Guyana Times - Friday, October 16, 2020

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Issue No. 4440

P15

THE BEACON OF TRUTH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2020

Guyana poised to become investment capital of Region – President tells int’l Private Sector

PRICE

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Venezuelan P16 brothers attack, chop fisherman to head

See story on page 3

SARA spent $1B without even recovering a pencil – Nandlall See story on page 7

Armed men See stories on pages 11&15 shoot, damage drainage pump at Success

Illegal mining P16 operation found, destroyed in South Rupununi

...says Agency was “politically toxic” – as GuySuCo commences land preparation

2-day housing drive kicks off today See story on at National Stadium page 12

COVID-19 death toll climbs to 107

– 31 new cases recorded in 24 hours P15

Coalition still maintains P7 no need to release SoPs – will use Observation, CEO reports to argue case

– CH&PA to deliver 300 land titles to Regions 3&4 applicants

2 NEWS

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Superbet distributes 100 Kindle Tablets to students across Guyana

G

uiana Holding Inc, marketed under the brand Superbet, has recognised the effects of the COVID-19 pandem-

ic on access to education, more specifically students’ access to virtual and online classes.

As a result, Superbet

embarked on a project to distribute 100 Kindle Tablets towards students across Guyana.

The process required

Some of the parents of recipients of the tablets

an application to be completed and sent along with relevant documents which resulted in hundreds of applications being received, out of which 100 winners were randomly pulled from a raffle drum.

The 100 winners were then contacted and scheduled to visit Superbet’s Head Office at various times to avoid crowds, with all COVID-19 protocols being observed including washing of hands, sanitising, temperature checks and social distancing. The 100 successful parents were visibly appreciative

and expressed gratitude to the company for the much-needed initiative.

Superbet General Manager Shrikant Kisoensingh noted that the company was committed towards its corporate social responsibility and saw education as a necessity which every student should enjoy.

Further, he added that this project was a gesture towards the Guyanese people during these unprecedented times in an effort to assist the education sector with much-needed resources.

“We believe that education is the passport to the future and hope that this gesture assists the students in a meaningful manner along their journey,” he said.

Superbet has continued to honour its commitment towards its customers, supporters, and the Guyanese people at large despite the COVID-19 pandemic, with the Kindle Distribution Project and other donations and sponsorships which can be viewed on the company’s website at www. superbet.gy or on its official social media accounts.

NEWS

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, October 16 – 04:00h- 05:30h and 14:30h-16:00h and Saturday, October 17 – 05:00h-06:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, October 16 – 16:00h-17:30h and Saturday, October 17 – 16:40h-18:10h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times - 05:00h, 11:00h and 16:00h daily

WEATHER TODAY Sunny conditions are expected throughout the day. There will be clear skies at night.

Temperatures should range between 21 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to Easterly between 1.34 metres and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 16:16h reaching a maximum height of 2.94 metres.

Low Tide: 09:51h and 22:13h reaching minimum heights of 0.35 metre and 0.24 metre.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2020

LOTTERY NUMBERS K

01 02 14

15 17 22

FREE TICKET

24 Bonus Ball

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2020 DAILY MILLIONS

04 07 19 21 26 LUCKY 3

2

1

3

3

Afternoon Draw

0

9

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

01

02

03

04

05 06

PAY DAY

16 SUPER PAY DAY FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2020

03 07 10 15 17

05 09 10 11 13

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

$43.16/barrel

- 0.37

Rough Rice

$225.00/ton

- 0.42

London Sugar

$388.20/ton

+0.34

Live Spot Gold

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1909.30

$1910.30

Low/High

$1888.90

$1912.90

Change

-0.30

-0.02%

Guyana poised to become investment capital of Region – President tells int’l Private Sector …seeks investors for oil and gas, energy project, mega-farms

P

resident Dr Irfaan Ali on Thursday talked up the availability of massive investment opportunities in Guyana for investors worldwide, while noting that the country is poised to become the most exciting investment destination in the region.

“Guyana is on the move.

We are accelerating development…

My message to you today, therefore, is that Guyana is ready to do business. Guyana will become the investment capital of the region. We assure you that when you come here, you will not want to leave. I invite all of you therefore to explore the business opportunities which abound in Guyana,” President Ali expressed to a number of potential investors.

He was at the time delivering the keynote address to the Forecast on Latin America and the Caribbean Conference hosted by the Association of American Chambers of Commerce and Latin America and the Caribbean (AACCLA).

As described by the President’s Office in a press statement, the conference is an “outstanding platform from which to advance our shared goals for promoting economic growth, the rule of law, and closer cooperation throughout the hemisphere”.

The Head of State explained that Guyana is a prime destination for investors in a variety of sectors, including oil and gas and energy, agriculture, forestry, mining, information and communication technology (ICT), tourism, housing, and manufacturing and services.

Petroleum Industry

On the oil and gas front, he pointed out that the country is projected to produce oil for well beyond 30 years.

He reminded that the Liza Phase 1 Field Development involves an estimated US$3.5B, while the Liza Phase 2 Field Development is projected at more than US$6B. The Payara Field Development, which the Government recently approved, paves the way for the injection of another US$9B in the sector.

“Apart from their direct impact, these investments will provide spinoff effects to the local economy and for local businesses,” he said.

The President emphasised that despite the growth in the oil sector, the country will not “hitch all of its wagons on oil”, but rather use the resources derived from the sector to revive the traditional economic sectors, thereby ensuring a more diversified and resilient economy.

“Guyana is rich also in timber, gold, diamond, bauxite, manganese, sugar, tourism. Its agricultural potential is phenomenal. It is believed to possess rare and precious minerals and other potential bonanza,” he highlighted.

Energy Sector

Further, the President re-

we have to expand into mega-farms, and we have to create a motivating environment in which large scale investors in agriculture would see Guyana as a destination of great prospect and opportunity,” the President added.

Connectivity and Market Access

President Irfaan Ali

vealed that Government is seeking investors to develop a mix of energy projects in order to generate an additional 400-megawatts of installed capacity.

“We shall be installing a natural gas plant (and) pursuing hinterland electrification, including through the provision of mini-grids for large hinterland communities,” President Ali disclosed.

He added that “the Amaila Falls Hydro-Electric Project will recommence”.

Agriculture

Agriculture is another major area bursting with investment opportunities, President Ali told the international conference.

“Guyana intends to realise its dream of becoming the breadbasket of the Caribbean,” he expressed.

“We’ve already commenced discussions with various stakeholders in the Middle East in developing our Halaal industry standards, so that we can benefit from that large market through investments and new market opportunity,” he explained.

“To do this, we have to modernise our agriculture,

As he laid out Government’s plan for the next five years, President Ali told the conference of international private sectors that the country’s location as well as trade and investment agreements boast significant advantages for market access.

He explained that with a number of key infrastructural projects, Guyana will soon be well connected.

“For example, the deep-water port and the roadlink is aimed at connecting Brazil with Guyana. And the bridge-link to Suriname [will be] opening up the potential for great and expanded market opportunities,” the Head of State outlined.

Apart from cross-country connectivity, President Ali said, there are a number of transformative infrastructural projects which are already in the pipeline. Those will result in great accessibility across the various regions of the country.

On the topic of market access, the Head of State point-

ed to the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME) duty-free access for locally produced goods into the Caribbean; the CaribbeanCanadian trade agreement duty-free access for eligible goods into Canada; and the Cariforum-European Union economic partnership agreement, which is a major trade and investment treaty that promotes the access of regional goods into the EU market.

Additionally, he made reference to the recent Framework Agreement to strengthen energy and infrastructure finance and market building cooperation, signed recently between the United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Todd.

Incentives

Moreover, President Ali explained that the country has an attractive investment regime, which is being refashioned to become more investment-friendly. He called attention to the multitude of measures included in National Emergency Budget 2020, which he said are aimed at improving the ease of doing business, increasing the competitiveness, and reduce investment and production costs.

TURN TO PAGE 8

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guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2020

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

Squatters destroying Govt property

O

ver the past weeks, the issue of squatters occupying lands at Success, East Coast Demerara belonging to Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) has led to much discussion on the illegal occupation of Government lands. Not only have these persons refused to remove, but they have now further escalated the issue to a criminal act by shooting and damaging a drainage pump in the area.

Squatting areas across the country have not been given the kind of attention they deserve over the years by the previous APNU/AFC administration, and persons were left to do as they wished. In many of these areas lawlessness abounds, and if urgent action is not taken, the situation would become worse.

While making it clear that the Government has zero tolerance for squatting, the new Government have already shown that they are cognisant of the issues affecting squatters, and are willing to work with them to ensure that proper systems are put in place to cater for their relocation and resettlement.

Squatting on Government reserves and other lands belonging to the state has been, and continues to be, quite prevalent in Guyana. Even though several attempts were made to bring squatting under control, the authorities have faced a huge challenge in getting persons to comply. What we see today is that persons continue to occupy Government reserves and state lands, thereby preventing crucial maintenance and development works from taking place. For example, works such as clearing and cleaning of trenches and canals; expanding road networks/ streets; building bridges or kokers for proper drainage; or building infrastructure for water, electricity or telephone services are being hampered or severely delayed due to persons ‘not observing the boundary lines.’

As if that were not enough, when persons are warned or given notice to cease their illegal activities or remove from state lands, they quickly resort to the courts for redress, resulting in the Government putting ‘on hold’ crucial development projects that are meant to benefit everyone.

Not only does this practice have a negative impact on development projects, it costs the state millions of dollars to dismantle and remove illegal structures, or to ensure that persons comply with the regulations.

While the Government must always strive to adopt a humanistic approach to this issue, it must not allow lawlessness to get to a point where it is uncontrollable, as is currently the case in many communities across the country.

There are regulations in place in respect to squatting, but they are not adequately enforced. Even when the regulations are enforced, it is done in a manner that is confrontational, and hence the authorities are fully resisted by citizens.

Like with the Success, ECD squatters, a similar situation exists in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) where, earlier this year, the regional administration reported a notable increase in squatter settlements. Like officials in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), those in Region 10 are seeking a collaborative effort with all relevant stakeholders to address the situation and to explore various alternative measures for these squatters.

As this publication had previously stated, while the Government must insist on using an approach that is consultative and inclusionary, it must also continue to make it pellucid that squatting will not be tolerated.

The fact that the squatters have damaged millions of dollars’ worth of GuySuCo’s varieties of sugarcane and have now damaged the company’s drainage pump shows that they are not interested in pursuing good-faith relations to bring a proper and amicable solution to the issue at Success, ECD. The Police must hold accountable those who have now descended into criminality to protect their illegal act of squatting.

The Moscow Kremlin is the most iconic locale in all of Russia. Located on Kremlin Hill and overlooking the Moskva River, the Kremlin is the official residence of Russian President Vladimir Putin

Prisoners, COVID and judges Dear Editor, The Demerara Assizes commenced on October 6, 2020 with an impressive list of 370 cases. Some of these cases will be disposed of within a few days, while a percentage will conclude within minutes, with the defendants being released as having served sufficient time on remand – which in Guyana can literally be several years – a shocking fact that takes us neatly to the point of this letter; namely, that our judicial system is sorely in need of an overhaul.

Our system is burdened by a serious backlog of cases, attributable to there being an insufficient number of puisne judges, coupled with the high number of inmates on remand or serving relatively lengthy terms of imprisonment for possession of small quantities of cannabis. This has a knock-on effect impacting the average duration of remands in custody, and puts severe pressure on the accommodation capability of our prison service as a whole.

Giving a speech recently as he handed over furnishings, equipment and law books donated by the IDB’s “Support for the Criminal Justice System” (SCJS) program to the newly commissioned Court Superintendent’s Office, out of which Police prosecutors operate, the Attorney General observed that Guyana’s prison population significantly surpasses the world’s average, with a rate of 264 prisoners per 100,000 in the population. The main objective of the SCJS programme is the reduction of the prison population in Guyana.

The current COVID-19 pandemic will remain with the world for quite some time, going forward. Authoritative estimates range from a further 1 year to perhaps even 2 more years living with social distancing, and this reality has added a dimension that only serves to exacerbate the problem of a judicial system under stress.

The Guyana Bar Association has observed that the accused’s

constitutional right to a fair hearing within a reasonable time is not absolute, and must be balanced against the enshrined citizens’ right to public health. The Chief Justice, in outlining a comprehensive set of measures approved by the Public Health authorities and put in place at the courts, said in a newspaper interview: “We cannot say to the prisoners we are very sorry we can’t provide the essential service that you need.” The new measures will not speed up the system.

The Attorney General has conceived a scheme intended to relieve some of this systemic stress. Persons holding the LL.B. degree from the University of Guyana but who have not proceeded to one of the regional law schools to qualify as attorneys-at-law will soon have the opportunity to apply for a place on a 1-year course that will accredit them to work as Police prosecutors in the Magistrates’ courts.

Complainants and their families, whom the State effectively represent, often feel as if their interests are not considered important. They see defendants being represented by trained attorneys, including the very best at the Bar, whilst in the Magistrates’ courts the Prosecution’s case is presented by Police officers with no formal legal training – leading to inequality of legal arms and an alarming incidence of misplaced case files, resulting in unlikely acquittals and frustrating discontinuations.

Official comments indicate that the resuscitation of the Judicial Service Commission is regarded as a priority to facilitate the appointment of new judges. Criminal trials by judges alone ought also to be considered for all the reasons mentioned above, including fairness to the State in the context of juries being called upon to try cases of technically complex fraud and crimes of local notoriety. A fraud trial, ongoing over several weeks and involving thousands of pages of ev-

idence, is utterly boring to all, and largely incomprehensible to most jurors. It is often practically impossible to assemble a jury of 12 presumably unbiased persons in a locality where graphic reports of a particularly heinous or scandalous crime had been widely circulated. In neither instance would a jury be a credible tribunal for the delivery of true justice.

One of my many cases whilst in practice as a barrister in the UK was a 4-handed passport fraud trial (and retrial) that went on for a total of 12 weeks of daily court sittings.

This trial had been transferred from Shrewsbury to Bristol to mitigate the impact of pre-trial publicity on the first named defendant, a local lawyer. We in Guyana do not have the builtin flexibility to effect such venue transfer as is possible in the UK. The murders of the 3 West Coast Berbice teenagers present a case in point, given the broad Guyanese context in terms of the place and timing of those terribly gruesome murders. The bias-inducing publicity unavoidably generated by the national press was much exacerbated by the unregulated comments and pictorial postings widely circulated on social media.

Bishop Dr John Smith, Chairman of the Ethnic Relations Commission, has expressed his concerns about today’s effect of social media. The reality is that almost everyone eligible for jury service today is the owner of a smartphone!

Trial by jury is a common law right established over 700 years ago with the publication of Magna Carta, as the best way of providing an accused person with the opportunity to have a fair trial judged by his peers – 12 ordinary men (and today women also) not learned in the law and who thus bring 12 pairs of fresh eyes and ears to the process. That the professional judge becomes case hardened by experience is all too true. In ‘either way’ matters in the UK, most serious crim-

inals would opt for trial on indictment in the Crown Court before a jury rather than summary trial in the Magistrates’ court, where the penalties are significantly lower. In Guyana, the gambling man would elect summary trial every day – but only because the Police might misplace the file!

