Guyana Times -- Thursday, January 20, 2022

CIOG donates 2 vehicles to Health Ministry P

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

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 4895

THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022

Education system bolstered by 843 new CPCE graduates See story on page 3

…largest batch of trained teachers in history of the college …Rose Hall student is best graduating student

Guyana tops Caribbean at both CSEC, CAPE Chris Jones Omai makes ditches bid major gold for PNCR Vice find in new Chairman position …PNCR Executives now all from Norton’s slate Region 7 pit 4-month-old girl CAL plane’s windshield cracks among 7 new mid-air, COVID-19 deaths flight diverted See story on page 9

See story on page 17

Page 7

See story on page 8

See story on page 18

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Pomeroon man killed in boat accident P16 …chopped by engine's propeller

CDC to get US help in building capacity on oil spill P9 prevention, response CANU unearths $14M worth of ganja on vessel at GNIC wharf P10

Dartmouth protests

Police clear blocked roadway P17 of debris

Massive fire at Laparkan

Investigators examining P17 CCTV footage – Fire Chief

Possession of small quantities of ganja

Stakeholders to be invited to make submissions on removing custodial sentences P16

2 NEWS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

CIOG donates 2 vehicles to Health Ministry

T

he Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana on Wednesday handed over two vehicles to the Health Ministry, which will be utilised at the New Amsterdam Funeral Parlour in Berbice and Regions Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Six

(East Berbice-Corentyne).

The vehicles were donated to the CIOG by Caricom Auto Sales, Mohamed’s Enterprise and A Ali and Sons at a total cost of $7.5 million.

Acting President of the CIOG, Golzar Nambar ex-

plained that the organisation offers funeral services to citizens of Georgetown almost free of cost – a service which they are now looking to expand to the Berbice area.

“We want to recognise the amount of work the CIOG has done, we know that we

Businessman Nazar Mohamed handing over the keys for one of the vehicles to Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony

have a very successful story with the funeral service in Georgetown, everyone we take care of are the less fortunate, who do not have no one and we actually bury them free of cost,” Nambar said.

“We are actually spreading out now to the Berbice area which was a long-awaited service to be done, prayers be to god, that with the Minister involved at this time here we are actually getting it done…besides the two hearses that will be working on the Berbice area we’ll be having the mortuary, at which we’ll be assisting and this is collaborated or co-operated between the CIOG and the Ministry of Health so we will definitely take care of the Berbice area,” he stated.

Nambar further extended his thanks to the donors of the vehicles.

Receiving the vehicles, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony noted that in some cases many persons face challenges in getting their

trying to do here is to provide such a service,” he stated.

Anthony also extended his thanks to the donors.

“Allow [me], on behalf of Excellency President Dr Irfaan Ali and the Government of Guyana, to express our gratitude to the CIOG and to the donors for the donation that we received,” Anthony said.

“We would’ve had several discussions on how we can improve the funeral services

The two vehicles donated to the Health Ministry

deceased relative to their final resting place - a challenge which these vehicles will help to eliminate in Berbice.

We know that a lot of people would have challenges in getting maybe one of their dead relatives from wherever, maybe the site where they die to the mortuary or maybe sometimes from the mortuary to take them back home or even take them to the cemetery. What we want to ensure is that the person who died, that the rights are done in the right way, give that person the dignity that they deserve and so, what we are

in Berbice and we decided on a course of action, which would mean that if we collaborate and put our efforts together that we’ll have a far superior service than we have currently in Berbice.”

He noted that the Government would have invested in creating a new mortuary and, “What we’re seeking to do with this collaboration, and this is for us to have a joint partnership in managing the mortuary and their responsibilities on both sides but what we want is efficient management”.

3 Education system bolstered by 843 new CPCE graduates NEWS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

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

Thursday, Jan 20 – 04:00h – 05:30h and Friday, Jan 21 – 04:00h – 05:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Thursday, Jan 20 – 05:30h – 07:30h and Friday, Jan 21– 06:30h – 08:00h.

…largest batch of trained teachers in the history of college …Rose Hall student best graduating student

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY There will be thundery showers during the day.

Expect light rain showers at night. Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 27 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to Northerly between 1.78 metres and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 06:03h and 18:15h reaching maximum heights of 2.5 metres and 2.63 metres.

Low Tide: 23:49h reaching a minimum height of 0.7 metre.

Overall best graduating student Jessica Seeraj

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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 19, 2022

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he education system will be bolstered with the introduction of 843 new trained teachers for the early childhood to secondary levels – all graduates from the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE).

The new teachers were certified during the 87th Graduation Exercise of the CPCE on Wednesday. This is the largest graduating batch of trained teachers: 198 in early childhood, 404 for the primary level and 241 for the secondary level. It represents a gender distribution of 86 per cent females and 14 per cent males. Of the graduates, eight per cent attained the level of distinction, 90 per cent credit and two per cent pass.

A breakdown of graduates showed 12 per cent hailing from Region One, 11 per cent from Region Two, 12 per cent from Region Three, 26 per cent from Region Four, six per cent from Region Five, 11 per cent from Region Six, five per cent from Region Seven, two per cent from Region Eight, nine per cent from Region Nine and six per cent from Region 10.

Meanwhile, 29 per cent of students specialised in Mathematics, 20 per cent in English, 14 per cent in Agriculture Science, 12 per cent in Business Studies, seven per cent in Industrial Technology, five per cent in Home Economics, four per cent in Science and Social Studies respectively, three per cent in Information Technology and two per cent in Spanish.

Principal Dr Viola Rowe in her report titled: “Remaining Steadfast and Determined in This New Dispensation of Education” pointed out that the institution has, over nine decades, experienced several transformations. Today, a hybrid approach is used for teacher education delivery in light of COVID-19.

During the pandemic, she

said it was a “trying time” for the college but it adopted a flexible and robust mechanism with the use of technology to continue operation, moving completely online supported with continued classroom activities.

The Education Ministry’s aim to move the 73 per cent

trained teachers in the system to 100 per cent by 2023, has resulted in increased applications at the college.

Identifying the challenges, Dr Rowe pointed out that staffing was inadequate to respond to large student intake, and support staffers were employed for the online department. This also resulted in financial constraints. A diagnostic team was also deployed to assess if the college was capable of operating in the new dispensation of education.

This report is yet to be finalised.

“The overwhelming demand for teacher education by untrained teachers in the system and persons desirous of pursuing teacher education put a substantial financial strain on the college’s 2021 budget. This financial constraint affected, for instance, the timely payment of stipend for the April 2021 cohort, while their peers (the graduates) were paid in full,” she indicated.

Another setback is connectivity in far-flung areas with the adoption of online classes, as well as technological gaps at the centres. As admission and demands increase, the principal signalled the need to attract quality staff – both locally and abroad – especially since it is poised to become

Chief Education Officer Dr Marcel Hutson

a four-year university college.

However, she acknowledged, “The attraction of quality staff has implications for a revised remuneration package considering the institution’s operations in a new education dispensation. The college traditionally was a three-year post-secondary institution based on entry requirements of four CSEC subjects matriculation. In 2010, with the introduction of the Associate’s Degree gained higher education recognition…We strongly believe that with capacity building, improved quality assurance systems, improved college profile, a commitment to education research for publication and tenure, the college is poised to become a four-year teacher university college.”

TURN TO PAGE 7

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guyanatimesgy.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022

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

The Garden City

T

he City of Georgetown has a rich history of attractiveness through cleanliness and aesthetics, among other things. Those more advanced in age would be able to authenticate that beauty. During that memorable period, when the city was much more pleasing to the eye, and with that standard sustained, there was also a profound sense of order that seemed to naturally unfold.

Canals were conspicuously clean, and any semblance of garbage may have nested in one’s own imagination. Trees were well pruned, and with the lush grass from the well-kept parapets, contributed immensely to Georgetown receiving the deserved branding as the “Garden City”. A rewind of time through the cherished photographs of that period somehow seems to instinctively capture the satisfaction of City dwellers and those who visited and experienced the welcoming ambience.

Many from that period spoke of the pleasantness and ease in traversing the city. The famous and iconic yellow buses that were parked in orderly fashion outside the Stabroek Market provided the transportation needed around the city. They ran on schedule, regardless of whether filled, half-filled or empty. There were no touts or hassling of passengers, and destinations were clearly demarcated.

Travelling then was not a frustrating endeavour, and operators were dressed in uniforms with their distinctive caps. They were polite, and did their utmost to make passengers comfortable. The city streets were passable, allowing for the deserved smooth ride. One example is Sussex Street, which was a major route. Its current state may not remind of the time when it was with canals and parapets then aesthetically pleasing.

As time progressed, the impact of change manifested.

Changes are inevitable, and are either positive or negative.

Today, none can dispute that the aesthetics of the city is a far cry from what it once was. Its condition over the recent years has been a continuous source for satire, which seems to sum up the evolution from Garden City to Garbage City. That uninspiring title is demonstrative of the neglect the city has been subjected to over time. In examining this, it becomes virtually impossible to avoid referring to the management of affairs at City Hall.

The fact is, the City’s management over the past few decades was generally in the hands of those who have been and are associated with the People’s National Congress (PNC), which is the major party in the APNU/AFC Opposition.

In the earlier part of the immediate post-Independence PNC rule, the City was in a tidy state. It was years later that the downward spiral began. Some may argue that the City’s decline was related to the failing national economy from the mid-seventies to the early nineties. Many lamented the prevalent economic hardships then. The impact was harsh, and Georgetown may have been a casualty.

But even during that time, people paid taxes, which were expected to be used for the upkeep of the city. The economy expanded with sustained growth from the late nineties to around 2015.

The opposite was the reality, as garbage piled up, streets were riddled with potholes, canals were clogged, safety became a concern as crime increased, the historic City Hall Building reached a state of disrepair, and a national embarrassment and congestion became routine as dilapidation replaced beauty.

While evolution, including the type of vehicles and amount and personal preferences, is to be taken into consideration, the allegations of mismanagement cannot be dismissed.

The Government has had to bail out City Hall on numerous occasions, and that itself speaks volumes of the management, or lack thereof, at City Hall.

The PNC, with a history of political dominance in the city, have failed in effectively managing City Hall’s affairs.

Canada’s High Commissioner to Guyana, Mark Berman, and Political Counsellor Caroline Mireault meeting with Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Chairman Justice Claudette Singh and Chief Electoral Officer Vishnu Persaud on Tuesday. During the meeting, Justice Singh shared the Commission's mandate and some of the plans for GECOM in the coming months (Canadian High Commission photo)

Govt is managing the economy, country and politics excellently Dear Editor, Guyana’s PPP Government seems to be managing the socioeconomic and political affairs of our country excellently, compared to the previous administration's chaotic five-year reign in office.

Last year, the PPP Administration rolled out the massive programmes which again saw the Public Servants, frontline workers, pensioners, sugar workers, farmers, rice farmers, families, and households all benefit from cash grants, flood relief, and other forms of ministerial interventions.

Compared to this, I feel the citizens of Guyana got only taxes, more headaches, and confusing policies and sinister changes from the APNU+AFC Administration throughout its tenure.

I feel a sense of calamity prevailing in our society despite the justified concern about the cost of living in our society, which is being addressed by competent authorities in the drafting of policies in Budget 2022. I am confidently saying this year’s budget would be exciting and would be the biggest budget to date.

Not to steal the Finance Minister’s thunder, but the budget might include the big projects and another installment of socioeconomic measures designed at targeting the poor, vul-

nerable and elderly in society.

I hope to see more welfare and targeted fiscal measures for Guyana’s people clearly outlined in the budget. I have reason to believe that another promise would be among the estimates this year.

Things are certainly looking up for Guyanese this year, but do not take my word for it, let us wait and see.

Also, this calamity at the household level is partial, because the Government knows what it is doing, despite the few hurdles placed in the heel of development by unscrupulous businessmen and ordinary folks who are greedy and want the same environment they had in the post-2015 and pre2022 period.

No more unfair advantage or special treatment is being doled out to businesses because of political affiliation or link to prominent personalities. I see a more level playing field for contracts and procurement now, which would only get better with time and a strict adherence policy.

The Government seems to be monitoring and handling the public purse efficiently and effectively, as instances of overspending, breaches in procurement guidelines, contactor breaches, and lack of accountability and transparency are being dealt with

according to the letter of the law now.

As for corruption, I think the PPP Government is weeding it out whenever and wherever it rears its ugly head, compared to the horror-like stories of what had obtained during the APNU+AFC Administration as they lorded over Guyana, which was splashed across the daily newspapers, tv news, and social media.

The PPP Administration is working feverishly on building the necessary capacity and management systems in every area of the local, regional, and national governance system. In this respect, the main pieces of legislation which were promised to the people were delivered. These laws include the historic and modern Local Contents Act, The Natural Resources Fund Act, Human Organs Transplant Act, Deeds Registry Act, Petroleum (exploration and production) (Amendment) Act, and the Firearms Act, among others.

This year, the parliamentary agenda is stacked with more changes to laws, keeping them updated and modern.

Finally, the PPP Government is managing the politics that are becoming toxic and tricky in Guyana. The party is aware of its political promises made to Guyanese,

so it is accomplishing the same regardless of the critiques, while the main Opposition is in shambles and trying to present a formidable Opposition front. The governing party must not just govern for its supporters, but for all of Guyana. This PPP Government has ensured it put in place the right policies to further the lives of the ordinary man too, and its commitment to holding Local Government polls this year will be a test.

Unemployment, underemployment of youths, social ills, and management of COVID-19 pandemic are still a work-in-progress for, seemingly, this PPP Administration to address sufficiently in the long term.

I am pleasantly surprised with the sterling management of our oil and gas sector, and the prudent management of the fiscal responsibility procedures taken to safeguard Guyana’s resources. I am not surprised, however, by the zeal and commitment shown by the President, Prime Minister, Vice President, and the Ministers to ensure Guyana is blazing the socioeconomic trail of development trajectory.

In one year, Guyana is back on its feet.

Yours truly, Michael Younge

guyanatimesgy.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 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

The city has a different atmosphere Dear Editor, President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, Dr Irfaan Ali, and Prime Minister Brigadier Mark Phillips, over the weekend led several senior Government officials and members of the Joint Services, the Private Sector and several other agencies on a two-day clean-up exercise of the capital, Georgetown.

There was also support from the various diplomatic missions, to whom we are all grateful.

