Guyana Times - Friday, May 6, 2022

$130M well station at Providence to become operational by end of May – to benefit over 7000 households

P15 Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana Issue No. 5000

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THE BEACON OF TRUTH FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022

Infrastructure, energy among topics for discussion as Brazil’s President visits Guyana today – 2 Heads of State to sign bilateral agreement See story on page 2

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EBD man killed in Windsor P15 Forest accident

Hunter found P15 dead in Essequibo with gunshot wounds

3 busted with ganja as CANU tackles micro-trafficking in Lethem P8

Members of the Dharmic Nritya Sangh performing at Sanskriti organised by the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha to observe the 184th anniversary of the arrival of Indians to Guyana. The event was held at the India Monument, Palmyra, Berbice on Thursday

MoU inked for establishment of US$20M barium manufacturing facility in Guyana Page 3

– as PSC, US Bilateral Chamber sign pact to promote trade and investment

Boom in construction India proposes to train to take up jobs in sector, increased Guyanese booming oil & gas sector investments result from ease of doing business – Finance Minister – 2 lifts of Guyana’s crude already bought by Indian companies Page 7

Page 9

Stop using P17 social media influencers in place of Journalists – GPA to politicians Above-normal rainfall, flash P16 floods predicted for May-July – Hydromet Office Armed bandits rob La Grange family P10

2 NEWS

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Infrastructure, energy among topics for discussion as Brazil’s President visits Guyana today – 2 Heads of State to sign bilateral agreement

G

uyana and Brazil are expected to hold detailed discussions on infrastructure and energy, among other areas of bilateral interest during a one-day State visit by President Jair Bolsonaro to Guyana today.

This visit by President Bolsonaro comes just over three months after he was forced to cancel his visit to Georgetown following the death of his mother on January 21. At the time, planned talks on advancing

infrastructure and an energy corridor between Guyana and Brazil had to be put off.

However, during today’s visit, President Dr Irfaan Ali and the visiting Head of State will discuss a range of issues of bilateral interest, as well as developments at the regional and global levels.

The two countries share a broad bilateral agenda, covering issues such as infrastructure development, energy cooperation, trade and investment, health, agricul-

ture, and defence and security cooperation, and these will be among the issues to be addressed by the two leaders.

In addition, Presidents Ali and Bolsonaro are expected to sign an agreement at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) after which they are slated to make remarks to the media and other stakeholders.

Guyana and Brazil established diplomatic relations in August of 1968 and they enjoy strong ties of friendship President Dr Irfaan Ali greeting his Brazilian counterpart, President Jair Bolsonaro in Suriname back in January. Also in photo is Surinamese President Chandrikapersad Santokhi

and cooperation.

Back in January, Presidents Ali and Bolsonaro had travelled to Suriname to have trilateral discussions with President Chandrikapersad Santokhi in Paramaribo.

The three neighbouring leaders met for a working lunch on January 20 during which they discussed enhancing cooperation in a number of areas, including infrastructure, trade, and energy.

President Ali had returned to Guyana later that evening to prepare for the official one-day visit of his Brazilian counterpart the following morning to have further bilateral talks.

The agenda, at the time, for that engagement between the two South American leaders had included improving economic relations, energy and food security, telecommunications, agriculture, infrastructure integration and the development of a deep-water harbour in Guyana.

It was noted that since Guyana offers the shortest and quickest access to the Atlantic for significant parts of northern Brazil, a road connection linked to the deep-water port could also serve the interest of both countries.

Days prior to the Suriname visit, the two Heads of State spoke via a teleconference about enhancing the partial scope agreement between Guyana and Brazil with the hope of bolstering trade. They also discussed the agenda for the high-level visit by President Bolsonaro.

During that conversation, President Ali indicated to his Brazilian counterpart that Guyana wanted to have a very strong strategic partnership with the Portuguesespeaking nation.

“We have a number of important issues and opportunities for both Guyana and Brazil that I wanted to highlight even before our meeting, so our technical teams can start some work,” President Ali said in a missive from his Press and Publicity Unit.

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NEWS

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FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

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

Friday, May 6 – 04:00h-05:30h and 10:00h-11:00h and Saturday, May 7 – 04:00h-05:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

MoU inked for establishment of US$20M barium manufacturing facility in Guyana

– as PSC, US Bilateral Chamber sign pact to promote trade and investment

Friday, May 6 – 06:45h-08:15h and Saturday, May 7 – 07:30h-09:00h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Heavy to light rain showers with instances of thunder are expected during the day and into the night. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Northerly to East North-Easterly between 2.23 metres and 4.47 metres.

High Tide: 07:23h and 19:59h reaching maximum heights of 2.40 metres and 2.20 metres.

Low Tide: 13:30h reaching a minimum height of 0.84 metre.

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Guyana’s Private Sector Commission and Bilateral Chamber of Commerce inked the MoU to promote trade and investment

A

Guyanese company will be partnering with a United States industrial processing firm to establish a barium manufacturing facility here in Guyana to supply the local oil and gas industry.

