Guyana Times -- Wednesday, December 22, 2021

Hearing-impaired community gets free eye tests, spectacles at First Lady’s vision screening

P13

Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana Issue No. 4869

THE BEACON OF TRUTH WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021

Govt announces 2-week tax-free bonus for health sector workers – Pres Ali urges health workers to continue serving country guyanatimesgy.com

See story on page 3

Page 7

Appeal Court rules it has jurisdiction to hear dismissed election petition

– stays decision for 2 weeks; AG says Govt will appeal

Friendship 9-month-old boy man killed among 6 COVID while trying deaths recorded to protect aunt – 35 new cases detected in 24h Former PNCR Leader Granger congratulates Norton Page 10

PRICE

$100 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

13-year-old P10 dead, family members critical after consuming suspected poison

CANU intercepts $1M worth of “poppy” P2

Mother of P12 6 gets new home in time for Christmas

CANU finds more than $13M in P2 cocaine during Campbellville operation

Page 14

Page 17

– PSC hopeful Norton will lead a responsible, vibrant Opposition

Region 2 P12 residents receive cash grants to start businesses

2 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

CANU finds more than $13M in cocaine during Campbellville operation T

he Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) has found 2.374 kilograms of cocaine, worth more than $13 million, during an operation on Monday at Austin Street, Campbellville, Georgetown.

According to information received, the agents of CANU, acting on information received, carried out a narcotics operation between Austin Street and Durey Lane in Campbellville, during which they observed a man fitting the description of a person of interest. As such, the officers identified themselves and attempted to question him, but he attempted to escape. He was, however, apprehended, but not before crashing his bicycle into a parked vehicle.

During a search carried out on his person and belongings, a brick-like object suspected to be cocaine was

The cocaine that was found during the operation

found in a bag he was carrying. He was, therefore, arrested and taken to his residence, where a search

was conducted in his presence and another brick-like object was found in his bedroom.

The suspected cocaine mule and the two brick-like objects were taken to CANU Headquarters, where the suspected cocaine was tested and proved to be cocaine. It was then weighed and amounted to 2.374kg (5.22lbs) Based on intelligence gathered, it is suspected that the cocaine was supposed to be transshipped to the United States, where it has a street value of about US$66,000, the equivalent of G$13.86 million.

Last Saturday, Ryan Da Silva of Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo (EBE) was arrested after a large quantity of cocaine was found in his vehicle during an operation conducted by CANU at Tuschen.

It was reported that agents of the drug enforcement unit, acting on information, conducted an opera-

tion in the Tuschen-Parika, EBE area, during which a motor vehicle in which the suspect was in was stopped and searched, and 15 bricklike parcels suspected to be cocaine were discovered.

At the time, Da Silva was the sole occupant of the vehicle. He was told of the offence, arrested, and escort-

ed to CANU Headquarters along with the narcotics for processing.

At CANU Headquarters, the parcels were tested and proven to be cocaine, which carried a total weight of 17.4kg (38.3lbs) and a street value of more than US$552,000 (approximately G$113.160 million).

CANU intercepts $1M worth of “poppy”

The narcotic that were unearthed in the vehicle

A

s the Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) continues to put a dent in the drug trade in Guyana, the Unit has arrested two persons who were carrying a quantity of foreign ganja popularly known as “poppy”. The two men were intercepted along the Linden-Soesdyke Highway on Tuesday.

Based on reports received, agents of CANU conducted a surveillance operation near the Linden Bus Park, and based on the initial information, two individuals were observed entering a motor vehicle.

As such, the drug enforcement officers followed the vehicle out of

Georgetown, down the East Bank Demerara (EBD) corridor, and onto the Linden -Soesdyke Highway.

However, the vehicle was eventually intercepted and a search was conducted on its occupants, during which a brick-like object suspected to be narcotics was discovered concealed in the vehicle.

The driver and occupants of the vehicle, as well as the brick-like object, were taken to the CANU Headquarters, where the substance was tested positive as “poppy”.

When weighed, it amounted to 1.2kg, with a street value of more than $1 million.

Investigations are ongoing.

NEWS

3

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

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

Wednesday, Dec 22 – 04:00h – 05:30h and Thursday, Dec 23 – 04:00h – 05:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Govt announces 2-week tax-free bonus for health sector workers

– Pres Ali urges health workers to continue serving country

Wednesday, Dec 22 – 06:25h – 07:55h and Thursday, Dec 23 – 07:00h – 08:30h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY There will be thundery showers during the day.

Expect light rain showers at night. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.

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

High Tide: 06:14h and 18:25h reaching maximum heights of 2.42 metres and 2.54 metres.

Low Tide: 11:59h reaching a minimum height of 0.81 metre.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2021

LOTTERY NUMBERS D

03 07 09

16 20 25

FREE TICKET

10 Bonus Ball

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2021

DAILY MILLIONS

04 10 12 16 24

I

President Dr Irfaan Ali

n what will place a further $612 million into the hands of health sector workers, President Dr Irfaan Ali has announced that the Government has approved a one-off, two-week tax-free bonus for all health workers.

The move is expected to benefit 9200 employees in the health sector and is likely to be paid by the end of the week. According to Ali, this is in keeping with the Government’s promise to reward health workers.

“I want to take this opportunity again to thank all the workers in the medical field, medical services, health services, for the work they continue to do,” the President said, also urging health workers to continue fulfilling their duty and eschew political propaganda.

“In keeping with the Government’s promise to reward you for the work you’ve been doing, I’m pleased to say the Government is taking a decision to grant an across-the-board tax-free two weeks' bonus salary to every single healthcare worker. Not just doctors or nurses or frontline workers. For every single healthcare worker."

However, he noted that the Government is making the necessary investment into

LUCKY 3

3

1

7

2

Afternoon Draw

5

7

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

04 09 11 13 14 15 21 SUPER

PAY DAY

PAY DAY

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2021

01 02 07 14 16 13

10 11 16 19 21

4

1 Afternoon Draw

FP Afternoon Draw

8

3 Evening Draw

3X Evening Draw

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

COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Change %

Crude Oil

$73.98/barrel

+3.33

Rough Rice

$250.02/ton

+0.12

London Sugar

$487.80/ton

-2.05

Live Spot Gold

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1788.50

$1789.50

Low/High Change

$1784.60 -0.60

$1801.50 -0.03%

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh

healthcare workers.

“We ask of you to continue to do your best in support of the citizens of this country, your Guyanese brothers and sisters, and most of all in keeping with your oath of duty,” President Ali said.

In a statement, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh also confirmed the impending payout and further indicated that instructions have been issued for the bonus to be paid before the end of the current week.

When the Government recently announced the 2021 across-the-board increase for Central Government employees, Minister Singh had indicated that an amount of $400 million had been set aside to be paid to frontline workers in the health sector who continue to brave extenuating dangers of the COVID-19 pandemic while in the discharge

of their duty.

“In making the final determination on the payout to the health sector employees, Government has decided to make the payment applicable to all workers in the health sector, having taken into account the challenges involved in identifying which specific posts in the health sector constitute frontline posts and which do not,” the Ministry said.

“This latest announcement comes less than one week after the Government completed processing and paying the 7 per cent acrossthe-board increase to all Central Government employees along with their December salaries which placed $10.5 billion in the hands of 50,000 public servants, teachers and members of the Disciplined Services. This bonus now paid to health sector workers represents yet another tangible step taken by the Government

to improve the circumstances of public sector employees and of all Guyanese more broadly.”

Last year December, a two-week bonus for healthcare workers had also been announced by the Government.

Shortly after the PPP/C Government assumed office, healthcare workers began protesting for better pay and benefits in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Emergency Budget for 2020 presented by the Government had already allotted $150 million for frontline workers, who are those healthcare professionals that deal solely with COVID-19 patients.

But the healthcare workers, during their protests, wanted all healthcare professionals – not just those on the frontline – to benefit from better conditions. This, therefore, laid the ground for the precedent of all healthcare workers benefiting, to be set.

4

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021

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

Intractable domestic violence problem

G

uyana continues to battle the scourge of domestic violence, and, over and over, there are stories being repeated by women who have endured years of abuse.

Too many Guyanese women are being killed at the hands of their husbands/partners/reputed husbands/estranged partners as they either attempt to escape a life of domestic violence or endure such abuse. Over the years, Guyana has had an intractable domestic violence problem, but this should make us work harder to alleviate this pernicious condition.

While there have been several initiatives launched, one of the areas that have not received much attention in Guyana has been the dynamics operating between couples. Nowadays, arranged marriages are passé, and couples date or otherwise have a relationship for extended periods, before actually getting married.

An ever-growing phenomenon, of course, are the couples who ‘live home’ even after children are produced in the relationship. Are there signs of an abuser that can be discerned early on in a budding relationship, which can then be nipped in mandatory pre-counselling before matters proceed too far?

While Guyana has not ‘progressed’ to the stage of having dating services, some interesting warning signals have come out from those studies in the countries that we imitate in our social relations. The concept is the same as where the individual in Guyana reveals his/her personality after a few dates.

As this newspaper had said before, a paper that was published in the journal “Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin” examined the influence of prior experiences on partner preferences.

The researchers themselves constructed a believable-looking “online dating service,” and thus were able to track the study participants’ preferences and selection of various partners.

Although the study participants didn’t know it, the researchers had carefully chosen the profiles, so that they differed in systematic ways.

For their first study, the researchers focused on heterosexual women’s preferences, and the men’s profiles that they looked at differed in how much they signalled potential for psychological abuse in intimate relationships. The profiles themselves were actually real, with the profiles of potentially abusive men written by men who scored high on characteristics associated with abusive personality: impulsivity, anger, jealousy, low self-esteem.

A separate sample of participants independently confirmed that the profiles gave off warning signals of potential abuse.

The researchers’ results are sobering: Women who had a history of being psychologically maltreated in a prior relationship were three times more likely to choose potentially abusive dating partners than women without this history.

In other words, women who are at risk of being abused in their relationships are more likely to be attracted to the very features that others see as clear precursors of abuse. Often, these choices are rationalised: intense jealousy is misinterpreted as caring, and anger is romanticised as “dangerous.”

In a second study, the researchers turned the tables around and focused on heterosexual men’s preferences. Their question was this: Who do potentially abusive men prefer? The results showed that men who scored high on a measure of inflicting psychological abuse were 1.5 times more likely to choose a partner who is high on attachment anxiety. Attachment anxiety is a disposition associated with victims of abuse, and is characterised by an intense anxiety over rejection. As such, people high in attachment anxiety are particularly vulnerable to being “treated like a God” during the courtship phase of a relationship: being flooded with flowers, adulated, constantly called. Fears of rejection overwhelm the ability to detect an unhealthy balance between independence and interdependence in their relationships.

What does one do, in the face of such data, with people high in attachment anxiety and their potentially abusive partners essentially judging each other as highly compatible? As simple as it may sound, one powerful answer is to rely on your social networks.

Sometimes we need to rely on other people to help us see what we cannot.

Most abuse and violence are committed by “significant others”. We bear much of the responsibility for choosing them.

Let us become educated on the signals sent out by abusers.

People wearing Santa Claus outfits take part in a charity race to collect funds to help victims of the Cumbre Vieja volcano eruption, in Madrid, Spain (Reuters/Juan Medina)

Would the new PNCR Leader seek to repair his party’s battered image?

Dear Editor, With the dark clouds of the 2020 regional and national elections still hovering above, PNCR operatives appear to calm fears about electoral irregularity by conducting a ‘free and fair’ internal election to choose their leaders. It was critical that the PNCR show to the country and the world that, despite their intransigence during the 5-month post2020 election saga, they have not abandoned the democratic way.

However, while the PNCR party has elected new leaders, this does not necessarily mean that they will bring visionary leadership to the party and the country. The challenges ahead are numerous, and the most formidable one is not only about consolidating their (PNCR) base, but also about expanding their reach across ethnic lines. It is not only the PNCR, but all political parties need to seek support across ethnic lines.

While the PPPC and PNCR have historically received cross-ethnic support from Amerindians and Mixed, each major ethnic group (Indo-Guyanese and AfroGuyanese) has been unable to make a similar impact on each other.

The AFC had begun to make a breakthrough in ethnic-based voting in 2006, built upon that in 2011, and picked up momentum in 2015. Those Guyanese voted on issues, and not race.

The demographics of the country are changing rapidly, as well as its social conditions. About 60% of the population is below 35 years. This age group does not necessarily have a penchant for “the old politics” (except those interested in history, or a political career); instead, they are more interested in NOW and the FUTURE. A pragmatic and hedonistic ideology drives their needs. They want to know who could better lead them to realise the good life.

Time is not on their side.

With such a transformation in attitudes, it is becoming apparent that the force of race in voting preference would gradually weaken, and be replaced with reason (informed choice). Issues, and not race, have begun to creep towards centre stage, as evidenced in the two previous elections (2015 and 2020).

This movement (advancing issues and reason) picked up steam in 2011 when other political par-

ties, particularly the AFC, had been able to attract a substantial amount of traditional PPPC voters.

This inroad into the PPPC base had caused the PPPC to lose its Parliamentary majority following the 2011 polls. The movement continued to expand its growth into 2015, when the APNU+AFC coalition cracked further the PPPC traditional base by securing the support of 11% of its voters. These crossover voters were persuaded by the coalition’s position on issues which were forcefully articulated by the APNU+AFC leaders. They declared their “Sermon on the Mount” message that sugar was sacred; it was too big to fail; and that they would not close the sugar industry. Instead, they would grant sugar workers a 20% pay hike, while promising rice farmers $9,000 per bag of paddy.

Those traditional PPPC voters bought into those messages, and cast their ballots for the coalition based on issues, and not on race.

The PPPC hopes that its efforts to break into the PNCR traditional base would ultimately result in some measure of success. The PPPC realises that its traditional base

has shrunk sharply from the 1990s to comprise less than 36% of the country’s total voters. It’s continued viability, therefore, depends on a sustained cross-ethnic outreach, buttressed with effective policies and programmes.

The new PNCR leaders have a similar challenge.

Their traditional voter base has also shrunk (but to a lesser extent than the PPPC); it comprises about 28% of the voting population. For its political viability, the PNCR must move beyond its base and seek cross-ethnic support.