This exercise was initiat-

ed by the President, and came after residents of Georgetown have repeatedly voiced their concerns about the poor management of the capital city under the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance for Change stewardship. The city of Georgetown is controlled by the Georgetown Mayor and City Council. The APNU+AFC City Council is seemingly under political directive from the People’s National Congress Reform, which has opposed the cleanup and has urged residents, their supporters and their

Dr Yesu Persaud had captured the admiration of this entire nation

Dear Editor, Already, lots of words of appreciation, admiration and sympathy are extended to a legend, Dr Yesu Persaud.

This icon was a friend, neighbour, and community-conscious individual who had captured the admiration of this entire nation.

Dr Yesu Persaud played an integral role in his company’s evolution and growth in the last five decades. He had also played a pivotal role in the fight for democracy during those dark days of rigged elections. He was an outspoken advocate, and didn't mince words to express his criticism of the political class.

Dr Yesu Persaud was arguably one of the most knowledgeable and experienced corporate executives in Guyana, and probably beyond. He was passionate about his work, and was always concerned about the wellbeing of people. This gen-

erous business executive had tremendous depth of knowledge of the way the market works. His leadership style was always impressive and candid; even though he had aged, he was the hardest worker in the room.

Dr Yesu Persaud had many strengths. The one that I admired the most was his ability to make you step out of your comfort zone and take on new challenges. This gem would be widely missed and fondly remembered.

My family and I wish to extend our deepest sympathy to Dr. Yesu Persaud’s family members. May God Almighty reward him for his outstanding efforts in serving Guyana and humanity at large.

With utmost respect, deepest sympathy and regrets.

Yours sincerely, Nazar Mohamed Businessman

various controlled NDCs not to participate. This was hardly the case, as the people of Georgetown fully supported the cleanup initiative, even in the PNC- dominated strongholds.

This goes to show our people are now enlightened as

to who has their interest at heart.

This continuous trend of divisive, selfish and irresponsible politics being practised by the PNC/APNU/AFC is unacceptable.

Most of the residents of Georgetown are fully ap-

ation of those conditions, and made him focused on improvement in the sugar industry.

Dr. Yesu Persaud had always aimed for excellence; set high goals, and, through his exemplary leadership style, worked to enhance and develop the human resource capital in the sugar industry.

The records of GuySuCo illustrate that Dr. Persaud had been a foremost thinker in the industry in the early part of his life, advising the then Hoyte Administration with respect to the involvement of the Private Sector in the sugar industry as a means of enhancing efficiency in the industry. The Corporation must note that today, because of these early seeds planted by business leaders like Dr. Yesu Persaud, some 50% of the lands on the West Demerara

Pride has been restored to Georgetown, our beloved capital. The city itself has a different atmosphere altogether. Congratulations are in order.

Sincerely, Thomas Cole

Tribute to Dr Yesu Persaud A visionary brain, caring Dear Editor, Much has been, and will continue to be, said about Dr. Yesu Persaud. His monumental achievements in business and his invaluable contributions to the advancement of entrepreneurship will, no doubt, be foremost. That in no way even suggests that his efforts, over many years, to foster and preserve Indo-Guyanese culture and traditions are of less importance.

I knew of him as a boy growing up on the East Bank, and was in awe at having had the opportunity to be in proximity to him during a moment in my tenure as a technician at the GuySuCo Central Laboratory in Georgetown. He was instrumental in helping to realise the activities in 1988 to mark the 150th anniversary of Indian arrival. Having directed a few Indian-themed stage plays by that time, I missed out on the anniversary celebrations due to prolonged hospitalisation. My disappointment was profound.

When he personal approached me in 1989 to direct the sequel to “The Journey”, a stage play depicting aspects of the arrival of East Indian immigrants and settling in then British Guiana, my incredulity and joy were boundless.

Having been in the media for many years, and having conducted numerous interviews, I was dumbfounded when he asked, some years back, to interview me on my achievements on the promotion and preservation of Indo-Guyanese culture. I felt it should have

been the other way around.

The description of my feelings to his request would be an understatement, given that mine paled in comparison to his.

We engaged in many discussions on the promotion and preservation of Indo-Guyanese culture. Some of those discussions unavoidably diverted to life and challenges. His advice remains priceless. Having had the opportunity to work at the Diamond Distillery, I experienced the positive impact of his vision and astute leadership.

I was honoured as I was the day he and I were asked by the Bank of Guyana to be recipients of specially minted coins for the commemoration of the 175th anniversary of Indian Arrival in Guyana. I never thought that such events of being alongside Dr. Persaud were possible for me. In all of my interactions with him, he was humble, accommodating, comforting, and encouraging.

There were times when we had divergent points of view.

Even then, his humility shone through.

He has made an indelible mark in the various fields he influenced, and, as a cultural activist, I am aware of the void in the efforts to preserve Indian culture his death has left. He, however, has left a legacy; one of hope, optimism and determination to achieve for individual and collective advancement.

Sincerely Neaz Subhan

GuySuCo mourns the loss of its former Vice Chairman Dear Editor, The Guyana Sugar Corporation mourns the loss of Dr. Yesu Persaud, CCH, who was the former Vice Chairman of the entity since its incorporation on May 21, 1976, when the Government of Guyana acquired the net assets from Booker McConnell Limited, the Demerara Sugar Company Limited, and the Guyana Sugar Producers Association.

Dr Persaud was the longest serving Vice Chair in the sugar industry, serving the sugar industry for twelve (12) years, from 1976 until 1988. His humble beginnings in the sugar industry made him aware of the harsh environment and experiences of the sugar workers, and that knowledge propelled him towards working for the allevi-

preciative of this initiative, which sought to beautify their environment whilst removing the health hazards that affect them. After taking a simple walk around the city today, this letter writer is pleased with the work that has been done.

that are dedicated to sugar cane are now cultivated by the Private Sector and their product serves as feedstock to the Uitvlugt Sugar Mill.

Under his visionary leadership, the sugar industry forged a strong relationship with the company that he led for many years, the Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), and today that relationship between the state-owned GuySuCo and the Private Sector-led DDL is stronger than ever. This relationship is a manifestation of his hard work at adding value to locally produced products

by Guyanese in Guyana and the World over. Today, both the Demerara Sugar and the Demerara Rum, forged from the same soils of Guyana, illustrate the strength of his vision and intention for all the peoples of Guyana.

In addition to his substantive contribution to the sugar industry, GuySuCo is also aware of the numerous multi-faceted contributions made by Dr. Yesu Persaud to the socio-cultural development of the Guyanese people; his support to the various mandirs and cultural organisations is indeed remarkable.

The Board of GuySuCo, the Executive Management, and the 7,789 workers of the sugar industry would like to wish the family of Dr. Yesu Persaud and the DDL Family our deepest condolences upon the passing of this iconic Guyanese patriot.

Sincerely, Angela Abraham-Parks Communications Officer GuySuCo

heart, and bold mind

Dear Editor, A visionary brain, caring heart and bold mind are now permanently at rest with the passing of the Guyana-born, internationally-acclaimed business leader Yesu Persaud.

His had been a life of service to humanity founded on entrepreneurship, philanthropy and bold leadership.

I first met Yesu Persaud in 1975, when I served as a young reporter among the media corps assigned to cover the nationalisation negotiations between the Guyana Government and Jessel Holdings in Guyana, which included Sandbach Parker, sugar estates at Diamond and Leonora, and Diamond Liquors Limited. I will forever remember, among his trans-

formational initiatives, his untiring efforts at having sugar workers moved from the squalor of the logies at Rajpur and C-yard on the Leonora estate to humane housing conditions at Anna Catherina.

Ever since then, in and out of his employ, he had been a mentor, a friend, and a motivating influence in my life. I am indebted to him for his invaluable contribution to my life's journey thus far.

Thank you, Dr. Yesu Persaud. Your life was a fine blend, whose aroma will be everlasting. Sleep in peace, sir.

My deepest sympathy to his wife, children and all his loved ones on this great loss.

Sincerely Wesley Kirton

Will the hint be heeded?

Dear Editor, The resignation of the Head of the List of one of the parliamentary joinder parties, followed by the stepping aside of the vice chair of the majority party in the umbrella, must be seen as sending a clear indication to

the pair holding tight to the reins of control in the umbrella, that it is okay to resign and step aside. Will the hint be heeded?

Sincerely, Shamshun Mohamed

6

THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022

Page

Foundation ◄

Converting customary measurements to metric measurements

by

I

n this fun and easy science experiment we are going to use science to create a chemical reaction that we use to seemingly magically extinguish a fire.

Important: An adult’s assistance is required for this experiment as flames and matches are involved.

Materials: Cup, tumbler, or jar that is pint sized or larger Vinegar Baking soda Measuring cups and spoons Match or lighter Tea lights or small candles

Example: 1ft ≈ 0.30m Convert 9 feet to metres by multiplying: 9x0.30 = 2.7m So, 9 feet is approximately 2.7 metres.

Teacher's Tip “Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.” – Aristotle

Instructions: Add about 1/3 cup of vinegar to the cup.

Have an adult carefully light the tea light or candle.

Add about 1/2 tablespoon of baking soda to the vinegar.

Carefully hold the cup at an angle over the flame. Do so in such a way that the vinegar mixture does not pour out.

Observe what happens to the flame.

How it works: When the vinegar and baking soda mix, an endothermic chemical reaction begins. This chemical reaction releases carbon dioxide. Although you cannot see it, the carbon dioxide pours out of the cup once tipped. Since fire needs oxygen, the carbon dioxide smothers the flame and puts it out.

Make this a science project: Try using different temperatures of vinegar.

Try using different amounts of vinegar and baking soda. Have an adult set up several candles and see which amounts of vinegar and baking soda can be used to extinguish the most flames. (sciencefun. org)

Kamau Brathwaite

But today I recapture the islands' bright beaches: blue mist from the ocean rolling into the fishermen's houses.

By these shores I was born: sound of the sea came in at my window, life heaved and breathed in me then with the strength of that turbulent soil.

Since then I have travelled: moved far from the beaches: sojourned in stoniest cities, walking the lands of the north in sharp slanting sleet and the hail, crossed countless saltless savannas and come to this house in the forest where the shadows oppress me and the only water is rain and the tepid taste of the river.

We who are born of the ocean can never seek solace in rivers: their flowing runs on like our longing, reproves us our lack of endeavour and purpose, proves that our striving will founder on that.

We resent them this wisdom, this freedom: passing us toiling, waiting and watching their cunning declension down to the sea.

But today I would join you, travelling river, borne down the years of your patientest flowing, past pains that would wreck us, sorrows arrest us, hatred that washes us up on the flats; and moving on through the plains that receive us, processioned in tumult, come to the sea.

Bright waves splash up from the rocks to refresh us, blue sea-shells shift in their wake and there is the thatch of the fishermen's houses, the path made of pebbles, and look!

Small urchins combing the beaches look up from their traps to salute us:

they remember us just as we left them.

The fisherman, hawking the surf on this side of the reef, stands up in his boat and halloos us: a starfish lies in its pool.

And gulls, white sails slanted seaward, fly into the limitless morning before us.

WORD SEARCH

7 Omai makes major gold find in new Region 7 pit C NEWS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

anada-based Omai Gold Mines has discovered significant gold values during initial trenching and drilling on the Broccoli Hill target at its Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), Guyana property.

On Wednesday, the company disclosed that trenching exposed a quartz-rich shear zone with samples assaying 29.3 g/t Au, 7.8 g/t Au, 5.0 g/t Au and 2.2 g/t Au along a 40-metre strike. Additionally, the first round of drilling on Broccoli Hill, totalling 690 metres, intersected gold mineralisation with four of the six holes returning assays greater than 1 g/t Au and as high as 4.04 g/t Au over 0.9 m and 0.91 g/t over 6.8 m.

According to Omai’s Chief Executive Officer, Elaine Ellingham, “…our initial trenching and drilling on Broccoli Hill, that commenced late in 2021, has already resulted in several significant gold values.”

This announcement, the CEO said, comes on the heels of Omai delivering on its goal of completing an NI 43-101 mineral resource estimate on

Wenot by the end of 2021 – quite an achievement for the company’s first year.

Ellingham noted that Broccoli Hill is an area located only 300 metres north of the Wenot pit and less than 200 metres east of the Fennell pit. These two pits combined, produced over 3.7 million ounces of gold.

“After field work and trenching in October and November, we completed six initial wide-spaced holes on Broccoli Hill before the holiday break in December. We intersected gold in four of the six holes and consider this very successful for first pass drilling on a large, relatively untouched target area. With the knowledge gained, this week we started additional trenching, mapping and sampling,” Ellingham stated.

To this end, the CEO added that over the next couple of months, they will advance some of the property’s prime exploration targets, including Broccoli Hill, that hold potential for new near surface mineralisation amenable to open pit mining.

Broccoli Hill has been

Broccoli Hill's historic workings and old soil and auger sampling results plus 2021 drill holes

worked by artisanal miners for over 100 years, according to the mining company.

It said that broad gold anomalies were identified by previous auger and soil surveys

Education system bolstered...

FROM PAGE 3

Meanwhile, Chief Education Officer, Dr Marcel Hutson outlined that these graduates will complement the school system and ease the weight of current teachers in the workforce. He projected that at some point in the future, the reality will be two teachers per classroom.

Hutson regarded the college as a vanguard of the education system, insisting that efforts must be made to

enhance its operations and prestige.

He highlighted, “We could very well move along the Finland Model where we have at least two teachers in the classroom and that is the projection at some point in time to deal with our students who may very well have learning difficulties.

We are in good standing as we move in this particular direction.”

The President’s Award for Excellence was awarded to Best Overall Graduating Student, Jessica Seeraj from the Rose Hall Centre as she completed the Associate’s Degree in Education.

The College’s nineteen centres remain in operation across all regions. This academic year saw 2664 firstyear applicants with the overall student population being 3479. (G12)

and the airborne geophysical signatures are similar to those of the Fennell deposit.

The abundance of past placer gold workings in the lowlands flanking the hill, together with the numerous scattered artisanal workings on the hill itself, indicate a nearby gold source.

Exploration across this large 900m by 700m area has been hampered by a lack of knowledge of the underlying bedrock lithologies due to deep tropical weathering of the bedrock to clay-weathered saprolite to depths of 25

to 60m, complicated by transported laterite.

Trenching with an excavator on the north-western part of Broccoli Hill in November exposed a quartz-veinlet rich zone. The orientation of these northeast-trending, northwest dipping veinlets is consistent with some of the higher-grade zones within the Fennell deposit, located less than 300 metres to the west.

A 1990s era shallow auger hole approximately 80 metres east of this trench assayed 12.4 g/t Au from a sample taken from a 4 to 6 m depth.

