Guyana Times -- Tuesday, April 6, 2021

Govt opens applications for online scholarships Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 4609

P13

THE BEACON OF TRUTH TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021

Govt will invest heavily in social sector – Finance Minister tells World Bank Ministerial Conclave Page 3

– says boosting delivery of education among priorities

Guyana's gold reserves on path to recovery

Page 7

PRICE

$80 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Taxi driver P10 arrested after brawl with Police P12 Tuschen man robbed by driver, passenger after boarding taxi Sophia man P12 arrested for $3.5M heist at Pouderoyen

…BoG shows over $5B now in gold reserves

Decomposed body of UG student found at Belle Vue P16

Ranks of the Guyana Police Force on Easter Monday were out in their numbers at various locations across the country to enforce the COVID-19 guidelines as the numbers of deaths and positive cases skyrocket. In this photo, Police ranks cordoned off a section of the Kingston Seawall to prevent persons accessing the area Dead: Roy Ross

Swan man found stabbed to death in home

Page 11

– 2 brothers taken into Police custody

4 more die Page 9 from COVID-19, death toll now 247

…active cases surpass 1000

AG joins criminal appeal challenging constitutionality of death penalty Page 13

P14 Home improvement subsidies to be extended – Min Croal ...Vigilance to Diamond, WBD to also benefit

Barber busted with cannabis during Police operation P10

2

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

3 Govt will invest heavily in social sector – Finance Minister tells World Bank Ministerial Conclave NEWS

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, April 6 – 01:00h – 02:30h and 12:30h – 14:00h and Wednesday, April 7 – 01:30h – 03:00h and 13:30h – 15:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, April 6 – 12:45h – 14:15h and Wednesday, April 7 – 13:35h – 15:05h.

– says boosting delivery of education among priorities man capital development both as an input to, and an outcome of, sustainable economic growth,” Dr Singh informed the grouping.

In his address, the Minister highlighted Guyana’s economic prospects as well as the country’s vulnerabilities and development challenges.

He also emphasised that Guyana is rich in natural resources, including oil, minerals, and forests that cover 85 per cent of the country’s territory, making its economic prospects cur-

FERRY SCHEDULE Parika and Supenaam departure times - 05:00h, 11:00h and 16:00h daily

WEATHER TODAY

There will be light rain showers during the day. There will be light rain showers and partly cloudy skies at night. Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

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

High Tide: 12:29h reaching a maximum height of 2.11 metres.

Low Tide: 18:46h reaching a minimum height of 1.04 metres.

SATURDAY, APRIL 3, 2021

LOTTERY NUMBERS D

10 11 13

14 19 22

FREE TICKET

28 Bonus Ball

DAILY MILLIONS

03 04 06 11 26 LUCKY 3

0

6

6

DRAW DE LINE

09

10

13

14

17 20 21 SUPER

PAY DAY

PAY DAY

01 09 13 15 17 13

02 07 08 09 16

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

COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Change %

Crude Oil

$62.15/barrel

-4.36

Rough Rice

$236.79/ton

+0.30

London Sugar

$423.40/ton

Live Spot Gold

0

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1729.00

$1730.00

Low/High Change

$1720.40 +0.50

$1734.70 +0.03%

Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh

A

ssurances have been given by Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government fully intends to invest heavily in the social sector and human capital over the next few years.

Dr Singh made these pronouncements during a recent World Bank Ministerial conclave, in which he represented Guyana among the Finance Ministers of other countries, senior executives of the Bank and World Bank Group President David Malpass.

According to a statement from the Finance Ministry, the Minister used the opportunity to explain that notwithstanding the other competing areas for Guyana’s resources, investing in human capital and the social sector will be a priority for the Government. In fact, he noted that they are already in the process of this investment.

“For example, in education, we are investing heavily in early childhood education, universal primary and secondary education, improving access to and quality of tertiary education, strengthening technical and vocational education, improving learning outcomes at all levels, and ensuring lifelong learning – supported with the use of information and communication technology based on lessons learnt during COVID-19 – and all with the aim of improving production and productivity as well as individual and household well-being.”

“On many of these initiatives we are collaborating with the Bank, and we expect the education sector to dominate our portfolio of projects with the Bank in the next programming cycle... this will be in keeping with our emphasis on hu-

rently very promising despite COVID-19 and domestic political issues which caused a sharp contraction in non-oil GDP in 2020.

Fastest growth

He reminded that even with the many challenges, Guyana is still the fastest growing economy in the world as a result of its production of oil, and will remain amongst the fastest growing economies in the next few years.

“But we also face extreme vulnerabilities to climate

change, as well as significant development challenges. We are well aware of the magnitude of these challenges. They include avoiding the resource curse, promoting a strong and competitive non-oil economy, addressing our infrastructure gap, and improving human development outcomes,” Dr Singh added.

On the issue of environmental sustainability, Minister Singh highlighted the role of both the original Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) which was the product of the previ-

ous PPP Administration, as well as the soon to be expanded LCDS. He stated that “Guyana’s commitment to low carbon or green growth is longstanding. In 2008, we published what we believe was the first low carbon development strategy for a developing country. The LCDS reflected that Guyana is at the intersection of many different aspects of the climate challenge. On the one hand, our low-lying coast means we are heavily impacted by climate change.”

TURN TO PAGE 7

4

guyanatimesgy.com

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021

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

Ending plastic pollution

T

he 18th century “European Enlightenment” was supposed to have ushered in a new age: when man’s activities would be guided by reason and rationality, as opposed to the “superstitions” prevailing before.

Unfortunately, while leading to great progress in most areas of learning and the production of new goods for our consumption, it also led to the most destructive wars in the history of mankind, and to the creation of weapons which can literally destroy all life on Earth overnight.

By the 20th century, however, another threat to life on Earth was conceded, after the evidence accumulating since the previous century finally became incontrovertible: pollution and poisoning of the land and waters by the effluents from the industrial production and use of the same goods that were supposed to deliver the good life to all mankind.

The USA by then had clawed its way to become the most “advanced” country in the world, and it was, therefore, not surprising it had produced the most pollutants and became the most polluted country. By 1970, exactly one century after the Industrial Revolution” was accepted to have been launched, an American Senator started a campaign for “Earth Day” to be commemorated annually on April 21, to publicise the need to reduce pollution of the Earth.

At that time, the leaching of fertilisers and dumping of industrial wastes into rivers were seen as the most potent polluters. The US and other developed countries have since done much to reverse that trend.

On the other hand, the Third World, in its quest to become First World, has now not only picked up the slack in the production of pollutants, but has surged past the polluters previously mentioned. In addition, it has been discovered that pollution of the Earth had been much more insidious and pervasive.

The burning of petroleum and other fossil fuels, such as coal, all produce the gas carbon dioxide, which accumulates in the atmosphere and acts to prevent radiant energy impinging on the Earth from the Sun from escaping into space. As such, with the onset of progress in the production of goods by the Industrial Revolution, its carbon dioxide waste was leading to the steady and inexorable warming of the atmosphere. This, in turn, unleashed all kinds of deleterious effects, such as a change in weather patterns and raised sea levels, caused by ever-faster melting ice caps.

While “global warming” was fought by many, especially by those that benefited from the production of fossil fuels, the United Nations made a fin-de-siècle warning that we could not afford to go beyond a 2C rise from the temperature of the 19th century. This would push global warming beyond its tipping point, with its concomitant climate change that could lead to an even more rapid rise in sea level, crop failures, and the collapse of coral reefs and invaluable ecosystems.

According to the report, the world can only continue to emit carbon for roughly another 23 years at current levels before it will have a more than two-thirds chance of going over the 2C limit.

But the theme for this year’s Earth Day highlighted yet another facet of our unwitting destruction of the Earth’s delicate ecosystem that permits life as we know it: plastic pollution. The production of plastic – a completely new substance never produced in the billions of years of Earth’s existence — was seen as a wonder of the Industrial Revolution. Today, its use is ubiquitous, but so is its disposal; and since it is not “biodegradable”, it is now seen as a pollutant from several angles.

In Guyana, we should all be aware of its effects in clogging up canals and causing massive flooding on our coasts. But a new threat has been revealed: the amount of plastic in the oceans will soon exceed that of marine life, and pose a threat to the latter’s survival.

Maybe the old “superstitious” belief of regarding and treating Earth as our “mother” should be revived?

Chinese Catholics attend an Easter Vigil service at a Catholic church in Shanghai, China (Reuters/Aly Song)

Let’s build our bridge of hope!

Dear Editor, Let’s build our bridge of hope this Easter. The Easter message says “Yes we Can!” There can be redemption and renewal! We can find our way out of the pandemic, though it will take time and patience. We could value each other as human beings made in the likeness of God and help the less fortunate. We could collaborate with the NGO sector to ensure that help reaches those in need. We can mobilise to change systemic issues that distort our society.

The more troubling problem is not the medical challenge of keeping people safe and alive; it is how do we ensure that the majority of Guyanese can live a decent life – that they have food on the table; a job or business that can sustain themselves and their families; that they are not put out on the streets because they can’t pay the rent or mortgage; that we do

not create another lost generation of children because they did not have access to online classes or whose parents were unable to assist/ supervise them.

Easter is of course the most important event on the Christian calendar as it speaks to the very essence of the Christian faith – that Jesus Christ died on the cross and on the third day He rose from the dead.

The significance of this is that Jesus’ death represents the sacrifices that God’s Son made for humanity; while the resurrection points us to new life.

Easter 2021 continues to meet us “on our knees”, humbled by a virus that has cat spraddled us. One day we were invincible, or so we thought and behaved. The next day, racked with physical and emotional pain, our voices curdled in our throats.

Our hearts fail us for fear. We are anxious, con-

fused and grieving. Plagues, even though increasingly common, always find us unprepared. Our minds race back and forth as we long for some semblance of normality.

The most important thing is not to set our hearts on false hopes – be they couched in lying tales or conspiracy theories. Those are dead-end streets, cruel jokes played on the unsuspecting.

The purveyors of these stories are themselves seeking answers and desiring to regain predictable normality. They seek to rationalise what is happening, but you cannot build a better future with a lie. Therefore, be wary of those who peddle gloom and doom and offer little beyond a call for repentance. We live in a broken, messy society. A virus, without moral attributes, should be expected. To argue this position is to ignore that God never gave Job an an-

swer in His long and direct conversation with him about why suffering and pain are part of our existence. God made no attempt to justify this. He only convinced Job of His sovereignty.

We, therefore, should not look for easy answers when our turn for pain comes.

Most times, there are no real easy answers The question, in the light of the impending outcomes, then is: what do we owe each other? Are we, who are more fortunate and who can isolate ourselves via our Zoom platform, social bubbles, and remote activities, going to round down the risks to zero, forgetting that those risks add up to a monumental one for the less fortunate? With this mindset, how will the Ministry of Health and other assorted agencies seek a long-term solution?

Dear Editor, As Muslims in Guyana anxiously await the start of the holy month of Ramadan which should be either the 13 or 14 of April 2021, we were greeted with some obnoxious and horrible news by the Government National COVID-19 Task Force that decreed that no feeding or eating should take place at mosques after Muslims break their fast after fasting for 14 hours every day with no food or water.

Editor, mind you as per the protocol, every mas-

jid is allowed 40 per cent of its capacity for people to pray their five daily prayers and we have to practice social distancing, sanitise and wear a mask, yet although we adhere to all the protocols we cannot eat at the masjid after we break our fast. How ridiculous and senseless!!!

Editor, let me give you an example: Our masjid “DarUl- Takwah, after the decree by the COVID-19 Task Force, made representation to the Regional Health Officer of Region Six. We

told her that restaurants, bars and hotels, which are also allowed 40 per cent of their capacity, are given permission for people to eat and drink at these establishments, so why are Muslims being discriminated against?

We were told that masjids are places of worship, but you cannot eat there.

How senseless. God help this country.

And Editor, you know what is hurtful, during Ramadan many poor Muslims who keep the fast

look forward to eat at the masjid, because Muslims who afford feed every day for the entire month.

How can this Government and its COVID-19 Task Force be so callous and uncaring? And finally, what is the CIOG and the GIT doing in all of this. They are supposed to be representing the interest of Muslims in this country, but sad to say they have failed miserably.

Sincerely, David Adams

Feeding during Ramadan

Yours faithfully, Imtiaz Baccus

guyanatimesgy.com

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021

5

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

More opportunities needed in rural areas

Dear Editor, I read with great interest a letter written by a young and brilliant woman from Black Bush Polder who expressed the lack of opportunities, dominance by some in authority who wanted sex from their junior employees, the importance of perseveration, the lack of facilities for educational advancement and numerous obstacles in her quest for higher education. Lisa Budhu’s letter to the First Lady Arya Alli was brilliantly written, respectful and addressed her as Her Excellency and pointed

out the ills of the agricultural settlement of Black Bush Polder.

Her writing skills were superb especially for someone without a University degree. She wants to improve her education at all costs, but there are numerous setbacks. She knows that without a University degree her chances at the job market would be minimal.

A recent report I recently read was very informative.

I did not know that there was no landline in the area to make it easily accessible to emails and computer-re-

lated materials. It is unbelievable at this age when the computer is now a necessity for children’s education residents are denied this facility. Black Bush Polder was the brainchild of Dr Cheddi Jagan, established before Independence and when Forbes Burnham took over the administration of the Government in 1964, he continued the agricultural developments of the settlement which both leaders said would be the breadbasket of the Caribbean... and indeed agricultural produce from Lesbeholden, Johanna,

Mibicuri and Yakusari found their way to Port Mourant, New Amsterdam, Bourda and Stabroek Markets. Rice is also grown there which is exported.

However, it is regrettable that the roadways are not the best and are deteriorating fairly rapidly, maybe because the infrastructure was not the best. There are numerous problems in the area and residents are deprived of basic facilities enjoyed by those in other areas. Well known Guyanese Professor, Dr Baytoram Ramharack, a Berbician, who now lives

Conservation and regeneration Dear Editor, Guyana must indeed be proud of Iwokrama that is leading the way in environmental sustainability and helping to keep the earth breathing safely. However, outside of the Iwokrama reserve very little is being done with respect to conservation and regeneration. So I have this dream that sees the Ministry of Agriculture leading the way in a campaign to plant trees across Guyana, including our native fruit trees, many of which are becoming scarcer and scarcer, some of which may probably already be close to total disappearance.