However, before planning its strategy as an Opposition party and as a potential governing party, some fundamental concerns must be addressed by the new leader.

Now that the PNCR has a new leader, Mr. Aubrey Norton, and it has carried out one of the basic principles of democracy, i.e., free, and fair election, Guyanese have the reasonable expectation that the leader and his team would continue to walk the democratic track.

One of the leader’s top priorities should be to repair the battered image of the PNCR following the 2020 regional and national elections. CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021

5

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

Water management should be automated Dear Editor, In recent weeks, images of flooding happening as far south as Soesdyke have been appearing on social media. Based on the comments made under many of the flood posts, there was seen to be a certain agreement among commenters about how absurd the situation really is. Why are we so neglectful in making it a priority to be floodfree forever? The thing is that people, though sincere and imaginative in their comments, do not appear to be sure about what they should be asking for.

After reading these com-

ments, I was left with the sense that people want to participate critically in conversations toward a better Guyana, but seem to be unable to frame their thoughts beyond forms such as "we should have China build a new city for us." and then concluding with "I do not know why this has not happened yet."

Admittedly, at this point, it is not obvious to anyone that construction would take place inside the Demerara Conservancy in the near or distant future. It is a preserve that provides us with clean water, higher air quality, and many oth-

er ecosystem services. That said, the dam and canal contours that define its perimeter have provided us with a defence from, and supply of, the vast amounts of water produced within the watershed.

Without this channelling system, together with the sluice gates to manage it, the coastal area, including the banks all the way up to Soesdyke, would be virtually uninhabitable. Given what is known about the current geophysical Earth age we are thought to be in, this mega-construction is said to guarantee us coastlanders some 10,000 years

Would the new PNCR...

FROM PAGE 4

At a legal and constitutional level, he must sort out the power anomaly: in a context where he is neither the Leader of the Opposition nor the Leader of the APNUAFC Parliamentary List (when the PPPC was in the Opposition, all these titles were properly occupied by one person).

Additionally, he must clarify the PNCR’s relationship with the smaller parties in APNU, particularly the AFC. There are a few critical issues surrounding the battered image of the PNCR that require quick action.

Image, like charisma, plays a significant role in politics. To repair the PNCR’s battered im-

age, therefore, the leader needs to set in motion a series of corrective actions. (1) Since PNCR operatives have been accusing and demonising Caricom leaders of complicity with the PPPC just because they support free and fair election results, shouldn’t the new leader apologise to Caribbean leaders whom they have vilified? (2) Would the new leader consider apologising to the nation for his party’s behaviour during the 5-month post-election saga? (3) Would the new leader denounce and reject racism and violence as political tools? (4) Would the new leader recognise the legally elected PPPC Government, a status rec-

ognised by 100 countries, including all Western democracies: the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, European Union, as well as by international organisations such as Caricom, Organization of American States, and the Commonwealth? Failure to resolve these and other issues would not work to his advantage.

The country and the international community are watching. Guyana needs a good and effective Opposition, a ‘government in waiting,’ to preserve democracy and ensure accountability.

Sincerely, Dr Tara Singh

of flood protection.

Furthermore, this 'water redirection paradigm' gives us a principle by which we prepare new lands as they open up. With a perennial water management system such as ours, why do we, to this day, still experience so many floods? Why is it not a national priority to advance drainage technology, especially in the highly valuable and progressively denser banks and coastal areas?

Why is flooding an acceptable reality for the city and elsewhere? What do citizens not know about the authorities in charge of water management across the country? Is there a planned future for water management? Do our authorities see the enormous industrial potential implied by the modernisation of water management in Guyana?

Do we not see that active water management implies the employment of multitudes of different workers of different trades and aptitudes? Do we not see vibrant futures for our qualifying authorities and for the societies and guilds of professionals that power them?

Editor, it is no secret that water management in this country is active and involves constant monitoring.

The levels of drains, canals and the sea are to be known at all times if we are to keep the water away from our properties and livelihoods.

For this, we have sensors connected via mobile towers and the internet; the con-

stant streams of data they emit and the computer systems that act upon this input. Then there are the software developers who build and maintain solutions, so that the pumps can switch on or off, or the sluice gates can open and close, given the precise conditions for doing so.

Water management should be automated, and in that case, would still employ hundreds, if not thousands of people along the way, across the regions, in fields and in jobs that many would be proud to work in. It should be obvious to us that it would take more than just a handful of 'koker men' to protect billions of dollars’ worth of investments, livelihoods and the benefits derived from increases in quality-adjusted life years. Do we not see that this problem is a tremendous opportunity for the development of our people, our skills, and our technologies?

Editor, I apologise for

the demand I have placed upon you in the space of this letter. I humbly request that you permit me once again to air these views, as I believe very strongly that critical conversation about the real issues we face may hold keys to propelling us forward. It is also very clear to all of us that flooding is obnoxious and unacceptable. Further, in my opinion, there is something of an integrated, idiosyncratic and uncontroversial infrastructural vision implied by this situation.

On that note, I wish to end here by asking: how many more floods must we endure before we realise that we need to take full control of our water management system? Can we not see that, in doing so, we would be developing our technologies, employing ourselves, and driving our industries for centuries to come?

Sincerely, Emille Giddings

6

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021

Page

Foundation ◄

Dividing decimals by whole numbers

D

ividing a decimal by a whole number is exactly like dividing whole numbers except you have to know where to put the decimal point in your quotient. If only the dividend has a decimal point, put the decimal point in exactly the same column in the quotient.

Example: Estimate 28.5 ÷ 2

First you fold strips of paper, then draw the shape you like on them and cut them out. Glue the sides together and you´re done. That´s how easy you make a really nice tree ornament. (designoform.com)

Step 1: Set up your division problem and put the decimal point in the proper place in the quotient:

.

2 28.5 Step 2: Divide

14.25 2 28.5 28 050 050 0

Exercises: Divide 1) 12.20 ÷ 7

4) 31.05 ÷ 11

2) 33.60 ÷ 1

5) 54.31 ÷ 23

3) 894.08 ÷ 2

6) 92.88 ÷ 7

W

rite a letter to your parents, describing for them what you would like to have for Christmas. Don’t forget to include the reason why you want the item.

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

7

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Appeal Court rules it has jurisdiction to hear dismissed election petition – stays decision for 2 weeks; AG says Govt will appeal

T

he Court of Appeal has ruled that it has jurisdiction to hear an appeal against a ruling of the High Court to dismiss election petition #99. However, the door has been left open for this decision to be challenged before the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) with a two-week stay.

This election petition challenging the results of the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections, had been dismissed back in January by acting Chief Justice Roxane George. On Tuesday, the Court of Appeal decided in a 2 to 1 decision that they had the jurisdiction to hear an appeal of the dismissal of the petition.

Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary Yonette CummingsEdwards and Justice Dawn Gregory ruled in favour of this, while Justice Rishi Persaud determined that the Appeal Court has no jurisdiction.

Article 163 (3) of the Constitution states that “An appeal shall lie to the Court of Appeal (a) from the decision of a Judge of the High Court granting or refusing leave to institute proceedings for the determination of any question referred to in paragraph (1) and (b) from the determination by the High Court of any such question or against any order of the High Court made in consequence of such determination.”

In his decision, Justice Persaud pointed to Article 163 (3) and noted the unambiguous language of the Constitution.

And since Justice George did not dismiss the election petition on its merits but rather, because of procedural errors on the part of the applicants, Persaud noted that the appeal does not meet the threshold to be heard in the Court of Appeal.

“In applying the application test here, it is clear that the order made by your honour was interlocutory. Had her honour ruled that the second respondent was not a necessary party or that service was in time, the petition would have proceeded to trial.”

“In any event, there was no final determination of the dispute between the parties.

In the circumstances I would strike out the notice of appeal in civil appeal #21 of 2021 for want of jurisdiction,” Persaud said.

The Chancellor and Justice Gregory disagreed. In Justice Gregory’s case, she was of the view that shutting out an appellate procedure would defeat the purpose of Article 163 of the Constitution.

“Parliament would not have left the matter for implication, if a decision of the High Court was intended to be a final decision. Parliament would have so expressed. So, I don’t read the silence to provide an appeal procedure as a shutting out of the jurisdiction of appeal under that scheme, that is the National Assembly Validity of Election Act,” she explained.

Further, the chancellor stated that she considered all the precedence cited in

Attorney General Anil Nandlall

the submissions by Mendes and Nandlall but felt that it failed to invalidate the Court of Appeal’s jurisdiction to hear the appeal.

Appeal

However, the Chancellor acceded to a request from Trinidad-based Senior Counsel Douglas Mendes, to stay the decision for two weeks while they decide whether to appeal the ruling at the Caribbean Court of Justice. Mendes was joined in this application by Guyana’s Attorney General Anil Nandlall. There were no objections by the opposing side.

Meanwhile, Nandlall in an interview after the ruling maintained that the Court of Appeal has no jurisdiction to hear the appeal. He noted that this petition was dismissed by the Chief Justice on the grounds that it was not served properly. And it should therefore stay dismissed, especially when one considers precedents set in courts across the Caribbean and the com-

Chancellor (ag) Yonnette Cummings-Edwards

monwealth.

“The Government’s reaction is one of disappointment. We feel that the learned Judges erred… the two of them. And we are convinced that the Guyana Court of Appeal has no jurisdiction to hear or determine the appeal before it,” Nandlall said.

“If one is to go back to the challenge to the 1968 election.

That petition was dismissed on technical grounds. The 1973 election was challenged by an election petition. That also was dismissed on a procedural, preliminary ground.

The 1985 elections were challenged by an election petition. That was dismissed on the ground of, among other things, non-service.”

Nandlall noted that none of these cases were appealed at the Court of Appeal, because the Constitution of

Justice Rishi Persaud

Justice Dawn Gregory

Guyana is clear. He noted that Tuesday’s ruling undoes the clarity of all those set precedents. The Attorney General made it clear that the Government will appeal the Court of Appeal’s decision.

Election petition #99 which was filed on September 15, 2020, was dismissed on January 18 by Chief Justice Roxane George, SC, as a result of the petitioners’ failure to effect service on the second-named respondent, former President David Granger within the statutorily prescribed time. In the face of an appeal against the Chief Justice’s ruling, Nandlall had moved a motion to have the case struck out.

The was dismissed owing to non-compliance with effecting service as prescribed under Section 8 of the National Assembly (Validity of Elections) Act and Rule

9 of the National Assembly (Validity of Elections) Rules.

The manner of service is prescribed in Rule 9 (1) of the National Assembly (Validity of Elections) Rules, which imposes on the petitioners the statutory obligation to effect service within five days after the presentation of the petition.

Petition #99 having been filed on September 15, 2020, should have been served on the former President five days thereafter which would have been September 21, 2020, since the fifth day – September 20, 2020 – was a Sunday.

However, in the affidavit of service of Nurse, it was stated that the petition, along with the relevant documents, was only served on Granger on September 25, 2020 – five days outside of the statutorily prescribed period.

8 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Serious crimes down by 27% in Regional Division 4C – Commander Pareshram lauds effort by ranks

Top ranks of the Guyana Police Force and those who were promoted on the spot

A

s the Guyana Police Force continues to celebrate and reward its ranks throughout the Divisions countrywide, Regional Police Division 4C is no exception as it hosted its Annual Awards Ceremony on Monday, December 20, 2021, at the Cove & John Police Headquarters, where several ranks were elevated to higher rank and some tangibly rewarded for their contribution, dedication and committed service to the residents across the division.

Commander, Senior Superintendent Khali Pareshram, during his address at the ceremony, highlighted that ranks in the

now and no one has left for the next sphere in life.

"We were rewarded with blessings and criticisms from the public during our successes and operations, both constructive and otherwise. We took the criticisms in good faith and instances where we fell but that did not daunt the commitment of the ranks...we strategised and move onwards with more successes," Commander Pareshram said.

Enhanced public trust

“We have improved on our relationship with the communities across the division, not only with continued

Assistant Superintendent of Police Jermaine Dufu (Best Cop) being awarded by Police Commissioner (ag) Nigel Hoppie

Policing Groups, station management committees and the Cops and Faith network, and all the volunteers who have contributed positively to Division 4C in 2021.

Successes for Division 4C

Division 4C Commander, Senior Superintendent Khali Pareshram

Division continue to uphold the Force’s motto, “Service and Protection”, and have performed exceedingly well during the year in keeping with the Force’s mandate.

He noted that “despite several challenges ranging from the COVID-19 pandemic to instances and issues beyond its control, the ranks remained steadfast and continue to perform their duty with dignity and pride".

Commander Pareshram noted that a few ranks were affected by COVID-19, but they are all healthy right

and 80 grams of meth.

The Commander also noted that, at present, the Division has a presence in all communities with a robust patrolling strategy.

"I am thankful that with the recent allocation of pickups, cars, and motorcycles, there is some form of mobility at every Police location in the division. Our responses to incidents have been above par and for 2021, we have disrupted nine criminal groups with a focus on intelligence-led policing and monitoring on a daily basis by the Divisional-based management information unit.”

The Division through

visibility in all categories of the patrol but in partnership with the stakeholders and Community Policing Groups. During the year, team policing and our social crime prevention strategies were pivotal…we have had 280 lectures to drivers, 85 lectures to schools, 92 community visits together with working along with the youths in several communities," Pareshram said.

He also highlighted the service of the stakeholders, youth leaders, and members of the various Community

While robberies, rape and break and enter continue to be some of the primary offenses in the division, it has seen robust decreases when compared to 2020.

In terms of these crimes, the Division has recorded a decrease of 27.9 per cent in serious crimes comparative to the corresponding period at December 15, 2020; the lowest recorded over a number of years including when Turkeyen and Mahaicony Police Stations were a part of the Division, Commander Pareshram declared.

He noted that twelve firearms were seized, with five from suspects just after the commission of robberies.

64 persons were charged with narcotics-related matters and seizures have been at 22.389 kilograms of cannabis, 840 grams of cocaine,

its continued collaboration with stakeholders has also benefitted from several donations of much-needed equipment such as computers, printers, furniture, and AC units, to assist in the speedy delivery of services to the public. These partnerships have also seen rehabilitation work being done to several Police Stations in the Division such as the Cove and John, Vigilance, Clonbrook, and Beterverwagting Police Stations were enhanced with repairs and maintenance, and fitting of military and paramilitary compounds.

