commerce there, and saw no prospects for this in British Guiana. A Christian missionary in British Guiana known as O Tye Kim (Wu-Tai-Kam), recognised the dissatisfaction among them and devised a plan to encourage them to stay.

O Tye Kim’s solution was to establish a “Christian Chinese settlement” not only to spread Christianity but also to create a place where the former indentured labourers could work and live independently to

after the settlement was created, allegations of improprieties by O Tye Kim arose with regard to the settlement’s accounts and his own financial enterprises.

In 1972 it was agreed by Dr. Alan John Knight, then Bishop of Guyana, who was also the Archbishop of the West Indies, that the land should be leased for 99 years to the Chinese Association.

At its peak in 1874, Hopetown is said to have a population of about 800 Chinese. By 1891 that number was reduced to 240; by 1901 it had dwindled to 198, mostly the old and infirm.

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A tribute to renowned Chinese- Guyanese

A

s one of the six ethnic groups, the Chinese community has contributed to an integral part of Guyana’s history. The Chinese who arrived as indentured immigrants to Guyana in 1853 have since made their mark in the medical field, commerce, mining, politics, music and education.

For the entire period of 1853 to 1879, a total of 13,541 Chinese landed in Guyana.

Engrained neatly in the fabric of the Guyanese Society are contributions

by Chinese that include the tasty cuisine that continues to be popular in Guyana, folklore and the language which continues to be spoken , and is even taught at the Confucius Institute.

and helped Guyana snatch victory in the nail-biting final against Barbados, hitting a 17-ball 42 under immense pressure.

Robert Victor Evan Wong- politician, civil engineer, businessman, rancher Robert Victor Evan Wong (July 4, 1895 - October 19, 1952) was a politician, civil engineer, rancher and businessman, elected to the British Guiana legislature in 1926 and 1934, and appointed to its Executive Council

Arthur Chung- President of Guyana When Guyana became a republic under the leadership of Forbes Burnham in 1970, the National Assembly elected Chung as the country’s first President; he took office on March 17, 1970.

Arthur Chung was born at Windsor Forest, West Coast Demerara, Guyana. He was educated at Windsor Forest, Blankenburg and Modern High School. Before civic service Chung was an apprentice surveyor and sworn land surveyor. In the early 1940s Chung entered the Middle Temple of London, England and qualified as a barrister in 1947.

He returned to Guyana and was later appointed an acting magistrate.

In 1954, he became a magistrate and in 1960 a senior magistrate. He also served as Registrar of Deeds and of the Supreme Court. He then became a puisne judge and finally an Appeal Court Judge in 1963.

Hon. Arthur Chung was married in 1954 to Ms. Doreen Pamela NgSee-Quan, with whom he had one daughter and one son.

Jonathan Foo- Cricketer Jonathan Foo is among a rare breed of West Indies cricketers with Chinese descent, who was on September 11, 1990, in Port Mourant, Berbice. The young Guyanese allrounder hails from a region which has produced household names such as

Alvin Kallicharran and Rohan Kanhai.

He was one of the stars to emerge from the inaugural Caribbean T2,

The family was allotted to La Grange sugar cane plantation on the West Bank of the Demerara River. Many of the Chinese immigrants and their second generation descendants became shopkeepers, including Soo Sam-kuan the author’s grandfather.

In the process of cultural assimilation his name became transformed into Henry Sue-A-Quan thus initiating the distinctive family surname.

The interest in Trev’s family history came from a curiosity about the circumstances that caused his great-grandfather to leave his native land. Almost 20 years after obtaining a copy of his ancestor’s contract of indenture Trev has applied his training in analytical research to compile this comprehensive account of the experiences of the first Chinese immigrants in Guyana. Trev Sue-AQuan is the Author of Cane Reapers and Cane Ripples Marjorie Kirkpatrick- Author, Historian Born in Guyana and of Chinese descent, Mrs. Kirkpatrick nee’ TingA-Kee, was, for a number of years, Deputy President of the Chinese Association of Guyana, a task she performed with distinction until her retirement in 2014. The Chinese

in 1928. He is notable for being the first Chinese-Guianese member of both the British Guiana Legislative and Executive Councils.

Wong was born in Georgetown, British Guiana, and was the eldest son of a wealthy Chinese merchant. He studied engineering and economics at the University of Bristol, receiving a B.Sc. degree in 1917 in England.

In 1926, at age 31, Wong won election to the British Guiana Court of Policy from the Essequibo Islands.

Wong had been identified as the first person of East Asian descent elected to a national legislature in the Americas.

His subsequent appointment to the Executive Council was also a first for a West Indian Chinese. As a legislator, Wong was a principal proponent of the introduction of personal income taxation. He won election to a subsequent term on the Legislative Council in 1934 under a slogan reflecting his initials: Right Vanquishes Every Wrong.

Wong was co-founder and President of the Durban Race ; he died on October 19, 1952.

Trev Sue-A-Quan – Research Engineer, Author Trevelyan A. Sue-A-Quan was born in November 1943 in Georgetown, Guyana. He is the great-grandson of an indentured labourer who had embarked with his wife and son

historian died in 2015.

Proud of her heritage, Mrs. Kirkpatrick served the Sino-Guyanese community with pride and in 2012, authored her second book, “The Way We Were – Memories of a Childhood in British Guiana”. In her publication, she chronicles the Chinese experience in then colonial British Guiana, recounting and capturing vividly the intrigues of her life as a thirdgeneration Chinese girl growing up in the plural society of British Guiana in the 1940s.

Marjorie was the wife of Mr. Dougal Kirkpatrick, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Professional Guard Service, a premier security service in Guyana. She is also survived by three offspring: Melanie Mc Turk; Dougal I. Keith Kirkpatrick and Sean Maurice Kirkpatrick; daughter-in-law, Leana Kirkpatrick and two grandchildren: Dougal Michael and Stephanie Mc Turk.

Dr. Walter Chin Pediatrician, Physician Dr Walter Augustus Chin, CCH, 12th December 1932 – 4th July 2004, an eminent pediatrician and physician and an accomplished administrator, was Chief Medical Officer and President of the Guyana Cancer Society and became the best-known name in medicine and public health in the country. He was also the head of former Guyana Agency for Health, Education & Food Sciences (GAHEF) and was also columnist

aboard the ship Corona at Canton.

They arrived at Georgetown in February 1874 after 78 days at sea.

Charles John Ethelwood Fung-A-Fatt, CCH, 24th June 1920 – 29th December 2001 An attorney-at-law, built a strong reputation in New Amsterdam, Berbice, becoming a Town Councillor and Mayor there and later served as a Judge of the High Court, Justice of Appeal and Police Complaints Authority.

Dr Ray Luck, distinguished international Pianist Guyanese Dr. Ray Luck CCH, has distinguished himself in the field of piano for decades in all parts of the world. He studied music with Millicent Joseph and Ruby MacGregor while attending Queen’s College. He received the LRSM and FTCL diplomas before going to study at the Royal College of Music in London, then subsequently won First Prizes in Piano and Chamber Music from Paris’s

Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique, and later graduated from Indiana University at Bloomington, USA with the D. Mus Degree. He performed in recitals in several music capitals, such as New York’s Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center, Paris’s Théâtre des Champs-Elysées, and London’s Royal Albert Hall. Concert tours have taken him to Europe, Asia, Australia, and the Caribbean, including a unique visit to Masakanyari, the village of the Wai-Wai in Guyana’s rainforest.

In 1992, Ray Luck was awarded the Government of Guyana’s Cacique Crown of Honour in recognition of outstanding music accomplishment.

Godfrey Chin, social historian, writer In addition to being an avid historian, Godfrey Chin was also a photographer, author of the book Nostalgia and interior decorator in Guyana and the United States.

Several extracts of his works were also published in a local Newspaper.

He re-migrated to Guyana after living in New York and Florida for 27 years. Godfrey’s last major project

was decorating Georgetown Club for Old Year’s Night 2011; he passed away in 2012.

In recent years, through various exhibitions his classic photos of Guyana’s history, from cinemas, Old Georgetown, to sporting events were showcased; he also produced a book of those pictures, chronicling Guyana’s history from 1940-1980.

Vivian Lee Vivian Lee was a well-known Guyanese entrepreneur in the world of entertainment, advertising, and broadcasting, who passed away on August 16th, 2012 in Richmond, B.C. He was the son of Lee Yew, an immigrant from Canton, China and the former Adelaide DeFreitas. As a creative entrepreneur Lee was involved in television, promoting stage shows, advertisement, songwriting and radio as early as the late 1940’s.

