Guyana Times -- Wednesday, March 9, 2022

Int’l Women’s Day

Be unshakeable in fight for P gender equality – First Lady 12

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

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 4943

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022

PRICE

Venezuela border controversy

Guyana submits arguments in border case against Venezuela to ICJ

See story on page 3

…now looks to ICJ to settle matter in accordance with law

Digicel aiming to roll out residential …mobile service landline service in 1 year upgrades underway Page 9

Horrific De Willem accident

“He tell me ‘sorry’.

Wah sorry can do?” – mother calls for justice See story on page 7

Dead: 22-year-old Carlito Gobin

$100 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Farmers upset as millers P20 reduce price for tonne of rice

“Get registered” – PNC Chair to Guyanese on GECOM’s continuous P12 registration 14 new COVID-19 cases, 4 in ICU P13 Ogle airport drug bust

Women remanded for cocaine found P11 in mats

Lusignan welding shop goes up in P2 flames Dead: Kiran Rampersaud

…“they don’t have respect for the road” – brother on reckless drivers

Method of prosecution cannot remain stagnant in evolving society …failed system causes citizens to – AG take law into their own hands See story on page 10

40% of 10,000 Govt-distributed house lots awarded solely to women

Over 150 P24 fire hydrants replaced across Georgetown

See story on page 19

…not as a wife, not as a co-applicant, not as a partner, but in their own right – Rodrigues

P26 US bans Russian crude, Britain launches phase-out

...expected to negotiate with Venezuela to substitute crude

2 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Lusignan welding shop goes up in flames

T

he Guyana Fire Service (GFS) is currently investigating

the circumstances which led to a fire on Monday evening at a welding shop at

Lusignan on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD).

Reports are that the

The building engulfed in fire at Lusignan, ECD

Fire Department was alerted about the fire at about 20:55h and dispatched water tenders from the Alberttown, Campbellville, and Melanie Fire Stations to the Lot 271 Public Road Lusignan, ECD location.

The structure, which was a wooden and concrete building of two floors, is owned

by Joseph Mohammed and was occupied by Jamalodeen Mohammed as a welding shop.

As a result of the fire, the building and its contents were destroyed. One jet from the original tank supply and two jets from an open water source were used to extinguish the blaze.

Investigations are ongoing to determine what caused the fire.

An ambulance and crew from the Guyana Fire and Rescue Service and the Police were also present at the scene, the Fire Service

said.

The Guyana Fire Service said it continues to call for the appropriate fire prevention and response measures to be put in place to avoid the loss of private and public buildings and to avoid the risk of injury and loss of life.

Only a week ago a fouryear-old boy perished after a fire destroyed a Tucville Squatting Area, Georgetown home. The child was identified only as Jemel.

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

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

Wednesday, Mar 9 – 09:00h – 10:30h and Thursday, Mar 10 – 09:30h – 11:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Wednesday, Mar 9 – 07:45h – 09:15h and Thursday, Mar 10 – 08:30h – 10:00h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

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

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

High Tide: 08:30h and 21:01h reaching maximum heights of 2.37 metres and 2.2 metres.

Low Tide: 14:32h reaching a minimum height of 0.88 metre.

SATURDAY, MARCH 5, 2022

LOTTERY NUMBERS L

06 13 14

15 19 22

FREE TICKET

2 Bonus Ball

TUESDAY, MARCH 8, 2022

DAILY MILLIONS

08 12 16 17 25 LUCKY 3

6

0

5

4

Afternoon Draw

1

0

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

03 08 09 10 14 20 21 SUPER

PAY DAY

PAY DAY

FRIDAY, MARCH 4, 2022

01 02 04 06 09 13

05 08 13 16 20

2

7 Afternoon Draw

2X Afternoon Draw

6

9 Evening Draw

2X Evening Draw

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

COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Change %

Crude Oil

$130.23/barrel

+1.76

Rough Rice

$289.17/ton

+0.41

London Sugar

$536.50/ton

0.00

Live Spot Gold

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$2040.62

$2043.60

Low/High Change

$1991.20 -10.00

$2071.70 -0.49%

Venezuela border controversy

Guyana submits arguments in border case against Venezuela to ICJ …now looks to ICJ to settle matter in accordance with law

G

uyana has submitted its written arguments for its memorial to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) right on schedule, a critical step in the adjudication of Guyana’s border controversy with Venezuela.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation confirmed the submission of the memorial to the ICJ. This was a requirement of the international court, per its December 18, 2020 decision that it had the jurisdiction to hear the case against Venezuela.

“Guyana has today submitted to the International Court of Justice in The Hague, its Memorial on the Merits of its Case against Venezuela – as required by the Court following its decision of 18 December 2020 confirming its jurisdiction to decide the merits of Guyana’s claims.”

“The matter is before the Court pursuant to the decision of the Secretary General of the United Nations under the 1966 Geneva Agreement, by which the parties conferred upon the Secretary General the authority to determine the means by which the controversy between Guyana and Venezuela shall be settled,” the Ministry stated.

In its statement, they noted that Guyana now looks to the Court’s judicial process to settle the matter in accordance with the rule of law. According to the Ministry, the true commemoration of the 1966 Geneva Agreement is to participate fully in the juridical process… possibly a reference to Venezuela, which has been denying the jurisdiction of the court, despite the court already ruling it had this jurisdiction.

“Guyana seeks from the Court a decision that the Arbitral Award of 1899 determining the boundary is valid and binding upon Guyana and Venezuela, and that the boundary established by that Award and the 1905 Agreement demarcating it, is the lawful boundary between Guyana and Venezuela. The Court has agreed in its earlier decision that it has jurisdiction to do so. Guyana now looks to the Court’s judicial process and its settlement of the matter under the rule of law.”

“This year sees the 56th anniversary of the 1966 Geneva Agreement.

Guyana considers that the true commemoration of that Agreement is in contributing in good faith to the fulfilment of its true meaning and intent by participating fully in the current juridical process deriving from it. Hence the submission today to the International

The International Court of Justice

Court of Justice of Guyana’s Memorial on the Merits as required by the Court,” the Ministry further explained.

Guyana moved to the world court after exhausting all means of negotiation with Venezuela and the failed good offices process between the two South American neighbours. Then United Nations Secretary General António Guterres, in January 2018, decided that the case should be settled by the ICJ after exercising the powers vested in him to decide how the controversy should be settled by the 1966 Geneva Agreement between Guyana, Venezuela, and the United Kingdom.

The ICJ is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations. It was established by the United Nations Charter in June 1945, and began its activi-

ties in April 1946. The Court is composed of 15 Judges elected for a nine-year term by the General Assembly and the Security Council of the United Nations. The seat of the Court is at the Peace Palace in The Hague (Netherlands).

Back in March 2021, the ICJ had granted Guyana until March 8, 2022, to file its written submissions for the case, after requesting 12 months. Venezuela was given until March 8, 2023, to submit its counter-memorial.

The Spanish-speaking nation is laying claims to more than two-thirds of Guyana’s landmass in Essequibo and a portion of its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in which more than nine billion barrels of oil have been discovered over the past six years.

In his address to the 76th Session of the UN General Assembly last year, President Dr Irfaan Ali had informed the world about Venezuela’s continued disregard for international norm in pushing its illegal claim to Guyana and its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

The President had also used meetings with the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) to update them on Venezuela’s actions, which had run the gamut from incendiary statements to issuing decrees.

Following his meeting with Caricom, the community had issued a statement rebuking Venezuela and urging it to adhere to the ICJ process. (G3)

4

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022

Views Wife of Prime Minister Mark Phillips, Mignon Bowen-Phillips, being presented with tokens of appreciation in observance of International Women's Day by several senior female employees within the Prime Minister's Office (Office of the Prime Minister photos)

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

O

Women’s upward mobility

ne of the best ways by which individuals can be empowered is by an appropriate education and creation of empowerment programmes to enable equitable opportunities for upward mobility for every citizen.

Yet, disadvantaged women and youths proliferate, not only in Guyana but the Caribbean and further afield as well.

Societies in general are veering away from male domination in workplaces, and Government and the Private Sector are determined to provide equal opportunities for employees, regardless of gender.

The issue of women and their role in development has always been a topic of interest, and debates have centred around the challenges women face in getting access to the same opportunities as men; and, in a general sense, programmes and policies that could be implemented to ensure their economic and social advancement.

Women, over the years, have made tremendous progress, not only in terms of their own advancement, but by playing key roles in the development of their own communities, and, by extension, allowing other women opportunities to develop themselves.

However, many challenges remain, and these must be tackled to ensure that women have access to the opportunities and resources needed to allow them to lead more productive and fulfilling lives.

However, women – the child-bearers and primary childcarers – are disadvantaged by domestic responsibilities, and many men abdicate their responsibilities in parenting and being equal partners in the home.

There is a dire need for men to create behavioural change in their domestic and child-rearing engagements. The accrued benefits to the entire family would be manifold, and the satisfaction and happiness of family togetherness would redound to the well-being of everyone, not least the children.

If they grow up in an environment of caring and sharing, most likely they would become rounded adults, and incidents of juvenile delinquency would be reduced. Most of the ills in society are caused by delinquent fathers and spouses.

Despite many attempts by successive Governments to empower/educate women and youths in diverse ways, there are still great numbers of women with leadership skills and business acumen who are constrained by diverse circumstances from optimising their potential for wealth and job creation.

Some years ago, under the Administration of former President Bharrat Jagdeo, the Human Services and Social Security Ministry, in collaboration with the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI), launched the “Women of Worth” (WoW) loan programme, which helped single-parent women start and/or expand their businesses. This initiative was driven by then subject Minister Priya Manickchand.

Through initiatives like WoW, Government, in partnership with institutions like GBTI, has proven that providing enabling mechanisms can make a tangible impact on the lives of vulnerable women, and consequently their children. By removing financial obstacles, the partnership with GBTI helped women realise their true potential through building businesses. Through the WoW initiative, women used their acumen to grow local communities, build wealth, and ultimately contribute to making Guyana better as a whole.

Before their advent into politics in then British Guiana, local women were treated as beings of less worth by the colonial overlords. Women could not work in the Public Service after marriage, and they certainly could not vote, among a multiplicity of human/women’s rights constraints.

Over the years, intrepid women fought for equality, and after much struggle and countless engagements at various fora, women were permitted greater freedoms in the sociopolitical dynamics of the nation. Today, women proliferate in leadership roles in every sphere of activity in the nation.

One of the most pressing needs for working mothers is the provision of safe childcare facilities in communities and workplaces. There are innumerable retired nurses and teachers who would certainly happily accept employment in such facilities.

The President Irfaan Ali Administration has been off to a great start in addressing pressing social issues, and projects slated to empower women in the society.

So-called civic groups’ posture on Govt (Pt 2) Dear Editor, For ease of reference, the GYEITI is part of a global standard that promotes transparency and accountability in oil, gas and mining sectors. The EITI is governed by an international Board and there are about 56 countries that have agreed to adopt the EITI standard. The Board consists of 20 members representing implementing countries, supporting countries, civil society organisations, industry and institutional investors. The benefits of implementing countries include more investments, promotion of open and accountable governance as well as greater political and economic stability.