Traffic

While acknowledging the sore issue of traffic and accidents, the Senior Superintendent said, “Traffic has had mixed fortunes in 2021,” while pointing out that the division is tasked with maintaining a presence on the two main road networks -- that is the East Coast Highway and the Railway Embankment.

TURN TO PAGE 14

Race in PNC...

I

…race f your Eyewitness were to paraphrase Tina Turner and ask about the just concluded PNC leadership elections: “What’s race got to do with it?” the answer’s gotta be a resounding, “EVERYTHING!!!” And the reason isn’t hard to see. Ever since they were booted out of office, the PNC and their myrmidons have been screaming, “Racism!!!” at every initiative the PPP has taken. Calling for the entire Guyanese nation to take the COVID-19 pandemic seriously and get vaccinated?? Racism!! Never mind that literally every country on planet earth has done the same!! Flood relief for affected farmers?? Racism!! 7% salary increase for Government workers and sugar workers?? Racism! The race card was the only card they played.

And we all know the reason for this dog-whistling, don’t we? As always, when it comes to the PNC, it boils down to seizing power by any means necessary. RACE became their card the moment Burnham walked out from the unified nationalist PPP and launched the PNC to satisfy his lust for power. He sweet-talked African-Guyanese to follow him like the Pied Piper he was. His own sister Jessie had written about this in her tract, “Beware my brother Forbes”!

Anyhow, the increasingly strident race-baiting campaign exposed the PNC for what they are - a party determined to keep Guyana racially divided.

That a picture’s worth a thousand words is proven by the picture of the new PNC Executive!! NOT A SINGLE INDIGENOUS PERSON WAS DEEMED FIT AND PROPER TO BE ELECTED!! And a single 22-year-old Indian-Guyanese novice riding on Norton’s coattail to become the Treasurer.

Did anyone EVER hear of a treasurer influencing a political party’s policies? Then there were 3 Indian-Guyanese in the 15-member CEC. And this is the party accusing the PPP of racism?? This is tribal politics to the max!!

Well, Roysdale Forde, who ran for the Chairmanship and lost massively to a Norton unknown cipher - did predict what’d happen if Norton’s tribal politics won out, didn’t he?

They’ve just doomed the PNC to another 23 years in the wilderness, that’s what! Let’s face the facts, even if Norton and his team don’t want to. The PNC base that they slavishly pandered to is - at best - 29% of the populace; along with maybe another 13% of the Mixed-Guyanese. So they end up with 42% of the vote - about the same they’ve been getting since 1964!! Burnham was allowed to rig to overcome that statistic, but Granger’s attempt was slapped down in 2020.

Dis time All of this just to lead the base to protest (and most likely riot) in the sun against “the man”? What’s different this time from “lang time”? …against Christmas Your Eyewitness could sense the desperation in the organisers of the PNC’s Congress to get their elections out of the way before the big “C” Day!! That it had to be shoehorned before year end was bad enough…but only the 7 days before Christmas?? This was sacrilegious!! What to do with those “swans a-swimming”, not to mention that partridge in the pear tree??!! In Guyana, that translates into schlepping carpets on one’s head through the streets of Georgetown while dragging boxes of plastic toys!

It could be that the votes of just about half of the 2500 PNC members here and in the diaspora might’ve been caused almost as much by the Christmas competition as by the general ennui over the factionalism occasioned by the elections. Folks gotta realise that “democracy” is a nebulous concept among the PNCites!! Generally, they just vote according to whatever the leader says. Just look at the success of Norton’s slate and you’ll know of what your Eyewitness speaks!!

Now onto Christmas and the New Year!! …and Norton’s second coming Norton teared up when accepting his installation as the new PNC Leader. He must’ve remembered his humiliation when, as General Secretary, he was summarily dismissed as a “creature” of the then leader!

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

9

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22,, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

10 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Friendship man killed while trying to protect aunt

Mother of the dead man: Zioni Ferdinand

Joseph Ferdinand

By LaWanda McAllister

A

23-year-old construction worker of Friendship Squatting Area, East Bank Demerara (EBD), is now dead after he was stabbed twice during a quarrel over his aunt.

Dead is Joseph Ferdinand also referred to as “Joshua”.

Reports are that the victim and the suspect are known to each other and on the day in question, they were involved in a heated argument during which the suspect armed himself with a knife and stabbed the construction worker once to his front upper left chest and once to his lower left side chest.

The victim reportedly collapsed and was picked up by residents and taken to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The suspect was subsequently arrested by Police after he turned up at the Diamond Diagnostic Centre to request treatment for injuries to his face and body, after being beaten by villagers.

He is presently being treated under Police guard for injuries he received at the hands of citizens.

Guyana Times visited the dead man’s home on Tuesday where his mother Zioni Ferdinand recalled what she heard happened.

“All I get the message at home that my son get jook on his heart, and he gone to the hospital, when I reach to the hospital, the doctor say he come without life in his body.

My sister and the boy had a

The dead man’s aunt

talking, and he come and tell the boy, why you troubling my aunty, and I made to understand that he push the boy, the boy out the knife and push it into he.”

The woman said at the time her son was stabbed to death, he was at his place of work where he has been working for some time.

“That is my best son and he has just gone down. The place that he was, they always take advantage on him.

The man that he works with, always work him out and owe him and leave him hungry and would always have to come home to me and ask me for food.”

“It’s very hard on me. I have a daughter that has a colostomy and this is very hard on me. This is not the first time something happened to my son there.

Couple of weeks ago, a boy walk into the shop and slap him in the face…”, the mother said.

Ferdinand, who is the eldest of nine children, according to his family, was left on the road to bleed out long before his family begged persons to take him to the hospital.

“I saw my son for the last time on Sunday because he would usually be by his aunty or grandmother… he

didn’t have no problem with anybody. The same boy, [the suspect] all of them do go and work on sea,” she explained.

It is also alleged that the suspect is known for committing several offences in the community.

“He murder other people, but this murder he didn’t get away from… God is in charge, and all is well. They [the dead man’s employers] even got him working there, and put him to drink fowl blood. I don’t know why they putting my son to do that; when he died, they didn’t even show no mercy to come and take him to the hospital,” the tearful woman explained.

Meanwhile, the dead man’s aunt who didn’t give her name, said their family needs justice for her nephew’s death.

“We are poor, we don’t know how we will bury my nephew. We don’t have a dime, my sister [the dead man’s mother] is pregnant, I have five children. We are single parents and we have to get justice… we don’t have money. My sister [the dead man’s mother] didn’t even eat for the day and my nephew is in the cold and we can’t afford to bury him.”

“We are pleading for help, we need justice please, please…”, she exclaimed.

13-year-old dead, family members critical after consuming suspected poison

A

13-year-old former student of Aruca Mouth Primary School in Region One (Barima-Waini) is now dead while his relatives are battling for their lives after they allegedly consumed a poisonous substance.

The dead teenager was identified as Ronald Henry while those hospitalised are his father - 35-year-old Ronald David, his brothers - four-year-old Kelvin Henry and 11-year-old Kevin Henry; his sister - seven-

year-old Celina Henry, and his mother - 34-year-old Donnette Henry.

Reports are that at around 16:00h on Sunday, the family started to experience severe diarrhoea and vomiting after they reportedly consumed a “local made liquid product”.

On Monday at around 13:00h, the 13-year-old became motionless at home. He was then taken to Mabaruma Regional Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The other family members were immediately taken to Mabaruma Regional Hospital where they were admitted as patients in a critical condition.

A team of environmental officers and Police ranks visited the scene where checks were made on and around the premises, but no container or anything relating to a poisonous substance was found.

Ranks are closely working along with the health officials and investigations are in progress.

NEWS

11

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Critical interventions being undertaken to support housing drive – Min Croal 2022,” he said.

To enhance potable water delivery on the East Bank, the Housing Minister highlighted that the drilling of new wells in Providence, and another in Diamond has commenced.

Additionally, water networks in several other areas are being upgraded.

This, he said, will see some communities along the East Bank receiving potable water for the first time.

“We are upgrading water treatment plants in

A developing housing scheme on the East Bank of Demerara

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal

H

ousing and Water Minister Collin Croal on Monday stated that the Government is working on a number of critical programmes to support the massive housing drive in Guyana.

Among those interventions are strengthening access to water, expanding the road network, improving housing conditions and promoting employment through community-based projects countrywide.

Delivering remarks at the commissioning of the $5 billion Eccles to Diamond

interlink road. the Housing Minister said of the 100 low-income houses being constructed in Prospect, EBD, 50 of these are already in progress.

Meanwhile, in Little Diamond and Great Diamond, 522 similar houses are in various stages of preparation.

“Mobilisation of 140 houses for young professionals has begun in Prospect, 200 in Providence, of which 100 are in progress; and 500 in Little and Great Diamond are expected to begin in the first quarter of

Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry, Susan Rodrigues

Eccles, Covent Garden and

Grove to increase the treated water coverage, and im-

proving levels of services in and around the surrounding areas, because we want you to be comfortable in your homes when you build them.”

Croal said the first phase of infrastructure for the upgrading of existing access roads, access bridges, unsurfaced roads, pipe networks, drains and culverts is underway to the tune of $7 billion.

“Tenders are out for similar infrastructural works in Plantation Golden Grove, Little and Great Diamond areas which will form part of the 2022 budgetary programme. In this regard, close to $28 billion

is expected to be spent by Government to develop the housing areas on the East Bank of Demerara inclusive of the new four-lane concrete highway from Eccles to Great Diamond.”

The Minister stated that these projects are just a few which the Government has undertaken to enhance the lives of Guyanese all across the country.

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues who also delivered brief remarks, reiterated the Government’s commitment to fulfilling its manifesto promises and providing a better life for all Guyanese.

12 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Mother of 6 gets new home in time for Christmas

Minister of Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud (second from right) presents the keys to new homeowner Ernesta Lara in the presence of Technical Officer (ag) Satesh Rajpat and Matthews Ridge Community Development Council’s Vice Chairperson, Janice MosesFraser

Ernesta Lara’s new home

H

uman Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud on Monday officially handed over a brand new home to a mother of six at Matthews Ridge, North-West District (NWD), Region One (Barima-Waini).

The 16 by 20 feet home is valued at over $1 million.

The woman, Ernesta Lara, had lost her home due to high winds back in January 2020 but through the Ministry in collaboration with Vitality Accounting and Consultancy Inc, a new one was constructed for her.

An emotional Lara fought to hold back tears as she showered praises onto Minister Persaud and her Ministry for this “life-changing gift”.

“This is going to change

my life, I can’t thank you enough, thank God for the Minister, thank God for everybody, I can’t stop saying thank God,” Lara said while adding that she was fortunate to find lodging at a neighbour’s home after

her house collapsed.

Persaud expressed that she was happy to present Lara with the home in time for the holidays.

“Ministry reaches out to people who are in very tough situations and Ms

Lara’s home collapsed because of high winds and she has a number of children including a child who has a disability and so we reached out with the help of the community, the region and the youth group

here, this was able to materialise,” the Minister stated.

She added, “I want to say a special thanks to Vitality Inc because they contributed to the cost of building this home.”

While Lara’s new two-bedroom home was erected on her land, the old structure was dismantled and the wood packed at the back in order to facilitate the construction of a pen where she can do farming.

Region 2 residents receive cash grants to start businesses

T

he residents of Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) who have registered for WIIN and are qualified for the Empowerment Fund on Tuesday each received their grant of $50,000.

This grant, made available through a collaboration between the United Nations World Food Programme (UNWFP) and the Human Services and Social Security Ministry (MHSSS), is aimed at assisting young people to A male beneficiary collected his one-off grant

who cash

start businesses.

Parsram Singh, an official of the MHSSS, has said that those who collected the grant have each met the criteria set out by the World Food Programme. These in-

Mothers who completed the WIIN programme have benefited from the Empowerment Cash Grant

One of the beneficiaries, Divine Ross, expressing how elated she was to receive the grant, declared that she

A recipient collecting her Empowerment Fund at the Regional State House

clude being a single parent, unemployed, persons living with disabilities, being affected by the recent flood, and living in a single-parent home.

intends to start her small business.

"Since I finished school, I always want to own my business. I always plan to open an internet cafe in the

future, and with the empowerment one-off cash grant from the Ministry and World Food Programme, I am now motivated to buy a better working printer," she expressed.

Another beneficiary, Susan Betancourt, also expressed gratitude to the Ministry and the World Food Programme for the grant. She added that, with the one-off cash grant, she would be able to purchase the necessary furniture in order to start her business.

"I've completed the graphic design course, and I didn't regret it at all. Upon completing my course, waiting on my certificate, I decided to go small so as to open a printery. I had my computer for a number of years now, and a printer… all I have to get is my desktop table and a few shelves to just open the business. I want to thank the Minister and her partners for such initiative." Betancourt told Guyana Times.

NEWS

13

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Hearing-impaired community gets free eye tests, spectacles at First Lady’s vision screening

First Lady Arya Ali and a group from Region Six which comprises members of the Deaf Association First Lady Arya Ali and some of the deaf children who benefited from the screening exercise on Monday

T

he Office of the First Lady partnered with Optique Vision Care to conduct a vision screening exercise that benefited more than 80 deaf persons from five administrative regions on Monday.

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) facilitated the transport of both children and adults from Regions Three, Four, Five, Six and 10 to benefit from this initiative.

The exercise was done at

expressions, it is important to ensure that it is protected.

“It is very important that they have their sight because they already cannot hear or speak, so, the senses that they do rely heavily on must be protected,” Ali added.

“I am sure that many of them are grateful because, from the statistics that were given to me, out of the twenty persons that were tested so far, eighteen of them

those in need by Optique Vision Care, whose team of ophthalmologists and eye care specialists was led by Dr Shailendra Sugrim.

At the close of the day, a total of 57 eye tests were done on both children and adults and of that amount, 40 will require spectacles which will be provided in the coming months free of cost.

Twenty-four persons were rescheduled to conduct their tests next week due to time constraints.

First Lady Arya Ali looks on as Dr Shailendra Sugrim conducts an eye test on one of the persons

defined in terms of ethnic inclusivity. Yes, that is very important. But, our One Guyana must be inclusive to every group that feels excluded or marginalised, and that includes persons with

Some of the members of the Deaf Association waiting to have their eye screening and tests done at Optique Vision Care

Optique’s MovieTowne location at Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown.