Ithaca Energy Partners Inc (IEP), an indigenous Guyanese company and member of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), on Tuesday, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Texas-based Excalibar Minerals LLC. The signing, which took place at the just-concluded International Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) hosted in Houston, Texas, will see Excalibur Minerals, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Newpark Resources, coming to Guyana.

According to a statement from GCCI, the two firms will establish a joint venture which will see more than US$20 million being invested into the establishment of a barium manufacturing facility here.

Barium compounds are used by the oil and gas industry to make drilling mud, and the mineral is often used for spark-plug electrodes and in vacuum tubes as a drying and oxygen-removing agent, as well as fluorescent lamps.

It is expected that the local facility will supply Guyana’s oil and gas industry with barite – the primary, naturally-occurring, barium-based mineral, which is an industrial commodity that is used primarily in the drilling of oil and gas wells.

Barite increases the hydrostatic pressure of the drilling mud allowing it to compensate for high-pressure zones experienced during drilling. The softness of the mineral also prevents it from damaging drilling tools during drilling and enables it to serve as a lubricant.

IEP Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Linden Edmondson explained that the joint venture would not only transfer barium manufacturing technology to Guyana but also create employment for more than 50 local persons and provide training for several Guyanese.

Excalibar Minerals LLC is the largest manufacturer/ miller of ground barium sulphate and calcium carbonate mineral products in North

America.

This is just one of several agreements signed between Guyanese companies and overseas players at the OTC, which was held from May 1 to May 5.

Only on Wednesday, the Private Sector Commission (PSC) and the US Bilateral Chamber of Commerce pledged to leverage their combined resources to strengthen economic relations between Guyana and the US. The two parties signed an MoU which promotes trade and investment across sectors, including infrastructure, health care, industry and education. Signing on behalf of the PSC was its Chairman, Paul Cheong while CEO of the Bilateral Chamber, Aida Araissi signed for her organisation.

The simple signing ceremony was witnessed by Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat; GOInvest CEO, Dr Peter Ramsaroop; US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch; ExxonMobil Guyana President Alistair Routledge, and Vice President responsible for Global Frontier

Representatives from Ithaca Energy Partners Inc (IEP) and Excalibar Minerals LLC signing the MoU to establish a barium manufacturing facility in Guyana as officials look on

Exploration at ExxonMobil Upstream Business Development in Houston, Dr John Ardill. Others present included executives from leading energy, real estate, and technology companies.

According to a statement from the PSC, this MoU is the fruit of the Bilateral Chamber’s first Trade Mission to Guyana in March 2022. The Chamber and the PSC will work together in the coming months to organise more trade missions that bring together businesses from the US and Guyana.

Following the signing on Wednesday, the PSC Chairman said, “Today is a historic day. We will work on building a partnership that members of both sides will be proud of. This is just the beginning”.

Meanwhile, Araissi added, “We are proud to be ranked as a top-producing contractor for the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA). Our Bilateral Chamber and USTDA programmes represent over US$100 billion of exported US goods, services, and advanced technologies and

we’re looking forward to bringing that kind of expertise to Guyana, to grow the local content.”

The Bilateral Chamber, located in Houston, Texas, has an expansive network of more than 36,000 subscribers, representing small to large enterprises. The Chamber is a trusted partner to the USTDA, the US Departments of Commerce, State, and Energy, as well as trade development agencies in key markets around the globe.

Meanwhile, these two agreements followed the signing of another MoU on Monday to establish a mechanism between the Government of Guyana and the Houston Airport System (HAS) to strengthen collaboration and promote the expansion of a safe, modern, and efficient airport system.

During brief remarks, both Minister Bharrat and Ambassador Lynch applauded this partnership which paves the way for the exchange of expertise in the areas of operation, economic development, and advancement of both airports.

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guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022

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

Empowering young mothers

A

s this year’s celebration of Mother’s Day draws nearer, we take a look back at our take on how we may alleviate teenage pregnancy, one of the major issues concerning motherhood: The world has changed and the social dynamics have degraded alarmingly, with the juvenile population paying a heavy price. Fallout of the low threshold of the moral levels of current day society includes the high statistics on incidence of teenage pregnancy.

Often, when a school-aged girl falls prey to the raging libido of adolescence and becomes pregnant as a result, both expectant mother and child are shunned by peers, school authorities, society in general, and sometimes even their own families; and this consequently spells poverty and the direst future for mother and child. However, awareness of the plight of these misled young girls is gaining momentum, and constructs are being put in place to facilitate their empowerment, to enable a good life and a future of promise for mother and child, with education being the key component.

Some years ago, the then PPP/C Administration initiated a programme whereby pregnant teenage girls were re-integrated into the school system. The Government’s project was supported by the United States Embassy, which donated a quantity of baby and hygiene kits to 20 teenage mothers who had been allowed and facilitated by the Ministry of Education to continue their academic studies. The assistance — which included diapers, blankets, bonnets, socks, soaps and towels — was in support of the Ministry of Education’s programme to afford school-aged victims of teenage pregnancy an opportunity to continue their secondary education.

The students were placed at the schools they last attended.

However, if they indicated discomfort, they were placed at another school of their choice.

Those above 16 who did not desire to continue academic studies were enrolled at the Adult Education Association, the Carnegie School of Home Economics, or the Sophia Training Centre.