Six initial diamond drill holes totalling 690 metres were completed on Broccoli Hill in December, ranging in depth from 74 to 200 metres.

Two of these holes were located to test the high grade, quartz-rich zone identified in the northwest trench and the other four holes were to test a combination of soil geochemical anomalies, interpreted structures from the geophysics and other possible quartz veining and felsic dikes identified from our trenching and mapping. These holes, spanning 850 metres across Broccoli Hill, provide considerable encouragement.

The gold is associated with intervals of quartz and quartz-ankerite veining and weak veinlet stockworks, and in hole 28 appears hosted in a deeply weathered felsic dike.

According to the Omai missive, this late 2021 trenching and drilling provides valuable information on Broccoli Hill, confirming the presence of gold mineralisation across the large target area.

“Mineralisation is consistent with the previously mined deposits, being associated with stockworks of quartz veinlets or brittle fractured and annealed felsic dikes. With this information, additional field work including trenching and mapping recommenced this week. Drilling is expected to re-start in 3 to 4 weeks,” the Canada-based mining company stated.

8 NEWS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

4-month-old girl among 7 new COVID-19 deaths

S

even more COVIDrelated deaths were announced on Wednesday – of which a four-month-old baby girl was included as a fatality.

This brings the death toll to 1108.

The child, who hailed from Region Six, died on January 14. Four deaths were reported on January 18: a 60-year-old male from Region 10; and three females from Region Four, aged 62, 63 and 68.

On January 19, two males from Region Four – aged 63 and 66 – also died.

Two of the adults were partially vaccinated, one fully-vaccinated, one unvaccinated and the status of the last two is unknown.

There were 743 new cases in one day according to the Ministry’s dashboard, with the total confirmed cases in the country reaching 53,921. The infections follow a gender distribution of 25,214 males and 28,907 females.

Along with 18 patients in the designated Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 11,639 are in home isolation, 162 in institutional isolation and 27 in institutional quarantine. The data showed that 40,994 patients have recovered from the life-threatening virus while 481,243 swabs were processed.

In analysing new cases, statistics show that 34 surfaced in Region One (Barima-Waini); 21 in

Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam); 49 in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara); 323 in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica); 54 in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice); 40 in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne); 30 in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni); one in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni); 63 in Region Nine (Upper

GUYANA COVID-19 DASHBOARD JANUARY 19, 2022 UPDATE

NUMBER OF NEW CASES

743

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

162 11,639

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN COVID-19 ICU

18

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL QUARANTINE

27

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (FEMALES)

28,907

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (MALES)

25,214

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES IN GUYANA SINCE 2020

53,921

NUMBER OF RECOVERED CASES

40,994

TOTAL 1st DOSE VACCINATED FULLY IMMUNISED

REGION 1

1874

REGION 2

2017

REGION 3

6953

REGION 4

27,096

REGION 5

1979

REGION 6

4887

REGION 7

2232

REGION 8

671

REGION 9

3104

REGION 10

3108

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

418,333 305,194

TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES SINCE MARCH 2020

1108

Keep a physical distance of at least 6 feet.

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

GET MEDICAL ADVICE ON COVID-19 FROM MOH 24/7 HOTLINE NUMBERS: 2311166; 226 7480; 624 6674; 624 2819; 624 3067 OR 180/181.

Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and 129 in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

Since the pandemic, the rate of testing has increased

by 20, when comparing 2020 to 2022. In 2020, some 38,548 tests were conducted. In comparison, January 1 to 12 of this year would have seen a monumental increase of 30,539 tests being processed.

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony outlined in Wednesday’s COVID update that staff from the Ministry have been actively manag-

ing tests.

In this breath, he added, “They’ve been working and managing the volumes of tests that we are doing, but

at the same time we believe that we need to look at those persons who really require the tests, and not for some individual to determine this is the test that they need and they come and ask for that test.”

In the coming weeks, he predicted that testing will continue on a large volume, especially with the rise in infections daily. Persons desir-

ous of testing for the virus have been asked to desist from crowding testing sites by dispersing themselves to locations.

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)

The brave new world...

D

…of Metaverse id you wonder - much less take time out to find out why Facebook, probably the most recognised brand in the entire world, would seem to commit business hara-kiri by changing its name suddenly to “Meta”??

After all, any company would have to pay billions of US$ to have that recognition!! Well, the reason is related to why Microsoft just shelled out almost US$70 BILLION for the gaming company Activision Blizzard - creator of the widely popular virtual reality game “Call of Duty”! That’s right! US$70 BILLION Smakaroos!! More than 12 times our annual GNP, and more than TWICE what Exxon and partners would invest in our 10-billion-barrel-oil-reserves!!

We’re taking REAL money here!!

Now, we might be tempted to say that Microsoft is just trying to augment its presence in the burgeoning gaming industry, where it has had a presence with its X-Box for years. And you would be right…but what’s the link with Apple’s name change to “Meta”? Aha!! Good you asked!! Cause Microsoft, Facebook and every other player in the internet world are convinced that the virtual and augmented realities (VR and AR) developed for gaming would help transform the internet as we know it into a “metaverse”!!

What are VR and AR? Well, if you want to be a bit technical: “virtual reality is characterised by persistent virtual worlds that continue to exist even when you're not playing, and augmented reality combines aspects of the digital and physical worlds.” If you haven’t already done so, just get the glasses or goggles that allow you to enter into that virtual world of games, and interact with characters simultaneously as others do from all over the world, and check it out. What the techies foresee is that the clothes or equipment you use will be sold to you to retain permanently - and allowed to take across platforms forever!! So, the metaverse will also be a digital economy!

And as we talk about what this is all about, just imagine we’re in the position of fellas back in the 1970s, talking about “the internet”!! All they could think about, as its inventor working for the US Government said, was sending letters faster between companies that has computers!!

How could they’ve known what we have now?! In the metaverse, connections will be invitingly augmented.

Right now, we can speak to each other on Zoom calls from wherever there’s the internet. But imagine sharing experiences with millions as we go about our lives on the streets and in cinemas, concerts etc.

Might begin by us having to wear those goggles etc, but it won’t be long before they’re miniaturised to become innocuous!!

Welcome to a brave new world!! …and yet blackouts Maybe you wondered why your humble Eyewitness went on that riff about the metaverse. Well, it just hit him as he experienced hours of “scheduled load shedding” - the Orwellian doublespeak for “blackouts”!! It’s like “cane cutters” being now labelled “cane harvesters”, as if the doublespeak lessens the indignity and degradation of the lived reality! He just wanted to emphasise that, as the rest of the world progresses, we’re still stuck in that dystopian world the PNC created between 1964 and 1992.

Precariously perched about Haiti!

Now, one may say that should be “water under the bridge” by now. But if the effects of slavery and Indentureship can linger for hundreds of years - we learn about “systemic” conditions, didn’t we? - what about the Burnhamite rape from just decades ago?

Didn’t he wreck the entire economy - including electricity and other utilities - along with the “commanding heights of the economy”? And even more insidiously, created a barracoon mentality!?

Every man for himself, and the devil take the hindmost! ...but live in squalor The PNC, under its new leader, said it was they who decided there should be no cooperation with the PPP Central Government to clean-up Georgetown.

The Mayor was just their “creature”, bearing the news!!

Filth is good?

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

NEWS

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Guyana tops Caribbean at both CSEC, CAPE T

he Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) has announced the 2021 top awardees for the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) and the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations, with Guyanese students Samuel Haynes and Zaynab Shaffie receiving the respective top award for both.

Guyana secured several of the regional awards from the Council. Overall Outstanding Achievement at the CSEC level was awarded to Zaynab Shaffie of Queen’s College, who secured 18 Grade Ones and two Grade Twos.

Samuel Haynes of Queen’s College received the Overall Outstanding Achievement for the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) after securing nine Grade Ones at the examination.

At the CSEC level, Roshni Samaroo of Queen’s College won the top Humanities Award, Naresh Jagnanan of the Essequibo Islands Secondary School won the top Business Award, and Sarena Razak of Queen’s College won the top Technical Vocational

Overall Outstanding Achievement for CAPE, Samuel Haynes

Education Award.

Among other Caribbean students of the ACCA CSEC Accounting Awards, Riley Nurse of Queen’s College and Saalih Rahim of the I.S.A Islamic School were recipients.

Other CAPE awards included Crystal Benjamin of the Bishops’ High School securing third place in the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) CAPE Accounting Awards, and Abdul Subhan of the St Stanislaus College copping the CAPE History Award.

In a statement, the Education Ministry said it “regards these students’

achievements as significant, particularly because they were able to perform exceptionally well despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic”.

Some 9,808 candidates were registered for the CSEC 2021 examinations, as compared to 12,009 registered for 2020. Subject entries for 2021 were 61,437.

An analysis of the 2021 preliminary results revealed that the overall pass rate at the General and Technical Proficiencies for Grades One to Three was 66.36 per cent.

Some 20 subject areas out of a total of 33 have seen top performances for the region.

At the CSEC lev-

el, Guyana scored higher than the regional average in Integrated Science, Electronic Document Management and Preparation, Office Administration, Information Technology, and Human and Social Biology. Performance was lower than the region for Mathematics, Chemistry, Principles of Business, and Social Studies.

Some 20 subject areas have seen top performances for the region, with 70 per cent acceptable grades for CSEC. Last year, there was a reduction in the SchoolBased Assessment (SBA) requirements by as much as 50 per cent in some instances. The requirements for specific subjects were also reduced due to the prevailing COVID-19 circumstances, specifically for modern languages.

In May/June 2021, some 723 candidates from 10 secondary schools and four private centres wrote CAPE in Guyana. A total of 88 per cent of students received acceptable grades, higher than the region’s 87 per cent.

The overall pass rate in 2021 was 90.86 per cent; while the gender distribution of the overall passes

Overall Outstanding Achievement for CSEC, Zaynab Shaffie

is 36 per cent males and 64 per cent females. For CAPE, 30 units saw candidates obtaining a 100 per cent pass rate for Grades One to Five, and 75 per cent passes across another 28 units.

A percentage scale shows that 92 per cent students attained acceptable grades for Caribbean Studies; 97 per cent for Communication Studies; 96 per cent for Sociology Unit 1; 96 per cent for Sociology Unit 2; 95 per cent for Law Unit 1; 96 per cent for Law Unit 2; 80 per cent for Integrated Mathematics; 59 per cent for Pure Mathematics 1; 75 per cent for Pure Mathematics 2; 84 per cent

for Chemistry Unit 1; 95 per cent for Chemistry Unit 2; 90 per cent for Biology Unit 1, and 97 per cent for Biology Unit 2.

In the exams, Guyana had secured higher performances than the regional average. These scores come amid 2020’s debacle, wherein a total of 20 schools in fifteen subject areas had received ungraded results and subjects. Those revelations had sparked widespread public outrage, with other students demanding answers from the examinations body as those relate to the poor grades assigned.

Over 11,400 were then resolved by CXC. (G12)

CDC to get US help in building capacity on oil spill prevention, response

T

he United States Government will be assisting Guyana to develop a national response system by enhancing capacity of the local Civil Defence Commission (CDC) relative to maritime oil spill prevention, planning and response.

This has been announced by the US Embassy in Georgetown on Wednesday.

A statement from the Embassy revealed that the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and the Guyana Civil Defence Commission (CDC) would be getting support from the United States Department of State’s Energy and Mineral Governance Programme (EMGP) for this initiative.

In fact, USCG and the CDC have already begun a six-month series of joint activities designed to assist Guyana in the development of a reliable national response system. A virtual risk assessment workshop is scheduled for this month, to build upon the prog-

ress Guyana has already made with the development of its National Oil Spill Contingency Plan and oil spill response capabilities.

The USCG facilitators will guide the participants through an assessment of possible oil spill scenarios in Guyana, to identify the most likely and most consequential scenarios. The results would be used to identify possible improvements and updates in Guyana’s National Oil Spill Contingency Plan.

Other activities in 2022 would include virtual exercise programme management training and in-person exchanges to observe oil spill response exercises.

According to the US Embassy, this partnership is part of America’s continued support for energy governance, and commitment to regional security, to help Guyana build its disaster response capabilities.

Last January, the CDC operationalised the National Oil Spill

Response Plan (NOSRP) and the National Oil Spill Committee, in mobilising contingency plans and policy direction dealing with the management of national oil spill events.

The National Oil Spill Response Plan was drafted in 2018 by the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), and further strengthened by a working group which was led by the CDC. That draft document was handed over to Government, and the final plan was developed from comprehensive consultations, reviews, testing, and support from national stakeholders.

International partners such as the United States Coast Guard and the International Maritime

Organisation also played important roles.

The Committee is the body tasked with overseeing the policy development, revision of the plan, drafting of legislation and regulations, and making recommendations on relevant international conventions that would increase the nation’s capability to deal with, and minimize, incidents of oil spills pollution in Guyana’s environment.

According to CDC Director General Lieutenant Colonel Kester Craig, the Commission had reached out to the US State Department, having recognised that some of the capacity-building requirements are new and technical and thus require specialised training and appropriate equipment that

are not readily available in Guyana.

At the time of the launch last year, Prime Minister Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips had charged the National Oil Spill Committee to be proactive in finding and dealing with potential threats emanating from the oil and gas industry.

“Recognise the individual and institutional responsibilities which have been entrusted upon you. I urge that you prioritise proactivity in both your plans and actions, so that Guyana can aggressively and effectively manage the threats of our oil and gas industry, and attain the fruitful benefits to our economy, citizens, and national development.”

Prime Minister Phillips

added that, notwithstanding the vast potential the oil and gas industry possesses to propel Guyana’s growth, it brings with it additional environmental risks that must be taken seriously.

“It cannot be ignored that this industry also presents new threats and risks for our nation, which need to be effectively managed to ensure that our resources and ecosystems remain safe… This National Oil Spill Committee, therefore, has an immense task at hand, which is to oversee and coordinate the national efforts of ensuring that these negative impacts are avoided at all cost.”

Additionally, the PM called for improved collaboration among stakeholders.

(G8)

10 NEWS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

CANU unearths $14M worth of ganja on vessel at GNIC wharf T

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

he Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) unearthed $14 million worth of marijuana on a vessel docked at the Guyana National Industrial Company Incorporated (GNIC) Wharf, Lombard Street, Georgetown.

