Guyana Times -- Wednesday, June 8, 2022

PM, Venezuelan Ambassador discuss enhancing bilateral relations

P14 Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 5033

THE BEACON OF TRUTH WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022

Govt aims at providing 10,000 part-time jobs countrywide – VP Jagdeo Page 3

...initiative for over 1000 part-time jobs launched in Reg 5

Body of Reonol Williams dumped in ECD trench

See story on page 2

– car owner confesses to committing act

President Ali $760M in to attend contracts Summit of the Americas this week inked for Joint

$100 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Miner, girlfriend allegedly set on fire while trying to make peace

P5

Active COVID cases climb P15 to 949 after 128 new infections Region 3 P17 records 17% increase in armed robberies – Commander

File on Goed Fortuin fatal accident sent to DPP for advice P10

See story on page 9

See story on page 7

– corruption, security, trade & democracy among topics on agenda

PRICE

Services projects

Norton proposes appointment of substantive Chancellor, CJ to President Ali

– says judicial officers have demonstrated impartiality through their rulings over the years See story on page 11 – dispatches letter to Govt to this effect

Schools will close for P17 July-August break – Min Manickchand Regions 8 & 9 road link to alleviate high transportation cost when P17 completed

2 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Body of Reonol Williams dumped in ECD trench – car owner confesses to committing act

Dead: Reonol Williams

A

decomposed body suspected to be that of 50-year-

old Reonol Williams, who was involved in an accident at Enmore, East Coast Demerara (ECD) some two weeks ago, was found in a trench at Coldingen, ECD, on Tuesday.

Following the accident, the driver of the motor car involved had picked up the injured man to take him to the hospital but this was never done. Instead, Williams disappeared without a trace.

His family had reported the man’s disappearance to the Police and an investigation was launched.

The owner of the car was reportedly arrested but after interrogation, he claimed that he was in the interior and that one of his nephews

Suspect: Daniel Melbourne

had taken the car without his knowledge. However, after almost two weeks and no signs of Williams, the family requested an audience with Police Commissioner (ag) Clifton Hicken.

After the meeting, the Major Crimes Unit attached to the Guyana Police Force was instructed to take up the case. As such, the owner of the car involved in the accident was rearrested. On Tuesday, the car’s owner, during interrogation took detectives to the location along the Coldingen access

Police cordoning off the crime scene on Tuesday

road where the body was discovered during a search.

When contacted, Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum confirmed that a body was found in the bushes, but noted that due to the state of the body, a DNA test will have to be done to ascertain whether or not the body is that of Williams.

Nevertheless, he stated that Williams’ sister identified the body to be that of her brother based on the clothes on the remains found. She told detectives that her brother was wearing the same clothes when he went missing on May 23.

Further, Blanhum reported that the suspect subsequently confessed that he

was the driver of the motor car at the time of the accident. He reportedly admitted that after he struck down Williams, he placed him in his vehicle and as he was driving, he observed that Williams was motionless. Out of fear, he further admitted that he stopped the car at a bridge in Coldingen, ECD, and disposed of the body in the trench.

After doing this, he told detectives that he went home and informed his mother that his vehicle was missing and that he had made a report to the Police.

Further, he also admitted that the initial information he provided to the Police about him being in the inte-

rior was false.

It was reported that Williams was struck down along the East Coast of Demerara by a red Toyota Fielder wagon during the wee hours of May 23. A friend of Williams, who witnessed the accident, had gone to inform his family that the injured man was taken to the hospital. After checking several hospitals – both public and private – the man was not found.

On Tuesday, prior to the discovery of the body, Deputy Commissioner Ravindradat Budhram told reporters that the case was initially being investigated as a vehicular accident but now, the nature of the probe has changed.

3 Govt aims at providing 10,000 parttime jobs countrywide – VP Jagdeo NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

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

Wednesday, June 8 – 23:30h – 01:00h and Thursday, June 9 – No closure.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Wednesday, June 8 – 10:20h – 11:50h and Thursday, June 9 – 11:30h – 13:00h.

...initiative for over 1000 part-time jobs launched in Reg Five imposed undue hardships on the citizens.

The situation was exacerbated when the pandemic hit and the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) shut down the country, resulting in the loss of another 35,000 to 40,000 jobs. In light of this inherited situation, the VP explained to the crowd that the Government has put mechanisms in place to reduce the economic impacts on Guyanese.

An estimated 50,000

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

There will be thundery showers and light rain showers during the day and night. Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East South-Easterly to Northerly between 2.23 metres and 4.91 metres.

High Tide: 11:13h and 23:50h reaching maximum heights of 2.25 metres and 2.29 metres.

Low Tide: 17:16h reaching a minimum height of 0.93 metre.

SATURDAY, JUNE 4, 2022

LOTTERY NUMBERS F

01 05 12

24 25 27

FREE TICKET

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TUESDAY, JUNE 7, 2022

DAILY MILLIONS

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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

$120.57/barrel

+0.88

Rough Rice

$305.96/ton

+0.28

London Sugar

$564.00/ton

0.00

Live Spot Gold

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1849.80

$1850.80

Low/High Change

$1838.40 -2.30

$1856.50 -0.12%

country was locked down for about one year.

In the period leading up to the March 2020 national elections, the now ruling PPP/C while on the campaign trail had promised to create 50,000 jobs during its five-year term. The party had promised that sugar workers would have gotten back their jobs.

Previously, Jagdeo had said that there is a lack of skilled labour and Government is putting things in place to address

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

A

s the demand for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government’s part-time job initiative grows, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has revealed that the Administration will target 10,000 persons who will benefit from these jobs countrywide.

Jagdeo visited Region Five on Tuesday, where he launched the part-time jobs initiative at the Mahaicony Technical Institute. The Vice President emphasised that the initiative is meant to provide people with extra income, while they seek to improve themselves.

Jagdeo announced that over 1000 persons would benefit from the programme in that region. But countrywide, the number of persons expected to benefit has risen from the 8000 quoted earlier this year, to 10,000.

According to the Vice President, these 10,000 persons will be expected to make full use of the programme while explaining that it is designed in a way to minimise the need for persons to travel far distances.

“This initiative is to give people an opportunity to get an income, while they are studying or looking at something else. And there’s going to be 10,000 Guyanese.

In this room we probably have 200 people. So, imagine what 10,000 looks like.

So, 10,000 of our people working through this programme.”

“So, I hope that all of you make full use of this programme. This is not free money. You have to work for 10 months. But we will ensure that you’re placed in an area that minimises you having to travel and all of that. So, when we designed the programme, we designed it in a manner where you can be placed in Government facilities close to you and even private facilities that perform a social function.”

Examples Jagdeo provided of this are day-care facilities. He also noted that from the time they are employed, these persons will become employees of the State. Persons in Region Five registered for the jobs and signed their contracts to

A section of the audience during Jagdeo’s outreach in Region 5

begin work during the Vice President’s visit.

Jagdeo also explained that pre-COVID, Guyana lost some 35,000 jobs under the previous Government, while heavy taxation and the unconscionable shutdown of the sugar industry

jobs were lost from different sectors during the reign of the previous APNU/AFC Administration, the majority from the sugar industry. Additionally, between 35,000 to 40,000 persons were made jobless when the

this. This is being done by offering training for persons. The former Head of State pointed out that while there is a labour shortage in Region Four, Region Five and Six have a shortage of skilled labour.

4

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 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

World Food Safety Day – “Safer food, better health”

W

orld Food Safety Day 2022’s theme “Safer food, better health” makes clear the link between good food and good health. As the world grows ever more aware that food insecurity is rising, the safety of what we consume is under threat as well, as food products recalls and food-borne diseases span the globe. Food safety is an integral part of food security.

On Tuesday, as we celebrated the fourth World Food Safety Day, Guyana is on a mission to transform the agriculturefood system. The country has significantly advanced its food security and nutrition agenda, and its efforts on the food health and safety front are also evident, with the passing of the Food Safety Act and establishment of the Guyana Food Safety Authority (GFSA) to implement the Act. In July 2021, GFSA staff and National Plant Protection Officers, who function as inspectors under the Authority, underwent training at the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS).

“Safe food is essential to human health and well-being and is one of the most critical guarantors for good health.

The benefits of safe food include improved nutrition and reduced absenteeism in schools and in the workplace. Foodborne diseases affect 1 in 10 people worldwide each year.

There are over 200 of these diseases, ranging from diarrhoea to cancers,” the World Health Organisation (WHO) pointed out.

That figure of 1 in 10 persons translates to more than 700 million persons, although the latest available estimate from 2015 reads 600 million and 420,000 of them die as a result, but these statistics, alarming as they are, mask a deeper truth – at some point in our lives, most of us will experience a food-borne disease and millions of us will die from them.

Children under the age of five are at particularly high risk, with some 125,000 dying from foodborne diseases every year.

Contaminated food also causes long-term health problems, further increasing the disease burden. US$110 billion is lost each year in productivity and medical expenses resulting from unsafe food in low- and middle-income countries.

This highlights the importance of making sure the food we eat is not contaminated with potentially harmful bacteria, parasites, viruses, toxins, and chemicals. Food can become contaminated at any point during production, distribution, and preparation. Everyone along the production chain, from producer to consumer, has a role to play to ensure the food we eat does not cause diseases.

Unsafe food is a threat to human health and economies, the United Nations has warned. It disproportionally affects vulnerable and marginalised people, especially women and children, populations affected by conflict, and migrants.

In its efforts to mainstream food safety in the public agenda, and reduce the burden of food-borne diseases globally, the WHO has called for a set of specific actions in multiple sectors to make food safer: Policymakers need to support policy measures to strengthen national food safety systems and ensure they comply with food safety standards, as well as engage in multi-sectoral collaboration at the local, national, regional, and global levels.

Food businesses must comply with international food standards and engage employees, suppliers, and other stakeholders to grow and develop a food safety culture.

At the same time, educational institutions and workplaces need to promote safe food handling and support food safety.

And consumers need to practise safe food handling at home and keep informed and promote food safety.

And with the adoption of the updated WHO Global Strategy for Food Safety 10 days ago, another milestone in the work to promote health, keep the world safe, and protect the vulnerable, the international community is sure to make even more progress on achieving safer food and better health for all.

This Caleb Benjamin photo shows an aerial view of Aruwai Resort in Bartica. This is one of the entries in the Tourism Ministry's "Snap and Share" competition in observance of Guyana’s 56th Independence Anniversary

M&CC responds to PM Phillips

Dear Editor, The Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown note the recent statements attributed to Honourable Prime Minister Brigadier (retd) Mark Phillips, which were reported on June 6, 2022.

First, the Council has expressed no confidence in City Engineer Colvern Venture, following repeated challenges and failures.

This decision of the Council has been forwarded to the Local Government Commission; unfortunately, over six months later, there can be no pronouncement. The Honourable Prime Minister could use his good office, given his

interest in affairs of the city, to have this matter addressed. The LGC cannot be derelict in its duty to act on the decisions of the Council to bring relief to the citizens of Georgetown.

Secondly, it must be noted that the Council has repeatedly complained about the taxes owed by state agencies, which account for a significant debt to the city. These resources are vital to ensure consistent service is given to the citizens of Georgetown -- a city which continues to be pressured owing to outdated laws, and is grappling with a changing landscape as a result of the new oil and gas economy.

Thirdly, the Honourable Prime Minister, in his warnings, must indicate to Government agencies, such as the Ministry of Public Works and the Guyana Revenue Authority, that illegal drainage works in the city would only compromise our delicate drainage infrastructure if done without consultation with the municipality. The Council has noted several illegal construction activities in the city, most recently on Camp Street in front of GRA, which are being done without even the courtesy of consultation with the engineers of the Municipality.

We can only hope that these works do not negatively af-

fect surrounding drains.

The Council also encourages the Honourable Prime Minister to warn his colleagues that His Excellency’s “One Guyana” initiative can only be realised if all stakeholders are involved in the process.

The Mayor and Councillors continue to advocate for meaningful engagement and partnerships for the benefit of the citizens of Georgetown.

The Council frowns on attempts to score cheap political points and engaging in one-upmanship as we work together for a better future for all Guyanese.

M&CC

The development accelerates

Dear Editor, The PPP/C, in its Manifesto in 2020, made a commitment to provide 50,000 jobs for Guyanese by 2025, and has since embarked on many mega and small business initiatives which would not only ensure that this bears fruit, but would launch the country on an unparalleled development course. Many thousands more jobs would be created when many of these mega projects come fully on stream; the groundwork is already laid.