Young expectant mothers came to the attention of the Schools’ Welfare Department following the officers of that department undertaking outreach visits to health clinics, schools and communities.

Girls were interviewed to assess their education level as well as to ascertain what plans they had for their future as parents.

Parents of the young mothers were also interviewed in an effort to make the initiative a holistic rehabilitative effort, with educational sessions done with the teenage expectant mothers with the focus on empowering them to have a future that provided financial security for both mother and child.

These sessions covered several areas, including life skills, building self-esteem, literacy and numeracy, parenting and child care, skills training, stress and anger management, and basic Information Technology.

The objective of the programme was to identify the needs of the targeted individuals; collect, collate and disseminate information on their experiences; empower them to perform their roles as parents; and provide services to enhance and support their well-being.

These efforts were aimed at helping the young mothers to adjust to their new roles as parents.

A representative of the Ministry of Education said the Government had recognised that drastic changes in people’s lifestyles over the past three decades precipitated such occurrences in the social dynamics, and the programme to re-integrate teenage mothers in schools was one of the measures it had taken to ensure a progressive society for the vulnerable.

The Ministry official averred that education is a basic human right, and a child who had become pregnant at 14 should not lose that right.

Head teachers were encouraged to develop a sense of appreciation for teenage parents, as some are victims of broken homes and various other unfortunate circumstances.

According to the Ministry official, the findings of research done countrywide on the subject revealed that teen mothers have an interest in continuing their educational, but need various forms of intervention and support to succeed in this area. These include an education environment that respects and understands their situation.

It is wise to introduce counselling sessions into the school system to prevent such occurrences as teenage pregnancy, because the cost in dislocated lives of families and the young mothers themselves is too high.

President Dr Irfaan Ali on Wednesday evening hosted a cocktail reception for media workers in observance of World Press Freedom Day at Castellani House. In the photo are the Head of State and Guyana Chronicle’s Indrawattie Natram; Guyana Times’ Assistant Editor, Vahnu Manikchand; Sport Editor of Newsroom, Avenash Ramzan; Editor of Times Media Group, Bhisham Mohamed; Senior Political Correspondent at Stabroek News, Marcelle Fowler; News Anchor at National Communications Network, Samuel Suknandan and Senior Reporter at Stabroek News, David Papanah

Enabling our forests to help us overcome multiple crises

By QU Dongyu, Director General, FAO

T

he world faces huge challenges in overcoming the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, food insecurity, the war in Ukraine, the accelerating climate crisis, and biodiversity loss. In response to these multiple global threats, we need solutions at scale that are cost-effective and equitable, and that can be implemented rapidly.

Forests and trees offer such solutions, and can help us recover, if we better recognise their value and crucial role in building resilient and sustainable economies.

The latest report on the State of the World’s Forests, from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, to be presented at the XV World Forestry Congress under the theme “Building a Green, Healthy and Resilient Future with Forests”, clearly shows three ways in which we can step up action if we want to unlock the potential of forests: Halting deforestation and maintaining forests could avoid significant greenhouse gas emissions – about 14 percent of the reduction needed up to 2030 to keep planetary warming below 1.5ºC. It could also safeguard more than half the Earth’s terrestrial biodiversity, which is a key provider of ecosystem services for sustainable agriculture.

Forests are the largest terrestrial pool of carbon and of biodiversity, yet they are shrinking.

Restoring degraded lands and expanding agroforestry. 1.5 billion hectares of degraded land – an area twice the size of Australia – would benefit from restoration, and increasing tree cover could boost agricultural productivity on another 1 billion hectares.

Restoring degraded land through afforestation and reforestation could cost-effectively remove CO2 from the atmosphere equivalent to eliminating 195-325 million gasoline-powered passenger cars from the road each year for 30 years.

Sustainably using existing forests,

and building green value chains would help meet future demand for more renewable materials. Considering that the global consumption of all natural resources is set to more than double from 92 billion tonnes in 2017 to 190 billion tonnes in 2060, using sustainable wood in construction, for example, can store carbon and address the climate crisis, while increasing resilience and sustainability.

There will be no healthy economy on an unhealthy planet. Environmental deterioration is contributing to climate change, biodiversity loss, and the emergence of new diseases. Despite the crucial role forests and trees can play in addressing these crises, they are consistently undervalued in our economic systems. As a result, forests are given neither the attention nor the investment needed for their meaningful conservation and sustainable management.

We must substantially increase investment in these three interlinked forest-based pathways. There are a number of ways to do this: It is essential to look at how to repurpose existing incentives for agricultural producers – worth about US$540 billion per year - to help make the structures governing how our food is produced, distributed and consumed more sustainable.

More than a quarter of the world’s population relies on wood to cook their food, and even more use non-wood forest products for food, feed and medicines. Investments in forestry and agroforestry would build more diversified and resilient local economies.

New investment must also be scaled up in areas such as climate finance, green recovery programmes, and private investment support.

Getting finance to small-scale producers is essential. We cannot rely on a “trickle down” effect. Instead, we need new solutions that meet their needs and reduce inequalities.