Now could be the opportune time to move away from the standard set by Magna Carta, when there were no smartphones and there was no COVID-19. A significant number of trials may be more efficiently and equitably heard by a judge sitting alone, who will process the evidence much more quickly than a jury could, and counsel would necessarily skip the ‘made for jury’ drama and deliver shorter closing speeches. Fewer truly guilty defendants will walk free, as the judge will be alive to nuances such as one defendant stressing his good character whilst another remains silent about his own character; yet, judge-alone trials will make the reduction of the prison population an attainable prospect.

As trials are concluded more quickly, persons languishing on remand who have effectively served the time, and also those unjustly charged would be released more timeously.

The move towards judgealone trials is already underway in the Commonwealth Caribbean. Since 2011, Belize has been permitting trials by judges alone in respect of murder and murder-related charges, where it is perceived that there is a danger of witnesses being tampered with, where the trial is likely to be burdensome to a jury, and also in cases where the defendant takes the view that pre-trial publicity has rendered a fair trial unlikely.

Trinidad & Tobago passed the Miscellaneous Provisions (Trial

by Judge Alone) Act 2017, and recorded its first judge-alone trial last year. Is Guyana next?

Sincerely, Ronald Bostwick

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2020

5

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

Guyana is set to become “the apple of the eye” financial hotspot globally Dear Editor, Undoubtedly, Guyana promises to experiment with variables that can only achieve an end result depicting economic sustainability and successful viability. Its economic development plan is widely sought after and there is an international crave to satiate meaningful participation by contributing financial and human resources. Guyana’s growth is guaranteed to catapult and challenge the leading economies in this hemisphere because of its rich natural resources, especially with the advancement of its new oil industry and the potential harnessing of gas to shore also.

With the improvisation of the sugar industry, opening of the three factories will embellish the economy and augment the income of Guyanese. The capturing of new rice markets is another booster. Promises of the much-vied bauxite industry can reawaken further prosperity. The gold and mining industry is already propelling to new heights along with the restructuring of the timber industry.

Agriculture month is set

to propel a new surge that will cultivate a dynamic interest to break previous records with other cash crops production. This new PPP/C Government has the blessings and support from global investors, including also local and regional entrepreneurs. It’s not a myth or dream anymore but a reality show that daily erodes any illusion.

With a young, vibrant and intelligent team committed to work honestly and earnestly for the sole interest of the people and the nation, the PPP/C ‘s election manifesto is gradually taking shape and form on a daily basis. Much to the demise and detriment of the APNU/ AFC Party, their greatest nightmare and fear is being realized as, Guyanese are seeing for themselves the honesty and integrity of the current government, versus, the lies and deceitfulness from a corrupted past government.

The International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) has recently announced and pledged the availability of some US$60 billion towards investment purposes

to Guyana. This US government-run bank is seeking to win bids so that the bank can provide capital to help build Guyana’s infrastructure and develop other sectors according to its Chief Executive Officer, Adam Boehler.

It is anticipated that the lending terms and interest rates would be cheaper and more challenging than other competitors, especially the Chinese. Much displeasure has been expressed in the unsatisfactory manner in which Chinese projects were accomplished including, the Skeldon Sugar Factory, Arthur Chung Conference Center, the Marriot Hotel and the Cheddie Jagan International Airport. As such, a dramatic shift is expected as foreseen and predicted by the US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo. The Canadians and British are not asleep as well as the EU and they are all cognizant of the need to capitalize on this latest venture. Guyana is indeed an untapped gold mine, waiting to be explored by foreigners and at the said time, exploited!

As per telephone conversation with President Irfaan

Ali, Qatar has committed itself to supporting Guyana’s development also as an indication to strengthening diplomatic relations. They have seen the feasibility of prospects in a number of areas including energy, oil and gas, services and infrastructure also. The Emir of Qatar, His Royal Highness, Sheik Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani had discussed collaboration and cooperation to further support the Agriculture Sector, expanding the housing programs and other critical areas.

Not to be left out or behind, our close neighbor Suriname, is visiting with a three-man delegation and is currently involved in discussing various areas of mutual interest with their Guyanese counterparts.

Both countries are looking forward eagerly to strengthening the bilateral relationship and commence early initiatives in realizing various objectives including, the creation of a framework in culture, sports and tourism; health infrastructure; bridging the Corentyne and Suriname crossing; the field of education and information and computer technol-

ogy; agriculture improvisation; security and external trade and economic divestment between the two nations. This is a sure step towards fusing a closer relationship, established a long time ago between citizens of these two countries.

Despite the repercussions from the deadly coronavirus pandemic, the dilapidated and bankrupt economy inherited from the ruthless past government and the reckless mismanagement from the APNU/ AFC Party, all the corruptions and misappropriation of funds, the ravaging political scene; the instigative racial issues and orchestrated violence agitated by known political leaders; the prevailing destabilizers and dangerous democratic thwarters, the PPP/C government will not allow any opposition undermining to prevent them from exercising their rightful duties.

In fact, Guyana is steadfastly gaining accelerated momentum in the eyes of the international community as they seek cooperation to participate in the development of the economy. More respect and tribute is being

paid to the President and his team as more commitments for help and support keep pouring in from different sources.

As President Irfaan Ali said Thursday on a virtual zooming as the Head of State delivering the keynote address to the Forecast on Latin America and the Caribbean Conference, hosted by the Association of American Chambers of Commerce and Latin America and the Caribbean (AACCLA), “Guyana is about to become the investment colossus of the Caribbean.

It will become the region’s most exciting investment destination. Now, therefore, is the right time to be doing business in Guyana.

Despite the economic problems caused by the Coronavirus pandemic, our country’s prospects have never been brighter or more promising.” Guyana is indeed on the move and is set to become the most exciting and prized investment in the Caribbean and also, “The apple of the eye” financial hotspot, globally.

Dear Editor, Social media may seem like a blessing to mankind, but it can also be a nuisance and an instrument of great terror. I am writing this letter to express my concern in relation to certain evil-minded individuals who use this platform to promote animosity and spread fear so as to potentially establish civil unrest or war in our country.

In Guyana, we have seen people being incited by social media to hurt fellow Guyanese, and even to destroy public property. We saw a certain Opposition lawyer who, via social media, encouraged people to do bad things while he remained safe and secure behind closed doors in his palace. While most are ignoring his calls and staying in their homes, he is putting the lives of others at risk. Little do those people know that he is only causing them to accumulate criminal records with possible imprisonment.

I would like to point out that Guyana was in such peace and calm before the elections, and even immediately after the elections of March 2nd, 2020, our citizens were cooperative, respectful, and helpful. In the nation, there was no tension. Our people were in a state of unity, harmony, tolerance, and reverence, but after March 4th, 2020, misery descended on the nation, with fear and hatred spreading like a wildfire trapped in a dry forest.

Some people started using the medium of social media to make derogatory statements, using the nastiest of words to describe members of another race. They even went so far as to abuse the reproductive parts of our holy mothers and holy wives.

Hate among a particular set of people of both sides was all over social media, encouraging public terror and causing discomfort, and even others encouraging retaliation.

The recipe for civil war was actually on the fingertips of some people. Heads of diplomatic missions were threatened, and elegant Guyanese who were observers were heckled, humiliated, and their lives were put at risk. Following this abuse of social media, I was pleased to hear His Excellency President Dr. Irfaan Ali saying that laws governing social media would be made stiffer and with major penalties. I fully concur with this statement made by His Excellency President Dr. Irfaan Ali. Now, more than ever, I believe this is a necessity.

During the election count, we recall how one Opposition leader sent a message of lies via social media that the then-presidential candidate, Dr. Irfaan Ali, had invaded the area with dozens of armed personnel. This created a ripple effect of attacks and profound embarrassment on our country. All this happened because of the influence of so-

cial media, whereby this individual misused the platform to spew his hate.

This is why I say that social media can be both constructive and destructive.

Thank God for the positive ones that are posted about the realities, for e.g. those who post in the form of rules or readings, and who encourage all citizens to protect themselves from COVID-19 by learning to grow their own food, becoming self-sufficient, and be positive citizens of their country.

Respected editor, it would be remiss of me not to mention those dangerous mouthpieces of hate, particularly those living in the United States of America. They assume that since they are abroad, they can say what they want and provoke violence in the form of murders, assaults, shootings, beatings, rapes, burning of vehicles, robbery of paddy and personal belongings against a particular ethnic group.

This technique of using social media to create conflict, a pandemonium and a state of war must be prevented by the strong rules and laws passed in our Parliament. It has to be in such a way that if the evidence is there by which these culprits have been inciting Guyanese to riot, hurt, burn, loot, or rape any citizen of this country, then they must face the music.

We must be able to set an example to all of them by taking one or two of them

into the legal channel of extradition. This might be costly, but it is a noteworthy investment. The Government should also ensure that they are blacklisted at the airport, so that as soon as they arrive in the country, we will be informed and therefore make the requisite arrests so that they face the consequences.

These violent, warlike individuals living in Guyana and overseas need to realise that what they are putting out is what they are going to get. When a person preaches hatred and induces terror, they must realise that these are the illicit gifts of nature that will revisit them.

Apart from the political pain caused by social media, bullying has become quite a scourge. Many children, young people and adults have committed suicide due to the aforementioned. It is also known that certain men have exposed sexual relations with females; holding them in shame for a lifetime. It is also known that several women have shared nasty videos of fellow women on social media. We need serious laws to mitigate all of these, and to prevent them from causing damage and injury to others.

I ask our Government to consider the points I have raised above. Let us make a move as soon as possible, so that these laws be enacted, where we will see the negative thinking and actions of these culprits be

circumcised and castrated.

We need people who strive to promote respect, integrity, grace, morality, compassion, and unity; not those who turn social media into a hated platform. I firmly believe that if they do not have

anything positive to say, the only thing to do is to shut up and haul themselves in a corner.

Sincerely, Roshan Khan Snr

Respectfully, Jai Lall

SOCIAL MEDIA: Blessing or nuisance?

6

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2020

Page

Foundation ◄

Æsop’s Fables

Calculate 1) .91731 +.7986 4)

.91731 – .7986

7)

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10) .67582 X .79

Unit Test 2) .478490 +.87110

17) 1.5)181

3 .56742 +.7976

5) 4.1022 –1.3542

6) .53413 –.3542

120?

8) 3.55175 9) .170318 X8 X2

Thursday’s answers 1)1 2) 73 3) 3 100 100 10

4) 8 2000

21) What is 60% of

23) What is 3/5 centage of 40/72 ?

11) .739128 12) 2.971 X .544 X .676

15) 23).4697

18) 7).8414

19) .25).32

20) Jancy and his cricket club raised a total of 10, 563 for a charity. There are 30 people in the cricket club. How much per person did the cricket club raise?

13) Paul went to the shop to buy lunch for his 5 friends. For each friend, he spent $475, purchasing two pastries, a serving of fruit (mango slices) and a cold beverage. If he spent $235 for two pastries and $40 for a serving of fruit, how much did he spend on each cold beverage?

14) 6).18121

FOR CHILDREN

25)

6/10 ?

of 250?

What is 2/3 of 30%?

27) What is 70% of

3/5 ?

29) What is 46% of 0.67?

22) What is 20% of 24) 10/18 is what per-

26) What is 4/8 of 80%?

28) What is 35% of

1/2 ?

30) What is 15% of .905

16) 2)11.75 5) 423 5000

6) 655 1000

7) 1775 100

8) 9678 10000

9) 450 2251 5

D

o you have kelp in your house? Chances are you do! Kelp and other seaweeds are used in a variety of common foods and household items like toothpaste, frozen desserts and salad dressings.

Be a seaweed sleuth and see what food or other products you can find that contain algae! Need help getting started? Read the information below, then look at the ingredients in toothpaste, ice cream and pudding.

Helpful Hints: Seaweeds are large ocean plants called algae. The three main groups of seaweed are brown, red and green algae, each providing important ingredientsfor the manufacture of food and other products. Alginate, carrageenan and beta carotene are the names for the algae products you might find in foods or other products in your cupboards. These seaweed derivatives help ingredients mix together and form thick, gooey gels.

Alginates come from brown algae like giant kelp, Macrocystis porifera. Alginates help oil and water mix together to form smooth liquids.

They are used in a wide variety of foods including desserts, milkshakes, dairy products, canned foods, frozen foods, salad dressings, cake mixes and meringues. Alginates are also used in the manufacture of drugs, cosmetics, building materials, livestock and poultry feed, fertilizers and beer.

Carrageenan is an ingredient found in many kinds of red algae. It's used to gel foods like ice cream, cosmetics, medicine and other products.

Beta carotene is a natural pigment derived from green algae and other sources. It is used as a yellow-orange food coloring and may prevent certain types of cancers. © MONTEREY BAY AQUARIUM http://www.montereybayaquarium.org/lc/activities/kelp_cupboard.asp

Brown algae

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T

he weasels and the mice were always up in arms against each other. In every battle the weasels carried off the victory, as well as a large number of the mice, which they ate for dinner next day. In despair, the mice called a council, and there it was decided that the mouse army was always beaten because it had no leaders. So, a large number of generals and commanders were appointed from among the most eminent mice.

To distinguish themselves from the soldiers in the ranks, the new leaders proudly bound on their heads lofty crests and ornaments of feathers or straw. Then after long preparation of the mouse army in all the arts of war, they sent a challenge to the weasels.

The weasels accepted the challenge with eagerness, for they were always ready for a fight when a meal was in sight. They immediately attacked the mouse army in large numbers. Soon the mouse line gave way before the attack and the whole army fled for cover. The privates easily slipped into their holes, but the mouse leaders could not squeeze through the narrow openings because of their head-dresses. Not one escaped the teeth of the hungry weasels.

Red algae

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Green algae

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SARA spent $1B without even recovering a pencil – Nandlall …says Agency was “politically toxic”

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he now disbanded State Assets Recovery Agency (SARA) was a “politically toxic” organisation and a “parasite on the backs of taxpayers”, which gobbled up close to $1 billion with nothing to show for what was accomplished over the past five years.

This is according to Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, who was at the time justifying why the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government scrapped the unit and terminated over 40 employees.

“The only thing they (SARA) have done is to file legal proceedings; and all are defective…all would have been lost or will be lost when they are ruled upon,” he expressed during a recent programme he hosted on his social media page.

Nandlall reminded that then President David Granger himself was forced to admit publicly that they could not find any evidence of State assets being stolen to prosecute anyone.

“Not a lead pencil or pen was recovered,” he said, asking, “why should the Government keep an organisation like that?”

SARA, Nandlall contended, was “plundering the treasury and becoming a parasite on the backs of the Guyanese people”.

The Attorney General ex-

Attorney General Anil Nandlall

plained that the Agency was renting a building for $2.1 million monthly on Main Street, Georgetown, adding that the tenancy never went to public procurement. This, he said, was in addition to massive salaries for staff and huge overhead costs.

According to Nandlall, when the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition took power in 2015, “they persuaded themselves that there was massive stealing of State assets under the PPP/C Administration” and they subsequently commissioned over 100 forensic audits.

However, he explained that the forensic audits, which costed taxpayers millions of dollars, did not pro-

duce a single case of “stealing of State assets” under the PPP/C Administration as the coalition had claimed.

He highlighted that “in that mad mood that they were in”, the coalition created the State Assets Recovery Unit (SARU) which was a precursor to SARA, and it was housed in the Office of the President and staffed with politically-aligned persons.

The top-ranking officials included Dr Clive Thomas and Tacuma Ogunseye, two of the leaders of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) – a constituent of the APNU/AFC coalition – and Eric Phillips, a political advisor to former President Granger.

