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8NEWS TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM High Court dismisses Bulkans’ lawsuit against BoG

…former APNU/AFC Minister to pay $250,000 in court costs for “incoherent” claim

Former APNU/AFC Minister Ronald Bulkan

A$90 million lawsuit against the Bank of Guyana and its Governor, Dr Gobind Ganga, was on Monday dismissed by High Court Judge Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, who among other things, deemed it deficient and an abuse of the court process.

Via a Statement of Claim, former APNU/AFC Minister Ronald Bulkan and his brother, Rustum Bulkan were asking the court to award them damages against Dr Ganga for negligence, deceit, misfeasance in public office for which they were seeking $40 million. Also, they were seeking damages against Central Bank for breach of statutory duty and were seeking in excess of $50 million in damages.

They had accused the Bank of Guyana and Dr Ganga (the first and second named respondents) of neglecting statutory duties when they failed to launch an investigation into the deposit of $82,068,617 into an account for which they are the only authorised signatories, belonging to Precision Woodworking Limited that was held at Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited (RBL).

The two brothers are shareholders in Precision Woodworking, a company that was placed into receivership of RBL in June 2016.

Their Statement of Claim was filed in December 2019 by Attorney-at-Law Patrice Henry. To counter their application, Dr Ganga and Central Bank filed a Notice of Application in February 2020, asking that the lawsuit be dismissed. They were represented by lawyer Pauline Chase.

In doing so, Dr Ganga, among other points, contended that the action was based on an erroneous premise that the deposit was made by an individual into the account. Chase stated that the deposit was not cash but credit, by way of provisioning pursuant to the Bank of Guyana Guidelines No 5 on “Loan Portfolio Review, Classification, Provisioning and other Related Requirements” issued under the authority of the Financial Institutions Act (FIA).

Chase disclosed that the

Central Bank Governor, Dr Gobind Ganga

bank account of Precision Woodworking was classified as non-performing by Bank of Guyana and by Republic Bank, with effect from May 31, 2011, as a result of the company being unable to satisfy its debts and obligations to the commercial bank.

Among other things, the lawyer contended that the brothers failed to demonstrate in the Statement of Claim a breach of statutory duty whether supervisory or investigatory under Sections 11 and 38 of the Bank of Guyana Act Cap 85:02 as her clients have at all times discharged their statutory duties in accordance with the Bank of Guyana Act, Cap 85:02 and the Financial Institution’s Act Cap 85:03.

In dismissing the Statement of Claim, Justice Sewnarine-Beharry underscored that the action is an abuse of the process. The High Court Judge held, “Statements of Case must be concise. They must plead only material facts, meaning those necessary for the purpose of formulating a cause of action or defence, and not background facts or evidence. Still less should they contain arguments, reasons, or rhetoric. [This] Statement of Claim is incoherent, prolix, lacks precision and is obscure.”

Furthermore, the Judge said that the action against Central Bank and its Governor should have been brought by Precision Woodworking, and not its shareholders. According to her, it is trite that a company has a separate legal personality from its directors and shareholders. In fact, the High Court Judge ruled that Dr Ganga was improperly sued in his personal capacity.

According to her, Section 4 (1) of the Bank of Guyana Act provides that it shall be a body corporate, while Section 11 provides that the Governor shall be the Chief Executive Officer and shall be responsible for the management of the Bank. Section 38 of the Act, the Judge said, provides that the Bank of Guyana shall have exclusive responsibility for the supervision and regulation of licensed financial institutions under that Act and the Financial Institutions Act.

Against this backdrop, Justice Sewnarine-Beharry held that “Actions for alleged wrongs must be instituted against the Bank of Guyana itself since it is a body corporate. The [Statement of] Claim is devoid of any particulars that support a cause of action against [Dr Ganga] in his personally.”

Furthermore, the Judge noted that the action brought by the brothers is statute-barred. She noted, too, that an action for the recovery of damages must be brought within three years after the cause of action arises. In court documents seen by Guyana Times, the brothers said that the monies were deposited into the company’s bank account on June 16, 2011, and can be supported through a Discovery Statement issued by Republic Bank pursuant to a court order.

The former Minister and his brother further said that during March 11, 2013, to December 22, 2017, they wrote to Dr Ganga; Republic Bank; former Finance Minister Winston Jordan; and former Attorney General Basil Williams in relation to the “unauthorised and suspicious” deposit.

TURN TO PAGE 12

Guess who’s...

...coming to dinner

So, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is coming to Guyana this Thursday. Imagine that! And here your Eyewitness thought he was living in a benighted backwater that (at best) only attracted diplomats being banished from up north. His daddy had told him that the Queen of England had actually checked us natives out personally back in the day just before Independence... and then again, he dimly remembered she’d also come in 1994. But those don’t really count...do they? Her visits are more or less ceremonial.

So that raises the question as to what brings Secretary Pompeo down in these parts? Surely, we can all agree it’s not “ceremonial”. Mike doesn’t do “ceremonial”. This West Point graduate is a “can-do” man – being a businessman, lawyer (Harvard grad, even!) , a Congressman and most importantly – a Director of the CIA! Succeeding Rex Tillerson as Secretary of State after the latter earned President Trump’s ire, Pompeo’s stint at State has been positively benign compared to the hijinks going on in other areas of the US Government!

And that’s pretty much because he’s a personification of the conservative agenda that Trump adopted – even being a member of the Tea Party at one time! So once again, why is Big Mike moseying down these parts? The question, of course, is actually, “which of the US’s interests are intersecting with Guyana’s at this time that the peripatetic Secty of State must tend to? There’re, of course, our democratic credentials – which Secretary Pompeo played not an inconsiderable role in helping to preserve over the last five months!! Against the machinations of the PNC and its proxies in GECOM to hijack the elections.

It’s not surprising, therefore, that the PNC is having fits over the visit! Raphael Trotman literally was foaming at the mouth and issuing dire threats against the PPP not to pander to Pompeo. This is quite ironic, since it’s been said – without contradiction – that his political career (and Ramjattan’s) received quite a defining boost from George Bush’s Republican Administration back in 2005!! Oh, how the world turns!! But would Pompeo really fly down just to compliment President Ali?? Naah... there’s gotta be more in the mortar than that pestle.

There’s the Exxon desire to get on with Payara, some say with good reason, since Mike’s always been supportive of Big Oil. Kinda like, “what’s good for the energy industry is good for America!” The Government should expect a nudge.

Then, of course, there’s the elephant in the (Southern Caribbean) room – Venezuela. Mike’s been integral in pushing for democracy over there.

So, for sure he’ll ask the Government to give Maduro a nudge!! Democracy lives!!

...now playing catch-up

With one simple statement last week, Volda Lawrence pulled the rug out from under David Granger and his pretentions of being leader of the PNC!! Showing she could beard the (toothless) lion in his chosen arena, Volda left Georgetown and threw down the gauntlet to Granger and his place-holder Harmon at historic Hopetown.

Granger had unleashed the hounds of inter-ethnic violence on West Berbice after the gruesome murder of the Henry cousins. And just when matters were spiralling out of control as the Police’s and Army’s professionalism were stretched, Volda called upon “every single member of the PNC”: “what I have seen along the way, as a leader, I consciously cannot condone. We are hurting each other as a people, we are hurting each other as neighbours and friends and we are turning on each other as though we don’t know each other and as a Leader, we have to call a spade a spade.

“We certainly can display our grief in a different manner,” she concluded.

And forced Granger to do a volte-face!

...possibly coming back

Not that they’ll ever get credit from the likes of Lincoln Lewis and his bauxite union, but the PPP’re doing their darnedest to help Rusal to get back into Guyana.

Even considering dredging the Berbice River.

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

NEWS 9 TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM Coalition “purposefully sought to demolish and destroy” sugar industry – MP Narine

Government Member of ly sought to demolish and deNarine boasted that Parliament, Seepaul stroy the sugar industry for Budget 2020 demonstrates Narine on Monday their own nefarious ends.” that commitment with the waded into the previous “What kind of leaders allocation of $5 billion for APNU/AFC Administration put thousands of people out the sugar industry. He disover its management of the of work without any plan to closed that a team of excountry over the last five deal with the fallout?” he perts has already begun to years, particularly in relaasked. explore various options for tion to its handling of the The MP, who is also the the Skeldon, Rosehall and sugar sector. General Secretary of the Enmore Estates.

Narine, in his maidGuyana Agriculture and He added that the new en presentation during the General Workers’ Union PPP Government will enRose Hall Estate Budget 2020 debates said (GAWU), reasoned that sure that a capable Board that this year’s budget is “a breath of fresh air” for many the coalition Government claimed it had all the anof Directors and effective Management are put in place Opposition MP urges Guyanese since it seeks to reverse the backward, anti-development policies that the previous Administration had implemented. “Budget 2020 marks the first step in the journey to reverse the vampire-like policies that plagued our nation over the last five years when the coalition spared no one, except themselves,” he posited. He reminded that during the APNU/AFC’s tenure in office, “many poor Guyanese faced troubled times to put meals on the table and could not get jobs…and many of their gains were sucked away by the coalition Government”. Narine, a trade unionist by profession, reminded that it was under the APNU/ AFC Government that over 30,000 people lost their jobs. Turning his attention to the sugar sector, he said there is no reason whatsoever for the manner in which the coalition treated sugar workers, which he said resulted in untold suffering across the country. He contended that much was lost over the last five years due to an uncaring Administration “who didn’t understand and certainly did not care about the sufferings of sugar workers”. “The coalition purposefulGovernment Member of Parliament, Seepaul Narine swers to solving the issues plaguing the sugar sector, but “certainly they had the wrong answers.” Narine explained that when the PPP/C took office in August this year, it found that billions of dollars in equipment was left to rot due to neglect and an uncaring attitude by the APNU/AFC. In terms of sugar production, he explained that during the life of the coalition Government, production fell by a record 60 per cent. He said that President Irfaan Ali has pledged his commitment to reopen the estates so that life could be breathed into those communities once again which the coalition turned into “ghosttowns”. to turn around the sector and to make it viable once again. Meanwhile, the MP noted that the reestablishment of the Ministry of Labour is a testimony to the commitment of the present Government towards ensuring that workers’ rights are protected. According to the MP, Budget 2020 is a welcome departure from a time “when Guyanese feared what next will be increased and what else would be taken away from them”. He concluded that “Budget 2020 is a poor people progressive budget with significant attention to lifting our working people, putting them to work, and making them and their families comfortable”. E ven though it was the former APNU/AFC Administration that Tripartite Committee has not engaged again,” Hamilton had told the media. increase in Private Sector minimum wage Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton Opposition Member of Parliament Coretta McDonald failed to finalise the increase of “As I understand it, the prothe Private Sector minimum posal had to do with $60,000 in wage, Opposition Member of the first instance, that’s what Parliament Coretta McDonald I learnt. The question is how is now calling on the new soon they engage to concretise PPP/C Administration to do that proposal. I have instructso. ed the Chief Labour Officer McDonald on Monday [Charles Ogle] to have that urged the Government to meeting convened so that the return to the Tripartite proposal for the raising of the Agreement and urgently put minimum wage can be dealt the necessary mechanisms in with and implemented.” place to increase the minimum The Private Sector miniwage in the Private Sector to mum wage has not increased $60,000. since 2017 when it was raised During her maiden prefrom the monthly wage from sentation in the National $35,000 to $44,200. The miniAssembly, the Opposition mum wage in the public sector Member of Parliament said currently stands at $70,000. that workers in the commerMeanwhile, MP McDonald cial sector are being paid meacalled on the Government gre wages and salaries which to provide details regarding are inadequate to meet their where exactly the 50,000 jobs needs. it promised would be allocated. “I call on the Honourable She noted that while Minister of Labour to put in her party supports the place systems to make the Government in finding a solu$60,000 agreed upon by the tion to address the plight of Tripartite Committee as the sugar workers, it must also new minimum wage for the focus on solving the issues afPrivate Sector employees,” she fecting the bauxite sector. urged. In relation to the oil and Labour Minister, Joseph gas sector, she said that as a Hamilton, had recently told nation Guyana must be betthe media that the Tripartite ter prepared for the challenges Committee is expected to meet that will confront us. soon to continue discussions to The MP urged that steps increase the minimum wage must be taken to ensure that in the Private Sector. every citizen benefits from Last year, the Tripartite Guyana’s oil-rich resources. Committee had begun discus“As oil and gas continsions with the aim of raising ues to be an important part the Private Sector minimum of our development, systems wage to $60,000. However, must be put in place so that meetings of the Committee every group, every region, evhad stalled and no firm deery NDC, and every single citcision was made as to how to izens regardless of their creed, proceed. colour, or religion must benefit “It is a matter that is outequally from the sector.” standing. There is a Tripartite She added that this does Committee between Labour, not refer to employment alone, Government and business but the contracts for the supthat met, discussed this matply of labour, goods and othter and a proposal is on the er services which must be distable that is since last year. tributed equally across ethnic For whatever reason, the groups in Guyana.