This is in stark contrast to what the Coalition did from 2015 to 2025, when thousands of Guyanese, some 35,000, were thrown under the bus, and had to endure severe deprivations, including hunger, while those in the Coalition enjoyed not only humongous salary increases, but buttered this with massive corruption, rape of the Treasury, and the selling out

of our oil patrimony. We must not lose sight of this ever.

Beyond a shadow of a doubt, Guyana is once again developing at an alarming and unprecedented rate, and the recent announcement by Vice President Dr Jagdeo is just another of the visionary initiatives which will bring immediate relief to 10,000 unemployed persons across the country. Thousands are already employed. The Vice President made it clear that these are not temporary jobs but part-time ones which would go on indefinitely.

This initiative alone would cost the Government nearly $5 billion annually, but this Government has never flinched when it comes to improving the lives of Guyanese.

It never attaches a cost to this determination. Let those who criticise this Government calculate the multiplier effect this one project would have on the economy. The spend-

ing would not only further improve the lives of Guyanese, but would create additional jobs. Many such economic projects are already affected, and dividends are seen.

But apart from the economic benefits, this project would improve the quality of Government’s service delivery being offered across the country. These jobs would play a significant role in this regard. Therefore, it is not only about creating employment, but it is about improving the lives of all Guyanese in terms of service delivery.

Many times, people complain about the poor quality of service delivery at some of our Government agencies, and this initiative indeed would go a long way in bringing immediate relief.

Despite these benefits, the Opposition Leader attempted to malign this initiative when he questioned the qualification of those who would be em-

ployed. Mr. Norton should try to be a responsible Opposition Leader, but he has so far displayed ignorance of his role, and is bent on sowing mischief and discord. Dr Jagdeo gave him a fitting reply when he told Berbicians that, “The qualification is that they are Guyanese, they do not have any other qualifications to get the jobs.” Is this Norton’s patriotism?

It boggles the mind that the Coalition destroyed thousands of jobs and is still embarking on a mission to willfully obstruct the employment of Guyanese. The PNC and the AFC were the architects in destroying Guyana’s economy. The Coalition is adept at taking away bread and butter from the people. Guyanese, beware of the Coalition, it’s an ill wind that brings no good.

Yours sincerely, H Yusuf

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022

5

News

Miner, girlfriend allegedly set on fire while trying to make peace

Sheldon Harry and Gracey

By LaWanda McAllister

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22-year-old miner and his 30-yearold Venezuelan girlfriend are both critical at the Georgetown Public Hospital after they were both set on fire by a friend during a row at Puruni Landing, Mazaruni River Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) on Sunday.

Reports are that the suspect is on the run.

Those injured are Sheldon

Harry of Parika, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), and his girlfriend Gracey (only name given).

When contacted, the injured man’s sister Sheneel Richards explained that she was informed that the couple was set on fire by a man who is known to the family.

The woman said at the time of the incident, her brother was at his camp at Puruni Landing when an argument broke out between two friends.

The suspect with the gasoline bottle minutes before setting the couple on fire

She said in the height of the argument, her brother’s friend threatened that he was going to harm the woman with whom he was arguing. So, in a bid to escape the man’s threat, the woman left her mining camp and went over to her brother’s camp where she stayed the entire day.

While there, the suspect went over to Harry’s camp and continued to threaten the woman. Harry report-

edly attempted to calm him down but instead, he left the camp and returned with a cutlass, and advanced toward the woman.

The sister explained that her brother’s girlfriend, Gracey, who is also a friend of the other woman, intervened but this angered the suspect.

“He chucked Gracey out of the way.”

Richards said after seeing this, her brother became angry and an argument ensued between him and the suspect.

“The suspect left the camp with a plan in he mind.

When he come back, he come back with a bucket of gasoline, and a stick that was soaked in gasoline with fire on it. My brother knowing that he and this boy were friends all the time, he didn’t expect that he would do him anything.”

“He kept trying to calm the boy [the suspect] down all the time and the boy keep running up to my brother and was trying to throw the gasoline on him. It so happened that Gracey hold my brother hand, pull he, and they start running,” the sister explained.

The now injured man and woman attempted to run but the suspect gave chase. It was during this time that he dowsed them with the gaso-

Part-time jobs Dear Editor, The initiative by the Government to provide jobs for the unemployed in different communities is indeed commendable. Forty thousand dollars for ten days’ work, in addition to any other income earned for the remaining days, compounded with the earnings of other family members would greatly assist to cushion the increase in the cost of living and defray other expenses.

I want to suggest, however, with the increase in crimes experienced in all communities, that the Government should consider the employment of the unemployed as security guards. That alone would provide thousands of jobs, in keeping with the Government’s objective.

Such employment, however, should be in keeping with the relevant laws with respect to an hour of work, overtime, NIS, and leave entitlements. The suggestion of forty thousand dollars for ten days of work is already above the minimum wage, but once they exceed eight hours per day, overtime should be paid. Their leave at the end of the year should be calculated on the basis of every 160 hours, or twenty days worked, one

day leave.

Guards should also be provided with some form of visible identification, a cell phone with numbers of prominent citizens, community policing groups, and the nearest Police station; and placed at strategic locations, such as ingress and egress within the community. I want to suggest two shifts, viz 4:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. and 12:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. with the graveyard shift being alternated every other week.

The guards should be given detailed instructions on performance requirements, such as noting and reporting any suspicious activities, especially by strangers.

Responsibility for payment of wages, adherence to the respective laws, and N.I.S. deductions should be the responsibility of the N.D.C, or someone specially appointed by the Government to ensure this. The business community and other responsible citizens within can also be asked to assist in monitoring the performance of the guards, since the presence of the guards would enhance the security of the community. This, in addition to other jobs, such as clearing canals and gar-

bage within the community, cannot be construed as handouts or racially-driven, since it would be payment

for services rendered.

Yours sincerely, D Singh

Harry was severely burnt

line and set them alight.

“My brother tried running to the water to put out the fire, but he fall, and my sister-in-law was burned bad too because she was trying to out the fire on him… she pulled he closer to the water and she started throwing sand on him.”

After realising what he had done, Richards said the suspect turned around and started throwing sand on her brother to help quench the fire. However, after seeing the severity of his friend’s burns, he buckled from the scene.

“My brother said he remembered watching up and

seeing him and his girlfriend over he throwing sand on him. My brother managed to get up and he and his girl tried to go on the boat to get to the landing that was far away… he couldn’t start the boat because he was in too much pain... thank God for another boat that saved them,” she explained.

Harry and his girlfriend managed to make it to a pharmacy at the landing, where they were later transported to the hospital in the community and then medevacked to the Georgetown Public Hospital where they are both in a critical state.

“Gracey was burned severely but not as bad as he.

They were both in the burn unit. She was burned on top, her two hands, her chest, her neck, and her side. He was burned all over his body. He received second and third-degree burns at 80% of his body.”

“They had to put him in a coma because the pain was too much for him. His lung, kidneys, and everything started failing because the pain was too much for him.

He came out, but he is recovering slowly,” she said.

The family is hoping that justice prevails for the couple, and for the suspect to be caught so that he can feel the full brunt of the law.

Correction

Guyana Times, in its Tuesday, June 7, 2022 edition, under the headline “GNBS, FAO collaborate to measure prevalence of food insecurity”, inadvertently stated that the Bureau of Statistics is a part of the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS). The Bureau of Statistics, with which the FAO is collaborating, is part of the Finance Ministry.

Guyana Times sincerely apologises for any inconvenience this may have caused.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022

06:00 06:30 07:00 08:00 09:00 10:00 11:00 11:30 12:00 13:30 14:00 14:30 15:00 16:00 16:30 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 20:30 21:30 23:30 00:00

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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022

Page

Foundation

MINISTRY OF EDUCATION

National Grade 6 Assessment 2016 Mathematics Paper 2

Switch up your setting

Find several places to study and change up your space if you find that it is no longer a working space for you.

Know when and where you study best. It may be that your focus at 10:00pm is not as sharp as at 10:00am. Perhaps you are more productive at the dinner table with background noise, or in the library. Perhaps when you study on your bed, you fall asleep.

Have a variety of places that are good study environments for you. That way wherever you are, you can find your perfect study spot. After a while, you might find that your spot is too comfortable and no longer is a good place to study, so it’s time to hop to a new spot!

National Grade 6 Assessment 2016 English Language Paper 2

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

7

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

President Ali to attend Summit of the Americas this week – corruption, security, trade & democracy among topics on agenda

P

resident Dr Irfaan Ali has confirmed that he will be leading a delegation to Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA), to attend the ninth Summit of the Americas, which is slated for this week, the first time the summit will be held in the US since 1994.

In a statement on Tuesday from the Office of the President, it was explained that President Ali will be accompanied by First Lady Arya Ali, Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd, Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud and Ambassador George Talbot.

The event is being held under the theme “Building a Sustainable, Resilient, and Equitable Future”.

Through the summit, leaders from the United States, North, Central, and South America and the Caribbean are expected to explore economic relationships and common goals for the Western Hemisphere.

Discussions are expected to cover topics such as democracy, clean energy, digital transformation, climate change, migration, recovery from the coronavirus pandemic, building resil-

President Dr Irfaan Ali

ience, and boosting economic growth. A number of initiatives are also expected to be launched in some of these areas.

“Over the years, the summits have focused on critical cooperation in the Americas. This has allowed countries to work together to promote democracy and human rights, increase economic competitiveness, promote development, improve access to clean energy and communication technology, strengthen regional security, and counter illicit traf-

ficking,” the Office of the President explained.

“In the eighth summit, leaders had committed to fighting the corruption that undermines democratic governance when they met in Lima, Peru, in 2018. The United States is hosting for the first time since the summit began in Miami in 1994 with President Bill Clinton.

A packed schedule of events is carded for the week, including plenary and roundtable discussions.”

Several regional leaders had previously threatened

to boycott the summit on the basis of whether Cuban and Venezuelan leaders are excluded. Among the leaders who have threatened boycotts if Cuba and Venezuela are excluded are Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, Bolivian President Luis Arce and Antigua, and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne.

Besides Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley, mere hours after he left Guyana following the successful conclusion of the Agri-Investment Forum and Expo last month, also confirmed that he would be attending the summit.

“I will be attending the summit and I expect that if not all, a majority of my Caricom colleagues will be there and we have serious and interesting matters to engage the US on and we look forward to that,” Rowley told Trinidadian media.

Venezuela has been embroiled in deep economic and political turmoil over the past few years, following an election that the United States and other members of the international community have said

The US is hosting the summit for the first time since 1994

was not credible.

The country has been beset by protests, hyperinflation, and large sections of the international community backing Juan Guaido as the interim President of the country, even while Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro remained in power.

All of this has come even as Guyana pursues its case before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), where it is seeking a final and binding judgement that the 1899 Arbitral Award which established the location of the land boundary between the then-British Guiana and Venezuela remains valid and binding, and that Guyana’s Essequibo region belongs to Guyana and not Venezuela, as is being claimed by the

Spanish-speaking country. Guyana moved to the World Court in 2018, after exhausting all means of negotiation with Venezuela.

Meanwhile, the US has had an embargo in place against Cuba, a long-time ally of Guyana, since 1962.

Relations between the US and Cuba had thawed under the Barack Obama Administration, before being tightened up again under his successor.

As of Tuesday, Cuban President Miguel DíazCanel and Mexican President Obrador have already confirmed their nonattendance at the gathering.

Venezuela and Nicaragua have also not been invited. It is expected that 23 Heads of Government will attend the gathering.

8

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Telling the world...

O

…like it is

ne thing about President Ali is - he tells it like it is!!

And that’s very refreshing in these days of doublespeak, evasions, and elisions - not to mention fake news!! So, on World Environment Day, with the theme “Only One Earth”, he declared unambiguously, “… we cannot address climate issues, unless we address the fundamental needs and wants of human beings.

“We cannot even speak about climate change if we have people who’re hungry; people who don’t have access to water; people who don’t have access to wages and earnings. Then they have no other alternative but to seek out every possible way to survive…We cannot have One World and One Planet where more than half the people are without water, without food, without food security. We cannot have One World and One Planet if we have such great inequality that exists in our world”!!

Now, your Eyewitness is sure the woke chatterati are gonna be coming out of the woodwork to accuse the President of being a “Neanderthal” who doesn’t care about the environment. And that’s the problem, ain’t it? Never mind that Neanderthals didn’t have any environmental problems!! Here, in Guyana, we have a situation where it was only through the Herculean efforts of the PPP for 23 years that we were pulled out of the degradation of being a “Highly Indebted Poor Country”. And yet our poverty level is still around 36%!! Meaning that more than one out of three Guyanese families can’t take care of their basic needs - like food, clothing and shelter!!