“Right away, that was a politically toxic organisation, and it began only to hunt politicians,” Nandlall told viewers.

According to the AG, it was during that time that several former PPP/C Government officials, including himself, were arrested and charged without any basis.

Subsequently, SARA was established via a Bill in the National Assembly.

However, he noted that from the moment the Bill became public it evoked widespread criticism from the political Opposition, as well as many civil society organisations, such as the Guyana

Guyana, Suriname to iron out agenda for ‘Strategic Dialogue Platform’

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he visiting ministerial delegation from Suriname on Thursday met with local ministers to further iron out the agenda for a ‘Strategic Dialogue and Cooperation Platform’ that will be launched in November.

The Surinamese team, comprising Foreign Affairs Minister Albert Ramdin, Health Minister Amar Ramadhin and Public Works Minister Dr Riad Nurmohamed, arrived in Guyana on Wednesday, and have since met with Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony and Public Works Minister Juan Edghill, besides other senior Government officials on Thursday.

The meeting will be primarily focused on: creating a framework for collaboration of culture, sports and tourism; the Corentyne River Bridge; improving inter-country agricultural sector; security, and diversification of the econo-

mies; and external trade of Guyana and Suriname.

During a briefing prior to the commencement of the meeting, Minister Todd stated that the mandate for further strengthening relations with Suriname was cemented during President Chandrikapersaud Santokie’s visit back in August.

“Our presidents provided the direction, and for new impetus in our cooperation programme as well as for our collaboration on matters of common interest to our countries and the regional agenda, they gave us a very specific mandate. And for our discussions today, we will focus on reviewing the various initiatives under the cooperation programme; proposals for the implementation of these; and other initiatives under the new ‘Strategic Dialogue and Cooperation Platform’ which will launch in Suriname next month,” he noted.

The Foreign Affairs Minister further lauded the progress of at least one of

these collaborative initiatives; that is: the Corentyne River Bridge, for which the landing sites have been earmarked.

“I hope that we can sustain momentum, not only on this project, but on all other agreed areas of cooperation,” Minister Todd asserted.

Meanwhile, the Surinamese Foreign Affairs Minister noted that there is much scope for further enhancement of bilateral relations between Guyana and Suriname. As such, he anticipated that they will be able set an agenda for the upcoming ‘Strategic Dialogue and Cooperation Platform’ in Paramaribo, set for November.

President Irfaan Ali will be leading a delegation in November to attend Suriname’s 45th Independence Anniversary celebration. During that visit, the two Heads of State will sign several agreements, including one on the Corentyne River Bridge.

Bar Association, the Private Sector Commission, and the labour movement.

He explained that to weather the storm, the former Attorney General Basil Williams, SC, held a few public consultations “which turned out to be placatory and futile as over 100 amendments were recommended, but none were incorporated into the bill”, Within days of its assent, a comprehensive constitutional challenge was mounted against the State Assets Recovery Act No 14 of 2017, by public commentator Ramon Gaskin. The challenge impugned approximately 90 of the 107 Sections of the Act, as being unconstitutional and in flagrant violation of the separation of powers. That issue is still before the Chief Justice awaiting a decision.

Nandlall added that Thomas and Aubrey HeathRetemyer, a member of the PNC-USA group, arrogated the power to appoint them-

Former Head of State Assets Recovery Agency, Dr Clive Thomas

selves in gross violation of the SARA Act, as Director and Deputy Director of SARA, respectively.

“Messrs Thomas and Retemyer appointed themselves and determined their term of office, in complete disregard and violation of the aforementioned provi-

sions. An action was filed in the High Court challenging their appointment and that action is also pending,” the AG said.

“If they are illegal, then all 40 (other employees) are illegal,” he argued.

Nandlall on Tuesday indicated that the PPP/C Government has closed down SARA and dispatched termination letters to its employees – a commitment the Administration made very early on assuming office.

He outlined that the Government would undertake to strengthen asset recovery components of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AMLCFT) legislation as well as enact legislation utilising the Caricom model of State asset recovery, in respect of State assets acquired illegally. He noted that this model legislation was in consonance with the laws and the Constitution of Guyana.

Coalition still maintains no need to release SoPs

– will use Observation, CEO reports to argue case

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ven as the APNU/AFC Coalition contends that it is the rightful winner of the March 2, 2020 elections, the party is still adamant that there is no need to make its Statements of Poll (SoPs) public as it proceeds with the election petitions filed.

During a press conference on Thursday, Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde, who is one of the leading attorneys representing the Coalition, told reporters that the issue of the SoPs does not form any part of their case.

He therefore argued that there will be no need to rely on them during the hearing of the two elections petitions filed to challenge the outcome of the March 2 polls.

“Insofar as those issues we’ve raised in our elections petition form the basis of substructure in our case, in my opinion, we do not need to rely first factually or evidentially on those statements of poll; and secondly, the very fact that the declarations were made on the Recount requires us to pay attention to the Statements of Recount and the certificates of district tabulation, and those documents which were generated and fabricated for the purpose of delivering an elections results for the PPP and installing them as the Government of this country,” Forde posited.

The Coalition has claimed it won the March 2 elections but is yet to release the SoPs which contain the votes calculated at each polling stations, which when tabulated would indicate the winner.

However, a National Recount exercise conducted subsequently revealed that the People’s Progressive

Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde

Party/Civic (PPP/C) in fact won the elections by 15,416 votes over the APNU/AFC. But the Coalition is now challenging the processes used to conduct the recount and its outcome, among other things, in its two petitions.

In fact, Forde pointed out on Thursday that they will be using the anomalies and irregularities highlighted in the Observation Reports during the recount as well as the reports of the Chief Elections Officer to argue its case and have the court rule that either new elections are held or that the electoral laws were breached, hence the “APNU/ AFC be declared the winner of the elections”.

The latter, however, would be dependent on the SoPs which the Coalition is keen on keeping from public view.

Meanwhile, earlier this week, Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George set October 22 for a case management hearing for the two petitions.

According to S.C. Forde, they are hoping to get early dates for the commencement

of the trials at next week’s hearing. He further asserted that there should be no protracted delays during the trials.

“The issues that arose… are already set out in observation reports and in reports before the [Guyana] Elections Commission. There is no need for an extensive period of acquisition of evidence, interlocutory proceedings filed to obtain evidence, because the Elections Commission itself has engaged in a process which would have provided each and every party to these elections with the necessary information. Therefore, that forms part of the elections petition, and we’ve presented that information to the court,” he stated.

To this end, he anticipates that the matters could be dealt with in eight months’ time; and, as such, wants early trial dates.

“The APNU+AFC Coalition looks forward to the early commencement of hearings, and is eager to present its compelling case in court, and is confident that the Elections Petitions will succeed,” the Senior Counsel noted.

According to Forde, the Coalition’s petitions are meritorious and are based on “solid facts and contentions”.

This position was supported by his colleague, Opposition Parliamentarian Amanza Walton-Desir, who further told reporters during Thursday’s press conference that there is merit in the irregularities highlighted by the Coalition, and so the question now is how speedy the court will dispose of the matters.

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Guyana poised to become investment...

Several key budget measures, including tax concessions on agro-processing, cold storage and packaging; the removal of VAT on exports, and allowing exporters, including those in the fishing, rice and timber industries, to reclaim input VAT. Measures to reduce investment and production costs include the removal of VAT on

building and construction materials, electricity and water; the removal of VAT on fertilisers, agro-chemicals, pesticides and key inputs into the poultry sector; and the zero-rating of the poultry industry.

Against this backdrop, the President noted the importance of not only public investment, but foreign direct

investment (FDI) towards driving growth and accelerating Guyana’s transformative agenda.

“We welcome foreign investment. We are eager to do business with the rest of the world, including with the United States. We are enthusiastic about attracting investment, including through public-private partnerships and

FROM PAGE 3

through the partnerships between foreign and local companies,” President Ali said.

“Guyana is about to become the investment colossus of the Caribbean. It will become the region’s most exciting investment destination. Now, therefore, is the right time to be doing business in Guyana,” he declared. (Devina Samaroo)

Fast tracking…

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…the PNC’s elections petitions? he first thing your Eyewitness wants you to remember is that the PNC filed TWO elections petitions (EP) before the courts – one on Aug 31, and the second two weeks later. Now, you know when a plaintiff files a “back-up” case, in case the first one fails, that plaintiff has some serious problems!! He already figures his case has enough holes in it, he expects to lose. Not a good beginning for a party that insists on dubbing the PPP govt “illegitimate”!

Anyhow, your Eyewitness is amazed at the alacrity of the courts to have already decided to set up a “Case Management Hearing” next Thursday, barely two-anda-half months after the first filing!! Your Eyewitness cast his mind back to that other EP the PNC filed after the 1997 elections – under the name of their proxy, Esther Perreira. The court – under then Justice Claudette Singh - took a year to start considering the case, and another two years to gather evidence and come to a decision. By then, of course, it was all moot, since new elections had already been scheduled!!

But more to the point: the PPP had filed an EP in June 2015 - the month after the elections of that year – contesting the results, because their request for the recount of 15 boxes of ballots wasn’t granted. That could’ve swung the elections for them. As at today, that EP has never been heard, even though the PPP petitioned the Appeals Court in 2018 to intervene. So, the first thing your Eyewitness would suggest to the PPP is: at the Case Management Hearing next Thursday, they should ask the court what happened to their EP. Sauce for the goose and gander, and all that!!

Anyhow, while the PNC lawyers (haven’t heard whether they will be bringing in Boston and Jeremie!) sort out themselves, your Eyewitness has been hearing grumblings about Volda Lawrence being left to swing slowly in the wind. Her handbag-carrier James Bond (what a disgrace to that vaunted name!) complains that none of the party big wigs (Granger? Harmon?) saw it fit to come out and show some solidarity with her. That’s COLD! Especially seeing as how she boasted that she had only “PNC friends”!!

They’re also grumbling that the PPP should bring the fraud charges against her AFTER their EPs are heard.

What nonsense!! Volda’s charge of fraud is on a different basis than the petitions. The numbers on the SOPs to which she affixed her signature were changed by Mingo and company BEFORE any allegation of “anomalies” was raised by the PNC!! The PNC will be relying on their “Observations” during the recount.

What will Volda be relying on?? …quality US construction Well, as your Eyewitness pointed out yesterday, the US intends to give the Chinese a run for their money in our hemisphere as far as funding projects is concerned.

And they’re starting with little ole us!! The Chinese came in a few years ago with bulging pockets and launched their “Belt and Road” Initiative. Granger enthusiastically signed on, expecting – your Eyewitness suspects – that some of the big bucks would be transferred into HIS pockets!!

Now, the Chinese have made some inroads, and they’re now the region’s biggest creditors. But, hopefully, folks have gotten wise to the dark underbelly of Chinese investments. They bring in workers who don’t return to China, and, more insidiously, when the countries can’t service their debts, the Chinese step in and grab the asset.

Well, expect the Americans to start bidding for the mega projects in the pipeline, as outlined by President Ali: Bridges across the Corentyne and Demerara rivers; Deep Water Harbour off the Berbice River; and Road to Brazil etc.

Expect quality, and not shoddy Chinese crap! …ship-jumping Expect, in the months ahead, for most right-thinking members of the PNC to jump that sinking ship after David Granger’s desperate gamble to so barefacedly rig the elections.

Does he really think he can rally the troops with his sanctimoniousness?

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

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Oil funds will remain untouched until reforms enacted – President Ali

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resident Irfaan Ali has assured that monies garnered from Guyana’s oil and gas sector will remain untouched in the sovereign wealth fund until a series of reforms is enacted to strengthen the Government’s regulatory infrastructure for the sector.

The President made this disclosure following his keynote address to the Forecast on Latin America and the Caribbean Conference, hosted by the Association of American Chambers of Commerce and Latin America and the Caribbean (AACCLA) on Thursday.

“My Government is focused heavily on transparency and accountability. As you know, we have demonstrated this after the negotiations of the licence for the Payara. Not only did we make the agreement public, but we also made the environmental permit public, so nothing is done in secrecy.

“I’ve said before, there’ll be an arm’s length relationship with the politicians.

We had international experts leading those negotiations and discussions,”

the Head of State was quoted by the Office of the President as saying.

He explained, “We have the technical people who we are training to manage the resources from the oil and gas sector. You know, we already spoke about the establishment of the Petroleum Commission, which will be managed by highly-trained technical personnel.

“And, of course, the sovereign wealth fund is important, in terms of not only the securing and safeguarding [of] the funds but also establishing the conditions and the circumstances, through legislation, on

which resources will be used.”

The President noted too that as an important partner in development, the Private Sector has an equal stake and responsibility in how the economy is managed.

According to the Office of the President, Dr Ali also committed to ensuring “openness and frankness” in dealing with governance issues.

Guyana is emerging as an oil-and-gas-producing nation. This requires the building of human and institutional capacity; crafting and agreeing to some critical policies and legal

measures; and pursuing strong support and coordination among a number of governmental and non-governmental agencies.

In keeping with its manifesto commitments, the Government has pledged to implement a number of measures to ensure accountable and transparent management of the country’s natural resources including establishing an arm’s length sovereign wealth fund insulated from political interference and upholding the Santiago Principles of transparency and accountability, and the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI).

It was reported that a total of US$150 million is in Guyana’s sovereign wealth fund being held in a United States Bank of America account. In June 2020, a total of US$94,921,803 representing both royalty and oil sales was deposited into the account while an additional US$3,698,152 was further deposited.

Further in August, a total of US$46,046,937 was deposited which represent sales and royalties for another one million barrels of oil.

Armed men shoot, damage drainage pump at Success Backlands …escape with security’s gun

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The damaged drainage pump

rmed men pounced on a security guard stationed at the Success Backlands, East Coast Demerara (ECD), disarmed him and shot at a drainage pump before escaping on a motorcycle.

Reports are the security guard was guarding pump operations at the Success Backlands, where persons are squatting on lands which belong to the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo). Based on information received, the incident occurred about 15:59h.

Guyana Times was told that the security personnel was guarding the pump when he was approached by two masked men brandishing cutlasses. The men kicked the security guard to the ground and place the cutlass to his neck while disarming him. They also relieved him of ammunition which he had in his

pockets before shooting at the drainage pump, rendering it unserviceable. They then escaped on a motorcycle. The Police were immediately notified and gave chase. Unconfirmed reports are that while giving chase, Police Officers discharged a round in the direction of the suspects, but one of the bullets hit a civilian.

The incident occurred at the same location where lands occupied by squatters were flooded earlier on Wednesday. These persons have been asked to remove from the lands, as housing accommodations would be provided at another location.

However, they have refused to do so under the pretext that the Success lands should be regularised. This specific plot of land is used by GuySuCo to cultivate sugar cane for the Enmore Estate. An investigation has been launched.

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

2-day housing drive kicks off today at National Stadium – CH&PA to deliver 300 land titles to Regions 3&4 applicants

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he Housing and Water Ministry in collaboration with the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) will be delivering some 300 land titles to residents of Regions

Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara) and Four (Demerara-Mahiaca) at a two-day event set for the National Stadium this weekend.

The main objective of

the housing drive initiative, dubbed, “The Dream Realised Project”, is for Guyanese to own their own homes.

“We will be aiming to deliver approximately 300

titles targeting Regions Three and Four this weekend. These titles would have been completed by CH&PA and paid off by the applicants,” Minister Collin Croal told the Department

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal Junior Minister Susan Rodrigues

of Public Information (DPI).