10 NEWS TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM Wife, 3 others in custody for murder of taxi driver

The three men who were reof jewellery. portedly paid to execute After the robbery, the suspects 47-year-old Mohamed Haniff left the home and made good their of Lot 56 Experiment, West Coast escape in an unknown direction. Berbice, were arrested and are beSometime after the ordeal, the ining interrogated by detectives. jured man was found lying on the

The names of the three men were floor in a pool of blood. given to the police by the man’s He was picked up by a neighbour wife, who is the alleged mastermind and rushed to the Fort Wellington in the murder of her husband over Public Hospital, and later transthe pawning of their marital home. ferred to the New Amsterdam The wife remains in custody. Public Hospital where he was ad

A police source told Guyana mitted a patient in a serious condiTimes that while the men did not tion but subsequently died at about give a full confession, they have giv01:30h on Saturday. en a detailed report on the plan to It was reported that the man’s murder the man. The three men, inwife called a friend who was severcluding a security officer, the source al villages away and reported the noted, are from Bath Settlement, Murdered: Mohamed Hanniff incident to him. That friend then WCB. pay, he will take possession of the called a neighbour, who called the

As the men are being questioned, house…but based on investigations, police. The man was chopped to his one of them told detectives that he the husband was not aware of the forehead and once to the back of his was not involved in the actual murbusiness transaction,” a source stathead. der but rather drove the suspects to ed. After speaking with investigathe address. He noted that based on Nevertheless, the police are contors and allegedly giving conflicting discussions in the car, the plan was tinuing their investigations. stories, the woman was taken into to commit the robbery but there was It was reported that three men custody. no mention of killing the man. entered the now dead man’s house The couple’s daughter, Bibi

This publication was told that Friday evening. At the time, the Haniff, who lives next door with her the man returned to Guyana a few man’s 44-year-old wife was at home husband, revealed that her father days prior to his death and was on also. returned from St Marteen and had self-quarantine. One of the suspects The masked men were armed approximately US$8000 and gold told the detectives that they were with a small handgun, a metal jewellery in a bag hidden away. told he returned with lots of cash. bar and a cutlass. One of the susAccording to her, she was told

The mastermind reportedly did pects dealt the victim several chops that when the men entered the not have access to the money that to his head as the others demandhouse, they demanded that her the man brought back, hence the ed cash. After he did not co-opermother hand over the money and planned robbery. “The plan was to ate, he was severely beaten in the gold. She said that her father was in get to money to repay the man she presence of his wife. After ransackthe bedroom while her mother was had pawned the house to…the man ing the house, they found an undisin the sitting room at the time of the had told her that if she does not closed sum of money and a quantity incident.

2 busted with ganja, illegal gun at roadblock

The gun and ammunition found in the car on Sunday during the roadblock

Two Georgetown residents were on Sunday taken into Police custody after a quantity of ganja and an illegal firearm and matching ammunition were discovered in the car in which they were travelling.

The car was intercepted at a roadblock at Weldaad Police Station, West Coast Berbice (WCB). Based on reports received, the marijuana was discovered in the hood of the car while the gun and ammunition were found under the driver’s seat.

Based on information received, a 34-year-old man of Lamaha Park, Georgetown, and a 28-year-old woman of David Street, Kitty, were the occupants of motor car PYY 2127 when it pulled up at a roadblock. Upon seeing the two people, Police ordered them out of the vehicle so that a search could be conducted on their persons.

The .38 revolver along with five live rounds of ammunition were found. Guyana Times understands that the serial number on the weapon is almost invisible.

Further, a search was conducted on the vehicle but nothing was found inside but as the hood of the car was popped, at least six parcels of ganja were discovered wrapped in transparent plastic. The duo was immediately arrested and placed in custody.

During interrogation, the man confessed that the drugs were his and that the woman had no knowledge of same. They are expected to be charged shortly.

Budget Debate 2020…

Former APNU/AFC Govt racked up $13.1B in unpaid electricity bill – Min Indar

…says lack of investment responsible for constant blackouts

The former A ple get blackout, every time ing sets. to supply the national grid Partnership for a wire goes down people get “The first loan was negowith power. National Unity/ blackout,” Indar said. tiated and paid $1.1 billion Alliance For Change He referred to the US$50 in April (2020). And then a Hinterland Electrification (APNU/AFC) Government million the Government had $4.5 billion on May 22 and Company Incorporated has been accused of having loaned GPL to buy five genthere was another tranche of H i n t e r l a n d some unwritten policy of erating sets, which he said $5 billion on June 22. Mind Electrification Company not honouring its electricare currently stranded in you, we had an election on Incorporated (HECI) is the ity bills, which has now reFinland; as well as the some March 2. From March 2 to holding company for sevsulted in the Guyana Power $994 million for civil works, and Light (GPL) being in a of which only 15 per cent are severe financial conundrum. completed.

This was according to According to Minister Junior Minister of Public Indar, Guyana nor its peoWorks, Deodat Indar, who ple will benefit from any told the National Assembly of these investments until that the APNU/AFC April 2021 or thereafter. Administration owes GPL a whopping $13.1 billion. “Upon looking at the Junior Public Works Minister Deodat Indar The total cost of the project is just over $10 billion and would see the acquisibooks of GPL, I have found til October. tion of five Wartsila generathat there is $13.1 billion It was revealed that over tors. The deal was struck for that the Government of the the past three years, the a 46-megawatts, dual-fire the resumption of the PPP en other entities responpast five years owes GPL. utility company has been power plant at the Garde of Government, there was a sible for powering sevIt seems as that there was running at a loss of just Eden, East Bank Demerara recount. The recount estaberal hinterland regions. a national policy unwritabout $8.7 billion. location. The engines will be lished the PPP was the winThe companies under the ten somewhere that you As he continued to capable of using natural gas, ner,” Minister Indar had Hinterland Electrification should not pay your light lament on the state of affairs from Guyana’s offshore oil said in a previous press enCompany Incorporated bill. It (the $13.1 billion) of GPL, the Minister exwells, as well as heavy fuel gagement. are Linden Electricity Co represents 4 per cent of the plained that the issue with oil (HFO). Former Public Indar further explained Inc (LECI), Lethem Power entire ($330 billion) 2020 the power company is that Works Minister, David that, upon assumption to Co Inc (LMPC), Mahadia budget,” Minister Indar rethe previous Administration Patterson had defended the office, his Ministry sprang Power & Light Co Inc lated during his 2020 Budget had not invested enough. He project, noting that it is iminto action to address the is(MPL), Port Kaituma Power Debate presentation. blamed the lack of investportant to boost Guyana’s sues facing GPL, noting that & Light Co Inc (PKPL),

At the end of 2019, $17.7 ments for the constant powdeteriorating generating caover 30 firms have respondMaburama Power & Light billion was owed to the power er outages the nation expepacity. ed to Expressions of Interest Co Inc (MAPL), Matthews company of which the $13.1 riences. “They went and expendbillion was racked up by the “The issue with GPL and ed this money at a time APNU/AFC Administration. the blackouts is that the prewhen there was a pandemic

He said that when vious Government has not and during the pandemic, a the People’s Progressive invested. Only US$1 milnumber of workers are furParty/Civic (PPP/C) lion in 5 years to put baseloughed and they don’t have Administration took office load capacity in GPL. That jobs, businesses are shut in August, GPL had just is why you are finding every down, they need support and about $1.9 billion in its bank day there is blackout everythe previous Government account and that amount where. There is zero revolvdid not use their wits to help would have taken care of the ing capacity at GPL. Every people but went and spent company’s expenditures untime an engine goes out peoall this money on generat

Ridge Power & Light Co Inc (MRPL) and Kwakwani Utilities Inc (KUI).

Minister Indar related that HECI has been severely neglected.

“Linden has 4597 consumers. Mr Speaker, this, my understanding, is supposed to be one of the strongest bases for the Opposition, what you found is neglect. Right now, Linden is in the hold of $726 million – it was underfunded under the APNU Government,” he said.

He explained that only last Friday he along with substantive Minister Juan Edghill and Prime Minister Mark Phillips had to make representation to Cabinet for an $81 million bailout for KUI.

“Kwakwani, it has 1089 consumers. Kwakwani did not have money to pay the workers, they did not have money to buy fuel for the generators,” he added.

HECI is responsible for providing electricity for over 15 per cent of the population. (G2)

12 NEWS TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM 16,000 gallons of illegal fuel found in 2 vessels at Parika

…5 in custody

Agents of the Guyana Energy Authority (GEA) intercepted two vessels containing 16,000 gallons of illegal fuel at Parika Stelling, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), on Friday last.

Following the discovery of the illegal fuel, the Guyana Police Force was informed and an investigation has commenced.

Based on reports gathered, the first vessel was captained by a 56-year-old man of Meten-Meer-Zorg, West Coast Demerara However, on this point, the High Court Judge concluded, “Assuming that the cause of action arose from (1) June 16, 2011,the date of the alleged deposit,(2) March 13, 2013 when the matter was first raised by letter,(3)July 15, 2014, the request for prosecution, or (4) March 22, 2016 by letter intimating to the Respondents that there was no evidence to prosecute RBL, each fell outside the limitation period, the action having been filed on December 23, 2019.” As a consequence, it was ordered that the brothers pay $250,000 in court costs to the Respondents on or before October 30, 2020. It was further ordered that counsel for the brothers personally pay costs in the sum of $75,000 to the Respondents on or before October 30, 2020, for prolixity of pleadings. The court further or(WCD). During the search and seizure, the crew comprised of three persons - a 55-year-old resident of Good Success, Wakenaam; a 54-year-old of Orenstein, East Bank Essequibo, and a 20-year-old of MetenMeer-Zorg - who were arrested.

The other vessel was reportedly captained by a 44-year-old of Greenwich Park, East Bank Essequibo. All five persons were detained and are assisting Police with the investigation. dered costs awarded shall be paid before any further steps are taken in the proceedings.