And we should leave them right where they are, just because of the environmental damage done by the rich countries of the world? Even as their poorest are living in conditions our middle class can only dream of!! And to make matters worse, their wealth was achieved by hiving off the cream of all the countries that are now in grinding poverty!! As Rodney pointed out, it was the Europeans (and Americans) who left us underdeveloped. Not just poor, but without the wherewithal to jump-start our development.

President Ali reminded the rich countries of their “commitments” at the 2015 COP 26 in Paris, when they promised US$150billion to poorer countries to build their resiliency to counter the effects of climate change. Like us on the Guyana coastland being washed away by rising oceans!

How much has been coughed up?? Zilch! Nada!! So, what happened to the Principle of Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR)?? This principle of international environmental law says that while all states are responsible for addressing global environmental destruction, they’re NOT EQUALLY RESPONSIBLE!!

So, will the chatterati now get behind Pres Ali?? Nah!!

Not in a million years! …about the Ukraine War Some commentators are kvetching that the Ukraine war’s already 100 days old. HELLO!!?! These European folks fought A HUNDRED-YEAR WAR from the 14th to the 15th century!! Now that’s holding a grudge, ain’t it?? But talking about the medieval wars, have you noticed that many of the tactics from that era are being used in Ukraine?? Like laying siege to cities!! Who woulda thought after George II (Bush!!) carpet-bombing Iraq anyone with that kinda firepower would have the patience to starve out the defenders!!

Anyhow, during medieval times, the invaders would catapult rocks and flaming rags to batter and burn buildings inside the city. The latter would retaliate in kind. If the invaders got too close, they’d pour boiling oil on their heads!! Now that’s been replaced by medium-range missiles by both sides, with the US and the Brits just replenishing Ukraine’s supplies. And for close-up encounters, there are always flamethrowers to heat up things!!

So, expect this to continue. The West will fight to the last Ukrainian!! …about cooperation Climate Change and the environment aren’t the only concerns right now. There’s food security aligned to the hunger Pres Ali spoke about.

But he didn’t just talk…he’s walked the walk with his Agri-initiative!!

The views expressed in this column are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Guyana Times’ editorial policy and stance

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

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

$760M in contracts inked for Joint Services projects

Home Affairs Minister Benn with representatives from the companies that will be executing works and senior Joint Services officials

N

ine contracts, valued in excess of $760 million, were on Tuesday signed for the facilitation of developmental projects under various entities of the Home Affairs Ministry.

Contractors in the presence of Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn signed contracts for the 2022 capital projects, spanning works for the Guyana Police Force, Guyana Prison Service and the Guyana Fire Service.

Representing the agencies were Deputy Commissioner Ravindradat Budhram, Director of Prisons Nicklon Elliot and Chief Fire Officer Gregory Wickham, respectively.

The works to be executed include four Command Operation Centres for Regions Two (PomeroonSupenaam), Five (Mahaica-

Berbice), Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) and 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice). These four contracts are pegged at $129.5 million.

For the Guyana Prison Service, the construction of the senior officers’ living quarters and a security fence at the Lusignan Prison will be executed to the tune of $96 million and $48 million, respectively.

Further, contracts for a new fire station at Wales, the procurement of 148 fire hydrants and five firefighting vehicles to the tune of $485 million were sealed.

The companies involved with these projects are NK Engineering Services; ACE Construction Service and Investment; Brick and Mortar Construction Service; Ele’s Trading and Hardware; Singh and Son Construction; Advanced Engineering; AYN

Construction; Compass Industrial Services; and ANGLOCO. Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn pointed out that last year’s projects are still being executed and are moving apace. The new contracts signed are the first of several signed for these agencies, and he used the platform to insist that they be completed effectively, with a safe working environment for workers.

“I want to encourage the successful contracting companies, who will be providing the work for the facilities and the assets being acquired. I have to say that we want our projects to be delivered on time and specification and on quality. We want our workers, the people working on these projects to be maintained and supported in a

safe manner.”

He added, “We don’t

want industrial accidents.

We want timely delivery.

We want quality delivery…

If I come and there is any person working with slippers and they don’t have gloves, eye protection and helmets, I will be upset.

I’m saying that for everybody. We have to get good for us. A safe worker is an efficient worker once he is well-trained and supervised.”

Establishing a fire station in Wales, according to Benn, will be beneficial in light of massive developments that will come with the intended gas-to-shore project earmarked for that

area. The new firefighting vehicles will be used to provide coverage not only in urban areas and on the coast but also to critical interior locations.

Contracting companies were also encouraged to facilitate apprentices on these projects, providing them with the skills to gain employment.

“There is scope in these contracts to bring in young people and train them up as apprentices…I would encourage that without impairing your overall efficiency and effectiveness,” the Home Affairs Minister told the operators.

10 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

File on Goed Fortuin fatal accident sent to DPP for advice

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ne week after 12-year-old Kayla Barnabus tragically lost her life after being struck by a vehicle attached to the Guyana Police Force, Deputy Commissioner of Operations, Ravindradat Budhram told media operatives that the file was prepared and sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions for advice.

“The investigation was done and we are presently receiving advice from

Deceased: 12-year-old Kayla Barnabus

the DPP and Police Legal Advisor,” he indicated.

It was reported that on the day in question, a vehicle had stopped for the young lady to use the pedestrian crossing, but the vehicle attached to the GPF bearing registration number GXX 6575, driven by a Police Corporal, reportedly overtook the stationary vehicle and struck the pupil.

From reports received, the vehicle was allegedly

speeding at the time.

The Police stated that the child ran from east to west across the road in the path of the pick-up.

They added that the driver swerved to avoid a collision, but the front of the vehicle collided with the schoolgirl.

She sustained injuries about her body and was picked up in an unconscious state and taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH), where

she was pronounced dead on arrival. The driver of the vehicle was placed under close arrest.

A breathalyser test was administered to the driver, but there were no traces of alcohol in his system.

The Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage of the accident.

Last week, acting Deputy Police Commissioner (Administration) Calvin Brutus, along with other senior Police officials visit-

ed the grieving family.

Brutus, who met with the child’s parents – Delmon and Somatee Barnabus – at their School Street, Goed Fortuin home, expressed his sympathy for the tragedy, on behalf of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and himself.

Brutus assured the grieving parents that a thorough and impartial investigation would be conducted into the unfortunate accident.

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Norton proposes appointment of substantive Chancellor, CJ to President Ali – says judicial officers have demonstrated impartiality through their rulings over the years – dispatches letter to Govt to this effect Ramjattan, on the suitability of the two Justices.

“I have no intention of meeting with them. I don’t think it’s the correct thing to do, since they are expected to operate as independent arbiters on matters involving Government, political parties, etcetera. As it relates to their abilities, we have seen them over the years. We know their qualifications. We know what recommends them.”

The letter sent on behalf of the Opposition Leader to Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira

O

pposition Leader Aubrey Norton has dispatched a letter to the Government indicating his proposal for current acting Chancellor, Yonnette Cummings-Edwards and acting Chief Justice Roxane George to be confirmed in their substantive posts.

During a press conference on Tuesday, the Opposition Leader expressed his confidence in the two judicial officers being confirmed. To this end, he has had a letter sent to Minister of Governance and Parliamentary Affairs, Gail Teixeira, indicating his proposal.

“This morning, Mr Roysdale Forde, SC, and Member of Parliament, representative of the Leader of the Opposition, informed Ms Gail Teixeira, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, that in keeping with Article 127 (1) of the Constitution, the Leader of

the Opposition is in agreement that Justice Yonnette Cummings-Edwards and Justice Roxane GeorgeWiltshire, be appointed Chancellor and Chief Justice.”

“In this regard, the Leader of the Opposition has fulfilled his constitutional responsibility, since all that was needed is agreement. And I have agreed,” the Opposition Leader further outlined during his press conference.

Asked if he has any intentions of meeting the acting Chancellor and Chief Justice, Norton made it clear he has no such intention.

According to Norton, however, the two judicial officers are qualified and moreover, have demonstrated their impartiality through their rulings over the years.

He explained that he even has the consensus of AFC Leader Khemraj

CJ (ag) Roxane George (left) and Chancellor (ag) Yonnette Cummings-Edwards

“They have ruled on many matters. And so, in my opinion, and the opinion of the APNU/AFC, and I have spoken to Khemraj Ramjattan. We accept that they are capable. They have the requisite skills… now remember this is one of the legislations that does not speak to meaningful consultation. It speaks to agreement… I have indicated that I agree,” Norton said.

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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

14 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8,, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

PM, Venezuelan Ambassador discuss MV Sabanto facilitating regular round trips to enhancing bilateral relations

accommodate businesses

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Retired) Mark Phillips and Venezuela’s Ambassador to Guyana, Carlos Amador Perez Silva at the meeting on Tuesday

P

rime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips and Venezuela’s Ambassador to Guyana, His Excellency Carlos Amador Perez Silva on Tuesday discussed ways of enhancing bilateral relations between the neighbouring countries.

Prime Minister Phillips indicated that Guyana is ready to improve relations, within the construct of respect for Guyana’s sovereignty.

This is particularly significant since Guyana took Venezuela before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over the border controversy between the two countries.

In 2015, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro had withdrawn the country’s Ambassador to Guyana after Exxon found oil in Guyana’s wa-

ters. Eventually, this decision was reversed.

Venezuela claims Essequibo as its own, despite the 1899 arbitral award confirming Guyana’s sovereignty, which is accepted by the international community. Matters escalated in 2021, when Maduro issued a presidential decree reinforcing his country’s illegal claim to Guyana’s Essequibo region.

In the wake of Maduro’s decree, there was condemnation from all corners including from President Ali, then Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon and even the United States.

Nevertheless, the Prime Minister assured the Ambassador that Guyana would honour its obligation under international humanitarian laws, concerning refugees

to the country, and stated that Guyana would continue to provide healthcare, food, and shelter and look to integrate children into the education system.

Ambassador Silva said that the courtesy visit was “very important” to enhance relations between the two countries. “The intention of the two Governments is to advance communication and cooperation as much as we can.”

Discussions also centred on bilateral security cooperation, especially in relation to transnational crimes and criminal networks that pose threats to the security of both countries.

The officials also spoke about economic development between the private sectors of the two countries.

Ambassador Silva was accredited in April of 2022.

The MV Sabanto

W

ith the MV Kanawan, which plies the Parika to Supenaam route grounded for repairs, the MV Sabanto continues to make as many round trips as possible, to accommodate travel and eliminate any form of congestion at either port.

This was announced by the Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) on Monday. In a release to the media, the department reminded citizens that the MV Sabanto is the lone vessel servicing the route daily and has transported over 3500 passengers and 1029 vehicles since coming into operation on June 1.

T&HD has in place its usual scheduled first departure from Supenaam to Parika at 05:00h and a final scheduled daily departure time from Parika to Supenaam at approximately 19:0019:30h.

However, throughout the day, the

vessel operates on a ‘Touch and Go’ basis depending on the traffic and tide.

In the last several days, the vessel has made more than its usual number of trips to accommodate persons and vehicles needing to cross with dry goods, produce or materials.

Timing has also varied, except for the 05:00h schedule, the MV Sabanto has worked beyond its usual daily operating schedule; twice in the past few days it has departed Parika after 21:00h and on another occasion after midnight, to ensure persons and businesses were not greatly affected by the modified operations.

The increased round trips are also aimed at alleviating any traffic congestion at the Parika and Supenaam Stellings. T&HD wishes to thank members of the public for their patience and again appeals for continued understanding of the situation.

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Active COVID cases climb to 949 after 128 new infections

C

limbing coronavirus positives is the trend in Guyana’s current spike in the pandemic, with active cases growing close to 1000.

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony on Tuesday revealed that active COVID cases in Guyana have peaked at 949 after 128 new infections were detected within a 24-hour period. The total number of confirmed cases is now at 65,422 while the death toll remains at 1238.

However, new statistics showed that 29 patients are hospitalised – 17 of whom are being monitored at the Infectious Diseases Hospital.

There are two patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 27 in institutional isolation, 920 in home isolation and 11 in institutional quarantine.

