Guyana Times - Friday July 23, 2021

Govt looking at measures for reopening of cinemas …only vaccinated persons

may be allowed in P17

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

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 4717

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021

Govt still aiming for September reopening of schools – Head of State Pages 9 & 16

PRICE

$80 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE: Deadly Diamond minibus accident

Teens remain in critical condition P10

…unlicensed bus driver charged for causing deaths

… says impact of COVID-19 on education frightening Husband, wife busted with gun under mattress P11

...as over $200M in cash grant to be distributed to Region 10 parents – Manickchand

In photos: Education Minister Priya Manickchand and Tourism Minister Oneidge Walrond were part of the “Because We Care” cash grant launched in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) on Thursday

Police Service Commission suspension

President Ali reassures he acted in conformity with Guyana’s Constitution

Page 3

Oil and gas training centre opens

Security P14 guard shot by colleague Off-duty cop, 1 other arrested after tossing ganja out of car P11

EBD man jailed for strangling estranged wife P8 to death

See story on page 2

…as Govt eyes success in new blocks Rose Hall Estate reopening

Contracts signed for pontoon barges, cane-transport punts for GuySuCo

3 deaths, 74 new COVID-19 cases recorded …4 pregnant women hospitalised with COVID-19 See stories on page 12

Page 7

…Johnson and Johnson vaccines expected next month

No more roadside vending will be allowed – Anna Regina Mayor P16 …vendors protest decision

2 NEWS

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Oil and gas training centre opens …quick learning about industry needed – GOGEC

GOGEC Chairman Manniram Prashad and Government Ministers Vickram Bharrat and Deodat Indar at the ceremonial cutting of the ribbon for the opening of the GOGEC training centre

A

A section of the gathering at the opening of the training centre by GOGEC

new oil and gas training centre, which is expected to create new opportunities for locals, was on Thursday commissioned. The centre, located in Middle Street, Georgetown is an initiative of the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC); a private sector umbrella organisation formed in 2017 to advance local participation in Guyana’s oil sector.

Speaking at the open-

ing of the center, Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat, said that the centre is needed, as Government and the private sector cooperate to carve out opportunities for local businesses and workers, where possible.

“Just as the country will grow, and new private sector participants enter into Guyana, the umbrella organisation for oil and gas will grow,” the minister is

quoted by DPI as said.

He also encouraged the Chamber and the wider private sector to conduct their own oil industry needs assessments, to determine where gaps exist for locals to fill. Senior Petroleum Coordinator at the Ministry of Natural Resources, Bobby Gossai Jr. delivered an extensive presentation on the Government’s work and vision for local content.

He said the driver of local

content has to be the private sector. On the Government’s end, Gossai said the local content policy is being finalised, and that legislation is also being crafted.

“But those are just two key instruments which will drive the process. We are also working on an implementation plan for local content. We are working on the monitoring and evaluation framework to ensure that systems like this that we have here, where companies are coming in to the country and they are working,

[that] they are also contributing towards the growth of the economy,” he said.

Prashad said the GOGEC’s membership has already exceeded 60. He said the Government has done well to involve GOGEC in numerous engagements to keep it abreast with developments in the industry. He advocated for more representation for the Chamber in the future.

Private Sector

Meanwhile, Minister within the Public Works Ministry, Deodat Indar explained that the Private Sector should be able to benefit from the current expenditure in the oil sector and stood a superior chance of capitalising through consortiums.

“What we need as a country is still being filled by foreign companies and foreign workers. The needs assess-

ment must be done by the Private Sector. Apart from Government doing their own needs assessment, the Private Sector need to do theirs too. You’re the guys that know all the nuts and bolts in the sector… All of those organisations that support the oil and gas sector have special needs and those needs need to be filled by certified people,” he underscored.

This opening followed an inaugural training session, which will continue under the stewardship of the GOGEC. Chairman of the Chamber, Manniram Prashad noted that there must be a quick adjustment to learning about the industry in a bid to prevent any fostering of the Dutch disease, as is seen with many countries. In addition, he said funds from the oil resources should trickle down to all Guyanese. (G12)

Region 9 REO placed on bail after shooting woman

…shooting was accidental – Police

O

ne day after the Regional Executive Officer (REO) of Region Nine, (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), Karl Singh was been arrested for reportedly shooting a woman to her abdomen, he was placed on bail.

According to the Guyana Police Force, the REO was released on bail after its investigations revealed that Singh accidentally shot the pharmacist of St. Ignatius Village, Central Rupununi, to her abdomen.

He is, however, expected to return to the station today as investigations continue. Reports are that the 25-year-old woman was shot about 23:00h on Tuesday in the Commercial Zone of Lethem Central.

Police had said that the woman was with the REO in his motor pickup when he allegedly shot her. Singh took the wom-

Region Nine REO Karl Singh

an to the Lethem Regional Hospital, where she underwent surgery immediately, and her condition is now regarded as stable.

NEWS

3

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

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

Friday, July 23 – 03:30h – 05:00h and Saturday, July 24 – 04:00h – 05:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Friday, July 23 – 16:05h – 17:35h and Saturday, July 24 – 16:50h – 18:20h.

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

WEATHER TODAY Thundery and light rain showers are expected with sunny intervals during the day. Expect clear skies at night. Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East South-Easterly to East North-Easterly y between 1.78 metres and 3.12 metres.

High Tide: 16:12h reaching a maximum height of 2.5 metres.

Low Tide: 09:58h and 21:43h reaching a minimum height of 0.72 metre and 0.56 metre.

Police Service Commission suspension

President Ali reassures he acted in conformity with Guyana’s constitution

P

resident Dr Irfaan Ali has stood by his decision to suspend the Police Service Commission (PSC), saying on Thursday that he acted in conformity with the Constitution of Guyana.

This comes on the heels of Chairman of the PSC, Paul Slowe, and the four other Commissioners – Michael Somersall, Claire Jarvis, Vesta Adams, and Clinton Conway – filing legal proceedings earlier this week to challenge the sus-

LOTTERY NUMBERS E

02 12 20 21 25 28

FREE TICKET

24 Bonus Ball

TUESDAY, JULY 20, 2021

DAILY MILLIONS

01 13 15 20 22 LUCKY 3

6

2

6

9

Afternoon Draw

0

3

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

02 04 07 10 11 14 20 SUPER

PAY DAY

PAY DAY

FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021

02 03 09 14 15 13

02 04 09 11 19

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

COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Change %

Crude Oil

$73.79/barrel

+2.11

Rough Rice

$243.684 /ton

-0.07

London Sugar

$447.00/ton

-0.75

Live Spot Gold

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1803.80

$1804.80

Low/High Change

$1802.70 -3.10

$1804.90 -0.17%

opted. He reminded that Prime Minister Brigadier

“I’m obligated to act in conformity with the Constitution, and I’ve done so” – Head of State pension.

However, President Ali told reporters on Thursday, “I’m obligated to act in conformity with the Constitution, and I’ve done so.”

The Head of State suspended the Commission on June 16 pending the findings of a tribunal to be established.

On sidelines of an event at State House on Thursday, the President explained that in his suspension letter to the PSC, he had outlined the procedure that was ad-

TUESDAY, JULY 20, 2021

President Dr Irfaan Ali

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

(retired) Mark Phillips had probed the issue and had advised him accordingly.

“Based on that advice, I was convinced that it was the best step forward,” Ali contended.

In his letter to Slowe and the Commission, the Head of State had indicated that his decision to suspend the Commission was in accordance with Article 225 of the Constitution of Guyana, which states, “The officer may be removed from office only for inability to discharge the functions of his office (whether arising from

infirmity of body or mind or any other cause whatsoever) or for misbehaviour.”

However, in the proceedings filed in the High Court, the defunct PSC maintains that the President’s decision to suspend the Chairman and the other members of the Commission is contrary to, and in violation of, the

Constitution of Guyana, particularly Articles 225 (6) and 210 (3), hence it holds no force or effect.

Suspended Paul Slowe

PSC

Chairman

The constitutional body also wants the High Court to declare that Slowe and the Commissioners of the PSC “remain competent and responsible to fulfill their constitutional mandate, including appointments to any officers in the Police Force above the rank

of Inspector.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

4

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021

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

Reopening of schools

T

he Education Ministry, and by extension, the Government had done a remarkable job in terms of preparations for the partial reopening of schools and for learning to continue for students across the country and now for the full reopening of schools come September.

President Dr Irfaan Ali currently said on Thursday that the global situation with children being out of school is indeed “frightening”.

To quote President Ali: “Many countries are already giving frightening reports in terms of the impact. I’ve been travelling around this country and I know I’ve seen children who ought to be in school, they are out of the system. So, we have to get back to school…ee create the conditions to ensure that we get back to school and that is what we are aiming for.”

No one should underestimate the level of planning and the kind of resources that are needed to ensure that academic learning continues and students and teachers are safe in these challenging times.

The Education Ministry has managed to open schools for Grades of 10, 11 and 12 (fourth fifth and sixth forms) to allow those students who are older, back into school so that they can prepare for their exams. This was after these students missed out on months of academic work and this will certainly prove to be a challenge in terms of completing the syllabus.

There are a few who have hastily criticised the ministry for moving ahead with the partial reopening of schools without offering any proper alternative. However, we believe that Education Minister Priya Manickchand was correct in pointing out that school doors cannot remain closed forever. Learning needs to continue, but certainly with taking all the necessary health precautions very seriously.

We have noted that the Ministry has been very thorough in terms of putting systems in place to prevent persons from contracting the virus. However, like many other countries, no one can guarantee that persons would be free from getting infected.

It could be recalled that prior to the reopening of schools, the ministry held a number of consultations with the Health Ministry, medical professionals, CXC, head teachers, teachers, the Guyana Teachers’ Union, parents, students and other stakeholders to discuss and consider the relevant issues relating to the pandemic.

It should mandatory for every student, teacher and member of the auxiliary staff to wear face masks in Guyana.

Everyone should also have their temperature tested before they are allowed entry into the school compound. Students must continue to be supplied with safety kits.

The Ministry of Education must be commended for the work it has done to ensure learning continues. It should be noted that Guyana is one of the few developing countries in the world that have given this kind of support to students and teachers, inspite of the scarcity of resources.

That said, in light of the changes that are being made due to COVID-19, educators will have to adapt very quickly and ensure that students are not left behind. The failure of students must not be an option, hence the important role of the head teachers, regional education officials and even parents.

Through effective leadership, coupled with sound management head teachers and their senior staff must be able to cope with the changes that are being forced upon us in order to effectively transform the performance of students.

Good managers know that planning and organization are critical to success, and it is important that every school adopts this approach. The best performing schools often have better organized and prepared teachers.

Additionally, the Ministry of Education and Government as whole must constantly review its approaches to education delivery and management. Doing so would not only allow for improved results at the national and regional examinations, but it will contribute to churning out competent and capable individuals who can adapt easily to tertiary education or the working environment.

Parents must not leave their children’s education to teachers and the Ministry of Education alone.

Commander-in-Chief, Dr Irfaan Ali on Thursday afternoon presented Instruments of Commission to officers who were successful at the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Standard Officers’ Course (SOC) 48 and 52, and State Warrants to Warrant Officers. The Commissioned Officers and Warrant Officers took their oaths before they were presented with their respective documents at a special ceremony at State House. GDF Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Godfrey Bess was also at the presentation ceremony (Office of the President photo)

Strengthening of COVID-19 vaccination efforts imperative Dear Editor, It is not lost on the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) that, as at yesterday (July 21, 2021), 21,733 Guyanese have been infected by COVID-19, 515 of whom have lost their battle. The pandemic has, without a doubt, been one of the most significant challenges that the Guyanese people have faced in recent times.

It is now a globally accepted fact that, for the pandemic to be put in the past, there is need for persons to be vaccinated. The FITUG has noted that since vaccination efforts were heightened, there has generally been a reduction in daily cases, while active cases are on the decline. It confirms that vaccination plays a major role in staunching the spread of the dreaded virus.

At this time, we have seen that some 50% of adult Guyanese have received their first COVID-19 shot, and approximately 27% are fully vaccinated.

The Federation recognizes, too, that vaccination efforts have been severely set back by irresponsible statements which emanated from certain national leaders.

Indeed, it has increased vaccine hesitancy, and is contributing to a lengthening of the pandemic in our country. This for us was most disturbing.

This situation is, however, not unique to Guyana, and in several countries around the world, measures have, and are being, devel-

oped to improve vaccination rates. It appears that in Guyana we have now reached that crossroad, and there is need for firm decisions before our lives can get back to normal and we can stop losing lives.

As the pre-eminent workers organisation in Guyana, the FITUG encourages all eligible workers and Guyanese to be vaccinated.

The workers movement is built on solidarity, and every worker must be their brother’s or sister’s keeper. Indeed, it is unfortunate that workers who have taken the vaccine have to be exposed to others who have not, or have refused to take the vaccine. We can find no conceivable rationale other than a certified health condition for workers not to take the vaccine. Indeed, workers and all Guyanese need to protect one another.

It is part of our collective responsibility.

To this end, the Federation recognises that some enterprises have taken this matter very seriously. Indeed, the health and well-being of the nation’s workers is important.

Moreover, our Occupational Safety and Health Act obligates employers to provide a safe and healthy working environment.

In the circumstances of today, receiving the COVID-19 vaccination would be an obvious measure. Against that background, some firms, we have heard and seen, have sought those employees not in re-

ceipt of COVID-19 vaccine to submit regular PCR tests to confirm their negative status.

It appears that maybe such measures are necessary to ensure a safe workplace.

We, however, believe the obligation of businesses go beyond that measure.

We hold that efforts should be made to ensure customers/clients are also vaccinated and/or tested negative for COVID-19.

Certainly, businesses cannot coerce employees into getting vaccinated, but not seek to ensure that their employees are also protected from contracting the virus from customers. While we know that some employers may contend that the risk of contracting the virus may be lowered in vaccinated personnel, the reality is a

risk still exists. And efforts should be made to mitigate that risk as far as practicable.

Against that background, it may now be prudent for the Government to consider the implementation of a vaccination passport or similar measure. This measure, enacted in other jurisdictions, has been helpful in encouraging vaccine uptake. The FITUG, for its part, is willing to share its views and thoughts on such policy. We believe it is now incumbent for stronger measures to be adopted, given the situation.

Indeed, an end is near, but it requires our collective efforts.

Sincerely, Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG)

Walkout should not hinder continuation of meeting Dear Editor, It has to be wondered: if a meeting is fully and legally convened, and agenda items are being dealt with, but as soon as an unfavourable item on the agenda comes up, one section walks out or logs out, cannot the meeting continue for lack of quorum?

And does it have to be aborted? Why is this so?

The meeting was legally called to order, why can’t it continue?

The meeting has a legal

chair, so discussions and decisions have to be seen as legal and binding.

It is my opinion that once the meeting was properly called to order in keeping with all protocols, the walking out of some should not hinder its continuation.

The options at the disposal of the chair should be invoked, so legitimate business is not held up.