In their actions, the Bulkans alleged that Central Bank ignored and had continued to ignore their pleas for an investigation with the view of prosecution in relation to the deposit given that it has regulatory oversight over Republic Bank. They had claimed that despite Republic Bank confirming that the monies were indeed deposited, Bank of Guyana “arbitrary and whimsically” denied the deposit being made.

“[We] are gravely concerned and disturbed that the deposit was a breach of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering of Financial Terrorism Act by an individual identifiable by name. [We] are accurately aware of the international finan

Guyana Times understands that the fuel is being smuggled by a wellknown business in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara). It is believed that the fuel came from Venezuela.

Back in 2017, the GEA had announced that a total of 11,000 gallons of illegal gasoline and diesel were seized from 29 discoveries following 12,882 site visits and 33,891 samples collected. This resulted in six convictions, while

High Court dismisses $90M... FROM PAGE 8

compensation was accepted

cial jeopardy that Guyana endured as a result of the Financial Task Force blacklisting Guyana prior to 2015; and of the government’s post 2015 zero tolerance for money laundering,” the sibling noted in court documents.

In that regard, they said that they are too well aware and cognizant of the draconian and ruinous effects of the penalties of fines ranging from $220M to $520M, and/ or imprisonment prescribed under the Anti-money Laundering and Countering of Financial Terrorism Act.

In addition, the Bulkans were asking the court to award them exemplary damages for the potential harm, distress and unease caused by the bank’s Governor. They were also seeking substantial costs and further or other order as the court deems just in the circumstances.

The two vessels found laden with illegal fuel

from four individuals unDirectors of the company der GEA legislation in the that owns the vessel would sum of $1,237,000. have to pay some $36 mil

Four months into 2018, lion in taxes to the Guyana the regulatory body had anRevenue Authority (GRA). nounced it has seized in exThe vessel was to be imcess of 9000 gallons of gasopounded until the dues are line and diesel as part of its paid. According to records, anti-smuggling campaign. the fuel transported on the Inspectors would have visvessel was purchased in ited 3191 sites and collectTrinidad with Suriname ed 8339 fuel samples in the as the destination port. first quarter of the year. After that arrangement fell

This information came through, however, the veson the heels of a shipping sel reportedly docked here. vessel Jubliee being discovered with over 200,000 galLicensing lons of suspected smuggled The GEA, through fuel, when it entered the its Legal and Licensing Georgetown port and its Division, is responsible officials failed to disclose for “monitoring the perforthat it had fuel to customs mance of the energy secofficials until checks were tor in Guyana, including made. the production, importa

Commissioner General tion, distribution and utilof the Guyana Revenue isation of petroleum and Authority (GRA), Godfrey petroleum products” in acStatia later informed that cordance with Section 5 (2) (c) of the GEA Act Chapter 56:05 as well as the provisions of the Petroleum and Petroleum Products Regulations 2014. The latter deals with permitting the issuance of licences of the various categories (import, wholesale, retail, bulk transportation carrier, storage, export, consumer installation) and site and vehicle inspections.

These licences are required for the conduct of different types of activities concerning petroleum and petroleum products, which include diesel, gasoline, kerosene, aviation fuel, lubricants and LPG.

As of the end of 2017, there were 13 Import and Importing Wholesale Licences for the importation of fuel – that is, diesel, gasoline, kerosene, and aviation fuel.

NEWS 13 TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM Body of foreign national, cocaine found onboard 2 Brazilian aircraft in Reg 7

…3 others taken into custody

Items found on the three males

One day after three foreign nationals and an aircraft were found in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), another aircraft was discovered, this time with a large amount of cocaine and a dead man.

According to Regional Commander, Superintendent Deon Moore, the second aircraft was found several hundred yards away from the Nine Miles Airstrip, Issano – where the first one was located.

The police have since confirmed that along with the human remains, a huge amount of cocaine was also found in the crashed aeroplane. On Sunday, Police acting on information received proceeded to the airstrip located in the Middle Mazaruni area and a red and white 206 Cessna aircraft was found.

In addition, three men – the 38-year-old pilot from Boa Vista; a 29-year-old pilot from Temeremo, Venezuela; and a 35-year-old internet technician from Manaus, Brazil – were found in close proximity of the aeroplane.

Ranks, however, questioned the three men via Google Translate, where it was disclosed that they were heading to Suriname with a second aircraft when it developed mechanical issues.

The men claimed that this forced them to crash land, causing one of the occupants to suffer a fractured right arm and minor bruises about his face.

While Police could not find the other aircraft, the one discovered was examined but there was no visible damage. Along with the three persons, nothing illegal was found in the aircraft other than a cell phone, satellite phone, identification documents and other items. Nevertheless, the three men were arrested and taken into custody.

The discovery of the second aircraft was made hours after by the police ranks who went in search of the missing plane. Investigations are ongoing and the aircraft remains on the ground under Police security.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic struck, Guyana’s airspace remains closed with only authorisation for special flights. Even under normal conditions, aircraft cannot enter the country or pass through without permission.

Back in September 2016, a Joint Services patrol discovered an illegal aircraft hidden just off of the Yupukari Airstrip, Rupununi, with United States registration N-767-Z.

A team of investigators from the GDF, GPF, Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit and the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority was subsequently deployed to the area to conduct investigations and were able to deter

The huge amount of cocaine found in the wrecked aircraft

mine that the registration number was bogus.

A one-man Commission of Inquiry (CoI) to probe the discovery of the illegal

The first aircraft which was discovered on Sunday

aircraft appointed Retired Brigadier Edward Collins to investigate, examine, advise and report on all aspects under which the foreign aircraft had entered the country. The CoI proved that the aircraft entered Guyana illegally.

Later in August 2017, an illegal airstrip was unearthed about five kilometres West of Santa Fe, Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takatu-Upper Essequibo), by members of the Guyana Defence Force. Following a closer inspection of the perimeter of the airstrip, several dug out trenches were found. They were covered with black plastic and dried branches.

Upon removing the plastic and branches, several items were found concealed in the holes; including a chain saw and fuel drums. In addition, a quarter drum of aviation fuel was also found at the airstrip. At least 12 abandoned camps were found in close proximity of the airstrip.

Two weeks later, Police intercepted an illegal aircraft minutes after it landed. A search was conducted during which over a dozen 10-gallon jars were found

The wrecked aircraft found on Monday

hidden in the bushes. The party had also observed that a long strip of land measuring one mile in length and about 50 feet in width was cleared.

An inter-agency probe

unearthed that the aircraft, which initially had a Colombian registration number, was actually registered to Brazil’s third largest bank, Banco Bradesco. (G12)

14 NEWS TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM Guyana records 31 new COVID-19 cases

Guyana recorded 31 new cases of COVID-19 on Monday which now takes the country’s overall total to 1884.

The statistics were published on the Health Ministry’s daily dashboard, showing that fatalities still stand at 56. The last death was reported on Sunday morning.

The data presented a gender breakdown of 929 males and 955 females being infected thus far. The number of persons in the designated Intensive Care Unit is 16 after one patient was transferred.

There are 510 individuals in home isolation while some 37 persons are in institutional isolation and 94 in institutional quarantine. From the confirmed cases, 1265 persons have recovered – an increase of 50.

A regional breakdown of the new cases showed that three were detected in Region One (BarimaWaini), one in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), three in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), 11 in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), three in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), one in Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni), four in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and three in Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice).

The other regional figures remain the same with 12 in Region Five and 244 in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni).

Guyana’s COVID-19 death toll had increased to 56 following the death of

an elderly woman on

Sunday morning. This was accompanied by 41 new cases.

This latest

COVID-19 fatality announced by the

Ministry of Health was an 83-year-old woman from Region Four, who died while receiving care at the designated Intensive Care

Unit (ICU) at the

Georgetown Public

Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

According to the

Ministry, the test sample was collected from the elderly woman at the time of her admission and the results returned positive for COVID-19 subsequently. Her death comes on the heels of the Ministry reporting three new COVID deaths since Friday.

With the number of deaths continuing to rapidly rise,

Health Minister Dr

Frank Anthony has announced through the

Department of Public

Information that plans are on stream to purchase the drug Remdesivir to treat patients who have fallen critically-ill as a result of the novel coronavirus.

Remdesivir is an anti-viral drug administered by intravenous (IV) therapy to COVID-19 patients suffering from severe symptoms. It is known as a nucleoside analogue, which means that it mimics a component of viral ribonucleic acid (RNA) that the virus needs to replicate itself

The Minister explained that the drug is being made available to Guyana at a cheaper cost and has already been used to treat hospitalised and critically ill COVID-19 patients. Guyana had initially received 240 doses of the drug.

Policeman stabbed by wanted man at Port Kaituma

Apoliceman was on brow and left buttock. Monday stabbed The other ranks manseveral times about aged to apprehend the sushis body by a wanted man pect, who was wanted in during a confrontation at connection with the murOne Mile Port Kaituma, der of pensioner Earl Peters North West District (NWD), on September 5, 2020; Region One (Barimathe wounding committed Waini). on Troy Roberts, who is

The injured rank has presently admitted at the been identified as Lance Georgetown Public Hospital Corporal Bertland Scotland, and also for the wounding of who is attached to the Port Police Constable Edwards Kaituma Police Station. at Arakaka Police Outpost

Based on reports reon August 20, 2020. ceived Police acting on inMeanwhile, the injured formation received went to policeman was treated at S1A Junction, One Mile, the Port Kaituma District Port Kaituma, NWD, where Injured: Lance Corporal Hospital and subsequently they confronted the suspect Bertland Scotland medevaced to Georgetown. who was the occupant of the His condition is regarded as upper flat of a two-storey he reportedly whipped out a serious but stable. building. knife and stabbed Scotland Investigations into the

However, in an atto his left hand, left hip, left incident are underway. tempt to apprehend him, lower abdomen, left eye

Inmate to be charged for murder at Lusignan Prison

Dead: Jason Dundas

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has advised the police to institute a murder charge against an inmate in relation to one of the two killings that occurred this year at the Lusignan Prison. This was confirmed on Monday by Director of Prisons, Gladwyn Samuels.

Samuels was, however, unable to say if the individual would be charged in relation to the first or second killing as he is still to receive relevant documentation. The Prison Director disclosed that in relation to the other killing, the police Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) and the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) have recently signed an agreement for a $6 million grant which will be used to conduct a feasibility study on a possible consolidated log yard operation in Guyana.

The approach to this study will be through a consultative process involving key stakeholders such as forest sector operators, Government agencies, civil society, Indigenous organisations and other Non-Governmental Organisations.

The establishment of any

were advised to conduct additional investigations and forward the file to the DPP.

There were two killings this year at the penitentiary. The first one occurred on Tuesday, April 21, 2020, and the other on August 18, 2020. In both cases, the victims were chopped to death. Based on reports, Jason Dundas, 31, of Anns Grove, East Coast Demerara, was chopped about his body during a fight with two inmates. He was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he died.

He was remanded to prison in August 2019 for trafficking in narcotics. It was alleged that on August 22, 2019, at Corn Hill Street, Georgetown, he had in his possession 43.772 kilograms or (96.5 pounds) of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking. The drugs were unearthed after Police conducted a search on his stall.

Meanwhile, 40-year-old Aldryn Adonis, also known as “Shawn Peters”, who was remanded for simple larceny, was killed on August 18, 2020. According to reports, the man and four other inmates were involved in a fight during which he log yard should have as its intended purpose to improve growth within the forestry sector in an open marketplace and as a clearinghouse for legally produced timber that meets the needs of the local and international markets.