CANU officers conducted the narcotics operation at the GNIC Wharf, during which officers from the Special Operations section conducted a search on a vessel that was scheduled to leave Port Georgetown on Tuesday morning with a quantity of cement. Several parcels suspected to be cannabis were discovered throughout the vessel during this search. The vessel is foreign-registered, with

a crew of 19 foreign nationals. The parcels, along with the vessel’s crew, were taken to the CANU Headquarters for further processing, where the narcotic was tested and confirmed to be marijuana – a foreign type known as “creepy” with a total weight of 16.046kg (36lbs). The street value is approximately $14 million. CANU said if this narcotic had reached its intended destination, its street value would have been much higher.

CANU said the operation is part of an ongoing multi-agency and multi-national investigation aimed at dismantling a regional network involved in the movement of narcotics from Guyana using cargo vessels.

The drug that was found onboard the vessel moored at GNIC Wharf

Eccles resident crushed to death by container truck

The man’s body covered near the truck that crushed him

P

olice are investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal accident which occurred on Water Street, Georgetown, which took the life of 71-year-old Carlon Windsor Barrett of Victoria Avenue, Eccles, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

The accident occurred on Tuesday at about 14:30h and involved a container truck and an electric bike driven by the victim.

Investigations have so far revealed that an articulated motor lorry, GZZ

6378, with trailer TEE 6391 attached with a 40foot container laden with lumber, was proceeding south along the centre of the eastern carriageway of Water Street and as it approached Muneshwar Limited, the driver alleged that he put on his vehicle’s right-side indicator to turn west onto the western carriageway of the said road.

The driver said he then felt the right-side rear wheel of the trailer run over something, causing him to immediately stop

and exit his vehicle where he noticed the said wheel on top of the cyclist’s body and vehicle.

The ambulance service was contacted which arrived shortly on the scene with a team of Emergency Medical Technicians to examine the cyclist. They pronounced him dead at the scene.

A notice of intended prosecution was prepared and served on the driver as further investigations are continuing.

Miner sustains head injuries after falling from truck

A

44-year-old miner of Canal Bank, Port Kaituma, Region One (Barima-Waini), is nursing injuries to his head and body after he fell off a truck on Tuesday.

Injured is Dennis Bennette. Reports are that the incident occurred at around 19:15h along the 10 Miles Main Access Road, Port Kaituma, Region One.

Bennette was one of five occupants in the tray of the motor lorry which was driven by a 32-year-old man.

Reports are that the truck was travelling at a fast rate of speed when Bennette attempted to sit on the rail. During the process, he lost his balance and fell onto the road.

One of the occupants immediately alerted the

driver, who stopped the vehicle and rushed to the man’s aid. Bennette was picked up in a semi-unconscious condition and taken to the Port Kaituma District Hospital where he was admitted a patient in a stable condition.

The driver was taken into Police custody assisting with the investigations.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

S

aying January is the longest month out loud makes no sense because, in fact, it has 31 days like most months of the year. But many of us feel the same about January, annoyed at least because it seems so long.

Scientists have finally given an explanation as to why January actually feels long.

It’s all in the concept of “Time perception”. The concept is a rather tricky one to grasp, however, William Skylark – psychologist and author of Time Perception: The Surprising Effects of Surprising Stimuli – said it best. “Mental time is a pretty fragile metric for the physical duration” which implies that as humans we all experience time differently based on a range of factors affecting it.

So, of course, January

feels long, especially after following a packed month like December. December like January has 31 days but it is packed with holidays and events to look forward to so the month runs by quickly. While there is nothing to look forward to in January but work and school.

Someone, please cry me a river!

Dr Zhenguang Cai of the University College of London – who works on Time perceptions – con-

firms that “starting January after Christmas leads to boredom which leads to the impression that January is slowed down”.

When people say time seems to fly when we’re having fun, the dopamine clock hypothesis is an appropriate explanation.

When there is a higher level of dopamine, the neurotransmitters in our brains motivates and rewards us which speeds up our internal clock, making time seem to move faster.

Along with our internal clock speeding up things, our collective acknowledgement that January is long makes it feel longer. So it’s safe to say, there is nothing special about January. We’re sorry to break it to you, Capricorns and Aquarians, but January feels like two months in one.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

1. It’s cold but without the festivities

What’s even the point in it being freezing if you can’t stand by a bonfire with a glass of red wine?

Every morning it’s hard to get out of bed because

it feels like the air in your room is frozen and you’ll get frostbite if you remove your bedcovers. But there’s no fireworks night with sparklers or Christmas festivities to enjoy. Why, because it’s January, and nothing interesting happens in January.

2. It’s a long month

31 days. Why though?

Surely the universe could make January shorter purely because it’s such a hard month for us humans.

Yes, January is in the list of the longest months of the year. August also has 31 days but we don’t mind August, because we get

to enjoy glorious summer weather and ice creams.

3. The struggle to make $$$ last until payday is real

Whyyyy did you spend soo much in December?

Did your mum really need that Chanel perfume, really? It’s totally shocking when you work out how much you spent in December not only on presents but Christmas food and meals out (because YOLO, it’s nearly Xmas, so why not constantly treat ourselves).

Then comes January and we all feel sick to our stomach when we realise how far away payday is.

Most companies pay people early in December, which means waiting until the end of Jan is paiinnnfffullll.

4. You have to begin a New Year, and that’s scary

You feel like you have to solve all your life problems in one month. New year new goals, right? There’s so much pressure to make New Year’s Resolutions and generally be amazing once January begins.

The previous year is over, and we hope and wish for a great year ahead. It’s just an odd time of the year when a lot of people face up to some of their #lifeproblems. We wonder what 2022 might hold for us and sometimes this can create worries and fears.

5. The admin – policies are often up for renewal

Euugghhh whyyyyyyyy.

I don’t know if this is just

me, but in Jan I have several new policies up for renewal that require me to take action and sort shit out. And at this time of year, I just really don’t want to be overloaded with admin. My car insurance is up for renewal by the end of Jan, and of course, I’ll

naturally leave it until the very last minute but spend most of the month fretting about getting it done.

6. No one really wants to do anything

You’re bored at home, yet no-one really wants to do much in Jan. They’re

all too tired after the mayhem and family madness of Christmas. It’s just too much of an effort to arrange anything for a while.

The more you stay at home twiddling your thumbs, the more you fret about how CRAZY January is.

TURN TO PAGE 14

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM FROM PAGE 13

7. The general vibe is low key

There seems to be this universal January vibe in the air, and it’s hard to shake. Negativity is infectious and we all get sucked into the ‘urggghh January’ vicious cycle. I mean, everyone’s naturally going to be down now that Christmas is over for another whole year (though some people will be relieved). Those hardcore Xmas fans are almost in mourning for most of January.

they’re trying that’s going to make no difference to their long-term weight because they’re not sustainable. And as my life coach says; weight loss is all about changing your mindset.

10. You’re probs at your heaviest weight in Jan

For some reason in December, we feel like we’ve got the right to eat whatever we want without any consequences. Well, there usually are consequences – we put on weight. January is not only after Christmas, its mid-winter, so you’ve had months of getting festively plump. We need the extra insulation, am I right? Then we wake up on the first of Jan, with an insane need to detox and do 55030682 gym sessions and realise how big our belly has got.

long as possible which means they come down early January and our heart slowly breaks.

13. Going. Back. To. Work.

Noooo, please no. Why can’t we sit and watch Christmas movies in our pajamas whilst snacking on

crisps and chocolate all year round? That Christmas break is amazing but because you get used to having all that downtime, going back to work feels like the hardest thing in the world.

8. SAD symptoms continue

I’m not really sure when SAD is at its worst, but if I had to guess, it would be January. Because by Jan those suffering from the condition have had to battle through nearly four months of darkness.

9. You feel you have to diet after Xmas feasting Oh, I’m on the juicing keto no carb low calories zero sugar diet. Are youuu? That sounds fun. Not. In January every person feels the need to brag about the latest diet

14. Dry January pressure

11. So much darkness

You wake up, it’s dark. You get home from work, it’s even darker. The afternoons are insanely dull and you resent the fact that it looks so depressingly miserable outside. There’s just no escaping it. January is dark.

12. It’s really sad having to put away Christmas decorations

Why is taking down your Christmas tree so damn heartbreaking??? Is it because the Christmas lights are gone or because you know your tree will now slowly die and go a horrible brown colour whilst festering in your back garden? We often leave the decorations out for as

If you want a glass of wine, have one. Just do it in moderation. It’s pretty tough going from drinking all the wine, champagne and spirits throughout December to No Alcohol At all in January. And isn’t that going to make it harder to get through the month?

15.The January blues

Nothing to look forward to. Worries starting to build up. A lack of vitamin D. You’ll have heard of the January blues. It’s not surprising we feel a little down this month, all things considered. The January blues is like a disease that sweeps the nation. Hell, I’ve caught it, which is why I’m writing this blooming article.

TAKEN FROM: https://www.thecontentwolf.com/ life/16-reasons-why-january-really-is-the-worst-monthof-the-year/

NEWS

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NBS appeals against $79M payout

Court of Appeal to hear further arguments on March 1 paid pension and other benefits that were lawfully due to him.

While the Judge did not award Arjoon monetary damages for breach of his employment contract under the Common Law, he was awarded $4.1M for payment in lieu of notice, in accordance with Clause 10 of his contract; $16.1M for severance benefits; and some $59M for pension — which subsumes a lump sum pen-

ings accounts touching various matters, including loss of passbooks, acting on communication from overseas without signatures or address or notarisation.

The NBS is also seeking to set aside the ruling on the basis that the overriding defaults in Arjoon’s dealing with the withdrawals from the account of Bibi Shamina Khan were not taken into account by Justice Reynolds, nor did he consider that the

Maurice Arjoon

T

he full bench of the Guyana Court of Appeal will hear further arguments on March 1 in an appeal filed by the New Building Society Limited (NBS) against a ruling of High Court Justice Brassington Reynolds to award $79M in benefits to Maurice Arjoon, whom the court found had been wrongfully dismissed from that financial institution.

Represented by Ashton Chase, SC, and Pauline Chase, the NBS has moved to overturn the decision of the lower court, and has outlined over a dozen grounds in its Notice of Appeal.

Arjoon, who was dismissed from being Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the NBS over a decade ago, is represented by Senior Counsel Edward Luckhoo.

In July 2017, Arjoon was awarded $79,282,801 in outstanding payments and benefits by Justice Reynolds, some five years after he had filed a wrongful dismissal lawsuit seeking more than $500M in damages against his former employer. He had mounted the suit on the grounds that he was wrongfully dismissed and was not

sion of $17.4M and reduced monthly pension payments of $372,498 for the rest of his life.

Further, NBS was ordered to pay Arjoon costs in the sum of $200,000.

Meanwhile, at the Court of Appeal, the NBS argued, among other things, that on the basis of Justice Reynolds’s concluding that Arjoon was wrongfully dismissed, he was not entitled to severance pay by virtue of his status and contract, and according to the Termination of Employment and Severance Act. Further, lawyers for the NBS argued that the trial Judge did not take into account the “heavy loss” the NBS had suffered due to Arjoon’s non-compliance with reasonable practice of the System Manual and practise of operating sav-

person making the withdrawals from the account was not duly and properly authorised to do so, thereby causing NBS a loss of over $79 million.

The NBS contends that the Judge did not take into account the “falsity” of the Power of Attorney, the numerous errors in it, and Arjoon’s not sending it to the NBS lawyer or any other lawyer for checking on its validity before paying out such huge sums on it; and that it is clearly fraudulent and illegal, nor did he make any check on the local office covering Canada, or at any material time on Guyana’s office in Canada.

Arjoon’s lawyer, however, has outrightly rejected the NBS’ contentions, and is strongly arguing that there is no evidence that his client committed

Homeless man remanded on attempted murder charge

H

omeless man Jason Benjamin has been remanded to prison on an attempted murder charge.

The 58-year-old was on Wednesday arraigned in Magistrate Annette Singh’s Court at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on an allegation that on January 15, in Cemetery Road Georgetown, he unlawfully and maliciously wounded Brian Jaikaran with intent to commit murder.

The court was told that both men are homeless and sleep in the burial ground.

Benjamin’s next court date is March 2.

Meanwhile, in another matter, 20-year-old Omar Moore of Mandela Avenue, Squatting Area, Georgetown, who also was arraigned before Magistrate Annette Singh, was granted $30,000 bail on a wounding charge.

Particulars of that charge detail that on December 11,

2021, at East La Penitence, Georgetown, he unlawfully and maliciously wounded Andrew Jason with intent to maim, disfigure, disable, or cause him grievous bodily harm.

Moore initially pleaded guilty, but after hearing his explanation, the magistrate entered a not guilty plea on his behalf.

The prosecutor told the court that on the day in question, Moore saw Jason beat-

ing Moore’s brother with a belt, and Moore went to his brother’s rescue, during which the virtual complainant hit him and a fight ensued between them.

The complainant, who suffered a punctured lung among other injuries, is willing to accept compensation.

The matter has been adjourned to February 16 for a decision on compensation.

(G1)

any misconduct to warrant his dismissal. Following the lengthy High Court trial, Justice Reynolds, in relying on case law authorities, had found that NBS did not provide substantial evidence to prove that Arjoon had committed gross or serious misconduct which warranted his dismissal. As such, the Judge had held that it was unfair for Arjoon to be dismissed when the NBS had no system in place to prove that he was guilty of any wrongdoing.

According to the Judge, during the trial, NBS admitted that it had poor systemic procedures of adequate checks and balances for detecting gross or seri-

ous misconduct such as the allegations levelled against Arjoon.

Arjoon was fired from his position in connection with a Magistrate’s Court matter wherein he, former NBS Operations Manager Kent Vincent, and former NBS Assistant Mortgage Manager Kissoon Baldeo were all accused of conspiracy to defraud the NBS of $69 million. The court matter was eventually dismissed, and Arjoon and the others took the financial institution to court in 2011.

An investigation had claimed that the fraud was committed in 2006, and the men were all fired the next year, after it had alleged-

ly been determined that the men were at fault for dereliction of duty, negligence, and/or serious misconduct.

The NBS had contended that an unauthorised withdrawal of nearly $70 million had been made from an account that its client Bibi Shamina Khan held.

The NBS’s issue with the withdrawal was that it was made through a Power of Attorney, and the company had implicated Arjoon for misconduct. It was reported that Arjoon said he was set up on the fraud allegations because he had refused to approve a loan a $2B loan which was applied for in 2006. (G1)

16 NEWS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Possession of small quantities of ganja

Stakeholders to be invited to make submissions on removing custodial sentences N

early one year after the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) (Amendment) Bill was tabled in the National Assembly, the Parliamentary Special Select Committee has finally commenced work to review the proposals which include the removal of custodial sentences for persons found in possession of 30 grams and below of cannabis.