Sincerely, Shamshun Mohamed

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021

5

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

Great patriotic leadership Govt must be commended for and commitment this road project

Dear Editor, The PPP/C Government has been fulfilling its 2020 campaign promises on a continuous basis since assuming office is August 2020, and neither the COVID-19 pandemic nor the devastating floods can put a brake to the PPP/C’s developmental momentum, which has become an accepted norm in Guyana.

May I add another epidemic to these two, one which is attempting to frustrate this great developmental thrust -the useless Opposition.

The heartless closure of the Estates - Wales, Enmore, Rose Hall and Skeldon brought untold pain, misery and suffering to over 7,000 persons and their families.

Those directly affected would approximate to nearly 40,000.

The domino effect did account for more than 60,000, since all businesses in the environs of these estates were severely affected and had to lay off employees.

New Amsterdam and Corriverton became ghost towns, and there was an upsurge of social ills. Many students had to drop out of school, since their parents were catapulted into immediate poverty. This worsened the situation, since the cal-

lous Coalition had removed the Cash Grant which had assisted parents to send their children to school.

Imagine, the AFC trio of Ramjattan, Cathy Hughes and Sherod Duncan were on the Alliance on the Move programme last Saturday condemning the Government’s reintroduction of that grant, when parents across the country are so happy for this great help at a time when they are confronted with not one, but two national crises.

This grant will increase each year, and the parents have confidence in the promises made by the PPP/C. This ‘Because We Care’ initiative assists everyone, unlike the Granger Bs, which were accessible only to the Coalition’s supporters.

No Government worth its salt would ever create such a wilful devastation to the lives of its people, and that happened without providing for the inevitable socio-economic fallout. But the Coalition were out for revenge, and were not satisfied with a pound of flesh; they went for the vitals. They wanted to cut the jugular vein of the PPP/C, since sugar workers were maliciously deemed to be PPP/C supporters.

Ironically, the Coalition destroyed themselves, since their criminal intent became clear for all to behold, and they will never again be trusted.

One of the promises of the PPP/C on the campaign trail, and enshrined in its manifesto, was to reopen the shuttered estates and to bring back socio-economic progress in those area by re-employing the severed workers. This began in earnest just after the swearing in of the PPP/C Government, and an allocation of $3 billion for the reopening of Enmore, Rose Hall and Skeldon was made, not without the usual condemnation from the Coalition.

The reopening process began at Rose Hall in September 2020, and to date nearly 500 persons have been re-employed in mostly the field and factory and to some extent the other departments. But today is a historic day for Rose Hall Estate, when close to 200 workers were offered employment at a “One Stop Shop” employment drive which saw persons from the communities nearby going through the employment process. Never were so many persons employed in any given day. They thronged the en-

trance of the Estate as early as 6 a.m. There was happiness in the air, and the beaming faces told the story.

Soon they will again live with dignity and self-respect.

The re-employment will continue until the grinding operation commences in October 2021. It was a crying shame just last week to listen to the AFC Trio on the Alliance on the Move programme, again referring to GUYSUCO as the ‘dark hole’. They should have been at Rose Hall on this day to tell the re-employed workers that.

They must not hide in a TV station, they must face the people directly; and then they will experience what lepers went through in the biblical days. Well, I must say that they have been in leper-like self-isolation, and have been hiding behind the social media and the TV for some time now.

I must congratulate the PPP/C Government for continuing to deliver on their promises, despite so many adverse conditions. It is a manifestation of great, patriotic leadership and commitment to serve the people of Guyana.

Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf

Pat Pierre will be greatly missed Dear Editor, I was very saddened to learn about the death of Ms Pat Pierre.

I first met Pat in the 1970s, when I worked as a copywriter for Carib Advertising Services, since she did most of the photo-

graphic work needed for our press advertisements.

Pat did magic with her photography, both through the camera lens and in her darkroom.

In more recent years, she did a lot of humanitarian work, especially for the

First Peoples community, visiting them in hospital in the city, and taking food, medicines and clothing for them in order to make their stay more comfortable. In the true spirit of charity, she did all this quietly and with her usual

kindness, generosity, and very sunny disposition.

To her friends and family, I offer my deepest condolences. She will be missed.

Sincerely, Ryhaan Shah

Dear Editor, I have to commend the Government and engineers at the Ministry of Public Works for the good job being done on our roadways.

I am a diligent reader and supporter of anything that seeks to improve our way of living in Guyana, once it is legal. So, recently, I found out that the Ministry of Public Works and its Special Projects Unit were undertaking $99.5 million in road maintenance in the capital city.

And this explains much of the work that I see ongoing in various parts of the capital city.

Mr Editor, these works are good, and would, as I understand it, serve to remedy defects developed during the rainy season.

I hope we would restore the safety, serviceability, structural capacity, and appearance of the roads by undertaking this project.

Notable also is the fact that Central Government is once again picking up the slack, as the Georgetown Mayor and City Council is responsible for the maintenance of these roads.

It is a shame that the Georgetown M&CC cannot get its act together.

Guyana seems to be on the cusp of development. This Government must make sure it gets value for money spent on the roads’ project. I am glad and, quite frankly, happy that these changes are taking place.

Yours respectfully, Attiya Baksh

6

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021

Page

Foundation ◄

Question 1

Thursday’s answers

Step 1: Gather tools that have capabilities similar to those accomplished by birds’ beaks, eg, needle-nose pliers, tongs, straws, chopsticks, slotted spoon, and nutcrackers and set up five

stations:

Woodland edge station: provide a tall vase full of water (nectar) with a slotted spoon, tweezers, and drinking straws Marsh station: provide a pan with about 3 inches of mud with elbow macaroni buried in the mud with a slotted spoon, a nutcracker, and chopsticks Lawn station: provide a dirt-filled tray with cut up rubber bands, needle-nose pliers, drinking straw, and a tea strainer Lake station: provide a halffull large mixing bowl of water

with tiny Styrofoam balls floating on it, a slotted spoon, straw, and tongs Forest station: provide tree nuts in their shells, tongs, chopsticks, and a nutcracker Step 2: Next, rotate to each station and try to pick up the “food” with each of the tools provide d .

(Note: Straws are not for

Step 3: At each station, test each tool and note their results in retrieving each type of “food.”

Step 4: After visiting every station, share your ideas about which “beak” was best to get the food in each “habitat.” Identify which of the birds have beaks similar to the kinds of tools you used to collect “food”.

(Adapted from startwithabook. org)

s i p ping! Use the straws by placing them in the water then putting your finger over the opening.)

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

7

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Rose Hall Estate reopening

Contracts signed for pontoon barges, cane-transport punts for GuySuCo

A

s Government continues its moves to reopen the Rose Hall Sugar Estate, the Agriculture Ministry on Thursday signed $430 million in contracts to conduct works within the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) and the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA).

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha stated that much-needed work was to be done within the two entities, since they were of great importance to the country.

“We’ll be signing contracts close to about $500 million – to be exact $430 million in two sectors – GuySuCo and D&I … those are two very important entities for us,” he said, adding that “D&I (drainage & irrigation) we know for a fact were under a lot of strain and are still under a lot of strain over the last three months in terms of getting back our country to normalcy”.

On the other hand, he said, GuySuCo is working towards meeting the commitment made by Government to reopen some of the sugar estates that were shut down

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha along with GuySuCo CEO Sasenarine Singh and contractors at the contract signing

by the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC), leaving thousands of workers jobless and on the breadline.

He said that the Government was now in the process of reopening Rose Hall in order to create employment, while at the same time sugar would contribute to Guyana’s Gross Domestic

Product (GDP) and the economy.

The contractors with whom Thursday’s contracts were inked were David Persaud Investments Ltd with a $255,657,050 contract and Gafsons Industries Ltd with a $28,500,000 contract for the supply and delivery of assorted materials for fabrication of cane and transport

punts (barges).

Upon the closure of the Rose Hall Estate in 2017, some 120 of the usable cane-transport punts were said to have been transferred to the Albion Estate.

The others were retained at Rose Hall to assist contractors with harvesting canes for processing.

VR Construction Inc

President Ali reassures he...

The Commission is also asking the court to order the Police Commissioner, Nigel Hoppie, to give effect to the promotion list under convention and his role and responsibilities under the Constitution and the Police Act. Following Chief Justice Roxane George’s dismissal of the cases filed by Senior Superintendent of Police Calvin Brutus and other senior officers, challenging the 2020 senior Police promotions, the suspended PSC had released its promotions list, which the Ali-led administration refused to recognised, deeming it “unlawful and illegal.” This was about two weeks after the suspension was issued.

The Commission had initially refused to accept the President’s decision, saying the it was unlawful and went ahead with attempts to have the Police Commissioner effect

the promotions – a move that was rejected by Government.

Respect decision In fact, Attorney General Anil Nandlall, S.C., who in addition to the President was also named a respondent along with Prime Minister Phillips, the Police Commissioner and Secretary of the Commission in the proceedings filed by the PSC, has welcomed the legal action. He posited that only the court can ascertain the legality of the President’s decision.

During his weekly programme “Issues in the News”, Nandlall said, “…if one wishes to challenge a decision made by a public officer, more so, one made by the Head of State, certainly, the law does not permit you to arrogate onto yourself a power to ignore that decision… Paul Slowe and his team must recognised, at least when this Government is in power, the Constitution will

be complied with and the rule of low will be respected, and when the President makes a decision or a minister makes a decision, whether he is right or whether he is wrong in law, is a matter only for the court to decide.”

Moreover, the Attorney General also reminded that based on the Rule of Law, the Commission is mandated to respect the President’s decision unless it is rescinded by the court.

“So, when Mr Slowe and his team were writing the Secretary to the Commission, instructing him to proceed with this promotion list that they have assembled, and Mr Slowe was writing the Commissioner of Police instructing him to proceed to promote a list of officers assembled… They were completely wrong and their demands were completely unlawfully and were properly

was awarded a contract valued $84,561,100 for the supply of pontoons/barges, while Guyana Tractor & Equipment (GUYTRAC) was contracted for the supply of two long-reach hydraulic excavators to the tune of $60,000,000.

With the acquisition of the pontoon and excavators, which are expected to oper-

ate in the Pomeroon River, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), the NDIA will now be fully equipped to carry out drainage works required in swampy pegasse soil, on which, under normal conditions, it is difficult to operate an excavator without the risk of the machine sinking. This equipment is expected to assist the NDIA with executing a blocked drainage programme within the Pomeroon area.

The Minister reminded contractors that when it came down to delivery, the Agriculture Ministry was the most important and they have an obligation to the people in executing those deliveries. The Ministry has seen the signing of several contracts for this year already in advancing the execution of its 2021 work programme.

Earlier this month, the Agriculture Ministry signed several contracts valued in excess of $340 million that will see enhancement and development of agricultural activities across Guyana.

Mustapha noted that some $22 billion was allocated to the agriculture sector in the budget.

FROM PAGE 3

and rightfully ignored,” he asserted.

The suspension of the PSC was done after Slowe and Commissioner Conway, both retired Commissioners of Police, were embroiled in a fraud controversy. The duo along with several other retired senior Police officers, are presently facing charges of conspiracy to defraud the Guyana Police Force of $10 million.

It is alleged that Paul Slowe, Clinton Conway, Claude Whittaker, George

Fraser, Mark Gilbert, Royston Andries-Junor, Marcelene Washington, Michael Sutton and Marion Kellman, between March 1, 2019 and July 7, 2020, conspired together to defraud the GPF. Reports are that money was paid to revise the entire raft of the Police Force’s Standing Orders, but Slowe and the others have so far failed to present the Force with a raft of completed revised Standing Orders. The raft of Police Force’s Standing Orders comprises 104

Standing Orders, but these were already revised at the time that the men implicated in the fraud reportedly undertook to conduct a revision.

Both Slowe and Conway were written to by Prime Minister Phillips to show cause why the fraud charges against them should not result in their removal from the PSC. It was based on the findings from that probe that the PM gave advice to the President, who suspended the PSC, whose three-year tenure will expired in August. (G8)

8 NEWS

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

EBD man jailed for strangling estranged wife to death

A

resident of Herstelling, East Bank Demerara has been jailed for 18 years after admitting to strangling his estranged reputed wife to death.

Initially indicted for the murder of Lowtie Atwaroo, 41-year-old Daniel Watson appeared before Justice Sandil Kissoon on Thursday and pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter.

Reports are that on May 21, 2018, Atwaroo went to visit her reputed husband after she moved out of the home they had shared. She had reportedly moved out two months prior to her demise because she was being abused by him. However, although she had moved out of the home, they had continued a visiting relationship.

On the day in question,

Daniel Watson and his reputed wife, Lowtie Atwaroo in happier times

the woman had gone to Watson’s home and, shortly after, neighbours heard her screaming. She was found submerged in a trench.

After committing the act, Watson had fled the scene, but was later apprehended by the Police.

During a plea in miti-

gation, Watson’s lawyer, Teriq Mohammed, asked the Judge to temper justice with mercy, and in doing so, asked that consideration be given to the fact that his client had pleaded guilty at the earliest chance he got.

Further, the lawyer

stated that his client is of good character, and even described him as a model prisoner.

Asked by Justice Kissoon if he had anything to say before the sentence was passed, Watson begged Atwaroo’s family for forgiveness.

Having considered the aggravating and mitigating factors, the Judge concluded that a prison sentence of 18 years was appropriate in this case.

In his sentencing remarks, Justice Kissoon noted the prevalence of intimate partner violence in society, and said the courts have a duty to impose sentences that would serve as a deterrent to persons who might be contemplating the commission of such crimes.

The Judge described Atwaroo’s killing as “brutal and gruesome”.

Father of 3 sentenced to 18 years for raping boy, 12

A

48-year-old man who, according to High Court Judge Brassington Reynolds, violated a 12-year-old boy in the most dehumanising way, has been sentenced to 18 years’ imprisonment for child rape.

Wazir Potter, a father of three and of Garden of Eden, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was found guilty of the offence almost a month ago. The jury found that he had engaged in sexual penetration of the minor on August 8, 2018 in the county of Demerara.

Potter, who was represented by Attorney-at-Law Everton Singh-Lammy, had initially pleaded not guilty to the charge when the trial commenced at the High Court in Demerara.

Facts presented in court revealed that, on the day in question, Potter grabbed the 12-year-old boy, placed his hands over his mouth, and carried him into his house. Once in the bedroom, he raped the boy.

During his testimony, the victim told the jury that he was in pain throughout the 30-minute ordeal.

Potter, in his defence, had given an unsworn statement in which he maintained that he had done no wrong. In fact, he accused the child of framing him, as their families were involved in a bitter property dispute at the time.

Child rapist Wazir Potter

“And if I do it, let God come down and cripple me right here,” Potter had said to the jury.

During closing arguments, Potter’s lawyer had submitted that the victim was not raped by his client, but by another boy who is younger than him.