He also added that at the event which commences today at 09:00h, there will be several service providers to advise and interact with the public.

“There will be banks at the activity, insurance companies, and a number of Internet providers showcasing to members of the public the services they provide.

Various departments within CH&PA will be at the event to assist persons with inquiries and [who] are seeking further information on their

at the event, the Health Ministry and the Guyana Police Force will be at the venue to ensure persons follow COVID-19 safety guidelines and adhere to social distancing.

The event will run from 09:00h to 15:00h today and Saturday. This initiative is a step further in keeping with the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government’s promise of distributing 50,000 house lots in five years.

The PPP/C’s 2020-2025 Manifesto has promised development across sectors in

application,” he noted.

Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry , Susan Rodrigues said the event would provide an experience for low-income earners where they can have the same access to a community lifestyle like a high-income owner.

She added that the biggest mandate of the Ministry was to ensure that persons become home owners, but she also stressed the need for the necessary infrastructure to be in place for those looking to build on their lands.

“We have asked the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) to be here; we want a comprehensive approach to housing and the Central Housing and Planning Authority will not be allocating house lots in areas without infrastructure and then we have to catch up on delivering electricity and water,” she said.

Minister Rodrigues said once an application was made and people receive their allocations, GWI will be up to speed with its water distribution network, so new homeowners could start construction.

Meanwhile, with the crowd that is expected

Guyana. One of the key areas include the creation of 50,000 jobs in the next five years through initiatives such as increasing the ease in doing business; providing incentives for small businesses and young entrepreneurs; reversing Value Added Tax (VAT) on exports, building materials, land rents, data and more; promoting skills training; improving access to financing for investments; and incentivising employers to promote youth empowerment among other measures.

The Party has also pledged to provide free education at the University of Guyana (UG) within five years; to create 10,000 house lots annually; to fight crime with greater investment; to represent society’s vulnerable, and to approach the management of the oiland-gas sector in a non-partisan manner.

Added to these are plans for the modernising and expansion of Guyana’s infrastructure in the areas of transport; utilities; sea and river defence as well as improvements to drainage, garbage collection and sanitation, health, and education.

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

PNC’s Basil Blackman resigns from Executive Committee over lack of consultations

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xecutive Member Basil Blackman of the Peoples National Congress Reform (PNC/R) has tendered his resignation from the party’s Central Executive Committee, citing his disappointment with the lack of consultation on a number of decisions.

In his resignation letter, dated October 14, 2020 and addressed to that party’s General Secretary Amna Ally, Blackman indicated that his resignation from the party’s Central Executive Committee takes immediate effect.

“I have made this decision with a heavy heart, but for the good of my conscience, it is for the best. Several key decisions do not sit well with me, and as such I feel as though the executive no longer serves its mandated purpose, since decisions are made without consultation,” the party member stated in the letter.

According to Blackman,

PNC’s Basil Blackman

he is now stepping aside to make way for a younger candidate to function in his capacity on the Executive Committee.

However, he noted that he will continue to serve in the best interest of the people of Guyana.

The letter was also sent to PNC/R Leader David Granger and Chairperson Volda Lawrence.

Blackman’s resignation comes on the heels of the PNCR – which is the leading party in the APNU alliance – being embroiled in disunity and internal power struggles that have been played out publicly in recent months. Reports are that senior members within the PNC are dissatisfied with the performance of current Leader and former President, David Granger, blaming him for the party’s defeat at the 2020 polls.

In fact, there was uproar over the Coalition’s list of Members of Parliament, who were handpicked by Granger with little to no consultation within the coalition.

Notably, PNCR stalwarts such as Chairwoman Volda Lawrence; Party General Secretary and Chief Whip in the 11th Parliament, Amna Ally; and former Chairman Basil Williams were excluded from the Coalition’s list of MPs. This sparked outrage among some party members, including former MP James Bond, who himself was also left out of the parliamentary list. Bond went on a public tirade against Granger on social media, criticising the PNC and its current leadership for not consulting

tug-o-war with its majority coalition partner. The party had to settle for a 30-70 per cent division of parliamentary seats – a significant reduction from the initial 40-60 per cent arrangement.

However, the tense relations between the two coalition partners worsened last month when controversy arose over the election of the Vice Chairman for the Region Four Regional Democratic Council (RDC) – a post that was supposed to be given to the AFC based on a previous agreement, but instead went to an APNU nominee.

This situation resulted in the AFC General Secretary David Patterson resigning from the post.

It was reported that Patterson had helped craft the agreement, which stipulated that the AFC would get the Vice Chair positions in Regions Seven and Four.

At the election, AFC had nominated Neilson McKenzie for the Vice Chairman position, APNU nominated Samuel Sandy and the PPP nominated Desmond Morian. Voting was along party lines, as APNU and PPP cast their 14 votes each for their candidates, and the AFC, with its five votes, backed McKenzie. The Chairman, APNU’s Daniel Seeram, then used his deciding vote to elect Sandy.

Since it came into office after joining forces with the APNU in 2015, the minority AFC has been criticised for the submissive role it has been playing to the abusive APNU.

with the party’s membership before making its decision regarding parliamentarians.

Additionally, the selection of the parliamentarians resulted in two of the five parties – the Working People’s Alliance and the Justice For All Party – resigning from the APNU, which is the majority party in the Coalition.

Meanwhile, only in the recent past, the AFC also had a

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Ogle Airport in full compliance for commercial operations — prepares to welcome CAL on Monday

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n light of reports that Caribbean Airlines Limited (CAL) will begin operating out of the Eugene F Correia International Airport (EFCIA), Ogle for the first time on Monday, October 19, the facility said that it was fully prepared and in compliance with all the guidelines outlined in order to facilitate commercial flights.

On Wednesday, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill hinted that preparations were being made to facilitate CAL’s operation. The Airport has been facilitating repatriation flights from Guyana to Barbados, but on Monday, it will welcome its first commercial flight.

EFCIA Operations Manager Phillip Lynch told sections of the media that all the protocols were in place to meet COVID-19 guidelines.

In fact, he stated that two booths would be set up to collect COVID-19 PCR test samples.

However, a release issued by the Airport stated that in collaboration with Eureka Medical Laboratory, it has implemented arrangements to carry out the sampling for the PCR COVID-19 tests for arriving passengers.

“At a meeting, …. the required arrangements and facilities [ in relation to the COVID-19 protocols and regulations established by the Ministry of Health, in col-

laboration with the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority] were reviewed and are in compliance with these regulations,” the statement from the Airport noted.

On Monday, the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) reopened to commercial flights weeks after Government’s decision to allow operations. light of this move, the Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony announced that the important aspect of allowing incoming passengers was a negative PCR test, which must be proven by persons entering the country. This type of test is separated into two categories and can be done either within 72 hours

or seven days of the flight.

“Before you can even get that flight, you have to go to the lab at the place of origin, get a PCR test done.

That test has to be submit-

If someone tests positive during their second PCR test, they will be picked up by the Health Ministry’s specialised COVID-19 team.

In addition, upon board-

ted to the authorities here in Guyana. We will then validate the test, that it’s an actual PCR test and we will pass an instruction on to the airline so that they can book the flight,” the Minister informed.

With regard to the seven-day window, travellers will be asked to pay for a second test at the Airport.

ing an aircraft, passengers must follow the necessary guidelines with regard to protective gear. Screening will be done at the airport through temperature checks and electronic recording of data, among other measures.

Dr Anthony insisted, “When you board the plane, you are required to travel with a mask on so that just

perchance someone is infected, you’re protected within this enclosed space. When you arrive in Guyana, we have persons who are at port health and those are Ministry of Health staff.

They would screen you.”

Port health officers are responsible for interviewing incoming passengers, specifically to record their medical data and existing conditions.

This process will not be long.

The Minister said it was expected that passengers will be negative, but nevertheless, all measures have been put in place to cater for a positive case: “We have designed an electronic system, so once you come in, they would already have the name of the passenger and a number of details…We’re expecting that the majority of people will be negative, so this is just putting all the measures in place in case we have a positive.”

Benn to appoint Inspector General as $60M lock-ups commissioned — says IG will ensure stations are up to par

Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn and acting Police Commissioner Nigel Hoppie inspect one of the new cells at the Brickdam lock-ups on Wednesday

H

ome Affairs Minister Robeson Benn on Wednesday commissioned the spanking new $60 million lockups in the compound of the Brickdam Police Station.

The new facility has the capacity to hold 52 prisoners at one time.

During the handing-over ceremony, Minister Benn stated that the facility was built as part of the Guyana Police Force’s mandate to treat detained persons humanely.

“We should not continue to have situations where we offer these people a brutalising experience for prisoners, that we demeanour, vow with respect to service and protection to the Guyanese public,” Minister Benn said.

Engaging the public with respect while they are detained is what defines the quality of service of the

Force, the Minister said.

“Where we have to house people in the Police Stations, it should be respectful; it should be professional and it should be of a standard that is acceptable not only here in Guyana but internationally,” the Minister underscored.

Minister Benn further stated that the commissioning of the lock-ups was the beginning of a new chapter for the Force. As such, he expects that all stations will be kept tidy, and the language and manner of officers, both among themselves and when interacting with the public, will be respectful.

Benn added that he was soon to appoint an Inspector General to the Force, whose job would be to ensure that stations were up to par.

The Inspector General will be responsible for en-

suring that “at all levels in respect of accommodation, conduct of our Policemen, remind them of the training which they have received and to remind them of the standards which the public, who pay the taxes, [are due], that they are treated in a respectful manner and that they feel proud of us,” Benn said.

Meanwhile, acting Police Commissioner Nigel Hoppie says the Force serves merely as a custodian of offenders while investigations are ongoing or while they await an appearance in court. To this end, the Top Cop said the Force “has an implicit responsibility to treat every suspect as innocent until proven guilty, which means that the procedures employed and holding facility used must be in compliance with the required standards”.

NEWS

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

COVID-19 death GuySuCo commences land at Success toll climbs to 107 preparation …squatters under water – 31 new cases recorded in 24 hours

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s of Thursday, the COVID-19 death toll moved to 107 after another person succumbed to the life-threatening disease.

This was accompanied by 31 new cases that were recorded over the past 24 hours.

The latest death is a 46-year-old female Chinese national from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica).

She died while receiving care at a medical facility.

“The MoH [Ministry of Health] expresses sincerest condolences to the family of the deceased and will make every effort to provide all the necessary support during this difficult time, to render any assistance needed,” the Ministry stated.

The total number of cases has now spiked to 3620, after the new cases were confirmed on Thursday. There are still 16 patients in the specialised Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

One hundred and fifteen per-

sons remain in institutional isolation, 860 in home isolation, and 57 persons in institutional quarantine.

Total recoveries stand at 2522 after 35 persons recovered in one day.

A regional breakdown showed that two new cases were detected in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam); four in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara); 18 in Region Four; two in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni); two in Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni), and five in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

The figures remained the same in Regions One (Barima-Waini); Five (Mahaica-Berbice); Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) and 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) at 588, 24, 55, and 125 respectively.

Meanwhile, Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony has announced

that COVID-19 testing at the National Public Health Reference Laboratory can now be completed within 45 minutes, a significant reduction from the previous hourslong method.

During the COVID-19 update, he said more samples were being processed in a shorter time, through a donation of a $7.2 million automated extractor by the People’s Republic of China.

Government has also purchased another extractor, which will be delivered shortly.

“I can tell you that we are now able to extract 96 samples within 45 minutes. Our processing time has gone up tremendously ,so we will be able to do more samples in the timeframe than we used to,” the Minister said.

As of October 1, the COVID-19 emergency measures (No 10) were published, outlining a change in the countrywide curfew to 21:00h to 04:00h (9 pm to 4 am) to allow certain businesses to operate for a longer period. For example, gas stations, salons and supermarkets can now close at 20:00h.

Government has reiterated that this was not an opportunity for persons to party or socialise, but simply to enable citizens to conduct their transactions. Farmers and fishermen are now benefiting from increased timing to ply their trade. Businesses that flout the measures will be given a warning and on the second violation, they will be asked to close their doors indefinitely.

Gyms and bars are among the services to remain closed.

Meanwhile, there are special measures for Regions Seven and Nine, inclusive of restricted travel. The Ministry explained that these new measures were made following a rapid assessment of the COVID-19 situation in the country.

Squatters are yet to remove from the flooded lands

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he Guyana Sugar C o r p o r a t i o n (GuySuCo) has been ordered to restart operations at the Enmore Sugar Estate by early 2022, which has prompted the commencement of work at Success, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

This is the same area which has been taken over by mass squatting in recent months, damaging 17,000 varieties of sugar cane in the process. These persons have been asked to vacate, but a few are still non-compliant, refusing to cease the illegal inhabitance of State lands.

GuySuCo Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sasenarine Singh said that while the squatters have been affected by these steps, the Housing and Water Ministry had urged them to relocate and as such, arrangements were even made for other parcels of land to be made available.

“GuySuCo is not a housing agency. We are an agricultural agency and our exclusive business is in the cultivation and production of sugar and value-added sugar-related products, and that is all we are trying to do in a legal and a legitimate way,” Singh voiced.

The CEO explained that to have successful outcomes from the sugar mills at

Enmore, there must be a supply of one-year-old matured sugar canes. As a result, land tillage needs to commence next January.

“We are not doing anything that is against the law.

We are basically trying to produce sugar from sugar lands, feed the sugar mills, and produce sugar for Enmore, so that we can create over 2000 jobs,” he said.

Singh believes that the sugar company was not being unreasonable, since it had previously parcelled off and transferred high-value lands to the Housing Ministry’s Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) to facilitate 28,000 house lots.

Enmore remains with approximately 6881 hectares of lands and this amount has to be cultivated to accomplish the Government’s mandate.

Sections of the plot at Success were inundated with water on Thursday when <<<Guyana Times>>> visited the area. According to persons on site, the water appeared around their quarters on Wednesday afternoon.

One woman told this publication, “Everything wet up inside the house ‘cause the water come from everywhere…We couldn’t sleep there ‘cause all we beds wet.”

Another squatter, Carl

Used tyres must be compliant with GNBS requirements …non-compliant tyres will be destroyed

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ollowing the lifting of the ban on used tyres by the new Administration, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) has advised that there were strict guidelines to be complied with before this commodity is sold.

This means all imported tyres must be subjected to examination by the G NBS at the time of importation to determine compliance with the requirements of the national standard. It has been clearly outlined that non-complying tyres will be seized and/or destroyed by the Bureau.

All imported new and used tyres must comply with the requirements of the Guyana Standard Specification for pneumatic passenger car tyres GYS 67:2017 (Second Edition).

“Importers should familiarise themselves with the requirements stipulated in the aforementioned standard, which can be purchased from the GNBS,” a statement said.

Persons desirous of further information can contact the Product Compliance Services Department of the GNBS on 219-0066 extension 237 or WhatsApp 692 GNBS (4627).

Since October 1, Government had reversed the ban on used tyres – a move which was undertaken by the former coalition administration in 2017 and was met with serious criticism.

The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) had joined scores of stakeholders in rejecting the former Government’s plan to permanently ban used tyres on Guyana’s roads. The

Party rationalised that such a move would visit dire consequences on vehicle owners, businesses, and even the entire economy.

The used-tyre industry reportedly provided jobs for approximately 5000 persons, and contributed in excess of $100 million in revenue. The Guyana Used Tyres Association (GUTA) had explained that as many as 5000 persons were at risk of becoming jobless with this decision.