Perhaps the Ministry would set up a fruit tree nursery to provide seedlings across Guyana, supplemented by a campaign urging Guyanese to use available land space to plant local fruit trees. As well, maybe the Botanical Gardens can set up a similar nursery for flowering

trees and plants, which could also be another means of generating income for the Gardens.

And while we’re talking about regeneration, perhaps the Ministry may also want to consider nurseries to regenerate local freshwater fish and crustaceans, many of which are also disappearing. Besides the fact that this will again make readily available freshwater fish, crab and shrimp, it must be noted that these creatures also play important roles in the eco-system, especially fish which store a large proportion of ecosystem nutrients in their tissues, transport nutrients farther than other aquatic animals and excrete nutrients in dissolved forms that are readily available to primary producers.

And this process of conservation and regeneration can be fostered by laws that restrict catch to above certain sizes, while mandating

that smaller sizes and catch with eggs be returned to the water. This kind of fishing behaviour will not easily catch on but a start has to be made and mechanisms put in place to enforce the laws. In fact, similar laws ought to apply to catch from the oceans as well.

Finally, the replenished landscape and waterways can be an incentive to foster an ongoing anti-pollution campaign that sees Guyanese across the land ensure that trash is properly managed/disposed of per guidelines set out by Government with necessary supports in place. In this respect, First Lady Arya Ali has already shown the way but her efforts need to be replicated nationally perhaps through a regeneration of both the spirit of selfhelp and residents taking ownership for the landscape and waterways.

Many of my generation would recall that, to a cer-

tain extent, this was the culture in our growing up days and if brought back and intensified can also enhance Guyana’s tourism product. And who knows… perhaps this coming together at the level of communities may contribute to the lessening of ethnic tensions and hostilities. It could also lead to community/Private Sector/Government collaboration in setting up community parks and aesthetic areas for relaxation and recreation. Such parks/areas can also be named after local heroes and achievers as part of a process to preserve local history and folklore.

More importantly, this entire process, bereft of politicking can be continuous regardless of which party is in power since it becomes a people-centric endeavour with national, long-term benefits.

Sincerely, Annan Boodram

in New York, is not optimistic. Writing a blog, he said “Black Bush Polder is the place God has forgotten about, and the urban elites (many of whom once lived in the countryside) choose not to be reminded about it, Indeed, this place has the highest suicide rates per capita in the world of 196 countries).”

In response to Lisa’s letter, another blogger “Soph” stated, “This young woman is smart and resilient and makes this important call to the many national businesses that could put her intelligence and ambitions to productive use. I say if you can afford it... step up and help her get a university education. A scholarship and some support would be awesome.”

I support this call and will go a bit further to request the Government to assist Lisa, who is trying her best to advance her education. Her stunning letter is strong evidence that this young countrywoman is very resourceful and talented. She needs

assistance to move ahead.

She is not trying to move out of Black Bush Polder but wants to remain and assist residents after she is better qualified to do so.

I would have thought that the Government, regardless of which party is in power, would make the 6000 residents of Black Bush Polder comfortable and provide them with the proper tools and better facilities so that they can continue their planting in order to feed the nation. Their children must also be taken into account ... no doubt there are several smart ones like Lisa who want to advance their studies. they can start off with a landline and a secondary school with better-trained teachers. These people are hard-working farmers and should be cared for in a better way. We should remember most of the “brains” of this country hail from rural areas.

Sincerely, Oscar Ramjeet

6

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021

Foundation ◄

Page Question 1

Monday’s answers

The diagrams below represent the cross-sections of two circular pizzas, A and B. The pizzas are similar but vary in size. Pizza A has a diameter of 15cm and Pizza B has a diameter of 30c

a) If the price of a dress = $17, 000 14% VAT = $17, 000 ÷ 100 x 14 = $2380 Total cost of dress = Marked price + VAT = $17, 000 + $2380 = $19,380 b) Discount of 10% on marked price of each dress = $17, 000 ÷ 100 x 10 = $1700 Price of 1 dress = $17,000 – $1700 = $15,300 If the new price of a dress = $15,300 14% VAT = $15,300 ÷ 100 x 14 = $2142 Total cost of dress = Marked price + VAT = $15,300 +$2142 = $17,442 Total cost of 4 dresses = $17,442 x 4 = $69, 768

Selling Price = Cost Price + Profit Determine, by calculation, if Pizza B is TWICE the size of Pizza A. Selling Price of 1 dress = x + 20% Pizza B is cut into 5 equal slices and is sold at $6.95 per slice, while Pizza A $15,300 = Cost Price + 20% (is sold So $15,300= 120% of Cost Price as a whole) at $9.95. Determine, with reason, which of the two options, (a Therefore Cost Price = $15,300 ÷ 120 x slice of 100 = $12,750 Pizza B or Pizza A), is the better buy for the customer.

B

ees are nearly always buzzing with activity. And while much of it is routine, there’s lots in a bee’s life that makes for exciting news — especially for another bee! Think and write about what you have learnt about bees in your own Daily Bee publication.

Supplies

>> A newspaper or online access to one >> Writing and drawing supplies — paper, pencil, markers, ruler

Getting Started

Pick up a copy of your local newspaper, or stop by the library together to look at one. You can also visit newspaper websites online.

Identify different parts of the paper and talk about the difference be-

tween reported news, opinion, and advertising. Remember when writing a news story focus on who, what, where, when, why, and how, and remember as well the importance of research.

Imagine what kind of news and information bees would need and brainstorm ideas for a newspaper for bees. Some ideas to consider: >> Create a comic strip that tells a story from the point of view

of a worker, drone or queen bee >> Write a news article “Conflicts in the Hive” that gives the inside scoop on what happens when a queen leaves the hive and how a new queen is chosen >> Write and draw an advertisement for flowers that would be really attractive to bees >> Write a news story that offers travel tips and best routes to take to favourite food sources >> News coverage of a bear attack on a hive >> Captioned drawings (or photographs) of a bee in action If creating an entire newspaper seems overwhelming, chose just one idea to focus on. Or play newspaper editor and assign yourself a story to work on. If you have access to a digital camera, you could create a video news story instead. (Adapted from startwithabook.org)

The Woman Speaks to the Man who has Employed her Son

By Lorna Goodison

Her son was first made known to her as a sense of unease, a need to cry for little reasons and a metallic tide rising in her mouth each morning.

Such signs made her know That she was not alone in her body.

She carried him full term tight up under her heart.

She carried him like the poor carry hope, hope you get a break or a visa, hope one child go through and remember you. He had no father.

The man she made him with had more like him, he was fair-minded he treated all his children with equal and unbiased indifference.

She raise him twice, once as mother Then as father, set no ceiling On what he could be doctor, earth healer, pilot take wings.

But now he tells her he is working for you, that you value him so much you give him one whole submachine gun for him alone.

He says you are like a father to him she is wondering what kind of father would give a son hot and exploding death, when he asks him for bread.

She went downtown and bought three and one-third yards of black cloth and a deep crowned and veiled hat for the day he draw his bloody salary.

She has no power over you and this at the level of earth, what she has are prayers and a mother’s tears and at knee city she uses them.

She says psalms for him she reads psalms for you she weeps for his soul her eyewater covers you.

She is throwing a partner with Judas Iscariot’s mother the thief on the left-hand side of the cross, his mother is the banker, her draw though is first and last for she still throwing two hands as mother and father.

She is prepared, she is done.

Absalom.

Questions: What is the form of the poem ?

How did you know what it was about?

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

7

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Guyana's gold reserves on path to recovery …BoG shows over $5B now in gold reserves

A

frequent criticism of the former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government has been the way Guyana’s gold reserves slid downhill from 2015 to the time they left office last year. However, recent data released by the Bank of Guyana showed that the gold reserves are on the path to recovery.

According to the Bank of Guyana’s recently gazetted Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of March 24, 2021, the bank has $5.1 billion in its gold reserves.

This, coupled with money and capital market securities and balances with banks, amounts to $134.3 billion in foreign assets.

When the former David Granger Administration took office in May 2015, the gold held in Guyana’s reserve was valued at $15 billion, according to fig-

ures released by the Bank of Guyana in its Statement of Assets and Liabilities published in the Official Gazette, on May 30, 2015.

But in an Official Gazette published on February 29, 2020, three days before General and Regional Elections on March 2, the gold reserve held less than $1 billion remaining.

According to the Bank of Guyana’s figures, when Guyanese went to the polls, the gold reserve was valued at $635 million. Bank of Guyana had previously defended a decision to sell off portions of Guyana’s gold reserves, saying the move was reflective of “strategic trading”.

Central Bank at the time had said it trades gold and replenishes the stock based on market opportunities.

The bank noted that gold is not managed as an exclusive reserve asset for holding, but as part of a portfolio of

assets.

However, it has been pointed out by former Opposition Leader and now Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, while on the campaign trail, that the former Administration depleted hundreds of millions of dollars that was left in the country’s treasury and handed over to it in 2015, but there has been little to no developments to date that would account for the taxpayers’ dollars.

A total of 584,291 ounces of gold were declared to the Guyana Gold Board in 2020.

Of this amount, small- and medium-scale miners were able to up their production to 485,552 ounces of gold for the year – representing 75 per cent of the country’s total production.

The Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners’ Association (GGDMA) had highlighted the contributions made by these stake-

Govt will invest heavily in...

“In 2005, floods caused economic damage equivalent to 60 per cent of GDP. On the other hand, our forests make a very substantial contribution in the global fight against climate change. The LCDS paved the way for us to join with Norway in 2009 in the world’s third-largest international forest partnership under which the climate services provided by our forests were remunerated

for the first time – making available US$250 million of performance-based payment for climate services to finance climate-friendly investments.”

Caricom

Minister Singh also chaired the Eighth Special Meeting of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) Council on Finance and Planning (COFAP). The meeting, held virtual-

The Bank of Guyana

holders, noting that it amounts to US$808,587,118 in export earnings, compared to US$619 million earned in 2019. In 2019, gold declarations were 634,905 ounces

While 2020 saw reduced gold declarations compared to the previous year, it did see a number of gold finds.

For instance, Australiabased mining company Alicanto Minerals made

its first-ever gold find in Guyana in November, only days after another mining company, Troy Resources, had announced that it had found gold deposits underground.

the intra-Caricom Double Taxation Agreement.”

In his opening remarks at the meeting, Minister Singh also pointed out that the meeting was taking place at a time when the region was facing unprecedented economic challenges, resulting from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which have brought into sharp focus the importance of speaking with a single unified voice on issues of

shared interest at the upcoming IMF/World Bank Spring Meetings.

He also highlighted the urgency with which progress is needed on many of the long outstanding issues that need to be addressed to advance the supportive architecture for the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME), and urged that these matters be dealt with conclusively and in a timely manner.

FROM PAGE 3

ly, brought together several Prime Ministers and Finance Ministers, as well as Central Bank Governors and other senior finance officials.

“Thursday’s meeting involved Ministers of Finance exchanging views on joint advocacy positions that they may wish to adopt during the upcoming International Monetary Fund (IMF) - World Bank Spring Meetings 2021,”

a statement from the Ministry said.

“The meeting also addressed and reached agreement on a number of longstanding issues related to the CSME, including the Caricom Policies on Credit Reporting, Deposit Insurance, Development and Regulation of the Regional Securities Market, as well as the Caricom Financial Services Agreement and

8

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Rallying the nation...

Y

...against COVID our Eyewitness doesn’t want to suggest that the fight against COVID-19 is easy. Some have said our lockdown policy’s been too flexible. They compare it with Trinidad’s more draconian one that has seen their borders still sealed tight. Even locking out hundreds of their own citizens and raising the ire of local Trinis. At first glance, it would seem that their policy has worked, since, with twice our population, they’ve only had 145 fatalities compared with our 243 – as of yesterday.

But that’s really comparing apples to oranges since Trinidad is an island— allowing them to control their borders much more effectively. We know to our cost that our Brazilian border is very porous – think of all those Haitians disappearing without a trace and multiply that by ten since most of those coming in the opposite direction INTO our country might be relatives or residents of the Rupununi.

The Venezuelan border, while less populated, isn’t much more difficult to cross. And finally, our government has been monitoring flights into the country and there haven’t been any reports of infections coming from that quarter.

In the meantime, the vaccination programme has been launched – 40,000 jabbed to date – and is being ramped up this week. One constraint might be the vaccine supply chain. But we’ve got to be honest and admit that the weak link in the fight is “we, the people”. With all the information spewing out in every conceivable medium, no Guyanese can say they’re unaware of the protocols to follow to prevent infection. Too many of us have refused to wear masks and observe social distancing in public.

And in this your Eyewitness believes that we really don’t have just a health problem...but a related social and economic one. Did you see the crowds that gathered for Holi? And if you did, you sure didn’t see the masks the merry-makers were supposed to be wearing, as they doused each other with abeer and coloured powder. Your Eyewitness is waiting for the reports on the Easter kite flying but from the announced sales of kites, the crowds were probably out in force. We just gotta change our culturally inculcated behaviours – at least until this pandemic passes.

Look at the difference in the death rates between those countries with disciplined populations – China and the Far East, for example and the more “liberal” West that includes Guyana. In our refusal to accept that individuals don’t necessarily act for the good of his/her group, we ignore the need for stricter enforcement of the rules.

The Government has started cracking down on bars and restaurants. They’ve now got to toughen up like they just did against kite flying! ...against gas It’s been mind boggling to witness the naysayers of the gas-to-shore project jumping on their soapboxes to denounce VP Jagdeo. Not the Government, mind you, but Jagdeo. He’s always been in the cross hairs of that lot. Remember them dumping on him after he persuaded Norway to fork over US$250M just for us maintaining our rate of deforestation? How dare we save our forests!?

AMAILA Falls hydro also teed them off!

Now, they’re concerned about the same global warming they were fighting against then – and want to keep our oil and gas under the sea! That train having left the station, they’re now trying to block the gas being brought ashore to the projected Industrial Complex at Wales. All sorts of arguments about the costs of the gas pipeline and so on.

They insist on just looking at power generation – ignoring production of urea, methanol, etc. Who are these people? The new Luddites to keep us barefoot (and pregnant)?