Only timber products which are compliant with Guyana’s Timber Legality Assurance System (GTLAS) should be traded through such a facility. The facility’s adherence to the GTLAS will engender enhanced confidence in the legality of wood products on the local and international markets.

Through research and consultations with the key

Director of Prisons, Gladwyn Samuels

was seriously chopped to the head, chest, hands and feet.

Police had stated that Adonis was in the Bay Two area, while the suspects were in Bay One. On the day in question, Adonis jumped the fence which separates the two bays. Whilst in Bay One, an argument ensued between himself and the suspects. A fight ensued sometime after.

He was taken to the medical outpost at the prison and then escorted to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was admitted a pa

GMSA gets $6M grant from FAO to conduct feasibility study on log yard

The Guyana

tient in a critical condition. stakeholders, various models will be examined for suitability to Guyana’s context and within the framework of the National Forest Policy. In addition, a consolidated log yard can support the Guyana-EU Joint Implementation Framework for the FLEGT Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) in the specific areas of marketing and promoting legal timber and timber products.

It was based on these ideals that the FAO-EU FLEGT programme has agreed to support the feasibility study and has approved the grant which will be used by GMSA over a period of six months.

NEWS 15 TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM PPP budget reverses draconian measures of former Granger Govt – FITUG

…budget lauded as pro-poor, pro-people

After carefully exAdministration starting on fully utilised as we see the pension will be increased amining the 2020 a good footing as it reverses monstrosity of D’Urban to $25,000 per month, penNational Budget many of the draconian meaPark and the new COVID sioners will receive free wawhich is being presented sures that were implementhospital, where hundreds of ter, with the overall removby the People’s Progressive ed by the former coalition millions more had to be earal of Value Added Tax (VAT) Party Government, the Government,” the missive marked. Apart from the milon electricity and water also Federation of Independent asserted. lions, if not billions, went to slated to be announced. Trade Unions of Guyana The Federation consupportive individuals and It was announced that (FITUG) has expressed suptended that Guyanese have enterprises,” the organisaVAT would also be removed port of its provisions for the much to look forward to and tion penned. from all medical supplies, people of Guyana, especialbe pleased about, with the FITUG recognised that not just those related to ly the vulnerable groups. instantaneous removal of there is a great deal of work treating COVID-19 and its

In a press statement on unnecessary taxes, espeto be done but signalled symptoms, or even for perMonday, the organisation cially on key utility services that the Administration has sonal protective equipment said the budget debate prosuch as electricity and wabegun on a positive footing. (PPE). VAT will also be revided Guyanese with the ter along with medicine and It was dubbed as a pro-poor moved from hinterland opportunity to be cognisant of what is in store for them, healthcare. It added, “All in all we FITUG President Carvil Duncan and pro-people financial outline of Government’s intravel and cell phones, as well as building and conand moreover, it delivered a plan that will improve their lives. Last Wednesday marked the first budget in almost two years. The $330 billion Emergency Budget was presented at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, providing Guyana with much-needed resources and development plans after the political upheaval of the past year. “The Federation recognises that the budget is geared to improve the well-being of all Guyanese. Indeed, we see the first budget of the Irfaan Ali were heartened to learn that as much as twenty billion dollars will be aggregately put into the pockets of the Guyanese people. This is a massive windfall for our people and one we are sure they desperately need.” It went on to say that Government was stymied by the billions of dollars that were spent by the former caretaker Administration over the first half of the year. If this was not the case, more initiatives could have been rolled out. “We recognised too that the new Government was caught between a rock and a hard place with tens of billions spent or committed even prior to its assumption to office. This undoubtedly must have caused the incumbent Administration to temper its basket of goodies it wished to deliver to the Guyanese people. Of course, we believe, the Guyanese people deserve more. Many workers had anticipated an increase in the tax threshold. While we know the Government, undoubtedly, wanted to do and to give more, it had to contend with the bad hand it was dealt.” According to FITUG, this budget demonstrated how Guyana’s economy was mismanaged during the term of the previous Government. It said the coalition spent over $1.2 trillion during its lifetime which it “collected from the sweat” of the Guyanese people but little to gain. “It causes us to wonder where our hard-earned monies went and what value did the Guyanese people get. From all indications, large sums were used to fatten the former elites and find jobs for the boys and girls. Significant sums, apparently, were also wastetentions. “Certainly, careful examination is required as the new Government must untangle the many messes it inherited as it continues in its thrust to deliver development to the people. We believe that the budget has made a concerted effort to touch the life of every Guyanese man, woman and child. This is a welcome effort especially given the heartlessness which prevailed before. It is in this regard that we hold budget 2020 as pro-poor and pro-people.” In addition, the old-age struction materials. The Government will also be removing corporate tax on private education and healthcare, a measure likely to bring the service costs down. There are also measures for the productive sectors. VAT has been removed from all exports, as well as machines and equipment. Additionally, duties have been reversed on machines and equipment. President Ali had also announced that tax concessions will be granted for persons operating in the mining, agriculture and forestry sectors.

CORONAVIRUS SYMPTOMS People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of (COVID-19) INFORMATION AND GUIDELINES symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms or combinations of symptoms may have COVID-19: HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF?

Cough Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing Or at least two of these symptoms:

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

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

Fever

Chills

Repeated shaking with chills Muscle pain

Children have similar symptoms to adults and generally have mild illness.

16 NEWS TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Budget debate got underway with fiery exchanges

Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton

The debates on the 2020 Emergency Budget got underway on Monday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) with members on both sides trading fiery barbs and questions being posed to the Government side.

During his presentation, Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton used the floor to speak to his portfolio. He spoke of the constraints he has encountered, in taking up his office and the steps they will be taking to address them.

Minister Hamilton flayed the former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government for the lack of attention it paid to labour-related issues during its time in office.

He explained that when he took office, the

As investigations continue into a fire which destroyed a building that housed the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) office at Wismar, Linden, back in July, the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has advised Police that there

Division Commander, Superintendent Hugh Winter

is insufficient evidence to charge anyone with a crime.

This is according to Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) Divisional Commander, Superintendent Hugh Winter.

Police in Linden had last month submitted a report for legal advice on the way for

Public Works Minister Deodat Indar

Ministry of Labour (former ly a Department in the then Ministry of Social Protection) was staffed with 87 persons. However, he noted that the recommended complement of staff should be 137.

“That is the reason why they could not have done any thing tangible. So you could not have proper workplace in spections. You could not have proper investigations of ac cidents. Because they don’t have the employees to carry out their functions,” Hamilton told the House.

It was not lost on Hamilton that all four Ministers with responsibility for labour un der APNU/AFC – Volda Lawrence, Simona Broomes, Amna Ally and Keith Scott – were omitted by their party from the list of parliamentar ians. According to Hamilton, labour stagnated under ward in relation to the suspected arson case. There have been no arrests in connection with the incident thus far, however, the Divisional Commander stated that the investigation is continuing.

The sub-office, which was situated at Lot 2 Burnham Drive, Wismar, Linden, was destroyed by fire in the wee hours of July 14. It was reported that a security guard, who was on duty at the time, was in the guard hut when she heard a loud noise emanating from the western side of the building.

This prompted her to make checks during which she heard another loud sound and observed flames emanating from within the building. At

MP Sanjeev Datadin

APNU/AFC.

“The Ministry of Labour, reestablished, will be built and will stand on three pil lars. One, capacity building. Two, human development and three, the protection of the rights of workers. Capacity building, we would set out to train and retrain workers. And we have already put in place activities to do that.”

“Human development in that context, we believe that workers’ welfare should be looked after. The issue of housing. The issue of health care. The issue of education and access to education, for themselves and children,” Hamilton said.

First-timers

Also taking the floor were a number of first time MPs who delivered their maiden speeches and rebuttals,

Fire at GECOM Wismar office

DPP advises insufficient evidence to charge anyone with crime

The aftermath of the fire

as well as question regardthe scene, there was a smell of gasoline. The guard told investigators that two males were seen running from the building as they made good their escape.

Police reportedly questioned several persons in relation to the incident but no useful information was obtained.

Ranks also canvassed the area but it was reported that the area has no CCTV cameras.

Meanwhile, the building was fitted with two metal panel doors which were well secured. The building, which is owned by Lindener Fitzgerald London, was being rented by GECOM for the past four years.

MP Seepaul Narine

ing some of the PPP’s campaign promises. They included Junior Minister of Public Works Deodat Indar and Opposition MP, Coretta McDonald.

Indar lambasted APNU/ AFC for their poor handling of the Guyana Power and Light (GPL), noting that the agen cy was saddled with a US$50 million loan despite the emptiness of its coffers. He also noted that a lack of invest ment into building base capacity has hobbled GPL’s ability to deliver uninterrupted power.

McDonald, who is the General Secretary of the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU), spoke to a number of labour-related issues. In par ticular, she pointed out that workers in the commercial sector are being paid meagre wages and salaries which are inadequate to meet their needs.

“I call on the Honourable Minister of Labour to put in place systems to make the $60,000 agreed upon by the Tripartite Committee as the new minimum wage for the

Thirty-four-year-old Yuri Garcia Dominguez and his Guyanese wife, 32-year-old Ateeka Ishmael, both of Track A Coldingen, East Coast Demerara (ECD), were on Monday slapped with eight additional charges for allegedly obtaining millions of dollars by false pretence.

The couple is said to be the principals of Accelerated Capital Firm Inc (ACFI), a company under investigation for a huge Ponzi scheme.

The duo appeared be fore Magistrate Marissa Mettelholzer at the Mahaica Magistrate’s Court on Monday and was further remanded to prison.

The police stated that between May and July 2020, with intent to commit a felony, they conspired with persons, known and unknown, to obtain a total sum of $7 million from seven persons under false pretence.

They will return to court on September 18, 2020.

Already, the couple is facing close to 60 charges alleging that they swindled persons of in excess of $197 million. While they were granted bail in excess of $27.8 million on 53 of the charges, they were rePrivate Sector employees,” she urged.

Last year, the Tripartite Committee had begun discus sions with the aim of raising the Private Sector minimum wage to $60,000. However, meetings of the Committee had stalled and no firm deci sion was made as to how to proceed.

The Private Sector’s mini mum wage has not increased since 2017 when it was raised from the monthly wage of $35,000 to $44,200. On the other hand, the minimum wage in the public sector cur rently stands at $70,000.

Last month, Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton had assured the media that the Tripartite Committee would be meeting to continue discussions to increase the minimum wage in the Private Sector.

Fresh air

Government Member of Parliament, Seepaul Narine, another first-time parlia mentarian, meanwhile waded into the previous APNU/ AFC Administration over its management of the country during the last five years, par ticularly in relation to its handling of the sugar sector.

Narine, who serves as the General Secretary of the Guyana Agriculture and General Workers’ Union (GAWU), said that this year’s budget was like “a breath of fresh air” for many Guyanese since it seeks to reverse the backward, anti-development policies that the previous Administration had implemented.

“Budget 2020 marks the first step in the journey to re verse the vampire-like policies that plagued our nation over the last five years when manded to prison in relation to the others. Their lawyers are Glen Hanoman and Dexter Todd.

Dominguez had claimed that monies collected from Guyanese investors are stored in offshore accounts in several foreign jurisdictions, including Belize, the United States, and Germany.

ACFI, in a statement, had said funds are available in its Bitcoin Wallet to refund inves tors, and asked for authorities to allow them to reopen a bank account to be able to issue the reimbursements.

Attorney General Anil

MP Coretta McDonald

the coalition spared no one, except themselves,” Narine posited.