Interestingly to note, Guyana gave its first impetus for the implementation of the EITI in 2010 and in 2012, Guyana’s commitment was followed by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Government of Guyana at the time (which is the current Administration), and the EITI. Clearly, the layman reading this epistle would understand that even though this seemingly vexatious group sought to bash the newly appointed National Coordinator of the GYEITI and by extension the Government, the GYEITI is governed by an international Board. Therefore, the credibility of the process, inter alia, the continued implementation and compliance of this global standard, by and large, is likely to be unjeopardised. In other words, it is the commitment of the Government of the day to im-

plement this global standard, which is ultimately governed by an international Board.

Editor, if this particular group of civil society NGOs are really serious about contributing in a meaningful way to Guyana’s development, then it would be worthwhile for them to reconsider their strategic approach. Where for example, instead of criticising for the sake of critiquing albeit weak and lacking empirical substance, they may want to consider engaging directly with the Government of the day. However, they would have to do better than just selling narratives characterised as misinformation and effectively misleading the public. A framework of open dialogue which I know the Government is open to from all stakeholders would be appropriate. The Government is not averse to criticism, in fact the Government has demonstrated on many occasions that they are open to constructive criticisms. For example, for the first time in Guyana’s recent political landscape, the Government of the day accepted ten of fourteen proposals from the Opposition which was included as amendments to the final Local Content Act. Unfortunately, this cannot be said for the Natural Resource Fund Act, where the Opposition brought zero proposal to the National Assembly as was demonstrated, they had a different agenda.

It is also safe to say, and evidently so, that the highest level of Government up to the President himself is visible

and accessible to the public, something which was not the norm by the former President.

This is an irrefutable fact where the former President hardly interacted with the public, and particularly the press/press conferences. In fact, most of his press conferences were controlled press conferences where journalists were limited in the amount of questions they can ask. And, I can never recall a time when the former President made decisions on the spot and intelligibly respond to questions on matters of the economy.

The current President is well versed in these areas and on many occasions instructed his Ministers and made decisions on the spot to address concerns of the citizens, whenever he is in an outreach exercise.

I can also attest personally to the fact that the former President in his five years term in office rarely or perhaps never afforded the leadership of Private Sector organisations (which are also civil society stakeholders) the opportunity to engage with him in meetings. Today, the current President and all of the Cabinet Ministers are almost always available to engage private sector organisations upon their requests to so do.

The hullabaloo by the referenced civic groups that the Government is out of control and that there is no objective assessment of issues, are two unjustified assertions, and divorced from reality. If they are looking for objective assessment of public policies and issues, there are several credible organisations they can

turn to, such as the IMF, the IDB and a few other international think tanks such as Rystad that produces analyses on the oil and gas sector.

It is untrue that Government policies and issues are not clear to the public. The Government’s policies and development agenda are clearly articulated, well documented and accessible to the public. Also, these civic groups and organisations need to be able to conduct their own objective assessments and analyses of public policy and issues and more importantly, to be used as the basis in engaging the Government in dialogue to work together in achieving a common goal.

It is my humble and respectful opinion that the Government is on the right path in terms of accelerating Guyana’s development. We are 20+ years behind owing to our own peculiar development challenges, historically. We need to now formidably overcome those challenges which includes correcting misinformation being peddled by naysayers and critics who are on a mission to derail Guyana’s accelerated development for the benefit, upliftment and prosperity of all of its people.

Editor, I will close here for now as there were several other concerns raised by the civic groups which space precludes me from addressing in this letter. I shall contribute my thoughts on the others in forthcoming letters.

Sincerely, JC Bhagwandin

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022

5

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

A lackadaisical attitude to the people's business

Dear Editor, It is lamentable and “pure damn nonsense” (borrowing that phrase again) that monies overpaid to Government employees are still outstanding and to be recouped and officials get before the parliamentary oversight body only to be told of the lukewarm efforts being made.

The latest in this sordid tale is the Police Force seeking to recoup overpayment to a number of cops for 2017 and 2018 (GT Mar

8). One of the reasons proffered for this state of affairs was “the pace at which the information was received at the head office to effect those adjustments”.

It was further suggested, as a means of arresting this untenable situation, that information be provided within the stipulated timeframe (that must be stringently enforced and followed), but also “in an informal way via by way of a cell phone call”. How in heavens name can an “in-

formal” manner of conveying pertinent information on a serious matter as adjustments to person's salary be deemed authoritative, legal and binding for actioning? This kind of information, which forms the basis for a legal transaction to be instituted must be documented for the records and subsequent queries which may arise.

Likewise, it is totally unacceptable that former and current officers did see it fit and proper to engage

Grateful for GOAL opportunity Dear Editor, Over the past few days, the Honourable Sonia Parag started a vicious campaign to go into communities and encourage persons to apply for the Guyana Online Academy of Learning scholarships. Let us be reminded that these scholarships come at a cost of nothing for Guyanese, these scholarships cater to young or old and most importantly these scholarships cater for various sectors.

We must give credit where it is due. While they are those that say we have poor internet connectivity issues, never before has Guyanese scholarships been able to pay their dues by working for an NGO or doing community-based service.

As a GOAL recipient for the year 2021, I am grateful for the opportunity and would continue to encourage everyone to sign up for the opportunity being handed to them on a golden platter.

To the Honourable Sonia Parag and the Government of Guyana, thank you for allowing Guyanese to garner certificates, diplomas, degrees, post-grads and Master’s in various programmes.

Thank you for allowing your nation to develop its intellectual capacity.

Sincerely, Tanya Mohabir Meteorologist

and communicate on issues in order to provide cohesive information and answers required. This can be deemed a lackadaisical attitude to the people's business.

It is unbelievable, the occurrences in State agencies which give rise to incompetence at all levels.

Sincerely, Shamshun Mohamed

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022

Page

Foundation ◄

Tuesday’s answers 1) The length of a ribbon is 5/6 metre.

How many 1/6 metre pieces can be cut from the ribbon?

5/6 metre is equal to five 1/6 pieces

= 16.7cm P = 2 (L+B) = 2 (16.7 + 16.7) = 66.67cm

ii) What would be the perimeter of a square made with four of the 1/6 metre pieces in centimetres and inches?

2.5cm = 1 inch, so 66.67cm = 66.67/ 2.5 inches = 26.67 inches

1/6 metre = 0.167m 100 centimetres = 1m 0.167m = 0.167 x 100

By Sr Rose Magdalene

A = LXB = 16.7cm x 16.7cm = 278.89cm2 or 44.62 square inches

iii) Calculate the area and perimeter of the shapes below. Round to 1 decimal place.

In this fun and easy human body science experiment for kids, we’re going to learn how to measure lung capacity.

Materials:

Empty milk jug with cap Water Large bowl Permanent marker Bendable straw Measuring cup

Instructions:

Perimeter of a quadrilateral = 2 (L+B) Area of a quadrilateral = L x B Perimeter (circumference) of a circle = pi x diameter or 2πr Area of a circle = pi x the square of its radius or πr2 Perimeter of a triangle = side + base + side or (a+b+c) Area of a triangle = base x height x ½ pi = 3.14 Shape 1 perimeter = 2 (2.2 + 4) + (3.14 x (4)) = 12.4 +12.56 = 24.96cm = 25cm ( 1 decimal place) Shape 1 area = (2.2 x 4) + (3.14 x (22)) = 8.8 + 12.56 = 21.36cm2 = 21.4cm2 ( 1 decimal place) Shape 2 perimeter = 2 (2 + 4) + (3.14 x (8)) = 37.12cm = 37cm ( 1 decimal place) Shape 2 area = (2 x 4) + (3.14 x (42)) = 8 + 50.24 = 50.24cm2 = 50.2cm2 ( 1 decimal place)

Shape 3 perimeter = 2 (10 + 1) + (3.14 x (2)) + (3.14 x (2)) = 31.42cm = 31.4cm ( 1 decimal place) Shape 3 area = (10 x 1) + (3.14 x (12)) + (3.14 x (12)) = (10) + (3.14) + (3.14) = 16.28 cm2 = 16.3cm2 ( 1 decimal place) Shape 4 perimeter = 2 (1 + 1) + (3.14 x (2)) = 10.28cm = 10.3cm ( 1 decimal place) Shape 4 area = (1 x 1) + (3.14 x (12)) = 1 + 3.14 = 4.14cm2 = 4.1cm2 ( 1 decimal place) Shape 5 perimeter = (2.8 + 4 + 2.8 ) + (3.14 x (4)) = 22.16cm = 22.2cm ( 1 decimal place) Shape 5 area = (base x height x ½) + (3.14 x (12)) = 1 + 3.14 = 4.14cm2 = 4.1cm2 ( 1 decimal place)

Fill the milk jug all the way up with water and put on the cap.

Fill the large bowl about halfway with water.

Turn the milk jug upside down into the bowl of water.

With the mouth of the bottle under the water, carefully remove the cap.

Work one end of the straw up into the mouth of the bottle and hold the other end of the straw securely.

Take a deep breath and slowly blow into the straw.

Your breath will enter the milk jug and push the water out of the jug.

Once you have emptied your lungs, mark the level of water in the jug with the permanent marker.

Lift the jug from the bowl and allow the remaining water to empty out.

Now fill the jug with water up to the mark you just made.

You can now pour this water into the measuring cup to determine your lung capacity.

We are children of Guyana And we love our native land.

With rivers lakes and waterfalls Its mountains tall and grand We will strive to make Guyana.

A land so fair and free One people and one nation One single destiny We are children of Guyana And we proudly our eyes.

When we see the Golden Arrowhead flutter bravely in the shies.

For it tells us we shall ever more be free upon this earth.

God bless you dear Guyana the country of our birth.

How it works:

When you blow through the straw you displace the water in the milk jug. The air in the milk jug will allow you to visualise your lung capacity. By marking the level, you are able to refill the milk jug with water. You can then measure this amount of water to determine your lung capacity.

Make this a science project:

Do a few jumping jacks and try this experiment. Do several minutes of strenuous exercise and then measure your lung capacity. (sciencefun.org)

“The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you” — BB King

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

7

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Horrific De Willem accident

“He tell me ‘sorry’. Wah sorry can do?” – mother calls for justice …“they don’t have respect for the road” – brother on reckless drivers

Dead: 22-year-old Carlito Gobin

Dead: Kiran Rampersaud

By: Devina Samaroo and Amar Persaud

can’t do nothing. Sorry can’t bring back me son,” the grieving mother argued.

The woman contended that the teen driver and his family will have to pay for the

T

he parents of 22-yearold Carlito Gobin – the youngest of the three men who were killed last evening in the tragic accident at De Willem, West Coast Demerara (WCD) – are struggling to come to grips with the manner in which their child lost his life.

Gobin, who would have celebrated his 23rd birthday this Thursday, died on the spot after he was struck down by a speeding motor car driven by an 18-yearold.

The teen driver was reportedly racing with another motor car when he lost control of his vehicle and slammed into three bystanders outside of the Sharmilla Harikissoon Sports Bar. Gobin, who worked at the bar for the past four years, had gone outside to purchase and eat a hotdog when the incident occurred.