Asked why this particular group was chosen to benefit from this initiative, First Lady Arya Ali said that because this group is overly reliant on their sight for visual

needs spectacles,” the First Lady disclosed when she visited the exercise.

Persons underwent a free eye screening examination to detect existing or potential vision problems and disorders. Eye drops and spectacles were also provided to

Since assuming office last year, Ali has brought persons with disabilities into sharp focus by prioritising their needs and advocating for greater inclusivity of that group.

“When we speak of ‘One Guyana,’ it must not only be

disabilities,” she added.

Ali also thanked the (GDF) for its support in transporting the persons, the Deaf Association of Guyana for coordinating with the various regions,

and Optique for making its human and other resources available to execute the much-needed initiative.

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Optique, Dhani Narine shared how delighted he was that Optique was able to partner with the Office of the First Lady to fulfil its corporate social responsibility.

“This project is fitting for the season because we are giving the gift of sight for Christmas and we are very happy to be supporting the initiative and the First Lady’s Office,” Narine noted.

Earlier this month, on International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Mrs Ali hosted a reception for persons with disabilities at State House – the official residence of the First Family.

14 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

9-month-old boy among 6 COVID deaths recorded

– 35 new cases detected in 24h

T

he Health Ministry on Tuesday reported that a 9-month-old boy from Region Six is among six persons who succumbed to the deadly COVID-19, thus taking the death toll to 1039.

The Ministry stated that an 82-year-old man and an 80-year-old man died on December 10. They both hailed from Region Six. Then on December 20, a 69-year-old man from Region Six, a 71-year-old man from Region Three and a 60-year-old woman from Region Four also died.

Following the death of the

37,173 patients have recovered from the life-threatening virus while 414,041 tests were conducted.

An analysis of the new cases showed that three were reported in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara); 14 in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica); 12 in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne); two in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni); two in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and two in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

No new cases were re-

SEX

AGE

REGION

Male Male Male Male Male Female

9 Months 69 80 82 74 60

East Berbice-Corentyne East Berbice-Corentyne East Berbice-Corentyne East Berbice-Corentyne Essequibo Islands-West Demerara Demerara-Mahaica

six persons, the Ministry offered sincere condolences to the families. In addition, the Ministry has been in contact with them to ensure they are safe from the virus.

However, new statistics released showed that 35 new cases were detected in one day, thus bringing the total confirmed cases in the country to 38,926.

There are eight patients in the designated Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 671 in home isolation, 35 in institutional isolation and two in institutional quarantine. The data showed that

ond doses, 56.8 per cent or 291,473 persons are completely immunized.

A regional first dose coverage shows 85.2 per for Region One, 63.9 per cent for Region Two, 76.8 per cent for Region Three, 89.6 per cent for Region Four, 79 per cent for Region Five, 78.8 per cent for Region Six, 81.8 per cent for Region Seven, 51.3 per cent for Region Eight, 76.1 per cent for Region Nine and 39.1 per cent for Region 10.

“From these numbers, looking at our first dose, we would see that Region 10 re-

DATE OF DEATH December 19 December 20 December 17 December 10 December 20 December 20

ported in Regions One (Barima-Waini); Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam); Five (Mahaica-Berbice), and Eight (Potaro-Siparuni).

Presently, the Ministry is monitoring 761 active cases. There is a hospitalisation rate of 38 – 28 of which are at the Infectious Diseases Hospital. Eight are seeking treatment in the Intensive Care Unit of that facility and five are on ventilators.

Vaccination statistics have shown that 79.8 per cent of adults have taken the first dose, representing 409,254 persons. For sec-

Vaccination Status Unvaccinated Fully Vaccinated Unvaccinated Unvaccinated Unvaccinated Unvaccinated

mains extremely low at 39.1 per cent and Region Eight at 51.3 per cent, followed

by Region Two at 63.9 per cent. These are relatively low numbers and it is even low when we look at the second dose because they’re all really lagging behind. So, we want to encourage those persons who have not come out to get their vaccines as yet to make sure they come out and start the process,” Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony outlined in Tuesday’s COVID update.

The Minister is urging persons to return for their

CIOG hosts Fun Day for children

GUYANA COVID-19 DASHBOARD DECEMBER 21, 2021 UPDATE

NUMBER OF NEW CASES

35

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL ISOLATION

35

DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES SINCE MARCH 2020 REGION 1

1700

REGION 2

1577

REGION 3

5192

REGION 4

18,140

REGION 5

1473

REGION 6

3664

REGION 7

1807

REGION 8

623

REGION 9

2485 2265

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN HOME ISOLATION

671

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN COVID-19 ICU

8

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL QUARANTINE

2

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (FEMALES)

20,562

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (MALES)

18,364

REGION 10

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES IN GUYANA SINCE 2020

38,926

HERE IS HOW YOU CAN BE SAFE DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

NUMBER OF RECOVERED CASES

37,173

TOTAL 1st DOSE VACCINATED

409,254

FULLY IMMUNISED

291,473

TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

1039

Wear a face mask.

Keep a physical distance of at least 6 feet.

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

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

booter shot, which he detailed will protect against the new Omicron variant that is making waves in the pandemic.

“In light of the looming threat of omicron, which is now in about 89 countries, we have to take precautions and get ourselves protected.

Therefore, we are encouraging everyone who is eligible for that booster dose to ensure that they come and get that booster dose. if you get infected, this will help you to

protect yourself. More than likely, you will get a milder form of the infection and at least, you won’t get hospitalised or die from COVID.” All Guyanese are reminded to observe the protocols of the COVID-19 Emergency Measures (No 24), which are in effect until December 31, 2021. This order emphasises the need for everyone, 12 years and older to get vaccinated against COVID-19; the need for correct and consistent use of a face mask

when leaving your home; the importance of maintaining the six feet physical distance from others; and the need for good hand hygiene to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

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

Serious crimes down...

Children at the CIOG Fun Day

T

he Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG), in collaborating with the Military Information Support Team of the US Embassy in Guyana, hosted a Fun Day for the children of Maria Elizabeth/ Three Friends Mine in Linden, Region 10, on Saturday last.

The event, which catered for more than 150 children ranging from one year old to 16 years old, saw children participating in sever-

al games, including cricket and football; and the winning teams were awarded trophies and other prizes.

The children were also able to have their faces painted, and were facilitated to play on the trampoline.

Moreover, Tigger the Tiger made an appearance, and played with the children even as he distributed goodies and gifts to those who were present.

The CIOG thanked its donors who made the event possible for the little boys

and girls. Gratitude was extended to the US Embassy, the NDC of Maria Elizabeth/ Three Friends Mine, Guyana Beverage Company, Caribbean International Distribution Inc, Ricks and Sari, D Singh Trading, Clear Waters, Rahaman’s Fruits, and Feroze Khan.

“Our sincere gratitude (is extended) to the entire team who gave their time and effort to make this event a happy and memorable one for the kids,” the CIOG has said in a release.

Pareshram said comparative fatalities have decreased by 56 per cent but there are increases in the remaining categories. He noted that the new four-lane highway continues to be a challenge with the majority of road accidents within that division. However, despite the prevailing weather conditions, the ranks continue to maintain a presence which has seen a comparative increase of 58 per cent in cases made," he noted.

In closing, Commander Pareshram did not stop short in praising his ranks for their exemplary service, boldly saying, “I am proud to say that the efforts made by the ranks contributed significantly to the successes as mentioned above. They were led well by the officers, inspectors, and subordinate officers. Today, despite the fact that each and every single rank deserves to be physically rewarded, the opportunity does not present itself to bring all of them here due to duties, especially with the

Christmas policing in progress.”

Pareshram, however, acknowledged all of the ranks who were present to receive awards and thanked all of them for their contribution in providing, maintaining and minimising traffic and crime incidents, together with ensuring that the public was satisfied with a high quality of service delivered.

Awards

Those elevated to higher ranks were: Woman Constable 21437 Eneka Fraser to Woman Corporal Constable 20871 Guwraff Bissessar to Corporal Lance Corporal 19401 Bhachan Singh to Corporal Constable 22974 Rayshan Tixey to Lance Corporal Constable 23532 Adrian Murray to Lance Corporal Constable 24032 Raydon Wilson to Lance Corporal A s s i s t a n t Superintendent of Police

FROM PAGE 8

Jermaine Dufu was awarded Best Cop 2021, while Runner-Up Best Cop was awarded to Constable 23237 Wintz.

Individual awards were also given for the following categories: Secretary of the year – Woman Constable Fraser; Most improved Station Sergeant – Woman Sergeant – Mitchell; Crime Fighter of the year – Corporal Drayton; Most Disciplined: male – Constable Tixey, female – Woman Special Lance Corporal Gulliver; Best Dressed: male – Constable Williamson, female - Woman Constable Doris; Force Driver of the Year – Corporal Persaud; Youth Leader of the Year – Woman Sergeant HalleyFraser; Most Improved CID Rank: male – Corporal Singh, female – Woman Constable Austin; Most Improved Prosecutor – Corporal Moore; Most Improved Traffic Rank: male – Constable Applesammy, female – Woman Constable James.

NEWS

15

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Ramsammy’s Ruminations New online learning initiative Georgetown Public Hospital is on the move – set to transform health care in Guyana

W

e wish our sisters and brothers a safe and merry Christmas.

We also extend congratulations to Health Minister the Honourable Frank Anthony. On Thursday, December 16, Dr Anthony presented the first reading of the Tissue and Organ Transplant Bill in the National Assembly. It is expected that, on Thursday December 30, 2021, the Minister would present the Bill for its second and third readings. We are hopeful the Bill would enjoy unanimous support.

That Guyana has reached the stage where it is necessary to pass a law regulating organ and tissue transplants is indicative of how far Guyana has come in healthcare. In 1992, when Guyana restored democracy, our country was struggling to simply do a basic blood test like measuring someone’s hemoglobin. In less than thirty years, we have travelled an exciting road, but Dr Leslie Ramsammy we have bumped our heads too many times. In 1992, no Guyanese could honestly have said they would have envisaged Guyana doing laparoscopy, openheart surgery, brain surgery, and organ transplant with local staff.

No Guyanese would have been able at the time to predict Guyana would be delivering dialysis and radiotherapy using locally trained Guyanese nurses and doctors. But in 2021, these services have become almost routine in Guyana, both in the Public and Private Sectors. Impressively, these advances continue to be led by the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

GPHC has innumerable stories over the years that make Guyanese proud. Equally, it has too many stories that make too many of us shake our heads in disbelieve. To say that the GPHC has disappointed too many of us too many times is not an understatement. But, as we end 2021, the Hospital is poised to deliver many more success stories, and hopefully, at the same time, provide fewer opportunities for the Guyanese people to feel disappointed. As 2021 comes to a quick end, there is a long list of accomplishments, in spite of the difficulties COVID-19 has presented. Amidst the restrictions, the doctors, nurses, allied health professionals and managers at GPHC achieved some groundbreaking milestones.

As the year closed, Dr Kishore Persaud and his team of young Guyanese doctors and nurses successfully completed six kidney transplants, one of which was with a citizen of Grenada. When we did our first kidney transplantation back in 2008 with an international team at the GPHC, it was one that few believed possible. Even more, it was unbelievable at the time because few believed that the GPHC had the facilities for the international team to perform such a surgery. But even then, few would have predicted that Guyanese doctors and nurses would have taken up the mantle. This is worldclass, complicated surgery done on very sick people. Because GPHC’s capacity for transplantation has increased, the hospital has established a Transplant Surgery Unit. With the expected passage of the Transplant Bill next week, the GPHC is preparing itself for transplantation to be routine at the hospital.

Because of the presence of the transplant team at the GPHC, and the emergence of a team of vascular surgeons and nurses, the GPHC was able to successfully conduct its first Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) surgery. For this historic achievement, Dr Carlos Martin, the lead surgeon in the vascular team, and Dr Kishore Persaud, the hospital’s transplant and vascular surgeon, performed the AAA surgery on a female patient. AAA is an aneurysm or swelling of the body’s main blood vessel – the aorta, which transports blood from the heart to all other body parts. In a weak artery, the walls can break, causing death.

AAA is present in about 1 to 5 percent of the population on autopsy.

High blood pressure, blood vessel diseases, hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), infection in the aorta, and trauma are a number of factors than can contribute to the development of AAA. Dr Martin’s youthful team has already made vascular surgery a routine medical intervention, having completed more than 250 vascular surgeries ranging from arteriovenous fistula to ruptured AAA repairs. People with complex and serious conditions of the blood vessels and lymph system (vascular diseases) in the past suffered for years without relief. Now the vascular team at the GPHC, consisting of clinical vascular and endovascular surgeons, provides coordinated and comprehensive treatment to people of all ages. Conditions treated include peripheral artery disease, aortic disease, mesenteric disease, and carotid artery disease. With such competencies at the GPHC, greater support is available for the cardiologists, the transplant team, and other specialist teams.

These represent just a small part of the advancements at the GPHC. In fact, on November 25, the same day the ground-breaking AAA surgery was done at the GPHC, another GPHC surgeon, Dr Duan, led his team in the first-ever liver resection for gallbladder cancer in Guyana; and yet another GPHC surgeon, Dr Ramcharran, and his team did Guyana’s first laparoscopic adrenalectomy.

Lest we forget, Dr Mahendra Carpen and his team provide daily cardiology services, Dr Amarnauth Dukhi brings competencies in brain surgery, Dr Zulphi Bux brings ER specialist treatment, and Dr Sugrim is ready to make corneal transplant a regular service at the hospital. The GPHC is on the road to taking leadership in medicine in Guyana to new heights in 2022.

launched for hinterland communities

T

he Rotary Club of Stabroek has partnered with oil giant ExxonMobil Guyana and the BrainStreet Group to deliver interactive online education particularly in the hinterland communities which will benefit the young minds of Guyana.

The collaborative project follows a successful first phase implemented in 2020 which saw online courses being developed and delivered for Grades 3, 4, 5, and 6 subject categories to registered users on the BrainCentral platform.

These courses were also broadcast via Facebook Live to widen audience participation and awareness.