He reminded that during the APNU/AFC’s tenure in office, “many poor Guyanese faced troubled times to put meals on the table and could not get jobs…and many of their gains were sucked away by the coalition Government.”

Meanwhile, Government MP Sanjeev Datadin used a portion of his maiden speech to hold the former Government accountable for the erosion of the rule of law, during the five months in which they refused to concede their electoral loss. He also noted that almost half of the budget will be used to cover the expenses the former Government racked up before they demitted office.

“The last time this House considered a budget, was 2018. In excess of $160 bil lion of this present budget, is to pay all of that expenditure that took place from January 1 to August 2nd, without any parliamentary oversight, without any oversight whatsoever!” Datadin informed the

“Ponzi scheme” couple slapped with 8 additional charges

Yuri Garcia Dominguez and his wife, Ateeka Ishmael

House. Nandlall had written to his lawyers indicating that the Government is willing to facilitate that request so that Guyanese can get back their money. But Guyanese authorities said they have found no monies in bank accounts in Belize belonging to the ACFI principals.

This is according to the multi-stakeholder group, headed by Nandlall, established by the Government of Guyana to investigate the allegations of fraud and other criminal activities connected to the alleged illegal pyramid scheme.

Dismissed sugar workers anxiously await re-opening of estates – GAWU

Agricultural and General Workers’ Union (GAWU) said it has recognised that President Dr Irfaan Ali’s one-monthold Administration has hit the ground running and is working assiduously on delivering its campaign promises.

In fact, GAWU reminded that one of the Administration’s foremost commitments was to reopen the closed Skeldon, Rose Hall and Enmore Estates which were shuttered by APNU/AFC at the end of 2017.

Even prior to his election, the body reminded that President Ali had admitted that it was very difficult to resuscitate Wales Estate which was closed in 2016 as the estate’s factory has largely been dismantled and what remains is a shell. Notwithstanding this, it said that it recognises the President’s commitment to establish a Wales Development Authority aimed at creating new economic ventures in the communities linked to the former sugar estate.

In terms of Skeldon, Rose Hall and Enmore Estates, GAWU said it was heartened to learn from no lesser than the President himself that he remains not only committed to re-opening the estates but resuscitating and rebuilding the entire sugar industry.

“This commitment was reiterated to our Union when we engaged Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha not too long ago. It is no secret that the coalition treated the industry as a castaway. We contend that the former Government had one intention and that was to weaken the industry to the point of collapse. We do not believe that our claim is outlandish as we saw just a few weeks ago former President David Granger ignoring a request from GuySuCo for a lifeline. Mr Granger only acted when the GuySuCo’s plea became public and, in our view, he and his Government had every intention of causing the industry to grind to a halt.”

GAWU, however, noted that it is aware that special management teams, led by experienced sugar administrators, have been installed at the closed estates, and understands that the teams are currently evaluating the state of the factories and cultivations. According to GAWU, the estates have been virtually abandoned for nearly three years now as the former Administration’s plans to keep the estates operable until their planned divestment fell through.

It said that the resuscitation of these estates will not come easily nor cheaply but we believe the investment is worthwhile. In this regard, GAWU noted further that it recognised that the 2020 National Budget has earmarked funds to be channelled into three estates to begin rehabilitation works.

“Of course, the resumption of operations is most eagerly anticipated by the thousands of workers who were put on the breadline. For many of those workers, the last three years have been the most difficult of their lives. Many of them were forced to entertain thoughts they probably never did before. They had to wonder many days how they would eat, or how to pay their bills or send their children to school.”

“Many of the little pleasures of life they enjoyed while they were employed became figments of their imagination. Their communities were equally impacted and the shop owners, market vendors, fishermen, bus and taxi operators who depended on the workers were severely impacted. The communities were described as having their lives sucked out from them and gloom became the new normal.”

GAWU revealed that a socio-economic study which was commissioned by the ILO, arising from GAWU’s representation after the former Government bluntly refused to conduct such an important assessment, demonstrated the direness of the situation the workers and their communities are facing.

The report which is presently being finalised has

Wales Sugar Estate

made startling and revealing findings.

“While, at this time, we are not allowed to use the data pending the report’s release by the ILO, we have been able to examine some of the findings and have recognised the sad realities facing the former sugar workers. We are hopeful soon we can be able to speak in a fuller manner from the report.”

It is in this context that the GAWU welcomes and fully supports the re-opening of the estates. The Union said it had long recognised the dreadful realities found by the study and warned the APNU/AFC. But

Enmore Sugar Estate

that Government, it added, remained deaf to the Union and workers’ calls and shut the estates down without a second thought.

The Union highlighted that at this time, many workers are looking forward to resuming employment and seeking to put their lives back together. For some, unfortunately, it said life cannot go back to the way it once was. Moreover, the Union remains hopeful that children who were forced to leave school can resume their learning and realise their dreams and aspirations.

“Indeed, the workers, we believe, have come to cherish their jobs even more dearly and have experienced firsthand the heartlessness of the coalition. As work begins to accelerate on the closed estates, the GAWU is willing to lend its experience and expertise and to play an active role in ensure that the re-opened estates are able to efficient and productively operated. Moreover, we see the need for a similar emphasis on the currently operable – Albion, Blairmont and Uitvlugt Estates,” the Union said in a media release.

“We recognise that those estates, despite all the fanfare from the coalition when it was in power, have also been ignored. Those estates are also at their lowest ebb and require focused attention. On this score, we have been informed about plans to install soon a new Board of Directors and to review the current management of the State-owned Corporation. This we see as a positive step but hold too that the contributions of the workers, who were badly battered by the APNU/AFC, should not be ignored.”

The statement continued, “Currently, the workforce is demotivated having seen many of their benefits

Skeldon Sugar Estate

The Guyana

just ignored or cast aside and there is a meaningful need to address this sad situation. Indeed, we contend the workers play the most critical role and their input should not be disregarded.”

With renewed focus and a commitment to the sugar industry’s turnaround and sustainability, GAWU is excited to see what the future will bring. As a responsible and significant stakeholder, it pointed out that it will continue to play a proactive role in those efforts.

“We believe that sugar’s best days are still ahead and many opportunities exist for a secured future. The GAWU holds there is

Rose Hall Sugar Estate

no need to re-invent the wheel but to grasp at the available opportunities, creatively and innovatively. We believe with capable management, a supportive shareholder and a motivated workforce, the industry can reach new heights and play an even more meaningful role in our nation.”

18 TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2020 Regional

No return to school in Venezuela until at least 2021

Venezuelan President ly to be much higher. Nicolás Maduro anMeanwhile, Venezuela’s nounced on Sunday chief prosecutor Tarek that schools would not reSaab on Monday announced open until 2021 at the earcharges of terrorism and liest. weapons trafficking against "It's not helpful for the an alleged US “spy” who control of the pandemic," was detained last week in Maduro said about face-tothe South American counface classes, which had been try. due to resume this month. Saab said the US citi

He said teaching would zen, Matthew John Heath, be moved online and lessons was plotting attacks against would also be broadcast on a Venezuela’s oil industry State TV channel. and electricity system. The

But many parents country, mired in a six-year have warned that with economic crisis, is currently Venezuela's Internet speed Children will not return to school this year experiencing fuel shortages one of the slowest in Latin due to a collapse in output America, further interruptcast on State channels will es of coronavirus – a much from its oil refineries as well ed by frequent power cuts, be used by the socialist lower figure than its neighas US sanctions. neither online nor TV classGovernment to "indoctribours Colombia and Brazil The US State es are a viable alternative. nate" children. – but health workers say a Department had no immedi

Critics of Maduro also Venezuela has more lack of widespread testing ate comment. (Excerpts from say they fear lessons broadthan 60,000 confirmed casmeans the real figure is likeBBC News and Reuters)

Barbados Met Office: Busy Atlantic Basin, but no threat

Ba r b a d o s no immediate threat to the United States. 2020 Atlantic Hurricane M e t e o r o l o g i c a l Barbados. Tropical Storm Teddy Season, Vicky is expectServices said on A bulletin said was located near 12.8 N ed to be short-lived, while Monday the Atlantic Basin Hurricane Paulette is pres42.8 W. Teddy is moving toRene continues to maintain is a hive of tropical cyclone ently affecting Bermuda; wards the west near 22 kitropical depression status. activity with one hurrimeanwhile Tropical Storm lometres per hour (14 miles Based on the current cane, three tropical storms, Sally is expected to beper hour), and a turn tolocations and forecast and one tropical deprescome a hurricane later on ward the northwest is foretracks, these systems pose sion. Monday as it approaches cast by Wednesday. The no threat to Barbados.

However, there is the coast of Alabama, in 20th named storm of the (Excerpt from Nation News)

Peru's Vizcarra blames lies, betrayal for turmoil as Government sues to block impeachment

Peruvian President to downplay his ties to the Martín Vizcarra on performer. Monday said that Peru’s Government filed “delusional lies” are at the a lawsuit with the country’s heart of the political turmoil top court earlier on Monday the Andean copper-producin a bid to hold up impeaching country is experiencing ment proceedings. as the Government fights The potential ouster apto block impeachment propeared to lose steam over ceedings against him. the weekend, however, af

Vizcarra, who is due ter several political leaders to finish his term in 10 came out against it, saying months, said in a televised it would spark further turmessage that the crisis was triggered by a confidant’s betrayal and a fragPeruvian President Martin Vizcarra attends a swearing-in ceremony at the Government palace in Lima, Peru, October 3, 2019 moil with Peru already facing its deepest recession in decades and the coronavimented Congress that was whom I trusted, not from lar hiring of a little-known rus pandemic. seeking to destabilise the now but from years ago, singer who goes as “Richard Luis Huerta, a lawyer Government. has created this situation Swing”. for the Justice Ministry

“I must tell Peruvians ... without any foundation,” The scandal broke afwho presented the lawthat what is happening here he added. ter leaked audio recordings suit, said the Government’s is the betrayal of someone Lawmakers voted last were shared in Congress by move aimed to “temporarclose to me,” said Vizcarra. week to impeach Vizcarra, Opposition lawmakers of ily suspend” the impeach

“I have to deeply rewho has no party repreVizcarra discussing meetment process while the gret and apologise to the sentation in Congress, due ings with the singer. Some Constitutional Court looked country, because a person to “moral incapacity” in a lawmakers alleged the reinto the matter. (Excerpt from the presidential office case of the alleged irregucordings showed him trying from Reuters)

Paraguayans call for release of kidnapped ex-VP

Hundreds of cars joined a protest caravan in Paraguay on Sunday to demand the release of former Vice President Óscar Denis.

Denis, 74, was kidnapped along with one of his employees on Wednesday by members of the Marxist Paraguayan People's Army (EPP) rebel group.

The EPP wants the Government to free two of their jailed leaders in return for Denis's release.

A deadline set by the rebels for the Government to free the two has expired.

In a pamphlet, the EPP said it would give the Government until 22:00 local time on Sunday (02:00GMT) to release Carmen Villalba and Alcides Oviedo.

Villalba and Oviedo were sentenced earlier this year for the attempted murder of three Police Officers during a foiled jailbreak in 2004. They were both already serving long sentences for kidnapping.