Upon receiving news of the accident, the young man’s mother, Hamimoonnall Gobin rushed to the scene where the teen driver began apologising for the chaos he had caused. “He tell me ‘sorry’. Wah sorry can do? Sorry

till at the back of Republic Park till to the [Demerara Harbour] Bridge just fuh get a vehicle to meet home.

When I meet, I couldn’t see he, they did done gone with he…I only saw a photo with the brains on the ground… that’s one thing that can’t come out me head, that photo with he on the ground,” the father cried.

“He head split into two, foot broken, hand broken, ribs broken, he dead on the spot,” the father bemoaned.

“I heard they were sitting down eating a hotdog when this car come and hit him in the air and he fall till by the pharmacy…he pelt the furthest…I need justice for my son… he was sitting down when he get hit down budday, he was sitting down eating. He ain’t even get fuh eat he hotdog and he get hit

Brother, Bisham Rampersaud

suffering they have caused.

“We need justice for my son,” the mother cried.

Imran Ali, the young man’s father, was at work at Republic Park, East Bank Demerara (EBD), when he received news of the accident. He works as a security guard.

“I was working and I started crying. I run out from

down and dead,” the father cried.

Gobin was one of seven children. The family, who currently resides at De Willem, lived in Venezuela for some time and had returned to Guyana in 2012.

The father recalled that his son was a miracle baby.

“He was a seven-month born child…he was deaf and

Parents of Carlito Gobin

dumb…and we bring he in 2012 in Guyana to look after he ears, then he start talk lil bit and he talking funny, not any and everybody understand he…he was a quiet and an easy, easy banna.

He don’t mix and mingle fuh mek problem,” the father explained.

The parents pleaded with road users, especially drivers, to be more cautious on the roadways. “I’m begging them to take their time on the road…is three persons kill one time, nah one, is three,” the father posited.

Meanwhile, the young man’s mother is also a hotdog vendor within the vicinity of the sports bar where the accident occurred. The woman said it will be difficult to continue plying her trade in that area.

The other two persons killed in the accident are 46-year-old Kiran Rampersaud, a fisherman of Zeeburg, WCD; and 44-yearold Ayube Mohamed, also a fisherman of Meten-MeerZorg, WCD. Reports are that the 18-year-old driver and another vehicle were racing along the public road when the young man lost control of the motor car, crashed

into a vehicle that was parked outside of the bar and then slammed into the bystanders.

Two other persons were struck down during the incident and they are currently being treated for their injuries.

The teen driver also received injuries about his body and is currently receiving medical attention under Police guard.

Reckless use of roadways

Bisham Rampersaud, the brother of 46-year-old Kiran Rampersaud, has bemoaned the continued reckless use of the country’s roadways by young drivers.

Rampersaud also known as “Rocky”, a fisherman of Zeeburg, WCD, was standing outside of the Sharmilla Harikissoon Sports Bar when he was struck down and killed by the speeding motor car driven by the 18-year-old lad.

“Them guys that a buy car, buy them book with the car; and them too young to drive pon road…they don’t have respect for the road man…nothing more I can say,” the brother lamented.

“All them big ‘boom boom’ set wah deh in the car

and so, them [Police] should get them out. When that play, you can’t concentrate anyway; none time, at nowhere,” he contended.

Rampersaud was previously married and is said to be a father of one; however, he no longer lives with his family.

Upon receiving news of the accident, the man rushed to the scene to find his brother’s body on the roadway, covered under a sheet.

“I heard some neighbours start call…they said that they hear accident pass on the road, that was 22:10h and abey jumped in a car, we go there and there was a whole set of traffic jam and so.”

“I jumped out of the car, I run to the scene, I see a bedsheet cover the guy, the policeman said ‘you can’t see him’; I said ‘to hell with you this is my brother’ and I removed the sheet, I see is Rocky,” the brother recalled.

The brother described the now dead man as a “very easy going” person. “He nah quarrel with anybody, he very quiet, he nah got enemy, nothing like ah enemy, if you tell he something, he gone walk away.”

Rampersaud is a distant relative of 44-yearold Ayube Mohammed of Meten-Meer-Zorg, WCD – another of the accident victims.

Concerns

Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn has since expressed concerns over the continued reckless usage of the country’s roadways, particularly by “young male” drivers.

According to the Home Affairs Minister, the country had a “successful year” in 2021 as it relates to road fatalities, with a 29 per cent reduction.

TURN TO PAGE 22

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Siege…

F

…of Kyiv or centuries, Russia and the nations of Eastern Europe have resented their reputation as being “backward”.

As your Eyewitness has written, this resentment is one of the biggest motivators for Putin, who’s got a “chip” on his shoulders the size of a log!! But his invasion – which now has him laying siege to Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital, confirms this backwardness since sieges were the emblematic mode of warfare in medieval Europe!!

Which one of us haven’t seen movies of these sieges when the “cities” were surrounded by walls as castles behind moats – into which the citizenry would retreat.

The invading force would camp outside the walls and cut off food supplies to starve the inhabitants. While engaging in all sorts of manoeuvres to literally “smoke” them out!! Catapults were the advanced “weapons of mass destruction” back then and these would be armed with all sorts of missiles – from rocks to burning rags.

Battering rams would be deployed to break down the gates, but the raised drawbridges and burning oil poured from the battlements of the castle by the defenders would discourage that. We’ve even seen this spoofed by Monty Python!!

But the real siege ain’t no joke – especially in modern times – as both the Ukrainians and Russians are discovering right now. Catapults have been replaced by long-range missiles that come raining down from the skies with “pinpoint” accuracy. The only problem is that the head of the missile is sure bigger than a pin and the explosives inside ensure that the damage is more than a “pinprick”!!

Tanks have replaced the battering rams while anti-tank missiles have replaced the hot oil!! But the concept is the same, no? Going all the way even beyond the medieval period the goal would be “castling” the king – in this case, Kyiv’s mayor, the former boxing heavyweight champion Klitschko. He was some tough cookie in the ring and it doesn’t look like he’s softened up since!!

So what’s ahead?? From the very beginning, the Russians under Putin surprisingly didn’t use the “shock and awe” aerial bombardment of the Americans in Iraq to take out the Ukrainians. Guess unlike their brutal tactics with the Chechnyans, they feel closer to the Ukrainians? Or is the threat of NATO reprisals intimidatory? Whatever…Kyiv isn’t going to fall like a “Chicken Kyiv” – which is filled with butter!! The Ukrainians were part of the USSR during WWII and they’re also inspired by the defence of Stalingrad – which became a street-by-street slugfest.

But…can they pull off a Russian-inspired “Operation Uranus” – when a million Russian troops encircled the Germans laying siege to their city of Stalingrad?

And beat them into a pulp?? Let’s see. …of Venezuela loosening?

One advance over the medieval siege – that attempts to strangulate your enemy into submission – are to apply “sanctions”. Here, you prevent others from trading or interacting with an entire country that’s defined as your enemy to starve them out!! Never mind that it’s civilians that suffer the most!! The military usually live high off the hog!! As Burnham used to say back in the day about his tactics against his political enemies – the PPP and WPA – there’re many ways to kill a cat!!

The option, however, is only available to those countries that can ENFORCE the sanctions – which in the modern world meant the only superpower left standing – America!! So we’ve seen sanctions imposed on Cuba since 1960. And more recently, on Venezuela for trampling on the democratic rights of their citizens!! With Venezuela rattling sabres against us since 1962, we didn’t mind.

But the US talks to lift the sanctions against the Venezuelans – to alleviate possible sanctions against Russian oil are worrying.

Whatever happened to democracy?? Or Guaidó? …of the PPP From where your Eyewitness sits, the PPP seems to feel these civil society groups mushrooming all over the place are laying siege to their governance – earned at the ballot boxes.

Paranoia or bitter, rueful history?sssss 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

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Digicel aiming to roll out residential landline service in 1 year …mobile service upgrades underway

By Jarryl Bryan

D

igicel Guyana is looking to start offering residential landline services to customers in the next 12 months. To facilitate this, the telecoms company is currently engaged in talks with the Government of Guyana to iron out outstanding issues, including those related to liberalisation.

This was explained by Digicel Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Gregory Dean, in an interview with the media on Tuesday.

According to Dean, the provision of fixed residential landline services is just one of the several services that Digicel wants to roll out now that the monopoly on the sector has been lifted by liberalisation.

“Both in terms of the residential and business, we are still engaged in discussions with the Government in terms of having adequate spectrum, and also the necessary permissions for offering residential services,” he said.

“In terms of timeline, we’re quite hopeful that most of the information that has been requested has been provided and we are hopeful, by the end of this month or next month, we will have those issues resolved. I would say, once those things are resolved, we can look at within 12 months, having services live for customers.”

Previously, Digicel had been providing limited fixed services to business clients on an Internet Service Provider (ISP) permit. According to him, Digicel wants to expand this and get into the residential side of service.

Feasibility

When asked about the commercial feasibility of the landline service, Dean noted that “landline” is an umbrella term for the host of services Digicel aims to provide, including internet connectivity. He explained that Digicel will roll out the latest technology in providing these services.

“I’m speaking more in terms of residential fibre services. On those fibre services, you can have both internet, you can have content over the fibre, you can have voice calls as well.

So, the service for the customer will be the same, but the technology, obviously, we will use the latest fibre rather than the copper system,” he explained.

Dean also provided an update on the 2000 kilometres sub-sea fibre optic cable it has been laying, that would link Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname and French Guiana, while also providing service to the oil and gas sector. Last year, Digicel had partnered with French company Orange, to lay the French Guiana leg of the cable.

“Currently that project is on track. In terms of where we’re going with that subsea fibre, we’re coming off the North Coast of Trinidad, we’re going to Guyana, Suriname and also French Guiana.

Currently we’re working with multiple partners on this project and we’re still hopeful that we’re definitely going to have it landed in Guyana and operational by early 2024.”

“We’re hoping that with the arrival of the sub-sea fibre, both in terms of improved internet capacity in the country and also, we’ll have redundancy. As you know, Guyana already has two subsea fibres here,” Dean said.

Upgrades

Even as it looks to expand into new areas, Digicel is also working on upgrading its mobile LongTerm Evolution (LTE) services across Guyana. In fact, the CEO explained that billions have been invested in this initiative.

“In terms of the mobile side of the network, we’ve invested $4.5 billion to take LTE across Guyana.

Currently we have 86 per cent population coverage with the LTE. And our intention during this year, is to get to 96 per cent.”

“So, throughout our network, we want to en-

sure we’re able to have LTE service. So, you can have the speeds and the service throughout the network and not just in Georgetown,” Dean explained.

According to Dean, there are specific communities that have had recent issues, which Digicel has been doing upgrades in. These communities include Eteringbang, which has had weather-related connectivity challenges.

“We’ve had challenges with our solar system.

The plan is to upgrade our solar system by the end of this month. So, I think by the end of March, persons in Eteringbang will have the benefit of that upgrade. We do have a temporary solution as well, that would also improve the service. But in terms of a long-term solution, we’re

Digicel CEO Gregory Dean during an interview with local Journalists

aiming to have that completed by the end of this month.”

“We also have service upgrades in Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine.

And those, we’re hoping to have completed by the end of April. So, some of the communities we’re targeting are Mabaruma, Port Kaituma and also Bartica,

but also many of the other communities would benefit,” he said, adding that Digicel is even working on having these upgrades expedited.