A regional breakdown of active infections reflects nine in Region One (BarimaWaini); 66 in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam); 96 in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara); 524 in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica); 50 in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice); 147 in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne); 18 in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni); 17 in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and 22 in Region 10 (Upper

GUYANA COVID-19 DASHBOARD JUNE 7, 2022 UPDATE

NUMBER OF NEW CASES

128

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL ISOLATION

27

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN HOME ISOLATION

920

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN COVID-19 ICU

2

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL QUARANTINE

11

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (FEMALES)

35,343

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (MALES)

30,079

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES IN GUYANA SINCE 2020

65,422

NUMBER OF RECOVERED CASES

63,235

REGION 1

2529

REGION 2

2627

REGION 3

8251

REGION 4

32,537

REGION 5

2452

REGION 6

6106

REGION 7

2445

REGION 8

886

REGION 9

4059

REGION 10

3528

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

TOTAL 1st DOSE VACCINATED

442,395

FULLY IMMUNISED

342,021

TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES SINCE MARCH 2020

1238

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.

Demerara-Berbice).

“A lot of this might be an underestimate because people who have done home testing, if they’re positive and haven’t reported it, then we wouldn’t

be able to capture that in our statistics,” Dr Anthony commented on the active numbers.

With the Ministry aiming to start immunisation of the

five to 11 age group this weekend, there are a few requirements, looking at the child’s medical history, allergies and other factors. Standard questions will be ventilated with the parent or guardian before the vaccine is administered. A consent form will have to be signed as well.

“It’s not very complicated. I think it is there for us to understand the child’s health status and once we get that information, then we’ll be able to make a better decision on behalf of the child…In some cases, there are children who would have a depressed immune system. It’s not that they wouldn’t be able to get it. It’s just that we’ll have to review a little bit more thoroughly before administering it,” he assured.

Adult vaccination numbers reflect 442,590 first doses being administered along with 342,250 second doses.

This is 86.3 per cent and 66.7 per cent, respectively. For persons aged 12 to 17, complete immunisation coverage is 25,469 or 34.9 per cent.

Only 66,081 booster doses have been administered.

According to the Health Minister, the response to the vaccines within the adolescent category varies across regions. While the adolescent uptake lags behind generally, Region Nine has surpassed the 100 per cent first dose uptake with 89.9 per cent second dose coverage.

This is followed by Region One with 65.9 per cent for first doses and 40.4 per cent for second doses. Region Eight has a 64.7 per cent first dose coverage and 57 per cent second dose. The statistics wind down with Regions Six, Three, Five, Four, Two and Seven.

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.

Global figures show that almost 530 million people have tested positive for the virus and 6.2 million have died.

In the Americas, more than 157 million confirmed cases have been reported with over 2.7 million deaths.

16 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Ramsammy’s Ruminations

Agri-Investment Forum and Expo 2022

We are in good hands – skyCASA Fresh and Arapaima high confidence in our country Logistics engage farmers to by citizens and investors increase export of local produce I C ASA Fresh and Arapaima Logistics were delighted to be part of the recently concluded Agri-Investment Forum and Exhibition at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.

CASA Fresh, the marketing arm of Arapaima Logistics, conducts research to find regional and international markets for local farm-fresh produce.

It also provides an online platform to not only market these produce, but also allows for convenient purchase and ordering of goods.

The team’s Agriculture Specialist, Ramsingh Taijbally, has been building relationships with farmers in Pomeroon, Crabwood Creek, and the LindenSoesdyke Highway to increase the volume of local produce exported to the US (United States) and other extra-regional markets.

These farm visits are also conducted to understand farmers’ production capacity and assist with further developing quality produce to meet the international market demands.

President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali; Prime Minister of Belize, John Briceño; the CASA Fresh and Arapaima team and Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley pose for a photo at the Arapaima booth

The team highlighted its services alongside hundreds of other businesses and Government agencies at the event. However, one of the significant concerns raised by protentional investors during the expo was the movement of fruits and vegetables to other parts of the world.

Arapaima and CASA

Fresh intend to play a vital role in addressing this issue.

With a combined 40 years of experience, the team offers a logistical international supply chain network to connect the local farm-fresh fruits and vegetables to the global market.

Several persons outside of Guyana and Trinidad

and Tobago signalled their interest to the CASA fresh team to ship produce from Guyana, not only to the US and the Caricom regions but worldwide.

Only two months ago, Arapaima Logistics sent over 40,000 dry coconuts from Pomeroon farmers to buyers in Miami, Florida. Though it started with a single commodity, shortly, the team will be exporting eddoes, sweet potato, plantains, yams, ginger, and other commodities.

This timely event created many opportunities for farmers, agro-processors, and other businesses in the agriculture value chain.

The Agri-Investment Forum and Expo was crucial for unlocking the potential for reducing the Caricom’s almost US$6 billion food import bill.

Several Memoranda of Understanding were signed between the Government of Guyana and other Caricom members, which will pay close attention to increased food production, logistics and transport improvements, and farmlands provision. These measures are expected to reduce the Region’s food import bill and achieve food security across the region, and Arapaima Logistics is pleased with the move by the region to address these issues.

Arapaima Logistics Incorporated (ALI) was formed as a critical resource to provide logistics and supply chain solutions locally, regionally, and internationally. Arapaima Logistics services include air and ocean freight forwarding, customs brokerage, shore base management, personal logistics and immigration services, marine agency services, third-party procurement services, charters, medical evacuation, aircraft ground handling, aviation security, airline catering, accommodations, and tours.

f there is one thing that the vast majority of Guyanese agree on, it is that Guyana is in good hands. The vast majority of citizens agree that Guyana is on the right track, going in the right direction. Actually, the whole world today agrees with the citizens of Guyana. More importantly, the facts speak for themselves. When the International Monetary Fund (IMF) reports to our citizens and to the world that the rate of defaulting loans in the local banking system significantly dropped in 2021 to about 6% from almost 11% in 2020, it was providing tangible proof that Guyana is moving upwards, recovering from where we were in August 2020.

The defaulting loan rate is one of the indicators whether a country is doing good or not. At about 6% defaulting loans in Guyana, our country, among the lowest bank loan defaulting rates in the region, ranks among the best in the region. At the same time as more people are paying back their loans, Private Sector Dr Leslie Ramsammy credit has expanded by 10.4%, indicating growing confidence in the country.

The IMF lauded Guyana for its strong recovery in 2021, even with the debilitating impact of COVID-19 and flood conditions due to the climate change-driven inclement weather in 2020 and 2021.

In spite of these challenges, Guyana had the strongest economic performance in the Region of the Americas, and is among the top performers in the world. Most countries are still trying to stabilise their economies from the devastation of COVID-19, but Guyana has been able to move rapidly forward. While the IMF attributed Guyana’s strong performance in part to the new OIL industry, the IMF also mentioned the strong policy framework. This includes Government’s projects to cut electricity charges, improving transport infrastructure, diversifying the economy, improving social services, and the LCDS. Last week, the President was among fisherfolk. About 5,000 fisherfolk supply fish to vendors and exporters for shipping fish products overseas. Altogether, between 30,000 and 40,000 persons depend on the fishing industry for their livelihood. For some time now, fishermen have had to invest more money and spend more time at sea to maintain the same amount of catch.

This has nothing to do with EXXON. Ministers of Agriculture Satyadeow Sawh, Robert Persaud and I had to deal with this challenge long before EXXON. Fisherfolk across the world have been dealing with declining catch for a couple of decades now.

Climate change is having its own impact on the fishing industry.

Whatever the reasons for diminishing production of ocean fish, fisherfolk are having a horrendous time maintaining their income.

President Ali heard their pleas. The President announced a cash grant of $150,000 per person for all fisherfolk. This is not a solution; it is an assistance for immediate relief. It is another example of a Government responding to the people’s needs.

Even as President Ali was announcing help for fisherfolk, he also was announcing, this very week, a cash grant assistance programme for children with disabilities: $100,000 per child annually; automatic qualification for public assistance, transportation and a modern business center to support businesses for disabled persons.

At the same time, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo was in Region 6, implementing a $325M fertiliser subsidy for farmers in Region 6, part of a $1B fertiliser support programme. He also organised a group to implement a programme for farmers to get access to 3,000 acres of farm land, launched part-time jobs’ initiative for 3,000 persons, $100M grant for small businesses, and the soon-tostart expansion of the Corentyne Highway at a cost of over $4B. Just before going to Region 6, the Vice President engaged miners, and subsidies and tax abatement programmes amounting to almost $3B were announced. The miners, often persons who usually vote for the PNC, across the board lauded the Government. This is a Government of the people, responsive to the people’s needs.

For most people, Sunday is a day of rest, enjoying time with family and friends. But just scan the news and social media for a few minutes, you will see the President and Vice-President out and about among the people. So, too, are Ministers. People flock everywhere in every region in every part of the country to see and interact with their President, Vice-President, Prime Minister and other Government Ministers. President Ali has elevated what it means to be a People’s President, or a People’s Government.

He leads clean-up campaigns, plays cricket with children, goes to faith organisations, attend NGOs events; he is literally everywhere. The Government is out in the community, addressing concerns, solving problems, taking care of citizens. The President and the Vice President are not just popular everywhere in Guyana, they have become political rock stars at home and abroad. All the while, not only busy being among the people, but taking care of the country’s business.

Far from the cacophony emanating from the naysayers, who find something wrong with everything happening in our country, the citizens and investors and the whole world are excited about where Guyana is going, and what is happening. Our country is transforming in front of our eyes at a dizzying pace. The naysayers are desperate, trying to find anything to distract our people. But to their chagrin, we are in good hands.

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Regions 8 & 9 road link to alleviate high Region 3 records 17% increase in armed transportation cost when completed – contracts signed for road maintenance projects in several villages

M

inister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill recently stated that the construction of a hinterland road link that connects Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni) is underway and when completed will alleviate the high cost of transportation.

The Minister made this announcement during a road maintenance contract signing in Kato, Region Eight.

“Apart from the connectivity among the villages, your Government is continuing to ensure the connection between Regions 9 and Region 8.” He added that once the road link between the two regions is completed, it will alleviate transportation woes, thus creating social and economic benefits.

“Once trucks can traverse the road, the cost of supplies, building materials, and food “will go down” since it will cut the cost of flying materials in and out of the regions,” the Minister stated.

“So that those of you who want to get to Region 9 and then get to Brazil and make your vacation…you must be able to get that connectivity. And if when we get that road completed and trucks can come through for us to buy and get down from all the way from Monkey

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill

Mountain. If trucks can come through that road, the cost of supplies, building materials, food, everything will go down because you don’t have to fly it in. It will be able to come through by the way of trucks. So, that’s what we’re working on.”

The 72-mile hinterland road link starts at Meritizero North, Rupununi in Region Nine, and will connect Region Eight at Monkey Mountain.

The construction of the road link which began more than 10 years ago will cost $600 million. But after the APNU/AFC took office, that project was allegedly halted.

Meanwhile, during the Minister’s visit, a number of contracts, totalling $290 million to improve transpor-

tation networks in Region Eight were signed. The road maintenance project will benefit some 15,000 residents from 28 villages in the region.

Under the agreements signed, a total of 917 kilometres of road maintenance, including filling of laterite, and repairs to 31 timber bridges will be completed over a six-month period.

Edghill reiterated the Government’s commitment to supporting the development of local village economies through the creation of job opportunities. Under the contracts signed, local contractors and workers from Region 8 are expected to execute all works outlined.

“Our development agenda is not just to devel-

op Georgetown and make it bright and put up lights and nice fancy buildings. So, when you come to town you look and say Georgetown looking nice. Our development agenda is that you must be in Kato or in Itabac or in Kanapang or in Tuschen or wherever you must be able to look at your community and say my community looking nice as well,” he said.

Contracts were signed by the Monkey Mountain, Bamboo Creek, Paramakatoi, and Kato Village Councils. Red Creek, Karisparu, Taruka, Yawong, Maiwak CDC, Arasawa, along with 19 other villages also signed contracts.

Lauding the Government’s initiative, Toshao Candace Evans of Karisparu said she is grateful for the upgrade, adding that her community will enjoy easier access to other communities once the project is completed.

“Currently our airstrip is shut down and we don’t have any access to Mahdia or elsewhere so I am very grateful for this contract because once we fix the road, we will get access to Paramakatoi and people would be able to buy their ration from there and also for the patients we would transport them to Paramakatoi from Karisparu at this moment,” she said.

robberies – Commander

R

egion Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) has recorded a 17 per cent increase in armed robberies, according to the Divisional Commander, Mahendra Siwnarine.

“For the latter part of last month, we would have seen a slight increase in robbery under arms, we had a 17 per cent increase in terms of robbery under arms…but the positive thing from that is that all those robberies were solved, persons were arrested and are currently before the court in all instances,” the Commander noted.

He was at the time speaking during a recent programme produced by the Guyana Police Force (GPF).