Even though Lee, born in 1919, wasn’t the first Guyanese in the record business he left his mark on many parts of national culture. Singer Johnny Braff, who also had some success away from home, was the main artist on Ace Records. In 1966, Guyana obtained independence from Britain and as any experienced producer would do, Vivian Lee released a Johnny Braff album with the celebratory songs. Lee was also behind one of the first Guyanese movies entitled “If Wishes Were Horses” featuring comedian Habeeb Khan. Both GEMS and Ace Records managed to record original material by legendary calypso artists Lord Melody and Mighty Sparrow(Excerpts from an interview with Vivian Lee published on othersounds.com) Martha nee Fung Kee Fung was one of the earliest female business owners in Guyana (1800s). She became a landed proprietor who owned many businesses including a rice mill. She bought two abandoned sugar estates Waller’s Delight and Ruimzight at Windsor Forest which she rented to tenants to plant rice. Martha Street in Windsor Forrest is named for her.

Sarah Lam-a-Poo born in 1870, was the grandmother of Errol “Ping” Gillette, Guyana’s first Ombudsman after independence. She went into business as a young woman making Chinese cakes and Minshee, a seasoning produced from beans in her home.

Asin Ho a Shoo has the distinction of being one of Guyana’s first medical doctors in the first decade of the 20th century. She entered the University of Edinburgh, 1906 to study in the field of Medicine. In 1912 she was a Licentiate of the Royal College of Surgeons at University of Dublin. She went on to obtain a Diploma in Public Health from the University of Dublin and become a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons.

Cheu Leen Ho a Shoo, another first generation Guyanese Chinese, who married Robert Evan Wong, in 1941 was appointed by the then Government as a Member of the Board of Governors for Bishops’ High School, her old alma mater.

Rosalind Fung/Lee was Miss Guyana in 1956 and also won the contest among the three Guianas. This earned her the right to represent the three countries at the Miss Universe contest in Hollywood.

Doreen Chow Wah/Lee became the West Indies Table Tennis champion in 1970 and with Denise Osman won the ladies Doubles Championship 1967-1972.

An even more amazing achievement went to Ada Akai who became Deputy Head Mistress of the then all boys Queen’s College in 1974, an “almost unheard of feat at that time in the country’s history”, Debbie Fung was not only a lecturer at the University of Guyana but was the Ladies Singles Lawn Tennis Champion in 1984 and with her sister Caryll won the Ladies Doubles Championship in 1974, 1975, 1980 and 1983-1985 while another, Diane Lee was Sportswoman of the year 1986.

FEATURE

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27 years and counting…

Georgetown’s oldest hotdog vendor blazes the trail

Brebner is said to be Georgetown’s longest serving hot-dog vendor, some 27 years to date Bruce Brebner posing next to his hot-dog stand along Vlissengen Road on Friday morning, as he prepared to retire for the day. All his hot dogs are usually sold out by 08:30h

I

f you are passing along Vlissengen Road during the rush hour morning traffic, you may recognise him with his hotdog cart, portly demeanor and businesslike appearance. And at age 69, Bruce Brebner says he still has many years ahead of him, as he plies his trade daily.

Brebner sells his hot-dogs from Monday to Saturday in front of the Rubis Gas Station on Vlissengen Road, and he noted during an interview on Friday morning that all his hot-dogs are usually sold out by 8:30am. He said he lives in West Demerara, but his cart is usually parked near Vlissengen Road, making it easier for him to travel to and from home.

“I’m doing this 27 years now. When I started out selling these hot-dogs, I was the only one here around town selling,” the perfectionist said. He said he prepares his sauces, sausages and bread before he leaves

home. How he started out selling is too long a story to tell, Brebner said, but he noted that he always had a knack for cooking and selling.

In fact, he started his trade while living in neighbouring Venezuela. He then remigrated to Guyana around 1995, and at that time he recognised that there was no one selling hot-dogs around town. He said he made his own bike, and during his earlier days, he would ply his trade in the busy downtown area.

These days a number of hot-dog vendors have popped up around town, and while they may be selling the same product as Brebner, he noted that he has his own way of preparing his product. “All of us got to live. I am finished selling now, and I am going home.

All who want to come and sell now can come out and do their thing,” he said as he looked up at the 8:30am sun above.

These days, the prices for commodities have been rising, and Brebner noted that, as the prices rise, he has to adjust, but he said he has to ensure he keeps his product at a high standard. “When things go up, you have to raise maybe by a $20,” he said. He said he also sells fruit juices.

As he packed up his stand in preparation to leave for home, he prepared the last of his hot dogs to deliver to a customer. He said persons would usually call ahead and request his hot dogs, and he would make the deliveries whenever he is leaving the location for the day.

Brebner is a father of 3, and he noted that, through his hot-dog business, he has been able to raise his children and take care

of his family. “I have two boys and a girl.

They are all big and on their own,” he added.

He said that he sold all across town, but in recent years he has been at the same location on Vlissengen Road. During his time as a vendor, he has witnessed a number of events play out in the city. “I passed through all those things. I was never scared or anything, because I have to live,” he said.

Brebner said there are days when he would take a day off, noting that he always ensures he gets good rest. “Well, as long as I have health and strength, I am going to work,” he said. Brebner said he would continue plying his trade, adding that he has to continue making a living.

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26 FEATURE

SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

HEALTH TIPS

LOW SEX DRIVE IN MEN * serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), such as duloxetine(Cymbalta) * Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), like fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline (Zoloft)

affected by various factors, including sociodemographic and lifestyle factors, as well as comorbidities and sexual behaviour.

CAUSES

Dr. Tariq Jagnarine Family Medicine, Endocrinology/Diabetes

L

ow libido describes a decreased interest in sexual activity. It’s common to lose interest in sex from time to time, and libido levels vary throughout life. It’s also normal for one’s interest not to match that of one’s partner at times. However, low libido for a long period of time may cause concern for some people. It can sometimes be an indicator of an underlying health condition.

Studies revealed that low sexual desire among 45-yearold men is a common sexual dysfunction, with a prevalence of nearly 5%; and might be

* Low testosterone Testosterone is an important male hormone. In men, it’s mostly produced in the testicles.

Testosterone is responsible for building muscles and bone mass, and for stimulating sperm production. Testosterone levels also factor into the sex drive.

Normal testosterone levels will vary. However, adult men are considered to have low testosterone, or low T, when their levels fall below 300 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL), according to guidelines from the American Urological Association (AUA).

When testosterone levels decrease, the desire for sex also decreases. Decreasing testosterone is a normal part of aging. However, a drastic drop in testosterone can lead to decreased libido. * Medications Taking certain medications can lower testosterone levels,

* Chronic illness When one is feeling unwell due to the effects of a chronic health condition, such as chronic pain, sex is likely low on the list of priorities.

Certain illnesses, such as cancer, can reduce sperm production counts as well.

which in turn may lead to low libido. For example, blood pressure medications such as ACE inhibitors (Ramipril, Captopril, Enalapril) and beta-blockers (Atenolol, propranolol) may prevent ejaculation and erection.

* Cimetidine, which is used for heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) * Anabolic steroids, which may be used by athletes to increase muscle mass * Certain antidepressants

Other medications that can lower testosterone levels include: * Chemotherapy or radiation treatments for cancer * Hormones used to treat prostate cancer * Corticosteroids * opioid pain relievers, such as morphine and oxycodone * An antifungal medication called ketoconazole

* Depression Depression changes all parts of a person’s life. People with depression experience reduced or complete lack of interest in activities they once found pleasurable, including sex.

Other chronic illnesses that can take a toll on the libido include: * Type 2 diabetes * Obesity * High blood pressure * High cholesterol * Chronic lung, heart, kidney, and liver failure Talking with a partner(s) about ways to be intimate during this time can be helpful.

Also, consider seeing a marriage counsellor or sex therapist about the issues.

Low libido is also a side effect of some antidepressants, including:

* Sleep problems A study in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that

non-obese men with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) experience lower testosterone levels. In turn, this leads to decreased sexual activity and libido.

In the study, researchers found that nearly one-third of the men who had severe sleep apnea also had reduced levels of testosterone.

In another recent study, in healthy men, testosterone levels were decreased by 10 to 15 percent after a week of sleep restriction to five hours per night. The researchers found that the effects of restricting sleep on testosterone levels were especially evident between 2:00pm and 10:00pm the next day. * Aging Testosterone levels, which are linked to libido, are at their highest when men are in their late teens. In the older years, it may take longer to have orgasms, ejaculate, and become aroused. The erections may not be as hard, and it may take longer for the penis to become erect. However, medications are available that can help treat these issues.