We will achieve results only if we stop working in silos. Agrifood systems’ transformation and forest protection, restoration and sustainable manage-

ment must go hand in hand.

Today’s environmental, health and social crises call for urgent action for a sustainable recovery. Promoting a model wherein forests and agriculture mutually support each other requires increased political, financial and technical investment.

More than 20 developing countries have already shown that it is possible.

Recent data confirms that deforestation has been successfully reduced in South America and Asia.

Among the means for achieving this are national policies that promote sustainable local markets; a green and circular economy; repurposed agricultural subsidies; setting clear national targets for sustainable agricultural development; and forest protection and sustainable use, and secure land tenure and rights for farmers in agroforestry landscapes to use forests and trees.

FAO is dedicated to working towards more efficient, more inclusive, more resilient and more sustainable agrifood systems, and promotes the contribution of forests to this process through conservation, restoration and sustainable use.

But we must do more to empower rural farmers, smallholders, women and youth, Indigenous Peoples and local communities. They are the guardians of almost half of the world’s forests and farmlands.

This week, the World Forestry Congress, taking place in Seoul, Republic of Korea, brings together representatives from five continents, and offers a unique opportunity to focus on impactful solutions towards building a green, healthy and resilient future with forests, and achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Scaling up solutions based on forests and trees can unlock their potential to help mitigate the economic disruptions and food insecurity affecting the most vulnerable. And it would contribute to realising our core objectives of better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life for all, leaving no one behind.

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022

5

News

Overseas-based Guyanese donates CCTV cameras to Haslington

O

The Depot to collect Immigrants by

Guyana Indian Ancestry Association (GIAA)

A

fter the immigrants from North India were recruited by “Arkatias” and registered they were transported by railway and housed in large “logie-like structures called “Depots” in Calcutta. They were medically examined and the sick winnowed out.

verseas-based Guyanese Gary Williams donated two high-end Closed-Circuit TV (CCTV) cameras to the community of Haslington on the East Coast of Demerara.

The cameras were installed by crew members of the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) at Haslington New Scheme on Wednesday.

Police Commander for Regional Division 4C, Senior Superintendent Khali Pareshram; Officer-InCharge of #1 sub-division, Assistant Superintendent M Ally; Corporal Robin and Constable Rigby of the Community Relations Office, along with Coretta De Jesus – the Haslington-Golden Grove Neighbourhood Democratic

Police Commander for Regional Division 4C, Senior Superintendent Khali Pareshram; Officer-In-Charge of #1 subdivision, Assistant Superintendent M Ally; Corporal Robin and Constable Rigby of the Community Relations Office, along with Haslington-Golden Grove NDC Chairwoman Coretta De Jesus looking on as the CCTV cameras are installed

Council (NDC) Chairwoman, formally received the two cam-

eras on behalf of the residents and they all oversaw their installation at the entrance of

the New Haslington Scheme.

Commander Pareshram urged stakeholders and businesses to invest in CCTV cameras within their communities, homes, and businesses.

He expressed gratitude to Williams for his kind and timely gesture and reassured him that the CCTV cameras would benefit the community.

He stressed that they would be monitored for both detection and prevention of crime.

Pareshram noted that the use of more technology throughout his division will create a safer and more secure environment for residents. The live feed from the CCTV cameras will be viewed by ranks at the Divisional Headquarters.

Georgetown was once a Garden City

Prospective immigrants being fed at a depot

Each colony receiving immigrants had their own Depot but they were all near each other at Garden Reach in Calcutta near the Hooghly River. They were very large and could accommodate hundreds of immigrants.

Immigrants from South Indian were similarly housed in depots in Madras, 890 nautical miles south. Frequently, ships would depart Calcutta, like the last ship SS Ganges did, and pick up additional immigrants at Madras before proceeding to Guyana and other colonies.

At the depots, the “seasoning” process for the immigrants began as caste observances were ignored in serving food to all from one pot. Immigrants were reexamined for diseases, washed and prison-like clothes of a coarse cotton material were provided, along with a cap for men.

Waiting to board at the depot

In the depots, single men and women made alliances and were shipped as “married”. The period of waiting at the depots for the monsoon season to pass and for ships to be filled could last for days to months. The desired shipping season was in the winter months of November through March.

Before boarding women received three and later four saries (several metres of fabric), a cotton and a woollen petticoat, later one woollen petticoat and a kurta, later replaced by a gurnsey (woollen sweater) or banian (jack­ et). All men received three dhoties, a jacket, trousers, cap, woollen trousers, a warm cap and a chapkan (jacket), later replaced by a gurnsey or banian.

They were also given a blanket, a tin utensil for eating and a cup to be shared for drinking water. They were given a bag to take along any property of their own like books or seeds.

DID YOU KNOW? At the depots, while there were attempts to assign cooking to high caste individuals. But very quickly this system broke down and all had to be served to eat with other castes.

The basic food for all immigrants to all countries were daal, rice, sometimes roti/chappatis, aloo/ potatoes, and sometimes mutton.

Live sheep were taken along the trips.

Dear Editor, I remember the days when Georgetown was proudly referred to as the GARDEN CITY. Regretfully, sadly and unfortunately, today, and for the past thirty or so years, it has descended into being the GARBAGE CITY, and is being referred to as such by locals, visitors and foreigners.