It’s a gas! ...against the tyranny of distance Did you ever stop to think that the major cause of why our Indigenous sisters and brothers have remained the poorest of the poor has been because of their remoteness?

The Govt’s new infrastructural drive will eliminate both.

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

NEWS

9

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

4 more die from COVID-19, death toll now 247 …active cases surpass 1000

C

OVID-19 deaths continue to rise in Guyana, with four more persons succumbing to the life-threatening virus as of Sunday. This takes the total number of deaths from the pandemic to 247.

The Health Ministry on Monday reported that

a 73-year-old female from Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), a 59-year-old man from Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni); a 44-year-old man from Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara) and a 67-year-old female from Region Four (Demerara-

Mahaica) succumbed.

They all died while receiving care at medical facilities.

In total, 14 persons have succumbed to the virus for the month of April thus far – an alarming start as one week is yet to be completed.

Nevertheless, 26 new cases were recorded on Sunday from 316 samples that were sent for testing. According to new statistics released by the Ministry, the total number of confirmed cases in the country is now 10,606 – 5408 males and 5198 females.

There are 1071 active cases: 14 in the designated Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 985 in home isolation and 72 in institutional isolation. Another 12 persons are also in institutional quarantine.

The data showed that 9289 patients have recovered from the life-threatening virus while 93,761 have been tested.

From the new cases, four were detected in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara), seven in Region Four; seven in Region Five (DemeraraMahaica); one in Region Six

(East Berbice-Corentyne); two in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) and five in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

The cases in Regions One (Barima-Waini), Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) remain at 1028, 264, 247 and 441 respectively.

Meanwhile, Guyana has been steadfast in rolling out its vaccination campaign.

According to the Health Ministry on Sunday, since the exercise commenced in February some 40,468 COVID-19 vaccines have

been administered across the country including several second doses.

Last week, Guyana surpassed 3000 vaccinations in a day on three occasions.

The highest number of vaccinations were recorded in the three largest populated regions – Demerara-Mahaica, East Berbice-Corentyne and Essequibo Islands-West Demerara, respectively.

The least numbers were recorded in Region Eight, followed by Region 10 and Region Nine. Only these three regions have recorded less than 1000 vaccinations so far.

Nevertheless, the Ministry is looking to ramp up the vaccine rollout and has set a target of 40,000 first dose jabs to be administered along with several hundreds of the second dose. As such, more than 100 fixedsite and mobile teams will be administering first and second dose vaccines starting today, Tuesday, April 6.

Persons who are 40 years and older are eligible to receive the jab. These include all health workers, teachers, members of the Joint Services, public servants as well as Private Sector employees.

10 NEWS

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Police yet to arrest man who Gunmen attack, rob duo impersonated a CANU agent at Mon Repos

Wanted: Kevin “Brother Fraud” McDonald

T

wo months after Senior Magistrate Leron Daly had issued a warrant for the arrest of Kevin McDonald also known as “Brother Fraud” for failing to attend court to answer to abduction charges, the Police are yet to arrest him.

On January 29, the Police brought two counts of abduction charges against McDonald. This was after he allegedly posed as a CANU rank and attempted to arrest a civilian, Ryan Gonsalves.

However, McDonald had failed to appear in court for the charges to be read to him. As such, an arrest warrant was issued and the

matter was adjourned to April 9, 2021.

It was reported that McDonald, of Nabaclis, East Coast Demerara (ECD), a former member of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), had attempted to arrest the man in the vicinity of Thomas and Middle Streets, Georgetown.

According to information received, during the “operation”, the fraudster was decked with a body camera and handcuffs while driving a heavily tinted white Toyota Premio motor car.

The Police had stated that McDonald had approached the young man claiming that he was wanted for the possession of narcotics, and would be taken to the Brickdam Police Station.

The young man, however, refused to go with McDonald and demanded that he properly identify himself, but this was not forthcoming, and as such, the young man put up a resistance.

At that time, the fraudster attempted to force the young man into his car. By that time, Police on patrol noticed the commotion and went to the scene.

Upon seeing the ranks, the wanted man jumped into his car and fled the scene. The Police gave chase and intercepted the motor car.

He was arrested but failed to produce identification to substantiate that he was attached to the Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU).

McDonald was held in custody at the Brickdam Police station where he was subsequently released on bail pending his court appearance. “Brother Fraud” was slapped with four counts of forgery charges back in 2016.

Police had charged him after he had forged receipts to Yohini Latchman, Principal Assistant Secretary (Finance) at the former Ministry of Culture; and he had also forged receipts showing payments made to him by Universal Machinery.

P

olice are investigating an armed robbery with violence which occurred on Sunday evening at Mon Repos School Road, East Coast Demerara (ECD), on a group of men who were having a few drinks.

Police stated that Rameez Mohamed and Ryan Singh were imbibing with some friends when one of three men approached them and shouted “watch them

man”.

The crowd reportedly dispersed and started running in different directions. Mohamed, on the other hand, fell onto the roadway as he was running. At that time, he was confronted by two other men who relieved him of a Samsung A71 phone, a Samsung J8, one gold ring, one gold chain and $175,000 in cash.

During the ordeal, Singh

was dealt one blow to the head with a gun, thus causing him to lose consciousness. The bandits then took one Samsung S21 phone and $25,000 in cash from him.

The suspects then made good their escape on separate bicycles heading west into a nearby street. A report was made and ranks have since collected statements. Investigations are underway.

Taxi driver arrested after brawl with Police

A

37-year-old taxi driver was taken into custody and is expected to be charged after he allegedly damaged an officer’s cellphone and assaulted another rank.

Anthony Rahaman of Canefield, East Canje, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), was arrested on Sunday during a Joint Services patrol in New Amsterdam.

Police in a statement related that ranks were conducting a patrol in the vicinity of Castle Hotel, Chappell Street, New Amsterdam, when they

observed a large gathering of persons who were at the time in breach of the COVID-19 protocols.

Ranks said that the individuals were on the roadway consuming alcohol and were not wearing masks.

As such, officers attempted to arrest the violators. It was during the arrest, Rahaman began to behave in a disorderly manner towards the Police.

At that time, the man was warned about his behaviour which he failed to correct.

Further, a Corporal who was present attempted to arrest Rahaman but he re-

sisted and allegedly pushed the officer into a drain.

Following this, Rahaman allegedly slapped a mobile phone out of an inspector’s hand and it landed in the same drain. At the time, the inspector was using her cellphone to record what was unfolding.

The disorderly man was eventually subdued by the army ranks and taken to the New Amsterdam Police Station where he was arrested pending charges.

The Police also confirmed that a total of 17 persons were also arrested at the same location.

in the area when ranks observed the man standing in the vicinity of the car park acting in a suspicious manner.

He was approached and a request was made for him to be searched. During this activity, five transparent ziplock plastic bags - each con-

taining a quantity of ganja - were discovered.

He was arrested and taken to the Leonora Police Station, where the suspected cannabis sativa was weighed in his presence and amounted 11 grams. The barber remains in custody pending charges.

Barber busted with cannabis during Police operation

C

harges will soon be laid against a barber after he was busted with a quantity of cannabis on Sunday during a Police operation at Tuschen Public Road, East Bank Essequibo (EBE).

According to reports, a mobile Police patrol was

NEWS

11

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021|| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Swan man found stabbed to death in home

– 2 brothers taken into Police custody

The house in which the man’s body was found

T

Dead: Roy Ross

he lifeless body of a 24-year-old man was on Monday morning found in his Swan Village, Soesdyke-Linden Highway home with multiple stab wounds about his body.

The dead man has been

The two suspects under guard at the scene on Monday

Scores of residents gathered at the scene

identified as Roy Ross, a father of one and formerly of Kuru Kururu, SoesdykeLinden Highway. Ross reportedly moved to Swan Village a few months ago and was renting a house along with his reputed wife and child.

However, based on reports received, on the day in question, the now dead man who worked at a poultry farm was found at about 06:00h by a neighbour who called out to him and got no response. His body reportedly bore stab wounds to the chest and shoulder.

Ross was last seen alive at about 21:00h on Sunday evening in his yard with a torchlight making checks around his home. At the time, he was at home alone.

His wife and child had gone to visit relatives.

When Guyana Times arrived at the scene, the area was cordoned off and the Police were conducting their investigations. Scores of residents and relatives of the dead man had gathered in curiosity.

One relative, a cousin, explained that she lives a short distance away and at about 06:30h, she received

news that Ross was dead.

She immediately rushed to the scene where she saw him lying in a pool of blood with several stab wounds about his body.

She recalled seeing her cousin alive last week when he visited her. While she could not say much about what transpired, the woman noted that he was a friendly and quiet person who did not get in anyone’s way.

She, however, stated that from time to time, Ross and his wife would be involved in heated arguments.

In fact, residents corroborated this, claiming that it was only Saturday evening the couple was heard arguing.

Nevertheless, during their investigations, the detectives arrested two brothers after a blood-stained jersey was found in their home. But a cousin of the two young men is holding out that they did not commit the act.

She explained that her cousins were out with friends on Sunday evening and returned home shortly before midnight. The woman could not say where the blood on the jersey came from but was sure that the two men were wrongfully accused of murder.

She pointed out that the two suspects and a few other men in the area had some “hard talking” on Sunday evening but they walked away before it could have escalated. Fast track to Monday morning, she recalled being at home making breakfast when she heard a commotion and upon enquiring, she was told that Ross was murdered.

With speed, she went

to the scene where she saw Ross’ body lying in the living room of his home with stab wounds. The woman further related that it was a neighbour who found the body but for some reason, the police arrested her cousins.

“People claim that they see two persons jumping through Roy window - one was wearing all black and another one a vest and a black pants…my cousins left home in white T-shirts… so how can someone jump to the conclusion that they attacked and kill Roy,” the woman stated.

She is hoping that the Police conduct a thorough investigation into the murder so that her cousins’ names can be cleared. Meanwhile, residents related that the two suspects are troublemakers and would have in-

flicted injuries on others before.

One woman told Guyana Times that one of the suspects attacked and chopped her son about a year ago and although a report was lodged with the Police, he was walking scotch free.

She further stated that the same suspect also injured her husband. Nothing came out of the matters, the woman claimed.

In fact, one resident told this publication that one of the accused turned up at her home on Sunday evening and told her that he “feels like killing someone tonight.” She said that he left and she did not take him seriously until Ross’ body was discovered.

When contacted, Shebeke St Claire, a sister of the dead man, explained that her brother visited

them at Better Hope, East Coast Demerara, about two weeks ago and that was the last time they spoke with him or saw him alive.

She noted that they would have received the dreaded news on Monday morning at about 7:30h and immediately went to the scene.

She too could not say what might have been the reason for her brother receiving such a gruesome death since he was never a trouble maker. “Due to his quietness, he was always being taken advantage of,” the sister noted.

Ross leaves to mourn his mother who was too devastated to speak with the media at the scene and six siblings. His body was taken to Lyken’s Funeral Home as Police continue their investigations.

12 NEWS

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

20 matters completed at Berbice, Essequibo Criminal Assizes

A

Berbice High Court

total of 20 matters have been completed so far at the Essequibo and Berbice Criminal Assizes which remain in progress and will continue until May 17 and June 14, 2021, respectively. Justice Simone MorrisRamlall sat until January

2021, closing the October 2020 Assizes for Essequibo.

She then opened the February 2021 Assizes on February 2, 2021.

A total of 101 cases are listed to be heard during this session but only 13 were disposed of thus far. Of the 13, eight were for the offence

of murder, two for attempt to commit murder and three for sexual offences.

In three of the eight murder cases, one of the accused was found not guilty by the jury. Two of them were sentenced to life imprisonment, while the other accused was found guilty on the lesser count of manslaughter and sentenced to an 11-year jail term.

In the other five cases, there were six accused persons who all pleaded guilty to the lesser offence of manslaughter. They were each sentenced to 16 years, 15 years, nine years, and two months, 11 years, and 13 years and two months’ imprisonment. In one of these cases, a co-accused minor was sentenced to two months in custody and three

years of probation.

There were two cases for the offence of attempt to commit murder with alternate counts of felonious wounding. The juries in these cases returned unanimous verdicts for the alternate count and the two accused were each sentenced to six years and seven months and seven years and 11 months in prison.

In one of the three sexual offences matters, the accused pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 11 years’ imprisonment. The complainants in the other two matters informed the court they did not wish to proceed with their evidence and the Judge directed the jury to return formal not guilty verdicts.

Meanwhile, the Essequibo Criminal Assizes commenced on February 16, 2021, with 71 cases listed to be heard. Of the 71 cases, seven of them were presented before Justice Gino Persaud. Of these seven matters, there were five for the offence of murder and one each for the offences of manslaughter and rape of a child under 16 years.

In two of the murder cases, two accused pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter. One accused was sentenced to seven

Court of Appeal

years, two months and six days’ imprisonment while the other is awaiting sentencing. In one of the other two cases, the accused was found guilty by a jury and is awaiting sentencing.

The jury in the other case returned hung and the accused was remanded back to prison to await a new trial.

One case was aborted after it commenced because the court found out that one of the jurors was over 60 years old. The accused in this matter was also remanded back to prison to await a new trial. The accused who was indicted for manslaughter was found guilty by a jury and is awaiting sentencing.

The matter for the offence of rape of a child under 16 years is ongoing.

So far for 2021, the DPP

Chambers appeared in eight appeals at the Court of Appeal for the offences of murder, manslaughter, rape, assault causing actual bodily harm, sexual activity with a child under 16 years, dangerous driving, and possession of explosives.

Of these seven appeals, six were applications to appeal against conviction and sentences. In one case, the court granted the appellant his application to have a new trial for the offence of murder.

Another application was allowed in part with the sentence being varied. One application was withdrawn, while the three other applications were dismissed.

Another two appeals against conviction and sentences are ongoing.

Tuschen man robbed by driver, passenger after boarding taxi

A

taxi ride turned into a robbery on Monday morning after a passenger was ambushed and robbed by the driver and another passenger.

The incident unfolded at about 01:50h at Tuschen Scheme, East Bank Essequibo (EBE).

The victim, Ali Mohamed, alleged that he left his sister’s residence to go home

and walked to the “blacka” junction to await transportation. Shortly after, he stopped a mauve Toyota Fielder Wagon and indicated his destination.