According to a press release by the club, the courses were specifically designed to address weak areas for students who prefer to study specific topics instead of entire subjects such as algebraic expressions, linear equations and inequations, simultaneous equations, factorisation, quadratic expressions and equations and verbal statement and symbolic expressions.

The first phase of the project was successful due to strategic partnerships that were formed with residents and community leaders who expressed a strong desire to assist the children in the various communities. One such example is a partnership with some of the residents in Sandvoort, West Canje, Berbice, where a small learning centre was established at the Sandvoort Primary School. The residents provided tablets to allow students in Grades 5 and 6 to access courses on the BrainCentral platform via the e-Government network.

This collaboration continues with the provision of academic support for the students throughout the school year. An online National Spelling Bee Competition which attracted over 100 registrants and culminated with exciting semi-final and final rounds also formed part of the phase one initiative.

The second phase of this project, expected to be released soon, will build on the successes of phase one and will see the development of additional local community Wi-Fi networks to give the students access to academic materials on a localised version of BrainCentral.

Teachers in the villages will also be trained to develop and deliver lessons via the local platform.

Villages such as Yupukari, Katoonarib and Paramakatoi in Regions Eight and Nine among others are expected to benefit from this platform. A key feature of the application is that the courses can

Six children from the Buxton Youth Developers, St Joseph High School and the club’s Bagotville/ Nismes/La Grange literacy project were presented with tablets

be downloaded on to a device. This means that students can access educational resources without needing continuous internet connectivity. Content delivered by the Ministry of Education can also be installed and accessed via the platform.

Work has also commenced on the development of online science laboratories. The concept is to develop animated lab experiments that would give students an interactive experience allowing for transfer of knowledge to help with their studies.

The creation of public learning spaces where school-aged children are able to access the BrainCentral learning platform from select public locations free of cost is also part of the activities to be completed under this phase. This will especially help students who are still struggling with reliable internet access but who will be able to visit the identified areas to access online teachers, submit assignments and practice online quizzes as part of their continuous learning.

Another exciting component of the project will be the hosting of an Academic Bowl for Grade 9 students.

The main objectives of the competition are to foster the pursuit of excellence in a spirit of academic compe-

tition and good sportsmanship and encourage interaction between schools and the community. The subject areas for the competition are English, Mathematics, Social Studies and Science.

Preliminary rounds of the competition will be held online while the semi-final and final rounds will be hosted live on television and livestreamed on social media.

Lots of prizes will be up for grabs.

The Rotary Club of Stabroek and its collaborating partners, the BrainStreet Group and ExxonMobil Guyana are excited to launch the project which, it is hoped, will provide support to Government’s laudable initiatives in online education delivery and improved accessibility to educational content.

Community Relations Manager of ExxonMobil Guyana, Suzanne DeAbreu, who was present at the launch on December 16, 2021, at the Herdmanston Lodge noted that the expansion of the programme will help to excite and motivate young people and keep them engaged not only until they are able to return to school but in some instances, it will supplement their learning beyond. “I look forward to seeing the benefits of the programme and hope that it goes a long way in help-

ing these youngsters pursue their futures,” she said.

She further opined that it is strong partnerships with NGOs like the Rotary Club of Stabroek that enables ExxonMobil Guyana to fulfil their commitment to positively impact communities by making valued social investments with sustainable benefits. Providing educational opportunities that contribute to the socioeconomic advancement of young people demonstrates Exxon’s dedication to making a difference for today’s students and generations to come.

President of the Rotary Club of Stabroek, Carlotta Boodie expressed similar sentiments and underscored the need for corporate entities to continue supporting organisations such as Rotary that has over the years established strong community relationships. “The Rotary Club of Stabroek is extremely pleased to have this collaborative partnership with ExxonMobil and Brain Street Group that has helped us to expand our reach with regards to our literacy programmes. We embrace Nelson Mandela’s statement ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world’. This collaboration offers our children access to education in new and exciting ways,” she said.

16 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Health Minister warns against businesses accepting unvaccinated people – says such practice puts populace at higher risk

H

ealth Minister, Dr Frank Anthony has warned Guyanese of socialising at bars and restaurants that are flouting the COVID-19 measures since it puts them at a higher risk of contracting the virus by potentially mingling with unvaccinated persons.

For Tuesday’s COVID briefing, Dr Anthony shared

that understanding how the virus is transmitted is essential in protecting oneself.

If establishments are not checking the vaccination status of persons, he said it is likely that the unimmunised is present in the same setting. Moreover, in such locations, many persons would not be wearing masks – an additional risk

of contracting the virus.

“If you’re not wearing a mask, the virus would be transmitted through the air into your nostrils and into your respiratory system…Understanding transmission is very important and it’s transmitted because you’re breathing in the air that’s infected with the virus. What we need to

“We cannot keep institutions closed” – Education Minister H aving recognised the setback brought on by the closure of schools since the outbreak of COVID-19, Education Minister Priya Manickchand has positioned that the country’s educational institutions cannot be kept closed.

In the yearend briefing on Monday, it was stressed that while the Government has supported a blended learning approach for students, it is not the same as classroom learning. When students return for complete face-to-face learning, they will be introduced to the previous year’s curriculum.

“When you measure what children learned in that period with the worksheets, while it was by far better than nothing, it is not the same as face-to-face instruction and that is why we have to get back into the classroom, into a place where we have face-to-face instruction. When we get back into the classroom, a child is not going into Grade Four and doing Grade Four work. The child has to begin with the Grade Three work, finish that and then move on to Grade Four,” the Education Minister related.

Manickchand further added that learning has severely been affected following the closure.

Reopened education institutions would include the University of Guyana, Cyril Potter College of Education, TVET institutions.

“I would expect that all education institutions, everybody having been given the chance to get vaccinated twice and boosted, that we see all these institutions opening to face-to-face learning. Even as we expect persons to use the good ex-

Education Minister Priya Manickchand

periences of the mixed and blended approaches that had to be employed in the last year and a half, we expect to see people using both but we cannot keep institutions closed because our learners are being severely affected.”

She also insisted that online learning encompasses more than live lectures on online platforms.

The University of Guyana would have to prepare in this regard, especially since teachers would need to complete two years of education at the facility to gain their Bachelor’s of Education Degree.

“Online does not mean standing in front of a camera on Zoom and teaching. Online education has a whole set of things attached to it, including libraries, tutorials, videos that are accessible…So the University of Guyana is going to have to get on board or we will have teachers with an Associate Degree and not the full degree. And that is not fair to the teachers, neither the children of this nation.”

Since the closure of schools, the Ministry has embarked on a number of initiatives to ensure that students remain engaged.

However, with disparities in the system, the outcome has been far from what would have been achieved by face-to-face learning.

Studies have also shown that the longer schools are closed, the greater our students will be affected.

The Education Ministry printed thousands of worksheets for each grade which corresponded with the curriculum and what each child should have been learning if they were in the classroom.

The Guyana Learning Channel undertook the production of recorded lessons done by local teachers on the various topics outlined in the curriculum.

In September, the Education Ministry announced that schools would reopen on a rotation basis while examination students would have a full-fledged reopening. Secondary schools were determined individually by their vaccination coverage.

be very concerned about I think is that persons who go to bars and especially those bars that are not adhering to the regulations.”

He added, “If they’re not checking, there would be people who are there unvaccinated and at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19.

When you are in a bar, I don’t think people would be wearing their masks in close proximity. So, the chances of spread are much greater in indoor environments like bars and restaurants.”

He has sent a warning for persons to be mindful of the places they visit during the holidays, especially since gatherings are more common. Any business which flouts the measures, he underscored, should be a warning sign.

“We have to be extremely careful about the places that we visit during the holiday season, the duration of time that we spend at these places and a big warning sign should be if you go to a restaurant or bar and they’re not checking for vaccination status. That should be a big warning sign because you will be mingling with people that you’re uncertain about their status…

If people can insist that the conditions for COVID are met and then they would go out, then that would help us to remain safe. I would urge people to take the precautions…If it’s not safe, they

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony

do not have to be there or stay there,” the Minister highlighted.

From 04:00h to 23:00h, stakeholders can access services at banks, markets, supermarkets, grocery shops, gas stations, postal or shipping services, beauty salons, barbershops, hardware stores, clothing or stores; or other maintenance services.

Other services including food services, restaurants, bars (including those at hotels) can facilitate delivery, drive-thru, curb-side pickup and take away services between this timing. Selfservice buffet dining is still prohibited. Gambling, pool and snooker games are not allowed at bars.

Indoor and outdoor dining is also permitted within the same hours at 60 per cent capacity, with tables spaced six feet apart, and

patrons above the age of 12 in possession of their vaccination card with accompanying identification document.

Casinos, betting shops or cinemas can operate but only at forty per cent capacity of the building or seating area. Patrons will only be allowed entry upon possession of a vaccination card to show their immunisation status.

Existing COVID guidelines state that non-compliant businesses will be issued a written warning, indicating that if the operator does not comply with these measures, the business of that operator may be suspended; or where after being warned, the operator remains non-compliant, their business will be suspended for a period not exceeding 30 days.

GPA mourns passing of former Guyana Chronicle Editor

T

he Guyana Press Association (GPA) extends condolences to the family and friends of Claudette Earle, who passed away on Tuesday.

Earle retired from the Guyana Chronicle in 2005, where she was Editor, after serving at the newspaper for decades.

She reportedly started her career at Guiana Graphic, her son, Yohann stated on Tuesday. She was the Sunday Editor, and edited the women's page along with the Sunday Magazine.

Described as fiercely independent, Earle was a lover of books and believed in women's equality, Yohann said as he pointed out that she promoted sto-

Claudette Earle

ries on women entrepreneurship, farming, and leadership.

She would be remem-

bered for her passion in journalism, her advocacy for journalism training, and her guidance to her younger colleagues.

NEWS

17

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Former PNCR Leader Granger congratulates Norton – PSC hopeful Norton will lead a responsible, vibrant Opposition

PNCR Leader Aubrey Norton

C

ongratulations are trickling in for new People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) leader Aubrey Norton, with his predecessor, former leader David Granger, issuing a statement congratulating him on his ascension to the top seat.

Granger, who was not physically present at the party’s recently concluded Biennial Congress where Norton was elected and who does not have a seat on the Central Executive Committee (CEC), assured Norton in his statement that he remains available to contribute to the party.

“The former leader expressed satisfaction that the process that was initiated by the presentation of the report of the Ad Hoc Advisory

Committee on Congress to the Central Executive Committee in April 2020 led to the convening of a safe and successful Congress in December,” the PNCR said in a statement.

“The former leader assured the new leader of his continued contribution to the party, of his commitment to the satisfactory conclusion of the party’s reform process, of his support for the party’s programme and, also, of his adherence to the party’s principles.”

Granger was not nominated to run as leader amid much internal pressure from within the party for him to step down after the PNC-led A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition was booted out of executive office after one term – which was also dramatically cut short when one of their own members supported a No-Confidence Motion brought by the then People’s Progressive Party Opposition.

Meanwhile, British High Commissioner Jane Miller also congratulated Aubrey Norton on becoming leader of the PNCR, following the 21st Biennial Delegates Congress elections on December 18, 2021.

According to a statement from the Commission, the High Commissioner had sent a letter to Norton con-

Former PNCR Leader David Granger

veying the diplomat’s congratulations and adding that she “look(s) forward to meeting you in the New Year and working together on issues affecting the people of Guyana”.

PSC

Also expressing congratulations to Norton was the Private Sector Commission, which expressed hope that with Norton installed as the PNCR leader he would lead a “strong, responsible and vibrant Opposition” that also upheld the law.

They also responded to some of Norton’s more harsh remarks, made in his first address to the party as leader on Sunday.

“The Private Sector Commission extends con-

E-Networks supports “Wish Upon a Star” initiative

E-Networks Marketing Coordinator Ashley John hands over the cheque to the Human Services and Social Security Ministry Permanent Secretary, Shannielle Hoosein Outar on Tuesday

E

-Networks Inc – Guyana on Tuesday presented the Permanent Secretary of the Human Services and Social Security Ministry, Shannielle Hoosein Outar with a donation of $500,000 towards its “Wish Upon a Star” initiative.

This initiative was conceptualised by subject Minister Dr Vindhya

Persaud and aims at fulfilling the dreams of children with special needs, between the ages of four and fifteen, during the festive season.

These needs include those living with disabilities, children who would have experienced some traumatic or psychological incident in their life, lost their parents and do not have guardians or caregivers, and

never had the opportunity to enjoy that one gift that could make them incredibly happy.

E-Networks Marketing Coordinator, Ashley John lauded the Ministry for its worthwhile project during the season of giving.

“We know a child’s circumstances or that of their parent/guardian might hinder them from enjoying Christmas, so we think it’s a brilliant initiative by the Ministry to bring joy during this festive season. As a local company, we are always thrilled to show our support to improve the lives of Guyanese, especially the youth in need,” John stated.

Hoosein-Outar on accepting the donation stated that, “This donation will go a long way in making the Christmas wishes of less fortunate children come true”.

In crafting the initiative, Dr Persaud had especially considered how children generally look forward to Christmas time and how granting their special wishes can profoundly impact them.

gratulations to Mr Aubrey Norton on his election as the leader of the People’s National Congress. The Commission looks forward to Mr Norton leading a strong, responsible and vibrant Opposition, upholding the Constitution and urging respect for the maintenance of law and order, as the leader of the major party in the APNU/AFC coalition.”

“The Private Sector Commission notes with regret Mr Norton’s unfair and inaccurate criticisms of the Commission as “politically biased” and can only assume that his remarks were driven by the fact that the Commission, in the defence of democracy, vigorously opposed the attempt to rig the last election in favour of the APNU/AFC coalition,” the PSC said.

Notwithstanding, the PSC noted that it welcomes Norton’s expressed interest in supporting the Private Sector and said it looks forward to the opportunity of inviting him to meet with the Commission in this regard.

“The Private Sector Commission remains an independent organisation that address cross cutting issues that affect the business com-

UK High Commissioner Jane Miller

munity and by extension the people of Guyana,” PSC concluded its statement by saying.

PNCR’s smaller partner in the coalition, the Alliance For Change, also extended congratulations to Norton. According to party Executive Cathy Hughes, AFC looks forward to working with Norton as he embraces his new role.