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27 “One day I will walk again” - Meningitis patient Ashnie Abrams FEATURE

SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

By Alva Solomon

has to be corrected, the doctor has advised her.

O

n a quiet night in October 2016, Ashnie Abrams of Moruca, North West District (Region One: Barima-Waini) woke up to use the washroom. As she stepped off her bed, she fell to the ground; her feet felt numb, and within minutes she was slumped on the floor, barely able to move her hands.

Then full of life, and upgrading her academic qualifications at the time, Abrams was taken to the hospital in her community, and was later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC), where this young, spritely woman and her parents received the dreadful news that her body, from the chest down, was paralysed.

An MRI scan later revealed that she was suffering from meningitis.

What is meningitis?

According to the National Health Services of the UK, meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord, and in some cases, tumours would develop near to the spine.

It is a condition which can affect anyone, although it is most common in babies, young children, teenagers, and young adults.

It is caused by bacterial or viral infections, and to treat persons with the ailment, the medical personnel would first determine what type of infection the patient has contracted. The most common symptoms of meningitis are fever, headache, stiffness of the neck, irritability, and drowsiness.

Patients recover from this ailment over a period of time, depending on the type of infection. According to the NHS, some patients would experience problems with coordination of their movements, or imbalance.

Such is the case with Abrams.

She said the MRI scan revealed that a tumour is growing close to her spine, and it has already infected the spinal cord. “My entire life changed within hours,” the young woman told Guyana Times last week.

She said the doctors informed her that the tumour was pressing against the spine, and according to her, she could not believe what was happening. “I did surgery to clean the infected area, and they also removed the tumour,” she said as she praised the staff of the GPHC. The surgery was done on November 15, 2016, and thereafter she spent a month in the hospital. In December that year, she returned to Moruca in a wheelchair to face a new reality and make adjustments to a lifestyle that would become challenging.

“So, 2017 started with me being unable to walk, and I

Getting back to normal In terms of getting back to normal, she said, she isn’t the first person to be diagnosed with meningitis in Guyana, and there are persons who recovered from the ailment.

She also said that she has heard positive stories about persons who had suffered from the ailment.

“The doctors told me I will walk back, but it will take time.

I just have to keep exercising to keep my body active (and) to get my muscles strengthened back,” she explained.

She said her siblings, numbering 7, would assist her around the home, and she noted that she relies on her family members for everything that involves physically moving around.

“I am just like a baby again.

Everything I use to do, now I have to depend on them to do every single thing,” she noted.

Ashnie Abrams has said she is hoping she would fully recover from her medical condition and be able to walk again

had become a wheelchairuser,” she said.

Prior to her diagnosis, Abrams worked at the village of Waramuri, the place of her birth and upbringing, and was attached to the primary school as a CSO. She subsequently moved to Georgetown to make preparations to rewrite several CSEC subjects in order to enhance her qualifications, then her life changed.

She recalled that at the beginning of 2016, “I was a normal person, doing normal things. I used to play cricket and football, I would swim, and I had dreams of becoming a nurse.”

Weeks prior to her hospitalisation, Abrams said, she had experienced a few bouts of back pain, and recalled having an abscess on the neck. She said that was the only sign she had that something was amiss. She said soon after the abscess was removed, she felt a pain in her neck and her lower back.

Support from parents She said that as the situation evolved during the latter part of 2016, her parents became worried, and while in a state of shock, experienced many sleepless nights wondering what really had happened to her.

Abrams recalled that her father took up the mantle of playing an integral role in taking her to and from the hospital. She said that during the initial days of treatment, she did physiotherapy sessions at the Kumaka District Hospital in Moruca, and it proved expensive because she travelled to and from the medical institution by car.

On some occasions, she would go by boat. “My father would be the one to lift me out of the car or boat and to the hospital, and he would do the same when we (were returning) home,” she said.

The determined Abrams said she returned to the

Coastland in 2019 and registered for physiotherapy sessions at the West Demerara Regional Hospital.

She travelled to that hospital from Tushen, East Bank Essequibo by taxi once a week for treatment, and on some occasions she would practise the movements at home.

“They showed me what to do, and so I would do it at home,” she said, noting that it is basically exercising her lower

Ashnie Abrams has said that prior to being diagnosed with meningitis, she lived a “normal life” - as seen here during an outing in the National Park

body.

Abrams researched her condition in detail, and noted that the sessions were done in order to strengthen her muscles once more, so that she could eventually walk again. With a smile, she recalled that, one day late in 2019, three years after

her diagnosis, she climbed out of her wheelchair and made a step. She said she was advised by the doctor to avoid lifting any weight, or even undertaking any minute movement which would place strain on her damaged spine.

Her spine is still damaged, and it’s a nerve issue which

The wheelchair and mental adjustment “The movement in the wheelchair can be tough,” Abrams has said. She noted that, at the moment, she can make baby steps whenever she is travelling. Those steps are mainly from her wheelchair into the taxi.

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28 FEATURE “One day I will walk again” - Meningitis patient...

SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

“They usually lift me into the boat or car, but I try to make small steps when I have to board a car. They have to be very careful when they lift me,” she said, as she pointed out that her spine has to be treated very delicately.

As regards the wheelchair, Abrams said she spent many nights thinking about her future, and adjusting her mind to the fact that she would be moving around assisted.

“It really bothered me a lot, because I am a young person, and I used to be maintaining myself, and I used to do everything,” she explained.

In addition to the mental pressure, Abrams has said, she has studied her parents a

the moment, she is in need of a wheelchair as well as sanitary supplies; and according to her, she would express gratitude to anyone who is willing to aid her financially, as her condition

energy and mental strength to study in the medical field.

To pass the time, Abrams has learnt how to sew and to knit items such as handbags and other accessories. During this interview she displayed a number of the hand-crafted items she has made.

Abrams has said that, at

hoping for the best,” she declared.

Anyone who is willing to reach out to Ashnie Abrams can contact her on her mobile phone at 661-7786.

HEALTH TIPS

To pass the time, Abrams has been making various crafted items, including this hand-woven bracelet

lot, and noted that while they are not well-off, they used whatever money they made to assist her. “My father spent a lot to get me back to where I am currently,” she added.

She still has hopes of becoming a nurse, and according to this determined young woman, she has the

has made her immovable. She has said that while her story is sad, she is upbeat and remains optimistic that she would walk again.

“It’s a sad story, but I am

FROM PAGE 27

LOW SEX DRIVE IN MEN

FROM PAGE 26

* Stress Being distracted by situations or periods of high pressure leads to a decrease in sexual desire. This is

because stress can disrupt hormone levels. The arteries can narrow in times of stress.

This narrowing restricts blood flow and potentially causes ED. One study published in Scientific Research and Essays supported the notion that stress has a direct effect on sexual problems in both men and women.

Another study of veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) found that the stress disorder increased their risk of sexual dysfunction more than threefold.

Stress is hard to avoid.

Relationship problems, divorce, facing the death of a loved one, financial worries, a new baby, or a busy work environment are just some of the life events that can greatly affect the desire for sex.

Stress management techniques such as breathing exercises, meditation, and talking to a therapist may help.

In one study, for example, men who were newly diagnosed with ED showed significant improvement in erectile function scores after participating in an 8-week stress management programme. * Low self-esteem Self-esteem is defined as the general opinion a person has about their own self. Low self-esteem, low confidence, and poor body image can take a toll on emotional health and wellbeing.

Feeling unattractive or undesirable would likely put a damper on sexual encounters.

Not liking what is seen in the mirror can even make persons want to avoid having sex altogether.

Low self-esteem may also cause anxiety about sexual performance, which can lead to issues with ED and reduced sexual desire.

Over time, self-esteem issues can result in larger mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, and drug or alcohol abuse — all of which have been linked to low libido. * Too little (or too much) exercise Too little or too much exercise can also be responsible for low sex drive in men. Too little exercise (or none at all) can lead to a range of health problems that can affect sexual desire and arousal.

Getting regular exercise may reduce the risk for chronic conditions such as obesity, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes, all of which are associated with low libido.

Moderate exercise is known to lower cortisol levels at night and reduce stress, which can help increase sex drive.

On the other hand, overexercising has also been shown to affect sexual health.

In one study, higher levels of chronic, intense, and lengthy endurance training on a regular basis were strongly associated with decreased libido scores in men. * Alcohol Heavy alcohol-drinking, or more than 14 mixed drinks in a week, has also been linked to a decrease in testosterone production.