I recently had to go to someone at 322 New Market Street, North Cummingsburg Georgetown - located, incidentally, immediately opposite the GEORGETOWN PUBLIC HOSPITAL, and I was appalled at the garbage and stench emanating from the vacant lot adjacent to the building I had to visit. It is obviously a dumping ground for garbage from the various stands that now form part of the landscape of not only this part of Georgetown, but most of the area, where there are opportunities to make a “quick dollar” regardless, and with absolutely no consideration for the health and safety of persons who HAVE to frequent those areas.

There is a proliferation of what I consider to be both permanent and “makeshift” structures selling from food to items needed by patients in the hospital, and I dare say anything in between.

I saw, a few weeks ago, very high-level publicity of a “clean-up campaign” led by no other than His Excellency the President in the City of Georgetown, and this was followed by other clean-up campaigns spearheaded by high-level functionaries in the Government in other areas of Guyana.

Unfortunately, the “other side” of the political scenario felt it convenient to boycott that commendable effort and, what some considered was out of shame, did their own semi-cleanup soon after.

Both campaigns, according to popular opinion, went “to waste”, with absolutely no pun intended.

Are the City Council and the Pandit Mayor (and their predecessors, including the ELDER Hamilton Green, under whose Mayorship this deterioration started) unaware

of what Georgetown has become? Are these persons not ashamed to know that they are presiding over a city that is STINKING, and is willingly a prime participant for an epidemic waiting to happen?

As I’ve said and written before, I am of the opinion that the City Council as presently constituted has proven itself to be incapable of solving not only this problem, but other equally important matters of the City, and I call upon the Government to seriously consider the appointment of an Interim Management Council, as was

done in the past, to properly manage the city.

In the interim, I hope that this letter “catches the eye” of someone in authority, so that the garbage dump opposite the Georgetown Public Hospital can immediately be relocated to its proper place, in the interest of those who live and frequent that area.

It would be extremely easy to find and prosecute dumping violators in this and other areas, but ONLY if there is the will to do so.

Regards, Harry N Nawbatt

Friday, May 6, 2022

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FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022

Page

Foundation ◄

I

n this fun and easy science experiment, we’re going to show you how to use a balloon to power a lightbulb.

Materials: Balloon Compact fluorescent (CFL) lightbulb A dark room

lamp

Instructions: Blow up the balloon and tie off the end.

Move into the darkened space.

Wait a few minutes for your

CONTINUED FROM THURSDAY

SEBASTIAN His word is more than the miraculous harp; he hath raised the wall and houses too.

ANTONIO What impossible matter will he make easy next?

SEBASTIAN I think he will carry this island home in his pocket and give it his son for an apple.

ANTONIO And, sowing the kernels of it in the sea, bring forth more islands.

GONZALO Ay. ANTONIO Why, in good time.

GONZALO Sir, we were talking that our garments seem now as fresh as when we were at Tunis at the marriage of your daughter, who is now queen.

ANTONIO And the rarest that e'er came there.

SEBASTIAN Bate, I beseech you, widow Dido.

ANTONIO O, widow Dido! ay, widow Dido.

GONZALO Is not, sir, my doublet as fresh as the first day I wore it? I mean, in a sort.

ANTONIO That sort was well fished for.

GONZALO When I wore it at your daughter's marriage?

ALONSO You cram these words into mine ears against The stomach of my

eyes to adjust.

Rub the balloon against your hair numerous times.

Hold the balloon by the tied end with one hand so that the top of the balloon dangles toward the floor.

With your other hand, hold the CFL lightbulb near the balloon, but do not move the lightbulb or touch the balloon.

Now move the balloon back and forth over the bulb, still not touching it, and observe what happens.

sense. Would I had never Married my daughter there! for, coming thence, My son is lost and, in my rate, she too, Who is so far from Italy removed I ne'er again shall see her. O thou mine heir Of Naples and of Milan, what strange fish Hath made his meal on thee?

FRANCISCO Sir, he may live: I saw him beat the surges under him, And ride upon their backs; he trod the water, Whose enmity he flung aside, and breasted The surge most swoln that met him; his bold head 'Bove the contentious waves he kept, and oar'd Himself with his good arms in lusty stroke To the shore, that o'er his wave-worn basis bow'd, As stooping to relieve him: I not doubt He came alive to land.

ALONSO No, no, he's gone.

SEBASTIAN Sir, you may thank yourself for this great loss, That would not bless our Europe with your daughter, But rather lose her to an African; Where she at least is banish'd from your eye, Who hath cause to wet the grief on't.

ALONSO Prithee, peace.

SEBASTIAN You were kneel'd to and importuned otherwise By all of us, and the fair soul herself Weigh'd between

How it works: Your hair imparted electrical charges called static electricity onto the balloon when rubbed against your hair. The CFL bulb also contains electrical charges and these are attracted to the electrical charges on the balloon. As you move the balloon, the electrical charges in the lightbulb move to try and connect with the electrical charges on the balloon. When these electrical charges move around in the bulb, they bump into chemicals in the lightbulb and create light.

loathness and obedience, at Which end o' the beam should bow.