Paraguayan Interior Minister Euclides Acevedo earlier said that the State would not enter into negotiations about "matters of public security". (Excerpt from BBC News)

Brazil registers 15,155 new coronavirus cases

People enjoy Ipanema beach amid the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, September 13, 2020

Brazil registered ness, drowsiness, increasing 15,115 new casfatigue, chills, chest pain or es of coronavirus on discomfort and fever. Monday, totalling 4,345,610, She said physicians were the Health Ministry said. calling patients twice a day Deaths rose by 381 to 131, to monitor their symptoms 625. and appealed to patients to

Barbados has recorded be truthful. 183 cases and seven deaths, “Not because you’re comprising 96 women and home means that you could 87 men after completing 20, wander around the house 121 tests. and mingle with family

Meanwhile in Trinidad, members. Ensure spaces which has suffered 3091 casare well ventilated and don’t es and 54 deaths, County run the a/c. Limit the numMedical Officer of Health ber of caretakers – and idefor Caron, Dr Jeanine ally they should be someone St Bernard said some who’s in good health with no COVID-19 patients who are pre-existing conditions. sequestered at home contin"Visitors should not be ue to downplay their sympallowed in the home until toms to avoid being hospitalpatients have been released ised. from isolation.”

She said this was a danSt Bernard said patients gerous practice and pleaded who are asymptomatic or with patients not to do this. mildly symptomatic should

Speaking at Monday’s not think because they feel media conference, St well, they should be cleaning Bernard outlined the signs or taking on household projand symptoms which could ects. She said they should accompany a rapid decline. rest and remain hydrat

These include shortness ed. (Reuters and Trinidad of breath, headaches, dizziNewsday)

Warner released from hospital

The embattled foris my social and legal remer Vice President sponsibility to do so, but of the International because the discomfort, the Football Federation isolation and the pain that (FIFA), Austin Jack one goes through is not an Warner was released from experience that anyone a hospital where he had will wish for another,” said been receiving medical care Warner, who also served as for the novel coronavirus a Government Minister in (COVID-19). Trinidad and was unsuc

“The worst part is cessful in winning a seat over, but the journey back in the August 10 General to good health is incomElection. plete,” said the 77-year-old Warner, who is on Warner, who is also facing TT$2.5 million bail on the extradition to the United charges of fraud, racketeerStates on charges linked to ing and money laundering, his role as a senior global also indicated in his statefootball official. ment that he would remain

Warner had been hospi“in the shadows away from talised since September 2 media contact”. and said he was under strict “And this is not because instructions to self-quaranof any disrespect to this tine until September 24. profession to which I have

“I will also be called grown to love, but rather to from time to time by the allow me to recover undisrelevant official in the turbed. I would truly wish Ministry of Health so as that my request for silence to ensure that I comply during this period is rewith all the post-hospital spected. COVID-19 protocols. “Let me, first of all,

“This was not a good thank God for this second road trip and I will be folchance and for his mercy in lowing the medical guideallowing me to unite with lines to the dot and to the my family. . . ,” Warner tittle not simply because it added. (CMC)

OILNEWS

Oil market sentiment shifts as supply concerns mount

Oil markets are spiralling downwards as bearish factors mount and sentiment shifts.

One of these factors is the concerns over rising exports from the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting States and its allies in Q3, with the possibility of a total breakdown of the OPEC+ agreement.

Another factor is the possibility of a Joe Biden election victory in the US, which could lead to the lifting of sanctions on Iran and the removal of restrictions on Iranian crude oil exports. Biden is ahead of Donald Trump in most national polls. Furthermore, the market has been weighed down by concerns that oil demand recovery is slowing due to a resurgence of coronavirus infections globally. COVID-19 cases are rebounding in the United Kingdom and France, with the number of daily cases reported exceeding 3000 in the UK and 10,000 in France. The uptick in cases has increased the likelihood of another lockdown being implemented across Europe. With increasing crude stocks and low refinery runs signalling weak demand, the markets are expected to remain under pressure.

Last Friday, Brent closed at US$39.83, down by 6.63 per cent, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) closed at US$37.33, down by 6.14 per cent. Money managers reduced their net long positions by 57.39 million barrels in WTI contracts to stand at 269.49 million barrels while reducing net long positions in Brent contracts by 67.31 million barrels to stand at 121.17 million barrels. It seems that poor fundamentals are now having a significant impact on market sentiment. (Excerpt from oilprice.com)

Hotel Rwanda hero charged with terrorism

The man portrayed as Kagame and had been living a hero in a Hollywood abroad. movie about the An ethnic Hutu, he beRwandan genocide has been came well known after the charged with terrorism, 2004 film “Hotel Rwanda” murder, and other crimes. depicted his efforts a decade

Paul Rusesabagina deearlier during the genocide clined to enter any pleas in to save hundreds of Tutsis court, but his lawyers denied at a hotel where he was a the charges against him. manager.

Rusesabagina is the leadRusesabagina's family aler of the opposition MRCD lege the political exile was group which is said to have kidnapped in Dubai earlian armed wing, the FLN, er this month and taken to which stages attacks on Rwanda. Rwanda. President Kagame's crit

He was brought to the ics accuse him of not toleratcourt under heavy security ing any opposition. Kagame in Rwanda's capital, Kigali. says he is trying to prevent

Rusesabagina is a fierce a return of ethnic hatred. critic of President Paul (Excerpt from BBC News)

UK's Johnson says plan to break Brexit treaty needed to counter EU's “revolver”

British Prime Minister plan would wreck trade Boris Johnson said talks and propel the United on Monday a bill that Kingdom towards a messy would break internationBrexit. al law by breaching parts As Britain’s House of of the Brexit divorce deal Commons began debating was needed, because the the Internal Market Bill, European Union had not which the EU has demandtaken a “revolver off the taed London scraps by the end ble” in trade talks. of September, Johnson said

Johnson accuses the EU the bloc had shown in talks of threatening to use the it was prepared to go to exwithdrawal treaty agreed treme and unreasonable in January to put up trade lengths. barriers between mainHe said the bill would land Britain and Northern stop the EU using part of Ireland, and even to impose the Brexit divorce deal rea food blockade, the latest lating to Northern Ireland brinkmanship of a four-year as leverage by threatening saga since Britain voted narto block exports from elserowly to leave the bloc. where in the UK to the prov

The EU says Johnson’s ince. (Excerpt from Reuters)

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2020 19 Around the World

Climate row as Trump visits fire-hit US West Coast

Democratic politisoutherly winds and low cians on the US humidity forecast for West Coast have Monday could bring an elaccused President Donald evated fire risk, and potenTrump of being in denial tially have an impact on the about climate change's role North Complex Fire, which in the huge wildfires there, has scorched 106,000 hectas he visits California. ares and is only 26 per cent

Blazes in California, contained. Oregon, and Washington The US National state have burned almost Weather Service also istwo million hectares (5m sued a "red flag warning" acres) of land and killed at for other areas of the West least 35 people since early Authorities in California, where 24 people have died since August Coast, including Jackson August. 15, report that firefighters are working to contain 29 major County, Oregon, where the

Washington's Governor wildfires across the state Almeda Fire has destroyed called climate change a hundreds of homes. "blowtorch over our states". Sacramento, in the centre candidate Joe Biden acThe Oregon Office of

Climate change sceptic of the state. cused Trump of being a Emergency Management Trump blames the crisis on Dismissing one official's "climate arsonist" and told said on Sunday that firepoor forest management. plea to not "ignore the scian event in Delaware that fighters in the state were

The President repeated ence", Trump said: "It'll four more years of his opstruggling to contain more that argument as he met start getting cooler, you ponent in the White House than 30 active wildfires – Californian officials injust watch... I don't think would see "more of America the largest of which was volved in the battle against science knows actually." ablaze". more than 89 kilometres the wildfires at a stop Earlier on Monday, Authorities in California (55 miles) wide. (Excerpt in McClellan Park near Democratic presidential warned that the strong from BBC News)

Xinjiang: US to block some exports from Chinese region

The United States est by the Donald Trump one million people from essary to combat terrorist has ordered borAdministration to put Xinjiang, citing security and separatist threats. der officials to block pressure on China over risks. Washington and Beijing shipments of clothing, its treatment of Xinjiang's It has said its prohave repeatedly clashed computer parts and other Uighur Muslims. grammes, which have inover the practices, with products made at select loThe US said the sites use cluded transferring dethe US accusing the councations in China's Xinjiang forced or prison labour. tainees to manufacturing try of human rights abusregion. China is believed to sites, provide job training es. (Excerpt from BBC

The move is the lathave detained more than and education and are necNews)

Potential sign of alien life detected on inhospitable Venus

Scientists said on scope in Chile. Monday they have de“I was very surprised – tected in the harshly stunned, in fact,” said asacidic clouds of Venus a gas tronomer Jane Greaves of called phosphine that indiCardiff University in Wales, cates microbes may inhabit lead author of the research Earth’s inhospitable neighpublished in the journal bour, a tantalising sign of Nature Astronomy. potential life beyond Earth. The existence of extra-ter

The researchers did not restrial life long has been discover actual life forms, one of the paramount quesbut noted that on Earth tions of science. Scientists phosphine is produced by have used probes and telebacteria thriving in oxyscopes to seek “biosignagen-starved environments. tures” – indirect signs of Data from NASA's Magellan spacecraft and Pioneer Venus Orbiter The international scienlife – on other planets and is used in an undated composite image of the planet Venus. tific team first spotted the moons in our solar system NASA/JPL-Caltech/Handout via REUTERS. phosphine using the James and beyond. Clerk Maxwell Telescope “With what we currentMassachusetts Institute of atom with three hydrogen in Hawaii and confirmed it ly know of Venus, the most Technology molecular astroatoms attached – is highusing the Atacama Large plausible explanation for physicist and study co-auly toxic to people. (Excerpt Millimeter/submillimeter phosphine, as fantastical as thor Clara Sousa-Silva. from Reuters) Array (ALMA) radio teleit might sound, is life,” said Phosphine – a phosphorus

Pandemic panel condemns global failure to heed COVID-19 warnings

Acollective failure by by the World Bank and the global economy. COVID-19 has proven the political leaders to World Health Organisation This year's report – entipoint." heed warnings and (WHO), is chaired by former tled "A World in Disorder" – Meanwhile, according to prepare for an infectious WHO Director General Gro said world leaders had never the BBC News, a new antidisease pandemic has transHarlem Brundtland, who before "been so clearly forebody treatment is to be triformed "a world at risk" into now also chairs an indepenwarned of the dangers of a alled on COVID-19 patients a "world in disorder", acdent watchdog that monidevastating pandemic", and in UK hospitals. cording to a new report on tors the WHO. yet they had failed to take Monoclonal antibodies, international epidemic preThe board's 2019 report, adequate action. which are potent, laboraparedness. released a few months beThe COVID-19 pandemtory-made antibodies, will "Financial and political fore the novel coronaviic has exposed "a collective be given to about 2000 peoinvestments in preparedrus emerged in China, said failure to take pandemic ple to see if they are effecness have been insufficient, there was a real threat of "a prevention, preparedness tive against coronavirus. and we are all paying the rapidly spreading pandemand response seriously and There have been 29.11 milprice," said the report by ic due to a lethal respiratory prioritise it accordingly", it lion COVID-19 cases and The Global Preparedness pathogen" and warned such said. 924,141 deaths worldwide. Monitoring Board (GPMB). an event could kill millions "Pathogens thrive in (Excerpts from BBC News

The GPMB, co-convened and wreak havoc on the disruption and disorder. and Al Jazeera)

ARCHIE

DILBERT

PEANUTS

CALVIN AND HOBBES

SUDOKU

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

ARIES (March 21- April 19)

TAURUS

(April 20- May 20)

GEMINI (May 21- June 20)

CANCER (June 21-

July 22)

LEO (July 23-

Aug. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23-

Sept. 22)

LIBRA (Sept. 23-

Oct. 23)

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-

Nov. 22) SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-

Dec. 21) (Dec. 22-

Jan. 19) AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-

Feb. 19)

PISCES (Feb. 20-

March 20)

Do something that will boost your morale or help you bring about positive physical change. Start a new fitness routine or diet that will help you build strength and ward off illness.