The possibility of tyres being smuggled into the country and the cost of public transportation being increased were also two negative aspects of the ban, Guyana Minibus Association President Eon Andrews had contended.

In April 2016, hundreds of concerned stakeholders had signed a petition to persuade

Used tyres can now be sold if they meet the GNBS compliance standard

Government to rescind its decision to ban the importation of used tyres into the country, but the measure was allowed to move forward.

In the 2020 Budget presentation, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill had identified that these restrictions were placing tremendous pressure on the backs of Guyanese, since many could not afford to purchase new tyres. As a re-

sult, the ban was finally lifted.

It had also announced that persons looking to purchase a used vehicle were also catered for, since the Government would be reversing the ban on importation of vehicles older than eight years that was introduced by the former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government back in 2016.

Brown voiced, “These people use all their money to put up something and all of it flooded out.”

Over the past weeks, persons have vacated the lands they were occupying after being informed that alternative accommodations would be made available. To date, some persons have remained on the flooded property and have displayed reluctance when confronted with the idea of vacating.

The mass squatting had resulted in a confrontation between residents and State officials, after these persons were informed that they are squatting on Government reserves.

Persons even became violent when they were asked to remove from the lands, which belong to the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), primarily at Vryheid’s Lust, Success, and Chateau Margot.

It was reported that lands in 22 areas on the East Coast, East Bank, and West Bank Demerara; Linden; Berbice and Essequibo, were approved in the 2020 Emergency Budget last week.

This publication understands that allocations for the residents would fall under this project.

In September, a meeting was convened and Government’s zero-tolerance position on squatting was further made clear. The Ministry has assured that all the necessary infrastructure for sustainable housing: such as roads, electricity, lights, and drainage and irrigation, will be installed at whichever locations these persons are placed.

Already, the issue of squatting in this area has resulted in dire consequences for GuySuCo. The Corporation lost a significant quantity of its research crop at the Chateau Margot nursery, after some 17,000 varieties of sugar cane were destroyed by the squatters to make room for their dwellings.

The damaged plants were of fine quality, with the potential to earn the country billions per year. The loss has also dampened Guyana’s thrust in the sector, since years of research have been completely devastated.

16 NEWS

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Venezuelan brothers attack, Refunds to ‘Ponzi chop fisherman to head scheme’ investors halted According to the teen’s mother, later that day, her son left home and went a few houses away for physical therapy, and after that, he was standing at the street corner with some friends when the suspects attacked and assaulted him.

“Now, they came from behind him, because they saw him sitting down there, and they came from behind him, and one snatched he and pushed him to a fence.

Another one started chop-

West Demerara Regional Hospital.

He was further transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was treated and sent away.

The grieving mother stated that her son has suffered a fractured skull and is now out of a job. According to the woman, her son was the sole breadwinner.

“I don’t know what is going to happen, because he is my breadwinner. I have he and two other small ones

17-year-old Navindra Bharat

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17-year-old fisherman was on Monday brutally chopped to the head by three Venezuelan brothers at Cornelia Ida, West Coast Demerara (WCD).

The injured youth has been identified as Navindra Bharat, a fisherman of B Cornelia Ida. According to information received, on the day in question, the three suspects were physically abusing their sister-in-law, who sought refuge in the victim’s yard, but was sent away by the victim’s mother – Shelly Rasheed.

“We don’t understand how they are talking, so in light of them beating her on the street, she passed and saw me on my veranda sitting down, and she decided to come in. When she came in now, I said to her, ‘Girl, go out and collect your children them’, because she has three small children.”

She continued, “Eventually, she came out of the yard, and she left, and she walked away, and she didn’t collect her children them. The brothers-in-law them walking behind her, and they started cursing my son and me.”

Bharat was chopped in the head by the Venezuelan brothers

ping him in his head while another one had a bicycle chain and started lashing him, and he didn’t get to move. The four other boys that went there, they started running.”

She continued, “My daughter-in-law went at the gate stand up, and she saw and started running, going and started hollering, and then they ran away, but he had already chopped him up. He started walking coming up, and by the time he reached in front, he collapsed.”

A short while after, Bharat regained consciousness and was picked up and rushed to the Leonora Cottage Hospital, where he was treated before being transferred to the

and myself and all of us doing fishing work. He out of a job, I out of a job, and I don’t know what is going to happen.”

The single mother said that she was now fearful for her life and was hoping that the perpetrators be swiftly brought to justice.

"Yesterday afternoon (Wednesday), the Police came to do their investigations, and just as the Police went, they came and started again. They catch my daughter and beat her up. I called and called the station and begged them to send back the Police, and onto now, the Police have not come."

Police in a subsequent release noted that investigations were ongoing.

(Shemar Alleyne)

…as SOCU raids home of principals

Yuri Garcia-Dominguez (left) and his lawyer, Dexter Todd

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efunds to thousands of Guyanese who have invested millions of dollars in an alleged Ponzi scheme have come to an unexpected halt following a Police raid on the homes of the principals of Accelerated Capital Firm Inc (ACFI), Cuban national Yuri GarciaDominguez and his wife, Ateeka Ishmael.

This is according to the couple’s lawyer, Dexter Todd, who during a press conference on Thursday said that ranks from the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) – an arm of the Guyana Police Force – swooped down on his clients’ home at Coldingen, East Coast Demerara (ECD) on Wednesday in search of monies.

Todd informed that the ranks had a warrant to search and seize monies, devices, and financial documents that would assist in their money-laundering investigations. According to the lawyer, no monies were found, and instead, Police ranks seized several borrowed computers, cellphones and personal documents, including birth, marriage and Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) certificates.

ACFI had made a commitment to begin reimbursing investors from Monday, October 12, 2020. Those

payments continued into Tuesday, October 13, 2020 with only 27 investors being refunded to date. But Todd explained that the repayment process was now at a standstill as a result of the Police’s raid.

Todd informed: “The effect of the [search] is that the company is now not in a position to continue any forms of repayments to their clients.

So those persons who have invested, they will now have to hold on until this matter is cleared up whether it be through the civil court or further interventions with the Police department.

“And when those items are returned, then they [his clients] will be in a position to continue the payments to the thousands of investors who are requiring their monies. When I say the materials are gone, I mean the phones, the laptops… the codes to withdraw the bitcoins and to transfer the bitcoins into dollars,” Todd continued.

Todd further informed investors of ACFI that this was not his clients’ fault, but that of agents of the State who have insisted on harassing the couple and abusing their power. The lawyer related that he was currently advising his clients and there was a possibility that civil rights proceedings would be instituted against the Police Force

Illegal mining operation found, destroyed in South Rupununi

Entrance to one of the tunnels

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arlier in the week, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), in col-

laboration with the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Geology and Mines

Commission (GGMC), unearthed a massive illegal mining operation in the New River Basin, South Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

According to the GDF, the team located the camp and discovered three tunnels, one of which was abandoned, while the others were deemed active. The team also discovered several pieces of equipment, including a satellite dish. No one was at the camp at that time.

The GDF noted that owing to the location’s remoteness, seizure of the equipment was not feasible, so it was subsequently destroyed.

Investigators believe that the persons who were conducting the mining operations may have been utilising an illegal airstrip in Brazil, located some two miles south of the GuyanaBrazil border.

The New River Basin is designated as a Rare Earth

An aerial view of the illegal mining operation

Mineral Reserve, and as such, mining is strictly prohibited in the area.

Recently, the Iwokrama International Centre disclosed that it would be mulling the use of cameras and drones to manage the protected rainforest as illegal activities increase within the area.

In a statement, the rainforest conservation body indicated that there was a proliferation of single-person operations. These opera-

tions appear to use metal detectors and spades.

Discoveries were made of “several four-inch dredges and substantive destruction to the forest floor”.

According to the Centre, persons were taking advantage of the COVID-19 situation to carry out these illegal activities. Persons guilty of any illegal related practices can be fined $100,000 or face imprisonment for a period of one year.

as the actions of its ranks were uncalled for.

He noted that Police ranks searched his clients’ home for two hours and during the process, he was unable to speak with them although they requested their lawyer as is their constitutional right.

“The actions of SOCU were uncalled for. It was unprofessional and all it did was interrupt the repayment of monies to investors,” Todd stated.

According to Todd, the couple have every intention of repaying investors since some of them are in desperate need of their monies in light of the COVID-19 situation. He added that GarciaDominguez and his wife have always been transparent and cooperative with Police investigations.

Meanwhile, speaking at the press conference, GarciaDominguez denied being involved in money laundering activities and insisted that his company only traded on the stock markets which are legal all over the world. He admitted that the only offence he has committed was operating without a licence from the Guyana Securities Council and said that he was prepared to face the consequences in that regard.

Garcia-Dominguez revealed that apart from facing 70-plus charges for obtaining monies under false pretence, he and his wife have also been charged in relation to operating without a licence and running a pyramid scheme.

ACFI has since ceased all its operations in Guyana.

“For some reason, the SOCU department believe that we have millions of dollars hidden somewhere else. We had the opportunity to show the funds are out there [and] not in Guyana.

Everything that is happening does not make sense,” added Garcia-Dominguez, who claimed that a number of threatening phone calls have been made to his family.

On behalf of his clients, Todd has filed judicial review proceedings in the High Court, asking that all charges and investigations against them be discontinued immediately.

The case comes up for a case management conference on Wednesday, November 4, 2020 before acting Chief Justice Roxane George. In the meantime, the couple have been released on over $30 million bail with instructions to lodge their passports and report to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters.

NEWS

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Man challenges 62-year jail sentence for 2012 killing of brothers

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bdul Budhoo, who in 2017 was sentenced to 62 years’ imprisonment for the 2012 killing of two brothers at Mackenzie in Linden, has filed an appeal against his conviction and sentence, deeming the sentence severe.

Through his lawyer Mark Conway, Budhoo is, among other things, contending that the trial judge erred in law regarding a finding of provocation relative to directions given to the jury for the killing of one of the brothers, Shaheed Bacchus, who is also his cousin.

The appeal comes up for hearing on Monday, November 02, 2020 at the Guyana Appeal Court.

At the commencement of his trial before Justice Navindra Singh, State Prosecutors indicted Budhoo on two counts of murder over the September 30, 2012 killings of Shaheed Bacchus and his brother Imran.

He had pleaded not guilty to both charges, but was subsequently found guilty by a jury of murdering Shaheed, and was sentenced to 62 years’ imprisonment.

As it relates to the killing of Imran, Budhoo was found guilty of the lesser count of manslaughter, and was sentenced to 32 years’ imprisonment. The Judge had ordered that the sentences are to be served concurrently.

According to reports, on the day in question, there was an argument between Budhoo and his cousin Shaheed over an outstanding financial payment.

Shaheed’s brother Imran intervened, and both brothers were stabbed during the altercation.

Budhoo’s lawyer has taken issue with the directions given by the trial

Abdul Budhoo

judge to the jury in regard to a finding of provocation in relation to the killing of Shaheed. The lawyer argues that if the judge had appropriately directed the jurors, there is a possibility that they may have returned a manslaughter verdict in relation to the killing of Shaheed.

According to Conway, in the records of appeal, Justice Singh stated: ‘If, in other words, you [the jury] are sure that he reacted with thought and deliberation when he stabbed Shaheed, provocation does not apply.’

The lawyer said the judge, in his direction to the jury, continued, “If you reject this partial defence of provocation and you feel satisfied so that you are sure that the accused intended to kill or cause seriously bodily harm when he inflicted those injuries to Shaheed Bacchus, then you are entitled to find that the accused had the requisite intent for the crime charged; that is, murder.”

“So, he did not have that mental element, that intention to kill or cause grievous bodily harm, but his action even without the mental element, his action caused the death,” Conway said the judge further stated in his

directions to the jury.

Conway therefore submitted that the totality of the inference and or literal meaning based upon the words and/or sentences used by the trial judge in his directions to the jury regarding the absence of intention in finding provocation leads to a material misdirection.

This misdirection, Conway argues, may have affected the jurors, who may have formed a belief that a finding of provocation is impossible where the accused had an intention to kill. “…such an erroneous belief meant that the appellant may have been robbed of a possibility of a verdict of manslaughter against Shaheed Bacchus,” Conway further contends.

Citing the case of Kubert George vs The State, which was decided by the very Guyana Appeal Court, Conway noted that the court set aside the conviction for murder and substituted a verdict of manslaughter, and instituted a sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment.

Further, Conway is contending that the 32year sentence for the manslaughter verdict in relation to the killing of Imran, having considered the facts of the offences and the trial judge’s failure to apply established principles of sentencing, rendered this sentence unjustified.

Citing relevant case laws, Conway said Justice Navindra Singh failed to fully credit his client for any time he spent in custody prior to sentencing when he recorded in the Records of Appeal that “Time on remand is to be deducted at the discretion of the trial judge.”

The specific case law referred to by Conway was R Da Costa Hall vs the Queen, in which it was held that

GTT to offer special deals at 2-day CH&PA housing drive

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TT will be offering special service deals at the upcoming Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) two-day housing drive slated for this weekend at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

GTT’s Field and Tele Sales Lead, Kester Abrams noted that the special deals would include free SIM cards; double top-ups; smartphone deals from as low as $14,000 which comes with a free Bluetooth speaker and portable charger; and a chance to sign up for Blaze, DSL and MMG+ services among others.

“As we work to take our services and customer offers to the next level, we are also trying to meet our cus-

GTT’s Field and Tele Sales Lead, Kester Abrams

tomers, the Guyanese public, where they are. Let’s complete your applications for you – all you need to do is walk with your identification card (ID),” Abrams explained.

He added that persons should not miss this most convenient opportunity to visit the GTT booth to take advantage of everything the company has to offer. He invited customers to “...come out, walk with your ID card and let our team do the work for you”.

Additionally, Abrams explained that the GTT teams would be offering similar deals at the Corriverton Market on Saturday, October 17, 2020 from 07:00h to 11:00h.

“We have recently extended the Blaze service to Corriverton, so we are encouraging residents to come out and register for the service. We’re making it even easier to apply – by coming to you,” he noted.

Imran Bacchus

“Upon sentencing, full credit should be given for any time spent in custody prior to sentencing, particularly (per de la Bastide P, Nelson, Saunders and Bernard JJ) where conditions endured by prisoners on remand were more onerous than those after sentence, subject to a residual discretion in the sentencing judge not to apply the primary rule, as for…” “It is respectfully submitted that, on the facts, there is no reason or evidence stated on the Record of Appeal to dissuade the application of the primary rule as stated in R Da Costa Hall vs the Queen…and therefore it must be stated that the minimum period of incarceration includes the time spent on remand,” Conway submitted.

In calculating a sentence on the manslaughter conviction, Conway outlined that the trial judge started at a

base of 35 years from which a deduction of three years was made for the favourable probation report for his client. Conway has further submitted that the appeal against the severity of the sentence for the offence of manslaughter has merit, as the trial judge erred in law by failing to apply case law principles that promote fairness in sentencing.

The lawyer submitted that the Sentencing Guidelines Council, in its guideline for manslaughter by reason of provocation, notes that a number of elements had to be considered and balanced by the sentencer, such as the degree of the provocation, the extent and timing of the retaliation, the circumstances of the killing, the relationship between the offender and the victim, the behaviour of the offender after the killing, and the type of weapon used and whether it had been to hand or had been carried to the scene.