Over a long period of time, excessive amounts of alcohol can reduce the sex drive.

The Cleveland Clinic recommends that men who consume more than three or more alcoholic beverages regularly should consider drinking less. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest that an average adult male should have two or fewer alcoholic beverages daily; any more than this can lead to long-term health deterioration. * Drug use In addition to alcohol, the use of tobacco, marijuana, and illicit drugs such as opiates has also been connected to a decrease in testosterone production. This can result in a lack of sexual desire.

Smoking has also been found to have a negative impact on sperm production and sperm movement. * Physical and emotional side effects of low libido A decreased sex drive can be very unsettling for men.

Low libido can lead to a vicious cycle of physical and emotional side effects, including ED — the inability to maintain an erection long enough to have satisfactory sex.

ED may cause a man to experience anxiety around sex. This can lead to tension and conflicts between him and his partner; which may, in turn, lead to fewer sexual encounters and more related issues. Failure to perform due to ED can trigger feelings of depression, self-esteem issues, and poor body image.

Treating low libido often depends on treating the underlying issue. If low libido is caused by an underlying health condition, switching medications may be needed. If the low libido has psychological causes, they may need to visit a therapist for relationship counselling.

FEATURE

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From being school dropout to graduating with bachelor’s degree in Public Management …Chandroutie Barker tells of her rough journey to success

Chandroutie and her two sons, Joel (left) and Mark (right) University graduate Chandroutie Barker

By Shane Marks

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handroutie Barker, a 42-year-old mother of three, would next month be graduating from the University of Guyana with a bachelor’s degree in Public Management. The road she took to get to this stage was not an easy one; she has repeatedly had to overcome obstacles with tears, dedication and hard work.

Chandroutie ’s life first took a tragic turn for the worse when both of her parents died while she was just eleven years old. This became a determining factor for the life ahead of young Chandroutie.

Described as the worst thing that has happened to her: having to grow up without the love, care, and attention of a mother and father, young Chandroutie’s life quickly became too much for any child to handle.

After her parents died, the young girl was placed in the care of her older sister, during which she faced many hardships.

At just 13 years old, Chandroutie’s impoverished lifestyle forced her to drop out of school. This broke her heart, especially after she had written the then Common Entrance Examinations (now known as the National Grade Six Assessment) and had received a placement at a Grade A school as a result of her outstanding performance.

Having been out of school for three full years at sixteen, Chandroutie’s family decided it was time for her to get married. It was a decision she wasn’t pleased with, but she had no say in the matter.

Sixteen-year-old Chandroutie, who had her whole life ahead of her, was forced to marry a man she didn’t even know that well, and wasn’t in love with. Just like that, her dream of falling in love and getting married to a man she loved was taken away from her as suddenly as her parents had been taken away.

The marriage was toxic and abusive because the man she was wedded to was a drug addict who never cared for her. During the marriage, Chandroutie was often in a state wherein people scorned her, because some days she ate and other days she had nothing to eat at all. And she couldn’t enjoy any of the fancy things that people her age were enjoying. She was so poor that her wardrobe consisted of only two dresses and a pair of rubber slippers.

The young woman went on to give birth to three children, who likewise suffered in poverty because Chandroutie was at a loss to provide for them. She stayed in the relationship despite the abuse, which included being burnt by her husband with lit cigarette butts. Years later, she finally

mustered the courage to walk away from the relationship, and she divorced her husband.

On her departure, she took the only thing she was thankful the relationship had borne – her three children.

At that point, her life was simply nothing short of a mess. She had neither mother nor father, and her family didn’t care for her. She had no qualifications and no job.

She was in a deep state of depression, and only through prayers and God’s love was she able to get over that phase of her life and move on.

Chandroutie decided it was time for her to get a job, so she started applying to different institutions for employment. Luck came soon after when she was employed at Banks DIH Limited as a cleaner. She worked there for just over three years before she got another job, where she met a man to whom she got married solely because she had nowhere for her and the children to live.

It was not until Chandroutie had secured a job as a cleaner at the Bank of Guyana that the fire was ignited within her to be the best version of herself. Chandroutie started taking Caribbean Secondary Examination Council (CSEC) classes to do one of the many things she was deprived of as a child: getting a sound education. She passed five of the six subjects she wrote, and was soon promoted from a cleaner to clerical staff at the Central Bank.

Now with a good job and the ability to provide food and clothing for her children, Chandroutie was able to give free rein to her thirst for higher education, and she applied to the University of Guyana (UG) and was accepted into the Public Management Diploma programme. After completing two years and meeting all the requirements for this programme, she was then accepted to pursue her Bachelor of Social Science degree in Public Management.

Chandroutie has elucidated that completing her four years at UG was not easy.

During her final year of university, one day before one of her final exams, her husband of 14 years walked out on her without any explanation.

Chandroutie said his sudden exit reduced her to a complete wreck, but through the tears, she wrote her exams the next day.

To her astonishment, her husband then served her with divorce papers a few days later. This broke her to the point where she had lost weight, and her discombobulated mental state could’ve gotten her fired, because she was unable to focus at work.

“Despite the support I was given by close friends and my children, deep within I refused to accept what was happening to my marriage. I was stubbornly holding on

to my commitment, to the point where I lost 45lbs from the stress and agony. My biggest support during this time was my boss, who was understanding and helped me to cope like a soldier. I was not focusing, to the point where I could have easily lost my job and my sanity,” she related.

However, this resilient mother persevered, being determined to graduate. And she did! Chandroutie was able to successfully complete her degree, and will be graduating in February with a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.1 (credit).

Meanwhile, as she advanced herself academically, Chandroutie has been promoted several times on the job. From the position of Clerical Staff, she has been promoted to Clerk, then Senior Clerk. Today, she is the Assistant Principal (ag) at the Bank of Guyana.

Having confronted a rough childhood, growing up in poverty, dropping out of school, being forced into an abusive marriage, Chandroutie persevered through it all, knowing exactly what she wanted out of her life. And just by having that knowledge, it was enough to motivate her. Her experience and perseverance have inspired and motivated her three children, who are all currently pursuing their education at the tertiary level.

Through her story, Chandroutie wishes to encourage people that, once you believe in yourself, you can accomplish anything.

Chandroutie and her daughter Jessica

Chandroutie’s story mimics the words of American Author Zig Ziglar, “It’s not where you start, but where you finish that counts.”

30 NEWS

SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

All analog X-ray machines being replaced with digital versions – Health Minister …as GPHC’S capacity enhanced with new machines

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he Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony, has announced that the Government has decided to retire analogue X-ray machines which are to be replaced with new advanced and digitalised X-ray machines.

“In our systems right now we still have a lot of analogue machines…we still doing that in some of the sites and that’s creating a lot of problems because of the films and it’s so time consuming, so that has been a challenge…we have taken another decision and that is that, we are going to retire those machines.”

“And we are going to go into the digital era where all the X-ray machines that we’re buying would be digital and for the same reason…in terms of getting the images quickly, accessing it and being able to make to timely diagnosis.”

“We have procured or in

the process of procuring another 3, such machines so they will be coming in and going to some of the other regional hospitals.”

The Minister made this announcement at the handing over of two such machines as well as another portable X-ray machines to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

“We spent some time looking at how we can standardise X-ray machines in the country and we had a technical committee that sat for several weeks debating, contemplating on the different types of machines in the world and which would be the best and so forth.”

“They have advised that we should now use three or four brands and they have recommended this, and the reason why is that over the years we have seen X-ray machines being bought but

within a year or two they are not working,” he said.

The two Siemens X-ray machine and one portable Elara max X-ray machine were procured in June last year at the cost of $113.8M and was officially handed over to the GPHC Saturday morning.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the GPHC, Robbie Rambarran, explained that these machines are highly digitalised and suited for the emergency use.

“We started we reviewed many brands of X-ray machines… we looked at after sale service and support, we looked at spare parts availabilities, we looked at if they had the capabilities to respond in an emergency and also train our staff… because many years we had this type of machines (Siemens) and its one of the gold standards in healthcare and, the machine is

suited for the volume. We do lots of X-rays here almost 300 different types of X-rays per day.”

He added that these types of equipment are highly digital, “It’s not like long ago, most patient will not go home or will not get an actual X-ray, when we finish shooting an exposure it is automatically via the internet or via Wi-Fi connection or some cases it’s loaded to a pact system which is a digital system.”

He said these scans can now be transferred to anywhere in hospital even to other external facilities.

“So, if a doctor from Enmore sends here for a specific X-ray, we don’t have to give the patient a film, it automatically loads and they click on their computer there and they can access it,” he added.