While he did not divulge any more information on this matter, the Commander noted that in order to improve on policing in the division, he has taken advice some citizens.

It was only two months ago that Siwnarine assumed the post of Commander for Region Three.

“Following those feedback [from citizens], we would have made some adjustment in terms of rotating ranks among the station. The idea behind for ranks to not get too familiar at one location but to have a constant rotation so they can always be interactive with members of the public,” he explained.

For areas like Bonasika, which is the most remote outpost, according to the Commander, ranks are rotated every six weeks.

Divisional Commander Mahendra Siwnarine

Commander Siwnarine also noted that the they will continue to work with members of the public in order to continue improving the work of the GPF. “Based on the feedback that we’re getting from members of the public, indeed the support is there, but there is huge room for improvement in our performance,” he explained.

As such, the Commander is continuing to implement community policing groups, youth groups, and scout groups in all areas of the division.

“Currently, other than Parfaite (La Parfaite Harmonie) we have youth groups on both Leguan, Wakenaam, both on the West Coast and West Bank, and in addition to the youth groups, we’ve had new members showing interest joining the scout from those youth groups. It’s a continuous process and persons keep coming forward and showing their interest,” he added.

Schools will close for July-August break – Min Manickchand Norton proposes...

FROM PAGE 11

S

chools across Guyana will close during the July-August holiday season and will open in September as normal, according to Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand.

This comes after many discussions were had between the Ministry and teachers over the possibility of schools being opened during the July-August holiday season to help educators recoup some of the learning loss recorded during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Back in May, Manickchand had entertained the possibility of schools across Guyana remaining open to ease learning loss recorded by the Ministry during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Now, following a consensus among teachers, the majority were not in favour of schools remaining open during the July-August break since they were engaged in schoolroom activities during the pandemic.

Minister Manickchand noted that the Ministry was exploring the possibility of extending the current school year to recover the learning loss incurred by the pandemic, but the Ministry and its stakeholders have decided to have the schools closed as usual.

“We believe that it is the best at this point, to have everyone close for the July-August holidays, as usual, return to school in September, refreshed, teachers feel particularly tired because while it is true that we were home they were still working and so they feel like they need the break,” the Minister said.

Manickchand noted that there are

Education Minister Priya Manickchand

some teachers who have voiced their opinions on schools remaining open.

“While there are some teachers who are telling us very strongly that we need to do this [keep schools open] because we need to recapture the time, to get back some time. There are enough teachers telling us that they don’t want to do it and we respect that, and we’re going to try to make sure that we comply with and do what is best for all the stakeholders involved, particularly the students and the teachers,” she explained.

The Minister also indicated that some teachers have expressed their willingness to work with students during the holiday season, especially those preparing for major examinations.

“What we will do in an organised way that we are going to announce shortly is publish on the learning channel and on our new radio station EDUU, we’re going to publish in an organised way, courses, studies in different areas, so if parents want their children to get reinforcement, or what we call in Guyana, lessons, for free they can tune into the channel at different points,” Minister Manickchand noted.

While schools were closed, the Ministry embarked on a number of initiatives to ensure that students remained engaged. However, with disparities in the system, the outcome was far from what would have been achieved by face-to-face learning.

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

The Education Ministry had printed thousands of worksheets for each grade that corresponded with the curriculum and what each child should have been learning if they were in the classroom. The Guyana Learning Channel undertook the production of recorded lessons done by local teachers on the various topics outlined in the curriculum.

In April, the Education Ministry announced that schools would reopen fully - almost two years after they were closed completely due to the pandemic.

The Opposition Leader noted that the ball is now in the President’s court when it comes to confirming acting Chancellor, Yonnette Cummings-Edwards and acting Chief Justice Roxane George.

Article 127 (1) of the Constitution of Guyana states: “The Chancellor and the Chief Justice shall each be appointed by the President, acting after obtaining the agreement of the Leader of the Opposition.”

President Dr Irfaan Ali has already said that he has no issue appointing a Chancellor and Chief Justice.

However, he had indicated that he would consult with the Opposition Leader on the issue after the service commissions are appointed.

President Ali had said that consultations are currently ongoing for the service commissions, after which he would engage the Opposition Leader on the judicial appointments.

“We have no issues appointing (the Chancellor and Chief Justice), but when the right time comes, we will have the consultations on the Chancellor and the Chief Justice. The consultation (with the Opposition Leader so

far) was on the Commissions,” the President has said. “The President asked for consultations on those commissions (specifically),” the Head of State told reporters at State House last week.

On May 13, President Ali and Opposition Leader Norton met for the first time to consult on the appointments of the various service commissions, including the Judicial Service Commission, Police Service Commission, Teaching Service Commission and the Integrity Commission.

At the time, the two leaders had agreed to consult, in keeping with the Constitution, which stipulates that meaningful consultation be held on the appointments of these Service Commissions.

In fact, Norton had requested additional information on the nominees, and this was provided to him.

However, when the Head of State invited the Opposition Leader last week Monday for a second meeting, Norton failed to show, citing that he was busy. As a result, President Ali went ahead and appointed the Police Service Commission and the Integrity Commission the following day, when the members were sworn-in.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022

Regional

6 dead in armed attack on Mexican Foreign Minister accuses US of inconsistency in Mexican high school students Americas Summit invitations G unmen killed five high school students and an adult in a street shooting in central Mexico, local authorities said on Tuesday.

According to Police, shooters opened fire on a group of students on Monday night, killing three males and two females aged between 16 and 18, as well as a 65-year-old woman who was in the same area.

“Unfortunately, we can say that a few hours ago in the Barron community six people lost their lives in an

M

exican Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard on Tuesday accused the United States of double standards by refusing to invite Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua to the US-hosted Summit of the Americas, while engaging with non-democratic Governments in Southeast Asia.

“The so-called democratic clause is not applied equally in all cases, but only in some, when it is convenient,” Ebrard wrote in a column published in Mexican newspaper Excelsior, pointing to Washington’s relations with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and forming the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework in May. Ebrard called the US decision “inconsistent, if not contradictory.” Among ASEAN’s members are Myanmar, ruled by a military junta, and one-party

Mexican Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard speaks about the Summit of the Americas during a news conference, in Mexico City, Mexico, June 7, 2022 (Reuters/Luis Cortes)

Communist-ruled Vietnam.

The United States chose not to invite the leftist leaders of Venezuela, Nicaragua and Communist-ruled Cuba to this week’s Americas gathering in Los Angeles, citing concerns of a lack of democracy in their countries, a senior US official said.

Mexican President

Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador withdrew because the United States said that not all countries in the Americas would be invited.

US President Joe Biden aims to address regional migration and economic challenges at the summit. Lopez Obrador said he would meet Biden next month instead.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Tobagonian on murder charge gets bail in island first

A

High Court Judge has granted the first bail application to a Tobagonian charged with murder.

On Tuesday, Justice Geoffrey Henderson granted bail to Hubert Guy, 59, of Falcon Drive, Sou Sou Lands, Tobago, in the sum of TT$1 million with surety.

As part of the conditions for bail, Guy has been ordered not to visit Jiggers Hill, Mason Hall, where the alleged murder of his nephew took place and to have no contact with any of the State’s witnesses in the case.

Guy is before the court charged with the murder of his 18-year-old nephew, Jamal Sebro, on June 26, 2021.

It is alleged that Sebro was fatally chopped while going to his mother’s assistance during an altercation with a relative.

The preliminary inquiry into Sebro’s murder is yet to start and Guy’s Attorney, Azim Walters, made the bail application which was assigned to Henderson two weeks ago, after it went before several masters of the High Court’s criminal division.

Walters argued that his client had no previous convictions or pending matters and there was an element of provocation in the prosecution’s case against his client.

In grantinAg bail, Henderson took into account Guy’s good character and his age.

The State was represented by Prosecutor Anju Bhola.

This was the third successful bail application and the first in Tobago.

Last month, a Diego Martin man was granted bail by Justice Carla BrownAntoine, and in March, a Belmont man became the first person to get bail on a murder charge, granted by a master of the criminal division.

In February, the Court of Appeal paved the way for anyone charged with murder to apply for bail for the first time in over a century.

The State’s appeal of that decision comes up for hearing in the Privy Council today and Thursday. (Excerpt from Trinidad Newsday)

Jamaica: Thieves steal $8M from Western Union in St Mary

T

hieves made off with almost $8 million in Jamaican and foreign currencies after breaking into a Western Union outlet in Oracabessa, St Mary on Tuesday morning.

The culprits reportedly spray-painted the CCTV cameras and pried open the grille to the outlet before making off with a vault containing the cash, Police said.

The stolen money consisted of J$6,422,146; US$5935; CA$700; 1720 Pounds Sterling and 670 euros.

Superintendent Bobette Morgan-Simpson, the com-

manding officer for the St Mary Police, said the robbers were fully masked.

“It was well-planned and well-executed, so we have no idea who these persons are,” Morgan Simpson told Observer Online.

The Police reported that Monday evening, the outlet supervisor checked the day’s transactions, placed the money in a vault, locked it and the business place, and went home.

About 03:28h, the Hawkeye Security response team received an alert from Western Union, went to the location and observed that

the grilles to the building were pried.

The Police were summoned, and it was observed that the robbers had spray-painted the CCTV cameras on the building with black paint.

The Police discovered that the robbers pried open the grilles that led to the upstairs of the building where the Western Union is located, and also the grille at the entrance of the outlet.

The robbers then entered, ransacked the outlet, and stole the vault containing the cash. (Jamaica Observer)

armed attack,” said Cesar Prieto, Mayor of the city in Guanajuato state.

The mass shooting happened just two weeks after eight women and three men were killed in an apparent gangland revenge attack on two bars and a hotel in Celaya, another city in Guanajuato.

Located in Mexico’s prosperous industrial centre and home to a refinery and a major pipeline, Guanajuato has become one of the most violent states in Mexico owing to a dispute

between the Santa Rosa de Lima and Jalisco New Generation cartels.

The gangs fight for control of trafficking routes for drugs and stolen fuel.

Since December 2006, when the Government launched a controversial military anti-drug operation, Mexico has recorded more than 340,000 murders, according to official figures.

Authorities have blamed most of the killings on organised crime. (Excerpt from AFP)

Migrant caravan heads to US as key summit begins

Members of the migrant caravan as they began their trek north on Tuesday

T

housands of migrants are headed to the USMexican border in a caravan timed to coincide with a meeting of Western Hemisphere leaders in Los Angeles.

Some 6000 people, including many from Venezuela and Central America, have begun walking from the southern tip of Mexico north as part of a caravan.

Migration is among the top issues on the agenda at

the Summit of the Americas.

The caravan may be one of the largest in recent years.

On Monday, the group began its 2000-kilometre (1270-mile) journey to the US from the Mexican city of Tapachula, near the country’s border with Guatemala. It is unclear when they will arrive at the northern frontier.

The group’s organisers say it is made up of people who are fleeing instabili-

ty, violence and poverty in their home countries.

Robinson Reyes, 35, a Colombian migrant, said he was travelling north after waiting in vain in Mexico for a month for a humanitarian visa.

“We want a future for our family,” he told Reuters.

“We are not violent. We just want a better future.”

Reyes added that the caravan timed its departure to coincide with the Summit of the Americas in Los Angeles, where regional leaders are expected to announce new plans to address mass migration from Latin America.

“That’s why we went out today,” he said. “God willing, they can talk and resolve this”.

Efforts to address migration at the summit are likely to be complicated by geopolitical tensions, however.

(BBC News)

Brazilian Police open criminal probe amid search for British Journalist

B

razilian Police have opened a criminal probe and interviewed at least four witnesses believed to be among the last to have seen a British Journalist and an Indigenous expert who went missing in a remote and lawless part of the Amazon jungle on Sunday.

Guilherme Torres, the head of the interior department of Amazonas state’s civil Police, told Reuters in an interview that Police had opened a criminal investigation and interviewed four witnesses while also seeking to locate the Journalist, freelancer Dom Phillips, and his companion Bruno Pereira, a former senior official with federal Indigenous agency Funai.

Torres said Pereira had

British Journalist Dom Phillips

recently received a threatening letter from a local fisherman who Police were trying to locate.

He said his colleagues had interviewed two fishermen as witnesses on Monday, with two more

quizzed on Tuesday. The first two witnesses had not provided any useful information, and Torres had no details as yet about the second two interviews.

“We are indeed working with the hypothesis that a crime might have occurred, but there is another, much larger possibility, that they’re lost,” Torres said. “Now, our priority is to find them alive, especially in these first hours. In parallel, a criminal probe has been opened to see if there was some crime committed.”

