Guyana Times -- Wednesday, January 26, 2022

US Embassy conducts human rights training for Police, Prison Service P 22

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

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 4901

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022

Budget 2022 to address rising cost of living – President Ali See story on page 3

...says no new taxes to be included in budget APNU leadership squabble

Norton elected APNU Chairman as Granger resigns

PRICE

$100 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

P21 Blood transfusions at GPHC provided free for patients P11 Megaprojects will be completed under PPP/C Govt’s first term – PM assures

See story on page 9

Duo in custody for gun P22 possession

– Harmon to resign as General Secretary in 7 days – Granger continues as Representative of List

Process to select 10 more succumb nominees for NRF to COVID, 372 Board of Directors new cases commences detected in 24h – as motion sent to Appointments Committee

Cops have no authority to P25 remove tint from vehicles – Traffic Dep Supt

Page 10

Page 5

China donates US$10M to transform Joe Vieira Park on West Dem

Teen among 7 arrested for $30M Berbice P21 robbery

Page 2

Police Constable charged for P8 perverting the course of justice

2 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

China donates US$10M to transform Joe Vieira Park on West Dem

Commissioner (ag) of the Protected Areas Commission, Jason Fraser, and the Economic and Commercial Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy, Hanming Hu, sign the implementation agreement

T

he Guyana Protected Areas Commission and the Chinese Embassy have signed an agreement that is intended to transform the Joe Vieira Park in Region Three

Bank Demerara (WBD), has been in an abandoned state for years. It was donated to the regional government by businessman Joe Vieira and falls under the National Parks Commission. The

and the National Parks Commission Jason Fraser along with the Economic and Commercial Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy Hanming Hu signed the agreement that cost some

An artist’s impression of the enhanced Joe Vieira Park

(Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) into a modern green space.

The Joe Vieira Park located at Schoonord, West

green space was designated a park on March 24, 1982.

On Tuesday, Commissioner (ag) of the Protected Areas Commission

US$10 million.

“I believe this new park will provide the local people a modern public place near their home where they can

enjoy the lakeside views, picnic time, fitness exercise, culture events, and recreational activities,” she said.

The park will also include canopies and a children’s activity centre. It will be fully funded by China through a grant and will have a Guyana-China friendship monument commemorating the long and ongoing friendship between the two countries.

Meanwhile, Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud, who attended the signing

ceremony, said this marks the beginning of a comprehensive programme of activities to celebrate the 50th anniversary of bilateral relations between Guyana and China.

“Our relations over the past 50 years have certainly been very consistent and stable because in Guyana we have always maintained adherence to the One China policy, and that has been a policy that we have not deviated from…”, he said.

The Foreign Secretary

added that he hopes to get support from China on all other platforms while adding that the move to develop the Joe Vieira Park is in accordance with the President’s vision to see major development across the country.

“Whilst we have identified this particular part of the President’s vision to establish similar such facilities…we look forward to working with other partners particularly China in making those a reality,” he explained.

Health Ministry mulls adding booster dose in travel requirements

T

he travel guidelines currently in place for persons to enter Guyana have worked effectively in preventing imported cases but the Health Ministry might consider adding booster doses as a requirement.

To enter Guyana, the requirement of complete vaccination and a negative PCR or antigen test within 72 hours, remains unchanged.

However, Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony suggested during Tuesday’s briefing that with increased booster uptake, a booster condition could be included.

“We haven’t changed any one [of] our travel requirements…In the near future, as we start getting more people to take the booster doses, that is something that would be under consideration, perhaps to add booster doses as well. Right now, it’s the same basic two things, full vaccination and a test to show your COVID-19 status,” he positioned.

Overall, since the air-

ports were opened in October 2022, about 76 imported cases were detected.

The Minister opined that this is credited to the measures in place that filter infected persons from travelling into the country.

“We probably had, over the last couple of days, maybe less than five. So, this number has not changed radically. We have been monitoring but we are not getting a lot of cases. If people abide by the requirements, then if test positive, they can’t travel. Therefore, we’re able to eliminate people with COVID coming into Guyana. I think the measures that we have in place have been working,” he underscored.

In Guyana, 421,131 adults or 82.1 per cent of adults have been immunised with a first dose COVID vaccine; while 209,160 or 60.3 per cent received a second dose. From the 12 to 17 category, 32,309 first doses and 22,688 second doses were administered – the lowest

uptake. Booster doses account for 35,014 jabs.

“One of the things I want to emphasise is that when we breakdown the vaccination number by age group, we would see that for the 12 to 17 age group, first dose vaccination would be 44.3 per cent and second dose at 31.1 per cent. So, the 12 to 17 remains the group with the lowest level of vaccination, both for first and second doses.”

With the rise of the new variant of concern Omicron last year, concerns were raised among countries with its link to high infections.

However, Guyanese authorities said they were awaiting more information before changes are made to its travel guidelines.

Along with the airport activity, the Lethem Crossing remains open for crossing of essential goods on Thursdays and travel on Fridays. The Moleson Creek Crossing between Guyana and Suriname is also operating daily.

NEWS

3

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

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

Wednesday, Jan 26 – 10:00h – 11:30h and Thursday, Jan 27 – 11:00h – 12:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Wednesday, Jan 26 – 10:40h – 12:10h and Thursday, Jan 27 – 11:55h – 13:25h.

Budget 2022 to address rising cost of living – President Ali ...says no new taxes to be included in budget

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY There will be sunshine during the day. Expect clear skies at night. Temperatures should range between 20 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North North-Easterly to Northerly between 1.78 metres and 5.36 metres.

High Tide: 10:50h and 23:34h reaching maximum heights of 2.37 metres and 2.26 metres.

Low Tide: 16:59h reaching a minimum height of 0.84 metre.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 22, 2022

LOTTERY NUMBERS F

12 16 17

20 21 22

FREE TICKET

27 Bonus Ball

TUESDAY, JANUARY 25, 2022

DAILY MILLIONS

02 04 05 15 16 LUCKY 3

9

7

2

7

Afternoon Draw

4

3

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

02 03 07 08 15 19 21 SUPER

PAY DAY

PAY DAY

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022

01 03 07 10 13 13

03 04 05 09 10

4

7 Afternoon Draw

2X Afternoon Draw

7

6 Evening Draw

2X 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

$88.20/barrel

Rough Rice

$270.09/ton

+0.17

London Sugar

$504.50/ton

-0.18

Live Spot Gold

+2.19

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1848.70

$1849.70

Low/High Change

$1834.40 +0.80

$1855.00 +0.04%

President Dr Irfaan Ali

B

udget 2022, set to be presented in the National Assembly today by Senior Minister with responsibility for Finance in the Office of the President Dr Ashni Singh, will have specific measures that will alleviate, among other things, the rising cost of living while at the same time looking to reduce the income tax burden on Guyanese.

This was revealed by President Dr Irfaan Ali, who in an address on Tuesday revealed that he has asked the Finance Minister to include specific measures that will cushion the impact of inflation, precipitated by the global COVID-19 pandemic that has driven up costs along the supply chain.

“I’m aware of the impact that cost of living is having.

While we cannot address all the issues surrounding cost of living, I’ve instructed that resources be set aside to ad-

dress this issue… this is a global issue, as the world is experiencing a 30 year high in inflation rates due to soaring food costs,” President Ali said.

“Notwithstanding all of this, this Government has made a commitment to do all it can within its budgetary constraint and framework, to help the population of this country. Therefore, I’ve asked the Minister to set aside a sizeable allocation to address issues of cost of living. And this sizeable allocation will be used through

According to the President, cost of living will be addressed in the budget

only remove all those burdensome taxes that were placed there on the backs of Guyanese by the APNU/ AFC Government. But also creating a robust economic environment that does not require increased taxes.”

Massive expansions

The President also promised “massive” expansions in health and education

consultations with communities across the country, to identify specific ways and initiatives in which we can deploy this allocation to ease the burden on the population.”

Additionally, President Ali emphasized that Budget 2022 will have measures to not only put more disposable income into the pockets of Guyanese but also continue to build on the Government’s “no new taxes” policy.

“I’ve asked the Minister of Finance to include specific measures that will be geared at enhancing and improving your disposable income. Ensuring that there is more money available to families and to the economy,” he said.

“While we enhance disposable income, I’ve also advised that we must maintain a low tax environment.

And this was a critical component of our manifesto. Ensuring that we not

According to President Ali, Guyanese can also look forward to massive expansions of health and educational services. According to the President, the Government’s aim is to make these services more accessible than ever before, while also increasing the quality of services.

Additionally, he assured that investments will be made into expanding access to treated water, and Information and Communications Technology (ICT), both on the coast and in the hinterland and riverine communities.

TURN TO PAGE 5

4

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022

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

Addressing the global surge in cost of living

A

s Guyanese wait in anticipation to hear the budget measures that would be read today, persons are already breathing a sigh of relief, as Head of State Dr Irfaan Ali, in a virtual address to the nation on Tuesday evening, said resources have been set aside to directly address the global surge in the cost of living.

It could be recalled that, just weeks ago, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) said that its Food Price Index continues to trend upwards, reaching a 10year high, despite a few months which registered small reductions, including December. In its report published on January 6, the FAO confirmed that food prices are continuing to rise, and not just in Guyana.

The report shows - and as was conveyed by FOA Representative to Guyana Dr Gillian Smith - that not Guyanese alone are experiencing the rise in food prices, but the rest of the world as well.

The factors contributing to the rise in individual commodity prices are numerous – including, and not limited to, food production levels (supply); demand; speculation (also plays a part in food prices’ fluctuations); potential impact of weather and environmental conditions; COVID-19 pandemic, increases in freight and logistics. The report had stated that, for a country such as Guyana, the situation of the global food commodities would have mixed impact. As an exporter, Guyana is affected by global prices it would receive for exports of rice and sugar. Guyana is also feeling the impact of higher prices for imported foods (processed and raw materials), feedstock and farming input supplies.

Based on the FAO’s Index, it is welcoming that the Head of State acknowledged the economic burden around the world, including Guyana. To quote him: “I am aware of the impact that cost of living is having. While we cannot address all the issues surrounding cost of living, I’ve instructed those resources be set aside to address this issue…this Government has a commitment to do all it can within its budgetary constraint and framework to help the population of this country…I’ve asked the Minister of Finance to set aside a sizeable allocation to address issues of cost of living. This sizeable allocation will be used through consultation with communities across the country to identify specific ways and initiatives in which we can deploy this budgeted allocation to ease the burden on the population.”

The issue of significant increase for the cost of food has burdened Guyanese with prices in the local markets at their highest levels in recent history. It is for this reason the pre-budget address to the nation has ease the minds of many, who have been facing the brunt of these increases.

If one could recall that a mere 38 days after taking the reins of power, the PPP/C Government presented a $330 billion Budget to be approved by the National Assembly.

That was commendable, considering the fact that, normally, undertaking such a task would take over three months. It meant that from the time the new Government was sworn in to office, it was engaged in working non-stop to understand what the country’s financial situation was at the time, and plan for the remainder of the financial year.

Based on the previous budget and the constraints faced, the Government must be applauded for taking immediate steps to provide assistance to families, and, in a broader sense, reverse the downward trend of the economy pre-2020 elections’ results.

From what we have seen so far, the economic policy of the Government has been very inclusive and wellthought-out. We are confident that, once again, in another Budget under this Government, the economy will continue to grow, and this positive effect will trickle down to ordinary citizens.

This Mike Charles photo shows an aerial view of the Aurora Gold Mine located in Region Seven (CuyunI-Mazaruni)

Budget 2022 is expected to further boost the Housing Sector Dear Editor, Just before taking office in August 2020, the Government promised that it was going to work to provide at least 50,000 house lots to Guyanese during this present term in office.

And, so far, it is more than on course to deliver.

With Budget 2022 set to be presented, the word is that “the Government of Guyana is aiming to accelerate an already robust housing plan that would include the distribution of 15,000 house lots for the year.”

This commitment came from Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal when he detailed, “I’m pleased about what we’re doing so far. We’ve done a lot, and if you think we’ve done a lot, wait till you see what we have planned for 2022. So, last year, when we started, we had to take stock of what was happening in the housing sector, and our examination showed nothing much was happening.

We also had to re-examine our commitment, and that is 50,000 allocations; and in addition to allocation, to construct houses.”

Collin Croal noted that work is not willy-nilly, as “our initial budget focused on access roads and bridges to commence, even allocation exercises were done before, for which no infrastructure work was done.

Then, in 2021, we had a number of allocations. In 16 months in office, we’ve allocated 10,000 house lots.

This year, you will find we will allocate at least 15,000.”

Authenticating the input into the housing sector, one can see that there are more sand trucks traversing our roadways that used to obtain during the pre-2020 era, between 2015 and 2018 specifically; and almost in every village, housing projects are ongoing, and employment is rife for many who were put off when housing was quite dead.

Right now, there are 50 core homes being constructed, and a few of those are expected to be handed over shortly in La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara (WBD). Also, the Minister detailed that core homes are being constructed in Sophia, on the ECD,

as well as on the WBD. According to him, Budget 2022, which will be the third budget under the PPP Government in this current tenure, will be the largest budget of all; will outline development programmes and projects, both continuing and new; and housing the nation will be quite prominent.

To this I say, “Why not?

The record shows that the Government of Guyana, in 2021, processed close to 2000 titles and transports in its first year in office, while starting construction on 1000 houses and conducting massive infra-

structural work, all part of a more-than-$14 billion investment in the housing sector, which has paid off well for the general citizenry.

Let me add that buying or building a home is indeed a great achievement, as the many benefits that come with owning a home make it all worthwhile.

Home owners, as we know, are building equity thereby, and they possess better living security, as they contribute to the overall well-being of the nation.

Yours truly, Alvin Hamilton

Robbery in Berbice

Dear Editor, I am from the diaspora, but I still keep up-to-date on a daily basis on what is taking place in Guyana.

Today I read about the businesswoman being robbed at a bank in Berbice. One paper said $30 million and another said $18.5.

Persons from the same family were robbed twice before, and they did not learn their lesson. Why on

earth would someone, especially a businesswoman, carry such a large sum of money without any proper protection? How much would it cost for armed security personnel to escort her?

I hope a lesson is being learnt from this last episode.

Regards, Kenneth Singh

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022

5

News

Process to select nominees for NRF Board of Directors commences – as motion sent to Appointments Committee

T

he process has been launched for the National Assembly, through the Parliamentary Committee of Appointments, to select one of the nominees for the Natural Resources Fund (NRF) Board of Directors.

The motion was moved in the wee hours of Tuesday morning. It seeks to task the Committee of Appointments with recommending to the National Assembly, a candidate to be appointed by President Dr Irfaan Ali to serve as one of the Directors of the Natural Resources Fund.

The motion states that “Whereas Section 5 (2) of the (NRF Act) provides that the Directors shall be selected from among persons who have wide expe-

Parliamentary Affairs Governance Minister Teixeira

and Gail

rience and ability in legal, financial, business or administrative matters, one of whom shall be nominated by the National Assembly and one of whom shall be a representative of the

Private Sector.”

“And whereas Section 5 (10) of the said Act provides that a person shall not be eligible for appointment as a Director if that person, inter alia, is a member of the National Assembly; And Whereas Standing Order 84 (3)(b) (iii) provides that it shall be the duty of the Committee on Appointments to make recommendations to the National Assembly on any matter referred to it by the Assembly from time to time,” the motion adds.

Meanwhile, Minister of Governance and Parliamentary Affairs Gail Teixeira, in an invited comment to this publication, explained that with the motion now sent to the Committee of Appointments, they will

have to meet to discuss a possible nominee who is not a Member of Parliament.

It is unclear when the Committee will meet on the issue, however, seeing as the National Assembly is presently in the midst of Budget 2022, which includes the reading of the budget today and the subsequent debating of the budget and perusal of the estimates, all before it is ultimately passed.

The parliamentary website lists Teixeira as the Chairperson of the Committee of Appointments. Also listed are Minister of Human Ser vices and Social Security Dr Vindhya Persaud, Minister within the Office of Prime Minister Kwame McCoy and Government Members

Budget 2022 to address...

“Budget 2022 will set aside a framework and the resources that will look at the massive expansion of our healthcare and educational system. Resources will be set aside to ensure the commencement of a programme that will see 90 per cent of our population along the coast, having access to treated water.”

“This is even beyond what we promised in the manifesto. But we are setting aside these resources because it is essential to the improvement of livelihood, improvement in our living standards.”

When it comes to energy, the President said that the 2022 budget would also put Guyana even further on the path of achieving a 50 per cent reduction in energy costs by 2025… by which time it is envisioned projects such as the Amaila Falls

Hydropower Project (AFHP) and the gas-to-shore project will come online.

“This is the year that will inject the fuel that will lead to the transformation we want to achieve. And Budget 2022 will inject that fuel to catalyse the growth in a forward-looking manner,” the President said.

The vulnerable

The President also assured that focus will be paid in the budget to make life easier for the vulnerable in society, such as the children and the elderly. According to Ali, investments will also be made in the security sector, towards ensuring that the Disciplined Services are well equipped to do their jobs.