“When the story happened, I felt so uncomfortable and insecure. I couldn’t leave the yard and go anywhere, because I used to see him [Potter] every day, and I was scared. When I had to go to the shop, I used to go early, because I didn’t want to see him. I was ashamed and scared because people in the neighbourhood his friends, and his family - used to mock me. I want him to go to jail for what he did to me. I want him to go

to jail forever, so he can’t see me again. Let him face the penalty, and he will not hurt anyone else. I am happy now that this is all finished. I feel more comfortable, safe, secure… I have my family to comfort me, and my family is happy,” the victim expressed in a statement to the court.

A probation officer disclosed that the incident has left the child traumatised to the degree that he is displaying suicidal tendencies. As a result of this, the rape survivor dropped out of school due to poor grades.

Meanwhile, at a sentencing hearing on Thursday, Justice Reynolds told Potter that he violated the young boy in the most “dehumanising” and “despicable” manner.

“From all accounts, this young man continues to struggle with the trauma which has descended upon him since this deplorable act of yours. I get every sense that he is still unable to come to grips with the social fallout from that event,” the Judge told the convicted child rapist.

A probation report revealed that Potter had a challenging childhood, which led to him dropping out of school and seeking various jobs to maintain himself. He later acquired funds to build his own home.

The Judge said Potter succumbed to “carnal de-

sires” in the latter stage of his life, only to throw all his accomplishments away.

Justice Reynolds added, “I am struggling to understand why a man living in relative comfort, as you [Potter] were at the time, would succumb to his carnal cravings and to defile [the young boy] in the despicable manner that you did.”

Notwithstanding the guilty verdict, Potter has shown no remorse for his actions, a probation report has noted.

“Removing you from society is the least that the court can do in its attempt at joining forces with the rest of society to show its face against this and other deplorable forms of sexual violence against children,” Justice Reynolds told the rapist during his sentencing remarks.

Having considered the aggravating and mitigating factors, Potter’s criminal antecedents and domestic circumstances, as well as the need to send a strong message to others who may entertain “horrible thoughts” of abusing children, the Judge sentenced the convict to 18 years behind bars.

State Counsels Nafeezah Baig and Sarah Martin presented the case for the prosecution, while Attorneyat-law Teriq Mohammed appeared on behalf of Potter.

Laff story…

T

…in Guyanese politics here’s an old and profound Guyanese proverb that was a favourite of your Eyewitness’ father: “all skinteeth na laff”. So while a lot of folks from across the aisles are rolling on the floor over the infighting in the PNC - hoping they’ll be finished for good, it’s really no joke as far as our country’s concerned. We’ve got to get it in our heads that if we want our parliamentary democracy to function, a viable opposition is ABSOLUTELY necessary. If for nothing else than keeping the incumbent government on its toes by critiquing its policies and proffering alternative solutions to posed challenges.

Your Eyewitness just received a screenshot of a post by a fervent Guyanese PNC supporter from “foreign”, who lambasted (in all CAPS!) David Granger for having, “No BACKBONE, CANNOT ANALYSE DIFFICULT SITUATIONS AND COME UP WITH ANSWERS, REFUSES TO TAKE ADVICE FROM QUALIFIED &COMPETENT ASSISTANTS” TO LEAD THEIR PNCR PARTY IN GUYANA??? The fella ended plaintively, “WHY??? WHY??? WHY??? WHY???

So your Eyewitness will tell him why! In a word, the fault, dear PNC supporter, lies in Burnham - the PNC founder leader. And the supporter sadly and unwittingly placed his finger on this fatal fault when he noted, “wannabe” PNC leaders “love shouting the word COMRADE & AND INVOKING FORBES BURNHAM TO GAIN CREDIBILITY”.

The question not asked, of course, is why do prospective leaders invoke Burnham’s name? “There is none so blind as those who would not see”!!

They do so, dear readers, because they still believe in the infallibility of Burnham and refuse to look objectively at the man’s record to realize that unless and until they recognise Burnham’s fatal flaws that must be jettisoned, their efforts are doomed to amount to naught. As was all of Burnham’s “brilliant” plans by the time he passed on that operating table at the “Big Hospital”.

What did Burnham’s betrayal of the nationalist movement to become an agent of the colonizers do for us? PNC leaders must accept that when it comes to our sovereignty, they can’t run with the hare and hunt with the fox at the same time. Feed, house and clothe the nation??

Ha!! a more specifically, Burnham must be condemned for Granger’s failings. Who was it who took a callow 19-year old, sent him to Mons and insisted on absolute loyalty - up to swearing personal loyalty to him! - from 1965 to 1985??

When was Granger - or any other leader in the PNC ever given an opportunity to have an independent opinion??

How long did Carter, Kennard, Kwayana, Llewelyn John, Jainarine Singh, Latchmansingh, et al last? Poor Desmond Hoyte had to wait till Burnham was dead.

Like Banquo, the ghost of Burnham must be exorcised!! …on gas-to-shore Your Eyewitness needs a good laugh every now-andthen during this pandemic - when so much of his peripatetic activities have been curtailed. He’s going with the science and not tempting the fates!! Anyhow, he fell to the floor laughing his head off when he read a commissioned report done for the Inter-American Development Bank, (IDB).

Now these reports aren’t usually rib-ticklers but this one - which HAD to be done by foreigners - suggested that the US$900million gas-to-shore project should be done

by GPL!!! That’s right…the same company who couldn’t organize 190 MW of relatable power for 60 years!!

Your Eyewitness just had another bout of the snickers thinking about GPL - which couldn’t even run a power line across the Demerara River!! Which planet did these consultants come from?? Bizzaro? Well, they did suggest that GPL would hire an Independent Power Producer (IPP) to do the actual work.

But wouldn’t GPL’s involvement be the kiss of death?? …and hemp Your Eyewitness notes the Hemp Hype is still going strong. But they haven’t told us how they’ll ensure the plants will have less than .03% of THC that gives ganja its groove!!

Then again, though projected to grow, the hemp market just crashed!!

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

NEWS

9

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Govt still aiming for September reopening of schools – Head of State … says impact of COVID-19 on education frightening

I

n light of the frightening impact that the novel coronavirus pandemic has had on the education system globally and in Guyana, President Dr Irfaan Ali has underscored the importance of reopening schools.

Schools in Guyana have been closed since the outbreak of COVID-19 here in March 2020. There has been partial reopening only to accommodate students writing national and regional examinations.

Emphasising the importance of education, President Ali told reporters on the sidelines of an event on Thursday that the medium-to-long-term impact on the education system will be felt when an assessment is done. This, he noted, is also being seen is other countries.

“Many countries are already giving frightening reports in terms of the impact.

I’ve been travelling around this country, and I know I’ve seen children who ought to

be in school, they are out of the system. So, we have to get back to school,” he stressed.

On this note, the Head of State outlined that the measures have to be put in place to facilitate the reopening of schools, including vaccination of teachers and other school administration staff, as well as parents.

“We create the conditions to ensure that we get back to school, and that is what we are aiming for,” the President posited. This is in relation to the previous announcement that Government is aiming to reopen schools in September.

Currently, Guyana’s vaccination campaign targets only the adult population - persons 18 years and older. However, the country is likely to benefit from a donation of COVID-19 vaccines, including the Pfizer jab, from the United States Government to the Caribbean Community (Caricom).

The Ali-led

Administration has already committed to using the Pfizer vaccines to immunise the children population, especially those in school, so as to ensure their safety once schools are reopened.

This assurance was reiterated by the Head of State on Thursday.

“I want to assure all Guyanese that, once we get the Pfizer vaccine, it will be going to the children,” the President maintained.

Earlier this month, Dr Ali had revealed that, from its existing federal stockpiles of Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson and Johnson vaccines, the US Government has committed some 7 million doses to Latin America and the Caribbean region as part of its global pledge.

This is as Caricom is currently in talks with the US over the availability of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine to the region.

“I can’t say what is coming. I know that we are in discussion at CARICOM with the US. The US has

committed to giving vaccines to the region… What I can say is that once it is Pfizer, I can tell you this policy now: it will go to the children, starting from 18 and below,” the Head of State had said three weeks ago.

According to the Head of State, while he is unsure about the amount of jabs the country will receive under this arrangement, he is hopeful that it will “be substantial for Guyana”.

“Let us say that we get Pfizer through the US opportunity and we roll out Pfizer for those 18 and below, and we can capture the whole cohort population for secondary schools, that will be exceedingly good for us,” the President had stated.

At the time, Health Authorities had disclosed that, since March 2020, some 1,567 children under the age of 14 have been diagnosed with COVID-19.

This figure has since increased.

In fact, only last week, a 16-year-old lad from Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) succumbed from the life-threatening disease. He had been a cancer patient and had been hospitalised in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Ocean View Hospital after contracting the virus. Two other children, an 11-year-old and a 17-yearold, have also died from COVID-19 in Guyana.

President Dr Irfaan Ali

A research from a 2000plus sample size in 2020 had shown that the PfizerBioNTech vaccine is 100 per cent effective in preventing the COVID-19 virus in children aged 12 through 15.

In late 2020, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allowed emergency use of the vaccine from age 16. This year, the vaccine was given to children in the US from ages 12 to 15.

Plead with parents

Meanwhile, in anticipation on the Pfizer jab, Education Minister Priya Manickchand has pleaded with parents to get immunised and to ensure that when the vaccine becomes available, their children are inoculated as well.

Addressing parents in Region 10 (Upper DemeraraUpper Berbice), which has the lowest vaccination figures in the country, Minister Manickchand explained that the COVID-19 vaccination rate is closely

related to the possibility of schools reopening to physical teaching/learning.

Manickchand said that despite the many interventions by the Ministry of Education and its teachers to keep children engaged, students’ performance had dropped. The Minister added too that studies have shown the longer school doors remain closed, children will suffer from learning loss, and more students will drop out of school.

“If you don’t take this vaccine, I can’t open schools; and if we don’t open schools, your children will suffer.

All these dreams we had of what they will be when they grow up will be affected. It is one of the realities of the times we’re living in. You are their only shield… It is not a mandatory thing, but I’m begging you to consider it and to take this vaccine.

Do this for our children. It’s a plea, I’m begging you,” the Education Minister implored parents. (G8)

10 NEWS

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Deadly Diamond minibus accident

Teens remain in critical condition …unlicensed bus driver charged for causing deaths

Dead: Anthony Persaud

A

s the relatives of Anthony ‘Junior’ Persaud prepare to pay him their last respects on Tuesday, his 17-year-old brother Johnny Persaud remains on life support in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Anthony was instantly killed on Sunday evening after the bus in which he and several others were travelling, including his brother, flipped several times before coming to rest in a turned-turtle turtle position along the Diamond Public Road.

Critical: Johnny Persaud

Dead: Aaliyah Edwards

Johnny remains in a critical state, as well as 16-year-old Michael James of Lot 29 Koker Dam, Land of Canaan, EBD. Johnny Persaud is suffering from severe head injuries and contusions to the chest, while Michael James is nursing head injuries.

The accident also left dead 19-year-old Aaliyah Edwards of Lot 16 Land of Canaan, EBD. Edwards also is expected to be laid to rest next week.

The mother of Johnny Persaud, when contacted on Thursday morning, related that it is very hard to lose

one son and have the other on life support. “Up to Thursday morning, Johnny wasn’t moving… he does not know anyone…he just lay down on the bed with all the machines hooked up to he…the doctors them trying them best, but he not responding at all,” the mother stated.

She noted that family members are presently making arrangements for her other son’s funeral. “It is hard for a mother to have to bury her son…it supposed to be he burying me…,” she has said.

The devastated moth-

er recalled receiving the news of her son’s death on Sunday evening. She has said that ever since receiving the news, “I don’t know meh head from meh foot.”

The woman has said she would continue to pray for her other son to recover.

It has been reported that a group of teenagers had hired a minibus to go to a resort in Timehri on the East Bank of Demerara on Sunday, and after the facilities were closed at 17:00h, the teenagers went to the Georgetown seawalls. On their way home at about 22:00h, the bus, BXX 7256, driven by a 23-year-old unlicensed driver from Five Door Koker Dam, Landof-Canaan, EBD, toppled several times before coming to a halt in the vicinity of the Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) at Diamond.

The Police have confirmed that the driver was driving at a fast rate, and might have lost control while negotiating a turn. A breathalyser test conducted on him proved that he was above the legal limit of alcohol consumption.

Apart from the two dead teenagers and the other two who remain in critical condition, several others were injured. They are: Sabrina Corlette, 18, of Hyde Park, Timehri, EBD, who is suffering from head injuries and an open fracture dislocation to the right ankle; Seth Abrams, 18, of Schoonord, West Bank Demerara (WBD), who sustained deep

The minibus after the accident

abrasion injuries to the right leg; Jessie Wishart, 23, and Joel Wishart, 20, of Lot 43 Old Road, Land of Canaan, EBD; Odarry Gonsalves, 18, of Lot 192 Old Road, Land of Canaan, EBD; Valencia George, 18, of Lot 80 Land of Canaan, EBD; and Shane Argyle, 17, of Koker Dam, Land of Canaan, EBD. They were all treated and sent away.

From reports received, the teenagers were celebrating a friend’s birthday when tragedy struck. In addition, during investigations, Police found out that the minibus driver was in possession of a bogus licence, and as such, at the time of the accident, he was an unlicensed driver.

This driver, 23-year-old Kevon Moore of Land of Canaan, EBD, has already appeared at the Diamond/ Grove Magistrate’s Court to answer several charges in relation to the accident.

He has been charged with two counts of causing death by dangerous driving; being an unlicensed driver; breach of insurance; driving under the influence of alcohol, and failure to render assistance after an accident.

He pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read to him by Magistrate Judy Latchman, and as such was granted bail in the sum of $1,080,000. However, he was subsequently remanded to prison until August 9, 2021.

Mahaicony man injured after falling off motorcycle

A

motorcyclist has been rushed to the Mahaicony Cottage Hospital after he reportedly fell off his bike while negotiating a turn on the Airy Hall Public Road, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara (ECD) on Wednesday evening.

The injured man is 24-year-old Akeim Casey of Catherine, Mahaicony ECD. Preliminary investigations by the Police have revealed that on the day in question, at about 21:00h, Casey was riding a motorcycle along the Airy Hall Public Road in Mahaicony, ECD when he allegedly lost control of the vehicle while negotiating a turn and fell onto the roadway, sustaining injuries about his body.

He was picked up by public-spirited citizens in a conscious condition and taken to the Mahaicony Cottage Hospital, where he was treated and admitted

The injured motorcyclist at the hospital on Wednesday evening

as a patient.

While at the medical facility, the motorcyclist refused to take a breathalyser test, claiming that his chest was paining.

In addition, the Police could not locate the motorcycle that Casey claimed he fell off. An investigation has been launched into the incident.

NEWS

11

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Mon Repos hit and run

Family of dead man lashes out at slothfulness of Police investigation M ore than two weeks after 39-year-old Rajendra Singh, a ramp attendant attached to the Eugene F Correia International Airport, was killed in a hit-and-run accident along the La Bonne Intention (LBI) Railway Embankment, family members are still seeking justice for his death.