When Ali boarded the vehicle, another unidentifiable male was seated in the back behind the driver. While he was in the vicinity of Tuschen “blacka”, the driver turned the corner right of the junction and stopped.

It was at that stage, the victim claimed that he was dealt several cuffs about his body by the said taxi driver

who is popularly known as “Robin” and the other individual.

He was relieved of $20,000 in cash and was subsequently thrown out of the vehicle. The two suspects made good their escape, leaving him on the roadway in pain. The man, with the assistance of passersby, contacted the Police.

Checks were made for the suspects and the vehicle, which proved futile. Several persons in the area were questioned but no useful information was received.

Investigations are ongoing.

NEWS

13

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

AG joins criminal appeal challenging constitutionality of death penalty

Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC

A

ttorney General Anil Nandlall, SC, has filed a motion at the Guyana Court of Appeal asking to be joined as an interested party in an appeal filed by three former Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guards who were sentenced to death by hanging in 2013 for murder.

The murder convicts – Sherwyne Harte, Devon Gordon, and Deon Greenidge – were found guilty of the August 20, 2009 murder of Bartica gold miner, Dwieve Kant Ramdass. The death sentence was imposed on

each of them by High Court Judge Franklin Holder.

In asking the Court of Appeal to set aside their conviction and sentence, the convicted killers, among other things, argued that the death penalty is unlawful as it is contrary to the Constitution of Guyana. They also argued that the death penalty is unconstitutional as it is contrary to the constitutional right under Article (1) and Article 40 (1) of the Constitution.

Through their lawyers Nigel Hughes and Latchmie Rahamat, the convicts submitted that Article 40 (1) of the Constitution provides a free-standing right to life and human dignity which prohibits the imposition of the death penalty “and which is separately enforceable and outwith the scope of the general savings clause in Article 152 of the Constitution.”

According to the lawyers, the imposition of the death penalty is a breach of the constitutional prohibition against inhuman and degrading punishments or other treatment within Article 141 of the Constitution because the capital punishment offends against the evolving standings of humanity

as demonstrated by domestic and international State practice.

“The execution of the death penalty following a lengthy de-facto moratorium would be contrary to Guyana’s binding international law obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). The imposition of a penalty which cannot be lawfully effected is itself cruel and unusual in breach of Article 141 of the Constitution.”

Public interest

In a Notice of Motion requesting to be joined as an interested party in the criminal appeal, Nandlall said that the matter raises novel and important constitutional issues which go to the core of Guyana’s constitutional ethos and addresses the vexed question of the legality of the death penalty.

“The Attorney General is seeking to intervene as a party to the appeal to assist the court with written and oral submissions to aid the court in putting all cases and relevant authorities before the court,” Legal Officer Ocelisa Marks said in an affidavit.

Marks said that the

Govt opens applications for online scholarships

Education Minister Priya Manickchand

Public Service Minister Sonia Parag

n keeping with the manifesto promise of delivering 20,000 scholarships within the first term in office, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government has opened the application process for persons to apply in a number of disciplines.

The Education Ministry in collaboration with the Public Service Ministry announced that applications will now be accepted for the awarding of these scholarships.

The Ministry of Education is working on operationalising the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL), which will house this programme, within the first half of 2021. This programme is for Guyanese across all communities in every region and will be made accessible accordingly.

The Education Ministry has the responsibility of managing the academic and technical aspects of the programme while the Public Service Ministry will award

the scholarships. Presently, they vary from diplomas, undergraduate and graduate degrees from several universities.

Since taking office in August 2020, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration had issued over 445 scholarships for both local and international studies as of February, totalling more than $80 million.

Public Service Minister Sonia Parag had informed the National Assembly that a total of 39 scholarships were awarded locally, amounting to some $16.1 million. This includes some 34 scholarships to the University of Guyana (UG) to the tune of $13.2 million.

Three scholarships were also granted for the Guyana School of Agriculture totalling some $855,000. Additionally, one scholarship each was issued to Art Williams and Harry Wendt Aeronautical School and Texila American

I

University to the tune of $880,000 and $1,100,000 respectively.

The Minister pointed out that in excess of $67 million in scholarships was issued for studies overseas. Of these 35 scholarships, seven were study leave with pay while two were donor-funded.

President Dr Irfaan Ali has promised to grant 20,000 scholarships to Guyanese over the next four years. In fact, in the 2020 Emergency Budget, the PPP/C Government had earmarked over $1 billion for the award of scholarships for both local and overseas studies, as well as training of public servants.

At a press conference last August, mere weeks after assuming office, Minister Parag had disclosed that the system for vetting scholarships was heavily flawed under the David Granger-led regime.

“What I have found is that the system that we have for vetting scholarships is heavily flawed. That is what I have personally observed, and that is something that I plan to review and change. If I may say, it is skewed to one demographic and geographic in Guyana. That has been going on for the last five years,” the Public Service Minister had revealed during a virtual press conference.

For persons who had applied before and were denied, or those who were facing other difficulties, the Minister said such will be looked at on a case-by-case basis. The entire system will be reviewed to ensure that these services benefit all stakeholders.

Murder convicts: Sherwyne Harte, Devon Gordon, and Deon Greenidge

Attorney General is the principal legal advisor to the Government of Guyana and has a public duty to protect the public’s interest and is the keeper of the public’s conscience.

Against this backdrop, she deposed, “The adding of the Attorney General will certainly assist the court and further the development of the law and jurisprudence relating to the death penalty.”

According to Marks, the nature of the appeal makes it a public interest matter because it is a challenge to the constitutionality of the death penalty for its complete removal from the laws of Guyana which is a matter of high constitutional law.

“The court has both a power and a duty to modify rele-

vant legislation to ensure it is rendered consistent with fundamental rights and principles of the Constitution,” Marks noted in the affidavit.

Fresh evidence

At a Case Management Conference (CMC) in the substantive matter, Hughes informed the court that he will be leading fresh evidence on the lawfulness of the death penalty and will be calling two witnesses – a professor at the Middlesex University and a Professor from the Columbia Law School.

Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Dionne McCammon will lead the case for the State.

Meanwhile, the Notice of Motion will come up for hearing on April 30, 2021, at the

Court of Appeal. It will be conducted via Zoom. In the meantime, the Appeal Court has fixed strict timelines by when the respective parties are to layover submissions and affidavits ahead of the hearing.

It was reported that on the day in question, at Caiman Hole in the Essequibo River, the former GDF ranks forced Ramdass into their boat and relieved him of $17 million, which he was carrying in a box for his employer. They then dumped Ramdass overboard.

During the three-monthlong trial, the prosecution called 16 witnesses. The court also admitted caution statements given by the former GDF Coast Guards following a voir dire.

14 NEWS

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Home improvement subsidies to be extended – Min Croal ...Vigilance to Diamond, WBD to also benefit

T

he home improvement subsidies given to Guyanese homeowners under the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) funded Adequate Housing and Urban Accessibility Programme will see its boundaries extended along the East Coast, East Bank and the West Bank of Demerara (WBD).

In an invited comment, Housing Minister Collin Croal revealed that the IDB recently granted its no objection to the initiative. As a consequence, the home improvement subsidy that

was previously rolled out by the Central Housing and Planning Authority will be extended.

“We have received approval for the extension of the boundaries. So, for the East Coast, it will reach to Vigilance. Of course, on the East Bank, it will be up to Grove-Diamond. And then over to Parfaite Harmonie on the (West Bank of Demerara). So that’s where the home improvement programme will be further extended to.”

The Adequate Housing and Urban Accessibility

Programme is a US$27 million initiative executed by the CH&PA. Its components include home subsidies, construction of public infrastructure and the construction of core homes.

In fact, the Government currently has tenders out for contractors to construct core homes in Sophia, Greater Georgetown. According to Minister Croal, the infrastructure aspect of the programme is proceeding apace.

“The infrastructure work consists of the upgrade of roads, drains, including concrete drains, the instal-

Sophia man arrested for $3.5M heist at Pouderoyen

A

n ex-cop was on Sunday evening arrested for the robbery committed on a boat captain and a sales representative while they were dining at a restaurant at Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara (WBD).

It was reported that Christopher Cornette of B Field Sophia is currently in custody in relation to the armed robbery and is assisting with investigations.

The 22-year-old is said to have been arrested on Sunday at his mother’s home. Police are nevertheless hunting for the second suspect.

On Saturday evening, Navindra Kooblall and Leon Dyal were robbed at the Hong Xiang restaurant, at Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara (WBD).

Christopher Cornette

Police said that between 20:15h and 20:30h, the gunmen had pounced upon the friends while they were dining.

They managed to escape with a whopping $3.5 mil-

lion worth of gold jewellery, cash and other valuables.

Kooblall was reportedly relieved of six gold chains valued at $2,145,000, two gold rings valued at $220,000, one gold band valued at $400,000 along with an iPhone 11 Pro Max cell phone valued at $320,000, one Samsung A17 cell phone valued at $150,000 and US$1500.

His friend Dyal was relieved of one Samsung A50 cellular phone valued at $60,000 along with $155,000 in local currency and US$200.

Following the robbery, the two armed men made good their escape in their getaway car – a white 212 motor vehicle.

The entire ordeal was captured on the CCTV cameras.

Housing Minister Collin Croal

lation of streetlights and sidewalks. That has been ongoing,” the Minister further explained to this publication.

The tenders inviting bids from contractors to construct core homes in the community of Sophia were recently launched by the Government of Guyana.

According to the particulars of the contract tender, bidders were invited to bid for the construction of core homes in Sophia, Georgetown, in lots one to

five. Their bids must be submitted by April 13, 2021.

The tender notes that funding was received from the IDB’s Road Network Upgrade and Expansion Programme, Adequate Housing and Urban Accessibility. According to the contract, each lot has a construction period of 150 days.

“Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding procedures specified in the IDB’s Policies for the Procurement of Works and Goods Financed by the IDB and is open to bidders from all countries as defined in the guideline,” the tender stipulates.

The national housing development plan for 2021 includes the construction of 1000 homes for low-income earners in areas such as Cummings Lodge, Prospect, Providence, Little Diamond, Great Diamond, Onderneeing, Wales, Ordinance, Fortlands, Hampshire, Williamsburg and Amelia’s Ward. Another 100 is set aside for the hinterland communities.

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government is mobilising to distribute a total of 10,000 house lots to Guyanese in 2021, in keeping with their manifesto promise to deliver 50,000 lots within their first term in office.

The areas which will be developed for allocations this year include Onderneeming in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam); Tuschen, Zeelugt, La Parfaite Harmonie, West Minister, Lust-en-Rust, Belle West in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara); Farm, Covent Garden, Providence, Prospect, Perseverance, Peters Hall, Good Hope, Mon Repos, Non Pariel, Hope South, Hope Estate in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica); Bath Settlement, Hope, Experiment in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice).

Also included are Ordinance, Kilcoy, Chesney in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne); Culvert City in Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo); and Amelia’s Ward, Linden, in Region 10.

Region 6's active COVID cases worrying – Regional Chairman

W

ith the spike of COVID-19 cases in Guyana, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) Chairman David Armogan said the figure is worrying.

Guyana, as of Sunday, had over 1000 active cases of which Region Six accounted for over 70.

Addressing the Regional Democratic Council (RDC)

Region Six Chairman David Armagon

recently, Armogan urged residents to take the current situation seriously.

“If you have noticed in the last few weeks there has been an increase in deaths nationally. We all need to take our responsibility seriously. We all need to ensure that at all times when we leave our homes, we wear our face mask, observe social distancing, sanitise regularly and ensure that all of the other practices that have been listed by the Ministry of Health we take them seriously.”

His plea comes as the National COVID-19 Task Force announced that the 22:30h to 04:00h curfew will remain in place for the

month of April.

Echoing the Chairman’s statement, A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance for Change (AFC) Councillor Colin More stated that the RDC needs to take the pandemic seriously and reiterated the need for them to lead by example.

“This will help us to flatten the curve nationally. The guidelines have been provided by the Ministry but they are not being enforced. I am asking that we enforce these guidelines because people feel that it is just business as usual,” he noted.

Meanwhile, over 9000 persons in the region have already received their first shot of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Regional Health Officer, Dr Vishalya Sharma noted that the focus is now on administering the vaccines to persons over 40 years old.

She explained that shut-ins were visited at their places of residence in the region and given the first dose.

Meanwhile, the Police in the region had stepped up their campaign to ensure that persons adhere to the COVID-19 guidelines.

Last week, officers from Central Police Station in New Amsterdam held a COVID-19 sensitisation campaign in light of the holiday weekend.

NEWS

15

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

National mangrove monitoring platform to be established

Mangrove Restoration and Management Department Coordinator Kene Moseley

M

angroves are considered Guyana’s natural sea defence and are essential in providing several eco-system services. In fact, studies have shown that mangroves provide about five to 10 times more carbon storage than terrestrial forests.

And given Guyana’s low carbon development trajectory, mangroves are pivotal in this regard.

In keeping with this thrust, a national mangrove monitoring platform will be established this year to foster a better understanding of the factors affecting their

depletion, and other methods aimed at advancing technology to accomplish the Government’s agenda.

The platform is the result of a partnership between the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT).

The parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in December 2020, which also caters to a Geographic Information System (GIS) consultant at NAREI. Coordinator of the Mangrove Restoration and Management Department, Kene Moseley, during a recent interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI), said while the Department utilises GIS software to monitor mangroves, its capacity is currently limited to its restoration sites.

She said to plan effectively, there must be an understanding of what is happening along the entire coast, and the only way to achieve this is by using enhanced technology. “Remote sensing technology and that is what we are going to be having with this project.”

Moseley added that currently, the restoration activity is being monitored to determine the success of the intervention, the survival rate, how the seedlings are growing, and the ability of the forest to extend linearly in terms of colonising the neighbouring village.

“As long as you have a forest that is healthy and providing seeds, and the neighbouring sites if there is no mangrove there and the site conditions are suitable, they would colonise naturally. That is what we’re looking for, a successful restoration activity,” she added.

Moreover, she pointed out that the new intervention will also provide an understanding of the impact of the restoration initiatives.