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Method of prosecution cannot remain stagnant in evolving society – AG …failed system causes citizens to take law into their own hands

L

egal Affairs Minister and Attorney General, Anil Nandlall has strongly positioned that in an evolving society, the way in which prosecutions are conducted cannot be stagnated if the country intends to upkeep the mandate of protecting the interest of its people.

At the launch of the Certificate in Advocacy and Evidence for Summary Courts Prosecutors Course at the University of Guyana on Monday evening, Nandlall underscored that justice is a multi-faceted instrument.

“In a dynamic and over-dynamic society, the way we do prosecution cannot remain stagnant and static.

Oftentimes, we hear about the rights of the accused, defence counsels and they are fundamental rights central to the administration of justice, that are accorded to the accused person…But justice is not a one-way streak. Justice

Attorney General Anil Nandlall

has two sides. It has the public’s interest, the victim’s interest, the State’s interest – all amalgamated and become the responsibility of the prosecutor to preserve, protect and advance,” said the Attorney General.

He outlined that when prosecutors are ill-equipped, not due to incompetence but simply due to lack of tools or training, then discharging the functions of the office with the degree of rectitude required

is a challenge and the justice system is failed. This trickles down to citizens taking matters into their own hands, causing a descent from civilisation into anarchy.

“Every time a litigant leaves the precincts of a court feeling that he did not have a fair hearing or he did not get due process or justice was not meted out to him, then I daresay that the system would have failed that citizenry. When you multiply that feeling across the length and breadth of any society, then you have a society that feels disenchanted with the system that is funded by their taxpayers’ dollars, that they have established and consented to be governed by, not protecting and safeguarding their interest…When that happens, there is this great and dangerous temptation to take the law into their own hands.”

According to him, cred-

it should be given to the extant pandemic situation for bringing about changes that would not have arisen otherwise, making the discharge of these functions easier.

“We live in an evolving world. We live in a society where expectations change, standards improve. The justice system itself has evolved dramatically from colonial times to now. They way that we’re meeting in the court system has radically transformed, precipitated by a medical catastrophe but have gifted us an opportunity because of its convenience, expediency and the costs saved in the process.”

The Certificate in Advocacy and Evidence for Summary Courts Prosecutors is the product of a joint initiative between the Attorney General’s Chambers and Ministry of Legal Affairs, Government of Guyana (GoG), and the University

of Guyana, to produce professionals who are specially trained to prosecute matters in Guyana’s Magistrates Courts.

The AG underscored that when persons graduate from this programme, they will have a “very solid foundation” in discharging the role they were recruited for. In an environment where many Police prosecutors are untrained in the area of law and have been serving with “distinction”, Nandlall welcomed this discipline in bolstering capacity.

“Based on our colonial history, we inherited a system whereby Police prosecutors have been prosecuting and continue to prosecute in the Magistrate’s Court of our country and indeed, in the West Indies. That system has obtained since Independence.

The Police officers who have served over the decades, have acquitted themselves with distinction in the discharge of

their duties, despite the fact that they were not trained in the study of law.”

“They were essentially laymen with very abbreviated courses of study and they were pitted against seasoned lawyers of great eminence, experience and forensic skill.

They have been able, over the past decades, to serve our criminal justice system well,” he detailed.

Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Yonette Cummings-Edwards also lauded the range of topics being covered under this programme.

Cummings-Edwards stated, “This is an investment in knowledge that would pay huge benefits or huge interests…Prosecutors will benefit tremendously because they will be taught a skill and art that is not generally given or taught. It comes through learning and experience”.

(G12)

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

1 in custody over WCD shooting

Ogle airport drug bust

Women remanded for P cocaine found in mats

olice have arrested a man in relation to an alleged shooting incident that occurred at 6th Street Windsor Forest, West Coast Demerara (WCD).

Reports are that the incident occurred at about 21:30h on Saturday.

According to Police, on Sunday a man who resides in the area reported that he and five co-workers were imbibing at the Windsor Forest Public Road, WCD, when he got into a misunderstanding with another

The mats in which the cocaine was found

T

The women that were arrested and charged

he two women who were nabbed with five mats laced with cocaine at the Eugene F Correia International Airport, Ogle, East Coast Demerara (ECD), have been charged.

The duo appeared at separate courts on Tuesday to answer the trafficking in narcotics charge.

Thirty-two-year-old Malika Scott of Grove, East

Bank Demerara (EBD), appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

There, she pleaded not guilty to the charge, which stated that on March 5, 2022, at the Eugene F Correia International Airport, she had 5.274 kilogrammes of cocaine in her possession for the purpose of trafficking.

She was remanded to

prison and the case will continue on April 5.

Meanwhile, 22-year-old Akata Makeba Garnett of C Field Sophia Squatting Area, Greater Georgetown, appeared at the Sparendaam Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate Rushelle Liverpool She too pleaded not guilty to the trafficking in narcotics charge and was remanded to prison. The case will continue on March 31.

Garnett was destined for Barbados and was subjected to a secondary search of her luggage.

During the search, the five mats were discovered.

She was arrested and escorted to CANU’s Headquarters where the mats were tested for cocaine and returned a positive result. The cocaine was allegedly weighed in her presence and amounted to 5.274 kg with an estimated street value of $5.6 million.

Further investigations led to the arrest of Scott. (G9)

man.

At the time, the suspect was armed with a cutlass and dealt the victim a lash across his chest. The victim claimed that as he was about to retaliate, another male who was with the suspect whipped out a black handgun from his left side waist and pointed it in his direction.

Fearful for his life, the man said he ran for cover behind a canter truck and the two men left the area.

He then called for his rel-

atives, who went to assist him but while there, the two perpetrators returned and opened fire in their direction. This caused them to run into a nearby yard.

Police, acting on information received, made contact with one of the suspects, who was arrested and placed into custody at the Den Amstel Police Station, assisting cops in their probe.

Investigations are ongoing. (G9)

Buxton man charged for illegal gun, threatening behaviour

D

ays after Police in Regional Division 4C, East Coast Demerara (ECD), arrested a man who was attempting to break into a female’s house at Buxton, ECD, he was charged.

On Monday, 39-year-old Questo Barth, a miner of Sideline Dam Buxton, ECD, was charged with the offences of possession of firearm without licence and threatening behaviour.

He appeared at the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Fabyo Azore where the charges were read to him and he pleaded not guilty. He was remanded to prison, and the case was adjourned to April 11.

Police said they responded to a domestic violence report made by a 46-yearold woman of Buxton, ECD. When they arrived at the scene, they arrested the 39-year-old man whom they searched and unearthed a

Questo Barth

revolver in the waist of his pants.

He was also armed with a cutlass and a small axe. The man had earlier violently threatened the complainant and had attempted to enter her premises by breaking windows, in the process of which he had received injuries.

He was arrested and tak-

en to the GPHC, where he was treated under guard for a fractured skull.

Not long before this incident occurred, Police had nabbed a man with a .40 Glock firearm and three matching rounds of ammunition at Buxton, ECD. A search was conducted at his residence at Company Path Road, Buxton, ECD, after a report was made that he had discharged a loaded firearm at a 28-year-old woman.

During the search of the premises, the suspect was caught in his bedroom with the firearm in his hands in an attempt to hide it. Police ranks subsequently managed to retrieve the firearm, which turned out to be a .40 Glock pistol along with three matching rounds of ammunition.

The suspect, along with two female occupants of the house, were later arrested and charged. (G9)

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9,, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Int’l Women’s Day

Be unshakeable in fight for gender equality – First Lady

F

irst Lady of Guyana, Arya Ali on Tuesday voiced the need for women and girls to remain determine and unshakeable in the continued battle for gender equality, in a world where patriarchy and hurdles continue to surface.

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the First Lady said women must persevere despite resistance as only then will their fight end.

“Our fight will be long and brutal. It will continue to face resistance from ev-

First Lady Arya Ali

ery corner where patriarchy raises its head but we must remain steadfast and unshakeable. It is only by doing that will gender equality be achieved and victory guaranteed,” she underscored in her message.

According to her, Guyana’s unprecedented growth that is anticipated ahead makes it even more relevant for leaders to ensure that girls equally benefit from these opportunities.

“With our country experiencing unprecedented growth and rapid transfor-

International Women’s Day

Mohamed’s Enterprise makes donation to Guyana Cancer Foundation

I

n observance of International Women’s Day, Mohamed’s Enterprise made a donation to the Guyana Cancer Foundation to assist women who need financial assistance to offset medical expenses aligned with the deadly disease.

The donation was made in recognition of the relentless contribution by women to society.

“We would also like to salute Miss Bibi Hassan for the work she has been doing in the foundation to spread awareness on the disease for the past decade or more,” Azruddin Mohamed said during the donation.

mation, it is incumbent on us particularly leaders and officials, to ensure that our women and girls are not excluded from those exciting opportunities which are life-changing. Our women and girls require the tools that are necessary to ensure that they are able to fully participate in every sector of our economy and every sphere of life. They must be educated, trained, nurtured, mentored, financed, and supported in every possible way.”

She outlined that while the fifth Sustainable Development Goal speaks to achieving gender equality and empowering women and girls, the “sobering news” is that at the current pace, people will not see gender parity in this lifetime.

Ali contended, “The world economic forum’s Global Gender Gap report reminds us that this will nearly take 100 years for the world to attain gender parity. Women

Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud

face greater hurdles than men in almost all spheres of economic activity, including access to finance, assets, technology, good quality jobs and peer-to-peer networks.

Only 55 per cent of women globally are engaged in the labour market as opposed to 78 per cent of men. Women on average devote one to five more hours a day than men

in paid domestic work and childcare.”

Meanwhile, Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud used the opportunity to share that the time to act and make concerted actions in practicing gender equality is now.

“While women are expected to be the strongest proponents of gender equality by opening opportunities and supporting each other, the gender equality that we strive to achieve will be unattainable without the equal and effective partnership of men,” Dr Persaud articulated.

She added, “While the battle to achieve gender equality might be arduous, we all need to equally commit to actions that every day adds up towards transforming mindsets, attitudes and behaviours that are opposed to the achievement of widespread gender equality.”

(G12)

“Get registered” – PNC Chair to Guyanese on GECOM’s continuous registration

I Azruddin Mohamed handing over the cheque to Bibi Hassan of the Guyana Cancer Foundation

n light of the commencement of Continuous Registration this week by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), the People’s National Congress Reform has called on Guyanese to ensure that they get registered.

PNCR Chairman, Shurwayne Holder expressed during a press conference on Tuesday that GECOM should fulfil the mandate of ensuring that the registration process is conducted in all regions to the full satisfaction of applicants.

“We urge all eligible Guyanese to get registered by visiting the GECOM registration office in their area with the relevant source documents. First time applicants during the 2019 Houseto-House Registration have to now reapply from scratch.

Get registered,” he urged.

This process is necessary process in updating the List of Electors and paving the way for the holding of Local Government Elections (LGE).

GECOM has 28 permanent Registration Offices located in all of the ten administrative regions.

According to GECOM, this registration exercise is of crucial importance to first time applicants, regarded as those persons who would have been 14 to 18 years of age, that were captured during the 2019 House-toHouse Registration.