Rambarran said too that there was previously a shortage of some X-ray ser-

vices at the hospital which has now been eliminated by the acquisition of the new machines.

“In February of last year when I re-joined in this institution it was immediately brought to my attention that there is an absence of X-ray services here…we had a few X-ray machines here, there was G brand one it was acquired since 2002, then a Siemens was acquired since 2015 and then there was a Fluoro that was acquired 2014 and installed 2015.”

“But these went down and the reason why it went down is because in the latter part of 2015 there was no preventative maintenance so going into 2016, we had significant problems.

Modern, digitalised equipment Meanwhile, Minister Anthony explained that the new regional hospitals that have been announced to be built from this year’s budget will also comprise of modern and digitalised equipment not only for X-rays but other services such as CT scans.

“You would have heard in the budget that we spoke

about new regional hospitals and there are 6 new ones that are going to build on new sites and there are two new hospitals that will be built on existing sites meaning at West Demerara and Bartica.”

“These buildings when they are completed, it is not just the building, but they will have a new section for imaging, a new section for laboratories, in patient, accident and emergency outpatient and so forth.”

“And in the imaging section, all of the equipment that are going to be there is going to be digital, some of the modern piece of equipment and not only to X-rays but we’ll be adding CT scans and some other types of imaging equipment.”

The Minister added that 200 million dollars in works will be done at the Festival City Polyclinic which falls under the GPHC’s control, to ensure that they have such modern and necessary equipment and to reduce the patient load going to the GPHC. In this year’s GPHC budget, an additional 300 million dollars will be spent on equipment for the said hospital.

Incorrect helmets contribute to motorcyclists’ severe injuries – Police

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ccidents on the roadways that involve motorcyclists and result in death, injury, or disability are sometimes due to the incorrect selection and use of safety helmets, Police have said.

Earlier this week, Divisional Traffic Officer of Division 4A – (Georgetown), Deputy Superintendent Timothy Williams, during a recent programme hosted by the Guyana Police Force advised that motorcyclists wear the correct safety helmets.

“We are still noticing a number of persons riding the motorcycles with their helmets not properly affixed…some are using industrial helmets. That is not the required helmet for motorcyclists on the road,” he explained.

Labelling requirements are outlined by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS), and provide guidance for the selection of quality helmets.

The GNBS has facilitated the development

of the National Standard Specification for labelling of commodities – Part 17: Labelling of protective helmets for road users.

The standard can assist motorcyclists in differentiating between helmets which meet specific standards for protection on impact and the ability to remain secured on the wearer’s head.

Superintendent Williams also noted that the Police have even found persons towing children without a safety helmet, and that has to stop.

“That is a matter of concern for us…”, he underscored.

Just recently, the GNBS was advising manufacturers and distributors of helmets for the road to acquire a copy of the standard to ensure those offered for sale meet the labelling specification, which guides users.

It was also advised by the Standard that motorcyclists also need to ensure that helmets are designed to meet their individual needs for protection.

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Eccles-to-Mandela road

4-lane highway to be completed by February month-end – Housing Minister

Housing Minister Collin Croal

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he four-lane highway from Eccles to Mandela, which is being constructed under the auspices of the Ministry of Housing, is slated to be completed by February monthend. This is according to Housing Minister Collin Croal.

During an interview with this publication on the sidelines of the budget presentation, the Housing Minister spoke of the four-lane Eccles to Mandela highway. Works

on the highway have been progressing since last year.

According to Minister Croal, it will conclude by next month.

“Directly in terms of housing, of course you know there is money allocated for us to continue our infrastructure works. That is for areas in keeping with our allocation exercise. Then you also have as part of that, the road connectivity to continue our four-lane.”

“We’ve paid the mobilisation advance and that is from Eccles to Great Diamond. You have the final set of payments to be made on the current four-lane from Mandela to Eccles.

That will be completed by the end of next month. And so, within the first quarter, persons can be able to access (the road),” Minister Croal explained.

Minister Croal also spoke of the Government’s target of 15,000 house lots for the year, which will add to the 10,000 distributed last year,

in explaining the pace of infrastructure works. In light of this, he lauded the $552.9 million budget.

“Certainly, I am happy about what is happening here. I’m happy for the continuation of our housing programme. And certainly, you will understand our momentum that we have a target of 50,000 house lots. What we’re aiming for, so by the end of this year we’ll be halfway there, 25,000.”

Work on constructing the $2.3 billion four-lane highway from Eccles to Mandela started In April 2021.

Contracts were signed with six contractors and were supposed to have been completed by December 2021.

However, inclement weather resulted in the project, which will be important in alleviating traffic build up on the East Bank, being delayed.

The Eccles to Mandela four-lane project is the second phase of the OgleDiamond bypass project and

An artist’s impression of the Eccles-to-Mandela Avenue four-lane road

is intended to tie in with the overall four-lane project currently being built. These projects are part of the India-funded Bypass Road Project which would link the East Bank Demerara corridor to the East Coast of Demerara, creating a new highway in the backlands.

The Indian Government

had provided a US$50 million Line of Credit (LOC) for the road link that was initially slated for Ogle, ECD, to Diamond. Under the previous Government, the project was at a standstill for several years.

The President Dr Irfaan Ali-led People’s Progressive Party (PPP/C)

Administration has since redesigned the project into three phases to fit the LOC. It will now run from Ogle to Haags Bosch at Eccles in the first phase, then from Eccles to Diamond, and finally from Diamond to Timehri to connect to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA). (G3)

32 NEWS Jamaican banks warned about “cartel” policies SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

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harging that Jamaica’s largest commercial banks are giving the free-market system a “bad name” and behaving like a cartel, Justice Minister Delroy Chuck said here Thursday that the Government could be forced to pass laws limiting banking fees and charges.

Chuck told justices of the peace at a commissioning ceremony that legislation to limit bank earnings ran afoul of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) Government’s outlook in defence of the free market.

However, the justice minister said, while it was “the last thing we would want to do”, if the banks organise themselves “into a cartel and set fees”, then the Government has to intervene.

Said Chuck: “…Because we run a free-market system it means competi-

creasing fees they are providing the worst service in the history of banking in this country… Every bank you pass you see lines outside and, while the service is depreciating, instead of hiring more staff, they are laying off staff, instead of [opening] more banks they are closing banks. I can’t understand how the banks in Jamaica can behave like this. They are making billions of dollars in [service

Justice Minister Delroy Chuck

tion must take over. The banks are the best example of a free market, but in Jamaica they give the free-market system a bad name … they seem to be operating like a cartel… so you get the same sort of costs [and terms] whichever bank you go…”

At the commissioning ceremony, and in a fol-

low-up interview, Chuck said the situation was particularly offensive because of the extreme hardships many Jamaicans were facing at a time when banks were giving very poor service and making billions of dollars in profits.

A clearly indignant Chuck told his audience that “while banks are in-

fees] and the service is the worst…”

Chuck’s comments followed those of Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Finance Minister Nigel Clarke earlier this week chastising banks for their approach. Holness told business leaders that “it would be iniquitous to increase banking fees and other prices on consumers at this time”.

And Clarke suggested

that bankers were “tonedeaf” to the circumstances of their customers, especially the most vulnerable.

The finance minister questioned the rationale of banks charging customers to use automated teller machines (ATMs) when they had introduced that method “to graduate customers from inside the banking hall…” (Jamaica Observer)

US East Coast blanketed by ‘bombogenesis’ snowstorm T

he US East Coast is being battered by the first major blizzard to hit the region in four years.

Five states declared an emergency hours before heavy snow and hurricane-force winds blasted the area.

Experts warn of “historic” snowfall in some places and flood warnings have been issued near the coast.

More than 5,000 US flights have been cancelled.

As the storm arrived, more than 116,000 households across Massachusetts were without power.

Forecasters say there is a chance the storm, known as a Nor’easter, will blanket the Boston area with up to 2ft (61cm) of snow, and up to 1ft (30cm) of snow has already fallen in parts of New York.

The current record of 27.6in (70cm) within 24 hours was set in 2003.

Gusts as strong as 6075mph (96-120km/h) have been forecast along the coastline. Experts say the storm will undergo bombogenesis, meaning that colder air is expected to mix with

A snow plough moving snow in Cohasset, Massachusetts

warmer sea air, leading to a swift drop in atmospheric pressure. The process leads to a so-called bomb cyclone.

“Travel should be restricted to emergencies only,” warned the National Weather Service (NWS) in Boston.

“If you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle.”