“It’s not just that we would have restored, for instance, Better Hope, but as a result of restoring Better Hope, you have a significant natural regeneration happening at Plaisance, Sparendaam going all the way to Ogle.”

“Now that we are going to be able to use the technology and remote sensing combined with the GIS, we are going to be able to do that analysis to provide information, not just for us, but the

Mangroves in Guyana

Government as well, and give us better tools with regards to planning our future restoration initiatives,” she continued.

In 2020, the Department focused on creating a suitable environment for mangroves to be restored at Anna Regina, Essequibo, and Beterverwagting and La Bonne Intention, East Coast Demerara.

Moseley explained that the elevation at those locations was not sufficient for

mangroves to colonise the areas.

“At Anna Regina, we completed construction of a 200-metre geotextile tube groyne and the function of that structure is to increase sedimentation and thereby reaching the suitable elevation so that mangroves can be restored.”

“At Beterverwagting and La Bonne Intention, the project we are working there are groynes as well but we are using a different mate-

rial. We do research to see which material works best, and on the East Coast we are working with rocks or boulder.”

She stated that significant progress was made at the La Bonne Intention lot which was about 85 per cent completed by the end of last year. The COVID pandemic resulted in some setbacks in the supply of rocks for the Beterverwagting lot which the Department is hoping to complete this year.

16 NEWS

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Several arrested in Essequibo for breaching COVID-19 guidelines

Police making a raid on the Essequibo Coast

S

cores of Essequibians who were caught in large gatherings on Easter Monday were arrest-

ed for breaching COVID-19 guidelines. The violators were arrested at Adventure Resort, Lake Mainstay

Resort, Golden Fleece and Capoey Lake.

Based on reports received, a crowd had gathered at the popular Capoey Lake although they were warned in advance not to do so.

The Police were strict in reinforcing the COVID-19 guidelines as the number of deaths and new cases skyrocketed over the past few days. On Sunday alone, four persons died from the virus.

The families were arrested while picnicking at the popular resorts.

The National COVID-19 Task Force Secretariat advised that persons were prohibited from Easter activities held in parks, resorts, lakes, creeks. Consumption of alcohol was also prohibited.

Up to press time, the

The entrance to Kingston Seawall on Monday

Police had not released any information with respect to the number of persons who were arrested. The violators are expected to make their

court appearance today.

Meanwhile, in Georgetown, the Police blocked off several hotspots including the Kingston

Seawall, National Park, D’Urban Park and the Botanical Gardens among others.

Abnormal rainfall across Guyana affects 1st crop rice harvest – Minister urges farmers to use dams discretely

The first crop being harvested

A tractor using one of the rehabilitated dams

T

he Hydromet Office at the Ministry of Agriculture has issued an advisory that continuous moderate to heavy rainfall and thundershowers are expected along with possible flooding in low lying areas.

Taking this into consideration, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has urged rice farmers to exercise discretion while using dams as they ply their trade.

The rainy season comes at a time when farmers are halfway through the first crop rice harvest, with many fearing that the rains may severely inhibit harvesting and rehabilitated dams will become impassable.

The Agriculture Minister noted that Guyana is currently experiencing a high intensity of rainfall and while his Ministry has repaired dams to the tune of millions of dollars, those dams could become deplorable due to the movement of heavy machinery on them.

“So, I want to ask farmers that they must be cautious. We will try our best

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha

as possible to maintain these dams. We have allocated a lot of money to do repairs and maintenance as usual and we would have liked to see that these repairs last until the end of the crop,” Mustapha said.

But even as the rains threaten the remaining harvest, initial figures indicate that this first crop could be a bumper crop for farmers, with the GRDB reporting that yields on average have moved up from 35 bags per acre to 38 bags.

GRDB’s acting General

Manager Kulkip Ragnauth believes that farmers are reaping the results of better agronomic practices.

However, he stated that harvesting has been delayed due to the current rains. Nevertheless, he is optimistic that if the rains abate, farmers will be able to catch up on their harvesting.

“The yields are very good. The yield to date is about six tons per hectare which is about 38 bags per acre.”

Region Four (DemeraraMahaica) has been reporting the highest yields, Ragnauth said while noting that Black Bush Polder in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) was not far behind. About 80 per cent of the crop has been harvested in the Black Bush Polder.

In fact, some farmers are already preparing to commence the second crop.

“The GRBD-16 which is the latest released by the Board was made commercially available to farmers this season and we have seen great performances by that verity also the other verities as well; GRDB-15.

GRDB-14 as well as GRDB12. We cannot leave out the fact that GRDB-10 is one of the players in the industry,” Ragnauth noted.

Based on the figures provided by the GRDB, the Agriculture Minister is confident that weather permitting, farmers will be enjoying a record-breaking harvest this first crop.

“Our quota to various parts of the world has been increased. For example, right here in Brazil, our quota has been in-

Acting GRDB General Manager Kulkip Ragnauth

creased from 10,000 tonnes to 34,000 tonnes which is 24,000 additional tonnes.

We have gotten new markets in Hungary and Latvia and I am hoping that we can have more markets coming on stream because right now we are working very closely with our Caribbean neighbours to increase our quota in those countries.”

Before the commencement of the crop, Minister Mustapha had predicted that it was going to be one of the biggest ever in Guyana.

Decomposed body of UG student found at Belle Vue

T

he partly decomposed body of a male who was later identified as University of Guyana student Joel Skeete was on Monday discovered lying face down among the rocks along the western bank of the Demerara River in the vicinity of Belle Vue, West Bank Demerara (WBD).

Skeete, 19, had disappeared after leaving a barbershop at the Demerara Harbour Bridge Mall about six days ago.

On the day of his disappearance, his mother, Lorenza Griffith, had reported that her son was last seen about 19:00h wearing a dark red jersey and a pair of dark grey jeans.

Several persons around the area where the body was discovered were questioned, but no useful information was received.

Dead: Joel Skeete

The body was taken to the Ezekiel Funeral Home to await a post-mortem.

Investigations are continuing.

NEWS

17

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

113 die after cyclone hits Indonesia and East Timor

F

loods and landslides triggered by tropical cyclone Seroja in a cluster of islands in southeast Indonesia and East Timor have killed 113 people, with many still unaccounted for and thousands displaced, officials said on Monday.

At least 86 deaths were reported on several islands in Indonesia’s West and East Nusa Tenggara provinces, while 71 others were missing, after the cyclone brought flash floods, landslides and strong winds amid heavy rain over the weekend, di-

saster agency BNPB said.

In East Timor, which shares the Timor island with Indonesia, at least 27 people were killed by landslides, flash floods and a falling tree, while 7000 were displaced, its Government said.

On Lembata island, authorities feared bodies had been washed away.

“We are using rubber boats to find bodies at sea. In several villages, flash floods hit while people were sleeping,” Thomas Ola Langoday, Deputy Head of Lembata district government, told Reuters by phone.

About 30, 000 people have been affected by floods in Indonesia

About 30, 000 people have been affected by floods in Indonesia, some already taking shelter in evacuation centres, but rescue operations have been made difficult after five bridges collapsed and falling trees blocked some roads, BNPB spokesman Raditya Jati said.

A continuing storm had also halted evacuations in some places, local authorities said.

Hundreds of houses and other structures such as a solar power plant were damaged, BNPB said. Ships and

motor boats sank as the cyclone set off waves as high as six metres.

Powerful currents continued to flow through villages in the Malaka district on Timor island on Monday, even though the rain had stopped.

President Joko Widodo offered his condolences and ordered speedy disaster relief efforts.

The Seroja cyclone hit the Savu sea southwest of Timor island in the early hours of Monday, Indonesia’s weather agency said. (Excerpt from Reuters)

George Floyd’s death: Minneapolis Police COVID-19, other disasters wake-up call for systemic Caribbean approach to risk Chief says Chauvin violated policy

T

he Police Chief of Minneapolis has testified that ex-officer Derek Chauvin violated the agency's policy on force during the arrest of George Floyd.

Chief Medaria Arradondo said the way Chauvin restrained Floyd was not in line with training and "certainly not part of our ethics and our values".

The Chief had fired Chauvin and the three other officers involved days after Floyd's death last May. Chauvin is on trial for murder and has denied the

Chief Medaria Arradondo

charges against him.

Footage of Chauvin kneeling on Floyd's neck for more than nine minutes last year sparked global protests against racism.

Monday marks the sixth

day in Chauvin's trial, which is expected to last for at least one month.

Prosecutors, who are seeking to prove that Chauvin's actions violated his training, focused their questions on departmental guidelines and strategies taught to help officers de-escalate situations.

Arradondo told the court Floyd should not have been restrained in the manner used by the officers after he stopped resisting, "and certainly once he was in distress". (Excerpt from BBC News)

Jordan’s Prince Hamzah signs letter declaring loyalty to King

J

ordan’s estranged Prince Hamzah has signed a letter in which he has promised to abide by the traditions and approaches of the ruling Hashemite monarch family, the royal court said in a statement, as a rift that saw the Prince placed under house arrest appeared to ease.

“I place myself in the hands of his majesty the king,” the letter read, according to the Jordanian royal court on Monday.

“I will remain committed to the Constitution of the dear Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, and I will always be of help and support to his majesty the king and his crown prince.”

Prince Hamzah, the former Crown Prince, signed the letter after he met with Prince Hassan, the king’s uncle, and other Princes on Monday, the royal court said.

“The interests of the homeland must remain above every consideration.

We must all stand behind the king in his efforts to protect Jordan and its national interests,” the letter said.

The signed letter came after King Abdullah II agreed to enter mediation to heal a rift within the royal family, the palace said.

The Government has accused Prince Hamzah of involvement in a seditious conspiracy to “destabilise the kingdom’s security”, and

detained him along with at least 16 other people, including Bassem Awadallah, a former Cabinet Minister and one-time Head of the royal court.

The palace said Abdullah asked his paternal uncle, Prince Hassan, to “handle the question of Prince Hamzah within the framework of the Hashemite (ruling) family”.

On Sunday, Jordanian authorities said they had foiled the “malicious plot” by Prince Hamzah with foreign help. Hamzah has denied any role and says he is being targeted for speaking out against corruption and poor governance. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

T

he large-scale and long-lasting effects of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), combined with the possible impact of other hazards and recent events, threaten to damage or destroy vital infrastructure and the life-support systems of large parts of societies and economies.

That is why it is urgently necessary to move towards a systemic approach to disaster risk, primarily in the Caribbean, which is highly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, with economies dependent on foreign tourism and heavy debt burdens. So indicates a recent report, which was produced by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) and the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR).

The report entitled “The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic: an opportunity for a systemic approach to disaster risk for the Caribbean” emphasises that disaster risk is systemic and generates complex interactions between human, social, political and economic systems on the one hand, and natural systems on the other. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrates the extent to which a single hazard has the potential to trigger a series of cascading effects, impacting the life-support systems of societies and economies worldwide.

UN Secretary General Special Representative for Disaster Risk Reduction, Mami Mizutori

“This crisis underscores the need for disaster risk management to be incorporated into national planning, in order to guarantee a comprehensive response to disasters. At the global and regional levels, it is crucial that those of us who work in international organisations seek ways to promote and foster a new development model and a global framework that would enable us to provide a coordinated and adequate response to the next pandemic, ECLAC Executive Secretary Alicia Bárcena affirmed.

Meanwhile, UN Secretary General Special Representative for Disaster Risk Reduction, Mami Mizutori, indicated that “now is the time for multi-stakeholder dialogue and action to understand and manage systemic risk”. Progress towards

risk-informed sustainable development will only be accelerated by incorporating systems-based approaches into the design of policies and investments across all sectors and regions, and at all levels.”

The document indicates that the duration of COVID-19 increases the likelihood that the risk of disasters originating from other threats occurs simultaneously, or that post-disaster reconstruction be delayed.

The effects and impacts of the Eta and Iota Hurricanes in Honduras, Guatemala and Nicaragua – combined with those of COVID-19 – are proof of this, as is the delay prompted by the pandemic in reconstruction efforts after the disaster caused by Hurricane Dorian in The Bahamas.

It specifies that the selection of the Caribbean to exemplify the potential effects of systemic disaster risk is no coincidence. “This region was chosen because it is highly vulnerable to hydrometeorological or extreme climate phenomena, it has more than 90 per cent of the population living in coastal areas and its economies are dependent on foreign tourism and are highly indebted,” the report emphasises, adding that the economic and social effects of COVID-19 have been devastating for the Caribbean and will last for several years.

(Excerpt from ECLAC)

Ghanaian authorities investigate after 60 dead dolphins appear

T

he authorities in Ghana are trying to find out what has caused more than 60 dead dolphins to wash up on several beaches.

Local fishermen say the phenomenon is extremely rare.

Officials are warning against eating the dolphins and various other fish species that have also washed up, as it not yet clear what caused their deaths.

Ghana’s Fisheries

Commission said samples have been taken for laboratory analysis.

Dozens of dolphins went missing from Axim beach in the west of the country. It is suspected they were taken away by people who intend to sell their meat, Ghanaian news site Graphic Online reported.

“Initial observation... showed no wound/lesions on their bodies... The colour of the sea and temperature are normal,” the Executive

Some were filmed here on Axim beach and reportedly later disappeared

Director of the Fisheries Commission, Michael

Arthur-Dadzie, is quoted by AFP news agency as saying.

Investigations have taken place over the last year after similar mass dolphin deaths along other parts of the African coast.

In February 111 dolphins were found dead off the coast of Mozambique.

The dolphins may have got caught at low tide after Cyclone Guambe, a preliminary investigation by Mozambique’s Agriculture Ministry suggests.

Last year, 52 dead dolphins were found on the

coast of the Indian Ocean island of Mauritius.

An investigation by Mauritius’s Fisheries Ministry put the main cause of death down to a phenomenon known as barotrauma.

This results from an abrupt change in pressure which can be caused by various things including military sonar, an underwater earthquake, explosives or a volcanic eruption. (Excerpt from BBC News)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021

Regional

Climate change shrinks marine COVID case causes closure life richness near equator – study of Chaguanas market

D

uring some summers, as the Caribbean water temperatures climb, the luminous coral colonies of gold, green and blue that ring the island nation of Cuba give way to patches of skeletal white.

The technicolour streaks of darting tropical fish flash less frequently. The rasping sounds of lobsters go quiet.