“Budget 2022 will ensure children get more. Yes, I’ve instructed that specific measures be in the budget

to enhance the welfare and wellbeing of children so that children will get more. We’ll set aside greater support for the elderly. We’ll accelerate our scholarship programme.

We’ll support the vulnerable, create room for direct medical support for our population. And enhance investment in the security sector,” President Ali further promised.

Other issues the President mentioned that will be addressed are the withholding tax companies have had to navigate, as well as the reduction of taxes on double-cab pick-ups. The budget will also give effect to the Local Content Act passed in the National Assembly last year, while the housing, industrial, and manufacturing sectors will see massive investments.

Importantly, Budget 2022

FROM PAGE 3

will mark the first budget in Guyana’s history to be partly financed by oil revenues.

This will be Guyana’s first withdrawal from the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) since the country started collecting oil revenues in early 2020.

Currently, US$607 million sits in the fund. While the withdrawal rule restricts withdrawals from the Fund to deposits made in the previous fiscal year, the first schedule of the Natural Resource Fund Act 2021 allows an exception in the first year, giving the Government the latitude to withdraw the total balance in the Fund at once.

The Ministry of Finance has said that such a withdrawal is pertinent to address Guyana’s pressing development needs. Budget 2022 will be read today, January 26, from 14:00h.

A desperate APNU

Dear Editor, In another show of desperation, the Leader of the Opposition, Mr. Joseph Harmon, has filed two motions in the National Assembly.

These motions are bound to fail, as they represent a shameless and absurd attempt to seek relevance after the entire nation witnessed the hooliganism and despicable behaviour of the APNU+AFC MPs on December 29th, 2021.

Videos surfaced which showed what occurred within the Arthur Chung Convention Centre. No one can dispute

that what was done by the Opposition MPs was far from decent, and could be viewed as a hostile attempt at taking over the National Assembly.

This was despite the fact that the Speaker of the House continuously pleaded with them to discontinue their disruptive behaviour.

Recordings also showed that the Sergeant-at-Arms and a number of Opposition Parliamentarians wrestled for possession of the Mace.

The political immaturity demonstrated by the APNU+AFC MPs have since been strongly condemned by many Guyanese and Private

Sector organisations in Guyana. One Human Rights Association, The Association for Democracy and Human Rights (Guyana)(ADHR), in their statement last year, said it best: “The people of Guyana should be able to look to their elected representatives to preserve the national ethos as well as the traditional values and virtues that have long distinguished Guyanese society”.

The Parliament should never have descended into such a state of mayhem, which was deliberately planned by the Opposition APNU+AFC in their new-

est form of political gangsterism. Luckily, their incompetence caused them to fail disastrously, as the National Resource Fund Bill was successfully passed.

It is imperative to this nation and its people that we have an Opposition of substance, which genuinely has the people’s interest at heart and is less disrespectful, disruptive and destructive to the country, its people, and our image. This current bunch clearly does not.

All for your consideration, Erin Northe

of Parliament (MPs) Alister Charlie and Yvonne Fredericks-Pearson.

Meanwhile, the parliamentary Opposition A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) is represented on the Committee by MPs Annette Ferguson, Nicolette Henry, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley and Khemraj Ramjattan.

Earlier this month, President Ali had said that as the Head of State responsible for appointing them, he has been examining the names of potential members of the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Management Board.

The three-to-five-member Board is expected to be made up of mostly civil society representatives.

According to President Ali, the selection and appointment of the Board will be “urgent”. President Ali also made it clear that he will select the individuals to sit on the Board with the utmost integrity.

The NRF Act was passed in the National Assembly in December, amid chaos caused by the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Opposition who did their utmost to disrupt the proceedings after the Natural Resource Fund Bill was brought up for debate. The Bill has since been assented to by President Ali. The Bill provides for the

National Assembly to nominate one of the Directors, while another one will be a representative of the Private Sector. It was noted too that the Directors will hold the post for not more than two years with eligibility for reappointment, and all appointments, as well as changes in appointments, are to be gazetted and published on the Ministry’s website and in two daily newspapers.

The new Bill states that the Board of Directors will be responsible for the overall management of the Fund, reviewing and approving the policies of the Fund, monitoring the performance of the Fund, ensuring compliance with the approved policies of the Fund, and ensuring that the Fund is managed in compliance with the Act and all other applicable laws.

Moreover, the Board is also expected to report to the subject Minister, who is allowed to give policy directives as deemed necessary to their functions. In addition, the proposed legislation caters for the appointment of two committees, one of which is the Public Accountability and Oversight Committee, which will provide non-Government oversight of the Fund and comprises various civil society representatives who will have to present a report to the National Assembly annually.

6

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022

Page

Foundation ◄

Plane Geometry

Triangles cont’d

Triangles can also have names that tell you what types of angles are inside:

Area = ½ × b × h

The formula works for all triangles.

Note: a simpler way of writing the formula is bh/2 Example: What is the area of this triangle?

I

n this fun and easy kitchen science experiment for kids, we’re going to see if we can create a chemical reaction that makes it easy to smash seashells.

Materials:

Four seashells Two glasses Water Vinegar Large spoon Paper plate

Instructions:

Perimeter of a triangle

The perimeter is the distance around the edge of the triangle: just add up the three sides:

(Note: 12 is the height, not the length of the left-hand side)

Height = h = 12 Base = b = 20 Area = ½ × b × h = ½ × 20 × 12 = 120 The base can be any side, Just be sure the "height" is measured at right angles to the "base": The area is half of the base times height.

• "b" is the distance along the base • "h" is the height (measured at right angles to the base)

Fill one glass with water and one glass with vinegar.

Place two seashells in the glass filled with water and two seashells in the glass with vinegar.

Wait five days.

Remove the seashells and place them on a paper plate.

Take the spoon and hit the seashells that were placed in the water and see if they break.

Now take the spoon and hit the seashells

that were placed in the vinegar. They should smash easily.

How it works:

Vinegar is an acid and the calcium carbonate in the seashells is a base. When you add the seashells to vinegar, bubbles start to form on the seashells. This is a result of the chemical reaction between the calcium carbonate and vinegar. This chemical reaction produces a gas called carbon dioxide, and this is what causes the little bubbles on the seashells.

Eventually, the vinegar will weaken the seashells and make them easy to smash with the spoon.

Make this a science project:

Try different liquids like lemon juice. Try putting eggs or eggshells in vinegar. Try keeping the experiment stored in the refrigerator. (sciencefun. org)

By Martin Carter

This is the dark time, my love, All round the land brown beetles crawl about.

The shining sun is hidden in the sky Red flowers bend their heads in awful sorrow.

This is the dark time, my love, It is the season of oppression, dark metal, and tears.

It is the festival of guns, the carnival of misery.

Everywhere the faces of men are strained and anxious.

Who comes walking in the dark night time?

Whose boot of steel tramps down the slender grass?

It is the man of death, my love, the strange invader Watching you sleep and aiming at your dream.

Why is area "half of bh"?

Imagine you "doubled" the triangle (flipped it around one of the upper edges) to make a square-like shape (a parallelogram) which can be changed to a simple rectangle.

THEN the whole area is bh, which is for both triangles, so just one is ½ × bh.

Teacher's Tip “The only person who can stop you from reaching your goals is you.”

– Jackie Joyner-Kersee

WORD SEARCH

7 Wales to become 1 of the largest industrial zones in Caribbean – Natural Resources Minister NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

– as Opposition efforts to delay project defeated in parliamentary vote

T

he Wales Development Zone (WDZ) will be one of the largest industrial zones in the Caribbean. This was revealed by Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat in his contributions in the National Assembly prior to the defeat of the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) motion to delay the gas-toshore project.

Several Members of Parliament (MPs) from both sides of the aisle spoke on the motion, which came in the name of Opposition MP David Patterson. When it was his turn, Minister Bharrat emphasised the benefits of the gas-to-shore project and WDZ. “Our biggest problem and hindrance to further development and to develop our country at a faster

The Wales Development Zone

rate is the cost and reliability of power generation.

Yes, we heard a lot of comments about blackouts,” he said.

“For decades now we’ve been experiencing black-

outs. But this project will put an end to that. Do we want our children to continue and come to the Parliament and to live in blackouts? Do we want the next set of parliamentar-

ians to come in here and still speak about blackouts? Or do we want to end it?”

Additionally, the Minister stressed that Wales was deemed the best location for the pipeline and the Wales Development Zone, which he said would be one of the largest industrial parks in the Caribbean.

“We’re not only building a power plant. We have what we call the Wales Development Area. And in the Wales Development Area, the power plant is one component. But that area will be earmarked to be one of the largest man-

ufacturing industrial parks in the Caribbean, if I may say so.”

“Because we will have cheap, reliable, clean power available right there.

We have access to the Demerara River right there.

We have the availability of land, most importantly. We have labour force,” Minister Bharrat said.

The Minister also noted the importance of the project from an environmental standpoint, since it can serve as a transitionary energy source for Guyana’s efforts to go green and advance its goals of 70 per cent emissions reduction by 2030.

TURN TO PAGE 8

8 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Police Constable charged for perverting the course of justice

P

olice Constable Mario Parasram, 28, of B Field South Sophia, Greater Georgetown, was on Tuesday arraigned for attempting to pervert the course of justice.

Parasram, who is attached to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters, appeared before Magistrate

Charged: Mario Parasram

Wales to become 1...

“The conversation on the environment and cutting emissions has grown of recent. And because of that, we recognise that the gas-to-energy project is a move in the right direction.

It is transition energy and a part of our energy mix, to ensure we supply power for development to take place.”

He also referenced APNU/AFC MP Dr Karen Cummings, who in an earlier presentation on the Human Organ Transplant

Bill had called on the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) to apply the brakes on the passage of the Bill and send it to the Special Select Committee.

“I’m happy that the honourable member, Dr Cummings, is still here. It was mentioned by the honourable member when she was on the floor earlier on a previous Bill, when she said that we need to mash the breaks and slow down the pace. And that is a se-

Rondell Weaver at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

According to information received, between Wednesday, June 9, 2021, and Tuesday July 6, 2021, in the Georgetown Magisterial District of Demerara, Parasram wilfully attempted to obstruct or pervert the course of justice by demand-

ing the sum of $200,000 from one Patris Petrie to prevent the institution of a criminal charge against him.

The Police prosecutor did not object to Parasram being released on bail, and as such, he was released on $100,000 bail.

Parasram will make his next court appearance on February 22, 2022.

FROM PAGE 7

cret that was let out today by the APNU/AFC,” the Natural Resources Minister said.

“The pace at which we’re moving, they cannot handle it. Even though we’re in the midst of a pandemic and there was a massive flood last year, the pace at which people’s lives are improving is unprecedented. And the problem is the APNU/ AFC is getting worried by the day,” Minister Bharrat added.

The motion, which if successful would have put the project on hold and sent it to a Special Select Committee, was put to the vote and a division called, with the Government side ultimately emerging victorious.

The motion was defeated by a 32 to 27 margin. According to the Clerk of the National Assembly, Sherlock Issacs, one unnamed member declined to vote.

Growth...

W

…vs development? e’ve been hearing a great deal about how our economy’s grown, is growing - and will be growing. But, as usual, the ultimate question on your (pragmatic) Eyewitness’s mind is: “What’s in it for me, budday?” And in this, he doesn’t buy the argument that he might be selfish. No siree Bob!! He was weaned on the insight that the wealth of nations is based on the individual looking out for his own interest, and - if everybody follows suit - an “invisible hand” would ensure everything’s gonna be alright!!

But why’s everyone in the world not at the same level of prosperity? How come there’s that fella from Tesla worth trillions and, at the same time, there are vagrants even in the great US of A?? Not to mention lining the streets of Georgetown at night! Well, the man who extolled self-interest did say there’d be an INVISIBLE HAND; he did not say there would be “NO Hand”!! And the biggest hand of all is YOUR hand - since you’ve got skin in the game to move up the ladder! The other big hand is the Government’s - since we put them there to look at the big picture and institute policies that facilitate our efforts to move up!

And that’s the lesson a whole lotta folks forget. No matter what the Government does - or (like the PNC) doesn’t do - it boils down to us. We’ve gotta “try and try again, boy, till we succeed at last!” And mostly we’ll do this in obscurity, but to do otherwise is to GUARANTEE you won’t get a piece of the pie.

Your Eyewitness was inspired by all the anecdotes about Yesu Persaud, that’s coming out of the woodwork since his passing. And what’s clear is that he never gave up trying. You can’t start lower on the ladder of the economy than catching rats on a sugar plantation!!

Then, of course, there’s the Government’s hand.

A very big hand, if you will!! Using Burnham’s failures as an object lesson, your Eyewitness doesn’t believe Governments should actually be in business. Some may say, “Look how well the Chinese have done, and THEIR Government owns a helluva lot of businesses!!” Well, let’s not go down that rabbit hole! Save to say that much of their success has to do with the individual hands of their people; their willingness to do whatever it takes to succeed!! Our Govt’s focusing on infrastructure, and making some great strategic decisions on diversification with the oil money. So, there will be a whole lotta opportunities for us to take advantage of. Are we getting prepared with those free 20,000 scholarships?

So, for sure, the economy’s gonna grow. But are we all gonna develop? That’s left to each of us!! …via rum Your Eyewitness has heard about the ability of these internet companies to tap into your conversations and send you ads about words mentioned. But imagine his surprise when, after Yesu’s passing, he received this ad on a vintage rum that the magnate had the foresight to produce from GDL’s stills which DDL took over!! “Uitvlugt 26-year-old 1991, Berry Bross and Ruff Exclusive Cask #38, 55.3%.”

“This barrel was filled in December 1991, and bottled in 2018, yielding 227 bottles at 55.3%. And it is a classy affair. The nose is tremendously balanced with notes of sandalwood and a touch of tobacco. Beeswax and, just as you want and expect, lovely overripe tropical fruits bringing the sweetness in. The palate continues the depth and complexity. blood oranges are notable with herbs, cocoa and walnut, but it is the coastal notes that bring a surprise. Etc, etc…”

Only trouble is they’re going for at least $150,000 a bottle!! Your Eyewitness will stick to his Topco juice!! …and tough love Well, eight of the PNC MPs who staged that obscene scene in Parliament - especially stealing and abusing the Mace - have been sent to the Privileges Committee.

To use their Founder-Leader’s pet phrase, we hope they’ll be “dealt with condignly”.

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

NEWS

9

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

APNU leadership squabble

Norton elected APNU Chairman as Granger resigns – Harmon to resign as General Secretary in 7 days – Granger continues as Representative of List

PNC Leader and APNU Chairman, Aubrey Norton

I

n a major power shift within the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) coalition, People’s National Congress (PNC) Leader Aubrey Norton has been elected Chairman of APNU following his predecessor David Granger’s resignation with immediate effect.

According to a statement from Congress Place, a meeting occurred on Tuesday between Granger, Norton and APNU General Secretary Joseph Harmon. Also attending the meeting were Jaipaul Sharma, leader of Equal Rights and Justice Party, Vincent Henry of

the Guyana Action Party, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley of the Guyana Nation Builders and Keith Scott of the National Front Alliance.

At the meeting, both Granger and Harmon formally communicated their decision to step down from their respective positions. While Granger’s resignation was accepted with immediate effect, the APNU Executive requested Harmon to stay on for at least 7 days to ensure the smooth transition to a new General Secretary.

In the wake of Granger’s resignation, Norton was

elected as APNU Chairman.

It is unclear what the process will be to fill the position of General Secretary once Harmon finally steps down.

According to the party, “Members of the Executive thanked the outgoing Chair and General Secretary for their role in advancing the idea of the APNU to what it is today.”

On Monday, Granger and Harmon had met with AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan.

Also attending the meeting were Chairman of the AFC Raphael Trotman; Vice Chair of the AFC Catherine Hughes and General Secretary of the AFC, David Patterson.

It was at this meeting that it was first communicated that Granger would be willing to step down as APNU Chairman.

However, there is still no word on Granger’s status as Representative of the List of Candidates for APNU. Despite Norton being backed by the PNCR Executive for the position of Representative of the List and Opposition Leader, neither Granger nor Harmon have displayed any willingness to give up those posts.

Harmon, who lost his bid for the PNCR leadership to Norton, has since insist-

Former APNU Chairman David Granger and Joseph Harmon

ed that he should remain Opposition Leader. Harmon was also not re-elected to the PNC’s Central Executive Committee (CEC) – the highest decision-making body of the party.

The APNU has already issued a statement noting that “the members of A Partnership for National Unity have had no reason to question the abilities of David Granger and

Khemraj Ramjattan as Head and Deputy Head of the List of the APNU/AFC, we have had no reason to question the leadership of Joseph Harmon as Leader of the Opposition and we have had no reasons to question the abilities of any Member of Parliament.

While we are yet to meet with the new PNCR Leader Mr Aubrey Norton, we are expecting to have

a good working relationship with him as we’ve had with former President David Granger.”

Ramjattan has meanwhile previously made it clear that the established procedures must be followed before the Leader of the Opposition or Representative of the List of the APNU/AFC coalition can be changed.