The powerful storm began to hit the country’s coast in the early hours of

Saturday morning, with inches of snowfall already blanketing a number of states.

Bryce Williams, a meteorologist based in the state, told the New York Times the heaviest would hit there

by Saturday evening before conditions clear up across the weekend.

“If you don’t have to be out and about, we’re trying to say: Stay home until Sunday,” he told the newspaper. (Excerpt from BBC)

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Berbice business community pleased with Budget 2022

Berbice Chamber of Commerce and Development Association President, Ryan Alexander

By Andrew Carmichael

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ections of the Berbice business community have commended the 2022 national budget proposals which were presented to the National Assembly on Wednesday by Senior Minister with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, saying that it will benefit the entire society.

By far New Amsterdam is the oldest town in Guyana and is considered the capital of Region Six which has two other towns, but over the past decade, development in the town has not been at the same rate as some of the other parts of the country.

Against this backdrop, business persons are of the view that while the budget is Guyana’s largest, persons must take advantage of the opportunities which will be created as a result of what is being provided in the proposed budget.

Chief Executive Officer for A Ally and Sons, Fizal Alli is of the view that the 2022 proposed budget is one that is likely to bring benefits to persons throughout the country.

According to Ali, with increases in old age pensions and public assistance, it would provide more money to the economy. He is of the view that when more money is in the economy there will be a better standing of living for Guyanese generally.

However, while referring to the budget as a good one, Ali said he would have liked to see the threshold be taken a bit higher and pensioners receive more money.

Meanwhile, businesswoman Samantha Reid referred to the budget as being historical and ground-breaking. She noted that it is a very exciting time to be a Guyanese. She said the budget proposals reveal an economic revolution for Guyana this year as the country will be on a trajectory for rapid growth in infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, and sports.

“The budget is in tandem with the Local Content Bill as well as the Natural Resource Fund. The budget not only caters for the

oil sector but it caters for all sectors. I am eagerly waiting to see the $5 billion that has been allocated for the vulnerable groups in society,” she said while making mention that the Ministry of Sport also has huge sums allocated in the budget this year.

“The budget also allows for economic growth for young entrepreneurs, young people; everybody that is a Guyanese that is here. It focuses a lot on local content even with the reduction of taxes and the school children grants – everybody has something to get from this budget,” Reid said.

Businessman Tule Persaud Udit believes if implemented, the proposals as outlined in the budget will help to boost the economy.

“Especially the cash grant and uniform voucher will help the children. I believe that this will help them boost the economy and put money back into the hands of the working-class people and also the business people would also be benefiting.

I think it is a very good budget,” he said.

President of the Berbice Chamber of Commerce and Development Association Ryan Alexander explained that several of the proposals outlined by Dr Ashni Singh were proposed by the Private Sector.

“When we spoke about the initiatives that should be in the budget, we couldn’t say if they were already in the budget or if it was some of the things that we put forward and he studied and decided to incorporate into the budget. We are happy as a Private Sector and the Berbice Chamber of Commerce by extension, to see a budget that [provides] opportunity across the board for all and in all the sectors.”

Alexander is of the view that old age pension could have been further increased but nevertheless, said that he is looking forward to incremental increases in future budgets for pensioners, admitting that there are indirect financial benefits for that section of the society.

“We all know that the Private Sector is the engine of growth and the engine of growth is the arm that provides employment.

We have always been touted as the biggest employer in Guyana. Once there are opportunities to enhance and create more business in the country, we will see automatically a need for more labour force – human resources, which is job creation and this would allow persons to be earning. And that is a good sign. I guess that with the local content law in place, the budget has been so tailored to ensure local capacity is ramped up,” he added.

Opposition

Politician and religious leader, Phillip Rose

Meanwhile, politician and religious leader Phillip Rose, while noting that the budget proposals give prospects of a great transformation for Guyana, said he wants to see the Opposition – APNU/AFC – act as opposition for all Guyana and not for any particular ethnic group.

He said the budget proposes to provide benefits for the working class and looks forward to trade unions meeting with the Government as it relates to salary increases which were

Businesswoman Samantha Reid

not mentioned in the budget proposal presentation.

“Let the Unions be involved because it is time now for them to act on behalf of the public servants.

However, most public servants have children and the other packages for the children will benefit public servants.”

Rose said everyone should be pleased that there are no new taxes in the budget.

“This is a hallmark of the People’s Progress Party Government, not putting on new taxes on the poor people.”

34 NEWS Ministry seeing new batch of Young Influencers T SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

he Human Services and Social Security Ministry has issued a call for responses from persons interested in becoming a part of the next Young Influencers programme via its social media pages.

The Ministry is currently seeking out 25 diverse and dynamic youths between the ages of 15 and 25 years who had applied to be included in the programme via the Google form that is available on the Ministry’s social media platforms.

The Young Influencers programme is geared at encouraging and empowering young people to make meaningful impacts in their communities through their skillsets and talents, while reflecting characteristics of a positive role model and ambassador for young people.

Once selected, the selectees would get the opportunity to work along with the Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, who con-

ceptualised this programme, to tackle social ills and participate in impactful projects for a year.

According to Andrew Hing from Region 4 (Demerara-Mahaica), who was part of the inaugural batch of Young Influencers, “As a Young Influencer, I got exposed to training that enlightened me on social issues and ways to deal with them. It was very interesting to learn about conflict resolution, abuse, and so much more from institutions that actually handle these situations.”

He related that, “Public speaking training was one of my favourites, as I needed to come out of my shell.

We were also provided with resources to escalate situations should we encounter someone facing these issues.

I would encourage anyone that is interested to be part of this incredible journey.

You definitely will not regret it.

“Being on the Youth Unfiltered show also helped

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud (in pink), sharing a light moment with some of the first batch of Young Influencers during one of their outreaches in 2021

me to open up about topics affecting young people unscripted,” the Young Influencer has said.

Junisha Johnny of Region Nine (Upper Takutu–Upper Essequibo) shared, "Being a member of the Young Influencers programme 2021 was a great way to

gain valuable life experience as well as skills which will stay with me throughout life. The ability gained, to empathise with a group of youths who often have very different needs, will be a huge help in the future, whether in the workplace or in the home. Therefore, I en-

courage youths out there to join, and become a Young Influencer. Let’s pave the way and give Guyanese youths a better future.”

Young applicants can expect a journey filled with opportunities: from speaking on international platforms to learning about the

Ministry’s services and social ills, to community outreaches and projects, to television and talent expression forays, to peer engagements and education, and participation in a number of programmes.

In order to be considered, candidates would be required to show their skills by conceptualising a promotional video piece on one of the Ministry’s existing programmes. The candidates would also have to detail some of the work they have done within their communities.

Some of the traits these Young Influencers must possess are: good communication skills; social media savviness and influence; eloquence; strong morals and ethics; and a passion for volunteering and community work.

Application deadline is February 18, 2022, and the application form can be completed via link: https:// forms.gle/ur5nJS5riLpEoNAZ8

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World “It’s an exciting moment not just for Guyana” Wetlands but for entire Caribbean – Caricom’s Dr Bristol Day P

022 will mark the first year that the United Nations recognizes World Wetlands Day as an environmental observance on its calendar, although the day has been celebrated for more than two decades. Even more important than the day itself, is the recognition of the ever growing importance of wetlands to the planet’s and our survival. Wetlands, or areas that are either permanently or seasonally flooded, not only help to absorb carbon dioxide and regulate global climate, they perform a wide range of services – from protection against storms and other natural hazards, habitats for other animals which we depend on, to numerous livelihood opportunities. The theme for the 2022 edition is Wetlands Action for People and Nature, and it highlights the importance of actions that ensure that wetlands are conserved and sustainably used. It’s an appeal to invest financial, human and political capital to save the world’s wetlands from disappearing, and to restore those we have degraded.

Why celebrate World Wetlands Day? Nearly 90% of the world’s wetlands have been degraded since the 1700s, and we are losing wetlands three times faster than forests. It is urgent that we raise national and global awareness about wetlands in order to reverse their rapid loss and encourage actions to conserve and restore them. World Wetlands Day is the ideal time to increase people’s understanding of these ecosystems, and is open to everyone – from international organizations, governments, to children, youth, media, community groups, decision makers and individuals.

Wetlands in Guyana Our country is home to a wide array of ecosystems, some of which are wetlands, including the Barima Mora passage in Region One, the Iwokrama rainforest and the North Rupununi Wetlands in Region Nine.