While Cuba’s marine life has suffered from overfishing and pollution, there is mounting evidence that the warming of waters owing to climate change may be taking a large toll as well – both off the island’s coast and globally.

Research published Monday finds that the total number of open-water species declined by about half in the 40 years up to 2010 in tropical marine zones worldwide. During that time, sea surface temperatures in the tropics rose nearly 0.2 degree Celsius.

“Climate change is already impacting marine species diversity distribution,” with changes be-

C

A view of a coral colony on the coast of Havana, Cuba, March 28, 2021

ing more dramatic in the Northern Hemisphere where waters have warmed faster, said study co-author Chhaya Chaudhary, a biogeographer at Goethe University.

While numerous factors like overfishing have impacted tropical species, the study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found a strong correlation between species decline and rising temperature.

Fish species diversity tended to either plateau or decline at or above 20C (68

Fahrenheit), the researchers found.

While past studies have shown that ocean warming is driving some species to migrate to cooler waters, the new study attempts to gauge that impact more broadly -- analysing data on 48,661 marine species including fish, mollusks, birds and corals since 1955.

The dataset is a representative sample of 20 per cent of all named open-water and seabed-dwelling marine species – like corals and sponges, researchers said. (Excerpt from Reuters)

even to migrate. But there are some who are going in to scam people or to actually be a money mule, to collect money from people that they don't know, to bring back down to Jamaica for the scammers,” Dominick Riley, special agent postal inspector at the USPIS, said last Wednesday during Consular Conversations, a weekly talk series by the US Embassy in Jamaica.

Those who create these scams and participate in them, Riley added, can either be indicted in Jamaica, or extradited to the US for mail and wire fraud.

“Those persons who are engaged in these illegal ac-

tivities, they can be charged both here in Jamaica and in the US. Our primary goal here at the US Embassy is to extradite persons back to the United States, but we do work the Jamaican law enforcement, the FID (Financial Investigations Department), MOCA (Major Organised Crime and AntiCorruption Agency) and the JCF (Jamaica Constabulary Force) to charge persons under POCA, which is the Proceeds of Crime Act. With the USPIS and the consular section, we work to stop people who are using the visa system in a nefarious way,” he said. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Jamaicans scamming in US could face 20 years in prison

T

he United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) has warned that any Jamaican who is found to be exploiting the visa system to undertake fraudulent activities in the US, like scamming, can face up to 20 years in prison.

The USPIS said while the majority of Jamaicans who enter the country operate legally, there are a few with criminal intentions.

“The majority of Jamaicans who are going to the US, they are going in a legitimate way. They are going for tourist reasons or to shop or maybe to go to school or to work. Maybe

Peruvian presidential candidate gets COVID-19

O

ne of the top candidates for the presidency in Peru, George Forsyth, has tested positive for COVID-19 a week before the election.

The 38-year-old former goalkeeper for Peru's national football team says he had been feeling "a little poorly" for four days and that doctors have told him his right lung had been affected by the virus.

Forsyth is one of 18 candidates running for the presidency and the fourth to contract COVID-19.

Peru has seen a spike in deaths in recent days, recording a new record high of daily fatalities on Saturday,

George Forsyth is one of 18 candidates running for the presidency and the fourth to contract COVID-19

when 294 people died.

Unlike its neighbour Chile, which has postponed elections scheduled for next

weekend, Peru will go ahead with the general election as planned on April 11. (BBC News)

haguanas Mayor Faaiq Mohammed is hopeful that the Chaguanas Market would re-open this week.

The market was closed on Sunday based on advice from the office of the County Medical Officer Health (CMOH) that a vendor was tested positive for the COVID-19 virus.

Mohammed told Guardian Media that the Borough Corporation planned to sanitise the facility on Sunday.

He said the vendor had not been at the market for more than seven days because the affected person was in quarantine.

Mohammed said despite this he was not too worried that any massive outbreak

of COVID-19 would take place in Chaguanas.

He said the CMOH was doing contact tracing to determine primary and secondary contacts and added that the re-opening of the facility depends on how fast the contact tracing process could be undertaken.

Mohammed said he was unable to say what type of goods the vendor sold or what area the affected ven-

dors operated at.

“We are taking all necessary health and safety precautions and remain guided by the medical experts to prevent the spread of this deadly virus.

“I urge everyone to continue to adhere to the necessary precautions and to act responsibly in light of the spike in COVID-19 cases.”(Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Funeral held for Salvadoran woman killed in Mexico Police custody

A

Salvadoran woman who died at the hands of Mexican Police has been buried in the southwest of El Salvador, in the presence of family and close friends.

About 50 of Victoria Esperanza Salazar’s friends and relatives, many wearing floral arrangements, walked through the La Generosa cemetery in colonial Sonsonate, 65 kilometres (40 miles) west of the capital, San Salvador, to her final resting place on Sunday.

“We want justice! We hope this is resolved because everyone saw how my sister was murdered,” Carlos

Salazar, the victim’s brother, told reporters during the funeral. “The Police did not act right,” he added.

The 36-year-old victim, who had lived in Mexico for five years, died on March 27 after being subdued by Police Officers in Tulum, a Caribbean resort.

In a video of the incident, Salazar could be heard screaming as a female officer puts a knee to her back while she was handcuffed, barefoot and face down on the ground.

Three male Police Officers were standing by.

The video then cuts to the officers carrying Salazar’s limp body still handcuffed into the back of a Police pick-

up truck.

Her death ignited protests in Tulum and in Mexico City, as well as in San Salvador.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said Salazar had been subject to “brutal treatment and murdered” after her detention, while El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele called for those responsible to face justice.

On Saturday, the attorney general’s office of the Mexican state of Quintana Roo charged the one female and three male Police Officers who had detained Salazar with femicide.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Earthquakes recorded at La Soufrière Volcano

A

new swarm of Volcano-Tectonic (VT) earthquakes began at La Soufrière Volcano early Monday morning, and while residents of surrounding communities are encouraged to be prepared to evacuate at short notice, no such order has been given.

The National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) in a bulletin issued at 11:17h on Monday, April 5, said the new swarm of VT earthquakes began at 6:38h.

“The numbers and magnitudes of these earthquakes increased until about 8:30 am, after which they continued at a fairly steady rate.

“This swarm of VolcanoTectonic earthquakes have been located at a depth around 6 km below the summit of La Soufrière. This is slightly deeper than the Volcano-Tectonic earthquake activities recorded between the 22nd and 25th of March 2021, which were located at depths from 3 to 5 km below the summit.

The National Emergency Management Organisation in St Vincent said earthquakes were being recorded at La Soufrière Volcano on April 5, 2021 (NEMO)

“The largest VolcanoTectonic earthquake occurred at 9:20 am with a magnitude of 3.5 and was felt by residents living close to the volcano. Other VT earthquakes may have also been felt,” the bulletin from NEMO said.

“The alert level remains at Orange. The National Emergency Management Organisation is reminding

the public that no evacuation order or notice has been issued.

“The National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) is also encouraging residents, especially persons living in communities close to the volcano to be prepared in the event that it becomes necessary to evacuate at short notice.” (Searchlight Newspaper)

guyanatimesgy.com

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021

19

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS Oil down 5% as rising OPEC+, Iranian output weighs

O

il fell more than US$3 a barrel on Monday as rising supply from OPEC+ and higher Iranian output countered signs of a strong economic rebound in the United States.

The Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies, known as OPEC+, agreed on Thursday to monthly production hikes from May to July. OPEC member Iran, exempt from making voluntary cuts, is also boosting supply.

“The timing was not good,” said Bob Yawger, director of energy futures at Mizuho Securities. “It seemed like OPEC+ was going to roll the deal, but they didn’t and now it looks like they’re going to have to pay at least in the short term.”

Brent crude for June fell US$3.08, or 4.8 per cent, to US$61.78 a barrel by 1:42 pm EDT (1742 GMT). US West Texas Intermediate crude for May dropped US$3.21, or 5.2 per cent, to US$58.24.

In another development that could eventually boost supply, investors are focused on indirect talks between Iran and the United States as part of negotiations to revive the 2015 nuclear deal.

“There is an assumption that we’re going to see this flood of Iranian oil in the market,” said Phil Flynn, senior analyst at Price Futures Group in Chicago. “I think this is overstated a little bit.”

Eurasia analyst Henry Rome said he expected US sanctions, including restrictions on Iranian oil sales, to be lifted only after these talks are completed and Iran returns to compliance.

Iran has already boosted exports to China despite the sanctions.

Oil has recovered from historic lows last year with the support of record OPEC+ cuts, most of which will remain after July. Demand is expected to recover further in the second half.

While a slow vaccine rollout and return to lockdown in parts of Europe have weighed, figures on Friday showed the US economy created the most jobs in seven months in March.

Still, tightening lockdowns in France and a spike of cases in India have darkened the outlook for a global economic rebound to boost oil demand. (Excerpt from Reuters)

More than 1800 prisoners escape in Nigeria

M

ore than 1800 inmates have escaped from a prison in Nigeria after it was attacked by gunmen, officials say.

The attackers reportedly entered the prison yard in the south-eastern town of Owerri by using explosives to blast the administrative block.

Six prisoners have reportedly returned, while 35 refused to escape.

Police have accused the banned separatist group, the Indigenous People of Biafra, of carrying out the attack. It has reportedly denied involvement.

The Nigerian Correctional Service has confirmed that 1844 inmates escaped from the jail in Imo state.

Heavily armed men stormed the Owerri Custodial Centre in the early hours of Monday, after arriving in pickup trucks and buses, the service said.

A Police spokesperson said the attackers carried rocket-propelled grenades, machine guns, explosives and rifles.

President Muhammadu Buhari called the attack an "act of terrorism" carried out by "anarchists". He called

I

sraeli prosecutors accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of treating favours as “currency” on Monday at the opening of a corruption trial which, along with an inconclusive election, has clouded his prospects of remaining in office.

Wearing a black mask and dark suit, Netanyahu was seated in the Jerusalem District Court following an order from Judges to appear in court to face charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust.

Netanyahu, who denies all wrongdoing in the three cases against him, conferred quietly with lawyers as his supporters and critics held raucous demonstrations outside. He left before the first witness was called to testify.

Israel’s longest-serving Prime Minister misused “the great governmental power entrusted to him, among other things, to demand and derive improper benefits from owners of key media in Israel in order to advance his personal affairs – including when he faced

upon security forces to capture the attackers and the escaped prisoners.

A spokesman for the Indigenous People of Biafra separatist movement told the AFP news agency that accusations it was behind Monday's attack were "lies".

Imo state has long been a breeding ground for separatist groups, while

relations between the central government and indigenous Igbo population are strained.

Since January several Police Stations and vehicles across south-eastern Nigeria have been attacked and large amounts of ammunition stolen. No-one has claimed responsibility for the attacks. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Putin signs law that could keep him in Kremlin until 2036

R

ussian President Vladimir Putin has signed a law that could keep him in office in the Kremlin until 2036, the Government said on Monday.

The legislation allows him to run for two more six-year terms once his current stint ends in 2024.

It follows changes to the Constitution last year.

Those changes were backed in a public vote last summer and could allow

Israel: PM Netanyahu accused of “illegitimate use” of power

A protester with a mask depicting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wears a sign with the word “Liar” in Hebrew [Ronen Zvulun/Reuters]

Police have accused the banned separatist group, the Indigenous People of Biafra, of carrying out the attack

his desire to be re-elected”, prosecutor Liat Ben Ari said during opening arguments.

“The relationship between Netanyahu and the defendants became currency, something that could be traded,” she said. “The currency could distort a public servant’s judgement.”

The first case involves Netanyahu allegedly receiving gifts worth hundreds of thousands of dollars from wealthy friends, including Hollywood film producer Arnon Milchan and Australian billionaire James Packer. In the second case, Netanyahu is accused of trying to orchestrate positive coverage in a main Israeli newspaper in exchange for curbing distribution of a free pro-Netanyahu tabloid.

The third, dubbed Case 4000, which will be the focus of Monday’s first witness testimony, alleges that Netanyahu backed legislation worth hundreds of millions of dollars to the owner of Israeli telecom giant Bezeq in return for positive coverage on its news site Walla. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Putin, 68, to potentially remain in power until the age of 83. He is currently serving his second consecutive term as President and his fourth in total.

The reform, which critics cast as a constitutional coup, was packaged with

an array of other amendments that were expected to garner popular support, such as one bolstering pension protections.

The law signed by Putin limits any future President to two terms in office, but resets his term count.

It prevents anyone who has held foreign citizenship from running for the Kremlin.

The legislation was passed in the Lower and Upper Houses of Parliament last month.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

who have received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine, those having received one dose of the vaccine at least 14 days before performing the pilgrimage, or a person who has recovered from the virus, the Ministry said.

The Ministry also said it would increase the operational capacity of the holy mosque in adherence with COVID-19 measures and restrictions.

It was also not clear whether the policy, which

comes amid an uptick in coronavirus infections in Saudi Arabia, would be extended to the annual Hajj pilgrimage later this year.

Saudi Arabia has reported more than 393,000 coronavirus infections and over 6700 deaths from the virus.

The kingdom’s Health Ministry said it has administered more than five million coronavirus vaccines, in a country with a population of over 34 million. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Saudi Arabia to allow only “immunised” pilgrims to Mecca

S

audi authorities said Monday that only people immunised against COVID-19 will be allowed to perform the year-round Umrah pilgrimage, starting from the holy month of Ramadan.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah said in a statement that only “immunised people” will be granted permits to perform Umrah as well as prayers in the Grand Mosque in the holy city of Mecca.

These include individuals

Mozambique town Palma “retaken” from militant Islamists

M

ozambique’s military said it has regained full control of the coastal town of Palma, more than a week after it was raided by militant Islamists.

A “significant” number of militants were killed in the counter-offensive, an army spokesman said.

State radio reported that residents who had fled were starting to return - some to homes that were looted.

Dozens of civilians were killed and at least 11,000 displaced after the militants invaded Palma on March 24.

A South African and British national were among

those killed in what was one of the biggest attacks by the militants in northern Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado province since they launched an insurgency in the region in 2017.

Communication with the town, which has a population of about 75,000, remains cut.

The militants, known locally as al-Shabab, have pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (IS) group.