“The AFC looks forward to working with this new Executive to strengthen the Opposition against the wrongdoings of the Government, ensuring that better benefits flow to the

PSC Chairman Paul Cheong

people of Guyana. This is particularly important as we confront the ills of our present circumstances, and prepare to meet the socio-economic changes that are rapidly evolving. The people are anxious and impatient for change and we must meet their expectations,” Hughes said in the statement.

Norton secured a landslide victory at the PNCR’s 21st Biennial Congress, obtaining more than half of the 1280 votes cast. He got 967 votes while Opposition Leader Harmon obtained 245 votes and Van WestCharles received 64 votes.

Man medevacked from Port Kaituma after being stabbed

T

he Guyana Police Force (GPF) has reported that a 24-yearold man is now hospitalised after he was stabbed about his abdomen on Sunday evening. The injured man has been identified as Glenroy Williams, Police said.

According to the reports, the man had to be medevacked from Port Kaituma, North West District (NWD), Region One (Barima-Waini), after he sustained a massive laceration/stab wound about the abdomen, resulting in the protrusion of his intestines.

While details remain sketchy and the Police Force has not yet disclosed how Williams sustained the injury, he had to be transported to Georgetown and arrived at Base Camp Ayanganna, Georgetown, at around 1:10h on Monday morning.

Due to the severity of his injury, he was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) to receive emergency surgery.

“The patient sustained injuries primarily to the small intestines and the pancreas,” the report said.

He is now in a stable condition after leaving surgery at approximately 6:00h on

Glenroy Williams being medevacked from Port Kaituma

Monday morning.

“However, due to the nature of the injuries, he will be closely monitored for the next 24-48hrs as there is potential for complications,” the Police added in a statement.

Meanwhile, a statement from GDF said the Bell 412 crew that transported

Williams consisted of six GDF ranks.

“The crew arrived at Port Kaituma at approximately 23:15h on Monday night to transport the patient. The pilots endured marginal weather conditions but were able to mitigate and successfully complete the mission.”

18

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021

Regional

Guatemala massacre victims’ Former PM Anthony recovering after surgery community defies state of siege H

Former St Lucia Prime Minister, Dr Kenny Anthony

F

ormer Prime Minister, Dr Kenny Anthony told St Lucians that they should not be surprised when they “see a leaner and possibly younger-looking” person as he recovers from undisclosed surgery.

Writing on his Facebook page, Anthony, 70, who served as Prime Minister on two occasions from 1997 to

2006 and from 2011 to 16, said it was “no secret that six weeks ago” he had to undergo a surgical procedure.

In July, Prime Minister Phillip J Pierre said he was not including Anthony in his Cabinet because the former Prime Minister had turned down an invitation to join the Government as a senior minister with a portfo-

lio “that would interest him” because of pending surgery and outstanding legal affairs, but would reconsider another approach in six months’ time.

Anthony said that prior to and after his surgical procedure, he “received many kind, generous and encouraging messages” and wanted to re-assure everyone that “I am recovering well, and will soon be on my feet again. Of course, I have to take one day at a time.

“I thank my constituents who understood that I could not be with them as I would have liked to have been, as in times past. If, after my recovery, you see a leaner and possibly younger-looking Kenny D Anthony, be neither surprised nor alarmed.

The message is simple: It’s never too late to make lifestyle changes,” Anthony added. (CMC)

undreds of Indigenous people defied a state of siege on Tuesday and blocked a major road in Guatemala’s west for the second successive day, demanding the Government resolve a bloody century-old land dispute.

On Monday, members of the Mayan K’iche group blocked the Interamericana highway with the caskets of 11 of the 13 victims of a weekend massacre in which four children aged between five and 16 “were chopped up with machetes”.

“The people want peace and tranquillity and an immediate solution, because all that we’re asking for is a border,” said Francisco Tambriz, 51, a community leader from the Santa Catarina Ixtahuacan municipality that is in conflict with the neighbouring Nahuala.

“Santa Catarina is crying blood,” said Tambriz.

Although both communities are K’iche, they have been fighting over land – at times violently – for more than 100 years.

Members of the Mayan K’iche group blocked the Interamericana highway after a weekend massacre in which four children “were chopped up with machetes” [Johan Ordonez/AFP]

On Friday night, armed men with “high-calibre” weapons ambushed a group of people from Santa Catarina Ixtahuacan who went to the village of Chiquix in Nahuala to pick corn.

The children were cut into pieces and the victims were then burnt inside the truck they were travelling in.

A police vehicle was also attacked, leaving one officer

dead and two injured.

The Santa Catarina Ixtahuacan community claims those in Nahuala have stolen some of their land.

Late on Monday, President Alejandro Giammattei declared a month-long state of siege in the two communities, which means demonstrations and the right to carry weapons are banned. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Antiguan Govt to provide ‘compassionate’ funds for former LIAT workers Omicron will come, says Bostic

T

he Antigua and Barbuda Government is providing $2 million to meet partial satisfaction of the cash component of the “compassionate payout” to former local employees of LIAT. A statement issued by the Office of the Prime Minister said that the funds were being made available to the LIAT Courtappointed receiver for distribution to resident former LIAT workers.

“This sum is intended to meet partial satisfaction of the cash component of the compassionate payout which the Antigua and Barbuda Government has volunteered. It extends this compassionate offer, though

the Government has no legal obligation to make any such payments,” the statement said.

It added that the payment “is a compassionate payment, intended to bring some Christmas cheer to those who have been unable to earn incomes since they were severed” and that “the payment is limited to former LIAT workers resident in Antigua and Barbuda”.

Last week, the Gaston Browne Administration maintained its position regarding the severance offer made to former employees of the airline, insisting that it would not be “involved in any further discussions regarding any possibility of negotiations of the issue of

its compassionate offer”.

A statement issued after the weekly Cabinet meeting noted that the matter had been discussed, including “the offer made to meet 50 per cent of the severance cost of all LIAT workers”.

“The unions have yet to accept the legal position regarding the Government’s obligations and are still seeking to engage the Government with the aim of having further negotiations. The Cabinet has re-iterated its position and will not be involved in any further discussions regarding any possibility of negotiations of the issue of its compassionate offer,” the statement noted. (Excerpt from CMC)

Mexico says refugee requests tripled in 2021

A

pplications for refugee status in Mexico have roughly tripled this year compared with 2020, the Government has said, in the face of a significant influx of people bound for the United States.

The country has received 123,187 requests in 2021, up from 41,230 last year, Mexican Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard told reporters on Tuesday, describing the increase as “enormous”.

The Government and the United Nations were supporting the Mexican Commission for Refugee Assistance to deal with a backlog of applications, Ebrard said, adding that

the organisation needed more personnel and funding.

Mexico has a relatively simple asylum process and approves more than 95 per cent of applications, Ebrard added.

In recent months, tens of thousands of migrants and refugees fleeing poverty and violence have arrived in Mexico, where many are seeking asylum while waiting to try to enter the US. People smugglers commonly hide undocumented migrants and refugees in trucks bringing them from Guatemala into Mexico, from where they head north to the US border.

Underscoring the dan-

gers they face, a horrific road accident earlier this month left 56 people – mostly asylum seekers from Guatemala – dead after the truck transporting them overturned.

The incident put a spotlight on the dangers people face on the road to the US border, often at the hands of human traffickers known as coyotes.

Dozens of asylum seekers have died from violence or crashes in Mexico over the past decade, while the US has seen an unprecedented increase in the number of people seeking to cross into the country at its southern border this year.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

A

s the Barbados Government braces for the “inevitable” arrival of the COVID-19 variant Omicron, Health and Wellness Minister, Jeffrey Bostic, is urging people to go back to the basics and take individual responsibility for their safety and that of the community.

Speaking during a virtual media conference on Monday in which he also addressed some longstanding issues affecting nurses, Bostic said Barbadians needed to “start from scratch” by wearing masks, sanitising, and social distancing.

“We are preparing ourselves for the inevitable and I say inevitable, not to throw cold water on your Christmas preparations and so on, but to face some reality.

“And the reality is that it will find itself in our region in the coming weeks or months. This region, the Caricom region, will have to

Health and Wellness Minister, Jeffrey Bostic

face this variant.”

Bostic said although the positivity rate was now declining, the numbers would continue to rise and they could possibly be higher than those associated with the Delta variant, “but we have faced things before and we will continue to deal with what is coming”.

As such, the onus was on each person to play their part.

“We can’t stop it from

coming this way, but we can do things to help us cushion the blow,” he said, urging people to protect themselves, their families and the community, especially the elderly.

Omicron was first discovered by South African scientists and while it is said to be more contagious than Delta, emerging evidence suggests the symptoms may also be milder.

(Excerpt from Nation News)

American dies in Negril bike crash

A

n American woman’s Christmas visit with her Jamaican relatives was cut short when she died in a motorcycle crash in Negril on Monday night.

She has been identified as 46-year-old Ericka Wedderburn, from Oregon, USA. According to the Police,

Wedderburn was heading from the Negril town centre towards Le Mirage hotel when she lost control of the motorcycle she was riding and crashed into a section of the hotel’s wall.

She received head and facial injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash.

Inspector Gregory Hall,

head of the Westmoreland Traffic and Town Enforcement Unit, is encouraging motorists to be extra careful during the holidays.

“In this season there is always an uptick in the number of accidents, I beseech [road users] to be cautious,” he said. (Jamaica Observer)

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021

19

Around the World

Madagascar: Minister “swims for 12 OILNEWS OIL NEWS hours” after helicopter crashes at sea A Oil prices rise, but Omicron worries linger

O

il prices rebounded on Tuesday after a sharp fall in the previous session as investors' appetite for risk improved, although they remained cautious amid the rapid spread of the Omicron coronavirus variant across the globe.

Brent crude was up US$2.23, or 3.1 per cent, at US$73.75 a barrel by 12:17 pm ET (1717 GMT), and US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose US$2.44, or 3.6 per cent, to US$71.05 a barrel.

Countries across Europe were considering new curbs on movement as the fast-moving Omicron variant swept the world days before Christmas, throwing travel plans into chaos and unnerving financial markets.

"Measures are likely to be temporary thanks to the rapid rollout of boosters in many countries, not to mention the number of people that will contract it if it continues to spread at the rate it has," said Craig Erlam, senior analyst at OANDA. Omicron infections are multiplying rapidly across Europe, the United States and Asia, including in Japan, where a single cluster at a military base has grown to at least 180 cases.

"This is a pragmatic market that wants to be bullish but knows relief rallies, like the one this morning, will not last," said Tamas Varga, oil analyst at London brokerage PVM Oil Associates.

"The upside is likely to be limited and more restrictions will be greeted with renewed selling," he added.

Still, Moderna Inc said on Monday that a booster dose of its COVID-19 vaccine appeared to be protective against the fast-spreading Omicron variant in laboratory testing, providing some hope to investors.

On the supply front, OPEC+ compliance with oil production cuts rose to 117 per cent in November from 116 per cent a month earlier, two sources from the group told Reuters, indicating production levels remain well below agreed targets.

In the United States, crude oil inventories were expected to have fallen for a fourth consecutive week, while distillate and gasoline stockpiles likely rose last week, a preliminary Reuters poll showed on Monday.

The poll was conducted ahead of reports from the American Petroleum Institute, an industry group, due on Tuesday, and the EIA, the statistical arm of the US Department of Energy, due on Wednesday. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Putin blames West for tensions since end of Cold War

R

ussian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday blamed the West for escalating tensions in Europe, saying it had incorrectly assessed the outcome of the Cold War. Speaking to senior military officials, Putin said Russia would respond "adequately" to any Western aggression and would develop its army further.

"Why did they expand NATO and renounce the missile defence treaties? They are to blame for what is happening now, for the tensions building up in Europe," Putin said.

After what it regarded as its victory in the Cold War, Washington's judgement has been clouded by euphoria, he said, leading it to poor policy choices.

Russia has amassed tens of thousands of troops on the border with Ukraine, demanding that NATO refuse to accept

the former Soviet republic as a member and guarantee that no weapons or troops will be deployed there.

Putin said he hoped for constructive talks with Washington and Brussels on Russia's demands for security guarantees as there were signs the West was ready to work on the issue.

"Armed conflicts and bloodshed are absolutely not something we would choose, we do not want such a scenario," Putin said.

He said Russia's proposals were no ultimatum, but it had nowhere to retreat over Ukraine.

Speaking at the same meeting, Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said the United States had deployed some 8000 troops near Russian borders and, alongside NATO allies, frequently mounted flights by strategic bomber planes close to Russia. (Excerpt from Reuters)

M a d a g a s c a n Government Minister has said he swam for 12 hours to safety after his helicopter crashed at sea during a rescue mission.

"It's not my time to die," exhausted Police Minister Serge Gelle said as he recovered on a stretcher.

Two other security officials travelling with him in the helicopter also survived the crash.

The team had been scouting an area in the north-eastern part of the country where a passenger boat had sunk.

At least 39 people died in that accident, officials said on Tuesday.

On Twitter President Andry Rajoelina mourned

Minister Gelle and two other security officials survived Monday's crash

those who died and also paid tribute to Gelle and the other two officers, who arrived in the seaside town of Mahambo separately.

It's unclear why Monday's accident happened but Gelle,

57, said after the crash he swam from "7:30 last night, until 7:30 this morning," to Mahambo.

He said he had no injuries but added that he was feeling cold.

"I would just like you to broadcast this video for my family to see, my colleagues to see, the Government members to see. [I am] alive and well," Gelle told villagers at Mahambo.

Police Chief Zafisambatra Ravoavy told news agency AFP that Gelle had used one of the helicopter's seats as a flotation device.

"He has always had great stamina in sport, and he's kept up this rhythm as Minister, just like a 30-year-old... he has nerves of steel," Ravoavy said.

Gelle had served in the Police for three decades before his August appointment as Minister. (Excerpt from BBC News)

More than 160 migrants drown in shipwrecks off Libya, UN says

M

ore than 160 migrants drowned in two separate shipwrecks off Libya during past week, a United Nations migration official has said.

Safa Msehli, a spokeswoman for the International Organisation for Migration, said on Tuesday that at least 102 migrants were reported dead after their wooden boat capsized off Libya on Friday.

At least eight others were rescued and returned to shore, she said.