These combined wetlands are home to more than 400 species of fish, the highest diversity of fishes in the world for areas of similar size, is found in the Rupununi wetlands. These areas are also home to some of the world’s endangered giants – the Arapaima (largest freshwater fish), the giant river otter ( largest of the 13 otter species), the black caiman, giant river turtles, the harpy eagle ( largest bird of prey), the jaguar (largest cat in South America) and hundreds of other plants and animals.

Did you know? During a recent study of the Barima Mora passage, a total of 139 species were documented during the survey, of which 18 species are of conservation concern.

Here’s a few ways you can join in the efforts: o Use pesticides and fertilizers sparingly and opt for more organic remedies; o Avoid concreting your yard so that groundwater can be recharged; o Report illegal clearing of mangroves and other types of forests; o Use laundry and dishwasher detergents that are phosphate-free. Since the water from most washing machines and dishwashers drains into water supplies, it can contaminate local wetlands. Avoid purchasing any detergents that contain phosphates because they encourage algae growth, which can suffocate local wildlife and destroy lakes and streams; o Reduce pollution, especially solid waste by disposing of your waste in the right way; and o Volunteer your time to wetland protection and learn more about the value of wetlands. If you have a free weekend, search online or call your local government to find out if any organizations are doing clean-up projects.

Offer your assistance if you’re available, and help them by removing trash and waste from the wetlands to protect the wildlife and ecosystem.

Sources https://www.worldwetlandsday.org/about https://www.wikihow.com/Save-the-Wetlands

You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O Communications Department, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN, or email us at: eit.epaguyana@gmail. com, follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

rogramme Manager for Human Resource Development at the Caricom Secretariat, Dr Laurette Bristol has congratulated Guyana’s Education Ministry on completing the series that has been designed by Guyanese for Guyanese teachers and students.

Dr. Bristol who joined the launch via Zoom said that the intentions and aspirations for the Atlantic Reader series meet the needs of literacy at the local level and extends the integration agenda of the Caribbean which is to foster the ideal Caribbean person through education.

“So Honourable Minister, to you and your team, congratulations and I want to encourage you and your team and the officials and the teachers to continue to share this best practice and the products which have emerged with the rest of the Caribbean,” she remarked. Dr. Bristol said that

Samples of the Atlantic Reader series on display

the CARICOM Secretariat as a regional partner is excited to continue to be part of this journey with the Ministry to realize the aims and goals of the Human Resource Development Strategy 2030. It’s an exciting moment not just for Guyana but for the entire Caribbean,” Dr Bristol noted.

The Atlantic Reader

Series Books one to six is a series of locally produced textbooks designed to accelerate learners’ literacy acquisition at the Primary level. Soon, all Primary School pupils will receive their copy of the reader.

The Education Ministry said that it sees the series as a critical part of our arsenal to combat challenges that have historically

affected our children’s ability to excel in literacy. The Atlantic Reader series is a reader/workbook combination intended to contribute to the overarching goal of producing literate children by Grade four. In addition to the printed copies, the books are available on the Ministry of Education’s website at www.education. gov.gy.

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GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022

Jonathan Van Lange during his matchup

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Krystian Sahadeo had the better of Niran Bissu

Chelsea Edghill getting in some practice before the action

he Senior National Table Tennis Championships being played at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall have generated some fiery quarterfinal action as players aimed to book their spots in the final.

In the “C” Class Open Draw, for which many players turned up, Vicente Henery, Saalih Rahim, Walter Marcus and Ishaka Jackman were deemed lucky enough to secure their spots in the semifi- Thuraia Thomas defeated Samira Sukhai nals.

Henery was able to defeat Moore advanced from group three, while Umar Percival in his first match 3-1 (11,11, Kyle Chung and Terrence Rausch advanced -5-9); Saalih Rahim defeated Jasmine from group four.

Billingy 3-1 (8, -9,7,9); Walter Marcus Of those that advanced, Jonathan trounced Malachi Moor 3-1(-8,13,7,10), and Van Lange defeated Terrence Rausch 4-0 Ishaka Jackman crushed Abdool Rahim 3-0 (15,5,7,8); Krystian Sahadeo whipped Niran (3,7,8).

Bissu 4-1 (8,10,11, -6,10); Kyle Chung beat Of the four groups In the U21 Men’s Malachi Moore 4-1 (8,10,11, -6,10); and Colin Singles, the top two players from each group Wong defeated Saalih Rahim 4-0 (4,5,9,10). advanced. Jonathan Van Lange and Saalih In the 21-Years-and-Under ladies’ tourRahim advanced from group one, while nament, four ladies battled it out in the Colin Wong and Niran Bissu advanced from group stage on day 1: Jasmine Billingy, group two; Krystian Sahadeo and Malachi Thuraia Thomas, Crystal Melville and

37

Jasmine Billingy defeated Crystal Melville

Samara Sukhai. Of the four ladies in that category, only one could be determined winner, as the format being played was round robin.

Jasmine Billingy was dominant in her two matches, as she fended off Crystal Melville 3-2 (-12, 11, -8, 9, 3) and Samara Sukhai 3-0 (10,6,3), thus securing four

points.

Thuraia Thomas also won her three games, dominating Melville 3-0 (8,10,4) and Sukhai 3-0 (10,6,3). At the close of play, Billingy and Thomas were on four points each, while Melville and Sukhai were on two points each.

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GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022

n a continuous effort to promote ‘clean sports’, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, through the National Sports Commission (NSC), will be footing the cost for one random drug per selective National Sports Association and Federation.

Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, made the declaration yesterday. Ninvalle said the decision came following much conversation with associations, while also taking into consideration that the NSC is cognizant of the fact that the costs for drug testing of athletes across the various sport disci-

plines is prohibitive.

In explaining the Ministry’s position, the DoS explained that the testing of athletes by the sports bodies have been a constant challenge over the years. He added that the NSC and the Ministry of Sport is aiming for the holistic growth of national athletes hence the latest move.

“We would like to see holistic development of our athletes as well as them being aware of what is expected. It is only fair that our associations and federations breathe with some degree of certainty when it comes to this very important aspect of sports – drug testing,” Ninvalle said.

According to the former Member of Parliament, the NSC and the Ministry’s intention is to embrace International best practices as much as possible.

We want to do everything within our power to ensure that our national athletes are best

possible candidate to represent us with as little flaws as possible,” the DoS said.

“What the NSC will be do is provide funding for one random drug test during national competition.

Of course, this is not going to be for all sports disciplines, but we want to give the associations the ability and resources to do what’s rights internationally.

They must get accustomed to such practice,” Ninvalle reiterated.

He also highlighted the need for athletes to be educated regarding what they are allowed to use as supplements and even as medication.

“Athletes also need to educate themselves on what is required of them in and out of competition with regards to what they put into their bodies. So, it’s not just discipline in how you train but also what you consume.”

Dr Karen Pilgrim is Guyana’s doping control officer and Director of the Caribbean Regional Anti-Doping Organization (RADO) which is by Patrick Werleman of Aruba.

Over the years, not many athletes from

Director of Sports Steve Ninvalle

Guyana have tested positive for banned substances under the guidelines of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), but those found guilty were sanctioned and served their time away from their respective sport.

BFA donates to secondary school SBA project

P

resident of the Bartica Football Association (BFA), Alden Marslowe, on Thursday made a presentation to the school-based assessment (SBA) project of students attached to the Three Miles Secondary School.

For their SBA assignment, the Physical Education Class planned and executed a futsal competition among their peers, with students performing the various duties of officials that are necessary for the successful running of a football competition. As a form of encouragement, the BFA donated two balls and a number of medals to the project.

Most of the young players (males and females) who make up the football clubs at Bartica are students attending the two local secondary schools.

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39

GCB lauds the leadership of His Excellency President Dr Irfaan Ali … commends Minister of Sport Ramson for his proactive approach to sports development

T

he Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) hension of the value and magnitude is high in praise of the historic of sports to the growth and development of Guyana. This is indeed a 2.2 billion dollars budgeted for good sign as the GCB on a daily basis sports in Guyana for 2022. This is indeed a significant leap for the developinteract with players from all walks ment of sport in Guyana. Individuals’ of life. We have seen how players’ inparticipation in sports is perceived as volvement in cricket has prepared them for life apart from cricket. The invaluable to the society since it encourages healthy lifestyles, differnature of the team-oriented sport of cricket has allowed for the GCB to ent career opportunities and the propromote a unified and competitive motion of aspects of one’s country.