On July 1, Singh was riding his pedal cycle along the Railway Embankment when he was struck by an unknown motor vehicle. As a result of the impact, he fell onto the road’s surface and received injuries about his body.

He was picked up in an unconscious condition, placed into a vehicle, and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was admitted a patient with severe head injuries. He subsequently died while re-

Dead man’s wife: Rajpattie Mahase

ceiving medical attention.

At the time of the accident, Singh was reportedly wearing reflective gear, and his family members believe the person who struck him down had no excuse, because they believe the driver

could have seen him.

On Thursday, the dead man’s wife, Rajpattie Mahase, told Guyana Times that the Police have been unable to locate the vehicle that struck Singh, which would eventually lead to the arrest of the driver.

She noted that the mere thought that her husband’s killer is out there roaming the streets a free man is making her very uncomfortable.

Mahase explained that after visiting the Police to follow up on her husband’s case, the family were told that ranks had revisited the scene and were unable to get any evidence. In addition, the Police have said there were no CCTV cameras in the area where the accident took place.

“They said they went back to the scene and them ain’t find nothing. To me,

Dead: Rajendra Singh

they nah do nothing, because so long, today (Thursday) is meh husband 13-day, and still them ain’t get nothing.

I would glad if this can go higher, because I need some justice for my husband”, the woman cried.

The dead man’s wife has said that ever since her husband died, she has been struggling to cope, since he had been the sole bread-winner of the family.

“This is very hard, because my husband gone and leave me. He was the breadwinner for the house…and now that he gone, me alone have to face it now…so that

is why I need justice for my husband… I am not getting support from no one”, the woman said.

Mahase has said that not only has she been struggling financially, but also mentally.

“Not even his parents or the Police is not telling me nothing… I am still crying every day. My family is trying with me, but it is hard.

I am not getting any night rest because it is a lot”, the grieving woman explained.

Singh’s relatives are hoping that the perpetrator would be apprehended soon, so that they can get some closure.

Husband, wife busted with gun under mattress

A Off-duty cop, 1 other arrested after tossing ganja out of car

grams. The passenger remains in custody, while the Policeman has been placed under close arrest. An investigation is underway.

The cannabis that was thrown out of the moving car

A

n off-duty Policeman who worked as a taxi driver and a male passenger were on Wednesday evening taken into custody following the discovery of 231 grams of ganja which were thrown out of a car along the Stanleytown Public Road, West Bank Demerara.

Based on reports received, on the day in question, at about 19:00h, Police, acting on information received, intercepted motorcar PZZ 3217. As the car came to a halt, ranks observed a bulky parcel being tossed out thereof by the 28-yearold passenger.

The motorcar, the pas-

senger and the 26-year-old driver were taken to the abandoned area where a black bulky parcel was retrieved. Upon inspecting the bag, it was observed that the parcel contained a quantity of cannabis.

Both men were told of the offence, arrested, and taken to the La Grange Police Station. They reportedly claimed ownership of the bag, but refused to give a statement to the Police.

The driver claimed to be an off-duty Policeman who works private hire taxi on his off-duty hours.

The narcotics were weighed in their presence and amounted to 231

44-year-old miner and his 53-year-old reputed wife were on Wednesday arrested after a pump-action shotgun was found hidden under their bed at Turasi Backdam in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni).

The Police have said that ranks were at the time conducting searches on several dredge camps in the Middle Mazaruni area, and upon searching this couple’s

The gun that was found under the couple’s mattress

camp, the firearm was found hidden under a mattress on a bed.

The two suspects, neither of whom is a licensed firearm holder, were arrested, and remain in custody as the investigation continues.

The Guyana Police have recently stated that 34 illegal firearms were recovered by the Police from January 1 to June 30, 2021. These include 17 pistols, eight revolvers and nine shotguns.

12 NEWS

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

3 deaths, 74 new COVID-19 cases recorded …Johnson and Johnson vaccines expected next month

T

he Health Ministry has announced that three more persons who tested positive for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) have died. That is in addition to 74 new cases of the virus being recorded.

The latest victims have been identified as a 34-yearold man from Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), and two women – aged 66 and 70 – from Region Three (Essequibo Islands–West Demerara).

The patients had been admitted with COVID-19 symptoms, and died while receiving care at various medical institutions. The samples taken at the time of their admission subsequently returned positive tests.

The death toll from the virus now stands at 518, with 48 deaths in the month of July. The total number of deaths from the COVID-19 virus in the month of June was 78. May has been the month with the most deaths from the pandemic, with 99 COVID-19 fatalities, surpassing April’s death toll of 66.

Based on the Ministry’s daily dashboard, the to-

tal number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Guyana is now 21,807, with 20,084 recoveries. This means that there are currently 1,205 active cases. Of those active cases, 17 persons are in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 93 are in institutional isolation, 1095 are in home isolation, and two are in institutional quarantine.

A breakdown of the cases by gender shows that, to date, 10,635 males have been infected while 11,172 females have contracted the virus.

The Health Ministry has reported that the cases in Regions Seven (CuyuniMazauni), Eight (PotaroSiparuni) and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) have remained the same at 1276, 380 and 1850 respectively.

Of the 74 new cases, Region One (Barima-Waini) has recorded one new case; Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) 17; Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) 15; Region Four (DemeraraMahaica) 16; Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) 1; Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) 23; and Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice)

one.

Persons are encouraged to get immunized, since the COVID-19 vaccine gives full protection against death. In fact, health authorities have disclosed that no one who is fully vaccinated with both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine has been hospitalised or has died from the virus.

As more people continue to get vaccinated, authorities are urging the public to continue observing all COVID-19 preventative measures, particularly wearing a mask in public, practising social distancing, and frequently washing hands and sanitising.

A national curfew that is in effect until July 31, 2021 comes into force daily during the period 22:30h (10:30pm) and 04:00h (4am).

Johnson and Johnson vaccines

Meanwhile, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony has announced that a consignment of the Johnson and Johnson vaccines is expected to arrive in Guyana next month.

“We have already paid to the African Union to source some Johnson and Johnson vaccines, so those will be coming in August,” he revealed during today’s COVID-19 update.

The Guyana Government has made a downpayment for the acquisition of 150,000 single-dose Johnson and Johnson vaccines under a partnership agreement between the African Union and the Caribbean Community.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo had revealed that US$36,000 has been paid as a down payment to the African Union, through which the vaccines are being

GUYANA COVID-19 DASHBOARD JULY 22 UPDATE

NUMBER OF NEW CASES

74

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL ISOLATION

93

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN HOME ISOLATION

1095

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN COVID-19 ICU

17

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL QUARANTINE

2

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (FEMALES)

11,172

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (MALES)

10,635

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES IN GUYANA SINCE 2020

21,807

NUMBER OF RECOVERED CASES

20,084

TOTAL 1st DOSE VACCINATED

244,166

FULLY IMMUNISED

129,267

TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

518

DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES SINCE MARCH 2020 REGION 1

1293

REGION 2

617

REGION 3

2479

REGION 4

9839

REGION 5

731

REGION 6

1820

REGION 7

1276

REGION 8

380

REGION 9

1850

REGION 10

1522

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

Keep a physical distance of at least 6 feet.

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

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

sourced. The Johnson and Johnson vaccine has an efficacy of 66.3%.

Currently, first and second doses of the AstraZeneca and Sinopharm vaccines are available in the country.

Regarding the Sputnik V

vaccine, only first doses are available.

“We’re working to make sure the second doses would be available again quite soon,” the Health Minister has assured.

If anyone is displaying

any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19, or need any additional information, kindly contact the COVID-19 Hotline: 2311166, 226-7480 or 624-6674 IMMEDIATELY, or visit us at www.health.gov.gy.

4 pregnant women hospitalised with COVID-19

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony

F

our obstetric patients have been hospitalised with COVID-19 at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

This is according to Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony, who, during Thursday’s COVID-19 update said the discovery was made during a routine check-up of the patients, who have since been isolated from the general ward population.

“So, mothers would come

in and we would administer the COVID test just to make sure. And sometimes we find that mothers who are ready to give birth tested positive, so, we have to take precautions to make sure and also to reduce spread among the nursing staff and patients within the wards,” he explained.

Dr Anthony noted that between 12,000 and 14,000 births take place annually, with about 8000 at GPHC alone, adding that since the pandemic started, it is routine for expectant mothers to be tested.

Meanwhile, breastfeeding mothers would not be affected if they take any of the COVID-19 vaccines, the Health Minister said.

“The advice has been that during pregnancy you can take the vaccine, however, it is better if those persons who have any doubt, to consult with their obstetrician to just

make sure they have that discussion. And I’m sure the obstetrician would be able to clarify and clear up any doubts that they may have,” Dr Anthony stated.

Similarly, he noted that mothers who were breastfeeding could continue to do so, adding that it was safe. “We encourage pregnant women to get their vaccines. We encourage mothers who are breastfeeding to get their vaccines; there is no adverse outcome.”

NEWS

13

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Govt exploring uses for excess gas from gas-to-shore project – Bharrat W ith works moving apace for the much-anticipated gas-to-shore project that will fulfil Guyana’s energy demands effortlessly, Government is looking at alternative uses for the excess gas which will become available.

Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat told media operatives on Tuesday that while Government was focused heavily on energy generation in the gas-to-energy project, the excess natural resource produced represented a significant figure and could be converted to another use.

Bharrat said Government was yet to make a decision but was contemplating several avenues.

“The project would focus primarily on energy generation, because that is our biggest problem in Guyana.

We need cheaper, more reliable and cleaner energy.

This project would solve that problem. However, based on [what is] guaranteed

Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat

now from Exxon in terms of the amount of gas coming in, there will be a few million that would remain so we would have to find ways which we would utilise it to ensure that we may be in some small petrochemical industry, maybe fertiliser. We have not decided,” said the Minister.

Government had turned

its attention to negotiating the gas-to-energy project just after permit licences were issued to Exxon for the Payara Development Project last year. This move was announced by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo.

The gas-to-shore project is a game-changing initiative that will see gas from the Liza Field offshore Guyana

being pumped onshore to generate power. The main objective of the initiative is to transport sufficient gas from the Stabroek Block’s petroleum operations to supply some 200-250 megawatts of energy to the national grid, leading to a significant reduction in electricity costs.

Exxon has said that around 30 to 35 million cubic feet of natural gas would be required for the gas-to-shore project.

Recently-released data from Norwegian research company Rystad Energy had indicated that less than 20 per cent of the 1.8 billion Barrels of Oil Equivalent (BOE) discovered last year was gas.

Jagdeo had pointed out that Guyana was generating energy at nearly 17 to 20 cents per kilowatt/hour.

As such, he noted that the project could cut the cost of electricity in the country by more than half. To this end, he had announced that a team has been set up to start negotiations on the gas-to-energy project, with

the Government eyeing 2023 to bring the project to fruition.

And indeed, a Gas-toShore Project Advisory Committee headed by former National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) Head Winston Brassington was set up soon afterwards to look at various locations for the gasto-shore project. A number of factors including geotechnical, geophysical and environmental factors were examined, and Government had settled on Wales to land the pipelines for the project.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Mark Phillips, who has responsibility for the energy sector, had previously said that the Government was looking to produce 200 megawatts of power from the gas-to-shore project by 2024.

President Dr Irfaan Ali had previously said the landing of the gas-to-shore pipeline in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) would lead to “big industrial development tak-

ing place there that is linked to not only power generation and a power plant”. He also said the investment on the Demerara River’s shoreside would create massive opportunities and a trickle-down effect.

For now, the Natural Resources Minister said reliable energy remained the top priority of Government, in keeping with the timeline of three years. “It's a work in progress. Our main focus is the power generation plant and there’s a timeline to that. The President would have made it clear that he wants it done in three years and we’re working towards that timeline.”

He added that Guyana has been settling for mediocrity for too long, but the next five years would be significantly important. Several projects in the pipeline will not just reduce electricity costs, but the cost of living.

Heightened production and manufacturing of finished products should also follow.

(G12)

14 NEWS Security guard shot by colleague FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

A

security officer has now been hospitalised while another has been arrested following a shooting incident at Ayan Chinese Supermarket on the Railway Embankment at Plaisance, East Coast Demerara (ECD) on Wednesday evening.

Thirty-two-year-old Sherwin Young of Plaisance, ECD was shot to both legs by his colleague at about 19:20h on the day in question. Both men are attached to the Northwest Security Service.

Based on reports received, the 26-year-old suspect was armed with a semi-automatic 12-gauge shotgun, and was on duty at the Chinese Supermarket when Young, who lives in the area, visited and they were conversing.

Whilst talking, the suspect discharged a round from the shotgun, which hit the victim to both of his legs.

The Police have said that shortly after, the suspect was trying to clear the firearm when another round was discharged, but it did not hit the victim.

An alarm was raised,

and the injured man was picked up by public-spirited citizens who took him to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he has been admitted a patient in a stable condition.

The matter was reported to the Police, and the suspect has been arrested as investigations continue.

Local athletes to benefit from MVP Sport/Urban Life scholarships

A

thletes who are from under\privileged communities across Guyana are set to benefit from scholarships offered by Urban Life and MVP Sports – a local retail store specialised in providing sport gear.

During the launching of the company’s new hybrid location at the Amazonian Mall, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD), proprietor Crystal Ramdeo related that giving back to Guyanese athletes has been their passion.

She stated that the company has been supporting local athletes with their studies abroad for some time. “For MVP Sports, we feel that it is our obligation to assist local athletes in being able to achieve their goals,” she said.

Ramdeo said for future campaigns, they will also be using the platform to bring awareness to, and tackle, domestic violence,

Business owner Crystal Ramdeo

which has been a troubling issue.

“This being a men store, is very important that we are able to bring awareness to this very important issue. One of the things that we will like to do, is to go into communities to underprivileged youths. We want to go into the harderto-reach areas like along the East Coast, in Victoria,

we want to be able to sponsor local athletes there and as far as we can reach,” she explained.

The businesswoman further stated that they would be assisting athletes with tuition and travel expenses once they are selected to study abroad. Thus far, 10 athletes are set to benefit from the scholarships over the next year.

“The initiative it has already started, so it does not have a time limit. It is something that will be ongoing,” Ramdeo explained.

Speaking on the issue of domestic violence, Ramdeo said the business would be targeting the men through seminars and other areas.

“It is very disheartening to see what has been happening in our country and what we would like to do is to really target the men…. through whatever other resources that we can assist… we have reached out to other Non-Governmental Organisations; I have reached out to the Ministry of Social Protection to see how we can assist…,” the businesswoman added.

Pageant coordinator Hashim Alli – 1st Guyanese to judge Miss India USA pageant

Hashim Alli along with other judges and contest winners

T

he Indian Festival Committee (IFC) of New York, the organisation that hosts the Miss, Mrs & Teen India USA pageants recently celebrated its 39th edition at the Royal Albert Palace in New Jersey.

Sixty-one contestants from 30 states in the USA participated in the contests – Miss India USA, Mrs India USA and Miss Teen India USA. Winners of all three categories received complimentary tickets to travel to Mumbai to participate in the 2021 worldwide pageants.