Any person, who will be 14 years or older by October 31, 2022, and is a Guyanese citizen by birth, descent, naturalisation or is a citizen from a Commonwealth

PNCR Chairman Shurwayne Holder

country living in Guyana for one year or more can apply for registration, providing he or she was never registered before.

They are required to visit the GECOM Registration Office responsible for their area of residence with the relevant source documents: original birth certificate, valid passport, adoption certificate or naturalisation certificate in the case of new registration. The registration exercise will conclude on May 29, 2022.

Over $750 million has been set aside in Budget 2022 for the preparations to be undertaken by GECOM for the hosting of LGE this year. This money is part of an overall $4.1 billion allocation to GECOM in Budget 2022 and was examined and approved by the National Assembly during its consideration of the 2022 Budget Estimates.

Replacement

Meanwhile, Joseph Harmon’s resignation as a

Member of Parliament takes effect this month, but the party still has a list of possible candidates to shortlist before making a final decision.

Holder said that there is a “long list” of persons which can possibly replace Harmon in the National Assembly.

No one has been shortlisted as of now and he could not indicate how many persons are being considered for the position.

“It’s a process. We have to wait until Mr Harmon resigns and we’ll take it from there. As I have said, we have a number of names, a long list. In terms of who goes to Parliament, the Central Executive has got to make that decision. We have to discuss internally and come up with the most suitable person. There will be no discrimination in that process,” the Chairman told the media.

The PNCR has said that it has already engaged other parties in the A Partnership For National Unity (APNU) and its coalition partner, the Alliance For Change on the ascension of PNC Leader Aubrey Norton as the Opposition Leader.

“The party had made a decision that the party leader will become the Leader of the Opposition. This is where we are with that…

It’s a process and much of it is in the public domain already. We had consultations with APNU and AFC. As far as I am concerned, that’s a done deal. We await March 31 when there is a vacancy and then we take it from there,” the Chairman divulged. (G12)

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

14 new COVID-19 cases, 4 in ICU T

he daily detection of positive COVID-19 cases has shown that 14 new cases surfaced as of Tuesday.

This information was provided in the Health Ministry’s dashboard which also showed deaths remaining at 1223.

From just over 200 active cases, a total of four patients are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 26 in institutional isolation, and 211 in home isolation. Another four are in institutional quarantine. Out of the 29,041 males and 34,35 females that contracted the virus, 61,612 have recovered.

Some 546,843 COVID-19 tests have been administered since the virus was detected here.

Regionally, a breakdown showed one new case in Region One (BarimaWaini), two in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), one in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), seven in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), two in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) and one in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni).

There were no increases in Regions Five (MahaicaBerbice), Eight (PotaroSiparuni), Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo)

GUYANA COVID-19 DASHBOARD MARCH 8, 2022 UPDATE

NUMBER OF NEW CASES

14

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL ISOLATION

26

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN HOME ISOLATION

211

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN COVID-19 ICU

5

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL QUARANTINE

4

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (FEMALES)

34,035

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (MALES)

29,041

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES IN GUYANA SINCE 2020

63,076

NUMBER OF RECOVERED CASES

61,612

TOTAL 1st DOSE VACCINATED FULLY IMMUNISED TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES SINCE MARCH 2020 REGION 1

2517

REGION 2

2477

REGION 3

8033

REGION 4

31,178

REGION 5

2372

REGION 6

5720

REGION 7

2422

REGION 8

887

REGION 9

4005

REGION 10

3465

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

432,381 328,273 1223

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.

and 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice).

Most recent vaccination statistics indicate that 434,037 adults or 84.6 per cent have taken their first dose; when compared to 330,729 or 64.5 per cent second dose coverage.

In the 12 to 17 age group, 33,703 or 46.2 per cent took their first dose and 24,433 or 33.5 per cent have taken their second shot.

Booster doses account 52,688 jabs – spanning 1080 in Region One; 2539 in Region Two; 7317 in Region Three; 26,262 in Region Four; 3282 in Region Five; 8690 in Region Six; 566 in Region Seven; 427 in Region Eight; 1947 in Region Nine; and 578 in Region 10.

All Guyanese are reminded to observe the protocols of the COVID-19

emergency measures which emphasise the need for correct and consistent use of a face mask when leaving your home; the importance of maintaining the six feet physical distance from others; and the need for good hand hygiene.

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 Globally, almost 446.5 million people have tested positive for the virus and six million have died. In the Americas, more than 148 million confirmed cases have been reported with over 2.64 million deaths. (G12)

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

40% of 10,000 Govt-distributed house lots awarded solely to women …not as a wife, not as a co-applicant, not as a partner, but in their own right – Rodrigues

Minister within the Housing Ministry, Susan Rodrigues

T

uesday marked International Women’s Day and it was, therefore, fitting that it was revealed that 40 per cent of house lots distributed in the People’s Progressive Party/Civic’s first year in office, were allocated solely to women, in their own right.

This was revealed when Minister with-

in the Housing and Water Ministry, Susan Rodrigues, made an appearance on a local radio programme. She underscored the importance of what was, in fact, a transfer of wealth.

“In certain parts of the world and at one point in our history, women were not allowed to own property. So, as a minister that

is responsible for transferring property, transferring wealth to our people, I was so encouraged and I have to speak about our tremendous track record in the short time that we’ve been in office.

“I checked, because it’s International Women’s Day. And of the 10,000 house lots that we have distributed so far, we’ve exceeded that now, but in our first year, 2021, out of the 10,000, just about 4000 went to women in their own right, meaning women whose application was in their name alone,” she said.

“Not a wife, not a co-applicant or a partner, but women in their own right who had their own application, who are the sole owner of their new lot that they will, hopefully, go on to build their home.”

“That is a tremendous achievement for those 4000 women….it’s a massive transfer of wealth to these women, it’s empowering, I’m sure,” Rodrigues said.

TURN TO PAGE 25

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Farmers upset as millers reduce price for tonne of rice …world market determines price – millers

Rice farmers blocking the road on Tuesday By: Andrew Carmichael

S

cores of rice farmers from Black Bush Polder, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), on Tuesday took to the streets in protest over an apparent decision taken by millers to decrease the amount they pay per tonne of rice.

The two rice millers operating in the area reduced the price being offered per tonne of rice from $70,000 per tonne to $65,000 per tonne.

The farmers blocked roads, cutting off communities in their protest action.

On Sunday the mills were paying the higher price but on Monday when farmers took their paddy to the mills, they were offered $5000 less per tonne.

The rice farmers gathered outside of Rayaadul Hakh Rice Industries at Lesbeholden and another at Amazonia Rice Investment Inc at Johanna.

They are demanding more for their paddy and are refusing to accept what the millers are offering.

The millers, however, said that it is the world market that determines how much they can pay for paddy.

But the farmers are furious, saying that for the current crop, their expenses were much higher than previously, with the cost for manure, fertiliser, labour and lad preparation all being increased.

The price to rent land has moved upwards also.

For 15 acres which the farmers refer to as a plot of land, rental moved from $300,000 to $500,000.

The farmers are calling on governmental intervention.

Many were forced to abandon their vehicles and

walk home. Rice farmers taking their paddy from the fields to dry it also could not pass.

Demanding meeting

Regional Chairman David Armogan met with the farmers who were demanding that the Agriculture Minister meet with them. He told them that the Agriculture Minister was meeting with millers and they will be informed later of what came out of that meeting.

At Lesbeholden, the road was blocked, shutting off a part of that polder and the entire Mibicuri.

One farmer who cultivates 380 acres noted that while the price being offered to them has dropped, the investment he made tells a different story.

According to Ragindra Pidanha, the price of fertiliser raised to $11,000 a bag. He pointed out that during the last crop he was paying $6000 a bag for fertiliser but during the crop, it gradually raised to $8000 and for the current crop he paid $11,000 for bag.

Devindra Tooteram, who has 30 acres under cultivation, told this publication that insecticides that he used jumped from $5500 per bottle to $7500 per bottle.

Meanwhile, another rice farmer, Devendra Suki, who cultivates 650 acres, explained that the reduction in price being offered is the profit that he makes as a rice farmer.

“They were paying $70,000 and all two mills made one drop yesterday morning to $65,000. Right now, we are losing $300,000 on every 15 acres. That is the money we should make for ourselves,” he said.

TURN TO PAGE 23

21

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

22 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

“He tell me ‘sorry’...

FROM PAGE 7

The mangled car which crashed into the shop leaving three persons dead

Damage to the shop into which the car crashed

But based on the statistics so far this year, Minister Benn said “we appear to have already be in trouble at the rate we’re going”.

Only a few days ago, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill issued a statement expressing concerns at the alarming rate

of road fatalities for the year.

For the year 2021, 99 persons were killed when compared with 139 persons for 2020. The 2021 results showed a 29 per cent reduction when compared to 2020.

The “vulnerable class” of road users (pedal cyclists, mo-

tor cyclists and pedestrians) accounted for 67.7 per cent of the total deaths in 2021 while in 2020, they accounted for 79.9 per cent of the total deaths.

Minister Edghill had disclosed that from the data retrieved from the Guyana

Police Force (GPF), it was found that pedal and motor cyclists combined accounted for 37.4 per cent of the deaths in 2021 and 56.1 per cent in 2020.

Comparative data has shown that as of March 3, 2022, 15 persons were killed on the roadways, as a result of 14 accidents, when compared with the same period for 2021, when 20 persons died from 19

accidents.

“What is significantly alarming, is that in 2021, 14 of the 20 persons killed at that period were the most vulnerable classes of road users (two pedal cyclists, eight motor cyclists and four pedestrians).

While at March 3, 2022, of the 15 killed, the vulnerable classes accounted for seven (two pedal cyclists, three motor cyclists, two pedestrians),”

Minister Edghill had noted.

The Government official noted too that he and his Cabinet colleagues will relook at the current laws and examine ways in which they can ensure “stricter controls, be it the training/re-training of drivers/riders, higher fines or stiffer penalties and a studied approach for the introduction of a demerit system.”

NEWS

23

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Farmers upset as millers reduce...

Many of the farmers credit their farming material from the miller during the crop and the money is deducted when they take their paddy to be sold while some farmers take loans from financial institutions to go into the crop.

A check with one retailer revealed that fertiliser rose from $5000 to $10,500 per bag. Manure is $10,600 per bag. The price for seed paddy moved from $6000 to $10,000 per bag.

Farmers also say they have to invest $100,000 in diesel to prepare each plot of land, totalling 15 acres.

Farmers who do not have the relevant equipment have an additional cost of $300,000 to prepare each 15-acre plot.

Currently, farmers are reaping an average of 600 bags of paddy from a 15-acre plot of land.

Barbara Felix, who cul-

FROM PAGE 20

Persons forced to park their vehicles and walk home after the road was blocked by protesting farmers

tivates a plot at Johanna, said it is impossible for her to make a living at the current price she has to pay to rent land. She cultivates one plot of land and pays half a mil-

lion for rental.

She said they are being robbed by the millers.

According to Felix, when the rice is graded and there is coloured or broken rice, it is

separated and the farmer is only paid for the perfect grain.

“We are not getting that.

They are still keeping it and not paying us for it. They

should give us that rice; it belongs to us so that we can sell that and get back some more money. It is very unfair, she said.”