Brazil’s navy and army both dispatched search teams in boats and helicopters to the area, with support from federal and state Police. (Excerpt from Reuters)

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022

19

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS Oil settles up 1% on tight supply, US crude at 13-week high

O

il prices gained about 1 per cent on Tuesday, with US crude settling at a 13-week high on supply concerns, including no nuclear deal with Iran, and prospects for demand growth in China, which is relaxing lockdowns to control the pandemic.

Looking ahead, analysts polled by Reuters forecast US crude inventories fell last week. A drop in crude stockpiles could further support prices.

Robert Yawger, executive director of energy futures at Mizuho, said "several numbers" in the EIA report are "within striking distance of historical lows," including possibly crude storage for the country, crude storage at Cushing, Oklahoma and crude storage in Strategic Petroleum Reserve.

Brent futures gained US$1.06, or 0.9 per cent, to settle at US$120.57 a barrel, its highest since May 31. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude gained 91 cents, or 0.8 per cent, to US$119.41, its highest settlement since March 8 which matched an August 2008 settlement high.

The United States said Iran's demands on sanctions-lifting were preventing progress on revival of the 2015 nuclear deal.

Analysts have said a deal could add 1 million barrels per day of world oil supply.

The US EIA projected US crude production and petroleum demand will both rise in 2022.

Prices also drew support from expectations demand would recover in China, where the capital Beijing and commercial hub Shanghai have been returning to normal after two months of lockdowns.

Also, analysts doubted global oil supplies would rise much following last week's OPEC+ decision to bring forward production increases.

The quota increase from OPEC+, the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and allied producers including Russia, is lower than the loss of Russian crude resulting from Western sanctions, analysts said, adding that it also fails to address a shortage in oil products.

Trafigura's CEO said oil prices could soon hit US$150 a barrel and go higher this year, with demand destruction likely by the end of the year.

Goldman Sachs increased its Brent oil price forecasts by US$10 to US$135 a barrel for the period between the second half of 2022 and the first half of next year, citing an unresolved structural supply deficit.

In other supply concerns, the Sharara oilfield in Libya was halted again late on Monday and in Norway, more than one in 10 offshore oil and gas workers plan strike action from Sunday if state-brokered wage mediation fails. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Food shortages are next global health crisis – expert

G

rowing food shortages may represent the same health threat to the world as the COVID-19 pandemic, a leading global health figure has warned.

Rising food and energy prices, in part sparked by the war in Ukraine, could kill millions both directly and indirectly, Peter Sands, the executive director of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, told Reuters in an interview on Tuesday.

"Food shortages work in two ways. One is you have the tragedy of people actually starving to death. But second is you have the fact that often much larger numbers of people are poorly nourished, and that makes them more vulnerable to existing diseases," he said.

He said efforts to improve pandemic preparedness should not make the "classic" mistake of concerning

themselves only with crises that resemble the most recent threat the world has faced.

"It's not as well-defined as some brand new pathogen appearing with distinctive new symptoms. But it could well be just as deadly," he said.

The World Health Organisation estimates that 15 million people may have died as a result of COVID-19.

Sands said investment was needed to strengthen health systems to help prepare for the repercussions of food shortages, which is part of the Global Fund's remit.

The Geneva, Switzerlandbased fund is aiming to raise US$18 billion to boost health systems, fight the three core diseases in its title, and reverse setbacks caused by the pandemic. It has raised just over a third of its target for 2024-2026. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Ukraine's Zelenskiy says it will fight for all territory amid fierce battle in east

U

kraine will fight to recover all its territory occupied by Russian forces, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Tuesday, as his troops struggled to hold their ground in bloody street-to-street fighting in the city of Sievierodonetsk.

"We have already lost too many people to simply cede our territory," Zelenskiy said by video link at an event hosted by Britain's Financial Times newspaper. "We have to achieve a full deoccupation of our entire territory."

Zelenskiy's remarks responded forcefully to suggestions that Ukraine must cede territory to Russia to end the war, now in its fourth month.

French President Emmanuel Macron said in a recent interview it was

Ukrainian service members fire a shell from a M777 Howitzer near a frontline, as Russia's attack on Ukraine continues, in Donetsk Region, Ukraine, June 6, 2022

important not to "humiliate" Moscow, comments interpreted in Ukraine as implying it must accept some Russian demands.

Asked about Macron's comments, Zelenskiy said: "We are not going to humiliate anyone, we are going to respond in kind."

As he spoke, Ukrainian troops in the ruins of Sievierodonetsk were trying to cling to gains Kyiv said its forces had made in a surprise counter-offensive that shifted momentum there last week.

The governor of the Luhansk region, Serhiy Gaidai, said the defenders were finding it hard to repel Russian attacks in the centre of Sievierodonetsk, a small industrial city in the east.

"The Russians are trying with all their might to capture Sievierodonetsk and cut off the highway from Lysychansk to Bakhmut," he said in an online post. "In the regional centre it is hard to stave off the attacks, but the occupiers do not control the town." (Excerpt from Reuters)

EU clinches world's 1st deal on single mobile charging port

E

uropean Union member states and legislators have agreed to mandate a single mobile charging port for mobile phones, tablets and cameras in a blow to technology giant Apple.

Tuesday’s agreement, a world first, means that from

late 2024 most portable devices will be required to have a USB Type-C charging port.

It will not apply to products released before the new rules come into force.

The EU believes a standard cable for all devices will substantially cut back on thousands of tonnes of electronic

Sri Lanka’s economic crisis threatens its dollar-earning IT firms

Apart from a leading revenue earner, Sri Lanka's IT sector was one of the first to publicly support the wave of protests held against the Rajapaksa Government [Dinuka Liyanawatte/Reuters]

T

here have been days when cybersecurity professional Asela Waidyalankara and his colleagues have sat in hotel lobbies to complete projects during power outages. Other days, they have run around Colombo looking for fuel for generators so they could work from home.

Before the pandemic, Sri Lanka’s IT industry employed more than 120,000 people and was the fifth-largest export earner for the island nation of 22 million.

It was on track to become the top exporter within the next five years and double its employees. But with the Government of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa having defaulted on its foreign debt earlier this year and critical shortages crippling the economy, those plans are now in jeopardy as it be-

comes harder to maintain normal business operations.

Daily, hours-long power cuts are now normal. Fuel queues stretch for kilometres, sometimes so far that one fuel queue meets another. The country is running on a cash flow basis.

Steady power and smooth internet, essential for the IT industry to function effectively, are constantly affected.

Sri Lanka has several regional competitors in the IT sector, including India, Bangladesh and Vietnam.

“We have spent years cultivating relationships with clients, so they are understanding, but there is always a fear that our business will be taken away and given to competitors if we cannot maintain our delivery and quality,” said Waidyalankara.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

waste.

The bloc is home to 450 million people, some of the world’s richest consumers, and the imposition of the USB-C as a cable standard could also affect the entire global smartphone market.

Users of iPhones and Android phones have long complained about having to use different chargers for their devices. The former is charged from a Lightning cable while Android-based devices are powered using USB-C connectors.

Half the chargers sold with mobile phones in 2018 had a USB micro-B connector, while 29 per cent had a USB-C connector and 21 per cent a Lightning connector, according to a 2019 study by the

European Commission, the EU’s executive arm.

“The deal we struck this morning will bring around 250 million euros (US$267 million) of savings to consumers,” EU industry chief Thierry Breton said in a statement.

The European Commission had initially pushed for a single mobile charging port more than a decade ago, but companies failed to agree on a common solution.

Laptops will have to comply with the legislation within 40 months of it taking effect. The fact the deal also covers e-readers, ear buds and other technologies will mean Samsung, Huawei and other device makers are also affected. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Cameroon says soldiers killed 9 villagers in "disproportionate" use of force

C

ameroon's Government said on Tuesday that a group of soldiers killed nine villagers, including an 18-month-old girl, in a "manifestly disproportionate" and "hasty" response to a confrontation in the Northwest region last week.

The four soldiers were searching for a missing comrade in the village of Missong when they came across a group of angry villagers at night, the Defence Ministry said in a statement.

"In an inappropriate reaction, unsuited to the circumstances and manifestly disproportionate to the hostile villagers' refusal to cooperate ... the soldiers, in a hasty reaction of self-protection ... used their weapons," the statement said.

The victims were four men, four women and the infant, it said. A one-year-old child was lightly injured and taken to hospital.

The statement was an unusual admission of blame by

the army, which civilians and rights groups have accused of numerous killings and abuses during an ongoing separatist conflict.

Cameroon's Northwest Region is one of two Englishspeaking regions where secessionist fighters protesting about perceived marginalisation by the French-speaking majority have been battling Government troops since 2017.

Last year a mob lynched a military Police officer after he killed a five-year-old girl when he fired on a car at a checkpoint. A month later, a policeman killed an eightyear-old girl in similar circumstances.

The conflict has killed more than 3000 people and displaced nearly 1 million since it started.

The Ministry said the four soldiers have been arrested and an investigation opened, and offered its condolences to the families of the victims.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

20

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022

guyanatimesgy.com

DAILY HOROSCOPES

ARCHIE

Keep life simple. Don't get upset over something that doesn't matter. Stay focused on what counts and what will help you get where you want to go. Make health and fitness your priorities.

(March 21-April 19) Push for what you want, and don't stop until you get your way. You'll receive valuable information that helps you make sound financial decisions.

Don't ignore an opportunity.

DILBERT (April 20-May 20)

Take care of details, updates and redtape issues. Leaving responsibilities in someone's hands will lead to disappointment. Emotional deception is apparent.

Don't believe everything you hear.

(May 21-June 20) Let your imagination run wild, and you'll come up with ideas that can help you make a profit. Personal changes will give you confidence and encourage you to follow through with your plans.

PEANUTS (June 21-July 22)

Proceed with caution. Go over details and adjust only what's necessary. Pay more attention to what others do and learn as much as possible to avoid waste.

Keep your eye on the ball.

(July 23-Aug. 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Target what you want to achieve and apply your energy and enthusiasm to get the results you want. A compassionate attitude will encourage others to help you reach your objective on time.

Reluctance to get your hands dirty will cost you. Don't hold back, especially when taking care of business is essential to improving your life and achieving peace of mind. Curb your emotions.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

SUDOKU (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Quickly take care of domestic matters. Venture out and see what's going on in your neighborhood. Touch base with a close friend, relative or peer, and you'll discover valuable information.

Reaching out to someone struggling will give you a different perspective on life. Your wisdom and experience will help you pursue something you enjoy.

Mix business with pleasure.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

YESTERDAY'S WORD -- THREADY

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Anger will become a problem. Don't react to what someone does or says.

Carry out domestic changes that will make it easier for you to get the support you need to follow through with your plans.

Be a good listener, and it will help you understand what others are experiencing. Don't jump to conclusions; ask questions, make suggestions and do what you can to make things better.

Embrace peace.

You'll develop some impressive plans that help you raise your earning potential. Reach out to people who appreciate your skills. Self-improvement is featured. Embrace new ideas.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022

21

Project “Cricket gear for young and promising cricketers in Guyana…”

RHCCCC is latest beneficiary T

he under-15 cricket team of the Rose Hall Community Centre Cricket Club (RHCCCC) has been the recipient of 15 white cricket shirts, one box of junior cricket balls, one pair of wicket-keeping gloves and one pair of batting pads, compliments of the project “Cricket gear for young and promising cricketers in Guyana”.

This initiative is a venture jointly owned by Kishan Das of the USA and Anil Beharry of Guyana.

At a simple presentation held recently, Ameer Rahaman, the driving force behind this fast-rising RHCCCC, was high in praise for this noble gesture, and promised to continue to work hard to produce more players for Berbice, Guyana, and the West Indies.

Relatively young, this cricket club has already produced a West Indies Under-19 player in fast-bowling all-rounder Isai Thorne, and female star player Ashmini Munisar, a 19-yearold off spinner/batter, has been selected to represent Guyana in the upcoming Regional Female Cricket tournaments to be held here.

These two players are among many top-quality young cricketers produced by the RHCCCC,

including Adrian Hetmyer and Sanjay Algoo.

Responding to the words expressed by Ameer Rahaman, Anil Beharry said he is impressed with the work of the club, and would continue to assist the RHCCCC whenever possible. “This initiative is to help identify and nurture young talents, and at the same time encourage them to educate themselves,” Beharry explained. “The project is happy to assist young players, and has reached out to many promising cricketers and clubs across the length and breadth of Guyana, and it is the hope of the initiative to assist in producing more cricketers for Guyana and West Indies,” the former Berbice Cricket Board President continued.