Against this backdrop, he argues that the foregoing can be argued in favour of Budhoo, who did not enter into the altercation with a weapon [knife] in hand, and at that time he had no intention to kill or cause grievous bodily harm, although he had the knife on his person.

The lawyer noted that his client did not use the weapon at the onset, but until he had a ‘sudden and temporary loss of self-con-

Shaheed Bacchus

trol’. In fact, Conway noted, “…the weapon was used two to three minutes after the cuffing/punching had started, which is the likely act of being hit by [Shaheed] that gave rise to the provocation…”

Based upon the events as stated by one of the Prosecution’s witnesses regarding the death of Imran, Conway argues that his client may not have intended to kill him, but due to his sudden and temporary loss of self-control, he attacked anyone at the said instant who was within his reach.

In light of the circumstances, Conway is asking the Appeal Court to substitute his client’s murder conviction with manslaughter, and to reduce the sentence imposed on the manslaughter conviction, as it is manifestly excessive and not in keeping with established sentencing guidelines.

Region 6 records increase in break-and-enter and larceny

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here has been an increase in reported cases of break-and-enter and larceny in Region Six (East Berbice/Corentyne) for 2020, while a decrease in armed robberies has been recorded.

This is according to Region 6 Police Commander Linden Isles, who told the media that the Police have thus far recorded 83 cases of break-and-enter and larceny, compared to 42 for the corresponding period last year.

In regard to robberies in which firearms were used, there were 10 reported cases, compared to 27 last year.

So far, for this year, the region has recorded 12 murders, which balances off with last year’s figures.

Robbery-under-arms wherein firearms were not used were recorded at 11 for this year, the same amount when compared with the corresponding period last year.

“We are doing better than last year, but we have to look at our break-and-enter and larceny (reports).

We have been working on it, and I can assure you that, by the end of this year, we will be looking at a minus

Police Commander Linden Isles

when we compare the figures with last year as it relates to break-and-enter and larceny,” the commander noted.

Meanwhile, there were 13 fatal accidents thus far for the year, resulting in the deaths of 13 persons. This also saw a decrease from last year’s incidents, when 17 deaths were recorded from 14 accidents. Over the past two months, only one fatal accident was recorded, in which the lives of three persons were lost; and only last Sunday, a former teach-

er lost her life after the motorbike she was on hit a road-rail, pitching her into the air.

“We have been talking to persons and we have also been doing some educational programmes, and it has been working; so, we will continue to educate the public as it relates to the use of the roads,” the commander said.

Meanwhile, for the year thus far, no one has been placed before the courts for driving under the influence of alcohol.

According to Isles, as a result of COVID-19, efforts are being made to minimise the number of persons being placed before the courst.

As such, persons are being placed before the courts only for allegedly committing serious offences.

Asked if someone is found to be driving while seriously over the legal limit of alcohol whether that person would be allowed to go free, Isles said the current position that the Traffic Department has adopted is not license to drive while over the limit of alcohol.

“They will be charged,” the Regional Commander posited.

18 NEWS

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

60 years’ jail for taxi driver found guilty of stabbing ex-lover to death

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Alan Sim

lan Sim, 60, was on Thursday found guilty by a 12-person jury of the November 2015 murder of Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH) ambulance dispatcher Melissa Skeete.

Following the summing up of the evidence by Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, the case was put to the jury for deliberation on a verdict.

The verdict was unanimous.

Based on reports, on the day in question, Sim picked up the mother of four from her place of work in his motorcar, PRR 6801, but sometime after, she was discovered near Carmichael Street, Georgetown, lying face-down and bleeding profusely from several stab wounds. The woman died while receiving treatment at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH).

Three months after Sim was charged with the murder of Skeete, his son, Alan Sim Jr., was charged with being an accessory to the crime. According to the charge against the younger Sim, between November 23 and November 25, 2015,

at Georgetown, he received, comforted, maintained and relieved his father after his father had murdered Skeete.

The younger Sim was not required to plead to the indictable charge. He is currently awaiting trial for the offence at the High Court.

Murder accused Alan Sim was represented by Attorney-at-Law Adrian Thompson, while State Counsel Tuanna Hardy appeared for the Prosecution.

The trial was conducted by Justice Priya SewnarineBeharry at the High Court in Demerara. During the trial, Police Inspectors Salesh Roopnarine and Suraj Singh told the jury that they interviewed Sim in relation to the murder of Skeete, during which he told them a story.

According to the Inspectors, Sim told them that he and Skeete shared a relationship that resulted in a child being born. He further told the detectives that, one day, he went to the woman’s house at Lot 94 Prince William Street, Plaisance, East Coast Demerara and, to his surprise, she ran in the house.

Sim told the Police witness that he hit one of the windows and broke the glass.

He said that when he peeped into the house, he saw a man from Paradise, East Coast Demerara. The Police ranks testified that Sim related to them that he asked Skeete, “how she cud do that”, when he had already paid her rent and bought her a pump.

Sim further related to detectives that on November 23, 2015, he went to Skeete’s workplace, the GPH, and picked her up in his motorcar; and as they were driving through Carmichael

Murdered: Melissa Skeete

Street, Georgetown, an argument erupted.

According to Inspectors Roopnarine and Singh, Sim said that Skeete pulled out a surgical blade and attempted to stab him, but he took away same from her and stabbed her instead. He further related to them that the woman ran out the car while bleeding, and he drove away and hid the vehicle.

They said that Sim told them, “Me never expect this thing to go down suh.”

Inspector Roopnarine testified that he made an entry regarding what Sim told him, but Sim refused to sign same, based on advice from his lawyer.

Skeete’s teen son testified that during the month of November 2015, he lived at the aforementioned address with his mother and siblings. According to the teenager, Sim was his mother’s boyfriend. He testified that at the time of his mother’s death, she was living at the aforesaid address with her other boyfriend, Junior [only name given].

Asked by the Prosecutor when was the last time he had seen Sim, the teenager stated that he had last seen him the night he broke the window of his mother’s home. Reflecting on that

night, the teen testified that he was in his bed when he “heard a glass break.”

The young man added that he thought it was the glass table, but he next saw Sim at the window cursing his mother. He added that his mother and Sim were “cussing out” while her next boyfriend was at home.

After the “cussing out”, the teen stated, Sim went downstairs and said that if he cannot get to kill his mother he will come for her children, before driving away. He noted that at the time of the incident, his other siblings were at home.

Defence Attorney to make no-case submission as Gary Best’s trial continues

Former GDF Chief-of-Staff Gary Best

T

he prosecution on Thursday closed its case in the proceedings against former Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Chiefof-Staff, Retired Rear Admiral Gary Best, who is accused of causing the death of former national cyclist Jude Bentley in a road acci-

dent.

The Police Prosecutor closed the case against Best, and as a result, defence attorney Nigel Hughes is expected to lay over a nocase submission to trial Magistrate Rondel Weever when the matter continues next week.

According to the charges against Best, on February 8, 2020, at Clive Lloyd Drive, Greater Georgetown, he drove a motor vehicle, PRR 8182, in a manner dangerous to the public, thereby causing the death of Bentley.

It was further alleged that on the same day and at the same location, he drove the motor vehicle while his blood alcohol level was 85 micrograms, which is above the legal limit.

In relation to the causing death charge, Best, an executive member of the

Dead: Former national cyclist Jude Bentley

People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), pleaded not guilty and was ordered to post $500,000 bail. In relation to the charge of driving under the influence, he was released on his own recognizance (self-bail).

As a condition of bail, Best was ordered to report

to the Police Force’s Traffic Headquarters on specified dates until the completion of his trial.

Bentley, 41, was struck down and run over by the vehicle allegedly driven by Best on Clive Lloyd Drive near the Russian Embassy turn.

Reports are that, at the time of the accident, both Best and Bentley were travelling in an easterly direction.

Investigators found that Best was driving under the influence of alcohol.

After the accident, Best was taken into custody, but later complained of feeling unwell and, as such, was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was admitted. Best was a former Presidential Advisor under the David Granger Administration.

OAS: In danger of undermining the ‘Right to Protect’

By Sir Ronald Sanders

A

noteworthy event occurred on the afternoon of Saturday, October 10, that could have implications for nations across the globe. It merits attention.

The Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), Luis Almagro, issued a statement indicating that he “designated international human rights lawyer Jared Genser as Special Adviser on the Responsibility to Protect (R2P)”. This appointment happened when the OAS is again facing dire financial circumstances and staff contracts are not being renewed.

Still, even in such difficult circumstances, an appointment of someone greatly needed to carry out the Organization’s work would be understandable.

The difficulty with this appointment is that it is not a priority identified either by ministers of member states or the Permanent Council of the OAS. Further, R2P is, rightfully, a matter on the agenda of the United

Nations General Assembly and under the authority of the Security Council.

Consequently, it is intriguing that, in his statement, Almagro said unequivocally that: “If existing international mechanisms are not responding to the demands and needs of the victims of mass atrocities in the Americas, at the very least, the OAS should try to design and build a regional mechanism that can prevent and respond more efficiently, and in a timely manner, to crimes of this nature in the Western Hemisphere”.

Whether intended or not, this sounds like a dismissal of the UN Security Council and an arrogation by the OAS to act in its place “in the Americas”.

It is important to note that R2P was unanimously endorsed by the member states of the United Nations at a World Summit in 2005.

The agreement is designed to protect people the world over from four crimes: “genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and ethnic cleansing”. The question arises, therefore, about

the identity of the countries “in the Americas” where Almagro suggests that such crimes are being committed, and against which action is required “more efficiently, and in a timely manner”.

If such countries exist in the Americas, why have they not been brought before the UN Security Council? And why is this matter not being raised for discussion, with the evidence of atrocities, by member governments of the OAS in appropriate bodies of the Organization?

The way this matter has crawled into the OAS – not in the full light of transparent discussion and decision, but in a weekend media statement from the Secretary General – is why suspicion surrounds the OAS. It is a suspicion with which all its member states are tainted as complicit.

Silence is taken as consent.

A further consideration is that the R2P does not replace the UN Charter; R2P is an UN-led response to the problem of mass-atrocity crimes, and actions in furtherance of it require UN Security Council authorisation. Therefore, why would

the OAS – a group of only 33 governments – seek to usurp the UN of 193 states, and a 15-state Security Council?

Dr Adrian Gallagher, co-director of the European Centre for the Responsibility to Protect, makes the following salient point: “R2P does allow states to consider all coercive and non-coercive measures under Chapters VI, VII, and VIII of the UN Charter when a government is “manifestly failing” to protect its population from the four crimes. Though this does include the use of force, any action taken has to be authorised by the UN Security Council”.

In his statement, Almagro makes another point that merits attention. He says: “The costs of not having an R2P regional mechanism at the OAS so far have been the continued loss of human lives and the persistence of impunity for mass atrocities’ crimes”. He continues: “Yet, over time, there have been mass atrocities committed in far too many countries by repressive and undemocratic regimes”.

Sadly, where there have been such instances in the past, in OAS countries, governments of other OAS member states have ignored them for narrow political reasons. Such politically selective and convenient responses must stop if the OAS is to have any credibility in advancing the principle of R2P. In this regard, another observation by Dr Gallagher is worth recalling: “It is important that those who champion the R2P do not overstate the scale of the crimes being committed. OAS Secretary General Luis Almagro has invoked the Rwandan genocide as a pretext to justify R2P action in Venezuela, but clearly any such analogy is deeply flawed, as there is no pending threat of mass genocide”.

To be clear, the principle of R2P should be embraced by every country in the world. Every government should uphold the human, civil and political rights of its people, not oppress them, and certainly not murder them or eliminate any ethnic group

within them. Where governments execute heinous atrocities, the wider international community, particularly neighbouring states, should act to prevent and punish them within the UN agreed framework.

The OAS should be discussing this openly and transparently, paying attention to every country in the Americas, and not just to those where the political or ideological interests of powerful states are served, one way or the other. If the OAS continues on the selective path that it has followed, it will reverse every step that it now makes to be regarded universally as a credible and respected organisation. That is not an OAS that will serve the peoples of the Americas well.

As a regional organisation, the OAS should not seek to supplant global efforts at the UN; it would better serve the region and the world by providing objective and non-discriminatory leadership in upholding and advancing the principle of R2P within the UN agreement of 2005.

19 Frontline workers 1st to get COVID-19 vaccine NEWS

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

– other at-risk groups will be prioritised

H

ealth Minister, Dr Frank Anthony has said the Government will ensure its frontline workers are the first to benefit from the COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes available.

Currently, the Health Ministry is in discussion with several countries who are actively pursuing a vaccine.

“We have had initial discussions with the Government of India.

Through those discussions, we know that India will be working to produce at least one billion doses of vaccines for some time early next year. Once the trial goes through to the phase three trial that shows it is working, then they [India] will produce one billion doses of vaccines,” Minister Anthony said during Thursday’s COVID-19 update.

Discussions were also held with Argentina. That country is working on producing 250 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines, some of which will be made available to countries in South America.

In early September, Guyana’s President, Dr

for these vaccines, so they have created a financial mechanism where they will work with researchers trying to discover these vaccines, take it through the phase three trial and then work with manufacturers.

We have been assured that whatever the cost of the vaccines, through COVAX, that GAVI will cover a substantial portion of those costs for

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony

Mohamed Irfaan Ali and Argentina’s President, Alberto Fernandez had discussed regional collaboration and support in the fight against COVID-19.

Since then, Minister Anthony has held follow-up meetings with both the Argentine Health Minister and that country’s Ambassador to Guyana.

“So, we will see how those discussions progress. We have also had discussions with the Ambassador here from Russia and as you know, they have one vaccine that right now is in clinical

trials in Russia. So, we will see what comes out of the clinical trials and whether we can be able to utilise such vaccines here,” the Minister said.

Additionally, Minister Anthony related that Guyana could utilise the COVAX Facility for payment. The facility is a global initiative that brings together governments and manufacturers to ensure eventual COVID-19 vaccines reach those in greatest need.

“They realise that many countries around the world might not be able to pay

Guyana among countries selected for IDB tourism project design

T

he Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), through its innovation laboratory – IDB Lab, has announced that eight proposals were selected for project design under the Beyond Tourism Challenge .

Guyana was along the list of applicant countries selected, which included Barbados, Belize, the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Haiti, Panam,a and Trinidad and Tobago.

Through collaboration with the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), the Beyond Tourism Challenge was launched in June, seeking to stimulate reimagining the sector post-COVID, while embracing digital transformation.

“The challenge looked to identify innovations in two categories: development of the tourism workforce, in need of acquiring new digital skills for the recovery phase post-COVID and environmental sustainability, to implement clean technologies and circular economy models, climate-smart agricultural practices, and protection of natural habitats,” the IDB said.

The Challenge attracted

Public and Private Sector candidates from around the world to implement projects in the 15 target countries: The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Nicaragua, Panama, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago.

A full 214 applications were submitted from organisations in 28 countries, with proposals ranging from waste management and safety protocols to preservation of natural capital and eco-tourism. Evaluation criteria included the degree of innovation, the degree of social and environmental impact, scalability potential, financial sustainability, and viability of execution.

“An internal due diligence process to evaluate the capacity of the applicant entities was conducted by IDB Group specialists, and the UNWTO also provided its technical expertise during the evaluation process.

Selected applicants will initiate project design towards being considered for IDB Lab financing to pilot their innovative models in the eight mentioned countries. These selected applicants will be-

come part of IDB Group’s network of global innovators working in the Region to reinvent the tourism industry and support its recovery efforts,” the Bank said.