We have lost your son, I fear, for ever: Milan and Naples have More widows in them of this business' making Than we bring men to comfort them: The fault's your own.

ALONSO So is the dear'st o' the loss.

GONZALO My lord Sebastian, The truth you speak doth lack some gentleness And time to speak it in: you rub the sore, When you should bring the plaster.

SEBASTIAN Very well.

ANTONIO And most chirurgeonly.

GONZALO It is foul weather in us all, good sir, When you are cloudy.

SEBASTIAN Foul weather?

ANTONIO Very foul.

GONZALO Had I plantation of this isle, my lord,-ANTONIO He'ld sow't with nettle-seed.

SEBASTIAN Or docks, or mallows.

GONZALO And were the king on't, what would I do?

SEBASTIAN 'Scape being drunk for want of wine.

GONZALO I' the commonwealth I would by contraries Execute all things; for no kind of traffic

Make this a science project: Try this easy balloon experiment with a medical glove.

Does adding salt to the balloon have any noticeable effect on the experiment? Try the hair of different friends. Try rubbing the balloon on wool. Try different types of bulbs. Try different sized balloons. (sciencefun.org)

“Teaching that impacts is not head to head, but heart to heart” — Howard G Hendricks

Would I admit; no name of magistrate; Letters should not be known; riches, poverty, And use of service, none; contract, succession, Bourn, bound of land, tilth, vineyard, none; No use of metal, corn, or wine, or oil; No occupation; all men idle, all; And women too, but innocent and pure; No sovereignty;-SEBASTIAN Yet he would be king on't.

ANTONIO The latter end of his commonwealth forgets the beginning.

GONZALO All things in common nature should produce Without sweat or endeavour: treason, felony, Sword, pike, knife, gun, or need of any engine, Would I not have; but nature should bring forth, Of its own kind, all foison, all abundance, To feed my innocent people.

SEBASTIAN No marrying 'mong his subjects?

ANTONIO None, man; all idle: whores and knaves.

GONZALO I would with such perfection govern, sir, To excel the golden age.

SEBASTIAN God save his majesty!

ANTONIO Long live Gonzalo!

GONZALO And,--do you mark me, sir?

ALONSO Prithee, no more: thou

dost talk nothing to me.

GONZALO I do well believe your highness; and did it to minister occasion to these gentlemen, who are of such sensible and nimble lungs that they always use to laugh at nothing.

ANTONIO 'Twas you we laughed at.

GONZALO Who in this kind of merry fooling am nothing to you: so you may continue and laugh at nothing still.

ANTONIO What a blow was there given!

SEBASTIAN An it had not fallen flat-long.

GONZALO You are gentlemen of brave metal; you would lift the moon out of her sphere, if she would continue in it five weeks without changing.

Enter ARIEL, invisible, playing solemn music SEBASTIAN We would so, and then go a bat-fowling.

ANTONIO Nay, good my lord, be not angry.

GONZALO No, I warrant you; I will not adventure my discretion so weakly. Will you laugh me asleep, for I am very heavy?

ANTONIO Go sleep, and hear us.

All sleep except ALONSO, SEBASTIAN, and ANTONIO

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

7

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Boom in construction sector, increased investments result from ease of doing business – Finance Minister

Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh

T

he increased activity in the construction sector and investment expansion can be traced to the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government’s efforts to improve the ease of doing business since it took office.

This is according to Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh, who, in an exclusive interview with Guyana Times, spoke of the strides the Government has made

towards improving the ease of doing business.

“When we came into Government, there were a number of companies who had expansion plans that were stymied, frustrated, because of the bureaucracy and bureaucratic inertia: agencies failing to process applications for permits, failing to approve or respond to various other applications.

“As soon as we came into Government, this was

a priority: to unblock a lot of those stumbling blocks that were erected to frustrate and stymie business opportunity. This is why you’ve seen the tremendous explosion of construction, investment activity, expansion, etc,” Dr Singh added.

He made it clear, however, that much remains to be done to further improve the ease of doing business. This is where work to develop two single window systems comes in – one to deal with construction permits and one to deal with trade.

“We’re also committed to addressing all of the other systemic issues as it relates to the ease of doing business. We want to get to the point where it’s much easier for people to apply for permits, obtain permits, apply for licences, and obtain them where they’re needed,” Minister Singh said.

“This is why you would have heard me speak of the two major single window projects that we’re working on. The single window for trade transactions is going to make it much easier

for businesses to do trade transactions. And the single window for construction permits, which is also going to make it easier for businesses and households to do construction transactions.”

In its last report, the World Bank ranked Guyana 134 out of 190 countries in its Doing Business Report for 2020 as it relates to the ease of doing business.

Guyana’s overall score on the report was 55.5, down from 55.6 in the previous report.

During a recent in-person and virtual seminar hosted by the Natural Resources Ministry in collaboration with the Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ministry, under the theme “Opportunities for the Diaspora in Guyana’s New Economy”, Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud had fielded questions on doing business in Guyana.

During the event, members of the Diaspora were told of the abundance of opportunities available here that they could tap into.