Total cricket-related items collected so far by this initiative is as follows: $130,000 cash, two trophies, 11 cricket boots, 17 pairs of batting pads, 19 bats, 13 pairs of batting gloves, 19 thigh pads, one wicket-keeping pad, one arm guard, six cricket bags and two helmets. In addition to the above, $600,000 worth in gear was donated by Sheik Mohamed, former national wicketkeeper / batsman.

To date, 36 young players from all three counties of Guyana have

Top Under-15 players from RHCCCC pose with their shirts

already benefited from the receipt of three junior gear bags, two trophies, one arm guard, 13 bats, one box of junior cricket balls, two helmets, nine pairs of cricket shoes, nine pairs of batting pads, one bat rubber and 11 pairs of batting gloves.

In addition, two clubs in the Pomeroon area hae benefited

f r o m two used bats. Pomeroon, Leguan, Wakenaam Cricket Committees and Cotton Tree Die Hard also received one box of red cricket balls each, while RHCCCC received two boxes of balls, fifteen white cricket shirts, one pair of junior batting pads, one pair of wicket-keeping gloves and a set of stumps and bails.

Cricketrelated items, used or new, will be distributed free of cost to young and promising cricketers in Guyana. Skills, discipline and education are important characteristics of the recipients.

Talent-spotting is being done across the country, and club leaders will also assist to identify

talent. Progressive and well managed clubs would also benefit.

The owners of this initiative have said: “We take this opportunity to thank Javed and Imran of West Indian Sports Complex; Option Group of USA; Hilbert Foster; Bish Panday of P and P Insurance Brokers; Sean Devers; Trevis Simon; Årïêl J. Tïlkú; Aaron Beharry; Leanna Bachan and Imran Saccoor; Devon Ramnauth; Teddy Singh; Romash Munna; Ravi Etwaroo; Kelvin Brijlall; Ravin Harkishun; Surendra Harkishun; Allan Mangru; Vishal Mahabir; Sherman Austin; Huburn Evans; Rajendra Sadeo and Ramesh Sunich of Trophy Stall; Sheik Mohamed of Star Sports Awards and Trophies, and Ajay Gainda of Cricket Equipment Guyana; Gajanand Singh; Peter Ramkissoon; Rabindranath Saywack; Roshan Gaffoor; Ameer Rahaman; Denesh Chandrapaul and Dr Cecil Beharry.

“Thanks to the media for the role they are playing in promoting this venture. Distribution will continue. Anyone interested in contributing can contact Anil Beharry on 623-6875, or Kishan Das on 1-718-664-0896.

Woods to miss US JFF General Secretary Dalton Wint to Open, but plans to resign in fallout from Suriname debacle play at St Andrew’s

T

iger Woods will not play at the U.S. Open this month, but plans to be at St Andrew’s for the Open in July.

The 15-time major champion withdrew from the US PGA Championship last month, after shooting a nine-over 79 in his third round.

Woods was playing in only his second tournament since suffering serious leg injuries in a car crash in February 2021.

The 46-year-old had made a sensational comeback at The Masters in April, defying the odds to make the cut at Augusta, before finishing 47th.

Woods stated ahead of the US PGA Championship at Southern Hills that he felt "a lot stronger" than he did after making an unlikely Masters comeback, but strug gled on moving

day in the second major of the year.

The legendary American on Tuesday confirmed he would not feature in the U.S. Open, which starts at The Country Club in Brookline, Massachusetts on June 16.

However, he is aiming to tee off in the JP McManus ProAm at Adare Manor in County Limerick on July 4-5, and play in the last major of the year in Scotland, which gets under way on July 14.

He tweeted: "I previously informed the USGA that I will not be competing in the @ usopengolf as my body needs more time to get stronger for major championship golf.

"I do hope and plan to be ready to play in Ireland at @ JPProAm and at @TheOpen next month. I'm excited to get back out there soon!"

Woods outlined his plans amid a storm in the golfing world, with his compatriots Dustin Johnson and Phil Mickelson having resigned from the PGA Tour to play in the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series.

Greg Norman, the CEO of LIV Golf, this week told the Washington Post that Woods had turned down a "mindblowingly enormous" offer to play in the controversial breakaway series. (Sportsmax)

J

amaica Football Federation General Secretary Dalton Wint appears to have yielded to the demand of the Reggae Boyz that he resign his position.

Wint has been the target of the players’ ire after they had been left stranded in Suriname on Saturday night, June 4, following their 1-1 draw with the host country.

The JFF had failed to make proper arrangements for the players to return to Jamaica, an embarrassing situation that the players laid squarely at the feet of the beleaguered general secretary.

According to a statement reportedly coming from the players, “It was the straw that broke the camel’s back”, and they refuse to go on unless Wint resigns from his post.

JFF President Michael Ricketts confirmed on Monday that the board had met to discuss the situation, but up to later that day, there was no official word regarding the board’s position on the demand made by the players, whom Sportsmax.

TV understands refused to train in preparation for the return match against Suriname on Tuesday evening.

However, in a statement released late Monday night, the JFF signalled that an end to the impasse is in sight.

“The General Secretary of the Jamaica Football Federation, Mr Dalton Wint, has given his unequivocal and irreversible

Jamaica Football Federation General Secretary Dalton Wint

commitment to submit his resignation from the post,” the JFF said. “The Board of Directors of the JFF look forward to receiving same soonest. Other relevant information regarding this matter will be shared with the country in the coming days.”

Meantime, Jamaica’s Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sports, revealed its part in getting the players home from Suriname early on Monday morning.

Minister Olivia Grange revealed that her Ministry intervened to facilitate the safe return of the irate players, who returned to Jamaica at approximately 7:15am on Monday.

“On Saturday, June 4, 2022, I was advised of challenges being experienced by the Reggae Boyz delegation in Suriname. I was made to understand that travel arrangements for their return to Jamaica, after the match against Suriname on Saturday, had been cancelled, and my assistance was being sought,” the Minister said in

a statement.

“I was told that because the players had to return in time for another match, normal flight schedules would not allow for their return. On my instructions, a number of steps were taken by my Permanent Secretary and the General Manager of the Sports Development Foundation (SDF) to assist in addressing the problem.

“A company was identified from which we could charter a flight in the short time frame.

Reggae Boy Leon Bailey was instrumental in identifying the charter company.

“We were advised by the company identified that the charter flight would cost US$105,000.00 which had to be paid immediately in order for the aircraft, which was in Mexico, to be released to pick up the team in Suriname. Unfortunately, with this taking place over the weekend, the circumstances prevented the SDF from accessing the required banking services.”

As a result, Minister Grange said, JFF President Michael Ricketts contacted Christopher Williams, CEO of PROVEN and Chairman of the Premier Football Jamaica League (PFJL), to assist with the identification of the required funds, and the Government of Jamaica, through the SDF, committed to ensuring that the funds advanced would be repaid.

“Based on the commitment of the Government, Mr Williams put the necessary mechanisms

in place to advance the payment for the charter flight, with the firm understanding that he would be reimbursed in the shortest possible time,” the Minister explained.

“All the parties involved were aware of the urgent need to act, bearing in mind the risk of the Jamaican delegation being stranded in Suriname, and the players not being able to honour the fixture scheduled for Tuesday, June 7, 2022,” the Minister continued, adding that she spoke directly to the players, whom she said were upset with the JFF Administration, which they blamed for the crisis.

The players, she said, then agreed to play the game in Suriname on schedule.

“The Under-Secretary for the Diaspora, Protocol and Consular Affairs Division in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade (MFAFT) played a critical role in securing the landing and flyover permits. The team from the Ministries were in negotiation from Saturday afternoon until early Monday morning to ensure that the permits were received,” the Minister said.

“I will be writing to the JFF requesting a detailed report on the matter, and my team and I will continue to work closely with the JFF and the Reggae Boyz as we are also aware of other matters of concern related to the management of what is possibly the most popular sport in Jamaica.” (Sportsmax)

22

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Female WI cricket tournament…

Barbados, Windward Islands record victories as T20 Blaze commences

Windward Islands (green) made it across the line in the nick of time

By Timothy Jaikarran

D

espite the rain on Tuesday, beautiful sunshine graced the Providence Stadium as Cricket West Indies’ T20 Blaze commenced. Notable wins were recorded by Barbados and the Windward Islands as major highlights of the day.

The rivalry continues The big match of the day was the Guyana versus Barbados match, with the home team playing against the defending champions. The match did not disappoint, as the two teams went after each other like raging bulls that have locked horns.

With the few fans at the venue vociferously backing the home side, the Bajan dugout cheered their side with much gusto.

Batting first, the Bajans were dismissed for 86 in 19.2 overs.

The Guyanese were able to prevent the Bajans from setting a huge total. Hayley Matthews was the standout Bajan player with 35, no other player could render Matthews any support, as the Guyanese made full use of their home advantage against the defending champions.

Bowling for Guyana, Cherry Ann Fraser returned figures of 3-11, Ashmini Munisar’s figures were 2-11, Mandy Mangru’s were 2-13, Kaysia Shultz

produced figures of 2-7, and Shenetta Grimmond took 1-8.

Heading into the chase, the home team needed 87 off 120 balls for victory, but things didn’t quite work out the way Guyana wanted it. They lost Katana Mentore for 4, and shortly after, Mandy Mangru injured herself while running, and retired not out on zero. Shabika Gajnabi and Shemaine Campbelle held things together with a 45-run partnership, but Gajnabi found herself in the pavilion for 14.

The score moved from 54-2 to 79-9 as Guyana lost seven wickets for a mere 25 runs.

Campbelle was the top scorer with 33, while in the bowling department Shakera Selman bagged 3-26, Aaliyah Alleyne 3-18, Shanika Bruce 1-15, and Hayley Matthews, with an economical spell, produced 1-7 from her four overs.

The see-saw encounter In the first game of the day, the Windward Islands battled the Leeward Islands, and the action was spectacular from the first ball bowled. The Leeward

GCF rewards chess players for outstanding performance

T

The full complement of prize winners at the GCF’s awards ceremony

he Guyana Chess Federation held its awards ceremony on Sunday June 5th, 2022 at the Park Vue Hotel, and players were given prizes for their outstanding performances in the sport over the past few months.

This encompasses a total of five major tournaments: the Junior National Chess Championship, the National Women’s Qualifiers, the Women’s Championship, the National Open Qualifiers, and the National Championship for 2022.

In the Junior National Chess Championship, 17-year-old Ricardo Narine was presented with his Championship Trophy for earning the title of Junior National Champion 2022. Other players rewarded with trophies from the Junior Nationals are 2nd place Ethan Lee, 3rd place Rajiv Lee, 4th place Kyle Couchman, 5th place Keron Sandiford, and 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th and 10th places went to Ronan Lee, Sasha Shariff, Matthew Singh, Jessica Callender and Mayas Khan respectively.

In the Women’s Chess Qualifiers, the top 9 females received medals. With Jessica Callender receiving her first-place medal, 2nd place went to Pooja Lam and 3rd place to Anaya Lall, while 4th to 9th places went to Nellisha Johnson, Adia Alphonso,

Maliha Rajkumar, Waveney Johnson, Angel Rahim and Elizabeth McRae respectively.

Pooja Lam received her Championship Trophy for her win at the Women’s National Tournament. At 14 years old, she became the youngest National Women’s Champion in Guyana’s history.

The Women’s Nationals were first held in 2018, when WFM Maria Varona Thomas won the inaugural title. The most recent Women’s Champion was 18-year-old Sasha Shariff, who came second in this year’s tournament. She has held the title since the Championship was last held in 2020, when had won at 16 years old. Other players awarded trophies from the Women’s Nationals are 3rd place Nellisha Johnson, 4th place Jessica Callender, and 5th place Anaya Lall.

In the National Open Chess Qualifiers, FM Anthony Drayton was rewarded for his win, with Wendell Meusa coming in 2nd, Roberto Neto 3rd, Loris Nathoo 4th; and with 5th to 9th places going to Frankie Farley, Ethan Lee, Rashad Hussain, Justino DaSilva and Rai Sharma respectively.

They all received medals.

National Chess Champion for 2022, Wendell Meusa, was presented with his trophy, making this his eight National

Title in Guyana.

Taffin Khan received his trophy for his second-place win, with Anthony Drayton 3rd, Frankie Farley 4th, and Roberto Neto coming in 5th place.

Prizes were presented by President of the GCF, Mr. Frankie Farley, and Tournament Director Mr. Irshad Mohamad, who commended the players for their exceptional performances and participation. Due to the time constraint for naming the Olympiad Team for Chennai, India, the GCF hosted back-toback tournaments over the last 3 months where FIDE arbiters John Lee and Anand Raghunauth worked tirelessly to make these tournaments successful, and the GCF is extremely grateful to them.