Meanwhile, the Private

Sector Commission is expected to meet today with the Guyana Rice Exporters and Millers Association to hold discussions on the rice industry.

24 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Over 150 fire hydrants replaced across Georgetown A

total of 151 fire hydrants have been replaced across the city to aid the Guyana Fire Service in the execution of its duties.

The repair and rehabil-

itation of the hydrants is a direct instruction from President Dr Irfaan Ali. Acting Chief Fire Officer Gregory Wickham, on the side lines of an event on Tuesday, said the project

would also be taken to other parts of Guyana.

“We are continuously doing inspections of these hydrants. Also, we are doing mapping in other areas that are not fitted out with hydrants – Region 10, Region Six and Region Three, because the intention is that we should have hydrants within those areas also,” Wickham is quoted by the Department of Public Information (DPI) as saying.

There are more than 600 fire hydrants in Georgetown.

Brass Aluminium & Cast Iron Foundry Limited (BACIF) has been contract-

ed to undertake the replacement and rehabilitation of the hydrants.

Budget 2022 has allotted $100 million for the installation of fire hydrants to ensure there is adequate water supply in the event of a fire.

Since taking office, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government has heavily invested in building the capacity of the Guyana Fire Service. Some of the investments include the acquisition of fire tenders and other firefighting equipment, along with training and establishment of fire stations in hinterland regions.

NEWS

25

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Celebrate the contributions women make – Caricom SG

Caricom Secretary General, Dr Carla Barnett

C

aricom Secretary General, Dr Carla Barnett, in a message on Tuesday to mark International Women’s Day 2022, said it was an honour and a pleasure for her to celebrate Caribbean women and girls.

She said: “It is a distinct honour and pleasure for me to celebrate our women and girls across the Caribbean Community on International Women’s Day. “Today is an opportunity to celebrate the important contributions and tireless service that women around the world give every day at home, in their communities and beyond, and in every sphere of life.

“We celebrate their many achievements and recognise the progress that has been made towards gender equality, while acknowledging that there

is still much more work to be done. International Women’s Day provides an important platform to highlight the challenges women face in realising their full human rights, and to engage men and boys as champions for gender equality.

“The global theme for this year’s observance is “Gender Equality Today For A Sustainable Tomorrow”. It recognises the contribution of women and girls around the world who are leading the charge on climate change adaptation, mitigation and response, to build a more sustainable future for all.

Achieving gender equality in the context of the climate crisis and disaster risk reduction is one of the urgent global challenges of the 21st Century.” (Excerpt from Nation News)

40% of 10,000 Govt-distributed...

FROM PAGE 19

According to the Minister, these women now have some amount of financial independence and can make self-determining decisions for themselves, instead of depending on someone else to make life-altering decisions for them.

Nor are these 4000 women the only women who would benefit from homeownership, since there are thousands more who have applied for a house lot at the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) as co-applicants with their spouse or a family member.

With the delivery of Budget 2022 back in February, the Government of Guyana is aiming to accelerate an already robust housing plan that will include the distribution of 15,000 house lots for the year.

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal had previously told Guyana Times that the 2022 plans include the distribution of 15,000 house lots as well

as the continuation of the home improvement and subsidy programme.

Of the $552 billion in the Budget, $12.4 billion had been allocated for the housing sector. This figure had included money to build out the infrastructure required to sustain these house lots, including roads.

Since taking office, the PPP/C Government has made it clear that it was aiming to fulfil its manifesto promise of distributing 50,000 house lots over the next five years. The Housing Ministry has also said it would work with other State agencies to make more land available for housing development.

These agencies include the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL); the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC) and the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo).

Land acquisition for housing development would be pursued. (G3)

26

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS Oil surges as US bans Russian crude, Britain launches phase-out

O

il prices settled around 4 per cent higher on Tuesday as the United States banned Russian oil imports and Britain said it will phase them out by year end, decisions that are expected to further disrupt the global energy market as Russia is the second-largest exporter of crude.

Oil prices have surged more than 30 per cent since Russia invaded Ukraine, and the United States and other countries imposed a raft of sanctions. The sanctions had already upended Russian oil and gas exports even before the ban, as traders sought to avoid running afoul of future sanctions.

US President Joe Biden announced a ban on Russian oil and other energy imports. Britain said it will phase out the import of Russian oil and oil products by the end of 2022, giving the market and businesses time to find alternatives.

Brent crude futures settled at US$127.98 a barrel, 3.9 per cent higher, while US crude futures settled at US$123.70 a barrel, a 3.60 per cent increase.

Russia ships 7 million to 8 million barrels per day of crude and fuel to global markets.

The United States imports very little oil from Russia, yet the ban is "one more source of supply loss," said Matt Smith, lead oil analyst at Kpler.

"It's just one more escalation in a series of events that have pushed crude and product prices higher," Smith added.

The import bans could send global oil prices up to US$200 a barrel, analysts at Oslo-based consultancy Rystad Energy said.

Before the US ban was announced, Goldman Sachs had raised its Brent forecast for 2022 to US$135 from US$98 and its 2023 outlook to US$115 a barrel from US$105, saying the world economy could face the "largest energy supply shocks ever" because of Russia's key role.

"How high can oil prices go? Pick a number, this is a market in disarray," Mike Tran, analyst at RBC Capital Markets, said in a note early on Tuesday.

Many buyers were already avoiding Russian oil. Shell PLC said it would stop all spot purchases of Russian crude after drawing criticism for a purchase made on March 4.

Some market watchers said oil's rally was overdone, and crude briefly gave up most gains around an hour before settlement.

Traders attributed the retreat to reports about Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky no longer pressing for NATO membership.

Ukraine's pursuit of a NATO membership has been a key point of contention in negotiations with Russia.

Dimming expectations for an imminent return of Iranian crude to global markets have added upward pressure on prices as talks have slowed down between Tehran and world powers.

Supply disruptions come as inventories continue to fall worldwide. Five analysts polled by Reuters estimated on average that US crude stockpiles decreased by about 700,000 barrels in the week to March 4.

The poll was conducted before weekly inventory reports from the American Petroleum Institute on Tuesday and the US Energy Information Administration today.

Media reports about the International Energy Agency's readiness to release more oil from emergency stockpiles had no impact on the rally.

"Ultimately, the IEA is not announcing significant action," said Craig Erlam, senior market analyst at OANDA. "In this market, words are not going to have an impact." (Excerpt from Reuters)

Ukrainians flee besieged city of Sumy through “humanitarian corridor”

U

krainian civilians and foreign students clutching bags and rucksacks fled the besieged city of Sumy in buses and cars on Tuesday in the first successful "humanitarian corridor" opened since Russia's invasion.

Ukraine accused Russian forces of shelling one evacuation route - from Mariupol in southern Ukraine - but Sumy's regional governor said a temporary ceasefire had held long enough for at least two convoys of vehicles to leave the northeastern city.

The first evacuation convoy met a column of more than 160 Russian military vehicles coming towards them on the road, said Sumy

B

cape Russia's shelling and bombardment of cities and towns.

"Brazil's position is clear... We are on the side of world peace," Franca told a news conference in Lisbon when asked if he condemned the invasion.

"We think we can reach that (peace)... by helping to find a way out (of the war), not by taking sides."

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who visited Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow shortly before the inva-

Governor Dmytro Zhyvytsky in televised comments.

"Our column stopped on the side of the road and let the vehicles through, then continued on its path," he said.

People stood patiently on

the snowy ground in Sumy, waiting for the evacuation buses. Many had packed as many belongings as they could into a single bag, and some had their children with them. All were wrapped in warm winter clothes.

Sydney floods: 2 killed and thousands forced to evacuate

T

ens of thousands of Sydney residents have been told to evacuate their homes as floods ravage eastern Australia.

In the past fortnight, New South Wales (NSW) and Queensland have been pummelled by heavy downpours that have caused floods and killed 20 people.

The threat has now intensified in Sydney, which has been hit by widespread flash-flooding.

Two bodies - believed to be of a woman, 67, and her son, 34 - were found in a Sydney canal on Tuesday.

Police said their deaths would be investigated, but noted the canal had risen

Authorities warn rain is likely to cause more flooding

"from ankle-deep to above neck height in a matter of minutes".

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said 40,000 residents in the state had been ordered to evacuate, and another 20,000 people were on

standby.

He added that a dam in the suburb of Manly had begun to spill, and a flooded river was threatening lives in the city's southwest.

There was also a "substantial catastrophe" in the state's

north, where more than 800 people had been placed in temporary accommodation.

The State Emergency Service said more than 2500 people had requested help in the past 24 hours. Australian Defence Force soldiers have also been deployed.

"The best thing you can do right across our state is follow those instructions and please do not drive through flood waters," Perrottet said.

He warned flash-flooding was likely to continue to today.

Experts say the flooding emergency has been worsened by climate change and a La Niña weather phenomenon.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Venezuela, US confirm talks amid Russia crisis, Maduro says work agenda agreed

V

enezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro says he has agreed on an agenda for future talks with United States officials after meeting a delegation from Washington over the weekend, the first high-level discussions between the two countries in years.

“Last Saturday night a delegation from the

Brazil won't take sides over Russia's invasion of Ukraine – Foreign Minister razil will not take sides over Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Foreign Minister Carlos Franca said on Tuesday, adding its stance was one of "impartiality", not "indifference", and that it sought peace.

The invasion has triggered one of the fastest refugees crises of modern times, the United Nations says, with more than two million Ukrainians, mostly women and children, fleeing in just 13 days into the European Union to es-

Buses wait during evacuations amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine out of Sumy, March 8, 2022 in this still image obtained from handout video

Around 1000 foreign students were among the first wave of evacuees, Zhyvytsky said.

Some civilians were also evacuated from the town of Irpin near the capital Kyiv.

There were no reports of them coming under fire in Irpin, two days after Reuters witnesses said residents trying to flee were caught in Russian shelling.

But Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oleg Nikolenko said the evacuation route from Mariupol had been shelled and local officials said people had been unable to leave the city, which has been under fire without water or power for over a week.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

sion, angered Western allies by saying he was "in solidarity with Russia" without elaborating.

Bolsonaro, a far-right populist, has also noted that Russian fertilisers were crucial for Brazil's giant agribusiness sector.

Last month he scolded his Vice President Hamilton Mourao for condemning Russia's invasion and said that in Brazil only the President could speak about a crisis in eastern Europe. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has been among the few international figures to assure Russian President Vladimir Putin of his "strong support" in the wake of the invasion [File:Reuters]

Government of the United States of America arrived in Venezuela, I received it here at the presidential palace,” Maduro said in a broadcast on State media on Monday.

“We had a meeting, I could describe it as respectful, cordial, very diplomatic,” he added.

The meeting in the capital, Caracas, lasted two hours, he said, without specifying the topics discussed or who the US delegates were.

The White House said on Monday the purpose of the trip was to discuss a num-

ber of issues, including “energy security” and the cases of nine US citizens who are in prison in Venezuela.

“Obviously, we’re going to continue to do everything we can to bring anyone who is detained in Venezuela or any other part of the world home, but they happen through different tracks,” Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters. “They’re all a part of the conversation with Venezuela writ large, but not at the same time,” she said.