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Anil Nandlall is the Chairman of the Committee. During this week’s edition of his weekly programme – Issues In The News – Nandlall disclosed that the Committee met on Tuesday to roll out its work

programme for this year.

As a result, a decision was taken to invite stakeholders to make submissions on the proposed amendments to the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act. “We decided that we will invite by public advertisements or by public notices, members of public to make their submissions in writing to Committee and timeframes will be set out in those public notices. And at the next meeting, providing that we receive the requested submissions, those submissions would be reviewed and then the committee would determine whether we would like to hear oral presentations from any of those who chose to submit

in writing,” he explained.

According to Nandlall, they will also look at whether any important stakeholders failed to make submissions and reach out to them.

This, he noted, is to ensure that everyone has an input on the proposed amendments.

“So, work has begun in that committee… and hopefully we will accelerate the works…,” the Minister asserted.

Last January, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government tabled the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) (Amendment) Bill with proposals to remove custodial sentences for small amounts of cannabis.

“Birdman” for trial over 2015 murder of mechanic

Murder accused Sedley Liverpool

Convicted killer Kenkossie Lynch

12-member mixed jury was on Tuesday empanelled by Justice Brassington Reynolds for the trial of Sedley Liverpool, who is accused of the June 2015 murder of Mocha, East Bank Demerara (EBD) mechanic Terrence Lanferman.

Liverpool, called “Birdman,” has pleaded not guilty to the charge, which stated that on June 1, 2015, in the county of Demerara, he murdered 23-year-old Lanferman.

Liverpool is being represented by Attorney-at-Law Ravindra Mohabir, while Senior State Counsel Lisa Cave and State Counsel Taneisha Saygon are appearing for the prosecution. The trial commences next Monday.

The prosecution is expected to call a total of 15

witnesses, including Police ranks and a pathologist.

In May 2019, Liverpool’s cousin Kenkossie Lynch was found guilty of Lanferman’s murder, and was sentenced to 75 years in prison by Justice Navindra Singh.

Reports are that there had been a feud between Liverpool and Lanferman, and according to reports, Lynch and his cousin met and conspired to attack Lanferman, after which both of them visited the mechanic’s home on a motorcycle.

It has been reported that Lynch went to Lanferman’s home armed with a gun that his cousin had given to him. While Lynch was at the home, his cousin waited on him some distance away.

Lynch knocked on the door and confronted Lanferman,

A

Dead: Terrence Lanferman

who had opened the door, and he shot Lanferman before making good his escape.

Lynch has since filed, at the Appeal Court, an appeal against his conviction and sentence, in which he argues that the trial Judge made several errors in law. He argues, too, that the Judge failed to adequately put his defence to the jury, and that the sentence is manifestly excessive in the circumstances of the case.

Meanwhile, at a sentencing hearing, Justice Singh had told Lynch that he murdered a man he did not know and with whom he had had no problem.

“This was a premeditated crime…you staked out and waited on the opportune time to kill this man,” the Judge had said to the convicted killer. (G1)

The Bill has since been with the Special Select Committee, where it was sent for further consultations.

According to Nandlall, Tuesday’s meeting was the second one the Committee has held.

Nevertheless, with the work now starting, Nandlall pointed out that this is yet another one of the manifesto promises that the PPP/C Government is fulfilling.

“We are delivering on our promise. The APNU/AFC (A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change) made a similar promise.

They even brought a Bill to the National Assembly which they killed themselves; they never brought it forward… I just want to pause there to show the difference between the two political parties. We are delivering on our promise,” the Attorney General posited.

The Amendment Bill proposes for persons who are found in possession of 15 grams and below of cannabis to be sentenced to counselling; and for those who are in possession of over 15 grams up to 30 grams to be sentenced to community work. This includes employment in public work under the Extra-Mural Work Act for a maximum of six months.

Under the current law, possession of 15 grams or more could attract a trafficking charge with a prison sentence of three to five

years, and a fine of no less than $30,000 or three times the market value of the drug.

C o n s e q u e n t l y , Government’s Bill proposes to increase the quantity of cannabis that would automatically attract a trafficking charge to more than 30 grams.

The proposed amendments also seek to remove the fine and prison term for smoking, inhaling, sniffing, or otherwise using cannabis or for being found in a place used for that purpose, or being the owner, occupier, or concerned in the management of any place used for the preparation of cannabis for that purpose.

However, while the clause removes the fine and jail time for smoking cannabis in places where cigarette smoking is also banned, it imposes a $10,000 fine for a first offence and a $20,000 penalty for a second or subsequent offence.

The Bill also caters for those instances where an offender may refuse to consent or breach an order of mandatory counselling or community service. The amended Act would grant the court the discretion to order the offender to pay a fine of $250,000 where it sees fit.

The amendments are meant to reduce the burden on the justice system, and also covers issues like recidivism and prison overcrowding. This would not

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, SC

only save the State money, but would also help to keep families together and rebuild communities affected and disadvantaged by the incarceration of persons, especially youth.

The amendments to the law are meant to reduce the burden on the justice system, including overcrowding the prisons as well as keeping families together and rebuild communities affected by the incarceration of persons, especially youth.

Meanwhile, the coalition Opposition had tabled its own Narcotics Bill in which it proposes to raise the trafficking charge to 500 grams.

However, AG Nandlall had dismissed this proposal in the National Assembly, stating that the drastic increase was unrealistic especially since the issue of trafficking was one that should receive special consideration. (G8)

Pomeroon man killed in boat accident …chopped by engine's propeller

P

olice are continuing their investigations into the circumstances surrounding the death of a 23-year-old man following a boat mishap along the Kaituma River, Region One (Barima-Waini).

Chive Persaud of Jacklow, Upper Pomeroon River, was heading into Port Kaituma in a passenger boat when the accident occurred at around 20:00h on Tuesday.

At the time of the accident, there was other passengers on the boat which was captained by a 48-yearold man who is currently in

Police custody.

Upon receiving the report of the mishap, Police responded to the scene where the victim was found on the stern of the boat with multiple injuries to his upper body.

The now dead man’s girlfriend, Britney Walcott told this publication that based on information she received, Persaud was chopped about his body by the engine’s propeller.

How this happened is yet to be determined as investigations are ongoing.

Walcott said she is shocked by the news and

Dead: Chive Persaud

that coming to grips with this reality is going to be “very hard”.

Persaud leaves to mourn his parents and two sisters.

17 Chris Jones ditches bid for PNCR Vice Chairman position NEWS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

…PNCR Executives now all from Norton’s slate

V

inceroy Jordan is set to become the second Vice Chairperson of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) Executive after Christopher Jones announced on Wednesday that he would be stepping aside.

At the party’s 21st Biennial Delegates Congress held in December 2021, Jordan and Jones tied after obtaining the same number of votes for the position of PNCR Vice Chairperson.

Describing the situation as “unprecedented”, Jones said in a statement on Wednesday that while the PNCR’s membership expressed their confidence in both of their abilities to serve the Party, he believes that the younger leaders should be given the opportunity to serve. “…I see it fit to make way for young, fresh and vibrant leaders, like Mr. Jordan, to take the PNCR into the future,” the former PNCR youth leader stated.

According to Jones,

who is currently a Member of Parliament and the Opposition Chief Whip in the National Assembly for the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC), he considered and discussed his decision at length with the leadership of the PNCR. With the party’s leadership already been informed of his intention to step aside, Jones expressed his confidence in Jordan’s ability to further advance the party’s development agenda.

“I am confident in Mr Jordan’s ability to serve the Party well in this position and to bring fresh ideas and perspective to the Leadership. I look forward to working with him and by extension the full complement of the Executive, as we move towards the development, advancement and upliftment of our Party’s base and the Guyanese people,” he asserted.

Nevertheless, Jones indicated that he still remains

Christopher Jones

a member of the PNCR’s Central Executive Committee (CEC), having won the second highest votes, and will continue to function as an executive member of “the mighty PNCR”.

There were two spots for the post of Vice Chairman at last month’s Congress. The first was secured by Elizabeth Niles-Williams, while Jones and Jordan tied with 381 votes each for the second spot.

Chief Election Officer of

the party’s congress, Vincent Alexander had recommended a by-election be held to resolve the tie between the two.

Jones had always been an advocate for youth leaders.

In fact, at the party’s last Biennial Congress in 2018, where he had topped the list of CEC members with the greatest number of votes, he had pledged to open the field for young party members to partake at the leadership level.

Last month’s Congress saw a shake-up in the entire leadership of the PNCR – the leading party in the APNU faction of the coalition Opposition.

Aubrey Norton was elected as the new PNCR Leader, while Member of Parliament Shurwayne Holder is the new Chairman of the party.

Norton had defeated current Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon and party member Dr Richard Van West-Charles to secure a landslide victory.

Vice Chairperson,

Vinceroy Jordan

Elizabeth Niles. Earlier this month, PNCR announced that Norton has appointed Opposition MP Geeta Chandan-Edmond as the party’s General Secretary, replacing PNCR stalwart Amna Ally.

Two weeks ago, however, Norton disclosed that the new Central Executive Committee has decided that as leader, he should also sit in the National Assembly as the Leader of the Opposition and hold the post of Head of the APNU/AFC

List of Candidates.

Harmon, who was appointed Opposition Leader by former PNCR Leader David Granger who is the current Head of the List, has refused to step aside from the post.

In fact, the APNU faction, which comprises of several small parties with the PNCR holding the majority stakes, has also objected to this.

Nevertheless, Harmon and Norton have been engaging in discussions on the issue.

Last week, Norton told reporters those talks did not result in any concrete decision.

He was tight-lipped about those discussions, stating that it is an internal matter that will be deliberated on and when a decision is made, it will be announced.

“It’s an internal matter and we will discuss it internally. Once we would have completed those discussions, I will inform the press,” the new PNC Leader told media operatives. (G8)

Massive fire at Laparkan

Dartmouth protests

Police clear blocked roadway of debris Investigators examining CCTV footage – Fire Chief

I

Protesters blocking the Essequibo Coast public road on Tuesday during a protest at Dartmouth village

F

ollowing protests due to the dissatisfaction of family members and residents of Dartmouth village regarding the charge laid against the Police rank who shot Orin Boston, the Police have managed to clear the blocked roadway.

Relatives and residents of Dartmouth village, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), on Tuesday 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.

SWAT member Sherwin Peters was on Friday last charged for manslaughter and

terrupting the free flow of traffic.

The area including the

Dartmouth bridge was cleared of debris in the wee hours of Wednesday morn-

released on $1 million bail.

However, the protesters were calling for him to be charged for murder and as such blocked the access bridge, in-

ing by Police along with assistance of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and the Guyana Fire Service.

Meanwhile, Boston’s fa-

ther expressed grave disappointment with the manslaughter charge that was

nvestigators from the Guyana Fire Service are examining Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) footage as they continue their probe into the massive fire which destroyed millions of dollars’ worth of items stored in a bond at the Guyana National Industrial Company Incorporated (GNIC).

Fire Chief Gregory Wickham told this publication on Wednesday that the fire investigation team are examining CCTV footage from the cameras located at the wharf at Lombard Street, Georgetown.

clothing, household appliances and other items were de-

The aftermath of the fire The cleared roadway on Wednesday morning

laid Friday last on Constable Peters, who shot and killed the businessman during an anti-crime operation.

Boston was shot by the 32-year-old Police Constable on September 15, 2021, during an anti-crime operation. At the time of the shooting, Police ranks were conducting an anti-crime operation in Division Two (Essequibo Coast) and entered Boston’s house to conduct a search for prohibited and illegal items.

However, during the search, there was a confrontation between Boston and the rank, resulting in him being shot to his upper left arm.

“We are still carrying out investigative work, as we speak, the team, they are looking at the CCTV camera footage and so on.”

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

The Guyana Fire Service (GFS), in a recent statement on the matter, said Tropical Shipping Company sustained water damage and minor fire damage. Additionally, propane cylinders, a quantity of barrels containing food stuff,

stroyed.

On the other hand, the

GFS noted that Laparkan Trading suffered the loss of one Bobcat machine, a quantity of office furniture, gas cylinders, crates of energy drinks, three 40 feet containers containing electrical cables and flex hoses, three electrical transformers and three 40 feet refrigeration containers. In addition, eleven vehicles were also destroyed while five were severely damaged and three others were slightly damaged.

Laparkan Company Manager Bodhan Nipan had recently noted that the company is doing its best to make sure that business flow is not impeded and also to address affected customers.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022

Regional

Barbados Elections: Party leaders CAL plane’s windshield confident of victory after casting ballot cracks mid-air, flight diverted

T

he leaders of the two main political parties have cast their ballots in Wednesday’s general election, with both expressing confidence of securing victory in a poll that was called 18 months before the constitutional deadline.

Prime Minister Mia Mottley, speaking to reporters after casting her ballot at the Eden Lodge Primary School, told reporters that while she is a “little concerned” that the supporters of the ruling Barbados Labour Party (BLP) were “still slow in coming out” she was nonetheless confident of a victory.

Mottley had led the BLP to a massive 30-nil sweep of the Parliament in 2018 and told reporters, “This election will become to be recognised as perhaps one of the most important since independence and it is in the people’s hands to decide what they have to do.

Barbados gained independence on November 30, 1966.

The Electoral Boundaries Commission (EBC) has put in place strict measures as a result of the pandemic and Mottley told reporters, “By all reports there were no issues with respect to the COVID Monitoring Unit.

“I sanitised three times in a short space of time within five minutes, so clearly the right type protocols, temperatures etc…so persons need not worry with that aspect of it.

“Failure to vote means you might end up with a situation you really did not want and we have to accept that we are responsible for our own destiny and that’s why the vote is so important. So, what you do today determines what hap-

A

Prime Minister Mia Mottley checking documents before voting (Photo: CMC)

pens for the next five years.

“So as I said we will stay focus, my duty is to get the Barbados Labour Party vote out across the island and that’s what we working to do,” she told reporters.

Attorney Verla De Peiza, who is leading the main opposition Democratic Labour Party (DLP) into the election, said she is “quietly confident” of victory after casting her ballot in the St Lucy constituency.

But she was critical of the outgoing Mottley Administration for its failure to ensure that all Barbadians, including those who have tested positive for COVID-19 are allowed to vote for a government of their choice.

“We are looking forward to a good day. We are quietly confident. We ran our ground game. We stuck to our plan, and we do believe that it is a winning formula,” she said, adding “our manifesto, the economists couldn’t find any problems with it, which means that we have quite the selling point for the people of Barbados” “There are (World Health

Organisation) guidelines for how to run an election in a pandemic,” De Peiza said, noting that “other countries made provisions and it is either sloppy or it a symptom of an uncaring government that this one didn’t bother to make the effort.”