10 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

10 more succumb to COVID, 372 new cases detected in 24h GUYANA COVID-19 DASHBOARD JANUARY 25, 2022 UPDATE

T

he Health Ministry on Tuesday reported that another 10 persons who tested positive for COVID-19 have succumbed, thus taking the death toll to 1148.

These fatalities include an 80-year-old female from Region Three who died on January 21.

Later, on January 22, a 73-year-old woman from Region Two died. The fatalities on January 23 included three males: a 45-year-old from Region Six; a 64-yearold from Region Four and a 65-year-old from Region Six. On January 24, four deaths were recorded. These are two women - aged 76 and 95 from Region Four; a 62-year-old male from Region Five and a 62-year-old woman from Region Seven. The latest death was recorded

on January 25; a 67-year-old from Region Four.

However, new statistics released by the Health Ministry showed that a total of 372 new infections were detected in one day, taking confirmed cases to 57,772 – 26,712 males and 31,060 females.

There are 163 patients in institutional isolation, 12,682 in home isolation, and 11 in institutional quarantine. Some 43,759 persons have recovered while 495,766 tests have been conducted. Active cases stand at 12,765.

Of the 133 persons in hospitals across the country, 91 are being treated at the Infectious Diseases Hospital.

This also includes 20 in the Intensive Care Unit.

In his public briefing on Tuesday, Health Minister,

Dr Frank Anthony said a majority of severe COVID-19 cases in the system are unvaccinated against the life-threatening virus.

“One of the things we have noticed is that persons who are now coming in with a severe form of COVID disease, most of them did not take their vaccines. That is unfortunate because a lot of these patients also have comorbidities. It is important for people to understand that while the vaccinations might not prevent the transmission of COVID infections or SARS-COV-2, what it does is helping to prevent the more severe form of the disease,” he highlighted.

In the 60 and older group, he indicated that many are suffering from comorbidities or underlying conditions which increases their risks

NUMBER OF NEW CASES

372

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL ISOLATION

163

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN HOME ISOLATION

12,682

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN COVID-19 ICU

20

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL QUARANTINE

11

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (FEMALES)

31,060

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (MALES)

26,712

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES IN GUYANA SINCE 2020

57,772

NUMBER OF RECOVERED CASES

43,759

REGION 1

2009

REGION 2

2193

REGION 3

7534

REGION 4

29,030

REGION 5

2169

REGION 6

5213

REGION 7

2300

REGION 8

737

REGION 9

3292

REGION 10

3295

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

TOTAL 1st DOSE VACCINATED

420,591

FULLY IMMUNISED

308,392

TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES SINCE MARCH 2020

1148

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.

after contraction.

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

This order emphasises the need for everyone, 12 years and older to get vaccinated

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

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

NEWS

11

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Mega-projects will be completed under PPP/C Govt’s first term – PM assures Guyana that, in a transparent manner, all the mega-projects will be man-

P

Prime Minister Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips

rime Minister Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips has reassured the nation that all the mega-projects of the PPP/C Government would be completed during its first five years in office.

PM Phillips took to the floor of the National Assembly in the wee hours of Tuesday to add his voice to a motion brought by Opposition Member of Parliament David Patterson, who had asked that the House put the massive Gas-to-Shore project on hold, and have it sent to the Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Natural Resources for further review.

That motion was voted down by the Government side of the house.

The Prime Minister noted that the project, like all others initiated by the Government, would be executed and would benefit all Guyanese.

“Mr. Speaker, the hon-

ourable member [David Patterson] does not produce any report that says clearly to this hoax that the Wales Gas-to-Shore project is not feasible. The gas-to-shore project will be a reality in this term of the PPP/C. Mr. Speaker, we have a manifesto where we told the people that we will deliver all the energy mix, that will comprise solar, hydro and wind; and, Mr. Speaker, we have singled out the Gas-toShore project for completion before December 2025,” the Prime Minister added.

In like fashion, PM Phillips reassured Guyanese that construction of the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project would begin before the December 2025 timeline.

Affirming that the rhetoric of the Opposition was destined for failure, he reminded that Guyanese would have by now been paying a fraction of the cost for electricity had the then

APNU/AFC Opposition not voted against the project.

“Had they supported that project, the people of Guyana would have been benefiting from energy at a far reduced cost than we are paying today, since 2017.

And that is what we expect the honourable member to come and remind us also, and not to get involved in revisionism.”

Another major project that would be completed before the five-year term of the Government expires is the construction of the Lindento-Mabura Hill highway.

That road is the gateway to Guyana’s mineral-rich interior.

The Prime Minister has said Guyanese can rest assured that under the PPP/C Government there will be good governance. He noted that Guyana is on a development trajectory.

“I want to assure this house and all the people of

aged to completion by this Government. That is our promise to the people of

Guyana,” PM Phillips affirmed.

12

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26,, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

13

I

ndia completed vaccination of 1.6 billion doses on 16th January 2022, in just about 11½ months since starting vaccination. This has been a tremendous journey in dealing with COVID-19, especially when we recall how things stood in early 2020. Humanity was dealing with such a pandemic after 100 years and no-one knew much about the virus. We remember how unpredictable the situation appeared then, as we were faced by an unknown and invisible enemy mutating rapidly.

The journey from anxiety to assurance has happened and our nation has emerged stronger, thanks to the world’s largest vaccination drive.

It has been a truly “Bhagirath” effort involving multiple sections of society. To get a sense of the scale, assume that each vaccination took just two minutes for a healthcare worker. At this rate, it took around 4.1 million man days or approximately 11,000 man years of effort to reach this landmark.

For any effort to attain and sustain speed and scale, trust of all stakeholders is crucial. One of the reasons for the success of the campaign was the trust that people developed in the vaccine and the process followed, despite various efforts to create mistrust and panic.

There are some among us who only trust foreign brands, even for simply everyday necessities. However, when it came to something as crucial as the COVID-19 vaccine, the people of India unanimously trusted ‘Made in India’ vaccines. This is a significant paradigm shift.

India’s vaccine drive is an example of what India can achieve if the citizens and the government come together with a common goal in the spirit of Jan Bhagidari. When India started its vaccination programme, there were many people who doubted the capabilities of 1.3 billion Indians. Some said India would take 3-4 years. Some others said people will not come forward to get vaccinated. There were those who said there will be gross mismanagement and chaos in the vaccination process. Some even said that India will not be able to manage supply chains. But just like the Janta Curfew and subsequent lockdowns, the people of India showed how spectacular the results can be, if they are made trusted partners.

When everyone takes ownership, nothing is impossible.

Our healthcare workers traversed hills and crossed rivers across difficult geographies to vaccinate people. Our youth, social workers, healthcare workers, social and religious leaders, all deserve credit for the fact that India faces minimal

vaccine hesitancy when compared to even developed nations.

There was a lot of pressure from different interest groups to give preferential treatment to them in vaccination. But the Government ensured that, like our other schemes, there is no VIP culture in the vaccination drive either.

In early 2020, when COVID-19 was rampaging across the world, it was clear to us that this pandemic will have to be eventually fought with the help of vaccines. We started preparing early. We constituted expert groups and started preparing a roadmap right from April 2020.

Till today, only a handful of countries have developed their own vaccines. More than 180 countries are dependent on an extremely limited pool of producers and dozens of nations are still waiting for the supply of vaccines, even as India has crossed 1.6 billion doses! Imagine the situation if India did not have its own vaccine. How would have India secured enough vaccines for such a large population and how many years would that have taken? It is here that credit should be given to Indian scientists and entrepreneurs for rising to the occasion. It is due to their talent and hard-work that India is truly Aatmanirbhar when it comes to vaccines. Our vaccine manufacturers, by scaling up to meet the demands of such a large population, have shown that they are second to none.

In a nation where governments used to be known as a roadblock impeding forward movement, our government has instead been an accelerator and enabler of progress. The government partnered with the vaccine makers right from day one and gave them support in the form of institutional assistance, scientific research, funding, as well as accelerated regulatory processes. All ministries of the government came together to facilitate the vaccine makers and remove any bottlenecks as a result of our ‘whole of Government’ approach.

In a country of the scale of India, it is not enough to just produce. Focus has to be on last mile delivery and seamless

logistics. To understand the challenges involved, imagine the journey taken by one vial of vaccines. From a plant in Pune or Hyderabad, the vial is sent to a hub in any of the states, from where it is transported to the district hub. From there, it reaches a vaccination centre. This entails the deployment of thousands of trips taken by flights and trains. During this entire journey, the temperature has to be maintained in a particular range which is centrally monitored. For this, over 100,000 cold-chain equipment were utilised. States were given advance notice of the delivery schedule of the vaccines so that they could plan their drives better and vaccines reached them on the pre-decided days. This has been an unprecedented effort in the history of Independent India.

All these efforts were complemented by a robust tech platform in CoWIN. It ensured that the vaccine drive was equitable, scalable, trackable and transparent. This ensured that there was no scope for favouritism or jumping the queue. It also ensured that a poor worker could take first dose in his village and the second dose of the same vaccine in the city where he works, after the required time interval. In addition to a real-time dashboard to boost transparency, the QR-coded certificates ensured verifiability. There are hardly any examples of such efforts not only in India but also the world.

In my Independence Day Address in 2015, I had said that our country is moving ahead because of ‘Team India’ and this ‘Team India’ is a big team of our 1.3 billion people. People’s participation is the biggest strength of democracy. If we run the country through the participation of 1.3 billion Indians, our country will be moving ahead 1.3 billion steps every moment. Our vaccination drive has yet again showed the power of this ‘Team India’. India’s success in its vaccination drive has also demonstrated to the whole world that ‘democracy can deliver’.

I am optimistic that the success achieved in the world’s largest vaccination drive will further spur our youth, our innovators and all levels of government to set new benchmarks of public service delivery which will be a model not only for our country, but also for the world.

Excerpt From “The India Way”

By Dr S. Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister of India Published by Harper Collins India Company Ltd.

“E

ven otherwise, our world was moving discernibly towards an era of greater disruption, stronger nationalism, sharper competitiveness and a questioning of rules and regimes. And along came a virus that first devastated Wuhan and then proceeded to engulf the entire world. Quite apart from the enormous number of deaths it caused, millions have lost their livelihood across nations.

Societies that were confident of their future saw the prospect of growth evaporate before their very eyes.

An American view of economic security being central to national security had put pressure on offshoring practices and global supply chains, while also enhancing technology sensitivity. But after the coronavirus, there is now an additional layer of health security being added to the mix.

The availability of medicines, masks, personal protective equipment and testing kits during the pandemic graphically brought out national vulnerabilities across the world. Comparatively at least, we will see more de-globalisation, regionalisation, de-coupling, self-reliance and shorter supply chains.

If the virus has aggravated differences and further politicised the economy, its impact on self-interest is no less. Corona nationalism is

now its latest incarnation. During the pandemic, we have seen nations pursue their health security goals with little regard for the welfare of others. Some used their economic clout openly, while others forgot their regional solidarity.

This then brings us to the state of multilateralism. That it could not rise effectively to the occasion has hardly enhanced its stature. Quite apart from controversies in that domain, there was little visible leadership when it came to defining the agenda or setting directions. What it reminds us is that the quality of multilateralism is eventually dependent on the extent of consensus among major powers. And that, as we all know, has been in short supply for some time.

As a result, bodies and agendas have themselves become a trial of strength rather than a common landing zone. Leave alone multilateralism, even our understanding of globalisation has changed as a result of recent developments.

But as with the case of climate change or terrorism, pandemics have now demonstrated that there are issues on which no one can really stay out. Such realities cannot be a subject of calculations or negotiations as they reflect a more indivisible existence.

So where does all of this leave India? It is a polity which would strengthen stability and add

to reassurance at a time of global volatility. Its influence will contribute to world rebalancing and shape the pace of multipolarity, political or economic. Its strong bonding with the global South is critical to ensuring that developmental priorities and natural justice are not disregarded. As an advocate of reformed multilateralism, it can support genuine collective endeavours even in a more nationalistic era. And as a civilisational power coming back on the global stage, it would be another powerful example of return of history. Today’s India also demonstrates that the spread of democracy can lead to a more vivid expression of beliefs and traditions. At the same time, India’s progress in social development has the potential to make it a key source of trusted talent for the global knowledge-based economy.

These are some of the factors as the world examines the accommodation that will inevitably accompany India’s rise. How they deal with each other will reflect a mix of compulsions and convergences, whether they be of geopolitics, technology, markets or culture.

Naturally, India too will be shaped by the broad trends in the global environment that the coronavirus will intensify. As India has discovered in the past, economic strategies have to be in consonance not only with its own national sit-

uation, but the global one as well.

Both national circumstances and global situation call for a much greater emphasis on self-reliance (Atmanirbharta). It is only when its own production flourishes at home that India can make an economic difference abroad.

Therefore, a greater emphasis on Make in India, obviously not just for India but for the world. We must also be more caring of our own interests and support them to compete globally.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

14 Message from the High Commissioner of India, Dr K J Srinivasa

N

amaste!

On this auspicious occasion of the 73rd Republic Day, I take the opportunity to convey my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to the 1.3 billion Indians across the world and to all our friends from Guyana. Guyana and India share a deep bond dating back to over 180 years ago. Currently, India is tackling another Corona wave with caution and alertness. Parallelly, India is also moving ahead in the economic field with many promising results with IMF and the World Bank predicting 8.5 per cent GDP growth rates. Today India is filled with the excitement of the celebrations of 75 years of its independence and also with the confidence of having administered 1.6 billion corona vaccine doses in just one year.

A strong democracy like India has gifted the whole world a bouquet of hope with democracy, technology and the temperament and the talent of us Indians. During the Corona time, we have seen how India, following the vision of ‘One Earth, One Health’, is saving millions of lives by providing necessary medicines and vaccines to many countries. Today India is the world’s third largest pharma producer; it’s a pharmacy to the world. India is among those countries of the world whose health professionals and doctors are winning everyone’s trust through their sensitivity and expertise. During this crisis, India’s IT sector has saved all the countries of the world by working round the clock. Today India is sending record software engineers to the world. More than five million software developers are working in India. Today India has the third largest number of Unicorns in the world. More than 10 thousand startups have been registered in the last six months. Today India has a huge, secure and successful digital payments platform.

Last month alone, 4.4 billion transactions have been done through Unified Payments Interface in India. The digital infrastructure that India has developed and adopted over the years has become a huge strength of India today.

India is promoting Ease of Doing Business and minimising government interference. India has regained the confidence of the business community by reforming measures like retrospective taxes.

India has also deregulated many sectors like Drones, Space and Geo-spatial mapping. India has made major reforms in the outdated telecom regulations related to IT sector and BPO. India is committed to becoming a trusted partner in the world in global supplychains. We are making way for free-trade agreement with many countries. The ability of Indians to adopt innovation, new technology; the spirit of entrepreneurship of Indians; can give new energy to every global partner of ours. So this is the best time to invest in India. Entrepreneurship among Indian youth is at a new height today. Startup numbers have crossed 60,000 today. It also has more than 80 unicorns, of which more than 40 formed in 2021 alone.

Expat Indians are showing their skills on the global stage.

India’s commitment to deep economic reforms is another major reason that is making India the most attractive destination for investment today. The biggest projects to modernise digital and physical infrastructure gained unprecedented momentum during the pandemic. More than 600,000 villages in the country are being connected with optical fibre. Notably, an investment of $1.3 trillion is being made, especially on connectivity infrastructure.

Through innovative financing tools like asset monetisation, a target to generate $80 billion has been set.

While following the path of self-reliance, India’s focus is not only on easing the processes, but also on incentivising investment and production. Production Linked Incentive schemes worth $26 billion have been implemented in 14 sectors. The $10 billion incentive plan to roll out the fab,

chip and display industry is a testament to our commitment to making the global supply chain smooth.

We are moving ahead with the spirit of Make in India, Make for the world. Along with telecom, insurance, defence and aerospace, now there are limitless possibilities offered by India in the field of semiconductors as well.

India has set a target of net zero by 2070.

India, with 17 per cent of the world’s population, may contribute five per cent, only five per cent in Global Carbon Emission, but our commitment to tackle Climate Challenge is 100 per cent. Initiatives like International Solar Alliance and Coalition for Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure for Climate Adaptation are proof of this. As a result of the efforts of the past years, today 40 per cent of our Energy Mix is coming from non-fossil fuel sources. We have already achieved the commitments made

by India in Paris, nine years before their target.

Today, at the beginning of 2022, India also considers its responsibility to make everyone aware of few more challenges.

Supply chain disruptions, inflation, climate change and cryptocurrency are few examples of these challenges. But looking at the global scenario today, the question is whether multilateral organisations are ready to deal with the new world order and new challenges?