Guyana made history after it was included in the prestigious celebration with pageant coordinator Hashim Alli invited to adjudicate the contests.

Alli was privileged to serve and share knowledge with a well-diversified panel of judges, including big names in the pageantry industry from Florida, Los Angeles, Washington and St Maarten. The panel included the legendary Diana Hayden, Miss World 1997 and actress, as the Chief Judge.

Although there were such richness and expertise on the panel, it was surely

Alli at the event in the USA

not an easy job as the delegates took to the stage and showcased their mastery of the art of pageantry in four rounds.

Their stories were impactful while their charm captured the attention of the audience. The range of exquisite talents was heart-pleasing.

At the end of the night, 25-year-old University of Michigan graduate, , Vaidehi Dongre was crowned Miss India USA. She majored in international studies and

now works as a business development manager. Arshi Lalani, 20, who dazzled everyone with her performance and confidence, was declared the first runner-up.

The talented Navya Paingol, 17, from Michigan captured the Miss Teen India USA title and Swahty Ashok from Connecticut walked away with the Mrs India USA. The pageant was a glamorous affair with a kaleidoscope of beauty, poise, talent, and intelligence.

No foul play in Reg 9 teacher’s death – autopsy

Dead: Peter Christian

D

ays after it was reported that the lifeless body of a teacher attached to the Karasabai

Primary School, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) was found in his yard, a post-mortem examination conducted on his body has ruled out foul play.

Police had initially suspected that the man’s death was suspicious since there were marks of violence on his body.

The lifeless body of 31-yearold Peter Christian, a father of four, was found by his father on Sunday last about 23:30h in the South Pakaraimas village.

He was last seen alive in the company of his father consuming alcohol earlier that evening. The son, however, left the gathering. After some time had elapsed and he did not return, his father went

in search of him and it was then the discovery was made.

Christian’s body was found with bloodstains to the head.

His body was taken to the Lethem Hospital Mortuary and later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Mortuary, where he was identified by his brother, David Christian.

Meanwhile, the autopsy performed on the body of the teacher proved that he died from multiple acute stomach ulcers, which caused bleeding in the stomach, and cirrhosis of the liver. The post-mortem was performed by Government Pathologist Dr Nehaul Singh.

The teacher’s body was then handed over to relatives for burial.

NEWS

15

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Man, 21, appeals life sentence for killing clothes vendor

S

Confessed killers: Selwin Dawson and Kevin Persaud

elwin Dawson, one of the two men who confessed to fatally shooting a clothes vendor back in 2017 during a robbery at Craig, East Bank Demerara (EBD), has filed an appeal against the life sentence imposed on him by Justice Sandil Kissoon.

Dawson, 21, also called

“Crack Skull”, and 21-yearold Kevin Persaud, called “Boyce”, were initially indicted for the December 20, 2017 murder of 40-year-old Purcell Moore. However, during their trial at the Demerara High Court, the duo opted to plead guilty to the lesser offence of manslaughter, and the trial

Murder accused Wayne Anthony Chester

Judge directed the 12-member jury to return formal guilty verdicts for the men on the lesser count.

In a Notice of Appeal lodged at the Guyana Court of Appeal, Dawson is challenging the sentence imposed on him on the basis of its severity.

Vaccine inequity undermining global economic recovery – WHO

C

OVID-19 vaccine inequity will have a lasting and profound impact on socio-economic recovery in low- and middle income countries without urgent action to boost supply and assure equitable access for every country.

This is according to new data released on Tuesday by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP); the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the University of Oxford.

It stated that an acceleration in scaling up manufacturing and sharing enough vaccine doses with low-income countries could have added US$38 billion to their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) forecast for 2021 if they had similar vaccination rates as high-income countries.

At a time when richer countries have paid trillions in stimulus to prop up flagging economies, the Organisation expressed that now was the moment to ensure vaccine doses were shared quickly, all barriers to increasing vaccine manufacturing were removed and financing support was secured so vaccines would be distributed equitably and a truly global economic recovery could take place.

A high price per COVID-19 vaccine dose relative to other vaccines and delivery costs – including for the health workforce surge – could put a huge strain on fragile health systems and undermine routine immunisation and essential health services.

Additionally, it can cause alarming spikes in measles, pneumonia, and diarrhoea.

"There is also a clear risk in terms of foregone opportunities for the expansion of other immunisation services, for example the

safe and effective rollout of HPV vaccines. Lower income countries need timely access to sustainably-priced vaccines and timely financial support," the agency outlined.

These insights come from the Global Dashboard for COVID-19 Vaccine Equity, which combines the latest information on COVID-19 vaccination with the most recent socio-economic data to illustrate why accelerating vaccine equity was not only critical to saving lives but also to driving a faster and fairer recovery from the pandemic with benefits for all.

“In some low- and middle-income countries, less than one per cent of the population is vaccinated – this is contributing to a two-track recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic...It’s time for swift, collective action – this new COVID-19 Vaccine Equity Dashboard will provide Governments, policymakers and international organisations with unique insights to accelerate the global delivery of vaccines and mitigate the devastating socio-economic impacts of the pandemic," said UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner.

According to the new dashboard, which builds on data from multiple entities, including the International Monetary Fund ( IMF); World Bank; UNICEF and Gavi, and analysis on per capita GDP growth rates from the World Economic Outlook, richer countries are projected to vaccinate quicker and recover economically quicker from COVID-19, while poorer countries have not even been able to vaccinate their health workers and most atrisk population and may not achieve pre-COVID-19 lev-

els of growth until 2024.

Meanwhile, Delta and other variants are driving some countries to reinstate strict public health social measures. This issue, the WHO noted, is further worsening the social, economic and health impacts, especially for the most vulnerable and marginalised people. Vaccine inequity threatens all countries and risks reversing hard-won progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

WHO Director General, Dr Tedros Adhanom stated, “Vaccine inequity is the world’s biggest obstacle to ending this pandemic and recovering from COVID-19...Economically, epidemiologically and morally, it is in all countries' best interest to use the latest available data to make lifesaving vaccines available to all.”

Designed to empower policymakers and development partners to take urgent action to reduce vaccine inequity, the Global Dashboard breaks down the impact of accessibility against a target for countries to vaccinate their atrisk populations first to reduce mortality and protect the health system and then move on to vaccinating larger shares of the population to reduce disease burden and re-open socio-economic activity.

The Dashboard is facilitated by the Global Action Plan for Healthy Lives and Well-being for All (SDG3 GAP), which aims to improve collaboration across the multilateral system to support an equitable and resilient recovery from the pandemic and drive progress towards the health-related SDGs. (G12)

So far, there is no record of any appeal being filed by Persaud.

Moore, a father of two, was shot dead a short distance from his parents’ Old Road, Craig, EBD home by three men, who relieved him of his gold chain. At the time of his demise, Moore had arrived in Guyana two weeks prior from French Guiana to celebrate the Christmas season with his family.

During a sentencing hearing, Justice Kissoon had stated that Moore worked hard in Cayenne, and then came home for the Christmas season to spend time with his family, as is the custom among Guyanese. The Judge said the man was wearing his jewellery, thinking that he was in a safe place.

However, referring to Dawson and Persaud, Justice Kissoon noted, “[These] young, strong, able-bodied men conspired together and agreed to deprive [Moore] of his jewellery.”

From the evidence, the Judge said, Persaud and Dawson pounced on the unarmed man who had refused to part with his possessions.

While he underscored that the killers’ age was a significant factor that gives rise to the inference of them being good candidates for rehabilitation, Justice Kissoon pointed out that the aggravating factors also had to be considered by the court in determining an appropriate sentence.

For one, he noted that Moore was shot dead during a violent robbery. According to the Judge, injuries were inflicted to the vulnerable parts of the now dead man’s body. Moore was shot twice – once to the left side chest

Dead: Purcell Moore

and also to his head. “Youths with unlicensed guns…are now preying on innocent citizens.”

“A family that was preparing to celebrate Christmas was left to confront grief, death, and the loss of a loved one,” Justice Kissoon added. He declared that citizens must feel free to carry on with their lives without the fear of being robbed or attacked.

“This callous crime and course of conduct displayed by [Persaud and Dawson] must be addressed.

Members of society ought to be free to move about… whether in the precinct of the business community in downtown Georgetown, in their neighbourhood, or their homes…”

Considering this, he noted that the sentence of the court must not only fit the dastardly act committed by the duo, but also serve as a deterrent to like-minded offenders.

Meanwhile, Moore’s mother, Gloria, described her son as a very good man. “…he was very good to me, even to the people in the village. If anybody asked him for anything, he would give it to them. He used to assist

me in many, many ways.

He used to go and do shopping for me. I do surely miss him.

“There is not a day in my life that I do not take his picture and look at it. It really broke my spirit and my heart, because I never expected this would be the end of his life. I hope the court would give them a life sentence, because he has smaller children…I am very heartbroken,” the woman said as she cried.

Persaud, in a short statement to the court, said, “I am sorry for the wrong things we did. And forgive us for the wrong things.”

Dawson, on the other hand, stated, “I am very sorry for my mistake and sinful act.

I am asking for forgiveness and for the court to please have mercy on us and be lenient on us.”

The killers’ lawyers, Adrian Thompson and Damien DaSilva, during a plea in mitigation, begged the Judge to temper justice with mercy. The lawyers alluded to their clients’ youthfulness. They told the court that their clients are extremely remorseful – a factor that influenced their early guilty pleas.

For her part, Prosecutor Lisa Cave urged Justice Kissoon to impose a sentence that reflects the serious nature and prevalence of felony murder. “Over the years, there has been an increase in gun violence…,” she noted, adding that the sentence must send a strong message that such crimes will not be tolerated.

Another man, Wayne Anthony Chester, called “Sharky”, is currently on remand, awaiting trial at the Demerara High Court for Moore’s murder.

16 NEWS

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

“Because We Care” cash grant initiative

Over $200M to be distributed to Region 10 parents – Manickchand T

he “Because We Care” cash grant programme moved on Thursday to Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), where Education Minister Priya Manickchand said that she had no doubt in her mind that the parents of Guyana would use the money for the benefit of their children.

Manickchand said that parents of Guyana make sacrifices for their children to ensure they have a better life, adding that “that’s what you live for. Even though you may be doing well, we know you could do with a hand. I have no doubt in mind that when we give this grant and when we give it in cash that it would be used mostly for your children.”

She said that thousands of parents in Region 10 were scheduled to receive the grant – a collective value of

Education Minister Priya Manickchand speaking with parents at Christianburg/Wismar Secondary School

more than $200 million.

The Minister said that each parent knew best what their children needed better than anyone else and should be given the liberty to decide how to make their children’s lives better and not be constrained by the limits a voucher imposed.

Reiterating that the

grant was not limited to traditional educational items, she said it could be used to purchase anything that was of service to children.

“We are saying you can use this in any way that is in service to your children and once that happens, you will have happier children in the classroom who are more re-

ceptive to the education that we are trying to deliver in the schools,” Manickchand is quoted by a release from the Education Ministry as saying.

She also reminded parents in Linden that the grant would increase incrementally under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government until it reached $50,000 per child.

Moreover, she urged parents to provide the much-needed support to the children at home so that they could focus more on their school work which would result in better outcomes. On the issue of the pandemic, Manickchand explained to parents that the COVID-19 vaccination rate was closely related to the possibility of schools reopening to physical teaching/learning.

She said that despite the many interventions by the

Some of the parents waiting to collect their cash grant

Education Ministry and its teachers to keep children engaged, student performance has dropped. She said that studies show that the longer school doors remain closed, children will suffer from learning loss and more students would drop out. As such, Minister Manickchand made the plea to parents to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

The “Because We Care” cash grant programme was launched in Region 10 at the Christianburg/Wismar Secondary School in Linden.

The monetary grant, which is valued at $19,000, comprises the “Because We Care” grant of $15,000 and the value of the School Uniform and Supplies grant, $4000.

No more roadside vending will be allowed – Anna Regina Mayor …vendors protest decision

T

o facilitate the construction of a new road in the vicinity of the Anna Regina old market, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), the Mayor and Town Council has been battling with roadside vending.

Mayor Rajendra Prabulall said that the construction of the market road would commence shortly and as such, vendors on the road shoulders should demolish all wooden stalls.

However, his call has been met with resistance,

Notice letters were sent to vendors on July 15, 2021, in keeping with the municipality’s vision for the town.

"There is a lot of work going on at Bush Lot where

Vendors protesting in front of Anna Regina Town Council

as scores of roadside vendors staged another protest against the decision.

all ground workers are to clean the market... The Regional Administration,

in collaboration with the Anna Regina Town Council, has started work on the tarmac ... vendors were well aware that construction of the market road will commence shortly and are reluctant to move,” Prabulall said on Thursday.

He added that he was concerned about vendors intruding on Government reserves and the public road, and warned that these persons must demolish all permanent structures within seven days.

The Mayor stated that vendors could occupy space at the Cotton Field tarmac to sell their produce, adding that the market road was in a deplorable state and as such, a proper road needed to be built.

"We will work with the vendors... Some can remain at the old market while some can occupy space at the Bush Lot market and the tarmac in the township of Anna Regina, because the road work has to begin and there will be a lot of risk for the vendors as well as customers facilitating the road at that point of time... Large amount of stones, sands and huge machinery will at the site during the massive project and, therefore, people will

Vendors protesting in front of the Anna Regina Town Council

not go purchase vegetables, as there will be risks," the Mayor explained.

Prabulall also stated that there were more than 300 spots within the market area waiting to be occupied by vendors and, therefore, vendors should cooperate with the Council in assisting in the beautification of Anna Regina.

It was decided by the Council that the environs of the Anna Regina High Bridge and the passageway leading to the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) building must be cleared.

The Mayor further said that the Council has invested millions of dollars in solar lights, repainting and refurbishing stalls, and other works to make vendors comfortable and

the environment conducive for selling. He added that if vendors were having difficulties in vending using shift stalls or moving, they should apply for stands at Bush Lot Market.

However, disgruntled

vendors related that they would not move as their livelihood would be affected. Provision farmer Satesh Mangra said that "the fee the Council was charging for vending on the roadside was $2000 per day”, adding that with the high price of provisions because of the recent flooding, there were low sales “and if we move, most of our usual customers will no longer purchase produce from us."

A vegetable farmer, Sattie Singh related that vending was her living, as it puts food on her table and pays her bills. Singh added that she was a single mother of three and vending provided necessities for her family.

Man in custody for raping 16-year-old

A

25-year-old man is now in Police custody after he allegedly raped a 16-year-old girl in April 2021.

The incident occurred in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni).

Based on information released by the Police, the teenager was at a local store when the suspect demand-

ed sex from her. She refused, but he persisted and overpowered her.

The man ended up raping the teen before making his escape.

A Police report was filed on Thursday, July 22 and the suspect was subsequently apprehended.

He is currently in custody as investigations continue.