The trip to Caracas

comes as Washington seeks to isolate Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.

Maduro, with whom the US broke off relations in 2019, has been among the few international figures to assure Russian President Vladimir Putin of his “strong support” in the wake of the invasion.

The US has imposed a battery of sanctions on Caracas in a bid to force Maduro from power, including a 2019 measure that prevents Venezuela from trading its crude oil – which accounted for 96 per cent of the country’s revenues – on the US market.

The White House has indicated it is examining how to reduce Russian oil imports without harming US consumers and while maintaining global supply.

Since breaking off diplomatic relations with Caracas in 2019, Washington has refused to deal with the Maduro government, instead treating Opposition Leader Juan Guaidó as Venezuela’s legitimate president.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022

27

DAILY HOROSCOPES

ARCHIE

(March 21-April 19)

Call on reliable people, and you'll get things done quickly. Forming better relationships with like-minded individuals will encourage more input and progress.

Romance and self-improvement are featured. Now's the time to get things done!

Keep your head down, avoid confrontations and put more effort into making physical changes. Be secretive about your plans until you are confident you can reach your goal.

DILBERT

(April 20-May 20) Work alone and avoid interference.

Distance yourself from people harboring grandiose ideas with little to back them.

Take a practical, intelligent approach to what you are trying to achieve.

(May 21-June 20) Do it yourself if you want something done. Don't rely on others to come through for you. It's up to you to gather information and physically take control of whatever situation you face.

PEANUTS

(June 21-July 22) Take care of meaningful relationships. How you treat others reflects how you expect others to treat you. Choose peace and love over discord. Romance is encouraged. Be a good listener.

(July 23-Aug. 22) Refuse to let your emotions get in the way of a good decision. Don't let uncertainty cause you to make an unnecessary move. Stand by and see what unfolds. You'll find your way.

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Touch base with people who bring out the best in you and make you think.

Network, socialize and discuss your intentions and plans. Personal and home improvements will brighten your day.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23) Concentrate on something that motivates you to do things differently.

Explore the possibilities, but stick to a budget you can afford. Emotional spending will set you back.

SUDOKU (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

Disregard temptation. Discipline and practicality will take you where you want to go. Set your sights on personal goals and improvements that will lift your spirits. Spend time with a loved one.

Don't spend money foolishly. You can't buy love or impress people with lavishness. Focus on things you can do to look and feel great. Confusion and uncertainty will lead to mistakes.

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Spend more time with the people you love in the comfort of your home. An upgrade will improve your lifestyle and encourage you to follow through with personal plans. Share your intentions.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Taking nature walks and getting back to basics will expand your mind and encourage success. Knowing what you want will help you map out a path that takes you where you want to go.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

28

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Embiid scores 43 points as 76ers down struggling Bulls, Jokic records 18th triple-double T

he Philadelphia 76ers maintained their perfect record with James Harden in the side with a 121-106 win over the slumping Chicago Bulls on Monday.

Joel Embiid scored 43 points with 14 rebounds while Harden had 16 points, eight rebounds and 14 assists as the 76ers made it six wins from their past seven games.

The 76ers are also 5-0 with Harden in the side, while the Bulls have lost their past five games.

Embiid recorded his 10th 40-plus point game this season,

along with his 10th game this season with 40 or more points and 10 or more rebounds.

The 76ers centre also had his fourth quarter for the season with at least 15 points and five rebounds, which is an NBA high.

For the Bulls, All-Star DeMar DeRozan had 23 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists, while Zach LaVine added 24 points.

Jokic records 18th triple-double

Nikola Jokic backed up Sunday’s 46-point haul with another triple-double as the Denver Nuggets defeated the short-handed Golden State Warriors 131-124. Jokic had his 18th triple-double of the season by the third quarter and finished with 32 points, 15 rebounds, and 13 assists. The Warriors, who rested Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Andrew Wiggins in the catch-up game, have lost nine of their past

11 games.

Luka Doncic scored 35 points, with 16 rebounds and seven assists in a tense game, where the All-Star received a technical foul, as the Dallas Mavericks won 111-103 over the Utah Jazz.

Doncic’s game marked his third this season where he has scored 35 or more points and 15 or more rebounds, with Oscar Robertson the only other guard

to achieve the feat in a single season.

Victor Oladipo returned for the first time since April last year for the Miami Heat, scoring 11 points in 15 minutes as they beat the Houston

Rockets 123-106, while top draft pick Cade Cunningham (28 points and 10 assists) lifted the Detroit Pistons to an overtime win over the Atlanta Hawks 113-110.

Spurs equal record as Lakers slump

San Antonio Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich tied Don Nelson’s all-time NBA record for most coaching wins (1335) as they won 117-110 over the Los Angeles Lakers without LeBron James. Russell Westbrook struggled in James’ absence, with 17 points shooting five-of-14 from the field with five turnovers.

(Sportsmax)

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

29

Space Gym 2.0 unveils new location at Mandela Avenue mall B

… gym to be powered by Life Fitness equipment

razilian-owned Space Gym – which is currently located at the Status Hotel on Croal Street,

vices that include aerobics, strength and flexibility training, bodybuilding, powerlifting, weightlifting, Cross-Fit

Part of the area set up for Cross Fit training

Georgetown – has unveiled its newest location at the Royal Orchid Garden Hotel and Mall located on Mandela Avenue, Georgetown.

The new multimillion-dollar state-of-the-art facility is pegged for opening in April 2022. Space Gym 2.0 offers fitness guidance and ser-

and group classes.

Since its establishment in 2016, the gym has built a brand that represents quality fitness and has seen its membership grow to in excess of 1000 members and counting. As a result of the gym’s continued growth and with a vision of providing the

best quality gym experience to our members, a decision was made to expand the gym by adding a larger and more state-of-the-art facility location.

The gym is expected to be a major upgrade from the current location, with more equipment, more modern amenities and features, and lots of additional space covering 15,000 sq ft and will be powered by the Life Fitness equipment brand.

The new state-of-the-art gym will aim to provide services for all ages and both genders. Services will include a variety of fitness equipment workout, group classes, personal training programmes, yoga and nutrition. In addition to providing these services, Space Gym will also be a retailer of exclusive fitness products and select food items.

The gym will carry out its day-to-day operations primarily on membership

CWI unveils FanCraze and Crictos.com as new Test & NFT partners of the West Indies

C

ricket West Indies (CWI) on Tuesday announced FanCraze and its Crictos.com digital collectibles programme as new partners of the West Indies Test team and CWI. The Crictos.com branding will appear on the playing shirts of the West Indies men’s team throughout the Apex Test series between the West Indies and England which started on Tuesday, March 8, at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua.

CWI and FanCraze have signed a multi-year partnership to develop a NonFungible Token (NFT) programme and metaverse products featuring the West Indies players and archive.

Crictos launched in 2021 as the digital collectibles programme partner of the International Cricket Council (ICC). The partnership signifies the start of developing the official digital collectibles for the West Indies teams featuring current players and key archive moments. This will give West Indies fans all around the world the chance to own pieces of West Indies cricketing history through innovative blockchain technology, which will also provide more opportunities for digital trading cards, games ,and experiences based on the West Indies male and female play-

ers.

In addition to the Test shirt, the long-term partnership will see FanCraze branding, links, and communication appear on key pitch and broadcast assets for West Indies home internationals and throughout CWI’s social and website fan platforms.

“We are excited to welcome FanCraze as a new partner for Cricket West Indies and the West Indies teams, especially with FanCraze’s Crictos NFT branding to appear on the West Indies Test shirt for the forthcoming Apex series,” said CWI’s Commercial Director, Dominic Warne.

“This partnership goes far beyond the pitch and will see CWI and FanCraze combine to build archive and trading card NFT products using leading blockchain tech-

nology and take West Indies cricket into the fast-developing metaverse. Not only will the partnership create the chance for fans around the world to own famous pieces of our amazing West Indies cricket history, it will provide significant investment into cricket in the Caribbean and contribute to the players’ pool for years to come.”

FanCraze Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Anshum Bhambri remarked: “We are very proud to partner with Cricket West Indies and bring to life NFTs representing the most passionate and naturally-gifted cricketers the world has ever seen. NFTs are fast becoming a movement and are enabling a direct relationship between all types of IP owners and their fans. NFTs represent culture and there is no better team than the West Indies to take cricket into the metaverse. FanCraze is building an experience that would enable fans to collect CWI digital assets, engage with play-to-earn games and utilities, and own digital land.”

The Apex Test series is being contested for the newly-minted Richards-Botham trophy, which was officially unveiled on Sunday by icons Sir Vivian Richards and Lord Ian Botham. The first Test runs March 8-12 in Antigua. The second Apex Test will be played at Kensington Oval, Barbados from March 16-20, with the climax in the third Apex Test at the Grenada National Stadium, Grenada on March 24-28. (Windies Cricket)

and appointment basis. All classes and personal training sessions will be scheduled in advance, but the gym itself will be open seven days a week – Monday to Friday 05:00h to 22:00h (5am to 10pm); Saturdays 06:00h to 18:00h (6am to 6pm) and Sundays and holidays 08:00h to 16:00h (8am to 4pm).

Space 2.0 will face a

challenging situation in the future competitive market in the Greater Georgetown area. Therefore, it is imperative for the facility to offer quality exercise equipment and nutritional support ser-

vices which create a combination like no other facility in this region. In addition, we will offer other services low in cost to compete in the market.

Some of the key elements include the following:

reception desk, self-service water/drink area, locker, rooms, waiting/relaxation area with tv screens, treadmill stations, weight area, yoga/Pilates area, elliptical/ bicycle area and health bar.

Space Gym is led by its founder Sergio Sousa Matos, who is an astute businessman with over 20 years’ experience. Matos opened his first gym in 2016 and has a personal passion for health and fitness. Lucas Matos and Amanda Matos, the children of the founder, are both shareholders/directors of the business and assist with the general management and operations of Space Gym.

30 GBTI GCC Ladies to compete in Big Apple International Indoor Championships WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

T

The GBTI GCC Ladies are set for international action this weekend

he Georgetown Cricket Club’s senior female hockey team, the GBTI GCC Ladies, are scheduled to compete in the upcoming Big Apple International Indoor Championships scheduled for the weekend of March 1213.

The club side, which has been the local national champions for several years, has also enjoyed great success against regional teams as multiple winners of the Diamond Mineral Water Indoor Festival here in Guyana.

The team comprise several national players and include players from the Under-16 team that twice visited Trinidad prior to the COVID pandemic outbreak, playing unbeaten in the Paragon Indoor

Championships. Although a few of the club’s strong players were unavailable owing to other personal commitments, Coach Philip Fernandes is confident that the team would be able to make a good showing. Fernandes indicated that the USA has a very strong female hockey programme, as the country has close to 1.5 million players, most of whom are female.

The competition usually features teams from both the USA and Canada with occasional entrants from Europe and this year Guyana will be bringing a Caribbean flair to the ladies’ division.

The GBTI GCC Ladies will compete in pool #2 and face the Sharks in their opening match on Saturday at 09:40h (09:40am). They return to the floor later that

same day to take on NE Premier and then Team Red, which is expected to be a USA national selection. The results of these matches will determine the schedule for the following day.