Guyana had proposed “Safe Lodges Equal Safe Guests”, which encompassed the design and rollout of health and safety protocols for visitors and host communities, a mobile tracing and tracking system, and upskilling of tourism operators to allow for a safe reopening of eco-tourism in Guyana’s magnificent Northern Rupununi region.

“In Barbados, the focus was “Better Batteries” or an energy-as-a-service model to accelerate the hotel industry´s access to renewable energy, utilising a battery-storage solution with an IoT [Internet of Things] framework enabling external control and data analytics.

Costa Rica suggested an “INTO Experiential Camps & Lodges”, which is dubbed as a platform to bring together social eco-tourism with land and marine conservation towards regenerative interaction with nature and oneself.

Over in the Dominican Republic, the winning project was the “Green Fins Hub – Digital scaling for sustainable marine tourism”, a firstof-its-kind online platform to empower marine tourism businesses to measurably improve compliance with internationally-recognised environmental standards, safeguard biodiversity, and stimulate green tourism.

Guyana,” the Minister said.

GAVI is a global vaccine alliance which brings together the public and private sectors with the shared goal of creating equal access to new and underused vaccines for children living in the world’s poorest countries. GAVI’s support usually goes to the world’s poorest countries, based on national income.

In 2011, Guyana was among four countries in the Americas which began the process of graduating out of GAVI when its gross national income surpassed US$1500 per capita, the threshold for GAVI eligibility. However, support for immunisation programmes continued as the country remained eligible for GAVI support.

Investigative team meets healthcare workers across country

Nurses protesting in Georgetown

A

n investigative team comprising representatives from the Guyana Government and the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) have visited public health facilities and met with health-care workers across the country.

Over the past week, nurses and other health-care workers on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic have been protesting, calling for increased risk allowances among other benefits. But the GPSU has since called off its planned strike action and is now working with Government to address the concerns of the healthcare workers. Last week, the Union said it would give Government two weeks to do this.

In a statement on Wednesday, the GPSU said that the team visited health-care facilities within Regions Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara); Five (Mahaica-Berbice); Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice) and the Georgetown Public Hospital.

During these visits, the team met with all categories of frontline healthcare workers and the management representatives at each facility. A number of issues was raised by the health-care workers ranging from inadequate provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) to non-payment of risk allowances for working during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Of significance at each of the locations, there was general support from the health workers that all categories of health workers must be classified as frontline workers and also must be paid

a risk allowance, since the nature of the work within the health-care facilities required that all categories of health-care workers come into contact with a COVID19-infected person, knowingly or unknowingly, while performing their legitimate duties. That is, attendants will be the first line of contact in the chain of events leading up to the persons’ eventual testing and subsequent admission to the COVID-19 Unit, where the doctors, nurses and other ancillary staff will continue to provide further supportive care,” the Union posited.

Nevertheless, the GPSU said it was pleased with the team’s interface with the health-care workers thus far, noting that the positive outcomes and views solicited during this exercise were very enlightening and encouraging.

Moreover, the Union is anticipating “an urgent and positive response from the Government as it relates to the payment of the risk allowances to these hardworking health-care workers. The GPSU also regards all other work-related issues as equally important and commits to the pursuit of a favourable resolution to these issues in a timely manner.”

Only last week, President Irfaan Ali had assured nurses and other health-care workers that there would be major improvements to their livelihood under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration.

“I want to assure the nurses that within our five-year term, they will see a monumental improvement not only in their salaries and benefits but in their overall livelihood and in their

overall quality of life. We’re here just over 65 days and we have a five-year agenda,” the Head of State declared during an interview last Wednesday with local Journalist Gordon Moseley.

According to President Ali, the issue has to be looked at in a holistic manner in relation to the current state of the country’s economy. He noted that frontline workers were not only benefiting from the $150 million that was set aside in the 2020 Emergency Budget but other measures aimed at relieving the burden of every Guyanese such as the $25,000 cash grant and the removal of VAT on electricity and water.

Nevertheless, the Head of State explained that there were some specific commitments that the PPP/C made in its manifesto regarding nurses and health-care workers, along with all other categories of workers, and will work to ensure these were fulfilled during its tenure.

In fact, he noted that the issue of wages and salaries is currently being considered in preparations for Budget 2021.

“Whilst we know [the nurses] are operating in the COVID environment – just like every other frontline worker and there is greater risk, and we appreciate that, we have to work within the confines of the economy.

I want to assure the nurses that this Government is committed towards ensuring our promises and commitment to them over the five-year period are realised.

I can assure them that their lives and their families’ lives are gonna improve tremendously,” President Ali promised.

20

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2020

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS OPEC chief assures markets that oil prices won’t crash again

T

he Organisation of Petroleum-Exporting Countries-plus (OPEC+) group will look to ensure that prices do not plummet again as they did in the spring, OPEC’s Secretary General Mohammad Barkindo said on the Energy Intelligence Forum on Thursday.

“I want to assure you that the OPEC, non-OPEC partnership will continue to do what it knows best, by ensuring that we don’t relapse into this almost historic plunge that we saw,” Barkindo said, replying to a question whether the market could handle another two million barrels per day (bpd) if OPEC+ further relaxes the current cuts in January as planned.

OPEC+ believes that the worst of the crisis is behind us, but the recovery is going slower than expected earlier this year, with demand still struggling, OPEC’s chief said at the forum.

Keeping market stability is the top priority of the OPEC+ agreement, but “We have no illusions this recovery will take a long time,” Barkindo added.

OPEC is optimistic, however, in the recovery next year, expecting a strong rebound in global economy, the head of the cartel said, noting that “We have no doubt a vaccine will be available next year.”

Earlier this week, Russia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) expressed views that OPEC+ would be able to ease the cuts as of January, as planned.

The alliance is optimistic that it will be able to gradually ease the production cuts from January, despite surging coronavirus cases in many countries, Russia’s Energy Minister Alexander Novak said. (Excerpt from Oil Price)

Bhanu Athaiya: Costume designer who won India's 1st Oscar dies

Director Richard Attenborough asked Bhanu Athaiya to work on the Oscar-winning film about Mahatma Gandhi

C

elebrated Bollywood costume designer Bhanu Athaiya, India's first Oscar winner, has died at the age of 91, her family says.

She was bedridden in recent years after being diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2012, her family said. She died peacefully in the city of Mumbai.

Athaiya was renowned for designing costumes for top filmmakers in a career that spanned nearly five decades.

She shared an Oscar for her work on a biopic about Mahatma Gandhi in 1983.

The invitation by British filmmaker Richard Attenborough to work on the film about the Indian independence leader shot her

to global prominence. She shared the award for the Best Costume Design with acclaimed British designer John Mollo.

Athaiya had worked on more than 100 movies since the 1950s with noted filmmakers such as Guru Dutt, Yash Chopra and Raj Kapoor. She also worked on many Bollywood classics, including the Oscarnominated film “Lagaan” in 2001.

In tributes, Athaiya has been revered as a "great" of cinema fashion whose award-winning costumes "put India on the world map".

Athaiya is survived by her daughter, Radhika Gupta. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Coronavirus: France reports more than 30,000 new infections

F

rance has reported a large jump in new COVID-19 cases ahead of a night-time curfew being imposed on Paris and eight other cities on Saturday.

A further 30,621 infections were confirmed on Thursday, up from 22,591 the day before.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned that tough restrictions are "absolutely necessary" to save lives.

Millions in Europe have been told they must live under strict new measures as Governments battle a second wave.

From Saturday, socialising indoors will be banned in London, as the UK capital and other areas of England will be put under a higher COVID-19 alert.

Measures against coronavirus are being ramped up in cities across Europe

As well as France, Italy, Poland and Germany all recorded their largest daily rise in new cases on Thursday since mass testing began.

Russia recorded its highest number of daily fatalities since the start of the epidemic with 286 people reported to have died from

the virus.

The WHO urged European Governments "to step up" and take action as the continent passed a threshold of 1000 deaths reported daily.

New restrictions were announced on Wednesday

by President Emmanuel Macron to combat the soar-

ing infection rate across France.

Residents of Paris, its suburbs and eight other cities, including Marseille and Lyon, will not be able to leave their homes without "valid" reason between 21:00h and 06:00h from Saturday for at least four weeks. Macron said he aimed to reduce the daily rise in cases to 3000.

Prime Minister Jean Castex said Police would be deployed to enforce the curfew, but people would still be allowed to leave for work or to visit hospital or the pharmacy.

On Thursday, French Police raided the homes of senior government and health officials as part of an investigation into their handling of the pandemic.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Central Americans US$205K in aid sent edge north as pandemic to stranded Trinis spurs economic collapse T

A

fter losing her job in Honduras, Gabriela Alvarado has spent the last six weeks crisscrossing towards the US border, part of a small but growing movement of Central Americans heading north after the coronavirus ravaged the already poor region.

Alvarado and her husband, Jose, decided their only option was to leave their two children with relatives and try to reach the United States, after a fruitless hunt for work at home.

“I went searching, but there’s nothing, everything is shut down,” the 24-yearold former factory worker said on Tuesday from the northern Mexican border state of Sonora. “There’s no employment.”

Earlier this year, USbound migration plummeted as Central American and Caribbean countries imposed strict restrictions on movement in response to the growing coronavirus pandemic, and the United States implemented a new programme of rapidly expelling people caught crossing the border without authorisation.

The historic lockdowns threw the Region’s well-trodden migration routes into such chaos that some “coyotes” – human smugglers – reversed course and began moving stranded Central Americans south to their home countries.

Now, only weeks before the US presidential election, the Region’s complex migration machinery is reactivating, smugglers, experts and migrants say, as the collapse of Central America’s economies pushes families deeper into poverty, creating what could become a light-

ning rod political issue for the next US Administration.

US Border Patrol conducted nearly 55,000 expulsions or apprehensions of migrants at the southwest border in September, according to new data from US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), a 238 per cent increase from April.

Around two thirds were Mexican nationals, a DHS spokesman told Reuters, while Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador were the next three largest countries of origin. (Excerpt from Reuters)

rinidad and Tobago has distributed US$205,958.99 to 298 stranded nationals through five overseas missions between August and September.

The money was humanitarian aid announced by the Prime Minister during the initial period of COVID-19 restrictions which included closure of the country’s borders in March. The borders remain closed.

The five overseas T&T missions used to distribute the money were the High Commission in London, the Consulate General in Miami, the Consulate General in New York, the Embassy in Washington, DC and the

Nearly 10,000 soldiers from DR deployed to border with Haiti

N

early 10,000 soldiers from the Dominican Republic have been deployed to the border it shares with Haiti in an effort to contain the illegal trafficking in undocumented migrants.

The strong military presence at the border that separates the French-speaking Caribbean Community (Caricom) nation from the Dominican Republic on the island of Hispaniola, was ordered by Lieutenant General Carlos Luciano Díaz Morfa, the Defence Minister in the Dominican Republic , who explained that the armed forces manage and improve actions to control the illicit trafficking of people, goods, and drugs.

“The old-fashioned idea of a neglected, poorly-guarded border region, laden with ill-equipped and isolated military posts, is a thing of the past,” the neighbouring country's top military offi-

cial said earlier this week.

The Defence Minister revealed that border surveillance is in charge of 8672 members of the Army, who have now been joined by 153 navies; 83 from the air force; 702 from the Specialised Corps of border security (Cesfront); 18 from the specialised port security corps and 120 intelligence specialists from the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

He said the bulk of the 9748 deployed across the border is made up of officers, soldiers, and who are all part of the security and defence system of land and sea borders.

The visual surveillance system is connected to the Command, Control, Communication and Security Center-C5i, to monitor in real time, all movements at border crossings, military posts, checkpoints, informal routes and other means. (Excerpt from CMC)

Consulate General in Toronto.

Foreign and Caricom Affairs Minister Amery Browne shared the information with Newsday on Wednesday, in response to questions submitted about nationals abroad, particularly in the UK. Questions were sent to Browne after United Kingdom Member of Parliament (MP) Steve Baker, during questions to that country’s Foreign Office Minister, Wendy Morton in Parliament on Tuesday, said Trinidad’s stranded nationals, some of whom are staying in his constituency, were terrified and “burning through their savings”. Morton answered by saying her office was in touch with its counterpart in T&T. Baker then called on Morton to join him in calling on the T&T Government to make sure their citizens get home. “I think it’s our common humanity to enable people to return to protect their homes.”

In his response to Newsday, Browne said Government was cognisant of the “very serious challenges” many nationals who normally reside in T&T but were abroad when the borders closed now face.

He pointed to the shift in policy that Dr Rowley announced for an increased rate of granting travel exemptions by the National Security Ministry.

“This adjustment has been made and more nationals have been getting the opportunity to travel home. The existing limitations are guided by protocols of our public health officials, and once the COVID-19 numbers continue to improve, our nationals can anticipate further improvements in the ease of return.”

Throughout the past six months, many citizens hoping to return home have expressed feelings of frustration and hopelessness. (Excerpt from Trinidad Newsday)

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2020

21

ARCHIE

ARIES (March 21April 19)

Step aside if it will help you keep the peace. Now is not the time to start an argument with someone who can influence your prospects.

Jump at the chance to TAURUS make a change. Head in a (April 20direction that excites you.

May 20) Follow your heart and explore the future with optimism.

DILBERT

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

CANCER (June 21July 22)

PEANUTS

CALVIN AND HOBBES

You’ll be caught between a rock and a hard place if you let someone drag you into their fight.

Quiet support is the best way to handle a difficult situation.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Keep your money and possessions safe. Don’t take a risk or get involved in joint ventures.

Make a change that will protect you from loss and encourage you to learn more about how best to handle your finances.

LIBRA

A financial change is heading your way. Be careful not to act in haste when patience is required.

Keep an open mind, but don’t be emotionally impulsive.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

Last published word -- RICOTTA

When in doubt, sit tight.

Be observant, but don’t meddle. Keep the peace now, and you will be in a better position to get your way in the end. Enjoy what life has to offer.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

You can’t please everyone, so do what’s best for you. Keep your intentions to yourself until you have established the best way to proceed. Too much talk will give someone a chance to interfere with your plans.

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

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

Take care of responsibilities quickly and then move on to more enjoyable pastimes. Discuss your thoughts and feelings with a loved one. Romance is on the rise.

Take on a challenge that will spark your enthusiasm. An invitation to attend a reunion may tempt you, but consider your safety, health and well-being before you accept it.

Don’t make a premature move. Bide your time and pay attention to detail. Do things right the first time.

Discuss your plans with those who will be affected by them.

Take care of unfinished business. Once you know where you stand, you will find it easier to tie up loose ends and relax. A joint venture may interest you, but do your own thing.

Don’t spend money to impress someone. The best way to gain respect and popularity is to offer your services or experience, not your cash. Spend time with a love one.

22 Fifties from KL Rahul, Chris Gayle mark Kings XI Punjab's last-ball win

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

FRIDAY OCTOBER 16, 2020

T

wo men who had been part the Royal Challengers Bangalore's most recent successful year combined to put on a 93-run stand that was the bedrock of a win that

delivery into a full toss that was toe-ended for a straight six. The short boundaries at Sharjah would have got a vote of thanks from the Kings XI team with the ball just about clearing the outstretched arms of the long-on fielder. Kings XI now have two wins in the tournament, both against the Royal Challengers.