17 Govt looking at measures for reopening of cinemas NEWS

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

– only vaccinated persons would be allowed in

A

s the Guyana Government seeks to toughen its COVID-19 vaccination campaign, measures are currently being looked at for the reopening of cinemas in Guyana, and the proposals include that only persons who are vaccinated against the life-threatening virus would be allowed in.

This is according to President Dr Irfaan Ali, who told reporters on Thursday that the cinema industry has been clamouring to be reopened.

“We’re looking at a proposal for the reopening with all the guidelines and certain additions in terms of the [high-efficiency particulate air] filters at 40 per cent capacity. However, to qualify to go, you have to be vaccinated, you have to have that vaccination card… and once you’re in the theatre, you have to keep on your mask. That is one proposal on the table,” the Head of State noted.

He went on to reveal that similar considerations are being given to expand the capacity at social places such as restaurants.

Presently, restaurants, bars and other similar places are allowed to operate at a 40 per cent capacity for in-

door dining; and according to President Ali, a proposal is on the table to increase this capacity to 60 per cent.

However, he added that in order to protect citizens, only the vaccinated would be allowed in those places.

“So, if you want to go to Palm Court and you want to go to the movies… then you have to be vaccinated. If you’re not vaccinated, then you have to wait a bit,” he stated.

President Ali pointed out that these are just some of the different models that are being adopted worldwide to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic.

He went on to outline that the pandemic is not a joke, and so Government has to toughen its approach to ensure that the population is protected.

While acknowledging that persons have democratic rights, he reminded that they also have a social responsibility. The President said responsible persons who took the vaccine to protect themselves and their families cannot be put at risk by an irresponsible few who chose not to get immunised.

“We have to find the balance… So, whatever measure we put in place has to

President Dr Irfaan Ali

bring balance to the equation, so that the responsible act [persons have] made by taking the vaccine is not subjected to [someone else’s] irresponsibility,” he asserted.

He was at the time referencing proposed guidelines by the Private Sector Commission (PSC), which in a statement earlier this week expressed concerns over the growing number of COVID-19 infections and deaths caused mainly by persons who are not fully vaccinated.

The PSC said in its missive that it is ready and willing to support all and any action taken by Government to protect the population from the surge of this pandemic, including a gazetted comprehensive

policy which will ensure that vaccinated citizens are protected against exposure from those who exercise the freedom to refuse to be vaccinated.

The Guyana Government launched its COVID-19 vaccination exercise back in February, and is aggressively rolling it out in the various regions across the country using the AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine, the Russian-made Sputnik V vaccine, and the Chinesemanufactured Sinopharm vaccine.

To date, some 244,365 persons or 50.2 per cent of the country’s adult population have taken the first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, while some 129,361 persons or 26.6 per cent of the adult population have been fully

vaccinated.

Meanwhile, during the interview with reporters on Thursday, the Guyanese Leader was asked about his Government’s position on mandatory vaccination for the travelling public. He explained that the Caribbean Community (Caricom) has adopted a posture, with the exception of Trinidad and Tobago, to accept citizens from any member state who are vaccinated.

According to President Ali, one has to be realistic with what is happening in the world; hence, he posited that Guyana’s position to accept negative PCR tests from persons arriving in the country would remain for the time being.

“As you know, globally, the vaccine rate is very, very low, and this is one of the consequences of vaccine inequality. Because if you’re to say only vaccinated persons can travel, then those developing countries that never had the opportunity to even get access to the vaccine are automatically left out of the equation. So that is why the PCR has to remain in place until there is some level of equity,” the Head of State contended.

Moreover, it is because

of this very vaccine inequality that President Ali said his Government had to turn to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to procure the Sputnik V jabs.

The UAE had facilitated Guyana’s first purchase of the COVID-19 vaccine.

However, Government had come under criticism from certain quarters, particularly the APNU/ AFC Opposition, for going through the Middle East to acquire the vaccines – a move which President Ali defended once again on Thursday.

“My only focus and the focus of Government is the protection of the lives of the people of Guyana, and I made it clear from day one that I’m going after the vaccines. There is no price to the life of the people of this country. We’ve tried every single source, we tried every single manufacturer, we tried every single embassy, ambassador, country and state to get the vaccine, and we got it from this source. And the only thing that matters to me is that we got it from this source, and I know that it has helped us tremendously in the fight against COVID,” the President asserted.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021

Regional

Violence overshadows memorial YouTube removes Bolsonaro service for slain Haitian President videos for COVID misinformation

A

priest told mourners at a memorial service Thursday for slain President Jovenel Moise that too much blood is being shed in Haiti as authorities warned of more violence before his funeral.

The Reverend JeanGilles Sem spoke to dozens of people wearing white T-shirts emblazoned with Moise’s picture.

“The killings and kidnappings should stop,” he said, noting that poor communities are the most affected.

“We’re tired.”

The mass at the cathedral in the northern coastal city of Cap-Haitien was about half-full as officials warned other events planned for later in the day could be cancelled amid concerns about violence.

Moïse supporters kept interrupting the mass as they cried out and accused Haiti’s elite of killing the President.

A man who identified himself as John Jovie stood outside the church with a group of men and threatened more violence if wealthy members of the elite from the capital of Port-au-Prince

Y

A man crying during the wake of slain Haitian President Jovenel Moïse at the Notre Dame Cathedral in Cap-Haitien, Haiti [Ricardo Arduengo/Reuters]

showed up for the ceremonies.

“We ask them not to come to the funeral,” he said. “If they come, we will cut their heads off. We will bring our guns out of hiding …We want justice for Moïse.”

The mayor of CapHaitien arrived at the cathedral with heavy security as men with high-powered weapons stood watch during the entire mass.

Demonstrations after the mass turned violent on Thursday afternoon with protesters shooting into the air, throwing rocks and

overturning heavy concrete barricades next to the seashore as businesses closed and people took cover.

Some people signed a blue condolences book that the mayor’s office had set up near the cathedral as well-wishers stood before a portrait of Moïse and rows of candles whose flames flickered in the hot wind.

The mass was held a day after violence erupted in Quartier-Morin, located between Cap-Haitien and Moïse’s hometown.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

UNC Deputy Political Leader: Let Tobago respond to PM on THA polls

U

nited National Congress (UNC) deputy political leader Jearlean John said all stakeholders in Tobago must have their say on the Prime Minister’s announcement that the island’s electorate will be returning to the polls soon, in an attempt to break the six-six Tobago House of Assembly (THA) election deadlock of January 25.

At the post-Cabinet news conference at the Prime Minister’s official residence in Blenhein, Tobago on Thursday, Dr Rowley said the Cabinet had approved the proclamation of the THA (Amendment) Act

2021.

Within 90 days of the act being proclaimed law on July 26, he said, the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) must give Rural Development and Local Government Minister Kazim Hosein a report outlining the boundaries of the 15 electoral districts the legislation proposes.

Once this is approved by the House of Representatives, he said, there is a 60-90 day window within which the THA election can be called.

With no new assembly in place and the existing THA Act allowing only the Chief

Secretary to dissolve the assembly to hold an election, Dr Rowley said this new law would provide for the election date to be called after the Chief Secretary consults with the President and the Prime Minister But John said of the electoral tie of January 25 (six seats each for the People’s National Movement (PNM) and Progressive Democratic Patriots (PDP)), “No six is bigger than the other six.

As a consequence we believe the Tobago people, the PDP, etc, should be allowed to respond to the Prime Minister’s statement.”

(Excerpt from Trinidad Newsday)

Personal sacrifice important, says Mottley

B

arbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley has said on the occasion of Eid al-Adha there can be no better time to speak to the importance of personal sacrifice for the good of the larger community now.

“This week, as members of the Islam faith celebrate Eid al-Adha, there can be no better time to speak to the importance of personal sacrifice for the good of the larger community now,” she declared.

“And it is especially for this reason that I am honoured to be able to join Muslims in Barbados and around the world in com-

memorating this most important occasion on their calendar. Our world today has become a much more challenging place for so many of its inhabitants because too often we accepted selfishness over selflessness.

“Eid al-Adha, which has its origins in the willingness of the Prophet Abraham to sacrifice his son Ishmael on the instructions of his God, presents an alternative pathway to a better destination — a world in which the well-being of our brothers and sisters is as important to each of us as our own.

“In a world where COVID-19 has brought untold suffering to every corner

of the globe, we know that a return to “normal” — even if it is a new normal — will depend on more selflessness and less selfishness by every citizen.

“We can all choose to always wear our masks in public, because we don’t want to put others at risk. We can all choose to sanitise and physical distance because we do not want to jeopardise the welfare of our loved ones.

We can all choose to be vaccinated, because we know our economy, and consequently, our neighbours and friends will continue to suffer financial hardship if we don’t push back against the virus.”

(Excerpt from Nation News)

ouTube says it has removed videos posted

by Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, because they spread misinformation about coronavirus.

The tech giant said its decision was not based on ideology or politics, but on its content policies.

Since the start of the pandemic, the President has spoken out against lockdowns, masks, and vaccinations.

His office has not commented on YouTube’s decision, which affects 15 videos, local media say.

His channel features weekly national addresses, and conversations with Ministers about various issues – some of which are livestreamed.

According to news outlet O Globo, one video shows Eduardo Pazuello, Brazil’s former Health Minister, comparing coronavirus with AIDS.

“Post-HIV pandemic, HIV continues to exist. There are still some who are contaminated, most are treated, and life goes on,” said Pazuello.

In another video of a CNN broadcast, a Brazilian doctor recommended hydroxychloroquine, a malaria drug, and the anti-parasitic drug ivermectin as treatments against COVID-19.

So far their efficacy in treating the virus is unproven.

YouTube said it does not allow content on its platform that promotes either substance as an effective treatment. It also said its rules for-

bid videos that say masks do not help to prevent the spread of the virus.

This is not the first time that major digital platforms have taken President Bolsonaro’s videos down. Last year Twitter and Facebook removed videos of him railing against social distancing measures, and claiming that high case numbers would make Brazil immune to Covid.

Brazil has grappled with one of the world’s largest and deadliest outbreaks of coronavirus, and the President has faced mounting criticism for his handling of the crisis.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

“Just the beginning”: US imposes new sanctions on Cuba

T

he United States imposed sanctions on a senior Cuban security official and an Interior Ministry brigade following a crackdown on anti-Government protests earlier this month, the US Treasury Department announced Thursday.

The move marks the first concrete steps by President Joe Biden’s Administration to apply pressure on the Cuban Government as the United States faces calls from US lawmakers and the CubanAmerican community to show greater support for the protesters.

“This is just the beginning,” Biden said in a statement. “The United States will continue to sanction individuals responsible for oppression of the Cuban people.”

“I unequivocally condemn the mass detentions and sham trials that are unjustly sentencing to prison those who dared to speak out in an effort to intimidate and threaten the

The move marks the first concrete steps by President Joe Biden’s Administration to apply pressure on the Cuban Government as the United States faces calls from US lawmakers and the CubanAmerican community to show greater support for the protesters [Jose Luis Magana/AP Photo]

Cuban people into silence,” said Biden.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters, “We’ve made clear over the last week that addressing this moment was a priority for the Administration.”

The Treasury Department named 78-year-old Cuban national Alvaro Lopez Miera and

the Interior Ministry as targets of the sanctions.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez, in a message on Twitter, rejected the sanctions as “unfounded and slanderous”, and urged the United States to apply such measures to its own record of “daily repression and policy brutality”. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Jamaica’s COVID numbers moving in wrong direction — Tufton

J

amaica’s Health and Wellness Minister, Dr Christopher Tufton says current COVID numbers suggest that the country is moving in the wrong direction which is a cause for concern.

Speaking during the Ministry’s COVID Conversations digital press conference on Thursday, Dr Tufton noted that the country’s transmission rate is increas-

ing and said recent weeks have seen an uptick in the positivity rate as well.

“Up to yesterday it was some 13.8 per cent with the seven-day average now at just under 10 per cent, 9.8 per cent…We really want that rate to be five per cent or less. The fact that it is moving up is a cause for concern,” Dr Tufton said.

He said 259 or 33 per cent of 783 communities, as defined by STATIN,

have COVID-19 cases.

This means that a third of communities have existing COVID cases based on surveillance.

He added that hospitalisations over the last seven days have increased from 199 to 251.

“This is not good for the country and as it relates to COVID, this is not the direction we want to head in to,” the Minister said.

(Jamaica Observer)

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021

19

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS Oil up US$1.50/bbl as demand recovery seen tightening supply

O

il prices rose about US$1.50 a barrel on Thursday, extending gains made in the previous three sessions on expectations of tighter supplies through 2021 as economies recover from the coronavirus crisis.

Brent crude settled at US$73.79 a barrel, up US$1.56, or 2.2 per cent, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) settled at US$71.91 a barrel, rising US$1.61, or 2.3 per cent.

"The death of demand was greatly exaggerated," said Phil Flynn, senior analyst at Price Futures Group in Chicago. "Demand is not going away, so we're back looking at a very tight market."

Members of the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and other producers including Russia, collectively known as OPEC+, agreed this week on a deal to boost oil supply by 400,000 barrels per day from August to December to cool prices and meet growing demand.

But as demand was still set to outstrip supply in the second half of the year, Morgan Stanley forecast that global benchmark Brent will trade in the mid to high-US$70s per barrel for the remainder of 2021.

"In the end, the global GDP (Gross Domestic Product) recovery will likely remain on track, inventory data continues to be encouraging, our balances show tightness in H2 and we expect OPEC to remain cohesive," it said.

Russia may start the process of banning gasoline exports next week if fuel prices on domestic exchanges stay at current levels, Energy Minister Nikolai Shulginov said, further signalling tighter oil supplies ahead.

Crude inventories in the United States, the world's top oil consumer, rose unexpectedly by 2.1 million barrels last week to 439.7 million barrels, up for the first time since May, US Energy Information Administration (EIA) data showed. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Major websites hit by global outage

M

any popular websites fell offline on Thursday in a widespread global outage of service.

Visitors attempting to reach some sites received DNS errors, meaning their requests could not reach the websites.

Affected services included Airbnb, UPS, HSBC bank, British Airways and the PlayStation network used for online games.

One popular DNS provider, Akamai, reported "an emerging issue" with its Edge DNS service.

It has now tweeted that the issue has been fixed and "the service is resuming normal operations".

Internet outage monitoring platform DownDetector had reported thousands of problems from its users across dozens of platforms.

Previously, it said the issue had been a "partial outage" – and some users reported being able to access some compromised services in different regions.

As some websites began to appear again for users

It is the second such widespread outage in two months

in Europe and the United States, others in Asian nations continued to report problems.

DNS – short for Domain Name System – turns the human-readable web addresses we use, such as bbc. com, into addresses that point to a computer server somewhere online.

Disruptions often mean that a web browser cannot find the content it is looking for.