She acknowledged that there were some early challenges in the voting process resulting from the fact that the election was rushed.

But she praised the EBC who she noted is determined to find solutions to the issues that arise.

A total of 108 candidates, representing seven political parties and nine independents are contesting the poll that political observers say will be a straight fight between the BLP and the DLP. It is the first time in Barbados history that the two main political parties are being led into an election by a woman, and the EBC said 266,330 persons have been registered to vote and are eligible to cast ballots at the polling stations scattered across the 30 constituencies. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Jamaican infant dies after being left in cop’s car unattended

P

olice are probing the circumstances surrounding the death of an infant girl after she was left unattended in her father’s motor car on the compound of the Black River police station on Monday.

A police source confirmed that the child is the daughter of a policeman assigned to the station.

The child died in hospital on Wednesday morning, two days after she was reportedly left in the policeman’s car for several hours.

When contacted, head of the police’s Corporate C o m m u n i c a t i o n s Unit (CCU) Senior Superintendent Stephanie Lindsay confirmed the incident, but could not give specific details. (Jamaica Observer)

Former FARC captive Ingrid Betancourt announces presidential bid

T

he former Colombian senator, Ingrid Betancourt, has announced she will run for President again, 20 years after being kidnapped by leftwing rebels.

Betancourt was campaigning in the 2002 presidential election when she was abducted by Farc rebels and held hostage for over six years.

She has pledged to tackle corruption and poverty if she wins May’s poll.

“Today I am here to finish what I started,” she told supporters in the country’s capital city of Bogotá.

“I am here to claim

the rights of 51 million Colombians who are not finding justice, because we live in a system designed to reward criminals,” she said.

The Farc rebels were a Marxist group that waged a bitter war against the Colombian Government for over 50 years, before eventually calling a ceasefire in 2016.

The centrist Betancourt is entering a packed field in the election, with more than 20 candidates already declared.

Gustavo Petro, the leftist former Mayor of Bogotá and a one-time member of the revolutionary guerrilla group M-19, is currently leading in

opinion polls.

Many Colombians see him as an alternative to the current right-of-centre president, Ivan Duque, who is prevented from seeking re-election by term limits and who has seen his popularity plummet in recent polls.

Despite her fame internationally, Betancourt has maintained a low profile since her rescue in 2008

by Colombian military forces and faces a tough primary battle to win the nomination of the centrist coalition that includes her party, Green Oxygen. (Excerpt from BBC News)

“technical issue” forced a Caribbean Airlines flight to be diverted to Norfolk, Virginia, in the United States of America, this morning.

BW520 departed Piarco at 11:48 pm and was en route to New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport when cracks developed in the jet’s windshield.

Guardian Media understands 111 passengers and crew were on board.

Data from flight-tracking website Flightradar24.com shows that at 3:34 am, the aircraft slowed from 427 knots

to 309 knots and descended from 38,000 feet to 27,000

BW520’s flight path showing the diversion to Norfolk, Virginia (Photo courtesy FlightRadar24.com)

feet in the space of eight minutes. This is most likely as a result of crew action, as this is the standard operating proce-

dure in such a situation. The aircraft continued its descent

and landed safely at 4:36 am in Virginia.

In a press release issued at 11:20 am, Caribbean Airlines confirmed the incident saying: “The aircraft is on the ground at Norfolk and the airline is in contact with all persons affected by the disruption. The passengers have been accommodated and arrangements are being made to get them to their final destinations.”

The flight was being operated by a 23-year-old Boeing 737-800NG, registered as 9Y-GEO. (T&T Guardian)

Venezuelan migrant girl dies crossing river between Mexico and US

T

he body of a girl thought to be Venezuelan was found in the waters of the Rio Grande river between Mexico and United States, officials said on Tuesday, the latest instance in which a migrant has died while trying to reach the United States.

US authorities had requested help to find a missing girl who was wearing a red jacket, jeans and white socks. Mexican migration officials found the girl’s body in a stretch of river in Ciudad Acuna, bordering Texas.

Mexico’s migration institute said in a statement it lamented the girl’s death. It released a photo showing two officials in orange life vests lifting a child’s body from the water by the shoulders and

ankles.

Many migrants have died while crossing Mexico to its northern border with the United States, including both adults and children who have drowned while trying to ford the river that divides the two countries.

The number of Venezuelans crossing Mexico leapt in 2021, and Mexico’s Government this month imposed new visa requirements for visitors from Venezuela to try to curb migration. (Excerpt from Reuters)

US Navy captures $22M in cocaine during an operation in Caribbean

T

he US Navy’s USS Milwaukee, accompanied by US Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment (LEDET), has captured an estimated $22 million in suspected cocaine during an operation in the Caribbean Sea. A maritime patrol aircraft spotted a suspected drug smuggling go-fast boat during patrolling. They have also witnessed packages being thrown out into the water.

After getting permitted to conduct a search on-board, the authorities captured and recovered the packages.

Smugglers were arrested from the spot around five of the suspected drugs.

According to the information released by the authorities, the estimated 315 kilograms of suspected cocaine worth approximately $22 million was recovered.

Meanwhile, LEDET’s officer in charge, Lt Jordan Lachowsky, said, “we are very pleased with the effectiveness of everyone’s response and the integration of all parties in-

volved.”

“We are looking ahead for more opportunities and more success ahead in the future.”

USS Milwaukee was deployed to the US 4th Fleet area to support Joint Interagency Task Force South’s mission, which involves counter-illicit drug trafficking missions in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific. (Associate Times)

guyanatimesgy.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022

19

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS

Ukraine tension: Biden says he thinks Putin will 'move in'

As inflation breaks records, $100 oil is also looming

A

lready less transitory than forecast, central bankers' inflation headache may be about to become more acute as they face the prospect of US$100-plus oil that lifts consumers' price expectations and intensifies simmering wage hike pressures.

Brent crude futures, which soared 50 per cent in 2021, are up a further 14 per cent already in 2022 at seven-year highs of US$89 a barrel. With production capacity tight, inventories low and geopolitics racking several producing regions, oil is hurtling towards US$100, a level Goldman Sachs predicts will be breached by midyear.

JPMorgan predicts oil could reach US$125 a barrel this year and US$150 in 2023.

It is possible the net impact of a US$12 price rise from here would not be massive, as headline inflation rates already reflect jumps in energy prices from a year ago. Economies, especially in the West, are meanwhile far less energy intensive than even a decade ago.

Rate hikes in countries including Britain and Norway, and hints from central banks such as the US Federal Reserve, which may signal next week how fast it plans to tighten policy, have checked inflation expectations from tracking oil prices higher.

But policymakers had reckoned on base effects kicking in as the 2021 oil surge abated, tempering year-on-year inflation.

Many also argue the psychological impact of US$100 oil cannot be understated, especially as consumers, businesses and politicians fret over inflation at multi-decade or record highs; the latest US consumer price reading was 7 per cent, a 40 year-peak. read more Wednesday's data showing British consumer inflation at 30year highs underscores how the energy effect is cascading into food and hospitality prices.

"It could be the cherry on the inflation cake if we don't get a moderation in energy prices," said Frederik Ducrozet, a strategist at Pictet Wealth Management.

"This time it's a bit different because we're already at a point where the risks are tilted up and central banks are worried about a wage-price spiral since energy prices contribute to second-round effects."

Citi's inflation surprise indexes have hit record or multi-year peaks in Europe and elsewhere, indicating readings have come in higher than expected.

If oil does hit US$100 and stays there, it will throw into disarray policymakers' calculations -- European Central Bank projections for example assume Brent at US$77.5 in 2022, declining to US$69.4 by 2024.

Crucially, it could also induce businesses to pass costs to consumers, or workers to demand higher wages. These so-called second-round effects can cause a broader inflationary spiral that pressures central banks to act.

The effects differ from country to country but in the euro area, a 10 per cent rise in oil adds roughly 0.5 per cent to inflation, though direct effects tend to fade quickly.

For the United States, a paper published in November on the CESifo research network by two Dallas Fed researchers estimated that a US$100 oil scenario would raise the year-over-year PCE inflation gauge by 1.8 percentage points (pp) at the end of 2021, and 0.4 pp by end-2022.

The core personal consumption expenditures index, the Fed's preferred inflation measure, would rise by 0.4 pp and 0.3 pp in 2021 and 2022, respectively. That would see one-year household inflation expectations rise 1.2 pp but add just 0.2 pp to five-year expectations, the study said. (Excerpt from Reuters)

US President Joe Biden

Russian President Vladimir Putin

S President Joe Biden has said he thinks his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin will "move in" on Ukraine, but does not want "fullblown war".

Asked at a news conference about the threat of a Russian invasion, he said: "My guess is he will move in, he has to do something."

But he warned that the Russian leader would pay a "serious and dear price" for "testing" the West.

Moscow denies planning

to attack or invade but has built up its forces.

It is estimated to have about 100,000 troops close to Ukraine's borders.

Russia has made a raft of demands to Western governments, including that Ukraine should never join Nato and that the defensive alliance's military activities should be limited in member states including Poland.

Talks between the West and Russia last week failed to reach a breakthrough, with some of Moscow's de-

U

T

In their text, senators clearly said the amendment aims at banning “the wearing of the veil in sports competitions”. They added that headscarves can put at risk the safety of athletes wearing them when they practise their discipline.

The amendment, proposed by the right-wing group Les Republicains and opposed by the French government, was adopted with 160 votes in favour and 143 against. A commission composed of mem-

was about the possibility of a conflict in Ukraine sucking in neighbouring Nato states, he said: "The only war that is worse than one that's intended is when it's unintended and what I'm concerned about is that this could get out of hand.

"I am hoping that Vladimir Putin understands that he is, short of a full-blown nuclear war, he is not in a very good position to dominate the world. And so I don't think he thinks that, but it is a concern."

He also said it was "very important" Nato allies stay on the same page in the face of a potential Russian attack.

Despite delivering a stern message, Mr Biden said that the US remains open for discussions with Russia and that a summit with Mr Putin is still a "possibility."

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is to meet Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Geneva on Friday, after a visit to Ukraine and talks with European allies in Berlin.

(BBC)

“In the name of God, go”: UK's Johnson faces demands to resign

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson

B

ritish Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday dismissed calls to resign from opponents and some of his own lawmakers, fighting to save his premiership amid a deepening revolt inside his party over a series of lockdown parties in

Downing Street.

Johnson, who in 2019 won his party's biggest majority in more than 30 years, is now fighting to shore up his authority after a series of revelations about parties in his Downing Street residence during COVID lockdowns.

Johnson has repeatedly apologised for the parties and said he was unaware of many of them.

However, he attended what he said he thought was a work event on May 20, 2020 to which staff had been told to "bring their own booze".

Johnson said on Tuesday that nobody had told him the gathering was against COVID rules.

"I expect my leaders to shoulder the responsibility for the actions they take," Brexitsupporting Conservative lawmaker David Davis told Parliament.

French senators vote to ban hijab in sports competitions

he French Senate has voted in favour of banning the wearing of hijabs in sports competitions, arguing that neutrality is a requirement on the field of play.

The French upper legislative house voted late on Tuesday in favour of amending a proposed law stipulating that the wearing “of conspicuous religious symbols is prohibited” to take part in events and competitions organised by sports federations.

mands rejected as non-starters.

Russia annexed Ukraine's Crimean peninsula in 2014 after the overthrow of a pro-Russian government in Ukraine. It has supported pro-Russian rebels who control parts of eastern Ukraine in a bloody war with government forces.

There are fears that the conflict, which has cost at least 13,000 lives and caused at least two million people to flee their homes, may reignite, with the Russian military openly intervening.

Asked for his views on Mr Putin's intentions, Mr Biden said: "Do I think he'll test the West? Test the United States and Nato as significantly as he can? Yes, I think he will but I think he'll pay a serious and dear price for it."

"He's never seen sanctions like the ones I promised will be imposed if he moves," Mr Biden said, adding that the exact level of punishment would depend on the scale of any invasion.

Asked how concerned he

bers from the Senate and the lower house should now gather to find a compromise on the text before it is published, meaning the amendment can still be erased.

It is unclear whether the ban would be implemented for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The Olympic organising committee did not immediately answer a request for comment.

The vote came a year after legislators in the French Parliament’s lower house ap-

proved a bill to strengthen oversight of mosques, schools and sports clubs in a bid to safeguard France from “radical Islamists” and to promote “respect for French values” – one of President Emmanuel Macron’s landmark projects.

France has been hit by several attacks in recent years.

But critics also see the law as a political ploy to lure the right wing to Macron’s centrist party ahead of this year’s presidential election. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Davis cited a quote from a Conservative lawmaker, Leo Amery, to then Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain over his handling of war in 1940: "You have sat there too long for the good you have done. In the name of God, go."

Asked directly by an opposition lawmaker if he would resign, Johnson said: "No".

Toppling Johnson would leave the United Kingdom in limbo for months just as the West deals with the Ukraine

crisis and the world's fifth largest economy grapples with the inflationary wave triggered by the COVID pandemic, with UK inflation rising to the highest level in nearly 30 years.

To trigger a leadership challenge, 54 of the 360 Conservative MPs in Parliament must write letters of no confidence to the chairman of the party's 1922 Committee. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Germany begins trial of Syrian doctor for crimes against humanity

G

erman prosecutors accused a Syrian doctor Wednesday of torturing detainees and killing one of them while working in military hospitals in his war-torn homeland, on the first day of a landmark crimes against humanity trial in Frankfurt.

The accused, identified as Alaa M under German privacy laws, arrived in Germany in 2015 where he continued to practise medicine until his arrest.

The trial at Frankfurt’s higher regional court is the second of its kind in Germany, and adds to other European efforts to hold loyalists of President Bashar al-Assad’s government to account for alleged war-era atrocities.

Alaa M faces 18 counts of torturing detainees at military hospitals in Homs and Damascus in 2011-12, includ-

ing setting fire to a teenage boy’s genitals.

He also faces one count of murder, for having allegedly administered a lethal injection to a prisoner who resisted being beaten.

The accused helped to perpetrate “a systematic attack on the civilian population,” said federal prosecutor Anna Zabeck as she read out the charge sheet.

He “tortured detainees by inflicting substantial bodily harm on them”, she told the court.

He has denied the allegations.