In the first innings, the Kings XI bowlers had done well to keep The long-awaited the Royal return of Chris Challengers Gayle was one to to 171 for 6. watch They were helped by the team's rather strange tactic of pushing turned AB de Villiers down to No. from a 6. This on a ground where stroll to a lasthe had just played what capgasp win for the Kings XI tain Virat Kohli described as Punjab. a 'superhuman' innings in Both KL Rahul (61* off the Royal Challengers last 49) and Chris Gayle (53 off game at this venue, against 45) had been part of the the Kolkata Knight Riders.

Royal Challengers in 2016 By the time de Villiers evenwhen they reached the fi- tually walked out, 16 overs nal, and the two came to- had been bowled. The second gether after another ex-Royal wicket had fallen in the sevChallengers man in Mayank enth over, when de Villiers is Agarwal had given Kings XI usually expected to walk out, a flying start with a 25-ball but the Royal Challengers 45. wanted to keep a left-right Just like they have in sev- combination going with Kohli eral matches in IPL 2020, at the crease. Out came Kings XI looked in complete Washington Sundar at No.4, control of their chase, hav- and even when he was out in ing motored to 161 for 1 in 17 the 11th over, it was Shivam overs, with just 11 needed in Dube who came in at No.5.

18 balls.

The rejigged batting oro f

KL Rahul was named Man of the Match

Somehow, they contrived to bring that equation down to two runs off the last over, which incredibly enough turned into one to win off the last ball. While visions

Chris Morris brought fireworks for RCB

the

of how Kings XI had botched winning positions swirled, Nicholas Pooran walked out to face his first ball and calmly stepped out to turn a loopy Yuzvendra Chahal

der, might have cost the Royal Challengers some runs, and given how the match panned out, perhaps two points as well.

Royal Challengers' intent at the start

Aaron Finch was walking down the track almost every ball, even against Mohammed Shami's pace. He didn't always connect cleanly but the thinking was clear - to cut out on the swing, and at the same time protect himself from the incoming ball that has caused him trouble. Devdutt Padikkal used his twirling bat and wrists to good effect too, although he fell to Arshdeep Singh in the fifth over. When Kohli came out to bat, he hit three fours in his first seven balls.

There seemed to be a real intent to go hard from the start, and not have to rely on the sort of miraculous innings that de Villiers had pulled

KL Rahul and Chris Gayle stood firm for 93 runs

off in their last game at this venue, against the Knight Riders. It all seemed to be working out to plan until Finch fell, to leave the team 62 for 2 in 6.3 overs, and everyone expected de Villiers to be walking out…

The strange case of de Villiers' batting position

fielders inside the circle being in run-saving positions instead. But Agarwal showed the fine touch he has been in this IPL with a 15-run over against Chahal, and eventual powerplay score of 56 without a wicket down.

Agarwal continued to attack, before Chahal castled him on an attempted slog-sweep.

The opening stand had yielded 78 runs in eight overs

Instead, it was Sundar who came in at No.4. Sundar has shown his batting chops in domestic cricket, but he hasn't yet batted enough in the IPL. He couldn't get going, caught off M Ashwin for 13 off 14, but there was still no de Villiers. Dube was in next, and the Royal Challengers decision to pair up a left-hander with Kohli to negate the two legspinners Kings XI had in Ashwin and Ravi Bishnoi backfired.

It allowed Kings XI to bowl Glenn Maxwell for four overs, which yielded only 28 runs.

Ashwin and Gayle were the two planned changes for Kings Chris XI, with a action third forced change in Deepak H o o d a coming in for an injured Mandeep.

Ashwin, who had taken 3 for 21 in the first match against the Royal Challengers, did an excellent job again, with 2 for 23 in four overs.

That the Royal Challengers eventually got to where they did was thanks to Chris Morris smashing 25 off 8 balls in the last two overs.

Two strong stands for Kings XI

Nicholas Pooran had the pleasure of launching the last ball for 6

The Royal Challengers began by denying any room to Rahul and Agarwal to cut down on scoring opportunity.

No slip was there too, with all

Morris in

though, setting Kings XI well on course.

Gayle, in for his first game of IPL 2020, was pushed out of his familiar opening spot since the Rahul-Agarwal combine had been prolific, and he began in staid fashion.

He hadn't batted in a competitive match since January too.

He was given out off Morris when on 20, but after a consultation with Rahul opted to review. The lbw call was overturned due to an inside edge.

The start given by Agarwal meant Kings XI could absorb a few quiet overs, and Gayle found his range when Kohli chose Mohammad Siraj for the 16th over, followed by Washington Sundar for the 17th. From needing 46 in 30 balls, the equation had come down to 11 off 18.

The scramble at the finish Morris bowled four dot balls in the 18th over, Isuru Udana followed that with a five-run over. Still with just two needed off the final over, Kings XI had the situation well in hand, until it suddenly wasn't. There were two dot balls to start, one mistimed slog-sweep for one, and then another dot ball.

With one run still needed for a win, the nerves began jangling, and Rahul called Gayle through for a quick single that most batsmen would have found tough to make.

Run out at the striker's end, still one run needed to win and a new batsman walking in. Kings XI had clattered 35 runs in overs 16 and 17. They took up the next 2.5 overs in scoring just 10 runs, and also losing Gayle.

Eventually, Pooran's confidence in his ability to clear the straight boundary meant they were saved another heartbreak. (ESPNcricinfo)

SCOREBOARD ROYAL CHALLENGERS BANGALORE INNINGS (20 OVERS MAXIMUM) BATSMEN R AJ Finch b Ashwin 20 D Padikkal c Pooran b Arshdeep Singh 18 V Kohli (c) c †Rahul b Mohammed Shami 48 Washington Sundar c Jordan b Ashwin 13 S Dube c †Rahul b Jordan 23 AB de Villiers † c Hooda b Mohammed Shami 2 CH Morris not out 25 I Udana not out 10 Extras (b 4, lb 2, w 6) 12 TOTAL (20 Ov, RR: 8.55) 171/6 Did not bat: NA Saini, YS Chahal, Mohammed Siraj Fall of wickets: 1-38 (Devdutt Padikkal, 4.1 ov), 2-62 (Aaron Finch, 6.3 ov), 3-86 (Washington Sundar, 10.3 ov), 4-127 (Shivam Dube, 15.6 ov), 5-134 (AB de Villiers, 17.3 ov), 6-136 (Virat Kohli, 17.5 ov) BOWLING GJ Maxwell Mohammed Shami Arshdeep Singh Ravi Bishnoi M Ashwin CJ Jordan

O-M-R-W 4-0-28-0 4-0-45-2 2-0-20-1 3-0-29-0 4-0-23-2 3-0-20-1

KINGS XI PUNJAB INNINGS (TARGET: 172 RUNS FROM 20 OVERS) BATSMEN R KL Rahul (c) † not out 61 MA Agarwal b Chahal 45 CH Gayle run out (Padikkal/†de Villiers) 53 N Pooran not out 6 Extras (lb 3, w 9) 12 TOTAL (20 Ov, RR: 8.85) 177/2 Did not bat: GJ Maxwell, DJ Hooda, CJ Jordan, M Ashwin, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh Fall of wickets: 1-78 (Mayank Agarwal, 7.6 ov), 2-171 (Chris Gayle, 19.5 ov) BOWLING CH Morris NA Saini YS Chahal I Udana Mohammed Siraj Washington Sundar

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2020

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BCB executives engage Government Ministers …Bharrat is new BCB Patron

A

BCB executives with Attorney General Anil Nandlall

Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) delegation led

by President Hilbert Foster last Tuesday met with two senior Government Ministers in what was described as highly successful meetings at their Georgetown offices.

The BCB delegation comprised of Albert Smith, Robby Saywack, Angela Haniff, Dr. Cecil Beharry and Public Relations Officer Simon Naidu. Naidu stated that, over the next couple of months, the BCB would be involved in several outreach meetings with senior Government officials, to update them on the progress of Berbice Cricket and seek to develop areas of cooperation that would benefit the Ancient County.

The delegation met with Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, and Natural

Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat. Foster updated both Minister on the rapid development of Berbice Cricket over the last two years and the plans of his executives for 2021. The BCB, he noted has not stopped working des pite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and continues to make a positive difference in the lives of the less fortunate while putting in place its plans for the restart of the cricket season. Both Ministers hailed the work of the BCB and committed themselves to playing a role in the future.

The delegation was informed by the Attorney General of the current status of the Cricket Administration Bill that was passed in the National Assembly with support from both political parties after lengthy consultations with cricket stakeholders.

The Attorney General

stated that the Government has no favourite in the race, but rather wants democracy returned to the national game. The BCB also sought, and received, advice on how to proceed on having motions passed at their last Annual General Meeting added to the Cricket Bill. These motions include expanding the life of the BCB from one year to two years, inclusion of two more members, and the replacement of executives who might resign during a term.

Attorney General Nandlall accepted an invitation from Foster to visit the county for a meeting with clubs, and also committed to assisting the BCB developmental programme in the future.

Minister Bharrat hailed the outstanding work of both the BCB and the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, MS. He stated that

as a Berbician, the development of youths in the county was very close to his heart.

Minister Bharrat readily agreed to accept the role of Honorary Patron of the BCB, and would be sworn in on the 14th of November at a special ceremony at the St. Francis Community Developers.

The incoming Patron agreed to the establishment of a Patron Fund which would benefit young cricketers and clubs.

The Minister also promised to work along with the BCB to make sure that its planned 2021 semi-professional league becomes successful.

The BCB executives expressed gratitude to the Minister for his warm welcome and acceptance of the Patron role. Both Government Ministers received several publications of the BCB.

E&A Consultants Inc launch programme with significant donation to club

T

RHTY&SC Vice President Mark Papannah receiving the donation from Anasha Ally in the presence of executives Hilbert Foster and Simon Naidu

the Ancient County.

The club and its teams would also be providing special Christmas packages to hundreds of senior citizens; and clothing, footwear and educational materials would be shared out to several children’s orphanages and to senior citizens.

Foster explained that the Christmas packages would be a new addition to the programme, and would involve the delivery to senior citizens of a special gift bag with apples, grapes, soft drinks, biscuits and other delights.

Moreover, the teams would visit the homes of 200 senior citizens on Christmas Morning to hand over a spe-

RHTY&SC, V-Net Communications assist young cricketers in Linden

Incoming BCB Patron, Minister Vickram Bharrat poses with the Board executives

RHTY&SC cricket teams’ Christmas Charity programme…

he ten cricket teams of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, MS, have, over the years, hosted an annual Christmas Charity Programme along with their widely popular Christmas Village, which normally attracts thousands of excited children and their parents.

With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the teams would unfortunately be unable to host the village in all of its glory, but would be hosting their 30th annual Christmas Charity programme.

The charity activity was officially launched on Tuesday last, when Managing Director of E&A Consultants Inc, Mrs. Anasha Ally, handed over by cheque a significant contribution in memory of her late dad, Ananda T. Dharry, founder of the company.

RHTY&SC Secretary/ CEO Hilbert Foster, in accepting the donation, expressed gratitude to the company for the contribution. He explained that during the period December 5th to 24th, the 10 teams would be distributing 1000 food hampers to less fortunate families and 5000 Christmas toys across

23

cial Christmas breakfast to them. Christmas toys would also be donated to churches, so they can share them to their members.

The long-serving club official expressed gratitude to the management of E&A Consultants Inc for making the contribution in honour of the late Ananda T. Dharry.

Deceased five years ago, Dharry has been described as having been a very strong supporter of the RHTY&SC and an outstanding product of the small municipality of Rose Hall Town. The club would be conferring on the late businessman its highest award, “The Dolphin Award of Excellence”, posthumous-

ly, and his daughter would be accepting it at a special ceremony in November.

The Dolphin Award of Excellence is specially reserved for 60 persons whom the club views as positive role models for youths to emulate.

Mrs. Ally congratulated the club on its outstanding work, and urged the executives to continue on the same path. She disclosed that the late Dharry had always spoken highly of the work of the club and its Secretary/CEO. She expressed delight at the club’s decision to honour her father, and accepted the offer to receive the award.

Meanwhile, several overseas- based Guyanese have committed to contributing to the Christmas programme.

Among them are Satishwar Persaud, Joy-Tate Papannah, Natasha Papannah, Moonish Singh, Cecelia Vasconcellos, Alicia Raganadan, Subrina Busgith, Rajendra Daniel Sadeo, Zaeer Ali, Devika Ramlagan, Paulet Dudnauth, Beenita Singh, Sharma Sukhdeo, Jen Approo, Fiona Hendrax, Ellen Papannah, Tracy Khan, Romel Ayasammy, Sherry John, Pheonia Dequoy, Dropattie Ramsammy and Chanderpaul Hemraj

Whitney Brocks hands over cricket gear on behalf of RHTY&SC cricket teams

“H

e lived most of his life in the township of Linden.

He was totally committed to the development of the game there, and as such, it is only right that we remember Linden as we pay tribute to the Legacy of the late great Basil Fitzherbert Butcher.”

Those were the words of Simon Naidu, Asst Secretary/ CEO of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC), MS, as the club and V-Net Communications handed over cricket gear and two bicycles to Mr. Frederick, who is associated with the promotion of cricket in the Region Ten area.

The cricket gear would be distributed to ten youth players, while two less fortunate players would receive the bicycles to assist them to get to school. The donated gear included helmets, batting gloves, wicket-keeping gloves and wicket-keeping pads.

Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster stated that under the first ever Basil Butcher Trust Fund, over one hundred youth cricketers benefited from donations of cricket gear, bicycles and educational materials.

The main aims of the Trust Fund, he disclosed, are to encourage youths to Say Yes to Education and Sports, to assist young players to fulfill their dreams of playing cricket at the highest level, and to promote the legacy of Basil Butcher.

Foster urged Mr. Fredericks to make sure that the most suitable players receive the donated items based on their talent, income status, discipline and personal attitude. Special thanks were expressed to Chief Executive Officer of V-Net

Communications, Sarfraz Sheriffudeen. Foster stated that V-Net Communications has been a great partner of the RHTY&SC and has assisted the club over the years by co-sponsoring its Christmas Village, Cricket Development programme, Annual Awards Ceremony and Annual Youth Review magazine, among others.

The V-Net Chief Executive Officer stated that, as an honorary member of the RHTY&SC, he was happy to assist in any way possible, and pledged that he would continue to do so in the future.

Basil Butcher, a Berbice Cricket Board Hall of Fame Cricketer, played 44 Test matches for the West Indies until his retirement in 1969.

He scored over the three thousand runs at an average of 43.11, with seven test centuries and sixteen half-centuries. The RHTY&SC, with support from the Berbice Cricket Board under the Trust Fund, has shared millions of dollars’ worth of items across Berbice. They include 3000 food hampers, bicycles, school bags, clocks, medical items, educational materials, cleaning detergents and face masks, among other things.

The presentation was the final one for the 2020 leg of the fund, which was held as part of Butcher’s 87th birth anniversary by the ten cricket teams of the club:Poonai Pharmacy Under 12 and Under 13, Farfan and Mendes Under 15, Bakewell Under 17 and Second Division, Pepsi Under 19 and Intermediate, Metro Female, Namilco Thunderbolt Flour Under 21 and First Division

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2020

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Fifties from KL Rahul, Chris Gayle mark Kings XI Punjab’s Page 22 last-ball win

Pg 23

RHTY&SC and V-Net Communications assist young cricketers in Linden

Pg 23

BCB executives engage Government Ministers

…Bharrat is new BCB Patron

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