Indian collaboration with Guyana continues with Lines of Credit and Grants worth around US$ 100 million being coordinated for various projects like the East Bank-East Coast Road Linkage Project, Ocean Ferry Vessel, Fixed and Mobile Pumps, Upgradation of Three Primary Health Centres, Solar Home Lighting System for 30,000 homes and the solarisation of the Cheddi Jagan Airport, deputation of experts for the sugar/legal/aquaculture sectors and medical patient record system etc. India and Guyana continue to collaborate on the cultural front and to explore cooperation in SMEs. India is willing to play an active role in Guyana’s hydrocarbon sector, especially, being a long-term buyer for Guyana’s share of crude oil. Over 4,500 Guyanese students are studying in two Indian universities under the GOAL programme. Every year, over 50 students go to India under the ITEC scholarships -one of the most distinguished ITEC alumni being HE President of Guyana, Dr Irfaan Ali himself. Fourteen students go to India under the Commonwealth scholarships and to also train in Indian culture, dance and music. From 2021, India has begun giving 19 ITEC training slots for the GDF, which heralds a new era in bilateral cooperation. Both India and Guyana cooperate and support each other in many multilateral organisations and share a common world view on many issues. Our South South cooperation is based on a developmental agenda. India stood by Guyana to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and was the first responder to send vaccines to Guyana, the Caribbean and many other parts of the world. India sees such cooperation as part of our vision of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – “The world is one family”.

The contribution of the Indian Diaspora in the region is commendable.

India cherishes its partnership and friendship with Guyana. I hope sincerely that 2022 brings in health, happiness and prosperity to all our people and deliverance from the pandemic. Let’s work together to further strengthen our bonds.

Long live India-Guyana friendship!

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

By Harsh Vardhan Shringla

A

s the COVID-19 virus ebbs and wanes, postpandemic realities are beginning to emerge.

They underlie a growing set of understandings and arrangements that form the basis of an emerging world order.

Empirically speaking, downturns are followed by recovery. The Indian economy is beginning to bounce back with economic output and activity surging. A vaccination campaign of unprecedented scope and complexity has improved health security and reduced vulnerabilities in record time. The stage is set for a return to normalcy and more.

This is, therefore, a moment of opportunity. The choices that India makes at this juncture are an indication of where it sees promise of a better tomorrow.

The pandemic has demonstrated that we need a more, and not less, interconnected world. Common problems must have common solutions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, over the last few months, has in the G7, G20, in COP 26, in the first Quad Summit, in the United Nations General Assembly and as Chair of the UN Security Council, BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Council of Heads of Government, articulated a vision of a new world order that is relevant to the challenges of the post-pandemic world. He has also, through a variety of domestic and international platforms, laid down a set of strategies and objectives which will align Indian priorities with this vision for a better tomorrow for all.

A major global challenge on which India has acted to provide leadership and direction is climate change.

Despite our developmental needs, we have shown a strong commitment to climate action.

Speaking most recently at the COP26 Summit in Glasgow, the Prime Minister outlined India’s climate ambition through Panchamrit which will put India on an accelerated track to raise non-fossil fuel-based energy capacity to 500GW and meet 50 per cent of our energy requirements from renewables by 2030 while reducing projected carbon emissions by a billion tonnes and carbon intensity to below 45 per cent until 2030 and to “net zero” by 2070. Articulating the concerns of the developing world, the Prime Minister also called on developed countries to enhance their ambition on the transfer of climate finance and low-cost technologies.

Two international organisations, the International Solar Alliance and Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, initiated by India, have begun to play an important role in climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts globally. At COP26, the Prime Minister launched the ‘One Sun, One World, One Grid’ for interconnected solar energy infrastructure at a global scale and ‘Infrastructure for Resilient Island States’ for climate and disaster resilient infrastructure in Small Island Developing States under these organisations.

India is also seeking to turn into a global hub for Green Hydrogen production and export under its National Hydrogen Mission.

The Prime Minister’s appeal for promoting sustainable lifestyles to deal with climate change found resonance at the G20 Summit in Rome. He has proposed a One-Word Movement, i.e., LIFE or Lifestyle for Environment. The adoption of India’s own example of sustainable lifestyle on a global basis would be transformational in our fight against climate change.

The pandemic has highlighted the need to de-risk supply chains and make them more resilient. Prime Minister has emphasised three key factors for improving our supply chains: Trusted Source, Transparency and Time-Frame.

The Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan prioritises resilience and reliability and intends to make India a trustworthy supply chain hub. This is a part of a larger

policy framework to augment capacity through fiscal and monetary support, injection of liquidity, financial support for industry, better ease of doing business, and ambitious structural reforms. A landmark Production Linked Incentives scheme is attracting investment, boosting domestic manufacturing and creating globally competitive Indian businesses. Previously restricted sectors such as space, defense and atomic energy have been opened to greater private participation.

A National Education Policy has created the framework for educating a 21st century workforce and making India a global education and skilling centre.

India is also making massive public investments in improving its infrastructure. Prime Minister’s Gati Shakti – the National Master Plan for Multimodal Connectivity – is set to create a seamlessly connected India. It introduces a non-siloed approach to connectivity and brings executing and policy entities onto a common platform.

Improvements in physical infrastructure will be accompanied by focus on SDG goals by initiatives such as those on digital connectivity, financial inclusion and immunisation. The JAM trinity, composed of Jan Dhan, the world’s largest financial inclusion programme; Aadhar, the world’s largest biometric programme; and one of the world’s largest mobile phone networks; has enabled Direct Benefits Transfer on a transformational scale. It is now powering a fintech revolution. Jal Jeevan and Ayushman Bharat are changing lives by providing access to clean water and healthcare, respectively, to all Indians.

SDG 3 sets us all towards the target of ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages. At the G20 Summit, Prime Minister put forward the holistic vision of “One Earth – One Health” for the world.

The pandemic has moved international systems to the digital space. Whether it is the Co-Win Portal that has managed one of the world’s most ambitious vaccination operations in a user-friendly, transparent, equitable and efficient manner; the Digital India initiative; digital payment solutions; or the 24*7 BPO and ITES industry -- India has adapted and continues to go digital.

Speaking at the G20 Summit, the Prime Minister pointed out that India has certified ‘at scale’ solutions for many developmental problems. It is a proving ground of development. It also has vast experience of South-South Development Cooperation and can offer many templates to other developing countries. Earlier, at the G7 Summit, the Prime Minister had announced that Indian open source digital solutions would be available to all.

Even during the bleakest days of the pandemic, India did not forget that it was part of an international community. It went out of its way to supply essential medicines to more than a 150 countries. It received, in its turn, the support of all, during its “second wave”.

While running a successful vaccination campaign at home, India has also now resumed export of vaccines to its neighbours and partners.

Through all of these, and more, India is acting as a key and constructive player in the creation of a new world order that can cope with the challenges of tomorrow. A world order that looks beyond the purely economic, and places human beings and their well-being, as the ultimate objective.

Harsh Vardhan Shringla is the Foreign Secretary, Government of India The views expressed are personal

Excerpt From “The India Way” And certainly, our home turf should not be left wide open to those who close their own so firmly. A more capable India that will emerge as a result of greater self-reliance will surely also have more to offer. Far from turning its back on the world, India is actually preparing to participate more but with better preparation. After all, Atmanirbhar Bharat does coexist with Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is a family).”

Rising in the midst of global turbulence, a lot will depend on India’s ability to distinguish itself from others. The post-corona world is likely to see an even greater deficit in global goods. The demand for early responders and generous partners is therefore likely to be more. This was visible during the pandemic and Indian behaviour holds some clues to how it could develop further. By going the extra mile to provide medicines to more than 120 nations, two-thirds of them as grant, a clear message of internationalism was sent. Four medical missions were mounted in the same period to the Maldives, Kuwait, Mauritius and Comoros. In doing so, India

FROM PAGE 14

not only established its credentials as the pharmacy of the world but also as a health security responder.

Equally, what is evident is that greater Indian capacities will make themselves felt on world affairs as part of a conscious strategy.

The India Way, especially now, would be more of a shaper or decider rather than just be an abstainer.

This has been already visible on debates like climate change and connectivity. India must be a just and fair power as well, consolidating its position as a standard bearer of the global South. At home, it would not only address its developmental challenges more effectively but also acquire faster the characteristics of a modern society and nation state. And finally, the India Way would express its brand with growing confidence whether in its civilisational attributes or in its contemporary achievements. The value of India in global calculations is apparent. It will probably increase even further after the virus. So, let take it as a sign of the times that the world has discovered the virtue of Namaste, the India Way of greeting with folded hands.”

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

15

INDIA’S DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP D

evelopment partnership occupies a paramount place in India’s foreign policy. These include Lines of Credit, grant-in-aid assistance, technical consultancy, disaster relief, humanitarian aid, educational scholarships, capacity building and technical assistance and a wide range of capacity building programmes including short-term civilian and military training courses. This development cooperation is based on two main pillars, first, Development cooperation incorporating the idea of partnership, i.e. working for mutual benefit and secondly, development cooperation based on priorities determined by the partner. Depending on the priorities of partner countries, India’s development cooperation ranges from commerce to culture, energy to engineering, health to housing, IT to infrastructure, sports to science, disaster relief and humanitarian assistance to restoration and preservation of cultural and heritage assets.

In recent years, India’s development cooperation programmes have expanded voluminously, both in geographical spread and sectoral coverage. In total 306 LOCs worth US$ 30.59 billion have been extended to 65 countries. The projects under the LOCs cover critical infrastructure sectors such as transport connectivity through railways, roads and ports; power generation and distribution; agriculture and irrigation; manufacturing industries, healthcare, education, capacity building, civilian and military training programmes in India, training onsite abroad, deputation of Indian experts, establishment of centers of excellence in IT and vocational training centers, etc. LoCs have also been extended in many new sectors like defence and solar energy.

The Government of India’s approach to Development Partnership has been shaped by India’s solidarity with other colonized and developing countries. India has been sharing its developmental experiences and technical expertise with other countries in the spirit of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” - World is one Family. India’s approach to development is mainly human-centric and is marked by Respect, Diversity, Care for the future, and Sustainable development. India’s development cooperation does not come with any conditions.

India has completed numerous iconic infrastructure projects in partner countries under the Lines of Credit across the world. A number of grant-in-aid projects, aggregating around US$ 4 Billion, covering various sectors such as infrastructure, hydroelectricity, power transmission, agriculture, education, health, Industry etc, as prioritized by the host governments, are under implementation in South & South East Asia, Central Asia, Africa and Latin America, where bilateral projects in Information and Computer Technology (lCT), Small & Medium enterprises and archaeological conservation have also been undertaken.

With Government of India’s assistance programme, more than 50 cultural and heritage projects have been completed and 25 cultural and heritage projects are under implementation in various countries.

ITEC: India’s globally acknowledged premier public sector academic institutions deliver capacity building and training programmes through its flagship ITEC (Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation) Scheme which has been offering valuable capacity building training to foreign civil servants and professionals nominated by their countries. Since 1964, the ITEC scheme has trained over 60,000 professionals in over 160 countries. These fully funded courses are of varying duration,

ranging from a few months to 1 year at Indian institutions, and cover

a wide range of subjects in public administration, industry, agriculture, management and entrepreneurship, power/renewables, development studies (rural, urban, sustainable), banking/finance/audit/trade, english language training and law/justice/police administration. ITEC scheme also includes an educational-cum-sightseeing study tour as an integral part.

The eITEC scheme is a digital improvisation necessitated by the pandemic induced travel restrictions. Since March 2020, MEA has continued its programme of capacity building by making use of digital technology and over 80 eITEC courses were conducted in Financial Year 2020-21 and nearly 140 courses have been/are being conducted in FY 2021-22 through online webinars.

ITEC Experts: India also provides capacity building assistance in the form of sending Indian experts on deputation to the partner countries in areas such as defence, audit, legislation&drafting, ICT, Cyber-forensics, Ayurveda, Management, archaeology etc. These ITEC experts are embedded in host government for varying periods and till date, MEA has sent about 144 experts to 18 countries under this modality including Guyana.

Centers for Excellence in IT: Leveraging the global brand value of Indian IT, MEA has been providing IT-skills training as a modality of capacity building partnership. Under this modality, MEA provides computer training labs called CEIT to partner countries including Guyana, along with training master trainers to our partner countries in order to enable them to kick-start their IT ecosystem. These CEITs impart

certification-based, structured and accredited training, supported by hands-on experience on latest and advanced technology & provide capacity building training to master trainers, who can then take over the operation of the centre and train more candidates.

COVID Assistance: In the current Corona crisis, India has extended COVID-related medical assistance including testing kits, protective gear and Hydroxychloroquine and other medicines to around 90 plus countries across the globe and its role as a reliable supplier of pharmaceuticals and medicines is globally recognized and appreciated. Apart from supply of medical relief, India also extended technical assistance by way of dispatching rapid response teams to Kuwait and Maldives. Several e-ITEC webinars on handling the Corona pandemic have also been hosted for sharing experience and best practices with experts from other countries. Vaccines have been distributed to many countries across the world including Guyana and the Caribbean.

Guyana: Indian collaboration with Guyana continues with various Lines of Credit and Grants worth around US$ 100 million being coordinated for various projects like the East Bank-East Coast Road Linkage Project worth USD 50 million; Ocean Ferry Vessel worth USD 13 mn; Fixed & Mobile Drainage Pumps- USD 4 mn.; Upgradation of Three Primary Health Centers in Suddie, Bartica & West Demerara- USD 18 mn; Solar Home Lighting System for 30,000 homes and the solarization of the Cheddi Jagan Airport - USD 10 mn; deputation of experts for the sugar/legal/aquaculture sectors, medical patient record system, etc.

Every year around 50 Guyanese students go to India under the ITEC scholarships - one of the most distinguished ITEC alumni being HE President of Guyana Dr Irfaan Ali himself, under which over 650 scholars are contributing effectively to Guyana so far. From 2021, India has begun giving 19 ITEC training slots for the GDF comprising 10, 4 and 5 slots for Army, Navy and Air Force respectively heralding a new era in bilateral cooperation.

Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) offers nine fully paid scholarships for studies in prominent Indian Institutions for Under Graduate, Post Graduate and PhD courses. In addition, two fully paid scholarships in Music, Dance, performing art, theatre, sculpture, Indian Cuisine etc. are also offered by ICCR. Two slots are available to study Hindi in India. India offered training to over 25 media professionals from Guyana in June last year. Our Know India Program (known as KIP) has taken hundreds of young and elderly Indo-Guyanese to India for a thorough immersion in India, with the elderly especially being given access to the sacred Pilgrimage places of India.

GOAL: Two Indian Universities - IGNOU and Jain “Deemed To Be” University - are offering around 4,500 online courses to Guyanese students under the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) of the Ministry of Education, Government of Guyana.

India cherishes its partnership with Guyana.

Credit: Development Partnership Administration (DPA) Division, Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India.

– THROUGH ANCIENT INDIAN TRADITIONAL HEALING, YOGA

W

Credit: Tajeram Mohabir ith non-communicable diseases (NDCs) eating up millions of dollars in treatment yet accounting for some 70 per cent of all deaths in Guyana annually, the need for a workable and cost-effective solution to tackle these challenges remains a priority.

According to the Health Ministry’s Strategic Plan for Integrated Prevention and Control of Chronic Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs) and their Risk Factors 2013-2020, the annual indirect costs of all NCDs were estimated at between US$207.5M, or 10 per cent of GDP, in 2010. The report added that the total annual costs accruing due to NCDs are estimated at US$221.5M. Specifically, it noted that the annual direct costs of treating diabetes and or hypertension are estimated to be between US$7.2M and US$10.8M, and for cardiovascular diseases and cancer, the estimate is between US$ 0.3M and US$2.5M. The report further noted that of these sums, clinic visits, laboratory tests, treatment and drugs account for the highest burden of these costs. According to World Health Organisation (WHO) Country Statistics (2016), cardiovascular diseases account for 34 per cent of all deaths in Guyana, followed by cancer and diabetes (eight per cent each), chronic respiratory diseases (three per cent) and other NCDs (14 per cent). Almost seven out of every 10 deaths of Guyanese aged 23-60 years are caused by cancers, chronic lung diseases, diabetes, heart disease and hypertension.

Given the seriousness of these health challenges, and the social and economic costs on the State and families, a lingering question is natural and inevitable: Is there a solution that is workable, cost-effective and available in Guyana? The answer to both questions is a resounding “YES”.

WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia, Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh says YOGA is a vital tool to increasing physical activity and decreasing non-communicable diseases. Physical exercise, she said, is key to lifelong health and well-being, pointing out that it “improves muscular and cardiorespiratory fitness, enhances bone and functional health, and helps prevent depression and promote mental health.” Importantly too, she shared that physical exercise helps to reduce life-threatening NCDs, particularly hypertension, stroke, heart attack and diabetes, which claim millions of lives across the planet every year.

So much for physical exercise, but what is YOGA? Agnela Mazrekar, a yoga teacher certified by AYUSH, a Government of India Ministry that develops, educates and conducts research in the field of alternative medicine, says, in a nutshell, Yoga connects the body, mind and spirt

through the practice of an eight-fold path created by Sage Patanjali more than 2,000 years ago. Modernday yoga scholar Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani, in a paper titled ‘The History of Yoga from Ancient to Modern Times’, identified the eight-fold paths as Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi. Yoga instructor Mazrekar said “health and wellness are closely related to the lifestyle of the individual, the latter of which has a tremendous effect on the person’s health, depending how he lives. The principles of yoga, equips the practitioners to balance the body, mind and spirit, and on achievement of this balance, they become better able to deal with the stresses of life without any great monetary cost or mental or physical strain”.