But one participant who has partnered with a member of the Guyanese Diaspora to set up a business here pointed out that one of the major challenges for investors was the tedious task of doing business here.

In response, Guyana’s Foreign Secretary had posited that Government has been working on making Government agencies more investor-friendly as well as improving the way business is done in the country.

Speaking to the issues raised about the local banking system, Persaud noted that Government has no control over that, since the banking procedures were in compliance with the vari-

ous anti-money laundering legislation and practices.

In fact, he stated that even Guyanese are frustrated with the stringent banking system practices in place.

Moreover, the Foreign Secretary had outlined that oftentimes people did not understand the systems in Guyana, and were not even aware that many Government services, as well as information, have been moved online.

Additionally, it was pointed out that there were companies here, such as the Guyana Logistics & Support Services (GLASS), that handle all domestic procedures for investors wanting to set up businesses here.

8 NEWS

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

3 busted with ganja as CANU tackles micro-trafficking in Lethem

A

s part of efforts to clamp down on micro-narcotics trafficking in Lethem, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Essequibo) ranks of the Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) on Tuesday arrested three males after they were caught with small amounts of marijuana.

The interception occurred at Tabatinga, Central Rupununi in Lethem.

CANU said its officers conducted a narcotics operation in Tabatinga, which led to the discovery of a quantity of suspected cannabis.

This resulted in the arrest of three individuals: 21-yearold Jason Clement and 24-year-old Leylon Winter,

both of Tabatinga Central Rupununi; and 37-yearold Neil Ross of Bachelors Adventure, East Coast Demerara.

The suspects were escorted to the Lethem Police Station, along with the narcotics, contained in 31 small Ziplock bags. The substance was tested positive for cannabis, and weighed a total of 48 grammes.

Investigations are ongoing in relation to this interception.

According to CANU, these operations are part of the agency’s strategy to combat micro-trafficking within various communities, including schools, as recently reported in the press.

In fact, following reports of students selling narcotics in schools in Region Nine, CANU officers were able to apprehend several individuals suspected to be facilitators of these illegal activities.

Three suspects were arrested in Tabatinga and were found in possession of parcels of cannabis amounting to 260 grammes. They have been identified as Mark Opie, 21; John Lee Edmond, 23; and Okemmey Jervis, 23, all of Tabatinga, Central Rupununi.

On Tuesday, Region Nine Commander, Superintendent Raphael Rose, disclosed that school-aged children are being engaged in the sale of illicit drugs. This has prompted

swift action by Police officers in the division, which has led to the arrest of the adults suspected of giving the minors the narcotics to sell.

Commander Rose said ranks were informed by a teacher in Karasabai District of a teen boy being accosted with drugs while at school.

The teenager indicated that an adult was giving him the narcotics to sell, and the Police were able to arrest the adult.

There was a similar case in the Annai District, and the Police have also received information about persons selling drugs at the Annai Secondary School.

Head of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), James Singh, recently revealed that the law enforcement agency would be collaborating with the Education Ministry and other stakeholders to develop a programme that would see officials visiting schools to educate children on the ills of using drugs.

“CANU continues to thank the public for supporting our operations within the various communities,” the agency has said.

APNU/AFC MP wins defamation lawsuit against State newspaper

A

cting Chief Justice Roxane George, SC, has found that A Partnership for National Unity-Alliance for Change (APNU-AFC) Parliamentarian Jermaine Figueira was defamed by an article published by the state-owned Guyana Chronicle, his lawyer said in a statement on Wednesday.

In the lawsuit filed against the newspaper’s Editor-inChief Tajeram Mohabir, Figueira argued that, on January 24, 2021, the newspaper published libellous statements about him, made

by Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton in an article headed “Fraud and Criminality”.

Figueira’s lawyer Roysdale Forde said the newspaper reported that his client had received $5.8M in funds from the Sustainable Livelihood and Entrepreneurial Development (SLED) Programme to be used by himself and/or by a cooperative society of which he was a member to conduct pig-rearing activities. But according to Forde, the newspaper reported that his client did not build the pens or rear pigs, and had therefore misappropriated the funds.

In delivering her ruling, Forde said, the Chief Justice found that the article had a “damning headline”, and expressed the view that the

newspaper acted recklessly in publishing the article in light of denial by his client. Forde added that the Chief Justice found that the words “fraud and criminality” used in the article do not conjure a favourable image, and were understood to mean that Figueira is a fraudster.

According to the Senior Counsel, Justice George rejected arguments by the Guyana Chronicle lawyer Siand Dhurjon that the newspaper had a duty to publish statements made by a Member of Parliament (MP) about an elected official.

Considering the above, Forde said, Justice George

APNU/AFC parliamentarian Jermaine Figueira

held that the article was not published in “good faith”, and that the reliance by the newspaper on the defence of fair comment was misconceived.

A hearing to assess damages will be held soon.

The young politician had always denied the Minister’s utterances, stating that they were intended to damage his reputation and score cheap political points. In a statement debunking Minister Hamilton’s statement, Figueira had said: “I will take this opportunity to publicly state and make it absolutely clear that I, Jermaine Figueira, a Member of Parliament for the Region Ten, has never received any refund of money from Sustainable Livelihood and Entrepreneurial Development (SLED) Programme in 2019 or any other year in that regard.”