Other affected services reported by DownDetector included: Banks such as Barclays, Lloyds, TSB, and Halifax; gaming services including Steam, Call of Duty,

As Taliban advances, Afghan military overhauls war strategy to limit losses

Half of Europeans vaccinated, but concern grows over Delta variant An Afghan Policeman keeps watch at the check post on the outskirts of Kabul, Afghanistan, July 13, 2021

M

ore than half of all European adults are now fully vaccinated, the European Union said, but the milestone came as countries across the world are battling fresh outbreaks blamed on the fast-spreading Delta variant.

The EU said on Thursday that 200 million Europeans had been fully vaccinated, more than half of the adult population, but still short of a 70 per cent target set for the summer.

The fresh data came as German Chancellor Angela Merkel said cases in her country were rising “exponentially” and she urged more Germans to get jabs.

“The number of infections has been rising again for a few days now, with a clear and, in my opinion, worrying momentum. The whole thing is driven by the Delta variant

R of the coronavirus,” she said at a Berlin news conference on Thursday.

Germany has seen an incidence rate of 12.2 new cases per 100,000 people over the past seven days – more than double the rates in early July.

“With a rising incidence rate, it could be that we need to introduce additional measures,” she said.

Germany joins a number of European nations that have seen cases climb in recent weeks spurred by the Delta variant, first detected in India.

European Central Bank chief Christine Lagarde warned of growing economic uncertainty caused by the Delta variant, as the bank kept its vast stimulus for the eurozone firmly in place following a meeting of its 25-member governing council. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

eeling from a surge in battlefield losses, Afghanistan's military is overhauling its war strategy against the Taliban to concentrate forces around the most critical areas like Kabul and other cities, border crossings and vital infrastructure, Afghan and US officials say.

The politically perilous strategy will inevitably cede territory to Taliban insurgents. But officials say it appears to be a militarily necessity as over-stretched Afghan troops try to prevent the loss of provincial capitals, which could deeply fracture the country.

The consolidation of forces, which has been publicly acknowledged but not reported in such detail before, coincides with the US military withdrawal ahead of a formal end to the military mission on August 31, on orders from President Joe Biden.

Taliban insurgents are gaining control of more

and more territory, which the Pentagon estimated on Wednesday now extends to over half of half Afghanistan's district centres. The Taliban is also putting pressure on the outskirts of half of the provincial capitals, trying to isolate them.

US intelligence assessments have warned that the Afghan Government could fall in as little as six months, US officials told Reuters.

One Afghan official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the "reorientation" of troops would help Kabul hold strategic territory and defend infrastructure, including a dam built with India's assistance, and major highways.

But consolidating troops also means leaving other areas unguarded, a hard sell to Afghan communities or ethnic groups who will feel they are being abandoned to the Taliban. (Excerpt from Reuters)

and EA; streaming services on Channel 4 and ITV

It is the second such widespread outage in two months.

In June, cloud computing provider Fastly had an interrupted service which took down a large number of high-profile websites around the world, including many international newspapers and Government websites.

In that case, it later emerged that a settings change by one customer had inadvertently affected the entire infrastructure.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Ethiopia Tigray crisis: New front opens in war as aid fears grow

A

bloody eight-month battle for control of the north Ethiopian state of Tigray has spilled over into the neighbouring region of Afar in the past week.

At least 20 civilians have been killed and 54,000 people have been displaced, reports say, as fears grow of a fast-developing humanitarian crisis.

Several people in Afar told the BBC the rebel Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) had killed civilians.

This accusation has not been independently verified.

The BBC has also heard reports of numerous airstrikes targeting TPLF positions in Afar over the past few days.

The TPLF are fighting the Ethiopian army and its allies in Afar, which borders Tigray. A spokesperson for Afar has said the Tigrayan fighters captured three districts in Afar this week.

Activists in Afar say there is a desperate need for food, water, and emergency shelter.

The TPLF were the regional government of Tigray until they were ousted by federal forces last November. The TPLF has been designated a terrorist organisation by the Ethiopian Government, but the rebels say they are the legitimate regional Government of Tigray.

Multiple sources in Afar told the BBC that TPLF fighters had killed civilians in districts such as Yallo and Awra, as well as looting and setting fire to homes.

One resident who fled Yallo district two days ago said some people had been killed while attending a funeral.

A TPLF spokesman tweeted that the rebels were not at war with the Afar people, but with Ethiopia's leaders.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Brexit: No breakthrough on NI protocol after PM speaks to EU chief

B

ritish Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Union Head Ursula von der Leyen have failed to reach agreement on UK demands to reshape post-Brexit arrangements in Northern Ireland.

The PM and President of the European Commission spoke earlier about the UK's suggested changes to the Northern Ireland protocol.

Von der Leyen said that the EU would "not renegotiate" the original deal.

But a Downing Street spokesman said the PM reiterated the protocol was "unsustainable" and must be changed.

Johnson also urged German Chancellor Angela Merkel to consider "significant changes" to the agreement during a call on Thursday, No 10 said.

The UK and EU agreed the Northern Ireland Protocol in 2019, as part of the Brexit

withdrawal agreement.

It prevents a hard border in Ireland by keeping Northern Ireland in the EU single market for goods.

The UK Government has previously said that border checks imposed on goods from Great Britain it signed up to in the Brexit divorce deal had proved to be unworkable.

On Wednesday, the UK's Brexit Minister Lord Frost set out a new set of demands to re-shape the agreement.

He said disruption caused by the protocol meant the UK would be within its rights to activate Article 16 in the protocol, which allows parts of the deal to be unilaterally overridden.

But he said it would not do so now, and would instead seek to negotiate changes with the EU during planned talks over the summer. (Excerpt from BBC News)

20

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021

guyanatimesgy.com

ARCHIE

ARIES (March 21April 19)

TAURUS

DILBERT

(April 20May 20)

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

CANCER (June 21July 22)

PEANUTS

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Take a moment to look at every angle of a situation before you make a move. Patience and discipline will help you navigate your way through situations that can determine how your life will unfold.

Embrace change, learn all you can and make adjustments that will help you reach your goal. Refuse to let your emotions stand between you and what’s correct or best for you.

Listen carefully. Take your time, and make decisions based on facts and figures, not on hearsay. Don’t get involved in something just because someone close to you does.

If you look for a good deal, you’ll find one. Ask questions, negotiate on your behalf and don’t settle for less than what you want.

Change begins with you, so don’t let anyone push you.

Hidden matters will surface. Don’t ignore what’s going on around you, or you will miss an opportunity to excel.

An innovative idea will put you in the spotlight and lead to a positive collaboration.

Expand your interests, and you will discover opportunities that will encourage you to follow a new and exciting path. Selfimprovement projects are encouraged. Romance will enrich your day.

Keep your thoughts to yourself and avoid getting into a battle. Channel your energy into something that makes you feel good about yourself. An opportunity will unfold if you take part in community events.

Touch base with people you don’t see often, and you’ll receive valuable information. Choosing to follow a path that is out of the ordinary will give you something to work toward.

Time is on your side.

SAGITTARIUS Slow down, enjoy the mo(Nov. 23ment and refrain from parDec. 21) ticipating in events that promote indulgent behavior.

Keep your money in a safe place, and avoid unnecessary expenditures.

Plan something you can CAPRICORN enjoy with a friend or loved (Dec. 22one. An opportunity to disJan. 19) cuss your intentions will lead to a long-term plan and positive lifestyle changes.

Speak from the heart.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

You are heading in the right direction, so don’t start making changes to accommodate someone else. Do your own thing and stand behind your dreams, hopes and wishes.

PISCES

A proactive approach will help you maintain leverage when trying to get your way.

Rely on experience and knowledge to back your plans. A positive change looks promising, as long as you don’t hesitate.

(Feb. 20March 20)

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021

21

Behind the scenes of the journey to Tokyo T

– Tests galore, app woes and lengthy airport waits

he journey to Tokyo 2020 has been a long and uncertain one.

Postponed by 12 months as a result of the coronavirus pandemic that continues to wreak havoc across the globe, it was by no means certain the Olympics would happen at all.

But here we are, just a day away from the opening ceremony, as the last of the athletes, officials and world's media descend on the Japanese capital for Games like no other.

Here, Stats Perform's reporter on the ground, Peter Hanson, documents his journey from Sheffield to Tokyo in a behind-the-curtain look at what it has taken to be part of the Olympics.

Online systems and important organised fun For me and thousands of others, the trip to Tokyo technically started months in advance. To put it lightly, the organisers absolutely love an online system.

There's a system for accommodation details, there's a system for arrivals and departures at the airport, there's a system for registering health information, there's a system for each media organisation to nominate a COVID Liaison Officer (CLO) – whose job it is to inform Tokyo 2020 of any positive COVID-19 tests within the team. Given I'm the only fulltime Stats Perform member on the ground in Tokyo, that responsibility fell to me, and I am responsible for…well, me.

On top of that, there's an Activity Plan to fill out, send back and ultimately get approval for by the Japanese Government. Admittedly, on the surface, you may think this all sounds like a bit of "organised fun", but in truth it's an extremely important part of the process, as it allows you to list all the venues you plan on visiting for the first 14 days of your stay in Tokyo.

Getting this ratified is crucial, because, for those first two weeks, you have to agree not to stray anywhere outside of those destinations or your hotel, while the use of public transport is not permitted.

A day before I travelled, I received a call from Tokyo 2020 to tell me my plan will be approved on the condition I agree to quarantine for three days at my hotel, due to conditions on UK residents entering Japan amid a spike in coronavirus cases in Britain.

Go with the (lateral) flow With all of that (finally) taken care of, the path is

but luckily there was a workaround, whereby I could fill out an online health questionnaire and print off a written pledge. Sounds simple enough, but it turns out the issue of the app not working was not exactly rare…

At this stage, it's only fair to pay credit to the rushed staff at Haneda, going around taking accreditation numbers, liaising with Games officials, and eventually helping the hordes of media and officials progress to the next part of the process, after more than a groggy two-hour wait.

fiddly, yet relatively clear – but it's a path that involves testing, testing and testing again.

Indeed, against the wisdom of our parents, who tell us from a very young age not to stick foreign objects in our orifices, I start the process of taking a lateral flow test every day a fortnight out from my flight to Tokyo. As each day progresses, the results of these tests become more and more nervy, as any positive case at that point would have almost certainly curtailed any hope I had of covering the Games from Tokyo, and ensured months of stress amounted to nought.

Then the really crucial tests come just days before departure. To enter Japan, a certificate of a negative test must be produced – one within 96 hours of take-off and one within 72.

Helpfully, the British Olympics Association helped facilitate these tests via Randox, a private testing company, and both certificates arrived with ample time before my flight.

The day of…

So, with activity plans in place and tests conducted, the real "fun" could begin…

My own personal journey on the day began with a 6am wake-up alarm in order to take one last lateral flow test, prior to a 10am train from Sheffield to London St Pancras. From there, it's another hour on the Piccadilly line getting from central London to Heathrow Airport.

At this stage it's time to let you into a little personal secret. I am one of "those" people. The kind of people who like to arrive around six weeks early at the airport to make sure I'm on time for my flight…

I was at the airport six hours before my flight, which meant I had two hours to kill before I could even check in my case and, understandably, a contingent from TeamGB has first dibs on processing their luggage to delay things a little longer.

The check-in process at this stage was relatively normal, bar having to show proof of the negative COVID certificate, and the journey through security was also straightforward.

By the time I was at the other side, there was still around three hours until departure, leaving ample time for that age-old British tradition…a beer and burger at Wetherspoons.

App woe and lenghty waits at Haneda By now (partly due to my own being late to the airport anxiety) the journey to Tokyo had already lasted around nine hours…now there was just the little matter of a 12-and-a-half-hour flight to Haneda Airport to get through.

The flight itself was nothing out of the ordinary, save for a few bumpy moments of turbulence. It was your standard fill out the customs forms, eat the flight food (I'm one of those strange folks who actually quite enjoy the in-flight meals…) and watch the on-board entertainment.

My choices were "Avengers: Endgame", "Joker" and couple of episodes of the Big Bang Theory…yes, I know, the last one is completely rubbish, but I needed something to pass the time, as any attempt at sleep was now futile!

So, the flight itself was pretty mundane, but this was where the sleep-deprived hard work began.

As soon as everyone

stepped off the plane, we were split into two lines.

One for domestic arrivals, who sailed onto immigration with a breeze. The other, significantly longer, line was for media and other Gamesrelated stakeholders.

This was the start of the more arduous part of the

process.

Remember earlier when I mentioned the love of systems? Well, one of them was to have downloaded and logged into a health app named OCHA, designed specifically for the Games, which I was supposed to have signed into using my accreditation details…the only problem for me is it wasn't working, and hadn't been for weeks. Whenever I tried to log in, I was just getting greeted by an error message and weeks of back-and-forth, while the relevant helpline had not yielded success.

Now, having OCHA was supposed to be a prerequisite to get into the country,

Validation and lamination After that painstaking delay, the remainder of the airport process was lengthy but impressively smooth.

Firstly, there's the small case of another COVID test.

I first of all registered and picked up the sample kits and proceeded to the next room, which looked a little like something out of a sci-fi movie, and entered a private booth. The only difference here, at least for me, was that instead of using swabs like

back in the UK, the method of choice is a saliva antigen test where you essentially spit into a tube until you have enough of a sample to be analysed.

It's about as grim as it sounds.

Feeling slightly disgusted, my sample was dropped off, and there was another lengthy walk through to the holding area, where I waited for my test number to appear on a screen, almost like being at a deli counter in the supermarket.

After around an hour, I received a negative result, and the finish line was almost in sight. But first it was time to get my accreditation validated.

Again, the logistics of

this process were pretty flawless – it takes a good five-to-10 minutes to reach the accreditation desk, but the route is perfectly signposted, and in no time at all I have my fancy laminated accreditation on a lanyard, which will be used to get into all venues for the Games.

At last it was time to go through immigration, whereby I underwent the typical scrutiny you face when entering a country, and – much to my delight – despite a three-and-a-halfhour process, my luggage was still waiting on the carousel at the other side.

Shuttle buses and fancy taxi doors This is nothing against Haneda, or the awesome people organising this huge logistical task, but it was a real relief to be leaving the airport.

Feeling a little like a D-list Hollywood actor, when I arrived in the departure hall, I was whisked off outside by more helpful staff towards a shuttle bus, which took

me to a taxi pick-up point around 20 minutes away.

Here, each person was assigned to an individual vehicle.

After several attempts to open the passenger door, a kind lady helpfully pointed out that they are automatic, and will open when the driver enters the car…needless to say the sight of the door swinging open of its own accord blew my tiny South Yorkshire mind.

Another 20-minute journey followed until – at last – I arrived at my hotel, checked-in and settled down into my room…some 27 hours after leaving Sheffield.

(Sportsmax)

22

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021

Full time!

Maximo to leave Head Coach post after contract expires T

he Executive Committee of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and Marcio Maximo have reached a mutual and amicable agreement: that his current contract as Head Coach of the Guyana Senior Men’s National Team will not be renewed when it comes to an end on August 31, 2021.