Yama, involves attitudes towards the environment; Niyama, attitudes towards oneself; Asana, physical postures and stretches; Pranayama, restraint or expansion of the breath; Pratyahara, withdrawal of the senses; Dharana, focus or concentration; Dhyana, meditation; and Samadhi, spiritual connection which involves a meditative consciousness. “Yoga is a universal practice; it is not related to religion, caste or creed, and so anyone can join a yoga session. Yoga is not just about exercises [simple and complex postures], but the integration of the mind, body and spirit into one harmonious whole,” said Mazrekar, an Indian national who used to teach the 5,000-yearold Indian traditional practice at the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in New Haven, Bel Air, Georgetown and now runs her own Yoga Studio called Namaste Yoga Studio in Ogle, East Coast Demerara.

High Commissioner of India to Guyana, H.E. Dr. K.J. Srinivasa states that Yoga, as a way of life has become a Ray of Hope at a time when

the entire world was battling the Corona pandemic. India celebrates the International Day of Yoga every year on 21st June which is based on a UN Resolution. In 2020, the theme was “Yoga at Home and Yoga with Family” while the 2021 Theme was aptly named “Yoga for Wellness”. In 2021, the High Commission of India in Georgetown celebrated the International Day of Yoga with the Guyana Defence Force, and with the enthusiastic participation of the general public, dignitaries and Indian Diaspora in Guyana, Antigua and Barbuda, St. Kitts and Nevis and Anguilla.

Indian Prime Minister Modi conveyed in his Yoga Day message that, “Today, even medical science lays emphasis on the healing process, besides medical treatment. Yoga helps in the healing process. Doctors have used the ancient practice as an armour to treat patients.” The concept of International Day of Yoga was proposed by Prime Minister Modi in 2014 during his speech at the UN General Assembly and UN recognised June 21as International Day of Yoga, which has since evolved into a mass movement for health around the world. In collaboration with WHO, India has taken another important step. Now there will be mYoga app which will help us in our “One World, One Health” motto.

BENEFITS OF YOGA Yoga Guru Agnela Mazrekar claims that after one session, yoga improves brain function, lowers stress levels, and increases flexibility, CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

16

A

yurveda blends our modern lifestyle and health-oriented habits with the ancient wisdom of using natural substances, medicines and herbs to help us lead a healthy, happy, stress-free and disease-free life. The cardinal aim of Ayurveda is to restore the individual balance between mind, body and spirit. For most people, Ayurveda is just another way of treating illnesses with medicines that are made up of herbs. Well, Ayurveda is much, much more than that and today for many, Ayurveda is life, its energy which inspires them.

Ayurveda Basics

Ayurveda is the Upaveda (sub or near to veda) of Atharva veda. It’s also called Panchama veda (5th veda). The word Ayurveda is made of two words Ayu and Veda. Ayurveda means the knowledge of the union of body, sense organs, mind and soul. It is the “Science of Life”. So when people bless saying ‘दीर्घायुषी भव।’ (dīrghāyuṣī bhava।), it means let you be in union with all the above factors for a long time!

Ayurveda bases its theory on the existence of five elements – basic principles or building blocks, which are the basis of life of the whole universe (the macrocosm), as well as our body (the microcosm), and are known as the five great elements: space/ether (ākāśa); air/wind (vāyu); fire (tejas); water (jala); and earth (pṛthvī). Ayurvedic sages condensed these five principles into three constitutional types – doshas, which are called: vata (a combination of the elements of space and air); pitta (a combination of fire and water) and kapha (a combination of water and earth). These principles govern our entire physiology.

Ayurveda Shastra aims at maintaining good health and managing or curing diseases (mind, body or both) that manifest in a person.

Basic and simple way that you understand Ayurveda benefits in modern world • You Are Encouraged to Love Yourself • Offers a Nurturing Approach to Being Healthy • You Get a Greater Understanding of Your Place in Life • We Learn to Clear Up Energy • It Provides a Full Circle Philosophy • Better Health at a Cellular Level • Toxins in the Body are Reduced • Stronger Digestion • Increase Potential and Immunity Power of the Body

• Prevention from Disorder • You understand your Prakruti/ your body time, many things clear about food, life style for being healthier, happier and long life

Ayurvedic Lifestyle

Ayurvedic recommendations for a healthy lifestyle are as natural and reasonable as Ayurvedic methods. They propagate a peaceful life that follows steady routines, which support growth of body and soul Holistic Ayurvedic approach recommends healthy routine, daily exercise and meditation, organic vegetarian diet and consumption of large quantities of hot water The timeless Ayurvedic knowledge has an insight into the most refined processes in our mind and body and through these simple methods, it enables us safe return to our true nature.

Personal Hygiene

Daily intake of hot water, boiled for 15 -20 minutes Regular morning bowel elimination, tooth

brushing and showering

Daily yoga practise

Nutrition based on fresh, organic ingredients, according to the constitutional type Avoidance of any harmful substances or narcotics

Mental Hygiene

Early awakening (06:00hrs) and early going to bed (22:00hrs) Daily breathing exercises (pranayama) Daily practise of transcendental meditation Spending a lot of time in nature Spending a lot of time doing new things – new hobbies, travelling

Importance of Ayurveda Treatment/ Medicines

in Modern world

Ayurveda is a preventively-oriented and time-tested natural medicine. It is the earliest medical system known to mankind, from which all the later treatment systems have emerged. Its core field of interest is wholesome health as the foundation of everything else. Ayurveda promulgates that vitality and longevity are achieved by harmoniously living with nature and maintaining balance between the body, the psyche and the spirit.

Ayurvedic Healing is Based on a Completely Individual, Multilayered Approach that Unites: Phytotherapy, ie, herbal treatments Nutrition – Ayurvedic nutrition guidelines Detoxification and revitalisation of the body with multiple therapeutic massages called panchakarma Psychology, through the introduction of Ayurvedic daily routine Spirituality, through day-to-day yoga training and meditation Ayurvedic approach to healing emphasises prevention and rejuvenation which enable the modern man to harmonise all aspects of his life and to live long and prosperous in harmony with natural laws. Due to its holistic approach, Ayurveda has shown a great potential as a discipline complementary to modern medicine. Its main advantages are disease prevention and the lack of negative side effects. Ayurvedic medicines are widely used to treat several physical as well as psychological conditions. There are arthritis, obesity, hypertension, heart disease, nervous disorder, colds, colitis, constipation, obesity, skin problem and ulcer, to name a few. They are non-toxic and non-invasive. Ayurvedic medicines can be safely used with other conventional medicines. Ayurvedic medicine

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

aims at maintaining and restoring body’s own capability to have balance and fight with ailments.

Since Ayurvedic medicines have natural ingredients, they do not have any side effects. These medicines make the person’s body and mind disease-free. Ayurvedic practitioners claim that with Ayurvedic medicines, one can easily get relieve from stress and problem in metabolism, acne, allergies, asthma, anxiety, chronic fatigue syndrome, depression, diabetes, flu and immune problems. What makes Ayurveda unique is that it works for the system not for the symptoms and when the root cause of problem starts to get cured, other symptoms get cured as well.

And the approach of Ayurveda is very much holistic that deeply explains about the body mind and soul.

Ideas about the relationships among peo-

ple, their health, and the universe form the basis for how Ayurvedic practitioners think about problems that affect health. Ayurvedic medicine holds that: All things in the universe (both living and nonliving) are joined together Every human being contains elements that can be found in the universe Health will be good if one’s mind and body are in harmony, and one’s interaction with the universe is natural and wholesome Disease arises when a person is out of harmony with the universe. Disruptions can be physical, emotional, spiritual, or a combination of these Some believe that when the approach of Western therapy finishes, the Ayurveda starts So we can all say Om Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah Sarve Santu Nir-Aamayaah | Sarve Bhadraanni Pashyantu Maa Kashcid-Duhkha-Bhaag-Bhavet | Om Shaantih Shaantih Shaantih || Meaning: May all become happy May none fall ill May all see auspiciousness everywhere May none ever feel sorrow Om Shaantih Shaantih Shaantih Credits: 1. Vaidya Adwait Tripathi, Vaidya at Arogyasadnam 2. Dr K J Srinivasa, High Commissioner of India to Guyana 3. Shri Unnikrishnan Payyappallimana and Ms. Padma Venkatasubramanian

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

H

indi (Devanagari:) is an Indo-Aryan language spoken across India. Hindi has been described as a standardised and Sanskritised register of the Hindustani language, which itself is based primarily on the Khariboli dialect of Delhi and neighbouring areas of Northern India. In Hindi, there are 13 thirtene (vowels) and 36 thirtysix (consonants). Hindi, written in the Devanagari script, is one of the two official languages of the Government of India, along with English.

It is an official language in nine States and three Union Territories. After Mandarin, Spanish and English, Hindi is the fourth most spoken first language in the world with 615 million speakers.

Hindi is the lingua franca of the Hindi belt and to a lesser extent other parts of India (usually in a simplified or pidginised variety such as Bazaar Hindustani Halflong Hindi). Outside India, several other languages are recognised officially as “Hindi”, but do not refer to the Standard Hindi language, instead descend from other dialects, such as Awadhi and Bhojpuri. Such languages include Fiji Hindi, which is official in Fiji, and Caribbean Hindustani, which is spoken in Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana and Suriname.

Link between India and Indian Diaspora A sizeable population in Afghanistan, especially in Kabul, also speak and understand Hindi-Urdu due to the popularity and influence of Bollywood films, songs and actors in the region. Hindi is also spoken by a large population of Madheshis (people having roots in north India but having migrated to Nepal over hundreds of years) of Nepal.

Apart from this, Hindi is spoken by the large Indian diaspora which hails from, or has its origin from the “Hindi Belt” of India. A substantially large North Indian diaspora lives in countries like the United States of America, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Suriname, South Africa, Fiji and Mauritius, where it is natively spoken at home and among their own Hindustani-speaking communities.

Outside India, Hindi speakers are eight million in Nepal; 863,077 in United States of

17

America; 450,170 in Mauritius; 380,000 in Fiji; 250,292 in South Africa; 150,000 in Suriname; 100,000 in Uganda; 45,800 in United Kingdom; 20,000 in New Zealand; 20,000 in Germany; 26,000 in Trinidad and Tobago; and 3,000 in Singapore.

Development and Propagation and Promotion of Hindi Promotion of Hindi in foreign countries is a matter of high priority for the Government of India.

Several initiatives have been taken since then, by the Ministry of External Affairs, to promote Hindi abroad.

(Entrance of World Hindi Secreteriat office in Mauritius)

• On 14 September 1949, the Constituent Assembly of India adopted Hindi written in the Devanagari script as the Official Language of the Republic of India.

• In order to promote Hindi globally, the Government of India decided to organise ‘World Hindi Conferences / Vishva Hindi Sammelan at the different countries where population of Indian origin is adequate. It consists of several Hindi scholars, writers and laureates from different parts of the world who contribute to the language. Eleven World Hindi Conferences were held till 2021 in India, Mauritius, Trinidad and Tobago, United Kingdom, Suriname, United States, South Africa and the last one was held at Fiji in 2021.

• In 1975 - Government of India had issued a Postal Stamp -- Saraswati Goddess of learning -- inscription in Hindi.

• World Hindi Secretariat (WHS), At the initiative of Government of India to promote Hindi globally, the World Hindi Secretariat was setup in Mauritius in 1999 (temporarily). The World Hindi Secretariat is an international organisation of nations and regions where Hindi is the first or customary language with significant proportion of population consisting of Hindi speakers and/or with notable affiliation with North Indian culture. WHS is focused on promoting Hindi as an interna-

tional language and furthering the cause of recognition of Hindi as an Official Language of the United Nations. On 12 March 2015, Prime Minister of the Republic of India in the Fenix (Mauritius), His Excellency Mr. Narendra Modi and the Prime Minister of the Republic of Mauritius, Honorable Sir Anirudh Jagannath, G.C.S.K. KCMG, QCS officially launched the construction of permanent building of World Hindi Secretariat headquarter in Mauritius.

• Celebration of Hindi Day: The Hindi Diwas, which is celebrated on September 14 every year, commemorates the adoption of Hindi as one of the official languages by the Constituent Assembly of India in 1949. Initially, Hindi Diwas was celebrated in India but lately it was decided to celebrate the occasion globally.

• Celebration of World Hindi Day - January 10 is celebrated as World Hindi Day every year to spread awareness about Hindi as an international language across the world. The day is especially observed by Indian embassies abroad in commemoration of the First World Hindi Conference which took place in Maharashtra’s Nagpur on January 10, 1975.

• Regional Hindi conferences are also organised by the Ministry of External Affairs in various foreign countries to promote Hindi, including those held in the last one year in Paris and

helped many people to overcome severe emotional situations.

and that after a few months of practice, participants experience lower blood pressure, improved lung capacity, improved sexual function, reduced chronic neck and back pain, anxiety relief, lower blood sugar levels in diabetics and an improved sense of balance. After years of practice, the expert said practitioners develop stronger bones, healthy weight, and lower risk of heart diseases.

The Journal of Social Sciences and Diabetes in 2017 reported that based on traditional and scientific thinking,

obesity, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus and hypertension are some of the NCDs for which yoga may be used with “a favourable effect in modern medicine”. “Yoga does not only involve stretches to tone the muscles of the body, but it includes meditation, which relaxes the spirit, and together they put the body at complete ease; no tension and stress to increase the blood pressure and sugar levels.” Yoga, aside from helping people cope with NCDs like diabetes, CVD and Hypertension, has also

LIFE In addition, to helping persons to avoid and cope with various lifestyle diseases, Yoga is also a useful tool in helping persons to overcome physical injuries.

According to the Harvard Medical School in an article titled “The physical benefits of yoga”, the ancient Indian practice helps in stress management, promotes flexibility and reduces joint pain.

It’s time to start practicing Yoga.

Those interested may contact the High Commission of India in Georgetown at hcigeorgetown@gmail.com for further enquiries.

Moscow.

• A Joint Declaration of Intent has been signed with Germany to teach Indian languages under which Hindi will be taught in schools in Germany.

• The Ministry of External Affairs also provides books, teaching material and other assistance to organisations involved in promotion of Hindi in foreign countries.

• For the promotion of Hindi abroad, the Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), a sister organisation of the Ministry of External Affairs, deputes Hindi teachers listed in the Council’s panel for teaching Hindi in Indian Cultural Centres abroad and university level Hindi teachers at Chairs established abroad to various foreign universities. Apart from this, scholarships are provided to students involved in Hindi courses under various scholarship schemes.

• Under the ICCR’s scholarship programme, the ICCR provides scholarships to the foreign students for studying Hindi language and literature.

• The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has established 26 Hindi Chairs in various foreign universities/institutions abroad.

• ICCR has initiated publication of dictionaries from Hindi to foreign language and foreign language to Hindi.

18

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

19

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

20 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Teixeira, Ramjattan added to Privileges Committee to determine sanctions against Opposition MPs

P

arliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira and Opposition Member of Parliament Khemraj Ramjattan have been added to the membership of the Privileges Committee which would be determining the sanctions, if necessary, that would be applied to eight Opposition Parliamentarians who reportedly misbehaved in the National Assembly on December 29, 2021.

Teixeira on Monday moved a motion to have eight members – APNU+AFC

Chief Whip Christopher Jones and members Annette Ferguson, Ganesh Mahipaul, Sherod Duncan, Natasha Singh-Lewis, Vinceroy Jordan, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley and Maureen Philadelphia – sent to the Committee, which is akin to a court.

On December 29, APNU/ AFC members protested the hearing of the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Bill, which they wanted to be sent to a Parliamentary Special Select Committee for review. Coalition MPs stood banging on their desks Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira and Opposition Member of Parliament Khemraj Ramjattan

when the Bill was called up for debate, and subsequently gathered in the pit of the dome of the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), where National Assembly sittings are being held due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Bill was eventually passed late into the evening, but not before Opposition protest escalated into a physical confrontation with Parliament staff, after one

of the Parliamentarians snatched the Parliament Mace from in front of the Speaker, Manzoor Nadir.

In the process, the symbolic Mace was damaged.

Some Opposition MPs also went into the Control Room of the ACCC, where they ripped out connections for internet and microphones, causing the live feed and virtual connections to be disrupted.

Moreover, Opposition Parliamentarians have been accused of assaulting both physically and verbally, including the use of racial epithets - the Personal Assistant to the Speaker, who was trying to protect the Mace. The Mace is the most integral part of the National Assembly’s business, and if it is not in the House, no business can be conducted.

During the sitting on Monday, Teixeira also asked for the matter to be resolved within a month’s time.

According to the Parliament of Guyana website, “Any matter which appears to affect the powers and privileges of the Assembly is referred to (the Privileges) Committee, whose duty is to consider any such matter and to report thereon to the Assembly.”

During an interview with Guyana Times on Tuesday, Teixeira explained that she and Ramjattan are the newest members of the Committee, which already comprised Prime Minister Mark Phillips, Attorney General Anil Nandlall, Youth Minister Charles Ramson, Attorney Sanjeev Datadin, former Education Minister Nicolette Henry, and former Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson.