The second shipwreck took place on Saturday. The Libyan coastguard retrieved

Rescued migrants sit onboard a Libyan coastguard vessel arriving at the capital Tripoli's naval base on February 28, 2021

at least 62 bodies of migrants, Msehli said. The same day, the coastguard intercepted a third wooden boat with at

Hungary's Viktor Orban to defy EU over immigration law

Prime Minister Viktor Orban said the EU's migrant rules were obsolete

H

ungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban said his government will defy a European Union ruling and stick by its controversial immigration laws.

Last month the EU's top court ruled that Hungary's law criminalising lawyers and activists who help asylum seekers was in breach of European law.

A long-running row over Hungary's migrant rules means it could miss out on billions of euros in EU cash.

But Orban said Hungary had no plans to change the controversial laws.

Dubbed the "Stop Soros law", after the billionaire philanthropist the government accuses of supporting

Muslim migrants, the 2018 bill outlaws people and organisations from helping migrants apply for asylum.

It also prevents people from applying for asylum if they arrived from a country where their life was not at risk.

In November the EU's Court of Justice said that by passing the law, Orban's nationalist government had "failed to fulfil its obligations" under EU law.

But at his end-of-year news conference on Tuesday, Orban said the EU's rules were "obsolete" in the face of "massive migration" since 2015.

"The reality is that we have to stop the migrants at the borders," he said. "This can be solved by one thing: changing the European asylum rules, but this process has not even started yet."

The right-wing Prime Minister also accused the EU of "the most brutal sabotage" by withholding pandemic funds.

Top EU officials have said Hungary, along with Poland, is unlikely to see a first instalment of pandemic cash this year unless it commits to reforms to bolster democratic values and a free Judiciary.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

least 210 migrants on board, she said.

The fatalities were the latest disasters in the Mediterranean Sea involving migrants seeking a better life in Europe.

The new deaths have brought the tally in the central Mediterranean route to about 1500 migrants drowned this year, Msehli said.

Recent months have seen

a surge in crossings and attempted crossings from Libya as authorities accelerated their deadly crackdown on migrants in the capital of Tripoli.

About 31,500 migrants were intercepted and returned to Libya in 2021, compared with nearly 11,900 migrants the previous year, according to the IOM. About 980 migrants were dead or presumed dead in 2020, the UN agency said.

The IOM said that 466 migrants were intercepted or rescued at sea and returned to Libya between December 12 and 18.

Libya has emerged as the dominant transit point for people fleeing war and poverty in Africa and the Middle East.

The oil-rich country plunged into chaos following a NATObacked uprising that toppled and killed longtime ruler Muammar Gaddafi in 2011.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Biden to deliver free tests to battle surging Omicron

U

S President Joe Biden announced on Tuesday the opening of more federal vaccination and testing sites to tackle a surge in COVID-19 cases sparked by the Omicron variant, and said some 500 million at-home rapid tests will be available to Americans for free starting in January.

Biden offered both a warning to the unvaccinated, who he said have "good reason to be concerned," and reassurance that those who are inoculated can gather for the holidays despite the new variant sweeping the country.

"No this is not March of 2020," Biden told reporters at the White House. "Two hundred million people are fully vaccinated, we're prepared, we know more."

Striking a more dire tone about the risks to the one-infour American adults who are not fully vaccinated, Biden said those who still have not

been vaccinated "have a significantly higher risk of ending up in the hospital or even dying."

The measures announced on Tuesday include activating some 1000 military medical personnel to support hospitals already being overwhelmed

by COVID patients in some areas.

Biden's COVID-19 response has been criticised for focusing on vaccines at the detriment of testing and masking, and for underestimating the impact of the politically motivated anti-vaccine movement in the United States.

The new federal measures will not be fully in place ahead of Christmas on Saturday, leaving many Americans scrambling to find available tests ahead of holiday gatherings and travel - and confused about whether it is safe to press ahead with their plans.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

20

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021

guyanatimesgy.com

ARCHIE

ARIES (March 21April 19)

TAURUS

DILBERT

(April 20May 20)

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

CANCER (June 21July 22)

PEANUTS

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Enjoy the company of people who share your concerns and interests. A festive event will allow you to network with someone who can influence your career. Be entertaining and understanding.

Insecurities and negativity will get you down. Walk away from people who are critical and divisive. Set new rules and standards that will help you head into the new year with optimism.

Be a help, not a hindrance.

Put your energy into domestic and relationship improvements. Follow through and live up to the promises you make. Explore your options, but do your fair share.

Don't let gift-giving disgruntle you. Put a limit on spending and set your sights on things you can afford. It's the thought, not the amount you spend, that will put a smile on someone's face.

Your emotions will vary due to outside influences.

Maintain dignity and common sense, regardless of what others do or say. Put your heart and soul into something that you can control.

How you relate to others will affect how they treat you.

A positive attitude, kind gestures and patience will win favors and gain respect. A physical or personal change will prove enlightening.

Take care of unfinished business. If you count on others, you will be disappointed. Look for an opportunity to show what you have to offer.

Problems at home will develop due to a lack of information.

An emotional debate with a loved one will fester if you are indecisive. Gather facts and take a firm view to avoid being cornered by someone trying to take advantage of you. Trust your intuition.

SAGITTARIUS Set limits and stick to your budget. Put in place last(Nov. 23minute preparations that will Dec. 21) position you for a brighter future. Follow your heart and commit to a plan. Make up your mind and get moving.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

Fix up your surroundings and enjoy the comforts of home. The changes you make should ease stress, not add to your anxiety. Stop worrying and start enjoying what life has to offer.

Study situations thoroughly before you act. How you deal with partners, colleagues or superiors will lead to a change. You'll want to ensure that what takes place is beneficial.

Touch base with people you enjoy being around and (Feb. 20March 20) catch up. A discussion will encourage you to think long and hard about how you spend your downtime. Perhaps some changes can be made!

PISCES

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021

21

Frank Woon-A-Tai promoted to highest international rank in karate

-Guyana’s most decorated karate icon achieves 10th Dan rating after 57 years of training

F

Frank Woon-A-Tai with Teruyuki Okazaki, Masatoshi Nakayama and Yukichi Tabata

rank Woon-A-Tai, a Guyanese born-andbred proponent of the martial art of karate, created national and international karate history on December 22, 2021 when he was promoted to the highest rank in karate, the Tenth Dan, bestowed on him by the International Karate Daigaku (University) and the Shihan-kai Senate of nine founding masters with eighth dan and higher, during the IKD 2021 Tenth Anniversary announcements.

Under the IKD Constitution, Section 2 Powers: “the Shihan-Kai Senate is hereby vested with full power and authority to make, alter and repeal all laws, rules and regulations for the government, management, discipline and control of the International Karate Daigaku, or of any dojo or division thereof, and the members of the same in a state, district, territory or country where the International Karate Daigaku is now or may hereafter be established, and to enforce the laws, rules and regulations enacted by said Shihan-Kai Senate or any regulation or order made by the Shihan-Kai Senate.”

According to the long-established Japanese Martial Arts convention, ninth and tenth dan ratings are reserved for karate masters who are 60 and 70 years old and older. They must have over 50 years of karate training and teaching experience, and the following credentials: an A-class International Supreme Instructor Degree, an A-class International Supreme Examiner Degree, and an A-class Supreme International Judge Degree. More importantly, such a person must be the leader of a large international karate organisation (A-Class), like the International Karate

Daigaku (IKD).

In its ten years of operation, the IKD has amassed a membership of 80 regions in 57 countries across the globe.

This fantastic achievement under the leadership of Shuseki Shihan Frank Woon-A-Tai surpasses many Japanese-led independent karate organisations with direct lineage and tradition to karate founders Funakoshi and Nakayama.

In 1974 and 1979, Frank Woon-A-Tai brought Master Nakayama, 10th Dan, to Guyana.

His teacher once told him that the higher you advance in rank, and the more successful you are in life, people will always try to pull you back down.

He has already experienced this behaviour from critics and envious former colleagues, who were senior to him because some achieved their first Dan rank before him. He has especially experienced this from those who falsely created a rift between him and the elderly masters he served for 40 years.

However, they had unwittingly given him wings to soar above them like the Phoenix with his IKD organisation. By dedication, talent, and hard work, Frank has surpassed all of them in advancement and achievement.

Frank was the first JKA ISKF Instructor to be promoted to seventh Dan under the Japan Karate Association 20 years ago. Moreover, he was number one of the first four Instructors in the International Shotokan Karate Federation (ISKF) to be graded to Eighth Dan in 2008 by Masters Okazaki and Yaguchi.

Further, he held the office of one of two ISKF Technical Committee Vice-Chairmen directly under Masters Yaguchi and Okazaki.

Frank graduated from

FW and Nishiyama

the ISKF Instructor Training Institute in 1989, after willingly completing the course three times over. In 2004, he graduated from the University of Toronto with a B.A. in Japanese Studies and a minor in History. In 2011, Frank became a Member of the Order

of Service of Guyana, and was awarded the Medal of Service by former President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo. In 1996, he was a recipient of the French Guiana Medal of Honour, bestowed on him by the Regional President for 20 years of service to that country.

Frank is the author of ShuHa-Ri: My Life in Japanese Karate, published in 2020.

His book illustrates his early life in Guyana to his move to Jamaica and Canada, then to the rest of the world, only to return to Guyana, his roots.

Not to be outdone, his wife of 48 years, Maureen WoonA-Tai, has been promoted to Ninth Dan. Both Frank and Maureen have over fifty years of training with world-renowned masters like Nakayama and Okazaki. After 30 years, Maureen retired as a Royal Bank of Canada officer and became the driving force behind Frank’s success.

They are parents of Diandra, Michelle and Ken, 6th Dan, four-time World Champion.

Michelle has five children, among whom are twins who are actors. Today, Frank and Maureen are proud great-grandparents.

Dr. Dexter Shim of Trinidad and Tobago has also been promoted to Ninth Dan. He and Maureen are IKD Deputy Grandmasters. Dr.

His book cover

Shim met Frank while he was a medical student in Jamaica in 1976. Dr. Dexter Shim, M.B.B.S., DLO, FRCS, was born in Trinidad and Tobago in 1952. He was educated at the University of the West Indies, the Royal College of Surgeons in Edinburgh, and the Royal College of Surgeons in England. Dr. Shim is an Associate Lecturer at the UWI Medical School, and heads the Department of Otolaryngology and Ophthalmology at Port-ofSpain General Hospital.

Today, ninety-eight per cent of Frank’s legendary Instructors have passed away; namely, masters Nakayama, Sugiura, Nishiyama, Okazaki, Ito, Kanazawa, Shoji, Takahashi, Hayakawa, Tabata, Enoeda, Mori, Koyama, and Takashina, leaving him and his contemporaries to continue their Legacy.

Furthermore, of the two who are left, one is retired.

Risk management is key to 2022 success — Johnny Grave

F

aced with a busy 2022 schedule amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Cricket West Indies’ CEO has said that, over the coming months, managing risk would be a key factor for the organisation in determining the success of its international commitments.

Both the senior men’s and women’s Caribbean sides have been active throughout 2021, and will be confronted with an even busier schedule in 2022 with the Women’s 50-Over World Cup set for New Zealand and the men’s Twenty20 World Cup scheduled for Australia.

The Under-19 side, dubbed the Rising Stars, would also compete at the ICC Under-19 World Cup, starting next month in the Caribbean, further adding to an already complex international itinerary for CWI. Chief Executive Officer of the CWI, Johnny Grave, has said the regional governing body is already braced for the challenges associated with staging multiple tours during a pandemic, and believes it could do so while protecting the health and safety of players and officials.

“We’ve got a lot of cricket coming up in January,” Grave pointed out. “We’ve got the Under-19 Cricket World Cup, where we’ll be hosting 16 teams from all around the world coming to the Caribbean;

as well as Ireland, who are coming into Jamaica for some white-ball cricket, and also England in late January, into Barbados for five T20s. So, the start of the year is going to be very, very busy for us. So, again, we’ll be managing the risk of COVID the best we can, working closely with the governments of the region, especially the Ministries of Health, to ensure we keep our players and support staff and visiting teams as safe as possible, and also those communities who are kindly hosting our cricket.”

He continued: “Clearly, COVID is still around, and all the players and support staff are fully vaccinated, which clearly does manage and mitigate the risk in terms of anyone getting seriously ill.

But we need to be highly vigilant at all times, to protect ourselves and protect our colleagues and our friends and families and communities.

“So, it’s going to be another busy year for Cricket West Indies, particularly the start of the year, and we just hope that we can get through the cricket as safely and successfully as we possibly can.”

Only last week, CWI was forced to abort the One-Day International phase of the Pakistan tour, after nine members of the West Indies touring party tested positive for COVID-19 during the threematch Twenty20 series.

Antiguan Sports Minister Daryll Matthew, left, with CWI CEO Johnny Grave

Six players were among the positive cases, leaving tour selectors struggling to string together a meaningful squad for the December 18-22 matches.

Only weeks earlier, West Indies Women found themselves facing a difficult trip home after the ICC 50-Over World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe were abruptly cancelled following the emergence of a new COVID-19 variant in southern Africa.

With major nations like the United States, United Kingdom and the European Union bloc slapping travel restrictions on southern African nations, it meant West Indies Women were forced to fly to Oman and spend ten days in the Gulf state before being allowed to return to the Caribbean.

“It’s been a difficult few weeks for us, with the women’s team having to come home from Zimbabwe after the ICC

Qualifiers were abandoned due to travel disruption and uncertainty caused by this new variant,” Grave said.

“Luckily, the women’s team are all now back in the Caribbean…and I want to thank them for their understanding in what has been a very difficult situation. They had to spend ten days in Oman, going through a period outside of southern Africa before they could fly back through the UK or US, depending on what visas they had, and flight availability.”

He added: “But it’s a big relief to us, and I’m sure to them and their friends and family, that they’re now safely back in the Caribbean, and can get a bit of a break as we look ahead to next year. And now, having qualified for the New Zealand World Cup in February/March, we can begin our plans to prepare the team for an exciting World Cup.” (CMC)

22 BACIF hands over Super-16 Championship Trophy WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

…adds two new trophies

T

he Brass, Aluminum and Cast Iron Foundry (BACIF) had, in 2019, created the first Men’s Super-16 Championship Trophy for the tournament to be played at that year’s end.