The agreement comes in light of the fact that, following the CONCACAF Gold Cup and FIFA World Cup qualifiers, the Golden Jaguars will not take part in competitive football until May 2022, when the CONCACAF Nations League resumes. This period will allow the Executive Committee to reflect on and align the senior men’s national programme with its strategic objectives.

“We are grateful for the hard work, experience, energy and commitment that Coach Maximo brought to the programme over the last two years, especially his commendable efforts in developing Guyana-based players and introducing promising young talent such as Omari Glasgow and Nicholai Andrews early to the professional culture of international football,” said GFF President Wayne Forde.

“We cannot escape the fact that results did not materi-

Marcio Maximo

alise as we would have wanted this year, but there have been many positives during his time in charge – including a memorable draw away to Jamaica, and some big wins during the CONCACAF Nations League,” Forde said.

“Coach Maximo’s relentless focus on renewing the squad and building a professional national team structure in Guyana has laid solid foundations for the future growth of programme. On behalf of Guyana and our football fraternity, we thank him for his service, and wish him all the very best for what comes next.”

The GFF will announce its decision regarding a new Head Coach for the Golden Jaguars in the coming weeks.

Former Brazil U20 and U17 coach Maximo took

up the post in 2019, following the Golden Jaguars historic first appearance at the CONCACAF Gold Cup, and oversaw a total of 12 international matches, including competitive and friendly fixtures in the CONCACAF Nations League B, FIFA World Cup qualifiers, and CONCACAF Gold Cup. During that time, Guyana won five, drew one, and lost six international games.

“I am very grateful and proud to work here… I am very happy with what we did – of course, always you want more,” Maximo said in an exclusive interview with the GFF’s media channel, GFFNOW. “I’ve enjoyed it, but I’m professional – the cycle is finished and you should move

2nd West Indies-Australia ODI postponed due to positive COVID-19 test

T

he second oneday international match between the West Indies and Australia has been suspended due to a Windies support staff member testing positive for COVID-19 in Barbados.

Confirmation of a positive case came only minutes before the first ball was to be bowled at the Kensington Oval. Players, support and match officials were given the news shortly after the toss had been completed, and both teams immediately made their way back into their respective dressing rooms.

Cricket West Indies issued a statement a short time later, confirming that a member of their support staff had returned the positive test.

The two teams were then bussed back to their hotel, where both teams and broadcast staff are staying while in a bio-secure bubble.

All personnel inside the bubble have been placed into isolation, and will be re-tested later today.

“A decision on when the match will be replayed will be made at a later date, once all the test results are confirmed,” Cricket West Indies said in a release.

Both teams, as well as broadcast personnel and match officials, have been in a bio-secure bubble for the five-T20, three-ODI series being played in the Caribbean.

The teams have stayed on separate floors of the hotels in both St Lucia and Barbados, but all personnel inside the bubble travelled on the same charter plane from Saint Lucia, where

the T20 series was played, to Barbados on Saturday.

It is a jarring blow not only for the series, but also for Riley Meredith, who was set to make his ODI debut, and had his cap presented to him by Aaron Finch only minutes before news of the positive case filtered through.

Australia were scheduled to play the Windies in a third ODI on Saturday, but the positive case has put the rest of the tour in doubt.

The Aussies are scheduled to fly to Dhaka next week, after only confirming the series would go ahead on Thursday (AEST). It is the first time the virus has infiltrated the bubble of a series involving Australia.

The West Indies men’s team have previously toured the United Kingdom and New Zealand without incident, while they also successfully hosted India last summer.

on,” the former Livingston FC (Scotland) and Tanzania coach said.

“My cycle as Head Coach of the Golden Jaguars is finished, but the cycle continues. We did the foundation here, now they should work on this continuously, because the Golden Jaguars have a brilliant future. There is no other way for Guyana: You should renew the team and you should continue in this way,” he said.

“We jumped nine places in the FIFA ranking since we arrived, we renewed the team – if you continue like that, you will jump more, and soon Guyana,

in one or two years, can play equal conditions with the best teams in the Caribbean, with a younger team, and can produce a lot of players to export and import players at a good level.”

This year, the Golden Jaguars were unable to progress to the second round of the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification process, and were also knocked out at the preliminary round stage of the 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cup, meaning that the senior men’s national programme fell short of key performance targets set by the GFF.

F1 teams could face penalties if they visit race stewards without an invitation

CLASSIFIED ADS FOR SALE Mix Breed Puppies for Sale. Contact: Tel- 253-3114/692-0126.

Building 60 x 30 unfinished Concrete Structure (Water and Lighting available) 4 Apartments – to be completed at bottom flatLand size 40 x 90 (Already filled), Septic tank and trestle completed. 2-minute drive from new Highway Grove Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara. One corner away from Police Station.

Price: $24 mil. (negotiable) For more information call: 673-9231/ 6168049/ 216-4063

SERVICE Looking to start your own business but don’t know how? Cerulean has helped over 100 entrepreneurs begin a path towards financial freedom. Let Cerulean Inc guide you through the uncertainty of startup and set you on the path to financial freedom.

Register for training before 1 August 2021 and get a 15% discount. Call now at 226 4650 or 615 7185.

TAXI SERVICE Elegant Cabs. 231-1494 / 226-4277, Cell #: 625-6600. 24 hrs.

WANTED For PenPal Purposes. Male seeking Female for relationship. Age: 19 – 30 years old. 644-9410 WhatsApp only.

One (1) Chinese Cook for Aracari Resort – Versailles W.B.D. Attractive Salary. Call: 592-626-5290 One (1) Food & Beverage Manager and One (1) Female Bartender for Aracari Resort Poolside – Versailles W.B.D. Call: 592-626-5290

Mercedes’ boss Toto Wolff went to see the stewards during the red-flag period after Hamilton and Verstappen had collided

F

ormula 1 teams have been warned they could face penalties if they visit race stewards without an invitation.

The warning came after Mercedes and Red Bull bosses went to see the stewards following Sunday's crash between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen.

Race Director Michael Masi has written to all teams, warning them that visiting the stewards is permitted only with prior approval, or an official summons. He warned that transgressions could be considered a breach of F1's rules.

Penalties for breaking of the article Masi mentioned 12.2.1.i of the international sporting code - could range from a reprimand through to a fine, points deduction, or even disqualification.

Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff and Red Bull's Christian Horner went to see the stewards during a red-flag period after the crash at the British Grand Prix.

Wolff had been concerned about the contents of a discussion between Horner and Masi about the crash, in which the Red Bull boss squarely blamed Hamilton.

Wolff asked Masi if he had seen some emails he had sent to him containing diagrams in the stewards' overtaking guidelines that dealt with when a driver has the right to commit to a passing move.

Masi said: "I suggest if you want to, Toto, feel free to go upstairs and see the

stewards directly." Horner also then went to see the stewards.

He said afterwards: "I don't think the stewards should be interfered with.

I went to see the stewards because I heard Toto was up there presenting a case, and you want it to be fair and balanced.

"I don't think it's right that team principals should be able to go and lobby the stewards. They should be locked away, so that they're not influenced. For me, that was unacceptable that he had gone up there."

Hamilton was adjudged to be "predominantly to blame" for the crash on the first lap of the British Grand Prix, and was given a 10-second penalty.

He recovered to win the race and cut Verstappen's championship lead to eight points, from 32.

Verstappen was taken to hospital after an impact measured at 51G, but was released later that evening unharmed.

After the race, Masi said he did not have a problem with teams going to see the stewards.

"If we have an incident, after the race, we invite the teams and the drivers to come up and appear before the stewards," he said.

"We had the case in Monza last year when Lewis went and spoke to the stewards to understand what happened, and have a look at the whole picture. During the suspension, that ability exists, so there's no reason not to." (BBC Sport)

Classified Ads $5+VAT per word

Call: 223-7230-1 Ext 50

2237230-1

(Ext 55)

NOW!

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

23

…as Olympics get underway today

A

s team Guyana sets out today in pursuit of the nation’s second, third, and maybe fourth Olympic medals, there are several bits of historymaking to be relished. In fact, even before they got to Tokyo, the Guyanese athletes were on this path.

Ranging from the youngest Olympian to ever represent Guyana: 15-year-old Aleka Persaud; the first time a pair of siblings will represent Guyana: Jasmine and Aliyah Abrams; the first boxer to qualify for the Games in 25 years: Keevin Allicock; the first table tennis player to make the Games: Chelsea Edghill.

And, of course, the first duo to bear Guyana’s flag: table tennis player Chelsea Edghill and swimmer Andrew Fowler, have been appointed as Guyana’s flag-bearers for the opening ceremony as the Olympics strive for balance gender-wise.

Straying away from the single bearer that was nominated in the past, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has mandated one male and one female “as a symbol of gender parity.”

As such, Guyana’s duo will support the Golden Arrowhead, starting at 7am today, marking the official beginning of the Tokyo 2020 Summer Games.

By the time the opening ceremony gets u n d e r way, Guyana’s entire contingent would have arrived in Tokyo for the highly anticipated 32nd Olympiad.

Later today (Friday, 8pm local time), Edghill will be the first Guyanese athlete in action in the preliminary round of the W o m e n ’ s

Singles. She will battle Fiji’s Sally Yee for a chance in Round 1 of the competition.

The Women’s Singles event is so densely packed that there will be three rounds of play before the Round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals and then final. Edghill, the first table

tennis player to ever represent Guyana at the Games, will be competing at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium.

Keevin Allicock is next up, with his bout against the Dominican Republic’s Alexy de la Cruz. This will be a rematch of sorts for the Guyanese pugilist, after an unfair decision in the 2019

Pan American qualifiers had cost him a quarterfinal bout with de la Cruz.

At that outing, a technical delegate had claimed that Allicock, who was fighting out of the red corner, was clothed in the wrong colour.

(The Guyanese boxer was wearing a redand-black vest).

Given a minute to change clothing, the now 22-year-old was still handed a ‘loss by walkover’.

These two warriors will finally meet in the Round of 32 featherweight (52- 57kg) bout at the Kokugikan Arena.

Next Tuesday, July 27, Andrew Fowler will take to the

pool. Competing at the Tokyo Aquatic Centre, the swimmer will be part of the second heat in the Men’s 100M freestyle at 6.06am local time. This will be Fowler’s second outing at the Olympic Games, having represented Guyana in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil at the 2016 Games.

On Thursday, July 29th, the younger of the Abrams sisters, Jasmine, will come up against some of the fastest women in the world in the Women’s 100m sprint. this is Jasmine’s first outing at the Games, after she worked assiduously

to qualify for the event through ranking points. The sprinter copped a bronze medal at the South American Senior Championships and a gold at Guyana’s Senior Championships last month.

The following day, Guyana’s youngest ever Olympian, 15-year-old Aleka Persaud, will hit the pool for the Women’s 50m freestyle swim. Persaud,

who was not initially slated to represent Guyana, eventually fell into place after FINA mandated that the fastest female Guyanese athlete with the most ranking points should be the one to take up the Universality position.

Persaud, along with Fowler, has been part of a highperformance FINA pre-Olympic Swim camp over the past two weeks.

Later that day, Emanuel Archibald will gear up for the Men’s 100M sprint. Archibald, who is Guyana’s Long Jump record holder (8.12M), had wanted to compete in his pet event at the Games, but unfortunately did not make the cut.

However, the sprinter has remained in good spirits, sharing that it was great to focus on one event for the first time.

The final athlete to compete for Guyana will be

Aliyah Abrams. Her event the Women’s 400m race - will be held on Monday August 2.

This will be Abrams’s second appearance at the Games, having represented Guyana in 2016 at the Rio Games.

Abrams, who qualified for the Games since 2019, recently copped Gold at the National Senior Championships in Guyana.

Aside from the athletes, Guyana’s contingent includes chef de mission Garfield Wiltshire, COVID officer/ Physiotherapist Angelica Holder, Secretary General Deion Nurse, Athlete Representative Aliann Pompey, Swim Coach Shyka Gonzalves, Boxing Coach Sebert Blake, Table Tennis Coach Idi Lewis, and Athletics Coaches Julian Edmonds and Denzel Abrams. (Jemima Holmes)

Is there trouble in the camp?

CWI has not met with Guyana Government without GCB – Grave

By Brandon Corlette

A

letter that was meant to remain confidential has come to the attention of the media. Based on reliable sources, this letter, sent by the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) to Cricket West Indies (CWI), expresses dissatisfaction that CWI is meeting with the Government of Guyana and leaving the GCB out of discussions regarding the hosting of international matches at the National Stadium at Providence.

CWI Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Johnny Grave has shut down the noise while admitting that due to the global pandemic, CWI are required to have more conversations with the Ministry of Sport and the Ministry of Health.

"There is no truth to it.

We have not met with governments without local boards. I think we have been very clear that we want all the stakeholders to support cricket, and that includes the Government, especially in COVID-19 time," Grave disclosed on Tuesday's Mason and Guest radio programme.

Asked if he had received a letter from GCB, Grave replied: "We are not going to any governments in the region without the local boards.

Every meeting we have with governments, there are local representatives on the boards involved. We met with the GCB last night (Monday night) on hosting the Pakistan games. we met with them on Friday, I do not know what else to say."

Grave, a long-serving CWI CEO, has said the CWI is asking the Government to support the hosting of cricket medically and occupationally, and CWI has done this in full

CWI CEO Johnny Grave

and open transparency with the local boards.

"Have we ever met with the Government without the local boards? No, we have not," Grave emphasised.

Why is the GCB concerned?

Based on what Grave disclosed on the Mason and Guest radio programme, and what questions Grave was pressed with by host Andrew Mason, the absolute truth was not evident.

This daily publication has reliably been informed that the letter would have prevented the GCB from benefiting financially when international cricket is being played at Providence.

Customary, the GCB would benefit from ticket sales and hospitality of matches being played at Providence, but based on the facts of the letter that was meant to remain confidential, GCB would not benefit from any of the proceeds.

West Indies and Pakistan will play the first two T20 Internationals in Bridgetown, Barbados on July 27 and July 28. The two teams will then travel to Guyana and play the final three T20I matches at Providence on July 31, August 1, and August 3. It is

yet to be confirmed whether fully vaccinated fans would be allowed at Providence.

BCA caught and bowled?

The Barbados Cricket Association (BCA) was left out of discussions with CWI relative to hosting Australia.

In an article written by the Barbados Today on July 16, the BCA described the acts of CWI as insulting and disrespectful.

BCA had confirmed in a press release that no spectators would be allowed into Kensington Oval for the three One-Day International matches that started on Tuesday, July 20.

The release included: “It says that there is a disconnect between Cricket West Indies and the Barbados Cricket Association, there is a disconnect. It is insulting. You cannot come into a place and step over the local (governing body).

“What I find disrespectful is that Cricket West Indies would find it possible to negotiate with the Government of Barbados without the involvement of the local organisation,” a highly reliable and well-placed source had told Barbados Today on strict condition of anonymity.

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021

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

Page 23

…as Olympics get underway today

Aliyah Abrams Aleka Persaud Chelsea Edghill

Andrew Fowler

Jasmine Abrams Emanuel Archibald

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