The House Speaker, as Chairman of the Committee, will convene the first meeting. Teixeira hopes that happens “as soon as possible”.

NEWS

21

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Blood transfusions at GPHC Teen among 7 provided free for patients arrested for $30M

I

n light of reports that patients have been asked to pay for blood at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), it has been explicitly stated that all transfusions with blood products at the facility are provided at zero costs.

A statement outlined that blood transfusion is a critical service provided at the GPHC and other hospitals in the country.

The Government of Guyana bears 100 per cent of the cost for blood product transfusion in the public health sector. This means that anyone receiving care at the GPHC or any of the public hospitals is entitled to receiving blood products at no cost to them and their families.

“If anyone at the GPHC or any of the public hospitals have been asked to pay for blood and blood product transfusions at any of the public hospitals, that per-

The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation

son is a victim of a scam,” it added.

The GPHC Board has received several complaints about patients being asked to pay for blood products at the GPHC and asked to have family members donate blood. The management has assured the Board that blood products and transfusion service at the GPHC is free of charge to all patients, no exception.

In addition, Guyana adopted since 2001, a 100 per cent voluntary donation programme for blood. Since that time, family members are not asked to donate blood before blood products are provided for transfusion.

Therefore, for anyone to be told they must have family members donate blood before they are able to receive blood, is a violation of the protocol.

“The Board has been assured that no patient is being asked to pay for blood products at the GPHC. Management has investigated allegations made in regards to paying either for blood products or for donors.

Management is satisfied that staff members are not involved in this scam.”

The Board and management are urging persons to report any case of being asked to pay for either blood products or for donors.

“Although management is satisfied that staff members are not involved, if any staff member engages in such requests, he or she will be severely disciplined.

If persons outside the hospital engages in such a scam, the matter will be referred to the police,” patients have been reassured.

Anyone with such information must contact 2253361.

Berbice robbery

S

even persons, including a 17-yearold boy, have been arrested in relation to the daring daylight robbery which occurred outside of Republic Bank, Rose Hall Town, Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

This was confirmed by Divisional Commander Boodnarine Persaud during an interview with Guyana Times. He noted that six of the suspects were arrested on Monday while the seventh, the teenager, was detained on Tuesday as investigations widen.

Investigators have also recovered the motorcycle which was used as the getaway vehicle following the robbery which occurred at around 10:20h on Monday.

Commander Persaud has since expressed sur-

prise and disappointment in the poor quality of images retrieved from the commercial bank’s CCTV system, noting that big companies should invest in getting better quality equipment.

As the probe continues, he explained that authorities are trying to enhance the images. Persaud also noted that investigators are working on the theory that the robbery could have been an “inside job”.

A businesswoman was robbed of $30 million – $18.5 million in cash and $13 million in cheques – as she was making her way to Republic Bank to make a deposit. The businesswoman was in the company of an employee when she was accosted by a lone gunman shortly after she exited a vehicle outside of the bank.

22 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Deep, far-reaching amendments to Powers of Attorney Act will prevent fraud – Attorney General – as changes are passed in the National Assembly

A

s the National Assembly on Monday evening passed the Powers of Attorney (Amendment Bill 2021) Act, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall SC, relayed that the deep and far-reaching amendments would prevent miscreants from perpetrating fraud.

For context, a power of attorney, or letter of attorney, is a written authorisation to represent or act on another’s behalf in private affairs, business, or some other legal matter. The person authorising the other to act is the principal, grantor, or donor.

In his presentation to the 35th sitting of the National Assembly, the Attorney General highlighted that the power of attorney in Guyana is unfortunately and often abused by the donee. To fortify his point, he noted a few

cases as evidence.

How is this authority abused? The Legal Affairs Minister outlined this in two ways: one, persons forging the power of attorney document with malintent to secure, for example, property; and two, those in control of the power vested in them abusing it to secure the donor’s savings and/or other assets that they were not given privileges to access.

“Powers of attorney are given too carelessly in this country,” Minister Nandlall said. “This Bill would do the donor better. Donors’ interest will be protected. It is intended to protect society, private property, and all of us who intend to authorise someone to conduct a transaction better achieve the purposes of the Act. It seeks to stamp out fraud,” he explained.

To weed out fraud, the amendments to the Bill pro-

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC

pose that a power of attorney would be vested only with the donor of the power and the donee of the power appearing personally together before a public notary or magistrate; and the two parties shall provide to the notary or judge two photograph identification documents that establish their identity, and a

photocopy of each of the documents.

In the case when the donor is out of the country and the power is in Guyana, the two parties shall each appear personally before a public notary or magistrate in the country in which he/she is, and execute the power of attorney, providing the nota-

ry or judge with two identification documents that establish their identify, and a photocopy of each of the documents.

The Principal Act was also amended, and it speaks to the sections of offences to dishonestly obtain and use a power of attorney. It states that a person shall not dishonestly obtain a power of attorney to obtain financial advantage for himself/herself or another person, to cause loss to the principal or another person.

Like the previous offence, the Bill outlines that an attorney shall not commit the same. Importantly, an attorney who fails to comply with the requirements commits an offence, and is liable on summary conviction to five years’ imprisonment and a fine of $5 million. In the case of a corporate body, the fine shall be $10 million.

Other offences include

that if any public notary who has been suspended or removed from practice, or whose name is not on the register, exercises the power of that office, an offence has been committed. In addition, a person who wilfully certifies or propounds any false statement or document, or who fraudulently, with intent to deceive, conceals, withholds, or perverts any fact or document pertinent to the subject of the power of an attorney, commits an offence.

These are just a few of the offences listed in the Bill.

“The compendium of measures will go a long way to prevent miscreants from perpetrating fraud small in size, but deep and reaching (in) ramifications. The two forms of identification were not inserted into this bill lightly. It was deliberately drafted this way,” Minister Nandlall has said.

US Embassy conducts human rights training for Police, Prison Service

T

he US Department of State’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) conducted training for members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Prison Service on human rights.

The training focused on the Department of State Leahy Law, which prohibits State assistance to foreign security forces if there is credible information that a security force unit has committed a gross violation of human rights (GVHR), to include extrajudicial killings, torture, forced disappearance, or rape under colour of law.

The training reviewed definitions of GVHR types, the consequences of committing GVHR, and the pathways to remediating units

whose members have committed these actions so they may once again receive assistance.

Through the United States’ Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI), the US Embassy has facilitated the training of 889 Police officers in various law enforcement areas, including major case management, forensic video analysis, narcotics investigations, and intelligence gathering, and is poised to facilitate more than a dozen training opportunities in 2022. This most recent training is an example of the US Government’s commitment to working with Guyanese security forces in promoting respect and protection of human rights in policing.

Duo in custody for gun possession

The firearm that was found during the Princeville operation

A

male and a female were on Monday taken into custody following the discovery of a firearm in the village of Princeville, at Mahdia, Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni).

Based on information received, as the Police continue their efforts to remove illegal weapons from the streets in a bid to make communities safer, ranks in Regional Division Eight

carried out an exercise at a home in Princeville and found a 20-gauge shotgun and a cartridge casing. As a result, a male and female who were at the house at the time were arrested, and are expected to be charged shortly.

The Police have recently stated that, for 2021, some 71 firearms were seized by the GPF. These comprise 36 pistols, 18 revolvers, and 17 shotguns.

NEWS

23

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Ramsammy’s Ruminations CANU unearths guns, ammo The hypocrisy of Ramjattan during ECD operation and the AFC – they increased – Jamaican national arrested UG fees, now blaming the PPP

I

n the 2020 election campaign, the PPP promised that university tuition fees would be eliminated within the first term of the new Government should the PPP win the election. The PPP won the election, and it has repeated the promise that tuition fees for UG would be eliminated by 2025, within the first term of the Irfaan Aliled PPP Government.

There is no ambiguity about the promise: tuition fees will be eliminated by 2025. The PPP still have Budgets 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025 to keep this promise. But if one listens to the Opposition, especially the AFC, one would think the PPP had promised it would do so immediately. No such promise was made. And given the track record of the PPP, especially since August 2020, there is every likelihood that this promise would be kept.

In politics, people have come to expect that hypocrisy is an integral component of the political landscape. But Dr Leslie Ramsammy there is still an expectation that politicians would have some respect for people, and avoid shamelessness. I saw twice, in recent times, Khemraj Ramjattan and the AFC demanding that the PPP Government immediately eliminate all fees from the University of Guyana.

Ramjattan claimed that the PPP is breaking its promise. He knows full well that he is not being truthful. He knows full well that he is misrepresenting what the PPP promised.

But what is particularly galling is that this is the same man who joined his colleagues in the PNC in 2015, during that election campaign, and vigorously promised that, should they be elected, they would eliminate university fees immediately. They did so on the campaign platform during public meetings across Guyana. They did so on TV programmes. They did so in their manifesto. As it turned out, the APNU/AFC Coalition, really another name for the PNC, was elected to take the reins of Government, with David Granger as the President. In their 2015 Budget, they did not, as promised, eliminate tuition fees at UG. In fact, Budgets 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 did not provide for the elimination of tuition fees at UG. They broke their promise.

Ramjattan was Minister of Public Security, but, as Leader of the AFC and cabinet member, he never once spoke out against the shameless disregard of a promise they collectively made to the people of Guyana.

Ramjattan and his colleagues in the AFC were not just bystanders when the APNU/AFC coalition increased UG fees, they were actively involved in the travesty of increasing UG tuition fees. It was not just tuition fees at UG, they also increased other fees at UG. In addition, they introduced VAT on Education, VAT on text books and other educational materials. They introduced VAT on computers and on internet data, including Wi-Fi. These are critical aspects of students’ lives at a university. The charlatans even removed the $10,000 “Because We Care” cash grant to school children. These grants were deemed a waste of time. Some of them argued that the university’s fees were too low, and they should be at least US$1,000.

These are the same people who today are demanding that the tuition fees at UG be removed immediately. One of the arguments that Ramjattan now makes is that with 3,000 students graduating annually, it means that the vast majority of students who graduate from high school do not attend university; and that, if made free, more students would attend university. But did Ramjattan not know this before 2020? Is it only now that, if made free, more students would go to UG? Ramjattan wants oil money to be used to eliminate UG’s tuition fees. Other than the US$18 million that the APNU/AFC Coalition Government hid, and then stashed away, no oil money has been used yet. The first money outside the EXXON US$18 million that will be used will be used in accordance with the NRF in 2022. If Ramjattan is so concerned about our young people and their education, did he say anything when the US$18 million was being kept a secret for whatever untoward purpose? Suddenly Ramjattan wants more money to be poured into UG. The APNU/AFC Coalition had five years to do so, but they did not increase the subvention to UG in any meaningful way, other than increasing UG’s finances via tuition increase.

It is sheer hypocrisy today that Ramjattan is shedding crocodile tears for the university and the students.

But hypocrisy is not foreign to Ramjattan and the AFC. In fact, hypocrisy is part and parcel of their persona. Before 2015, when in Opposition, Ramjattan and the AFC wanted 20% wage increase annually for sugar workers and the Public Servants. He, together with Moses Nagamootoo, deemed themselves the “champion of sugar workers”. They went around in 2011 and 2015, promising sugar workers 20% pay increase. They screamed to hell and back that no sugar estate would be closed. Yet, these same charlatans betrayed the sugar workers when they became the Government.

They were not just silent when sugar estates were closed, when sugar workers had their wages frozen between 2015 and 2019, when the annual production incentives and the weekly production incentives were watered down and then eliminated; they actively defended those actions by the Coalition. Their hypocrisy knows no bounds.

The cannabis found on the farm The ammunition found during the raid

The various calibers of bullets

A

Jamaican national was on Tuesday arrested by agents of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) during an operation at Nabaclis backlands, East Coast Demerara (ECD). That operation unearthed guns, ammunition, and a ganja field.

Based on reports received, on the day in question, CANU

The Jamaica national who has been arrested

officers, acting on information, conducted a narcotics operation at Nabaclis village, ECD, and discovered on a halfacre of land a camp containing about 4000-5000 cannabis plants and seedlings.

In addition, a quantity of processed cannabis and one

kilogram of mixed seeds, one shotgun, one crossbow with several arrows, and several calibers of ammunition were discovered. When checked, a total of thirty-one 9mm bullets, twelve .45 cartridges and four 12-gauge cartridges were found.

At time of the operation, the 46-year-old Jamaican national, of Victoria village ECD, was seen on the camp, and as

such, he was arrested and taken to CANU Headquarters, along with weapons, ammunition, processed cannabis, and seeds. He is assisting with the investigations.

CANU continues to conduct around the country operations that are aimed at dismantling the networks that are engaged in the cultivation, sale and distribution of narcotics.

24 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

EPA moves closer towards “real-time” monitoring of offshore activities

By Amar Persaud

I

t has been some two years since the country became an oil-producing nation, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has moved closer towards conducting “real-time” monitoring of offshore activities, to ensure compliance with the necessary protocols.

This position was shared

by EPA Deputy Executive Director Sharifah Razack, Head of the EPA Oil and Gas Unit Joel Gravesande, and EPA Geographic Information System (GIS) Specialist Reshana Thomas during a recent episode of the programme “Environment Matters”.

Razack explained that one of the Agency’s plans for the new year is to be able to completely monitor, in re-

al-time and remotely, the activities offshore.

“We are planning to strengthen our capabilities to monitor remotely, and we are putting systems in place to do that; subscribing to various services that can allow us to tap into their resources to have remote monitoring of the marine environment, the terrestrial environment, so that we can know what’s going on in the environment as a whole,” she explained.

“We are going to utilise GIS in order to identify high-risk industries, highrisk projects, and to keep a closer look at them; and also to identify hotspots in different sectors where we need to keep a close look; and to monitor what’s going on,” she added.

Expanding on this point,

Gravesande noted that performance of the Oil and Gas Unit has improved tremendously since its establishment. The Unit has a staff complement of twelve persons.

“Having such a large department allows the Agency to have focus on the specifics.

There are persons that overlook water quality for both exploration and production; there are persons dedicated

to monitoring waste management, air and climate change,” he explained.

In addition to doing physical monitoring offshore, the EPA has been moving towards remote monitoring of the oil activities.

“We have tried to move more now towards remote monitoring…

We have moved towards compliance monitoring, real satellite data monitoring. The Agency now has the ability to [almost] conduct real-time monitoring of the ships… We use satellite programmes such as ‘Sky Truth’,” he revealed.

“So, added to the satellite monitoring, which is daily, even though we get alerts if something should happen offshore, we take it upon ourselves to conduct real-time data monitoring.

This is something that we’re working on to bring completely full circle by the end of this month, whereby the Agency would have the ability to monitor real-time what is happening offshore in the oil-production facilities.

“I’m talking about volume of gas being flared, the quantity of produced water being discharged…the whole nine yards. The Agency will have live access to this information,” Gravesande added.

In addition to these monitoring techniques, he ex-

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

plained, oil and gas companies are required to submit self-monitoring reports.

“They submit self-monitoring reports that are required based on the environmental authorisation that is issued to them,” he explained.

Further weighing in on the matter, Thomas explained how Sky Truth has been aiding the Agency in its monitoring activities.

“We have utilised a lot of opensource data, freely available from Sky Truth, that allows us to visualise and quantify daily flaring… we are also making use of an experimental tool from Sky Truth, but what it does, it automates the detection of oil slicks or any oil spills offshore…

“Because of Sky Truth’s advancements, they’re able to get the imagery within three hours of an image being taken. So, it’s not real-time, but it’s (as) near real-time as you can get,” she noted.

Moreover, Thomas explained that the EPA utilises data from NASA to “monitor some parameters”.

Efforts are also ongoing by the EPA to monitor other projects outside of the oil and gas industry, such as mining and forestry. Thomas noted that the Agency is working in collaboration with the Ministry of Natural Resources in this regard.

“Some of the very exciting things we are looking to do in 2022 are: we have started engaging with, and soon (it) will probably become public, once those agreements are finalised. We have, in collaboration with the Ministry of Natural Resources, to engage some commercial satellite imagery- providers.

What is exciting about what they are able to do is, in addition to providing us near real-time access to imagery catalogs, we’re also able to tell that we’re interested in monitoring in these particular areas and we would like to get a weekly or a daily report of what is happening here.

“So, not only will they be providing a satellite imagery visual product to us, they will be providing some analysis-ready data. For example, they’ll tell us if there has been a detection of something that is not water on the surface of the water…” she explained.

“That’ll help us even before something is formally reported. The Agency can be ahead of it, and that adds to the proactive approach that the Agency is sort of taking in monitoring our offshore and even onshore activities,” the GIS specialist added.

NEWS

25

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Cops have no authority to remove tint from vehicles – Traffic Dep Supt D

uring a recent programme hosted by the Guyana Police Force (GPF), Deputy Superintendent Timothy Williams weighed in on the issue of tinted vehicles in the country. He noted that only a Certifying Officer can remove the material if it is found that the vehicle is not permitted to be tinted.