It was a most coveted piece of metal artwork.

With the COVID-19 pandemic preventing the hosting of the tournament in 2020, BACIF has now returned alongside the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) this year to present another coveted piece of metal artwork to be used as the Championship Trophy for this exciting tournament in 2021. This time, however, BACIF has added to the exclusive marquee trophy by creating a new golden boot trophy, and has created another trophy, the purpose of which “would be revealed in good time”, according to the GFF. Official presentation of these trophies to the GFF was done on Tuesday morning at the company’s West Ruimveldt, Georgetown office.

While highlighting the symbolism of the trophy, BACIF General Manager Peter Pompey disclosed that the trophy is made of a com-

posite material that includes brass.

After giving a brief history of the entity’s relationship with the GFF, Pompey revealed: “We sat down, we had a discussion, we did share some ideas about what we want in terms of a trophy; and BACIF looked at, conceptualised the design, and with our ability to produce high-quality and good-quality craftsmanship, we went about making this trophy.”

Continuing, he said: “The trophy came back for refurbishing, and I’m extremely pleased this morning to be re-presenting the trophy to the GFF.” About the trophy’s significance, Pompey added, “I think this trophy represents the epitome of football, and the value football can not only bring to our communities, but brings to our country in the context of sports tourism.”

Expressing sentiments similar to Pompey’s, GFF President Wayne Forde credited the tournament’s corporate sponsors for contributing to a positive cause. “Football requires partnership to grow,” he declared. “I think Mr.

GFF President Wayne Forde and BACIF GM Peter Pompey flank the Super-16 Championship Trophy, while BACIF Coordinator Bretnol Bourne and GFF PR Keeran Williams display the other accolades

Pompey captured it well when he spoke about the value of football to our society; how football can be used as a sport to improve the wellbeing and the quality of life for young people.”

Continuing, Forde disclosed, “What we’ve seen over the past few weeks is quite a community of sponsors coming on board to invest in this tournament - to give our young people, both male and female, the opportunity to play football; to express themselves; to do something that they have deep passion and love for.”

Referring to the trophy, which because of its intricate design has taken over three weeks to be created, Forde disclosed that it has caught the

This year’s Super-16 Trophies created by BACIF

GFF President Wayne Forde

eye of international football bodies. “I will say that, when one looks at this trophy, it is the manifestation of a simple idea that called upon the best skill and talent that exists in this institution to pro-

Dafabet USA v Ireland Men’s International Series 2021…

USA NAMES UPDATED SQUADS FOR SERIES

duce such a fine work of art.

I will say to you that I have shared the images of this trophy with my colleagues at FIFA, CONCACAF, and at the Caribbean Football Union, and they are all amazed to

learn that this trophy was produced in Guyana,” Forde disclosed.

“And I’m very confident (that), sometime in the future, someone will come knocking on the doors of BACIF to produce a trophy. I’m hoping that it doesn’t surpass our trophy, but (be) one that (can) certainly occupy international prominence in an international space,” the GFF President has said.

While the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) team are the reigning champions, they would need to win the tournament two times in a row to keep the accolade. For now, the team would receive a replica, which is said to be in the works. (Jemima Holmes)

Region 7 RDC contributes to GFF Women’s Super-16 Festival

-Gajanand Singh is lone Guyanese in ODI and T20I squads

U

in the series, and is working closely with the two independent medical officers appointed to USA Cricket to ensure the best possible care, attention and protocols for all.

SA Cricket is pleased to announce the updated squads for both the ODI and T20I matches to be played in the upcoming Dafabet USA v Ireland Men’s International Series 2021,

Updated squads in full to the T20I and ODI squads are in line for potential Team USA debuts during the series, with several USA Under-19 players being called in to the senior squad for the first time.

The respective changes are as follows: Karima Gore, Jaskaran Malhotra and Aaron Jones have been ruled out of the T20I squad, and

to be played at the Broward County Stadium in Lauderhill, Florida, USA. There has been a number of additional players added to both of the USA squads in light of the ongoing COVID challenges being experienced.

A number of players called up

Gajanand Singh

would not be able to play in these matches.

Four players have been called up to USA squads for the first time as additional squad members.

Three USA Under-19 players come in, with Ritwik Behera named in both the ODI and T20I squads, while Yasir Mohammed and Ali Sheikh have been named in the T20I squad. And one of the stars of the 2021 Minor League Cricket season, Ryan Scott, has been called into the T20I squad for the first time.

The original replacement player, Kyle Phillip, was unavailable for selection due to work commitments. Rusty Theron has been withdrawn from the T20I squad due to a groin injury.

Two already selected players have been added to additional squads. Marty Kain has been added to the ODI squad, having already been in the T20I squad, and Sushant Modani has been added to the T20I squad, in addition to the ODI squad.

USA Cricket is continuing to monitor the COVID situation for all involved

USA T20 International Series Squad (December 22nd–23rd) * Monank Patel (Captain) * Ali Khan * Ali Sheikh * Gajanand Singh * Jasdeep Singh * Marty Kain * Nisarg Patel * Ritwik Behera * Ryan Scott * Saurabh Netravalkar * Steven Taylor * Sushant Modani * Vatsal Vaghela * Xavier Marshall * Yasir Mohammed USA One Day International Series Squad (December 26th–30th) * Monank Patel (Captain) * Aaron Jones (Vice-Captain) * Ali Khan * Gajanand Singh * Jasdeep Singh * Jaskaran Malhotra * Marty Kain * Nisarg Patel * Nosthush Kenjige * Rahul Jariwala * Ritwik Behera * Saurabh Netravalkar * Steven Taylor * Sushant Modani * Vatsal Vaghela * Xavier Marshall

Region 7 Chairman Kenneth Williams (2nd right) handing over the letter of commitment to GFF President Wayne Forde. Others in picture are, from right, Mayor Gifford Marshall, Wayshawn Forde and Alden Marslow

T

he Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region 7 (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) has provided sponsorship for the GFF Women’s Super-16 Festival by covering the return transportation cost of the Essequibo team that opposed the Bartica team in last Sunday’s clash at the Bartica Community Centre Ground, which saw Bartica getting past Essequibo.

Region 7 Chairman Kenneth Williams, in handing over a letter of commitment to GFF President Wayne Forde, posited that the RDC is committed to alternative sources in support of its resource-based economy.

The correspondence read inter alia: “We recognise sports tourism as one such vehicle… The RDC will continue to support the Women’s Super-16 Festival without hesitation, as it is great for the sport and the development of our females. We also believe that the theme under which this Festival is being held is very important: ‘We Rise Against Domestic Violence’.”

In the presence of Bartica FA President Alden Marslow and Bartica Mayor Gifford Marshall, GFF President Wayne Forde applauded Region 7 for providing this sponsorship,and noted that that region has always been very supportive of the development of football.

“The GFF will continue to reach out to you, and we know that when called upon, you will deliver, as you are very conscious of the fact that many hands make light work,” Forde has said.

CLASSIFIED ADS TAXI SERVICE Elegant Cabs. 231-1494 / 2264277, Cell #: 625-6600. 24 hrs.

WANTED Snack Attendant. Stabroek Market.

Tel: 226-5793

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

23

12 footballers to benefit from BACIF training in 2022

By Jemima Holmes

W

ith the compliments of Guyana’s most outstanding foundry - the Brass, Aluminum and Cast Iron Foundry (BACIF) of West Ruimveldt Industrial Area in Georgetown - 12 local footballers will have the opportunity of a lifetime to learn a viable skill that can gain them meaningful employment for the rest of their lives.

This announcement was made on Tuesday morning

by BACIF General Manager Peter Pompey during the ceremonial handing over of the exquisite Championship Trophy made by BACIF for use in the Men’s Super-16 year-end tournament.

According to Pompey, the apprentice training pro-

BACIF General Manager Peter Pompey

gramme would last for approximately 12-18 months, and would be offered to footballers from across the country.

“BACIF is an engineering manufacturing company in existence for 60 years; and, Mr. Forde, this morning I take pleasure in confirming to you that BACIF is willing to accept, in 2022, 12 young persons as trainees on programmes that

S

teve Ninvalle has been returned unopposed as President of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) following the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and elections held on Monday at the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) Headquarters at Liliendaal, ECD. GOA President Kalam Juman-Yassin served as Returning Officer for the elections. First Vice President Dr. Malissa Parris, daughter of Guyana’s only Olympic Medalist Michael Parris, along with Seon Bristol (Asst Secretary/Treasurer), are the new members of the GBA’s Executive Committee, while everyone else would’ve previously served alongside Ninvalle.

Major Gordon Nedd is the Second Vice President, while Carl Graham is the Third Vice President. Stacy Correia is the Association’s Secretary, and Dexter Paterson is the Treasurer.

Ninvalle, who also serves as a Vice President of the Americas Boxing Confederation (AMBC), highlighted that seeing the realisation of the proposed ‘Home for Boxing’ is top priority on the GBA’s agenda.

According to the returning GBA President, while a location is still being deliberated, a timeline of three years is given for the completion of this first-of-itskind building in the Englishspeaking Caribbean.

The facility, which would cost approximately $120M when completed, would have a 20-room dormitory, kitchen area, and a state-of-theart gym.

In the meantime, the GBA recently started the resuscitation of the Andrew ‘Six Heads’ Lewis Boxing Gym in Albouystown, which

New GBA First Vice President, Dr Malissa Parris

Ninvalle said is being done by the National Sports Commission (NSC) and ‘friends’ of boxing.

Several gyms across the country are also earmarked for infrastructural development in 2022.

“We (are) also (intent) on fostering a stronger relationship with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the GOA, because, without their support, we would not have been able to accomplish all the things we did; so that will be a priority,” Ninvalle related.

He added, “We will look to provide more opportunities and refresher courses for referees and judges. At this point, we are scheduled to have one referee/judge and an ITO at the AMBC Championships next year.”

As it relates to the return of competitive boxing, Ninvalle revealed that the GBA is eying the month of February as it seeks to identify and prepare boxers for the AMBC Championships next year.

He also noted that the returning GBA executives have been challenged to work to decentralise the sport, which

he said aims to unearth new talent, particularly females.

The International Boxing Association (IBA), formerly AIBA, is keen on seeing more female participation in the sport, both in the ring and in an administrative capacity.

“We have two females on our Executive Committee and a number of women serving in other capacities.

The IBA under President Umar Kremlev is making this mandatory, which I fully support,” Ninvalle has said.

A new National Coach will also be announced, according to Ninvalle, and a new plan for development will be formalised.

Ninvalle has thanked the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, for his support since coming into office last year, and noted that the GBA is looking forward to continuation of the relationship in working together to grow and develop the sport of boxing in Guyana.

Yassin also came in for some praise from Ninvalle, for supporting all the GBA’s initiatives.

can see their development in the area of the various skills that we’re involved in here,” Pompey announced at the company’s office.

“We have to look at development of football and our young people in totality, and it is within that realm that BACIF would like to offer 12 young persons from across the various regions in Guyana the opportunity to come to this organisation and, over 1218 months, be trained in a lifelong skill that can really substantially contribute to their wellbeing and their future development,” Pompey offered.

Highlighting that it is important for the Federation to ensure a proper transition from football to a productive life for players, GFF President Wayne Forde noted that it is transformative to have such a programme for players.

“To have 12 footballers I take it we will have males and females - participating in 1 year to 18 months’ trainee scholarship here at the Brass, Aluminum and Cast Iron Foundry, learning very important skills that they will be using for the rest of their lives in an ever-demanding construction and engineering sec-

tor in Guyana, is historic in any context,” Forde stated.

He added, “I would like to use this opportunity on behalf of the entire football fraternity, and more so our players who will be the beneficiaries of this kind gesture, to say thank you for the warmth and generosity of Brass, Aluminum and Cast Iron Foundry.”

This is the second such collaboration that the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has been able to establish this year, coming on the heels of a similar initiative with Machinery Corporation of Guyana (MACORP).

Back in July, MACORP extended a similar apprenticeship to 10 local players, both males and females, which they have since completed. The training offered courses in Excavator Operation and Technicians for the Caribbean. The first entailed theoretical pass and simulator exercise practical on the machine, while the latter was an 18-course programme that could have been completed virtually.

These opportunities are being seen as an avenue to show players that there is ‘life after football’, by equipping them with skills for meaningful employment.

T

he University of Guyana Medical Students Association (UGMSA) recently held their Annual Fun Day on December 17, 2021, and students from UGSOM, ‘The Med School Superstars’, participated in two cricket matches in which they clashed with ‘The Doctors’ and visiting students from the Texila American University (T.A.U.) In match #1, the students from T.A.U. emerged victorious against The Med School Superstars. Batting first, The Med School Superstars posted 52-5 in their allotted six overs.

In reply, Texila American University made 59-0 in 5.2 overs.

Tharun Kumar (T.A.U) was awarded the man-ofthe-match for his outstanding batting performance of 27 runs not out, while Navindra Persaud was the lead run-getter for the M.S.S with 25 runs.

Unfortunately, the bad luck of the Med School Superstars continued into match #2, wherein The Doctors emerged victorious. The Doctors posted a whopping 163-6 in their 12 overs, while the Med School Superstars could only afford 139-8 in their 12 overs.

The victorious Doctors team

Once again, Tharun Kumar (The Doctors) was awarded the man-of-thematch for his outstanding batting performance of 54 runs. he was supported by Ejaz Hattim with 45(28) and Clayton Naiker with 36(11).

Bowling for Superstars, Kurt Booker took 3-23 and Navindra Persaud took 1-22. Navindra Persaud was the lead run-getter for the M.S.S with 41 runs.

Also chipping in in a losing effort was Ravindran Singh with 39(24).

Although UGSOM failed to secure a win, the energy and atmosphere of the fun day was definitely needed after a tough first half of the semester. In a statement on their social media page, the UGMSA said special thanks go out to our cricketers and their crowd of supporters. This was one of largest fun days, with the greatest turnout since 2017. We look forward to seeing even more students present at our next fun day. Next year will certainly be our year, our year to win it all!

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021

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

BACIF hands over Super-16 Championship Trophy

Page 22

...adds two new trophies Page 23

Page 21

His “Eye Technique” that attackers fear Steve Ninvalle has been returned as President of the GBA

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