Their assault on Palma forced energy giant Total to suspend its multi-billion dollar natural gas project in Afungi, a short distance from the town.

Total withdrew its staff

on Friday, while the United Nations suspended flights to evacuate civilians because of security concerns.

Army spokesman Brigadier Chongo Vidigal said the gas plant was secure, and Palma was now “safe”.

“The airfield area was the only one we needed to clear and we did that [on Sunday]. It’s completely safe,” Brig Vidigal was quoted by AFP news agency as saying.

The governor of Cabo Delgado, Valgy Tauabo, visited Palma on Sunday, and promised to help people rebuild their lives. (Excerpt from BBC News)

20

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021

guyanatimesgy.com

ARCHIE

Call on those you trust for input. Running your (March 21ideas by people who offer April 19) encouragement along with common sense will help you navigate your way through any pitfalls you encounter.

ARIES

Keep your thoughts to yourself until you have a (April 20clear picture of how you want May 20) to proceed. A change made in haste will be met with obstacles. Thorough research will prevent negative results.

TAURUS

DILBERT

Don’t waste time. Size GEMINI up your situation and make (May 21- things happen. A chance to June 20) get ahead is coming, and preparation will help build the confidence you need to dazzle the powers-that-be.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

Concentrate on what you need to do to succeed. Refuse to let personal matters interfere with your professional responsibilities. Focus on contracts, money and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Press people for answers.

Use your communication skills to your advantage. Get the lowdown, and make decisions based on the facts you receive.

A partnership that can help you advance looks promising.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Take a virtual class or set up an online interview. Take action if you want to bring about change. Don’t make excuses when it’s up to you to make things happen. Don’t play the blame game.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Take care of responsibilities, and free up time to enjoy with a loved one. Don’t make unnecessary purchases. Fitness and physical improvements are favored.

SCORPIO

Put everything in place before you leap into action.

Understanding what’s possible will help you avoid a costly mistake. An innovative plan will require a strict budget.

PEANUTS

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SUDOKU

An emotional matter will SAGITTARIUS cause you to overreact if you (Nov. 23aren’t careful. Size up whatDec. 21) ever situation you face, and put a strategy in place that will eliminate outside interference.

You’ll face opposition if CAPRICORN you initiate a change with(Dec. 22out going through the proper Jan. 19)

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

channels. Look for a positive way to get others on board, and you’ll get the support and assistance you need.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

Focus on what you can do to add to your security. A moneymaking opportunity looks promising. Don’t miss out because you’ve taken on responsibilities that don’t belong to you.

Keep your plans secret, PISCES and you’ll avoid a disagree(Feb. 20- ment. Do something enerMarch 20) getic if you feel stressed or anxious. Don’t make a premature move in an emotional situation. Time is on your side.

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021

21

Quinton de Kock unlikely to face any sanction for Fakhar Zaman dismissal

Q

Clippers rout short-handed Lakers; Nets and 76ers both lose T

he Los Angeles Clippers made light work of their short-handed neighbours, crushing defending champions the Los Angeles Lakers 104-86.

Kawhi Leonard (19 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists) fell just short of a triple-double as the Clippers snapped a two-game skid in the NBA on Sunday.

Marcus Morris posted 22 points and Paul George added 16 for the Clippers, who claimed bragging rights in Los Angeles, where superstar Lakers duo LeBron James and Anthony Davis remain sidelined.

Former Clippers star Montrezl Harrell led the Lakers with 19 points – Frank Vogel’s team have dropped six of nine games.

Vucevic and LaVine sink Nets, Valanciunas’ Grizzlies roar against 76ers

The Chicago Bulls ended a six-game losing streak after upstaging the Brooklyn Nets 115-107. Recruit Nikola Vucevic (22 points and 13 rebounds) and Zach LaVine (25 points) fuelled the Bulls, while Tomas Satoransky registered a season-high 19 points and 11 assists.

The Nets – playing without James Harden and Kevin Durant – were led

by Kyrie Irving’s double-double of 24 points and 15 assists.

Jonas Valanciunas guided the Memphis Grizzlies to a surprise 116-100 win over the Philadelphia 76ers.

Valanciunas had 16 points and 12 rebounds in a career-high tying 10th con-

secutive double-double – his longest streak ever within a single season.

Memphis’ 45 points in the third quarter marked the most in a single period in a road game in franchise history. Tobias Harris put up 21 points in the absence of star 76ers teammate Joel Embiid, who was rested after returning from a 10-game injury lay-off on Saturday.

It was a milestone result for Atlanta Hawks Head Coach Nate McMillan, who moved up to 20th on the all-time coaching wins (673) list after his team topped the Golden State Warriors 117-111. Double-doubles from Clint Capela (24 points and 18 rebounds) and Danilo Gallinari (25 points and 10 rebounds) inspired the Hawks. The Warriors lost despite Stephen Curry’s gamehigh 37 points, and double-doubles from Kelly Oubre Jr (20 points and 11 rebounds) and Draymond Green (11 points and 11 assists).

Simmons and Curry headline Philly woes

It was a frustrating game for the 76ers, who were 41.6 per cent from the field and 23.5 from three-point territory. Ben Simmons endured a forgettable outing, the AllStar finishing two-of-six shooting for seven points in 26 minutes. Seth Curry was one-of-six shooting, while he made just one of five attempts from threepoint range for three points. Fellow starters Danny Green (six points on two-of-seven shooting) and Mike Scott (nine points on three-of-10

shooting) all struggled.

PJ Washington made one of six shots from the field – nailing just one of his three efforts from beyond the arc – as he finished with three points in the Charlotte Hornets’ 116-86 defeat away to the Boston Celtics.

The Houston Rockets went down 122-115 to the New Orleans Pelicans, with Avery Bradley ending the game with twofor-nine shooting and five points in 26 minutes.

A championship winner with the Lakers, Rajon Rondo made his Clippers debut. But the veteran did not have the greatest game. Rondo made one of three field goals and committed four turnovers in 13 minutes.

The Joker does it all

Nikola Jokic showcased his Most Valuable Player (MVP) credentials and playmaking abilities with another impressive performance. He recorded 17 points and 16 assists to lead the Denver Nuggets to a 119-109 win over the lowly Orlando Magic.

Sunday’s results

Chicago Bulls 115-107 Brooklyn Nets Los Angeles Clippers 104-86 Los Angeles Lakers Boston Celtics 116-86 Charlotte Hornets Memphis Grizzlies 116-100 Philadelphia 76ers Atlanta Hawks 117-111 Golden State Warriors New Orleans Pelicans 122-115 Houston Rockets Denver Nuggets 119-109 Orlando Magic (Sportsmax)

uinton de Kock did not intend to deceive Fakhar Zaman when the batsman was run out in the second One-Day International (ODI) between Pakistan and South Africa, and is not in breach of Law 41.5.1 on fake fielding.

That is the conclusion match officials are believed to have come to after reviewing footage of Sunday’s match, in which Zaman was dismissed on 193 in the final over, with Pakistan 30 runs away from victory.

At the time, Zaman was pushing for a second run to keep strike and de Kock gestured towards the bowler’s end, but a direct hit from Aiden Markram at long-off caught Zaman short of his ground at the striker’s end.

ESPNcricinfo understands that in a post-match meeting, which officials regularly have to discuss the game, match officials re-looked at the dismissal and on studying all frames, were happy that de Kock called “bowler’s end” even before the first run was complete. Although the law states that “it is unfair for any

Quinton de Kock is congratulated by his team-mates after the Fakhar Zaman run-out

fielder wilfully to attempt, by word or action, to distract, deceive or obstruct either batsman after the striker has received the ball”, de Kock’s actions were not deemed to have been a trick, with officials satisfied that he was indicating for the throw to go to the bowler’s end even as it came in at his end. Tabraiz Shamsi tweeted that de Kock was calling for a fielder to back up the throw at the non-striker’s end.

In the immediate aftermath of the game, Zaman agreed with that assessment and said it was his “own fault” that he slowed down in completing

the second run, because he looked back to see whether his partner, Haris Rauf, was safe. South Africa’s Captain, Temba Bavuma called de Kock’s actions “clever” and said, “I don’t think he broke the rules in any kind of way.”

Pakistan management is believed to have spoken to Andy Pycroft immediately after the incident, and drew his attention to the relevant law.

That, it is believed, was not an official complaint as much as a reminder about the law and there appears to be an acceptance that the law is there for match officials to interpret and implement. (ESPNcricinfo)

Valencia: Alleged racist comment sees team leave pitch

V

alencia walked off the pitch during Sunday’s 2-1 La Liga defeat at Cadiz after an alleged racist comment, before later returning to complete the match.

Mouctar Diakhaby reacted furiously after a first-half clash with Cadiz’s Juan Cala and spoke with the referee.

Valencia’s players left the pitch in protest and the club said Diakhaby, 24, “received a racial insult”.

He later asked his teammates to return and they resumed the game, but without Diakhaby, who was substituted.

Valencia defender Jose Gaya said after the game that the team either had to resume playing or risk a points deduction.

“Diakhaby told us he heard a racist insult, so we all went off the pitch,” Gaya told Spanish network Movistar.

“We were told that we had to play, because if we didn’t, they would take the three points off us and maybe we’d be docked more points.

“Diakhaby asked us to play on. We wouldn’t have done so if he hadn’t done so. He said he wasn’t in the right state of mind to keep playing. He is devastated.”

The game was 1-1 at the

time, with Kevin Gameiro having equalised after Spanish defender Cala opened the scoring for Cadiz.

Cala, 31, was also substituted at half-time, before Marcos Mauro’s 88th-minute goal gave Cadiz a 2-1 victory.

“We offer our complete backing to Mouctar Diakhaby,” Valencia said of the decision to return to the pitch.

“The team have held a meeting and decided to continue the game, in order to fight for the honour of the club, but denounce racism of any kind.”

Gaya said he had heard the comment Cala made to Diakhaby.

He added: “It was a very ugly insult which I won’t repeat. We haven’t been able to speak with Cala, because he was the last player to leave the pitch. I’m certain that he said something. It was a very strange game.”

Cadiz said they were “against any manifestation of racism or xenophobia”, regardless of who the perpetrator was and that “they work hard to help eradicate” discrimination.

“Anyone guilty of such an offence, whether or not they belong to our team, must be punished,” Cadiz said in a statement.

“We have complete confidence in the integrity of our squad members, who are staunch supporters of the fight against racism.”

While Cala was not mentioned by name in the club statement, Cadiz boss Alvaro Cervera said the defender “insists he did not insult” Diakhaby.

“Cala says that at no point did he insult the opposition player,” Cervera told the club website.

“It’s the first time something like this has happened to us and we did not know how to react. There was a lot of confusion.

“We’re a faithful, honest team and we don’t do this kind of stuff. That’s what I can say.”

On Monday, the Spanish league said it “condemns racism in all shapes and forms” and added that it had been an active party in tackling hate crimes in the country.

“We take any allegation of racism seriously and will work with the clubs and refereeing establishment to do whatever is necessary to protect the values of equality and respect that prevail in our Spanish professional football competition,” the statement from La Liga continued. (BBC Sport)

22 Devon Ramnauth Youth League recognises late Coach Courtney Gonsalves G

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021

iven his unwavering coaching services to Essequibo’s cricket for over two decades, the late Courtney Gonsalves was recognised by the recent inaugural Devon Ramnauth Youth League Development Under-19 Tournament with the championship trophy bearing his name.

Ramnauth, a former national youth player, on Sunday last handed over a plaque also to Gonsalves’s family, who currently resides in Canada, at a simple presentation.

According to Ramnauth, Gonsalves was indeed a household name in Guyana and his commitment to help

the youths with their development is duly recognised.

Gonsalves passed away at the age of 62 in Canada in 2013, but before his migration in 2001, Gonsalves had done a tremendous job in Essequibo and, by extension, Guyana.

Gonsalves had the distinction of representing Guyana at the regional First-Class level too while his son Ian Gonsalves played for Guyana at the youth level.

“I want to take the opportunity to recognize the late Gonsalves’ contributions to Essequibo’s cricket, because I recently ran off the youth tournament and it is

The late Courtney Gonsalves

only fitting that Gonsalves must be remembered for his outstanding coaching job in the county; he was a well-re-

spected coach and his love and passion for the coaching job and cricket resonated well,” Ramnauth noted.

At the presentation, Ramnauth, who has featured for Essequibo at various levels in inter-county cricket tournaments, stated that he and his family were still saddened by Gonsalves’ death and they wanted to do these tangible things to remember him in every aspect of life.

“As a youth player for Essequibo I always have the burning desire to see the continued development of cricket; at the just-concluded youth tournament, I saw a great number of tal-

Former Golden Jaguars Captain Chris Nurse appointed to MLS Next Equity Action Committee

W

eston FC is proud to announce that MLS Next Coach Chris Nurse has been appointed to the newly-created MLS Next Equity Action Committee, a new diversity, equity and inclusion initiative that advocates for social equality in the sport of soccer.

Coach Nurse is one of nine members on the committee, which will guide MLS Next to facilitate positive changes for a more aware, equitable, just and responsible soccer community. Weston FC is committed to applying the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion to all of its programming and initiatives will be announced soon.

“Being on the Equity Action Committee allows me to influence positive change and bring more awareness and light to this area,” Nurse said.

“It is an area that is often neglected and not given the attention it requires to address and act upon these issues in both society and culture. Soccer in its purest

Weston FC Coach Chris Nurse

form is extremely diverse and we need to ensure everyone genuinely feels represented and supported. It is an initiative very close to my heart. I was once that young boy who had dreams of playing professionally and I was able to attain that dream and compete not just as a professional but as the captain of a national team at the highest level. There were many things that I had to endure on that journey that no human should ever have to tolerate, and my hope is to ensure the path for the next generation can be more admirable than it was for myself and many others.

“I was born in London, England, to a Jamaican

mother and Guyanese father and my career began just playing in the local park amongst friends. Racism was something we experienced daily growing up. In school, all through my soccer career, in the grocery store, just walking the street, driving your car you could be racially abused just for the colour of your skin. If it’s in society, it is in sport. It was just something we had to live with. A story no-one really wanted to hear and a story you never really wanted to tell. You just got on with it.