His trial came after another German court last week sentenced a former Syrian colonel to life in jail for overseeing the murder of 27 people and the torture of 4000 others at a Damascus detention centre a decade ago.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

20

THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022

guyanatimesgy.com

DAILY HOROSCOPES

ARCHIE

(March 21-April 19)

Don't waste time. Have a conversation with someone who can help you reach your goals. A change to how you earn or handle your money will require attention. Don't put your trust in someone else.

Uncertainty will test your patience.

Separate yourself from situations that are beyond your control. Make personal improvements and spend time with someone who lifts your spirits. Romance is in the stars.

DILBERT (April 20-May 20)

Keep life simple. Don't overdo it or let your emotions take charge. Stick to the truth and make only necessary changes.

How you conduct yourself around others will determine your success.

(May 21-June 20)

PEANUTS (June 21-July 22)

Reach out to friends and relatives. A demonstrative approach will grab attention and encourage others to support you. Share your feelings and intentions, and it will enhance a meaningful relationship.

Listen to suggestions, make adjustments and finish what you start. Leave nothing to chance or in someone else's hands. You can make a difference if you step up and work hard.

(July 23-Aug. 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Channel your energy and anger into something physical. Use your pent-up emotions to accomplish something positive instead of letting them bring you down. Choose peace, love and happiness over discord.

Keep your money, possessions and personal papers in a safe place. Sharing information can backfire and cost you financially if you are too trusting. Pay attention to what others do and say.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23) Look at what others do and listen to what they are saying. An emotional situation will reopen old wounds if left to fester. Be open to suggestions, but don't make changes to appease others.

SUDOKU (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Refuse to step outside your comfort zone, regardless of the temptation. Keep your life simple, meaningful and cost-efficient. Don't be distracted by pie-in-thesky conversations.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21) mprove your surroundings to suit your lifestyle. Move things around and get rid of clutter. You'll feel relieved when you have free space to pursue an enjoyable activity.

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Dig in and do your part. What you bring to the table will put you in a position of leadership. Lend a helping hand, and you'll gain perspective regarding life, love and happiness.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

(Feb. 20-March 20)

Put your energy where it counts; if you take on too much, you'll find it challenging to get things done. Reach out to people you can count on for help. A change you make will elicit compliments.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022

21

India vs South Africa: ODI Series, first match…

Tons by Rassie van der Dussen and Temba Bavuma set up comfortable win for South Africa

Shikhar Dhawan scored 79

A

sparkling century from Rassie van der Dussen was complemented by a well-paced one from Temba Bavuma as South Africa cantered to a 31-run win over India in the first ODI of a three-match series.

SCOREBOARD SOUTH AFRICA INNINGS (50 OVERS MAXIMUM) Quinton de Kock † b Ashwin 27 Janneman Malan c †Pant b Bumrah 6 Temba Bavuma (c) c Rahul b Bumrah 110 Aiden Markram run out (VR Iyer) 4 Rassie van der Dussen not out 129 David Miller not out 2 Extras (lb 6, nb 3, w 9) 18 TOTAL (50 Ov, RR: 5.92) 296/4 Did not bat: Andile Phehlukwayo, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi Fall of wickets: 1-19 (Janneman Malan, 4.2 ov), 2-58 (Quinton de Kock, 15.1 ov), 3-68 (Aiden Markram, 17.4 ov), 4-272 (Temba Bavuma, 48.1 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Jasprit Bumrah 10-0-48-2 Bhuvneshwar Kumar 10-0-64-0 Shardul Thakur 10-1-72-0 Ravichandran Ashwin 10-0-53-1 Yuzvendra Chahal 10-0-53-0 INDIA INNINGS (TARGET: 297 RUNS FROM 50 OVERS) KL Rahul (c) c †de Kock b Markram 12 Shikhar Dhawan b Maharaj 79

Virat Kohli c Bavuma b Shamsi 51 Rishabh Pant † st †de Kock b Phehlukwayo 16 Shreyas Iyer c †de Kock b Ngidi 17 Venkatesh Iyer c van der Dussen b Ngidi 2 Ravichandran Ashwin b Phehlukwayo 7 Shardul Thakur not out 50 Bhuvneshwar Kumar c Bavuma b Shamsi 4 Jasprit Bumrah not out 14 Extras (b 2, w 11) 13 TOTAL (50 Ov, RR: 5.30) 265/8 Did not bat: Yuzvendra Chahal Fall of wickets: 1-46 (KL Rahul, 8.3 ov), 2-138 (Shikhar Dhawan, 25.3 ov), 3-152 (Virat Kohli, 28.2 ov), 4-181 (Shreyas Iyer, 33.5 ov), 5-182 (Rishabh Pant, 34 ov), 6-188 (Venkatesh Iyer, 35.5 ov), 7-199 (Ravichandran Ashwin, 38.3 ov), 8-214 (Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 42.2 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Aiden Markram 6-0-30-1 Marco Jansen 9-0-49-0 Keshav Maharaj 10-0-42-1 Lungi Ngidi 10-0-64-2 Tabraiz Shamsi 10-1-52-2 Andile Phehlukwayo 5-0-26-2

Van der Dussen joined Bavuma when South Africa were 68 for 3 in the 18th over, but they shrugged off that rickety start to eventually drive the team to 296 for 4 on a slow Boland Park pitch.

India were on track in the first half of their chase, particularly when Virat Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan were batting together in a 92-run stand for the second wicket, but the innings withered after they both fell.

Bavuma and van der Dussen put on 204 runs in just 183 balls, conquering bowlers and conditions. In particular, van der Dussen's knock took the first innings, and it turned the Temba Bavuma match away from India. In the anchored the innings end, he remained unconquered with a century on an ODI best of 129 off just 96 balls.

His innings included four hits over the fence and nine to it, with more than half his runs coming via running between the wickets - this on a day when the heat was sapping. In the final over of South Africa's innings, van der Dussen was often down on his haunches to gather his breath, but it was his batting that left those watching breathless.

He got off the blocks quickly, injecting much-needed momentum into the innings, using sweeps and reverse sweeps to devastating effect against the spin duo of Yuzvendra Chahal and R Ashwin. The feature of van der Dussen's innings was how he took the pitch out of the equation. Till his arrival, scoring had been laborious. But his use of the square boundaries, and ability to capitalise on the slightest errors in length, meant the innings found a new gear.

Bavuma had a head start on his innings, and got to his century first, with a single off Shardul Thakur in the 45th over. At the start of the 48th over, van der Dussen got to his own hundred with a flick to fine leg.

The heat in Paarl saw the Indian bowling also wilting after a good Rassie van der Dussen's start, as van der Dussen continued brisk century powered to go full throttle. Bavuma, who South Africa to a win

was on 23 off 45 when van der Dussen joined him, and later on 28 off 53, gradually picked up his pace too. He made 82 from the last 90 balls he faced, playing an able foil to van der Dussen.

By the time he had holed out to become Jasprit Bumrah's second wicket, he had made 110 off 143.

India's bowling had begun well.

Bumrah got Janneman Malan nicking behind, and the returning Ashwin - playing his first ODI since 2017 - castled Quinton de Kock with a quicker one. When Aiden Markram ran himself out via a direct hit from debutant Venkatesh Iyer at mid-off, India seemed well in control.

However, the van der Dussen and Bavuma rebuilding, plus counterattack, left India looking a bit ragged.

There were several misfields and overthrows too, which eased any pressure that was built up.

KL Rahul, captaining India for the first time, didn't have an outing to remember.

He never went to his sixth bowling option, Venkatesh, and had used up eight overs each of Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar by the time the innings was 40 overs old. Eventually, 86 runs came off the final ten overs, including a 17-run final over by Virat Kholi celebrating his 50 Shardul Thakur.

When Rahul came out to open the innings, he treated Markram's part-time offspin with exaggerated caution. Markram bowled six overs on the trot after taking the new ball. Rahul had opted to play him out safely, rather than attack, but that approach didn't pay dividends either when he poked Markram behind to de Kock.

That led to India's best phase in the chase, with Dhawan scoring freely and Kohli building busily. During that period, the target looked within reach, with both men looking in control.

However, a sharply turning ball from Keshav Maharaj spun into Dhawan, got past the inside half of his bat and onto his stumps as he was shaping to cut; and Kohli top-edged Tabraiz Shamsi to midwicket three overs later.

From 138 for 1 in the 26th over, India's slide was steady.

Thakur, coming in at No. 8, belted a maiden ODI fifty and was unbeaten on 50 off 43 balls, but his hits only served to lessen the margin of defeat. (ESPNcricinfo)

Yorkshire appoint Ottis Gibson as Head Coach on three-year deal

Y

orkshire have appointed former West Indies all-rounder and coach Ottis Gibson on a three-year deal.

The 52-year-old takes charge following the departure of Andrew Gale and the rest of the coaching staff late last year, which came after an investigation into claims made

by Azeem Rafiq.

"I'm extremely honoured and excited to be given the opportunity to join Yorkshire County Cricket Club as Head Coach," Gibson has said.

"This is one of the most prestigious roles in English County Cricket, and I am really looking forward to working with

this talented group of players to take the club forward. I've spoken at length with Goughy [Darren Gough] about the direction the club is heading in, and I'm excited to be a part of that future."

A 100-page independent report in early November upheld allegations by Rafiq that he had been the victim of "racial harassment and bullying" during his time at Yorkshire.

Former Chairman Roger Hutton resigned with immediate effect over the club's handling of the investigation, with Kamlesh Patel stepping into the role.

Chief Executive Mark Arthur then followed Hutton in resigning, while Yorkshire later announced that they were parting ways with their entire coaching and medical team, including first-team coach Andrew Gale and Director of Cricket Martyn Moxon.

Former England bowler Gough was appointed as interim Managing Director, and was tasked with appointing new coaching staff as a priority.

Gibson, who will take charge from the end of February, was in charge of the West Indies side that won the T20 World Cup in 2012. He has also served as South Africa Head Coach, and Bowling Coach for England and Bangladesh.

An experienced county cricket player, who also appeared in two Tests and 15 ODIs for the West Indies, Gibson has worked with England during two Ashes se-

ries’ wins.

He will join up with Yorkshire once his deal with the Multan Sultans in the Pakistan Super League expires next month.

Patel has said he hoped the appointment of Gibson would "encourage dialogue and help foster a culture of inclusion at the club, as well as supporting and developing the world-class talent we have here, and pushing them to the next level.

"His playing and coaching credentials speak for themselves, and he has had a distinguished career performing at the highest level," Patel has said of Gibson. "Ottis's character and his commitment to

buying into the process that we are going through at Yorkshire County Cricket Club shone through in our discussions."

Gough has said: "Ottis is one of the best coaches in the world, and will be a fantastic addition. His knowledge, commitment, experience and cricket know-how will be vital for us as we move into pre-season and get ourselves up and running.

"We were absolutely blown away by the level of interest and quality of candidates for this role, but I have no doubt that he's the best person for the job, and will pick up the challenge with relish."

(Sportsmax)

22

THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Farfan and Mendes Ltd renew longterm sponsorship with RHTY&SC -25th successive year -Foster hails company as “foundation of club’s success”

"Y

ou are one of the main reasons why the club has not only survived, but after only 32 years of existence, is widely considered Guyana’s most dynamic youth and sports organisation, with an unmatched list of achievements and activities.

“You have stood by our side in good and bad times.

To have a sponsorship deal for 25 successive years is no mean feat, and we salute you for your trust and confidence in all of us."

Those were the words of Hilbert Foster, Secretary/ CEO of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, during a simple presentation ceremony to launch the 25th edition of the Farfan and Mendes Ltd’s sponsorship of the RHTY&SC Under-15 team.

Presentation was held on Friday last at the company’s

Head Office at Providence, East Bank Demerara.

Foster noted that the company started sponsoring the team in 1997, and, over the years, the team has won more than 8 major titles, including 5 Berbice Championships, and has produced 18 players for Guyana and close to 70 for Berbice.

Among the players produced under this sponsorship are Assad Fudadin, Royston Crandon, Dominic Rikhi, Delbert Hicks, Shevon Marks, Murphy LaRose, Jeremy Sandia, Mahendra Gopilall, Kevlon Anderson, Junior Sinclair, Jonathan Rampersaud, Shemaine Campbelle, Sheneeta Grimmond, Shakiba Gajnabi and Matthew Pottaya.

Anderson, Crandon, Fudadin, Campbelle, Gajnabi and Grimmond

have gone on to play for the West Indies at different levels, while Dominic Rikhi has played for the United States at the international level.

Foster has said that Farfan & Mendes first assisted the RHTY&SC in April 1995 with a grass-cutter to help with upkeep of the Area H Ground, but officially started to sponsor the team in 1997. That support, the longstanding club official has said, allowed the team to focus on achieving success without having to concern itself with financing its operation.

Over the years, the team has undertaken in excess of 1000 community projects under the name of its sponsor as part of members’ personal development programme. Those projects include feeding programmes; clean-up campaigns; senior citizens’ breakfasts; youth

information booklet; distribution of food hampers; solar lights project; educational scholarships; distribution of cycles; street signs; awards ceremonies, and hosting the popular Christmas Village in Rose Hall Town.

This team has also invested heavily in off-thefield development of its cricketers, especially under the “Say Yes to Education” project.

Apart from sponsoring the under-15 team, Farfan & Mendes also co-sponsors the club’s annual Christmas Charity programmes, annual awards ceremonies, annual youth magazine, and cricket academies, among other projects.

Special mention has been made of Chairperson June Mendes, General Manager Andrew Mendes, and Marketing Manager

RHTY&SC Executive Member Tyrone Pottaya receiving sponsorship cheque from Nick Singh of Farfan and Mendes Ltd, in the presence of other club members and company staff

Onai Vasconcellos for their support over the years.

In brief remarks, Vasconcellos declared the company delighted to be associated with the RHTY&SC, and described

the club as an outstanding representative of its brands.

He hailed the leadership of the club for its hard work over the years, and pledged support of Farfan and Mendes Ltd in the future.

Batsmen warm up with solid batting ahead of Betway T20I Series

T

he West Indies have made good use of their preparation ahead of the Betway T20 International Series against England; they defeated a BCA President’s XI on Tuesday night.

The home side batted first and made 131-6 off their 20 overs. The target was revised to 160 off 20 overs, and West Indies reached 165-3 off 18.3 overs, to win the game by seven wickets.

The top five batsmen made good use of a firm, true pitch, and all of them got starts. Kyle Mayers got off the mark with a six, which laid down a marker, as he added 62 in 4.5 overs for

the first wicket with Brandon King. The strongly-built lefthander made 38 off 32 balls, while King smashed 32 off 13 balls, with two sixes and four fours across the lush, carpet-like outfield.