“Once a vehicle is outfitted with tint, that vehicle is stopped by the Police (and) that driver (is) asked if he or she has a tint permit. If the answer is ‘no’, well, then the driver can volunteer to remove their tint; but the Police don’t have the authority to remove the tint. We can ask the driver to remove the tint,” he explained.

“In the case where the driver refuses, the Certifying Officer would have to get involved. We notify the Certifying Officer, who conducts an inspection by way of a tintometer to check on the density of the tint. Once it fails the required level or the light penetration, the Certifying Officer can revoke the tint, and we prosecute the driver,”

Williams explained.

Moreover, he noted that those persons who are granted tint permits must be aware that a vehicle’s front windscreen cannot be tinted.

“Permits do not be granted for somebody to place tint on their front windscreen… The problem with tint is the law states that, at the time, somebody from the outside looking into that vehicle must be able to recognise all the persons in that vehicle without any difficulty,” he explained. “…35% of light must be able to penetrate that tint…because

there is a tintometer, and when the meter is placed on that tint, it will indicate if 35% of light can penetrate that tint,” he added.

Williams also highlighted that, in most cases, the issue with tint is that persons do not want to go through the requisite process to obtain the desired tint, and would prefer to place any amount of tint on their vehicle without the necessary documents.

“That is the issue we have with tint, because it depends on the time of the day, it de-

pends on the individual who is looking into that vehicle, and (it depends on) a lot of factors. But yes, tint on vehicles is a very topical issue; and yes, we have lot of persons who don’t want to go through the process of applying.

“So, without going through the process of applying to get the requisite permit, they decide that they are going to put whatever tint they want on their vehicle, and they just drive it like that; and there goes the problem,” Williams explained.

“Because definitely they will be stopped by the Police and asked for the requisite permit; so, once that is the case, the Certifying Officer will have to get involved to ensure that the tint on that vehicle, the density is the required density that is permitted on the permit,” he elaborated.

Tintometers are certified by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS), and would have to be recalibrated regularly.

“When these devices came into the country, the Bureau of

Standards, they went through the regular checks and came up with what we call a certificate.

It’s just like the radar and the breathalyzer… They go to the Bureau and the Bureau checks them, ensure that the certificate is there before we utilise them.

“The Traffic Chief, he has the certificates. I think most of them, the certificates, are valid for a year, and when that year is up, we recall them, we take them into the Bureau of Standards for them to be recalibrated, and once they are okay, we use them back.”

According to the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act, “No person shall have fitted to his motor vehicle and glass, or safety glass, any material used in the place of such glass or safety glass which is so tinted or otherwise treated or coloured in such a manner or to such extent as would result in obstructing the identification of the driver of the motor vehicle, or any other person travelling in the motor vehicle, by any person from outside the motor vehicle.”

26 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GAC’s statement on Govt’s lack of interest in aviation is “baseless” – Edghill …says PPP/C has successfully engaged new carriers

P

ublic Works Minister Juan Edghill has vehemently underscored that Government has committed to the development of the aviation sector, fostering investment and dialogue in key areas to attract investors.

This position was penned in a statement, responding to alleged reports from Chairman of the Board of Guyana Airways Corporation Incorporated, Dr Colin Abrams that Government’s lack of interest in starting dialogue to establish an airline is the reason he is selling his company.

The Minister said he found these statements to be “disconcerting” and as such, addressed the report.

“Dr Abrams’ assessment of this Government’s posture on interest in his intention to establish a national airline is unfounded. He must be informed that our Government is a facilitator of business, which we do for

all sectors of the economy.

We encourage investment!”

Edghill asserted.

Since assuming office, the Public Works Minister indicated that they have met with numerous airlines – both potential and existing within the industry in Guyana, since it is interesting in attracting more carriers for the country.

“We make it our duty to advise these air operators that the Government is interested in facilitating investment in the aviation industry, so we can

improve travel options and connectivity for people and cargo, whether domiciled in Guyana or abroad…We are interested in more airlines servicing Guyana which will complement the Government’s transformative agenda for Guyana. I am happy to report that our engagements thus far have been successful.”

Therefore, he added that the statement about Government’s lack of interest in getting a national airline is “far from the truth”. In early 2021, Edghill said he

enquired from the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) as to the status of GAC’s application.

He was advised that the company had not completed its application process with the regulatory agency for acquisition of an Air Operator Certificate (AOC).

The AOC is a certificate authorising an operator to carry out specified commercial air transport operations.

Acquisition of the AOC is a five-phase process as follows: Pre-application Statement of Intent (PASI), the application, document evaluation, demonstration and certification.

Evidence from the GCAA showed that in September 2016, GAC initiated its intention to operate commercial air transport services in Guyana and commenced Phase 1 of the AOC process on June 23, 2017. By November 2019, GAC had made little progress in submitting the requisite documentation to the GCAA and

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill

the company was only at Phase 2 of the AOC process.

On November 20, 2019, the GCAA wrote the company advising, that the AOC process was terminated because of GAC’s failure to meet all its promised deadlines for submission of the requisite documentation. GAC’s application process was terminated by the GCAA almost ten 10 months before the PPP/C government took office on August 2, 2020.

The Minister concluded, “In no certain terms, I would like for it to be known that the PPP/C Government is a facilitator of business, and our plan is to support development of aviation in Guyana and most assuredly, GAC or any other is welcome to invest in Guyana, just follow the process.”

As a policy decision, he underlined that the PPP/C Administration will not direct the GCAA to issue an AOC credential to any potential operator which does not meet the regulatory requirements.

“If we do, we run the risk of contravening our international obligation to the International Civil Aviation Organisation. Should GAC still have an interest in Guyana, I encourage them to engage the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority to complete the application process for the AOC because making baseless claim about the Government is a futile exercise.”

NEWS

27

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

2nd phase of robotic programme launched for children with disabilities

A section of the audience at the launch on Tuesday

T

he Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD) in partnership with ExxonMobil Guyana has launched Phase 2 of its Science Technology Engineering and Maths (STEM) programme for children with disabili-

ties in Special Education Needs (SEN) schools across Guyana.

The launch was held at the Little Rock Suites conference room, New Amsterdam, Region Six. Phase 2 of the STEM Robotics programme will be done in Regions 3, 4, 5, 6 and 10.

These new clubs will complement the existing five clubs that were started in Phase 1 of the programme.

Delivering the feature address was the Chairman of the Regional Democratic Council of Region Six, David Armogan who lauded ExxonMobil and GCOPD for the innovative

project and also congratulated the partners for expanding the programme to the various regions.

Armogan also expressed his delight that children with disabilities from his region will have an opportunity to participate.

“Empowering youth are important catalysts for development, especially through science and technology. That is why STEM Education is one of ExxonMobil Guyana’s corporate responsibility focus areas. With this initiative, we are also able to deliver on our other main focus areas of youth and community empowerment,” ExxonMobil Community Relations Manager, Suzie DeAbreu stated during her address.

However, in providing an overview of the programme, Head of GCOPD, Ganesh Singh stated that the programme will cater

Head of Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD), Ganesh Singh, addressing the gathering

for 180 children with disabilities from the 12 listed clubs who will be exposed to STEM robotics, environmental awareness, recycling and other topics in the field of STEM. Singh also related that the participants will have an opportunity to conduct science experiments using the chemistry and physics kits provided through the pro-

gramme. It was mentioned that all the participants will also be provided with a robotic kit.

Singh further stated that the sessions will be conducted using a hybrid approach due to the pandemic.

Sessions will be conducted both psychically and virtually by a team of experienced instructors in the various fields.

28

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022

guyanatimesgy.com

DAILY HOROSCOPES

ARCHIE

Stick to what and who you know and trust. Refuse to let your emotions take control when dealing with a friend or loved one. Play fair and expect the same from others.

(March 21-April 19) If you pivot from one thing to another, you’ll lose sight of your goal. Stick to your original plan, then move forward.

A steady pace will lead to bigger and better opportunities. Enjoy time with a loved one.

DILBERT

(April 20-May 20)

(May 21-June 20)

Leave nothing to chance. Do your part to live up to your promises. Refuse to let anyone interfere with your progress or tempt you to do something you know you shouldn’t. Be wary of extravagant offers.

Explore what’s available and how you can use your skills to surpass your expectations. Dig in and put your energy where it will turn a profit for you.

Connect with like-minded people.

PEANUTS (June 21-July 22)

Stop and rethink your next move.

Emotions will escalate if someone makes changes that don’t fit your intentions or plans. Be persistent and head down the path that makes you feel comfortable.

(July 23-Aug. 22) Get into the groove and keep up with what’s current. Staying fit, socializing, networking and participating in something uplifting will lead to new connections and a healthy routine.

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

Revisit the past to figure out the best way to handle someone or something that is causing you grief. Show restraint when someone asks for too much. Look out for your interests and protect your assets.

Keep an open mind, but don’t be gullible. Helping others is honorable, but make sure you don’t get left doing all the work yourself. Leave plenty of time to take care of your needs.

SUDOKU (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Put your energy where it will do some good. Finish what you start before you head out with friends. Take your responsibilities seriously, and you’ll avoid criticism and complaints.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

Stand up for your beliefs and put your reputation on the line. Having confidence and living up to your promises will affect the way others respond to you. Share your thoughts with a loved one.

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Be secretive regarding your plans.

Check out what it will take for you to head in a meaningful direction. Feeling good about what you do will lift your spirits and encourage you to work hard.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Find a unique way to invest your time, money or skills, and it will help you gain respect, recognition and support. Put more energy into initiating the changes that will make your life better.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022

29

Following 32-nil vote…

BCB presidents can now serve 5 consecutive two-year terms

- UCCA benefits from donation of $340K worth of pitch covers, Chesney from BCB generosity

BCB President Hilbert Foster handing over the covers to UCCA Treasurer Victor Thakurdeen in presence of UCCA and BCB officials

B

erbice Cricket Board (BCB) presidents can now serve five consecutive two-years terms after BCB member clubs passed this motion by 32-0 during a special meeting on Sunday last at the Port Mourant Cricket Club ground.

Under the presidency of Keith Foster, the BCB had passed a motion to limit the Presidency to three two-year

terms, but this change was approved by representatives of 10 member clubs and three sub-associations.

Five clubs had submitted to BCB Secretary Angela Haniff a motion seeking a special meeting to amend the BCB’s Constitution, as they felt that county cricket needs continuity of strong and productive leadership.

Representatives of those

clubs noted that when the current Hilbert Foster leadership took over, Berbice Cricket was on the verge of collapse, and they are now very satisfied with the unmatched development and progress it has made over the last four years.

Current President Hilbert Foster, who enjoys widespread support among clubs in the county, is one month

into his third two-year term which ends in December, 2023, and could seek an additional two terms if he so desires.

Hilbert Foster recused himself from chairing the meeting when the motion was being considered, and Vice President of Administration, Albert Smith, guided the motion and conducted the vote.

The cricket clubs which submitted the motion were Mt Sinai, Guymine, Rose Hall, Canje Community Centre, Chesney, and Kildonan.

These five clubs received support of the following associations: West Berbice, Upper Corentyne, Berbice River, Whim Cricket Club, Port Mourant Cricket Club, Police SC, Mental Hospital and RHTY&SC. Two clubs were absent, while illness forced representatives of another to leave the meeting before the vote.

With the motion needing a minimum of 26 votes to surpass the two-thirds majority, it resonated favourably with

BFA President Alden Marslowe pleased with formation of new football club at Bartica

-Marcia Seeram is president of the new club

T

ple of our riverine communities. It’s been a while since these players have been knocking on the door to play association football; so, now that they have a foot in the door, I expect them to make the best of the opportunity.”

The BFA boss relayed that this move confirms a reality he knew existed at Bartica: more people want to play football.

Marslowe explained that most of the young players who have signed up with this new

all 32 voters present.

Members also approved the audited financial report of the BCB. The report, covering the period November 2019 to 31st October 2020, was adopted 32-0, with members hailing the board for its track record of providing audited reports with a clean bill of health since taking office in 2018. The financial report for the period up to October 2021 would shortly be submitted for approval by members.

The BCB also took the opportunity to hand over pitch covers worth $340 thousand dollars to the Upper Corentyne Cricket Association for the benefit of clubs in that area. In handing over the covers to representatives of the UCCA, Foster made it quite clear that the covers are to be used for BCB and UCCA tournaments, especially semifinals and finals.

He urged that association to take proper care of the covers, and noted that the covers were the third of their kind to be obtained by the proactive board. The other two are being kept at the Albion Ground on the Corentyne and at the Cotton Tree Ground in West Berbice.

The BCB has also paid for another two covers, which would be collected shortly, bringing the total to five cov-

ers across the county - an investment of close to $1.7M. Foster has expressed gratitude to Minister Susan Rodrigues and management of Vitality Inc for their investment in Berbice cricket.

The BCB has also handed over funds to the Chesney Cricket Club after the club had sought sponsorship to purchase two 30-foot by 40foot tarpaulins to be used to cover pitches in the event of rain. Funds have also been approved to assist the Whim, Kildonan and Port Mourant Cricket Clubs and the Berbice Cricket Association with tarpaulins, as it takes great effort to stop matches being affected by the weather.

Further, delegates have authorised BCB executives to consider an application from the Tucber Park Cricket Club for full membership of the BCB. The executives would set up a five-man committee to look into the request before taking it back to the full membership for final approval.

The BCB has also updated its membership on a wide range of developments, including the upcoming visit of Sir Curtly Ambrose, the Dr Tulsi Dyal Singh countywide coaching programme, gears for youths, 2022 Awards Ceremony and preparation of inter-county teams.

WI Vice Captain Nicholas Pooran signs sponsorship deal with Powerade

Members of the A.K. Galaxy Football Club

he sport of football is growing by leaps and bounds at Bartica. In addition to the eight clubs that already function within the community, another one has been formed, and is expected to become a member of the Bartica Football Association.

Bartica Football Association President Alden Marslowe has said he is pleased to see another club added to the Bartica community.

This new club is known as the “A.K. Galaxy Football Club”, and consists of a combination of players mostly from the riverine communities of Almanac Creek and Karrau Creek, who have been engaging in practice matches with the clubs of the BFA during 2021.

At the first meeting of the club, which was attended by Marslowe, the members elected their executive committee, which is made up as follows:

- President: Marcia Seeram - Vice President: Mario Perreira - Secretary: Lisa Perreira - Treasurer: Patrina Perreira - Asst. Secretary/Treasurer: Melvin Seeram - Committee Members: Ryan Andries and Ashberg Hohenkirk.

The club will now apply to the BFA for provisional membership, and acquire the opportunity to participate in the programme of the association, with limited membership rights until it is accepted as a full member by the General Council, following a period of probation.

In a statement invited when asked his view on the formation of the new club, Marslowe said, “For me, personally, and also as President of the BFA, it is a proud moment to see the formation of yet another football club in our jurisdiction…and especially since this one springs from a cou-

Nicholas Pooran (left) signing a sponsorship deal with Powerade. At right is Senior Marketing Manager of Caribbean Bottlers (Trinidad and Tobago) Limited, Maritza Ballack

BFA President Alden Marslowe

club have never been part of a football club before. Thus, by bringing them into the programme, the BFA looks forward to their development in the sport, and also to the increased intensity which comes with having a great number of organised clubs competing against each other.

As BFA President, Marslowe has assured the new club of full support from the association, including the formation of a satellite Academy Training Centre at Karrau Village.

I

n support of the Nicholas Pooran Cricket Clinic, West Indies T20 Vice Captain Nicholas Pooran has signed a sponsorship deal with Powerade.

Caribbean Bottlers (Trinidad and Tobago) Limited, distributors of the energy drink, announced the deal on Sunday.

“The new partnership will see Powerade championing the Nicholas Pooran Cricket Clinic, scheduled for later this year, to develop and fine-tune the cricketing talents of youth in T&T,” a media release from the company stated.

The release has said the company has chosen to partner with Pooran “to boost the sport of cricket, and support him in his local, regional and international endeavours.”

Powerade has said it would release more details of the Nicholas Pooran Cricket Clinic at a later date.

Pooran is currently playing for the West Indies in the T20 International series against England at Kensington Oval in Barbados. (Excerpted from TT Loop News)

30

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022

Three GFF Technical Staff members pass new CONCACAF ‘B’ licence course T hree senior members of the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF’s) Technical Department have passed the recently-launched Concacaf B coaching licence course, highest coaching qualification currently offered by the regional governing body.

Via the inaugural 2021 course, GFF Technical Director Ian Greenwood, who also holds the UEFA A licence, GFF Assistant Technical Director Bryan Joseph, and GFF Coaching Mentor Linsworth Gilbert achieved the qualification, aimed at Concacaf member association technical directors and senior coach educators.

This qualification, open only to coaches with a current Concacaf C licence qualification, empowers coaches to deliver Concacaf C licence courses at the local level, which previously had required the involvement of non-domestic Concacaf coach educators.

“We are delighted to be able to facilitate these essential training opportunities for our staff, with the support of Concacaf, as we upskill our coaches and coach educators to improve standards in our programmes and competitions,” Technical Director Greenwood has said.