“Now, as the head coach of the U-16 MLS Next team at Weston FC, one of the highest levels of youth soccer

ented Under-19 cricketers and this is the exposure our young talented and promising players needed and I am sure my favourite coach Gonsalves will be smiling from heaven at this initiative now,” Ramnauth commented.

Ramnauth informed that his Youth League will continue to have the championship trophy honours in the memory of Gonsalves. The next tournament is billed for August.

Queenstown Under-19 emerged victorious in the first edition which comprised six teams.

Ramnauth has declared there would be an increase in teams in the next edition.

Chris Nurse in 2015

in the CONCACAF region, it is our responsibility as a role models, mentors, coaches, teachers and leaders to ensure these kids can feel safe, valued and protected from any unwarranted discrimination, harassment or racism.

“Change starts with a conversation, if we are able to open our hearts and our minds there is so much more potential to be unleashed in the game of soccer, and this can be achieved by empowering the next generation of athletes through equity, diversity, and equality.”

CLASSIFIED ADS SERVICES Solutions to All problems such as – Domestic, Job, Relationships such as :- Marriage , Love Relations. Removal of blockages and Bad Luck. Call for Appointment – 592 696 8222.

Address: Georgetown or Vreed-enHoop.

Master Sanjeev Hc Solve Problems – Love, Marriage, Relationships, Money, Business, Job, Generation, Crush, Bring back Ex-Lover, Blockages, Bad Luck, Jealous and more. Contact : 592 633-2394. Address : Campbellville, Georgetown.

TAXI SERVICE

GR Taxi

227-1982, 225-7878 219-5000, 227-2100 Wanted: Contract Cars Tel: 614-6202

VACANCY One (1) Security Guard. Male.

From 4pm to 7am in the morning.

Contact: Sookraj Jewellery: 223-6156/612-2125.

2237230-1

(Ext 55)

NOW!

Miller-Uibo stuns with world-leading 22.03 200m opener at Pure Athletics Spring Invitational

B

ahamian sprint queen Shaunae MillerUibo threw down the gauntlet to would-be challengers over the 200m on Sunday when she sped to a world-leading 22.03 run with a trailing wind of 1.5m/s at the Pure Athletics Spring Invitational in Clermont, Florida.

The time that was her fastest-ever wind-legal outdoor opener, eclipsed the previous best in the world this year of 22.17 set in Texas by Gabrielle Thomas on March 27 and would have sent shivers down the spines of potential 200m finalists

at this summer’s Olympic Games in Tokyo.

The extraordinary Bahamian was also more than a half-second faster than second-placed Quanera Haynes, who clocked 22.68.

Lynna Irby was third in 22.75.

The next fastest Caribbean athlete was Jamaica’s Natalliah Whyte who finished fourth in 23.28, a time slower than the 22.88 she ran in Miami on March 20.

In the men’s event, Trinidad and Tobago’s Jereem Richards, the 2019 Pan American Games silver

medallist, lost out on a second-place finish by 0.001s to the USA’s Josephus Lyles.

Both were given 20.37.

However, Lyles was given a time of 20.361 to Richards’ 20.362.

None of that mattered to Erriyon Knighton, who won the race in 20.31.

Trinidadian quarter-miler Machel Cedenio finished fifth in 20.84 while Antigua and Barbuda’s Cejhae Green was sixth in 20.86.

Meanwhile, Jamaica's Akeem Bloomfield, who opened with a 20.75s run in the 200m last month, ran 45.78 to finish second in

the 400m won by Matthew Hudson-Smith in 45.51.

Musa Isah was a distant third in 46.68.

In the 110-metre hurdles won by Nicholas Anderson in 13.49, Jamaica’s oft-injured

Andrew Riley was second in 13.60 while Wellington ZaZa was third in 13.74.

The Bahamas' Devynne Charlton won the women's sprint hurdles in a wind-aided 13.08. (Sportsmax)

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021

The term ‘opportunities’ needs to be clearly defined Says Jemima Holmes

F

irstly, it must be established that the ensuing concerns are in no way a jab at those internationally- based players, who were deemed good enough for the Golden Jaguars’ 22-member squad that was recently selected to commence Guyana’s World Cup 2022 campaign.

Having said that, there needs to be a clear definition of the term ‘opportunities’ by those making the crucial calls for the Golden Jaguars’ composition.

Yes, it was refreshing to see after quite a while, that the technical staff of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and Coaches had opted for a majority local squad. Goal-keepers Akel Clarke and Shawn Adonis; Defenders Jeremy Garrett and Nicolai Andrews; Midfielders Ryan Hackett, Job Caesar, Pernell Schultz and Daniel Wilson; and forwards Omari Glasgow, Nicholas Mc Arthur, Kelsey Benjamin and Trayon Bobb were the lucky ones, from an extensive local training camp, to make the cut.

While this group could be considered immensely talented, it seemed, in the face of our Caribbean opposition, this group of players were only good enough to warm the bench.

With the exception of Daniel Wilson and Trayon Bobb, who have been staples in this team before, and Goalkeeper Akel Clarke in the first game against Trinidad and Tobago, the remainder of the locally-based contingent only touched the pitch in the event of a substitution.

While the writer is in no position to say why this de-

cision was taken or to pronounce on the capabilities of those home-grown ballers, this practice is viewed as hypocritical for one reason, that was blasted time and time again.

The record would show, on numerous occasions, Head Coach Marcio Maximo emphasising on the need for local players to be given opportunities in order to better and develop the local programme and give them a chance to shine.

Why then would those same local players only be given a few minutes on the pitch in every game? What can they accomplish or learn in that time? Unless.

Unless, the term ‘opportunities’ is limited only to a plane ride to a foreign country.

On March 9, 2021, during a press engagement, Head Coach Maximo addressed the likelihood of local players in the national team, stating: “It's very important to understand the general concepts, because we still compete strongly. But also, with our young players inside the group, because no makes sense you have a national programme if you don't use our domestic players, including general group. That's why we are doing,” “We are very, we are very proud because we include a lot of younger players, players that show a good possibility to make part of the team, open new vision for them, open new hope in their career. And they're hoping that you do well.

“We are sure that if the players repeat what they do in the training, and the international players repeat

the design that wants to play a national team, I'm sure that you can do a good result like you doing unto now.

“Also, we have a lot of potential players here that if you don't give the chance to show it to me, to programme just outside the tournaments. Okay, I do programming here, but it's not too honest, you should give a chance for our youth to play a show themselves.

Give that opportunity.”

“Because reinforce the national programme we value to players because local players worth be part as well. Because it all makes sense to have the programme here five days per week if you don't use it now.

It's the lie. It's not real, real development. Real development you should use, use your players without afraid,” Then, on March 15, two days before the team’s departure from Guyana, he reiterated: “We maintain our balance, because in real development, you should include local players. You don’t have real development if you just bring international players, without using our local players, especially young players because they should feel they are part of the process.”

And, “We don’t lose the competitive level, but you also encourage players in Guyana to play, to produce more players. It’s like a cycle, when you have more players that come from here, our chance to compete in higher level will be great, it will be big.”

After all this talk about opportunities being afforded to local players in order to boost morale and local development, the starting

XI against Trinidad and Tobago read: Sam Cox (C), Trayon Bobb, Keanu Marsh-Browne, Matthew Briggs, Miguel Scarlett, Akel Clarke (G), Emery Welshman, Daniel Wilson, Kadell Daniel and Callum Harriott. Only three locals initially making it off the bench.

Understandably so, following a 4-0 loss to T&T, Akel Clarke was benched for the game against The Bahamas and a very familiar starting XI was picked.

Sam Cox (C), Kadell Daniel, Trayon Bobb, Callum Harriott, Keanu MarshBrowne, Matthew Briggs, Daniel Wilson, Miguel Scarlett, Kai McKenzie Lyle, Emery Welshman and Terrence Vancooten made the cut; again, only two locals.

When the game against T&T got down to business, Job Caesar, Pernell Schultz, Kelsey Benjamin and Omari Glasgow got the nod for substitutions in the second half, ranging from 56 to 76 minutes in.

In their second qualifying encounter, Omari Glasgow, Pernell Schultz, Job Caesar and Nicholai Andrews got the nod for substitutes, but only after the 70-minute mark.

In mentioning that Omari scored his first international goal, aged 17 years, just 5 minutes after coming onto the pitch, it must be questioned what more could these local players effect had they been given more time.

It’s no secret that Guyana’s second half against Trinidad and Tobago (with a balance of local and international players) was far better

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

23

Head Coach Marcio Maximo

than the first. Was it that Trinidad got sloppy? Or was the presence of our local players more striking against the twin-island opposition.

With time on the pitch being the first concern; the second is for those who never made it off the bench.

Jeremy Garrett has played football in the United States for the past two years, on scholarship, speaking to the quality of his game. Both Nicholas Mc Arthur and Ryan Hackett have secured international stints, Mc Arthur a scholarship in the United States and Hackett a club stint in Canada. If this group is good enough to make the mark for international eyes, why weren’t they good enough for a substitution? Even Kelsey Benjamin who came in as a substitute in the first game, rode the bench in the second. What changed Kelsey’s validity in a matter of days?

Mischievous as it may be, a thought persists; would these players be given opportunities to start had they been recruited from other countries?

Again, these questions are not to downplay Guyana’s internationally based group but rather to figure why the locally trained players were not given an equal opportunity; much like the Head Coach preached leading up to the games.

Does this mean that travelling and rubbing shoulders with the international counterparts is all it takes to develop the local

programme and players?

Or was Omari Glasgow’s lone goal for the local contingent, all the proof in the world that the opportunity was provided to the local players?

There will be many eyes glued to the upcoming team lists and playing XIs when Guyana take on St Kitts and Nevis and Puerto Rico.

Will we see another set of opportunistic substitutions? Or will the likes of Glasgow, who has proven his quality, be given an initial go at the goal. What can this group of 12 players return to Guyana and share with their clubmates about what they learnt ‘competing’ for the national team?

In essence, the only thing being asked of the decision makers, is clarity.

To say that our local players are not up to the standard where 5 or more of them can play a full 90 minutes or start and complete a half, would be acceptable.

But to purport the notion to the general public that they would be included, in the interest of developing our game locally, and then give them half-way chances is bogus.

Point to fact, the talk of presenting opportunities means nothing if our local players continue to ride the bench for 60 out of every 90 minutes. If these are the opportunities, it is certainly not the ones that the Guyanese football fans have hoped for.

Opportunities.

O p p o r t u n i t i e s .

Opportunities.

Rose Jr optimistic of team’s chances heading into Pre-Qualifiers …honoured to lead side once again our chances, we have a little bit of uyana’s everything, so I Head Coach know our chancJ u n i o r es are high! We Hercules over the just have to go weekend decided out there and on his final 12-man play as a team. roster for the FIBA When we look at Basketball World the internationCup 2023 Americas al experience Pre-Qualifiers in we have on our San Salvador, El side, it’s coming Salvador. together slowStanton Rose Jr ly; hopefully by was selected to lead the time we are the squad going ready to leave, forward, with his we’re where we Co-Captain, prowant to be." fessional basketThe team that Stanton Rose Jr will lead Rose Jr went ball player Delroy on to state that captaining these guys once James. he was extremely grateful again and I’m honoured by In an exclusive interview for his Co-Captain in the it. It is a good team and I with Guyana Times Sport, form of the iconic and exthink they did what they Rose Jr was grateful to be perienced James.

He notwere supposed to. I love the selected to lead the nationteam selected. In terms of ed that it was great to have al side. "It feels surreal to be him alongside him as he has

By Timothy Jaikarran

G

got the experience of playing lection, saying, "even if pro all over the world and as you disagree with the sesuch, team members could lectors or don’t like the learn much from each othteam, still show love and er. Rose Jr further went on pray for us because we to state that for the team to repping 592 and not ourtake the title he expects evselves and family! Love!" eryone to be a team playIn closing, when Rose er, that will go out and was asked about the give her heart, have readiness of the team, fun and come out he noted, "We got a lot victorious every to put in and we’re not time. that far ,but once we He also can be on the same touched on page every day and the individugrind it during als who dispractices, we’ll be agreed with the team we want Rose Jr is optimistic about the team’s chances the team seto be."

Guyana’s Game Schedule:

• Game 1: Thursday, April 15 – 21:00 GYT – Guyana v Nicaragua • Game 2: Friday, April 16 – 18:00 GYT – Jamaica v Guyana • Game 3: Saturday, April 17 – 21:00 GYT – Guyana v El Salvador • Game 4: Sunday, April 18 – 18:00 GYT – Costa Rica v Guyana All Guyana games will be broadcast via E-Networks E1 Channel.

TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021

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

Pg 23

Pg 22

Former Golden Jaguars Captain Chris Rose Jr optimistic of Nurse appointed team’s chances heading to MLS Next Equity into Pre-Qualifiers …honoured to lead side once again Action Committee Devon Ramnauth Youth League recognises late Coach Courtney Gonsalves

The GCA Executive

GCA saddened at untimely demise of Pretipaul Jaigobin

T

he Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) has expressed its regret at the passing of Pretipaul Jaigobin, popularly known as Jai, Assistant Treasurer of the Demerara Cricket Board (DCB) and recently-elected Treasurer of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB).

In a release by the GCA, it was said: “Jai as popularly called has contributed so much of his time and energies in the fight for good governance of cricket in Guyana. He believed in fairness, prudence, transparency and, most of all, accountability.

He was passionate about the administration of cricket and never swayed from his position of achieving jus-

Pretipaul Jaigobin

tice. Jai would have suffered physically at the hands of someone who was unhappy with his posture for fairness, honesty, and accountability.

This did not deter him from advocating for change. His involvement and commit-

ment manifested with the successful conclusion of the first democratic elections of the Guyana Cricket Board in over a decade.

To his wife, children and relatives, we feel your pain at losing your loved one. To the cricket fraternity, we have lost a stalwart. We take comfort in knowing that Jai’s life was an exemplary one that many should emulate. May His Soul Rest in Eternal Peace.”

Pretipaul was travelling from Mahdia to the Finance Ministry after completing a COVID-19 assignment when the accident occurred. He was an Economic and Financial Analyst of the European Union Task Force Unit of that Ministry.

Pg 22

Devon Ramnauth is flanked by Gonsalves’ daughter Subrina, left and widow Limma in Toronto

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