King was the first wicket to fall – well caught by Kadeem Alleyne at deep mid-off off Roshon Primus.

He was replaced by stand-in Nicholas Pooran, who made 27 off 21 balls, with two sixes – one of which sailed onto the roof of the Greenidge & Haynes Stand at deep midwicket.

Mayers followed soon after, bowled by off-spinner

Eve says T&T face "major test" in Bolivia

N

ational football team head coach Angus Eve says Trinidad and Tobago will face a major test against a full-strength Bolivia team on Friday at altitude in Sucre, Bolivia.

Trinidad and Tobago have not played an international match since July 2021, and will come up against a Bolivia team preparing for 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification matches against Venezuela and Chile. Eve has been preparing a locally-based squad for the Bolivia friendly.

The former T&T midfielder says Bolivia would have all their top players for the friendly on Friday, including

Cruzeiro's Marcelo Martins and Inter Miami's Jairo Quinteros.

"Bolivia (have) all their players available. They have picked all their players, because 90 percent of the team plays in Bolivia. The two players that play in Brazil, and the one player that plays with Joevin Jones (at Inter Miami) are back for this, because you remember they have World Cup qualifying right after this," Eve told reporters at the Hasely Crawford Stadium on Tuesday.

The Bolivia friendly will be played at Estadio Olimpico Patria in Sucre, which is 9,153 feet above sea level.

"Their full team is there for this game, and it will be a major test for our guys; and even the altitude (will be a test).

When we first took the game, it was to be in Santa Cruz (Bolivia), and they have now moved it to Sucre, which is nine thousand (feet) over sea level," the former Club Sando coach has said. "All of that will add challenges for our guys, but we need to play in these adverse circumstances, because that is the only way that you can get better," Eve said.

The Trinidad and Tobago team for the Bolivia friendly comprise: Adrian Foncette, Marvin Phillip (goalkeepers); Radanfah Abu Bakr, Mekeil Williams, Keston George, Leland Archer, Jamal Jack, Stephon Marcano, Alvin Jones, Justin Garcia, Jesse Williams, Noah Powder (defenders); Hashim Arcia, Michel Poon Angeron, Matthew Woo Ling, Neveal Hackshaw, John-Paul Rochford, Molik Khan, Ajani Fortune (midfielders); Reon Moore, Ryan Telfer (strikers).

(TT Loop News)

Ashley Nurse while trying to hit a full-length delivery through the off-side. Roston Chase then joined Darren Bravo, and the pair added an unbroken stand of 54 for the fourth wicket.

Left-hander Bravo looked in good touch with 32 not out off 27 balls, while the elegant Chase (23 not out) ended the match in style with a big six over long-on into the 3Ws Stand.

The BCA President’s XI will play a second match against England on Wednesday at Kensington Oval. First ball is 4pm (3pm Jamaica). (Windies Cricket)

ICC U19 World Cup 2022…

Yash Dhull, five others test positive for COVID-19 - miss India match against Ireland

Y

ash Dhull, captain of India's Under-19 team; Shaik Rasheed, the vice-captain, and four other members of the team have tested positive for COVID-19, and have been forced out of the Group B World Cup game against Ireland in Tarouba on Wednesday.

The others who tested positive and were forced to miss the match were Aaradhya Yadav, Vasu Vats, Manav Parakh and Siddarth Yadav.

An unnamed BCCI official told PTI, "Three Indian players had tested positive yesterday, and were already isolated.

In the morning, before match, our captain and vice-captain also tested positive in Rapid Antigen Test, which is not conclusive. So they, as precautionary measure, were pulled out. The players included skipper Yash Dhull and his deputy Shaikh Rasheed. We only had 11 available players, and six isolated."

Nishant Sindhu was

named captain of the team for the match in the absence of the captain and deputy. India, who won their first match, against South Africa by 45 runs, next play Uganda on Saturday, January 22. As such, the Indian team have five travelling reserves: Rishit Reddy, Uday Saharan, Ansh Gosai, Amrit Raj Upadhyay and PM Singh Rathore.

If the need arises, matches can be rescheduled too, with the ICC stressing on the need to be fluid and flexible because of the circumstances.

The tournament’s playing conditions state that if a match cannot be held on schedule [or is abandoned on the day of the match] because of COVID-19-related reasons, the event’s technical committee would try to find a way to reschedule the game, but the rescheduling would be done only "within reason, and without unreasonably impacting on the participating teams or on the staging of other match-

es".

At the Under-19 World Cup, the bubbles are being managed in such a way that the wellbeing of the young players - both physical and mental - is taken care of. The ICC is taking cognisance of the fact that it is a long tournament, with the young players having not been in such situations before. There would also be mental-health professionals available to the teams as had obtained during the men's T20 World Cup last year. (ESPNcricinfo)

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

23 GTTA to kick-start 2022 with National Junior and Cadet Table Tennis Championships THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022

T

he Guyana Table Tennis Association takes pleasure in extending an invitation to all players and affiliates to participate in the 2022 National Junior and Cadet Table Tennis Championships, scheduled for play from 22nd January to 23rd January 2022 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown.

The National Junior and Cadet Table Tennis Championships 2022 will be organised and coordinated by the Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) under the rules, regulations and authority of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF).

The following are the events that would be played: * Boys’ 19 yrs-and-under singles * Girls’ 19 yrs-and-under singles * Boys’ 15-yrs-and-under singles * Girls’ 15-yrs-and-under singles * Novices’ Girls Singles * Novices’ Boys Singles * Boys Open doubles * Girls Open doubles * Junior Open mixed doubles.

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Seeding for all events would be based on results of placings in last national championships or domestic competitions in the first instance, or according to international ranking if currently available for players who did not participate in domestic tournaments; estimated or last rank of player in previous competition.

The event is open to all nationals of Guyana who are eligible to represent the GTTA, according to the ITTF Handbook 2020. The Tournament Committee would determine the system of play based on the number of entries, using an approach of knockout using best of seven, or first stage round-robin basis in groups of even-numbered players, but there shall not be less than 3 and not more than 5 players in a group, and priority will be given to groups of 4 players.

If there are 5 or less players, the event would be played as a round-robin without knockout. Two players advance from each group to the second stage, which will be played in a knockout format.

Seeding for all the events will be done based on results of placings in last 3 tour-

naments played according to international ranking, if currently available for players who did not participate in domestic tournaments; estimated or last rank of player in previous competition.

By entering the event, all participants agree to abide by all ITTF rules, and by the rules and regulations of the organisers. All clubs’ individual players agree to abide by the rulings of the ITTF and its agents in all matters concerning television coverage, video, internet web casting, motion picture coverage, and photographic coverage of any kind.

Participants release all rights, or rights held by their agents or sponsors, in all mat-

• Temperature checks, washing and sanitising of hands upon entry on arrival • Wearing of masks by non-competing players at all times when in playing venue • Only players whose categories are in progress would be allowed to play on the tables • A meeting will be held to discuss all protocols • Persons infringing the COVID-19 guidelines would be debarred from further participation in the competition.

Winners’ runners-up and semifinalists would be awarded with medals of gold, sil-

ters relating to television and web casting coverage, video and motion picture coverage, and photographic coverage of any kind; and hence accept such coverage during the event.

Any participant, when called upon, must appear promptly to press conferences or medal presentations, and follow the procedures set by the ITTF and the organisers.

The COVID-19 guidelines that would be in place are:

ver and bronze in all events. Players are asked to officially register with the General Secretary, Mr. Linden Johnson, telephone# 621-7630; or Mrs Deirdre Edghill, using the entry form, which can be submitted in person or scanned and sent to the email address lindenj20032003@yahoo.com the google form https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1s4gg_XaUqw5BBUGTjIEm3y6X3SymogqbWEmyVSeDFw/edit .

RHTY&SC launches 2022 activities with Ganesh, Tracy propel Windsor Forest to easy win over donations, sights set on 750 activities

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RHTY&SC executives and players handing over donation to the Dharm Shala

ricket teams of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) last week launched their calendar of activities for 2022, and announced plans to complete a total of 750 activities for the new year, after successfully completing a record 715 activities last year.

The teams: Rose Hall Town Farfan and Mendes Under-15; Poonai Pharmacy Under-12 and 13; Bakewell Under-17 and Intermediate; Pepsi Under-19 and Intermediate; Vitality Under-23; Metro Female; Namilco Thunderbolt Flour Under-21 and First Division,

undertake a wide array of activities under several sub-headings as part of their agreements with their respective sponsors. Each of the abovementioned teams is named after their sponsor.

These teams, under the supervision of their management team, have launched their 2022 calendar or activities by donating items to the Berbice arm of the Dharm Shala Senior Citizens’ Home and the Port Mourant Public Hospital.

The teams also joined with partners to officially hand over a home worth $2.7M to Ms Ruthel Henry, Office Assistant of the

Berbice Cricket Board, in order to fulfill a commitment made by Club Secretary/ CEO Hilbert Foster to her.

The donation to the Port Mourant Public Hospital consisted of office chairs and much-needed items, including bleach and soap powder; while the Dharm Shala Senior Citizens’ Home received a large amount of food items to assist in preparing meals for their inmates.

RHTY&SC Asst Secretary/CEO Simon Naidu has said that, during 2022, special emphasis would be placed on improving the lives of the less fortunate and on promotion of education/

sports among youths. The club, he said, has set itself a target of completing 750 activities for the year under the subheadings of charity, education, sports, coaching, community development, youth development, religion, publications, medical, senior citizens’ welfare, anti-drugs and pro-life.

The club would invest heavily in its cricket section by obtaining more than one million dollars’ worth of new cricket gear and cricket balls for training sessions.

Club Coach Delbert Hicks would also be provided with all the necessary equipment to successfully discharge his mandate. Among the hundreds of activities planned for the year are: the Annual Awards’ Ceremony; production of the annual magazine and the youth information booklet; senior citizens’ breakfasts; upgrade of children’s playfield; restoration of club office; Tribute to Heroes; ANSA McAL Award of Excellence; Tribute to Law Enforcement Officers; Berbice Sports Awards; Tribute to Teachers; CSEC Outstanding Students; Tribute to Medical Workers, and Basil Butcher Trust Fund, among other things.

Cotton Tree Die Hard team

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Kishaun Tracy bagged 3-14

he habit of winning games continued for Windsor Forest in 2022 when they duked it out with a Cotton Tree Die Hard team at the Cotton Tree ground in West Coast Berbice on Sunday last.

Windsor Forest won the toss and opted to bat in a game that was reduced to 20 overs because of rain. This decision resulted in Windsor Forest defeating Cotton Tree Die Hard by 5 runs. Batting first Windsor Forest posted 116/8 in their allotted 20 overs.

Top scoring for Windsor Forest, Avinash Ganesh produced 51 (4x6) (3x 4), Kishaun Tracy

Avinash Ganesh top-scored with 51

produced 17 (1x6) (1x4) and Hemchand Bisnauth added 10 (1x6).

Bowling for Cotton Tree Die Hard, N Gafoor bagged 3 for 14 from his 3 overs.

In response, Cotton Tree Die Hard could muster only 112/8 in their 20 overs. Their top scorers were Brandon (only name given), with 24 (2x4); and R Gafoor, with 17 (2x6) (1x4).

Bowling for Windsor Forest, Kishaun Tracy took 3 for 13 from 4 overs, Chatram Nauth took 2 for 28 from 4 overs, and Deendyal Guyadeen took a wicket for 5 runs from his 4 overs.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022

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

GTTA to kick-start 2022 with National Junior and Cadet Table Tennis Championships

Page 23

Cave, D’Anjou to represent Guyana at IMMAF World Championships after US lab mishap

… Team pays courtesy call on Minister Ramson prior to departure

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Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, sharing a light moment with Ijaz Cave and Corwin D’Anjou, the only two representatives for Guyana at the IMMAF World Championships in Abu Dhabi

jaz Cave and Corwin D’Anjou will be the only two representatives for Guyana at the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation’s (IMMAF’s) World Championships, which are set for January 24–29 in Abu Dhabi.

D’Anjou will compete in the Men’s Welterweight (77.1kg) division, while Cave will do battle in the Men’s Light Heavyweight (93kg) category.

Initially, the Guyana Mixed Martial Arts Federation (GYMMAF) had announced a six-man team to attend the prestigious event in the capital city of the United Arab Emirates (UAE); however, as Executive member Dr Sawan Jagnarain explained, following a mishap in several important tests that had to be done overseas, Webster McRae, Akeem Fraser, Christopher James and John Campayne would be left behind.

According to Dr Jagnarain, the GYMMAF had solicited the

services of a lab in the United States of America, since some of the required testing of the athletes, which are mandatory by the IMMAF, could not have been facilitated in Guyana.

Dr Jagnarain said the athletes’ blood samples were done and sent in December; but, up to crunch time, the Lab related, it had encountered some technical difficulties and only two of the samples were done, being those of Cave and D’Anjou.

“This is a major blow to all the work the athletes had put in,” a livid GYMMAF President Gavin Singh highlighted.

Singh said he had spoken to the other four athletes, and apologised on the GYMMAF’s behalf, while encouraging them to stay the course and focus on other upcoming international engagements, one of which would be the IMMAF Pan American Championships.

Meanwhile, the team paid a courtesy call on Minister of

Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, earlier today. Minister Ramson, according to Singh, has been supportive of the GYMMAF since coming into office last August. Through the National Sports Commission (NSC), the GYMMAF had received support from the Government of Guyana.

Minister Ramson congratulated the fighters for being selected, adding: “All of Guyana is behind you, and on behalf of the Government of Guyana, I want to say good luck.

This is a huge achievement, since you will be the first Guyanese to compete at the World Championships. You should be proud, and be good ambassadors for Guyana,” Minister Ramson said.

Guyana will be the only country from the Caribbean present in the UAE, given that Trinidad and Tobago had to withdraw after their representatives recently tested positive for COVID-19.

Singh revealed that Guyana’s upcoming participation in its first IMMAF World Championships is a manifestation of almost two years of planning, with the GYMMAF using the opportunity presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Several companies have come in for praise from the GYMMAF, particularly Banks DIH, Bounty Farm, Akbar Inc, Sandcorp Development, Zoon, Universal Travel, WR Services, Eureka Labs, Acarai Properties and Northwest Securities. The aforementioned companies, according to Singh, played a major part in helping to make the team’s trip to the UAE a success.

Hosted by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and MMA Federation, with the support of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and in partnership with Palms Sports, the senior and junior national tournaments are to take place at the Jiu-Jitsu Arena in Zayed Sports City, near UFC Fight Island (Yas Island).

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