“The course, which is the

Bryan Joseph, Ian Greenwood and Linsworth Gilbert with their Concacaf B Licence certificates

highest level of qualification currently offered by Concacaf, is vital for the development of football across the region, and we look forward to enabling more of our coaches to graduate through the coaching education pathway in the near future.”

The new course is part of Concacaf’s “Train the Trainer” programme, which currently offers qualification at D, C and B licence level, which is recognised across the Concacaf region.

A record 14 GFF-affiliated

coaches are also currently on their way to achieving the C licence.

“I’m very honoured to have received my Concacaf B licence certificate – I believe it’s proof of, and a fitting reward for, the hard work that I’ve put towards the development of myself as a coach and as an administrator of football,” said Assistant Technical Director Joseph. “I’m overjoyed to know that I am among the first group of coaches that would have received the official Concacaf B license certification. Now we are equipped,

Unfortunate ‘KO’ defeat for Cave at IMMAF World Championships in Abu Dhabi

I

A dejected Ijaz Cave watches as Sweden’s Robin Enontekio is officially declared the winner of their light heavyweight quarterfinal bout

jaz Cave’s first-round Knockout defeat yesterday ended Guyana’s participation at the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) World Championships in Abu Dhabi.

Making his Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) debut, Cave faced off against Sweden’s Robin Enontekio in quarterfinals of the Men’s Light Heavyweight division at the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) Jiu-Jitsu Arena.

Both fighters had received a first-round ‘bye’, and were just one win away from earning a medal.

Just like boxing, fighters are

guarantee a bronze medal if they reach the semi-finals.

Following a scouting report, Coach Bruce Fraser told Cave to keep his guard up, since the Swedish fighter’s style is similar to that of the Guyanese, and at any time it can be ‘lights out’.

Before being the recipient of a timely and ‘on the money’ left hook, Cave was the aggressor, and was winning the round.

With a solid foundation in boxing, Cave connected to Enontekio at the start of the fight.

Unfortunately, he dropped his guard against the prior warning

of Coach Fraser, and Enontekio ‘checked him’.

Doctors rushed into the cage after Cave was unresponsive for a few seconds. He returned to normal after being helped to his feet.

As per tournament protocols, Cave was escorted to the nearby hospital to undergo medical examination.

Dr Sarwan Jagnarain, head of the Guyanese delegation, accompanied the fighter to the hospital, and reported that he has been kept for observation under the tournament’s concussion protocols.

With the win, the Swedish fighter picked up his second victory in the Octagon in eight outings.

He was coming off a four-fight consecutive defeat.

The Guyana Police Force Lance Corporal, along with fellow fighter Corwin D’Anjou, became the first Guyanese to participate at an International Mixed Martial Arts Federation World Championships.

This edition of the IMMAF World Championships is touted as the largest in the tournament’s 10year history, with over 450 athletes from 57 countries participating.

(Reporting by Rawle Toney in Abu Dhabi) (Compliments: Guyana Mixed Martial Arts Federation/ National Sports Commission)

Final match in the GCB Best of Best red ball 4-day tournament commences today

T

he third and final match in the GCB’s Best of Best red ball four-day tournament begins today (Wednesday January 26, 2022) at the Guyana National

Stadium, Providence.

The scheduled time for the match is from 0930-16:30 hours each day. The two teams for the match are as follows:

Leon Johnson’s Team: Chandrapaul Hemraj, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Tevin Imlach, Leon Johnson, Vishaul Singh, Anthony Bramble, Sachin Singh, Clinton Pestano, Junior Sinclair, Gudakesh Motie, Antony Adams, Ronaldo Ali Mohamed, Joshua Jones, Demetri Cameron, Qumar Torrington.

Keemo Paul’s Team: Trevon Griffith, Raymond Perez, Marvin Dindyal, Kevlon Anderson, Kemol Savory, Askhaya Persaud, Joshua Persaud, Kemo Paul, Nial Smith, Keon Joseph, Ronsford Beaton, Kevin Sinclair, Veerasammy Permaul, Steven Sankar, Ashmead Nedd.

we are able to contribute heavily to the development of football in Guyana and to deliver Concacaf C license course to our local coaches.

We want to encourage all the coaches out there to push towards upskilling themselves and trying to attain the highest licenses that are available, so we can all contribute to the growth of the game in Guyana.”

In order to maintain the validity of a qualification, coaches must undergo regular refresher courses and assessment.

Failure to refresh qualifications in the past led to a situation where no GFF-affiliated coach had valid certification when the current administration took over in November 2015. With the support

of Concacaf, the GFF has since facilitated training and certification for 72 Concacaf D-licensed and Concacaf C-licensed coaches as part of its long-term strategy to sustainably grow and maintain a professionally qualified pool of coaches in Guyana.

“Aspiring to achieve the B licence has been a personal and national objective for me,” said Coach Gilbert, who is also President of the Guyana Football Coaches Association. “The GFF’s national coaching education programme has reflected ambition in the coaches across the country. The support we are now getting from the GFF is great, and it shows that our football is improving, both from a coaching perspective and from a player development perspective,” he said.

“It’s very important for us to continue to aspire to greater heights, and to achieve higher levels of coach licences,” Gilbert continued. “As a nation, being able to be involved in higher licensing programmes gives our national programme a boost, and it also gives us the confidence that we have the level of education to be able to compete, not only in Concacaf, but more generally at an international level.”

Active football coaches who are interested in pursuing official coaching qualifications should contact their local GFF regional association or the GFF Technical Department for further information about introductory courses that act as the first step on the journey

through the graded stages of Concacaf certification.

“The GFF Executive Committee, under my leadership, has been steadfast in its commitment to investing in and facilitating the professionalisation and development of our coaches, with the vital support of our close partners in Concacaf, FIFA and UEFA,” GFF President Wayne Forde has said. “We still have some way to go to reach the levels of certification we would like to see across the board, but I am very pleased to say we are rapidly making up for the previous long-term absence of a sustained coaching education strategy in Guyana, which held back the professional development of our coaches and players for decades.

“I want to commend our technical staff, under the leadership of Ian Greenwood, for overseeing this turnaround in the last few years,” Forde added. “I would also like to congratulate these three individuals for their dedication and hard work in achieving these new qualifications, which means we can now accelerate GFF-delivered coaching education up to, and including, the Concacaf C licence.

I want to encourage all budding and existing coaches to come forward and begin or continue their own development through this structured coaching programme, so that we continue to build stronger foundations for the future of football together.”

Brian Ramphal Educational Trust Fund…

BCB presents educational grants to 10 West Berbice cricketers

“T

Some of the students posing with executives of the BCB and their parents

he Berbice Cricket Board (BCB), once I remain in charge as President, would continue to invest in the educational careers of our youths, as we strongly believe that education is the key to success on and off the cricket field. Less than five percent of youth cricketers would go on to become professional players, and, as such, it is important that we made sure that the others have an educational background to fall back on.”

Those were the words of BCB President Hilbert Foster as he spoke to youth cricketers at a simple presentation ceremony concerning the Brian Ramphal Educational Trust Fund for West Berbice at the BCB office last week.

Since election of the current executives, the BCB has invested heavily in education, and in 2022, more than 100 youths would benefit from several trust funds set up across the county.

Foster has said that apart from the grants, the BCB, with support from the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC), has assisted cricketers with bicycles,

school bags and educational materials.

Dozens of youths have also attended social development seminars organised under the BCB Patron’s Fund. The BCB President has urged parents present to be the best role models possible to their children, and to drive home the importance of saying yes to education, sports, religion, culture, and no to drugs, crime, alcohol and suicide.

He also urged the parents to play an important role in the players’ cricketing career, by attending matches to offer moral support and to support the management of the different clubs.

Noting that it is their children who benefit from the hard work of the club officials, the BCB President urged the parents to assist the clubs by offering their skills as scorers, umpires, cooks, or even by using their vehicles to transport players to venues.

Players who received the vouchers worth $10,000 are: Christina Soloman, Queney Marks, David Alfred, Justin Samid, Nathaniel Lynch, Simon Anandram, Kishan Lalsa, Lakeraj Hemraj, Saife Sataer and Renata Liverpool. Brian

Ramphal, sponsor of the fund is an overseas-based Guyanese who invests heavily in the tech industry.

CLASSIFIED ADS ACCOMMODATIONS Aracari Hotel, West Bank Demerara (Versailles – between Harbor Bridge and Vreed-n-Hoop) – Air Conditioned Comfort. Amenities include TV, Restaurant, Bar, Swimming Pool, Gym. Free Parking, Free WIFI. Spend 7 nights and get 1 Free. Rates from $45 US Breakfast Included.

Long term rates available. Phone: 264-2946-9 www.aracariresort.com

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITYRESTAURANT RENTAL West Bank Demerara, (Versaillesbetween Harbor Bridge and Vreedn-Hoop): - Aracari Resort – Turn Key Business. Furnished and equipped. Covid-19 reduced capacity is 60. Phone 264 2946; 626-5290.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Betway T20I series: 3rd match…

31

West Indies, England ready to set Kensington Oval on fire -Jason Holder aiming for consistency

Jason Roy and Moeen Ali have “scored some runs” on tour so far

By Brandon Corlette in Barbados

T

just to help guide and nurture the young talent that we have,” Holder explained.

Speaking about his resolve to see his team emerge victorious, Holder has said he is focused on the third match in this T20I series, and the others will follow.

“I’m just focused on what’s ahead tomorrow,” he said. “Tomorrow is our next encounter, so there’s no point in looking at the last three matches before we get to the one tomorrow,” he said.

In the second T20I, the West Indies had registered a pedestrian performance in the field. Holder has said: “I don’t think we were good enough in the field in the last encounter, and that probably hurt us in the end.”

The beautiful Kensington Oval remains limited to 50% capacity due to COVID restrictions, but that has done little to dampen the party atmosphere in the stands. Mild temperatures in the mid-20s Celsius are forecast for the start of the match, as is a 40% chance of rain, with cloud cover increasing throughout the evening.

England's preference for these fixtures has been to bat first, in order to gain some experience in defending under the lights. This

wo absolutely scintillating contests have already taken place in the Betway T20I series between England and the West Indies, being played at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados. The series is set at 1-1, and today, Wednesday January 26, these determined contestants will continue to battle for supremacy from 16:00h Eastern Caribbean time.

Brimming with confidence after his exploits with the ball in claiming six wickets thus far, all-rounder Jason Holder is calling for consistency from the West Indies players as this battle against England continues.

The former captain has also spoken about the experience he is passing on to the young ones in the group.

"I just try to give anything to the team that I think will benefit us. We have a relatively inexperienced group, so I just try to help out as much as I can and give what advice I can give. I don’t think it’s a situation where I have to give too much information, because that becomes clouded for individuals; so, I keep it as simple as possible. Anything I pick up, I pass it on Jason Holder has taken six to the captain, and then obviously to wickets so far individual players, but I think my role is

England would want to find that winning mojo

was particularly evident in the first match, which was played on a central strip. A fresh pitch is in the prospect for the third game. That surface was used in the warm-up wherein Jason Roy scored a century against a BCA XI. For England, the death-bowling would be under the microscope.

"We are! We're just getting it wrong," said England captain Eoin Morgan when asked why his side wasn’t trying to bowl yorkers.

England T20I squad: Eoin Morgan (capt), Moeen Ali, Tom Banton, Sam Billings, Liam Dawson, George Garton, Chris Jordan, Liam Livingstone, Saqib Mahmood, Tymal Mills, David Payne, Adil Rashid, Jason Roy, Phil Salt, Reece Topley, James Vince, Harry Brook.

West Indies T20I squad: Kieron Pollard (capt), Nicholas Pooran (vice- captain), Fabian Allen, Darren Bravo, Roston Chase, Sheldon Cottrell, Dominic Drakes, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Jason Holder, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Rovman Powell, Romario Shepherd, Odean Chris Jordan, at home, has enjoyed his time with the bat so far Smith, Hayden Walsh Jr.

“Bat For A Chance” team up with “Energy” And “Virgin Atlantic” to facilitate cricket kit donation to Barbados via local partners … Chris Jordan, Roland Butcher join cricket kit charity et al to facilitate kit donations to projects in Barbados ahead of England T20I

B

at For A Chance (BFAC) has recently partnered with Energy and Virgin Atlantic to roll out about an exciting programme of kit donations scheduled for 2022 across the world, starting with Barbados, ahead of the January West Indies vs England T20 games at the Kensington Oval.

The kit donations would be

overseen by the charity’s global ambassador, Barbadian-born England player Chris Jordan, and The Roland Butcher Academy, with assistance from Cricket West Indies (CWI).

Courtesy of sponsor Energy, and with support of Virgin Atlantic and global freight and supply chain experts The Woodland Group, the charity would be providing kits to

girls who would otherwise not have access to the sport. Proceedings would take place at the Springer Memorial Secondary Girls School, Christ Church Girls Primary School, and the University of the West Indies Female Cricket Team in Barbados.

This would be done through local partners, former Middlesex and England batsman Roland Butcher and Cricket West Indies.

The presentation was made on Monday at the Sir Garfield Sobers statue at Kensington Oval, with representatives from Cricket West Indies, Barbados Cricket Association, Virgin Atlantic and the British High Commission being in attendance.

Energy, a leading manufacturer of construction equipment, has sponsored the purchase of the kits to be donated in Barbados alongside equipment collected for Bat For A Chance by Sussex Cricket Foundation. Energy CEO Kevin Morris has said: “Energy are delighted to support this comingtogether of companies and people

looking to do something positive through sport. It’s a really exciting project to be involved with, and all credit to ‘Will’ for making it happen”.

Paul Fallon, Head of Commercial at Virgin Cargo, who was joined by some of Virgin Atlantic’s cabin crew to participate in the kit handover, has said, “We couldn’t be more thrilled to announce our partnership with Bat For A Chance to bring our expertise in transporting cargo to such a worthy project. At Virgin Atlantic, our purpose is to empower everyone to take on the world, and use our business as a force for good through our communities, our people, and our partners. Partnering with Bat For A Chance means Virgin Atlantic Cargo is able to bring a real opportunity for children to participate in this wonderful sport, and experience the joy of cricket in both Barbados and across the world.

“As we look to the future, we can’t wait to see what this

Compliments of:

partnership holds next, as we continue working together in this exciting chapter.”

The charity’s founder and CEO, Will Gaffney, has said, “We are so grateful to Energy, Virgin Atlantic, The Woodland Group, Roland Butcher, and Cricket West Indies for helping us bring this project together. It is a great start to 2022 - a year which will see us bring together corporates and donors in tangible investment into cricket projects in the UK and globally.

“Bat For A Chance has the simple aim of breaking down barriers which prevent people from having access to opportunities to play the wonderful game of cricket. We are also delighted to have Chris Jordan and Lydia Greenway on board as our ambassadors, to help us deliver this goal.”

Barbadian-born former Middlesex and England player Roland Butcher has said, “It is amazing to see how cricket continues to inspire young people to do great things. The Bat For

A Chance initiative is a brilliant example of young people making a difference by making sport accessible. It is really fitting that the first global ambassador for this brilliant initiative is a fellow Barbadian and fellow England cricketer, Chris Jordan, and that the first kit-drop of 2022 is in Barbados, where I made my debut for England.

“I hope this is the beginning of a long relationship between the charity and Barbados. I am delighted to be working with Will, Chris, and the teams which will benefit from the generous donations of kit; and look forward to the charity going from strength to strength”.

Global Ambassador for the charity, Barbarian-born Surrey and England player Chris Jordan, has said, “I am so proud of what Will Gaffney and the charity are doing for kids in Barbados. Hopefully, some future stars of West Indies cricket will learn to love the game because of the really important work being done here today.”

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2022

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

Betway T20I series: 3rd match…

West Indies are confidently heading into the third match

West Indies, England ready to set Kensington Oval on fire -Jason Holder aiming for consistency

Page 21

HERO CPL launches sports marketing course with UWI

T

Hero CPL CEO Pete Russell

he Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and the University of the West Indies (UWI) have partnered to launch a sports marketing course which would give students from across the Caribbean an accredited qualification while also benefiting from the knowledge of key Hero CPL staff.

The course has been created by the UWI Faculty of Sport and the Hero CPL

Marketing team, and it would give students insights into the running of a hugely successful sporting event. At the end of the course, students would be given opportunity to work with the Hero CPL team as interns during the tournament.

Every year, Hero CPL offers internships which allow young people from across the region to gain experience in a number of departments, including op-

erations, marketing, and sponsorship. The interns are fully integrated with the Hero CPL team, and have become an important part in delivering a successful tournament, especially during a global pandemic.

The course would be run as a pilot in 2022, with the plan being to roll this out further in future years. The course would include brand management, developing marketing plans, public relations strategy, social media and digital content

planning, and many other aspects involved in a successful sporting event.

Pete Russell, Hero CPL CEO, has said: “We have always found involving talented young people in the Hero CPL as interns a positive and rewarding ex-

perience, and we are very pleased that we are able to further cement our relationship with UWI by formalising the internship programme with this accredited qualification.

“Upskilling the next generation is an import-

ant part of what Hero CPL does each year, and this course takes that to another level.

“We are very much looking forward to getting started with this year’s pilot course and seeing this scheme grow from there.”

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.