The Guyana Chess Federation hereby extends its heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to DeSinco Ltd, who sponsored the Junior Nationals, KFC Guyana for sponsoring the Women’s Tournaments, and Gaico for sponsoring the National Open Tournaments.

Special thanks to Mr. Mohamed Khan of Arrowten Incorporated for sponsoring the venue, and to Mr. Raul Couchman of Artistic Marketing for taking the photographs at the awards ceremony.

Cherry Ann Fraser is flooded by her team mates as she bagged 3-11

Islands unit lost their first wicket without a run on the board, and, to make matters worse, they soon found themselves reeling at 24-3 as their opponents brought on the heat.

However, as the wickets tumbled and the runs dried up, the Leeward Islands unit were forced on the back foot, and a T20 encounter soon became a Test match encounter as the Leeward Islands’ only hope was to ‘block out’ the rest of the deliveries and see how many runs they could add to their tally.

In the end, they were restricted to 56-7 in their allotted 20 overs.

Rosalie Dolabaille was the top scorer with 21 off 46 deliveries. Bowling for the Windward Islands, Pearl Etienne took 2-8, Jannillea Glasgow took 1-6 and Afy Fletcher took 1-4.

Many had expected the

A

small total to be chased with ease, but the Leeward Islands ladies turned on the heat and applied the pressure early.

Windward Islands soon found themselves from 10-1 to 27-3 at one point of the game it, and it looked as though the Leeward Islands had it in the bag.

However, a few wides and no balls cost them some valuable runs despite the constant loss of Windward Islands’ wickets. The Windward Island ladies allowed their opponents to draw out the game, as they made a target of 57 runs seem as though they had to climb Mount Everest.

When the sixth wicket fell, the Leeward Islands celebrated, but it was a little too late, as the Windward Islands closed out the game, winning by 4 wickets.

Windward Islands ended on 57-6 in 17.1 overs.

Mohamed Khan becomes Guyana’s first certified Continental Archery Judge

rchery Guyana hereby congratulates its President, Mohamed Gamal Khan, on his successfully completing the World Archery America’s recently concluded Continental Judge’s Training Seminar, wherein he was one of three to graduate and be certified as a Continental Judge.

Mr. Khan’s achievement is especially impressive since he has achieved this elevation a mere two years after being trained as a National Judge.

This training seminar offered a unique opportunity to the 5 (five) persons who attended the training seminar from across the Western Hemisphere to secure this highly desirable certification.

The programme was intensive and comprehensive, resulting in Khan being one of only three persons to successfully complete the course and receive the coveted certification. He is now uniquely placed to assist with the advancement and development of the discipline in Guyana.

Archery Guyana is especially pleased since in its ranks there is a World Archery Americas-Certified Continental Judge, given that Continental Judges are held in high esteem

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In this regard, the SecretaryGeneral of Archery Guyana, Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon, congratulates Mohamed Gamal Khan for successfully completing this course and becoming Guyana’s first Continental Archery Judge. She also expressed great delight in this next phase of advancement for Archery Guyana, as she acknowledges what this means for Guyana moving forward with the hosting of National, Regional and International Competitions.

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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022

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Keemo Paul added to ODI Squad for West Indies tour of Pakistan T

he Cricket West Indies (CWI) Selection Panel has added all-rounder Keemo Paul to the squad for the upcoming OneDay International Series in Pakistan.

The West Indies arrived in Multan on Monday, after the impressive 3-0 series win in The Netherlands. They will now prepare to face Pakistan at the Multan International Cricket Stadium on June 8, 10 and 12.

Lead Selector the Most

Honorable Dr. Desmond Haynes said: “Keemo Paul has been kept out in the recent past due to injury, and we view the management of his body as paramount to his success, not only when on West Indies duty, but also when he is with his regional franchise. We have watched him perform in the recent West Indies Championship Four-Day Competition for the Guyana Harpy Eagles, and we think he is ready to come back into the fold.”

During the first-class tournament, Paul was the leading fast bowler and second highest wicket-taker overall.

He ended the five matches with 20 wickets at an average of 22.8 runs per wicket. He had best figures of 6-50. He was also among the leading allrounder with 169 runs, including a highest score of 73.

The West Indies tour of Pakistan will bowl off on Wednesday, June 8. First ball is 4pm PKT time (7am Eastern Caribbean/6am Jamaica). The

series will also form part of the ICC ODI Super League, where the teams will have the chance to earn points as they try to secure automatic qualification to the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in India. (Windies Cricket) FULL SQUAD * Nicholas Pooran (Captain) * Shai Hope (Vice Captain) * Nkrumah Bonner * Shamarh Brooks

* Keacy Carty * Akeal Hosein * Alzarri Joseph * Brandon King * Shermon Lewis * Kyle Mayers * Keemo Paul * Anderson Phillip * Rovman Powell * Jayden Seales * Romario Shepherd * Hayden Walsh Jr.

FULL MATCH SCHEDULE * Wednesday, June 8: 1st

23

ODI at Multan International Cricket Stadium * Friday, June 10: 2nd ODI at Multan International Cricket Stadium * Sunday, June 12: 3rd ODI at Multan International Cricket Stadium

Multan reclaims its spotlight as Pakistan and West Indies go to battle

I Quincy Adams led the charge in defence for the Golden Jags Story and photos by Jemima Holmes

A

collective effort from the Golden Jaguars on Tuesday afternoon ensured they sit comfortably at the top of Group B of League B of the CONCACAF Nations (CNL) League B. The home crowd did well to motivate the senior men’s national team, as they managed

series of well executed plays off the opportunity of a set piece set Bermuda’s Dante Leverock up square in front of the goal.

With a beauty of a bicycle kick later, Leverock brought a sense of relief to the Bermudan camp with the equaliser in the 42nd minute.

In spite of the goal, Quillian Roberts was superb in the nets, keeping the visitors out of contention for much of the

Omari Glasgow has now extended his personal tally to 3 goals from 2 games

to achieve a 2-1 victory over Bermuda.

Guyana’s starting XI at the Leonora Track and Field Facility, West Coast Demerara, read: Quillan Roberts (Goalkeeper), Leo Lovell, Jaylen Jones, Quincy Adams, Captain Samuel Cox, Daniel Wilson, Neil Danns, Omari Glasgow, Stephen DukeMckenna, Trayon Bobb and Torell Ondaan.

The contest between Bermuda and Guyana was evenly matched, until Trayon Bobb broke free of the opposition’s defence and was able to secure Guyana’s first goal in the 35th minute. The line of assist came down from Quincy Adams in defence to Stephen Duke-Mckenna in the midfield.

Bermuda’s intensity immediately touched the roof, as they searched for the equaliser in a foreign land. A

encounter.

Each time he had the ball on his toes, the crowd gathered at the Leonora Stadium erupted

through the legs of Bermudan goalkeeper Dale Eve, but also through those of defender Leverock.

Coming back from the half with the advantage, Guyana held firm to ensure that Bermuda was unable to equalise once again, largely due to the work of Quincy Adams in the defence.

Glasgow had another opportunity to add to his tally in the Nation’s League, but his attempt at the set piece went sailing over the head of the opposing goalkeeper.

Nonetheless, when the whistle finally blew, Guyana led the game 2-1 for another 3 points.

The Golden Jaguars are still in the lead of Group B with 6 points. Haiti takes second place with 4, after a narrow 3-2 victory over Montserrat, also on Tuesday evening. Bermuda has one point, while Montserrat is yet to make a case for itself.

The Golden Jaguars will now shift their attention to Haiti, since they will clash at the Leonora venue this Saturday, June 11. Again, on June 14, Guyana will meet the same opposition, this time in the Dominican Republic, in what

Trayon Bobb is all too familiar with the Leonora pitch, scoring for the Golden Jags

with cheers of “Mari!!, Mari!!”

They finally got what they came to witness in the 45th+ 2, when Omari Glasgow took an assist in the box and guided it, not only

will be considered as Haiti’s home game. Arguably, the two contests will decide who leads the group, at the conclusion of the first round of league games.

t's 326 BC. The Internet hasn't been invented. The first Test match is yet to be played.

We're talking about a time well before even the first Shahid Afridi retirement announcement. A time when incursions of any kind are dictated as much by the weather as by any other tactical consideration; launching one in the winter - with defence against the cold virtually non-existent - is perhaps the most unforgivable blunder one could commit.

Even 2,000 years later, two of the most famously disastrous military debacles - Napoleon's invasion of Russia, and Nazi Germany's invasion of the Soviet Union - were largely done in the extreme cold.

And yet, when Alexander was plotting a move against the Mallians in what is now widely considered to be Multan, he ruled out waiting till the summer months. He picked instead the miserably wet winter months to launch his campaign, catching the inhabitants by surprise. The citadel was besieged, and by February, the city had fallen, before winter was forced to begin its annual eight-month retreat from South Punjab's most prominent city.

2,348 years later, it perhaps becomes clearer why the ancient Greek emperor preferred to give Multan a wide berth once the summer sun had set in.

An incursion of a very different kind is upon us, with the West Indies cricket team set to play Pakistan in an ODI series carried over from last year, and much has changed in one of the cities most redolent of the subcontinent's uniquely storied history. It is now a bustling modern metropolis, a hub of commercial and economic activity, with state-of-the-art infrastructure. Little has changed in one aspect, though; there remains virtually no defence against the oppressive heat.

The temperature on each of the days the three ODIs are due to be played will regularly exceed 45C, forcing the games to begin well into the evening, likely finishing after midnight. Multan was by no means Pakistan's first choice as host at this time of year, with the slightly cooler Rawalpindi originally slated to host the games. But political uncertainty forced a change of venue, and with Lahore and Karachi's surfaces being relaid, the Pakistan Cricket Board had little choice but to move a series being held at the hottest time of the year to the hottest city with an international cricket ground.

However, this isn't the first time a series is being held in uncomfortably hot weather, and with empty spaces in the calendar shrinking ever further, it certainly won't be the last. Indeed, the PSL last year famously took place in Abu Dhabi in June and July, and the BBL and IPL are regularly held at times when dry heat in a

look set to produce big scores once more. That might mean Pakistan's soft underbelly - their middle order - stays shielded once again, but Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq and Babar have glorious opportunities to pick up where they left off.

West Indies face challenges on multiple fronts. You don't need

number of host cities is high. Add to that the fact this series was a victim of Covid-induced havoc the previous winter, and originally scheduled for December.

Pakistan have made preparations to combat the heat, holding training camps in advance to ensure they're as acclimatised as they possibly can be. There are, after all, Super League points at stake, and Pakistan, with only six wins out of 12 this cycle, would need to push themselves further up the table if they are to avoid the World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe. Babar Azam's men are fresh off an impressive comefrom-behind series win over Australia at home, and will field a largely full-strength side.

They should be firm favourites against an opposition that, until their 3-0 series win in the Netherlands last week, hadn't won an away ODI series for more than a decade.

With preparations for the World Cup next year gradually kicking, it's that series against Australia that perhaps offers the clearest blueprint for the brand of ODI cricket Pakistan want to play, and the quality they bring to the table on batting-friendly tracks.

West Indies don't possess Australia's quality in either department, and the bonedry pitches Multan will offer up

Google to know Amstelveen's conditions are unlikely to equip them to handle what they will experience in Multan. You also don't need to check the ICC rankings to know victory over the Netherlands is probably not indicative of the way things might go against Pakistan.

But even so, West Indies will be buoyed by the variety of performers they had in the Netherlands. The three hundreds were scored by three different top-order batters, while rising star Brandon King smashed two unbeaten half-centuries to finish that series off. Akeal Hosein and Alzarri Joseph were consistently solid with the ball, and victory, regardless of the opposition, will always provide the one thing that all sportspeople need: confidence.

Even for this city, teeming with 1000-year-old Sufi mystic shrines, temples and mosques, as well as the saintly tombs that give Multan its sobriquet, this series is historic. It's the first international cricket held outside the three major power centres in Pakistan since the 2009 attack, allowing Multan to savour something it has been deprived of for far too long: the spotlight. It's a glorious place to pay a visit, but - as even Alexander knew two millennia ago - perhaps when the weather's a little bit cooler. (Cricinfo)

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2022

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

Female WI cricket tournament…

Barbados, Windward Islands record victories as T20 Blaze commences Page 22

Page 23

Page 23 Omari Glasgow charging to the nets in pursuit of his 3rd goal of the CNL

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