Through sports many young people approach to the game. The GCB conare able to channel their energies in tinues to foster relationships from the Club levels through Associations, meaningful and purposeful ways, exCounties, National and Regional levploring their abilities among their els. These networks have allowed us peers and as they progress among the most successful players at the nation- H.E. President Dr. Irfaan Ali Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport GCB President Bissoondyal Singh to share ideas on development actival, regional and international levels. ities which will realize a sustainable Hon Charles Ramson Jr In cricket, the lucrative T20 leagues cricket development structure. now working more harmoniously to realize common goals President Singh advanced that the concept for a National which are now played in many countries across the world and objectives.

Academy put forward by government will stimulate efhas marshalled a revolution of the game as a desired proThe GCB also commends Hon. Minister of Culture, Youth forts by all GCB affiliate County Boards and Associations fessional career. In the past, available funding has been a and Sport Charles Ramson for his energetic and pivotal role to do their part in feeding the National Academy through perpetual constraint in the implementation of sport develto the development and promotion of sports in Guyana. His opment plans. The budgeted allocation to sports for 2022 the implementation of structured programs such as School intervention has been instrumental in resolving outstanding demonstrates His Excellency Dr. Irfaan Ali’s and his governCricket, Club Cricket, Outreach programs and the tailored issues within the administration of cricket. His continued Association and County activities. ment’s comprehensive understanding of the value of sport support for cricket has ushered in new purposeful working to society. This budget allocation would provide sport orgarelations between government and the GCB. The budget alnizations with the requisite resources necessary to realize location suggest that the exthe transformation of most sports in Guyana from an amapress concept of a National teur status to a professional sport. His Excellency President Academy is now inevitable Dr. Ali is obviously keen on having all sport disciplines emand would become a formal ploy systematic ways to administer sports in Guyana and nursing ground for young has indicated that the characteristics of transparency, acaspiring sport personalities. countability and integrity should be guiding principles of The GCB’s President sport administrations. Dr. Irfaan Ali’s government has witBissoondyal Singh posnessed a number of positive changes in cricket administraits that this unprecedenttion. From March 2021 a new executive took the reign of the ed budget allocation to GCB. This change has seen cricket being administered in a sport represents the govstructured and systematic way with the three county boards ernment’s wholistic compre-

SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Betway T20I series…

West Indies fall after Moeen Ali heroics

The dangerous Jason Roy made a fifty

Moeen Ali hit a blistering half-century

By Brandon Corlette

E

in

Barbados

ngland bounced back in the fourth T20 International at the buzzing Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados. On the back of Moeen Ali’s 28ball 63 and 2-28, England recorded a 34run win to level the series 2-2. There is therefore “all” to play for today, Sunday, January 30.

West Indies began the chase of 194 with a brave start from openers Kyle Mayers and Brandon King. The duo played some calypso shots and added 56 runs in the powerplay. The England bowlers were not allowed to settle, as Mayers racked up his highest T20I score of 40. However, he picked the safe hands of Chris Jordan at long-off during the bowling of Ali, and his 23-ball knock, which had four sixes and two fours, came to an end.

After that blistering 64-run partnership, Pooran joined King, but the latter, who wore a bandana and gave Ramnaresh Sarwan vibes, was caught at long-on for a 27-ball 26, which was decorated with four boundaries.

Last innings’ centurion Rovman (05) Powell was then bowled all ends up by an Adil Rashid googly with the score at 78-3 in 10.4 overs. Powell, who made 22 from 16, slammed two powerful sixes off successive balls, but with the next ball, he found longon.

Liam Livingstone, who bowls off-spin and leg-spin, was slammed for a 111-metre six by pocket-rocket Pooran.

After Pooran departed at 97-4 in 13.3 overs, Kieron Pollard joined Jason Holder, and the latter struck three sixes, but was removed for a 23-ball 32 with the score at 144-5 in 17.2 overs.

Darren Bravo finally made an appear-

ance to the crease, batting at seven. West Indies needed 49 runs from 12 balls, and England were in cruise control. Bravo and Pollard struggled to find the ropes, and it was game-over. West Indies ended on 1595 in 20 overs.

Moeen’s masterclass, Roy’s rocket

Under clear skies, West Indies won the toss and opted to field first, Dominic Drakes and Kyle Mayers coming into the starting XI in place of Shai Hope and Fabian Allen.

Tom Banton was removed early. He tried to hit a Jason Holder delivery over the leg-side but was undone by the bounce, and was caught at mid-on by Kyle Mayers with the score at 8-1. Banton made four.

The dangerous Jason Roy and the classy James Vince ensured England posted 45 runs in the powerplay. Roy took Sheldon Cottrell to the cleaners, slamming him for a 100-metre six, then punishing Drakes and Romario Shepherd.

In pugnacious mood, Roy reached his fifty from 34 balls with a thumping six off Drakes.

England were cruising, after 10 overs, at 84-1, but Kieron Pollard came into the attack and slowed things down. Roy’s innings eventually succumbed to the bowling of Pollard, and he was caught-behind for 52 from 42 balls, which included five fours and three sixes.

After that 85-run partnership, captain Moeen Ali partnered James Vince with the score at 93-2 in 11.3 overs.

Akeal Hosein switched ends and struck gold, removing James Vince for 34 from 26 balls. Vince, who struck two sixes and two fours, hit one down short third-man to Mayers when the score was at 97-3 in 12.3 overs.

Ali then dealt with Jason Holder, slam-

ming the seamer for 28 runs in the 18th over. The left-handed Ali struck Holder for four sweet sixes in a row, one of which slammed the glass at the media box and had journalists scampering from their seats.

Shepherd then switched ends and ended Liam Livingstone’s struggles for 16 from 15 balls. The Guyanese bowled wide outside off-stump and was rewarded when Livingstone spooned one to King at cover, with the England score at 162-4.

After that 65-run partnership, Mooen Ali continued to destroy the bowling, and reached his fifty in 23 balls. Ali played some delightful shots, slamming ENGLAND INNINGS (20 OVERS a Shepherd full ball on legMAXIMUM) Jason Roy c †Pooran b Pollard 52 stump over extra cover for the Tom Banton c Mayers b Holder 4 shot of the day.

James Vince c Mayers b Hosein 34 Ali’s brilliance ended when Moeen Ali (c) c Shepherd b Holder 63 he struck one down long-on, Liam Livingstone c King b the first ball of the final over, Shepherd 16 when the score was at 180-5.

Sam Billings † not out 13 Phil Salt c King b Holder 0 His scorching knock included Chris Jordan not out 0 seven sixes and one four from Extras (b 1, lb 2, w 8) 11 28 balls.

TOTAL (20 Ov, RR: 9.65) 193/6 Did not bat: Adil Rashid, Tymal Phil Salt failed to rub salt Mills, Reece Topley into the Windies’ wounds, as Fall of wickets: he was removed by Holder, 1-8 (Tom Banton, 1.6 ov), 2-93 (Jason Roy, 11.3 ov), but Billings (13) pushed 3-97 (James Vince, 12.3 ov), England to 193-6 in 20 overs.

4-162 (Liam Livingstone, 18.1 Holder claimed 3-44 in ov), 5-180 (Moeen Ali, 19.1 ov), 6-181 (Phil Salt, 19.3 ov) four overs, while Pollard had BOWLING O M R W top figures of 1-23 in four Sheldon Cottrell 4 0 34 0 overs.

Jason Holder 4 0 44 3 The final match of this exRomario Shepherd 3 0 40 1 Dominic Drakes 2 0 26 0 citing Betway series will bowl Akeal Hosein 3 0 23 1 off today, Sunday January 30, Kieron Pollard 4 0 23 1 from 16:00 in Barbados.

SCOREBOARD WEST INDIES INNINGS (TARGET: 194 RUNS FROM 20 OVERS) Brandon King c Salt b Ali 26 Kyle Mayers c Jordan b Ali 40 Nicholas Pooran †c Roy b Livingstone 22 Rovman Powell b Rashid 5 Jason Holder c Jordan b Topley 36 Kieron Pollard (c) not out 18 Darren Bravo not out 3 Extras (b 4, w 5) 9 TOTAL (20 Ov, RR: 7.95) 159/5 Did not bat: Romario Shepherd, Dominic Drakes, Akeal Hosein, Sheldon Cottrell Fall of wickets: 1-64 (Kyle Mayers, 7.2 ov), 2-69 (Brandon King, 9.1 ov), 3-78 (Rovman Powell, 10.4 ov), 4-97 (Nicholas Pooran, 13.3 ov), 5-144 (Jason Holder, 17.2 ov) BOWLING Reece Topley Moeen Ali Tymal Mills Chris Jordan Adil Rashid Liam Livingstone

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