Matches will all be played at the University of Toronto’s Athletic Centre.

The full Guyana squad reads: 1. Abosaide Cadogan 2. Alysa Xavier 3.

Gabriella Xavier (Captain) 4. Sarah Klautky 5. Makeda Harding 6. Madison Fernandes 7. Mickelly Rahaman 8. Kirsten Gomes 9. Kerensa Fernandes 10. Samantha Fernandes 11. Carina Moller 12. Aliyah Gordon Coach: Philip Fernandes

Premier League suspends McKinnon optimistic about 1st outdoor agreement with Russian tournament since pandemic broadcast partner, donates £1M to Ukraine

Director of Shooting, Ryan McKinnon

D

espite on-and-off torrential rainfall, Archery Guyana took their bows and arrows to the National Stadium, Providence last Sunday, as they commenced their highly-anticipated Outdoor Championships.

This has been the first such outdoor championship that Archery Guyana has been able to stage since the pandemic hit local shores in 2020.

Although the turnout was less than expected, Director of Shooting, Ryan McKinnon appreciated the commencement of the tournament, as it gave the opportunity to test competitors and new structures.

“It’s good to have the archers come out and shoot this event, especially using this facility and, of course, using our newly-certified judges as part of the organisational committee and movement towards more efficient and better structure of the sport itself,” said McKinnon, who is one of Guyana’s certified national judges.

Going further, McKinnon was able to pick

up on the expected slackoff in performances, citing a lack of facilities. However, he had a positive outlook on the Association being able to access facilities in the future.

On the matter of the lack in performances, he shared, “Obviously, it’s a perishable skill. So, because of the long layoff, we see, 1) a very small turnout in terms of members actually participating in this event, but even the more senior members, because of the inability to get access to outdoor

I mean, this country is a very large country, we should have some new facilities being put forward and developed. But, given that we have already existing facilities, fields and school grounds, I think that it’s imperative we tap into those areas. Even auditoriums and certain places for the indoor.”

“Coming out of the pandemic and everything from the last two years, I think that’s where we’re going to be able to benefit, coming down the next months and

McKinnon touched on how its contributions would assist.

“That is a key element in any sport. Some of the big sports have massive entities taking part in it and we’re happy to have Seven Seas on board to sponsor both Indoor and Outdoor Championships for 2021.”

McKinnon further stated, “Oasis is our official beverage and water supplier. Those things take off especially for the athletes; people see us shooting bows and think it’s an

A snippet of the outdoor archery competition at the National Stadium, Providence on Sunday (Jemima Holmes photo)

facilities to shoot – that obviously impacted their performances here today.”

The Shooting Director for Sunday’s Outdoor Championships explained, “Getting facilities and permission to use facilities,

years as a country, for the development of the sport,” he went on to add.

Turning his attention to sponsor Seven Seas’ support, which it extended for both the Indoor and Outdoor Championships,

easy thing, but when you have to come out here in the hot sun or the rain, it takes some toll on the body to continue.”

“So, sponsorship is key, nourishment is key,” he concluded.

T

he Premier League has suspended its broadcast agreement with Russia following the country’s invasion of Ukraine.

Richard Masters, the English top flight’s chief ex-

Emergency Committee (DEC) to deliver humanitarian aid directly to those in need.”

The Premier League showed support for Ukraine over the weekend, with all 20 club captains wearing

ecutive, revealed last week the current arrangements were “under review”.

During a shareholders’ meeting of all 20 top-flight clubs on Tuesday, it was unanimously decided the league would sever ties with broadcast partner Rambler (Okko Sport).

The move will take immediate effect, meaning Thursday’s four matches will not be aired in Russia.

In a statement released on its official website on Tuesday, the Premier League also announced £1 million will be donated to support the people of Ukraine.

The statement added: “The League strongly condemns Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. We call for peace and our thoughts are with all those impacted.

“The £1 million donation will be made to the Disasters

armbands in the nation’s colours.

Big screens also displayed “Football Stands Together” against the backdrop of the blue-and-yellow colours of the Ukrainian flag.

This message of solidarity was visible to fans around the world – including in Russia – across Premier League digital channels.

(Sportsmax)

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31

SCOREBOARD

ENGLAND 1ST INNINGS Alex Lees lbw b Roach 4 Zak Crawley c †Da Silva b Seales 8 Joe Root (c) b Roach 13 Dan Lawrence c Blackwood b Holder 20 Ben Stokes b Seales 36 Jonny Bairstow not out 109 Ben Foakes † lbw b Holder 42 Chris Woakes not out 24 Extras (lb 7, nb 5) 12 TOTAL (86 Ov, RR: 3.11) 268/6 Yet to bat: Craig Overton,

Jayden Seales celebrates after rattling Ben Stokes’ stumps

Kemar Roach appeals

J

onny Bairstow started his day as the glue holding England together and he ended it with an unbeaten century that put his side firmly back in the game against West Indies in Antigua.

If England's hierarchy were to make an appraisal of their so-called red-ball reset before lunch, the result would have been an epic fail.

Any review will, of course, come much later – and rightly so – but, given the criticism of the selection decisions taken in the aftermath of a dire Ashes drubbing, they could have done with a fresher start. Instead, it was a case of

S

the more things change, the more things stay the same early on.

Bairstow, whose retention was among their least contentious calls after he was England's only centurion of that fateful campaign in Australia and his hundred in the warm-up fixture for this match, came in with the tourists teetering on 48 for 4 inside the first hour and a half.

But he combined with fellow experienced hand Ben Stokes for a rebuilding partnership worth 67 for the fifth wicket and then put on 99 runs with old new kid Ben Foakes to raise England to a respectable score at stumps.

Foakes' recall as wicketkeeper-batter in place of Jos Buttler perhaps only raised eyebrows in that it had taken so long and after Andrew Strauss's edict as interim managing director that he "get a decent run of things"

The victorious Eagles

ix teams participated in a two-zone play-off in the Lennie Schuffler birth anniversary male volleyball tournament – Rollers, Castrol, GDF, Bartica, PMTC and Eagles – but in the end, after much toil, the Eagles were able to spread their wings and come out as champions.

PMTC defeated Bartica

25-18, 22-25, 15-12 while Eagles defeated GDF 25-22, 25-20 to advance to the final. The three-best-in-five encounter saw Eagles defeating PMTC 25-18, 1325, 21-25, 25-22 and 12-15, to claim the first-place trophy. The best setter trophy went to Dester Hoppie of Eagles, Best Libero to Jarred Jhingree of PMTC,

he could afford to feel as comfortable as he looked through much of his innings. But, having been in and out of the Test side sporadically since 2018, Foakes is, like others given an opportunity on this tour, playing to cement his place in the long term.

He looked in fine touch from the off. He edged the second ball he faced through the slips for four, but followed that with two more authoritative drives to the boundary in the same Kemar Roach over as he set out at better than a run-aball. Foakes struck five more fours before he was pinned back by a Jason Holder delivery that struck the knee roll in line with leg stump, his review turned down.

But the day belonged to Bairstow, who crafted a gritty and intelligent innings on a dry, slow pitch that offered little to either side. He faced 127 balls for a well-earned fif-

and MVP to Adriel Moore of Eagles. Bartica defeated GDF 30 -26 to earn the third-place trophy.

In a statement coming out from the Guyana Volleyball Federation GVF), President Levi Nedd said, “The GVF is grateful for the tournament sponsored by the two sponsors, along with Lennie Schuffler who was there to give encouragement. The final was of a very high standard: we had some thrilling games, Bartica showcased some talent against GDF and PMTC. They crept up on PMTC and could have edged them out, but PMTC did the latter.

The final also was of a very high standard as it went right down to five sets which showed that male volleyball is on the move in Guyana.”

Trophies were donated by Andy's Lumber and Wood Working and I and R Construction.

ty, brought up with a four off Veerasammy Permaul as he continued to deploy the cut to great effect any time there was width on offer. But he upped the tempo after that, scoring his next 50 off just 63 balls, raising his hundred by sweeping Kraigg Brathwaite to the boundary and celebrating with an elated roar and punch in the air.

With the ball swinging in the morning session, Roach had bowled beautifully to claim two wickets, while Jayden Seales and Holder took one each – the latter without conceding a run from his five overs. Holder finally gave up a run, two in fact, off the 33rd ball to a Bairstow cut.

Having won the toss, England Captain Joe Root opted to bat first. Debutant opener Alex Lees scored off the fifth ball he faced, threading Roach through backward point for four. He only survived another three balls though, before he was rapped on the front knee roll by a full, straight Roach delivery which

narrowly evaded the bat and struck in line with middle and off and, despite a hopeful review, Lees was sent on his way with just those four runs to his name.

Zak Crawley had looked in decent form, driving Seales to the boundary twice in three balls. But then Joshua Da Silva took a stunner – diving low to his left as Crawley sent an inside edge off Seales that slipped past off stump into the keeper's outstretched glove – and all of a sudden, England were 17 for 2 with barely 20 minutes gone.

In ever-familiar territory with an innings resurrection riding on Root's shoulders – this time at number three in England's revamped line-up – it was almost 23 for 3 when Root, on nine, slashed at a rising Roach delivery which then sailed through the fingers of Jermaine Blackwood at third slip. As the ball raced to the boundary, both sides were left to ponder the potential significance of the moment.

Roach ensured it was a moot point, probably to Blackwood's relief, as Root left the very next ball, a pinpoint in-ducker that clipped the top of off stump and England were, in fact, 27 for 3 and in a bad place.

Mark Wood, Jack Leach Fall of wickets: 1-12 (Alex Lees, 2.3 ov), 2-17 (Zak Crawley, 3.5 ov), 3-27 (Joe Root, 8.2 ov), 4-48 (Dan Lawrence, 15.4 ov), 5-115 (Ben Stokes, 39.6 ov), 6-214 (Ben Foakes, 69.2 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Kemar Roach 16-2-71-2 Jayden Seales 19-5-64-2 Jason Holder 16-9-15-2 Alzarri Joseph 19-2-69-0 Veerasammy Permaul 13-4-35-0 Kraigg Brathwaite 3-1-7-0

Dan Lawrence was reprieved when Blackwood missed a tough chance off Roach in the cordon again.

But Blackwood eventually clung on to dismiss Lawrence, who reached for a Holder outswinger and sent a thick outside edge to second slip.

Stokes and Bairstow ground through the second hour of the session, adding nine runs in 8.2 overs before lunch.

After the break, Holder failed to react at second slip as Stokes, on 22, toe-ended Joseph very clearly in his direction, and Seales saw an edge off Stokes drop just short of John Campbell at slip immediately before conceding back-to-back fours in an eventful 40th over. Seales produced the perfect riposte on the last ball, a fuller-length delivery that swung in late to defeat Stokes' attempted drive via an inside edge on to leg stump.

After Foakes' dismissal, Chris Woakes arrived to round out the 'Stokes, Foakes, Woakes' cult theme of the day and he shared an unbroken 54-run partnership with Bairstow, who ended the day 109 not out, to see England through without further loss.

(ESPNcricinfo)

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2022

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GBTI GCC Ladies to compete in Big Apple International Indoor Championships Page 30 Jonny Bairstow notched a century under pressure

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