Aim to please, but not at your own expense. Offer kindness and compassion, not your cash. If the advice you offer comes from the heart, it will be well-received. Hard work will pay off.

Inconsistency is appar- ent. Ask questions, and be precise to avoid a misun- derstanding. Emotions will flare if someone doesn’t give you accurate information. Proceed with caution, and

stick to the truth.

You’ll stumble across valuable information through conversations with friends, relatives or colleagues. Be open to suggestions, but keep an eye on your wallet.

You must get things right the first time if you wish to avoid criticism or complaints. A change someone makes will leave you in an awkward position. Be prepared to pro- ceed on your own. Romance is featured.

As information un- folds, you will have second and third thoughts. Listen, assess and think things through before you change directions or commit to something uncertain.

Listen to your inner voice and make your move. Let your emotions take charge and the world know how you feel. Saying what’s on your mind will help you discover the best path to take. Don’t fold under pressure.

Protect your reputation. Think innovatively, and make adjustments that will protect your safety, well-being and important relationships. You

CAPRICORN

can get things done today.

Keep moving forward. Refuse to let anyone come between you and your goal. Stay on top of new technolo- gy and any economic chang- es that might jeopardize your financial standing. Avoid impulsive moves.

It’s time to make a move. Look over your finances, and you’ll find a way to improve your current situation. Let your gut feeling lead you to se-

curity and long-term success.

Sit tight, be an observer and plan how best to move for- ward when the time is right. You can make personal im- provements if you pool your resources with a loved one.

Speak the truth and clear the air. Focus on build- ing strong unions with the people who are most likely to have your back. Someone from your past will offer in- sight into a confusing situa- tion.

QPCC hails 13 players after CPL exploits

The management, staff and members of the Queen’s Park Cricket Club (QPCC) have extended sincerest congratulations to skipper Kieron Pollard and the entire Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) squad on their resounding victory in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) final against a very plucky St Lucia Zouks outfit on Thursday. TKR won by eight wickets.

The professionalism and organisation exhibited by the TKR players throughout the tournament were exemplary. By winning all 12 games during the tournament, they achieved what no other franchise team has been able to do since the inception of the CPL. It took good planning, determination, commitment and total concentration from a welloiled unit during a difficult tournament in difficult times.

Queen’s Park Cricket Club is also extremely

Nicholas Pooran

proud of the fact that it had nine players (Kieron Pollard, Dwayne and Darren Bravo, Sunil Narine, Akeal Hosein, Khary Pierre, Anderson Phillip, Tion Webster and Jayden Seales) and three officials (Colin

Kieron Pollard

Borde, Imran Jan and Kevon Cooper) representing the winning franchise TKR.

In addition, the club singled out four more of its players: Joshua da Silva and Jon Russ Jaggessar with St Kitts and Nevis Patriots, and Nicholas Pooran and Kissoondath Magram with the Guyana Amazon Warriors. A total of 13 players and three officials from QPCC -- a feat which no other Caribbean club has matched in the history of the CPL.

“Special congratulations should also go out to Nicholas Pooran on being the only centurion of the tournament. To Dwayne Bravo on his remarkable achievements of capturing 500 T20 and 100 CPL wickets in his career and to skipper Pollard on playing in 500 T20 games,” the club said.

“We also wish to thank our hard-working ground staff and maintenance staff for a wonderful job under trying and tough circumstances given the weather and the bio-secure arrangements in which the tournament was played.

“It is indeed gratifying that the TKR and the CPL have somewhat lifted the doom and gloom during this pandemic and have made us all smile.” (TT Guardian)

Breonna Taylor: Lewis Hamilton could face FIA investigation over anti-racism T-shirt

Formula 1 bosses are looking into whether Lewis Hamilton broke rules at the Tuscan Grand Prix by wearing a T-shirt highlighting Police brutality.

A spokesman for the FIA said the matter was “under active consideration”.

He said the FIA was a non-political organisation and was considering if Hamilton’s T-shirt broke its statutes.

The T-shirt said: “Arrest the cops who killed Breonna Taylor” – a black woman shot eight times in her Louisville, Kentucky home by US Police in March.

Hamilton’s shirt, which he wore during the prerace anti-racism demonstration and on the podium, also said: “Say her name.”

It was not immediately clear which statute from governing body FIA was at issue.

Asked whether the FIA considered the T-shirt to be bearing a political message, the spokesman said: “That’s the consideration we are looking into.”

Taylor was one of a number of victims of incidents involving Police violence in the US whose names have become rallying cries for equality and justice.

Hamilton said after winning the race on Sunday: “I’ve been wanting to bring awareness to the fact there are people being killed on the street.

“And someone was killed in her own house and they were in the wrong house and those guys are still walking free.”

F1 and the FIA have mounted an anti-racism and pro-diversity campaign this year, which includes anti-racism demonstrations before every race.

Hamilton has been at the centre of the demonstrations, as the sport’s most high-profile figure and its only black driver.

The spokesman said that the FIA had been working with Hamilton on its diversity programme this year.

Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff said on Saturday that Hamilton had the organisation’s full support in his desire to highlight racial injustice and that it was up to him what T-shirts he wished to wear to demonstrate that.

Wolff said: “No question – it is entirely his decision. Whatever he does, we will support.

“The team is fighting against any kind of racism and discrimination and it is Lewis’s personal fight for Black Lives Matter and with all the support we can give him. It’s his call.”

Wolff added: “Black Lives Matter is something that is important to all of us and we have supported Lewis all the way.

“The much broader movement is obviously the fight against any kind of racism and discrimination – and we as a team and as a corporate have always put an emphasis to fight against that injustice.”

The only reference to politics in the statutes is a requirement on the FIA to “refrain from manifesting discrimination on account of race, skin colour, gender, sexual orientation, ethnic or social origin, language, religion, philosophical or political opinion, family situation or disability in the course of its activities”.

The sporting code forbids competitors from “affixing to their automobiles advertising that is political or religious in nature or that is prejudicial to the interests of the FIA”. (BBC Sport)

Jofra Archer fires back at Holding and insists England cricket supports BLM

Jofra Archer insists England have not can happen to them. I had one the other forgotten the spirit of the Black Lives day, the guy blamed it on being drunk. Matter movement and that Michael “I think I’m strong enough to deal with it, Holding had not done his research when but what happens when they start targeting criticising the team’s decision to stop taking someone who isn’t as mentally strong and a knee. it starts affecting them? We’ve got to try

Holding, the prominent Sky pundit, and stamp it out as much as possible now.” accused England’s players of abandoning These are weighty subjects for a the pre-match gesture “as soon as West cricketer to deal with so early in their Indies went home”, and questioned international career, but the 25-year-old whether they had simply “jumped on the appears unburdened at present, certainly if bandwagon” when doing so previously. his role in Sunday’s dramatic 24-run victory

But Archer, speaking the day after he and over Australia is anything to go by. Chris Woakes scorched through Australia to The right-armer vaporised David Warner set up Wednesday’s One-Day International and Marcus Stoinis with the new ball, (ODI) series-decider, has spoken to Tom struck Aaron Finch twice with bouncers and Harrison, the England and Wales Cricket was one half of the incendiary mid-innings Board (ECB) chief executive, and burst with Woakes that is confident the sport’s response knocked over four of is not over. the tourists in 21 balls to

Archer said: “I’m pretty sure set up another chapter Michael Holding doesn’t know in England’s recent anything that is going on behind catalogue of fightbacks. the scenes. I don’t think he has Archer has 29 wickets spoken to Tom Harrison. It is from his first 16 ODI caps a bit harsh for Mikey to not do – only Jimmy Anderson, some research before criticising. with 30, boasted more

“I’ve spoken to Tom and for England after that we have stuff running in number of matches – the background. We’ve not and he continues to forgotten, no one here has deliver for his captain, forgotten about Black Lives Eoin Morgan. Having a Matter.” Harrison admitted in July Michael Holding clearly defined role, one dictated by the format’s that English cricket had to face restrictions, helps no end. up to a “very difficult set of truths” and Joe Root seems chiefly interested in among the actions referenced by Archer deploying him in a third-seamer-cumis the introduction of a formal game-wide enforcer role but Archer, who remains keen anti-discrimination code that, somewhat to utilise his array of skills, has once again belatedly, gives the governing body the reminded his Test Captain – and the wider power to police all levels of the sport. commentariat – that 90mph is not easy to

The ECB, which currently has an allsustain over the course of five days. white Board of Directors at the top, has also He said: “The time I spend bowling pledged to increase diversity across the with the white ball is a lot less than in Test sport’s leadership positions and introduce cricket. You can’t run [hard] in the whole a raft of new education programmes, day. It is impossible to run in the whole bursaries, and projects similar to Surrey’s day bowling at 90mph. If you can show me ACE scheme that opens opportunities to someone who does it then fair play. But I’ve the African-Caribbean community. not seen any bowler who bowls 90mph do

Holding, in response, told ESPNcricinfo: it for a whole day.” “Taking a knee does not prevent other No player has spent more time in the action from taking place. Those who take bio-secure environment than Archer’s 87 a knee are not substituting the gesture days and having been hit with a fine and lost for other positive action. Nobody should a Test cap for an unsanctioned trip home have a problem with it. It is a worldwide during the West Indies series, he said it has recognition of calling attention to racial been a “mentally-challenging” experience. prejudice and injustice.” “I’m not sure how many bubbles I have left

Archer has had to deal with racist abuse in me this year.” during his 18-month international career There is at least still one to negotiate, – on social media and in person, after with Archer among a contingent of English reporting one spectator in New Zealand and Australian players who fly out on last year – and questioned whether the a chartered plane to the United Arab deterrents go far enough. He said then: Emirates after Wednesday’s game to play in “People can be prosecuted a bit easier, but the Indian Premier League, which ends on it might have to go a bit further because November 10. ( The Guardian) some people still aren’t worried about what

West Indies Women return to action with 1st practice match

After two weeks of inThe 18 players were dione more practice match on tense training since vided into two squads capWednesday before the start arriving in Derby for tained by Stafanie Taylor of the series on Monday, the Sandals West Indies and Deandra Dottin. September 21 at the Incora Women’s Tour of England Taylor’s team took first County Ground. 2020, the West Indies strike and posted 131-6 Full Squad: Stafanie Women played their first from their 20 overs, with an Taylor, Deandra Dottin, practice match. unbeaten knock of 71 from Shemaine Campbelle, Afy

The team are increas52 balls from the Captain, Fletcher, Hayley Matthews, ing preparations ahead of which included nine fours, Shamilia Connell, Britney the five-match Vitality T20 followed by 24 from Britney Cooper, Chedean Nation,

Andre Russell

Rank: 1

When the history of T20 cricket is written, Andre Russell will deserve a tome to himself, with a few chapters devoted only to his batting. In T20 cricket, there isn’t another player like him. Kieron Pollard may come close, but in the Indian Premier League (IPL) nobody can touch Russell.

And data only corroborates what fans intuitively understand about Russell’s impact on matches. Has Russell got runs against the opposition’s best bowler? Has he bowled with an economy rate of less than nine in a match where both teams made 200? Has he had to chase down 50 in the last three overs more than once?

ESPNcricinfo’s Smart Stats runs on an evolved algorithm capturing a T20 game’s every dynamic movement, ball by ball, and it tells us that out of the 64 games he has played in the IPL, Russell has had the top impact value in 17. He is the most impactful performer once every 3.8 matches, 25 per cent better than the second-placed Chris Gayle, who achieves the same every 5.1 matches (among players who have played at least 60 IPL games). Among the elite of the elite T20 players, that is a massive margin. In addition, Russell has the highest impact per match in absolute terms too – of any player, active or retired. He has often turned matches around with the bat, although he makes significant contributions with the ball too. And advanced as it is, even our algorithm can’t calculate the errors Russell forces bowlers to make, whether it be extras conceded while trying to perfect the wide yorker or trying to hustle an extra yard of pace. In terms of only batting impact per match, Russell is eighth on the alltime list. Ahead of him are Gayle, David Warner, Rishabh Pant, AB de Villiers, Jos Buttler, Virender Sehwag and Shaun Marsh, each of those a top-order batsman. The median value of when Russell has come in to bat in an IPL game is the 14th over. The next highest non-toporder batsman in this list is Glenn Maxwell, ranked 22.

Is it any wonder that there is a clamour to see him bat higher up the order?

He bowls less often now, but when his knees aren’t troubling him, Russell the bowler is quite a handful too. In one of the highest-scoring matches of the IPL, against Kings XI Punjab in 2018, KKR made 245 for 6 and Kings XI put up a spirited chase, but only managed 214 for 8. Russell made 31 off 14 and took 3 for 41, but look at the s c o r e c a r d and you’ll see some better numbers: Sunil Narine’s 75 off 36 and Dinesh Karthik’s 50 off 23 for KKR. For Punjab, KL Rahul made 66 off 29 and Andrew Tye took 4 for 41. Russell had a solid match, you would think, but measure his total impact on the match and he comes out on top. His bowling impact of 123.79 is only 20 points behind Tye’s and more than double that of the next best bowler in the match, Mohit Sharma (1 for 40) with 59.54. What Smart Stats accounts for is the timing of Russell’s strikes: a double breakthrough when Kings XI had raced to 57 without loss in 5.3 overs, and a further wicket at the end of the eighth over. His first wicket was that of Gayle, one of the few batsmen with the firepower to threaten a tall chase. Russell’s economy of 10.25 isn’t bad in a match where the run rate was 11.47, but when you look at it alongside his wickets, it’s a distinctly superior perforNatasha McLean, Chinelle Henry, Aaliyah Alleyne, LeeAnn Kirby, Sheneta Guyana’s Cherry-Ann Fraser scoops up the return Grimmond, Karishma Shekera Selman with 2-15. as close to a game scenario Gajnabi, Cherry-Ann Dottin led her team well in with this practice match.” Fraser, and Kaysia Schultz. the run-chase as she scored “We split the teams as a quick 41 off 43 deliveries, evenly as possible and some MATCH SCHEDULE but it just wasn’t enough to very promising performancVitality T20I Series hold off the defence from es came out of that. Both Monday, September 21: Team Taylor. Sheneta teams were able to bat the 1st Vitality T20I, England v Grimmond was the pick of full 20-over innings... playWest Indies the bowlers, taking 2-16 folers spent time at the crease Wednesday, September lowed by Shamilia Connell building partnerships. So 23: 2nd Vitality T20I, with 2-23. Team Taylor won that was good to see, and we England v West Indies by eight runs. are happy with how things Saturday, September 26: Speaking after the went. Now it’s just about 3rd Vitality T20I, England match, interim Head Coach fine-tuning and building v West Indies Captain Stafanie Taylor Andre Coley said, “We’ve momentum leading into the Monday, September 28: been here for two weeks doseries next week.” 4th Vitality T20I, England ing a combination of various Since arriving in v West Indies International series against Cooper. Aaliyah Alleyne, skills sessions in the nets, England West Indies Wednesday, September England Women starting on with her pace, was the best strength and conditioning Women have had training 30: 5th Vitality T20I, September 21 at the Incora bowler for Team Dottin, as and game-planning, but tosessions during the quaranEngland v West Indies County Ground. she scalped 3-35 followed by day was our first time to get tine period. They will have

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Andre Russell, the IPL’s most destructive, impactful and valuable player

Ramharack, Shabika

m a n c e . A n d p a i r e d with the morethanu s e f u l batting, it gave Russell the highest overall impact in the match, beating out Tye and Narine, who were great in one discipline but not so much in the other. The impact of Russell’s batting shows up even more starkly on Smart Stats. While KKR lost this 2018 game to Chennai Super Kings, Russell was the dominant star. He came in at 89 for 5 after 10 overs and blasted 88 off 36 balls to drag his team to 202 for 6. His batting impact of 173.04 was off the charts, way higher than that of Player of the Match Sam Billings’ 111.45 points. Russell had a positive impact with the ball too, giving away only 35 runs in four overs in a 200-plus game.

There is a plethora of matches in which Russell’s impact can be seen via Smart Stats. Perhaps that book will in fact go into several volumes. (ESPNcricinfo)

223-7230-1 (Ext 55) NOW!

GCF launches free online chess-in-schools programme with rallying call: “an easy game to learn”

The Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) recently rolled out the free ChessKid online chessin-schools programme in partnership with ChessKid. com based in the USA, to aggressively promote the board game with a rallying call: “Chess is an easy game to learn!”

An underlying important requirement for participants is regular access to the Internet.

With the prevailing risks posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the GCF has shifted its strategy to introduce the game online without faceto-face interaction involving chess tutors and players. The GCF secured a one-year package in August 2020 with ChessKid.com and the company has provided several modules of learning material to the Federation for young newcomers or players already seasoned to junior chess tournaments.

The local Federation is targeting seven to 19-yearold boys and girls who at

The solution to the West I n d i e s Women returning to the Caribbean with a series win against the England Women is dependent on consistency and good batting.

This is according to player Britney Cooper, who engaged media operatives in conference on

Screen grab of first GCF online ChessKid tournament

tend public or private schools. The body is determined to dispel a common myth that the game is difficult to learn and is seeking to generate more interest, especially among the youth. The cost of the ambitious online chess project will amount to approximately US$15,000 per year provided by the World Chess Federation (FIDE). The lo

West Indies Women tour of England

“We have to be a lot more consistent” – Cooper

a virtual press Britney Cooper during the media engagement on Monday cal body is aiming to award Monday morning. sonal goal is: I want to score issue for us; they’ve been

“First of all, I believe we at least two half-centuries gelling really, really good have to be a lot more conif I get the opportunity to with us. We’re excited to see sistent. That’s something play all five games,” she rehow much of an impact they we have fallen short these vealed. will have on us when we past few years. And if we’re Commenting on the step out on the field.” series against English, we team spirit at the moment, As such, the Trinidadian need a lot more partnership Cooper noted that the girls national explained that the and continue to apply preswere coping well and were teams felt so at home that sure whenever we get the eager to get out on the pitch. it would appear as though chance to apply pressure,” “A lot of us have been they were the host team. Cooper said. coping really good. You “I must say, it don’t feel

When probed about her know being in the bubble like we are the away team preferred spot to get some for the past two weeks, a ‘cause we already spent like runs in, Cooper shared that lot of us got accustomed to two weeks here in this bubthat decision would be dethe protocols and stuff like ble. So, England is coming pendent on the technicalithat,” Cooper said. into our home to play us ties of the game at the given She went on to state, right now.” moment. “The mood is very good, all With the entire 18-mem

“Well, obviously we have the girls are probably excitber squad working hard day a lot of openers on the team ed, ready to go out there and in, day out, Cooper is excurrently. We just have to play cricket.” pecting great things when find the right pair, the right With regard to some of the first ball bowls off on time to counter England’s the new faces in the team’s September 21. bowling attack.” management, Cooper com“Since we’ve been here,

The 31-year-old batter mented, “Many of us have we’ve had a lot of practice disclosed that she has some worked with this manageand it shows us the girls personal goals she would ment stuff, probably not have assessed these condilike to achieve as the womon West Indies duties, but tions and getting their form en return to international back home in our individuin order, and I know all of cricket. al countries. So, coming tous are going to peak just at

“Obviously, [we] want to gether, having new manthe right time,” Cooper statwin the series, but my peragement is not really a big ed. ChessKid Gold Membership to at least 1000 players by the end of 2021.

Police youth groups throughout the country are currently being targeted in the promotion of the game.

Cricket West Indies (CWI) announced Monday the extension of its worldwide betting partnership with global sports betting brand, Betway until 2022.

The Betway Group is a leading provider of innovative, entertaining and exciting entertainment across sports betting, casino, bingo and esports betting. Launched in 2006, the company operates across a number of regulated online markets and holds licences in the United Kingdom, Malta, Italy, Denmark, Spain, Belgium, Germany and Ireland. Based in Malta and Guernsey, with support from London, Isle of Man and Cape Town, the Betway team comprises over 1500 people.

The extension will see Betway continue as the Official Betting Partner of CWI, with pitch and broadcast presence at all men’s and women’s international home series matches.

The partnership has been Chess is an ancient board game but has proven its longevity; it is already a regular feature on computers, cellphones, other electronic devices and most of all, the information superhighway, the Internet.

During the GCFcoordinated online programme, players and beginners will be awarded ChessKid Gold Membership based on their participation and use of the resources provided by ChessKid. com. Seasoned players are required to participate in short online tournaments lasting about three hours each and conducted by the chess website every few weeks.

Computerised safeguards are in place by the website to obtain credible results in the competitions. The first local online junior tournament was conducted recently and attracted almost 40 players, nine of whom were female. It was won by 10-year-old Omar Shariff of Mae’s Schools. broadened so that Betway will also become the Official Betting Partner of the Colonial Medical Insurance Super50 Cup, the marquee 50-over tournament in the West Indies. Betway’s partnership will also mean continued support for CWI’s integrity and player education programmes.

“CWI is delighted to extend our relationship with Betway as one of our major partners whose support makes a real difference for the development of international and regional cricket in the West Indies,” said CWI Commercial Director Dominic Warne in welcoming the extended partnership with Betway.

“The partnership demonstrates the appeal of West Indies cricket in terms of media visibility and content, and we are excited that Betway is bringing additional support to the women’s game and the Super50 Cup too.”

Betway Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Anthony The second online tournament held on Saturday, September 12 was won by QC student Omesh Dyal, who hails from Berbice. That competition also attracted a similar number of players, 10 of whom were female.

Participants in the online ChessKid training programme are divided into two groups: those who are already participants in online tournaments and they will be further exposed to training, and secondly, beginners who will first be exposed to the rudiments of the game and will later become further immersed in understanding strategy, tactics, and other techniques.

Interested school representatives or parents can contact Guyana National Arbiter John Lee on 623-0986, Chairman of the Chess-in-Schools Committee, Anand Raghunauth on 681-8771 or message the GCF on Facebook for more informa

CWI, Betway extend betting partnership until 2022

tion. Werkman highlighted the strength of the partnership and outlined why it has been extended.

“Cricket is a hugely popular sport and this deal has been the cornerstone of our entry into the game. We are extremely happy to be extending this deal which will bring us to many more fans throughout the world in conjunction with one of the most prestigious international teams,” he said.

Betway’s initial partnership with CWI started with the international home series between West Indies and Sri Lanka in June 2018 and ran through to the international home series against Ireland in January 2020.

The extended partnership will include all men’s and women’s international home matches in the International Cricket Club (ICC) Future Tours Programme until the end of 2022 as well as the next three editions of the Colonial Medical Insurance Super50 Cup.