Shortly after the article was carried by the Guyana Chronicle, Guyana Times was informed that it was the politician’s twin brother, Jemaine Figueira, who had collected the monies.

Connectivity…

T

…to southern neighbour oday Brazilian President Bolsonaro’s gonna be dropping by for a short visit, to make up for the one he’d cancelled when his mom passed in late January.

Your Eyewitness respects a man who respects his mother.

He doesn’t go in for this “nation Uber alles” when it comes to filial duty - especially to mothers. Anyhow, when the first visit was in the offing, a group of the woke chatterati - who always know what’s best for the rest of Guyana fired one of their patented “letter-in-the-press” fusillades against the visit!! They screamed that the man was so right-wing and reactionary he might just infect our oh-somoderate politics!!

Yup…believe it or not, that’s right!! Most of the woke brigade isn’t even in Guyana, but are comfortably ensconced in countries whose leaders are right in synch with Bolsonaro. Yet we don’t see them wiping the dust off their feet from those countries or leaders - but presume to tell us to make the man persona non grata!! Now, let’s get one thing straight with this bunch, in case they crawl out of the rocks they slither under between bouts of fevered letter-writing.

In International Relations, the only test for a patriotic Guyanese is our NATIONAL INTEREST!! To quote something that’s probably too clichéd for these hipsters of international relations, in realpolitik, “there are no permanent enemies or permanent friends - only permanent interests”. But no, these are the very folks who’d have us leave our 11 billion barrels of oil (and counting!) under the ocean for the sake of the rest of humanity! Especially that bunch of humanity that created the very crisis the do-gooders want to avert to live high off the hog, leaving us wallowing in the mud.

With Bolsonaro, his sin was to cut swathes of his Amazonian rainforests, so his country can grow more grain; raise cattle, to export the products to bring in foreign currency, and raise the living standards of their poor. Now, whether or not the strategy works depends on a whole range of factors - but at least he’s trying to better the lot of his people! The other Bolsonaro sin is that “right-wing” tendency to insist that before you distribute wealth, you gotta create it. But that, of course, is heresy to the woke brigade! Never mind the converse - as proven by leaders from Burnham to Lenin - that it never works!!

Anyhow, Brazil is an economic behemoth at our southern border, never mind its present hiccup; so, it’s in our interest - for so many reasons - to cultivate better relations. Just the shipment of industrial goods from Brazil’s landlocked Manaus should keep us going for many moons.

Interest trumps all!!

…to eastern neighbour And just two days ago, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill signed an agreement to conduct feasibility studies with Suriname, to determine financing, traffic flows, and toll and other revenue-generating options for the Corentyne Bridge. Now, while we need Brazil to get us a bridge - and not just the Takutu! - into our continental destiny…a closer relationship with Suriname would give us a bit more heft to fulfill that destiny quicker.

For too long, our commonalities with Suriname were kept shrouded because of our imposed tunnel vision of historic connections to the separate European “mother” countries - Britain and Netherlands. But those commonalities are there, and as we become physically connected through the Bridge; economically connected through petroleum; culturally connected through shared origins, we will increase in strength.

It can’t happen with Brazil; with them, there’s the disequilibrium of size. Suriname would deal with us as equals!!

Who knows…they might even drop their claim to the New River Triangle!! …on the west?

As we proceed on our upward trajectory through connectivity with our neighbours in the east and south, let’s not forget that on our west lies an enemy that must be checkmated.

And this is where a friendly Brazil comes in, as the historic rival to Venezuelan pretenses!!

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

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

NEWS

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FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

India proposes to train Guyanese to take up jobs in booming oil & gas sector – 2 lifts of Guyana’s crude already bought by Indian companies

Workers on an oil rig

T

o develop the skills needed to manage Guyana’s booming oil and gas sector, India has presented a proposal to the Government of Guyana to train executives and those associated with the sector.

All expenses pertaining to the training will be taken care of by the Government of India.

This was echoed by High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr K.J Srinivasa, during an interview with Guyana Times on Wednesday.

Dr Srinivasa explained that this is premised on the fact that India has several multi-national oil companies worth billions of dol-

lars that are involved in upstream, downstream, midstream, and distribution operations. India has, over the years, provided the necessary avenues to train Guyanese in almost every sector.

The Guyana Government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that Guyanese reap the benefits of the oil industry by providing them with the necessary skills and expertise to fill jobs.

In fact, shortly after assuming office in 2020, President Irfaan Ali announced plans to establish a world-class, world-rated national oil and gas train-

ing centre here, to train local and Caribbean workers.

Costing some US$20 million, the training centre will be located at Lusignan, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

Then in September 2021, the Government offered a limited number of scholarships in oil and gas and other areas at the Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen, United Kingdom (UK).

In November 2021, the Government, through the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL), announced that it was offering training programmes offered by 3T EnerMech, a

world-class workforce development company, for technical work in the oil and gas sector. The courses were in the areas of Rigging and Erecting, SMP (Safety Management Pack) Operative and Fabric Maintenance, Coating, and Scaffolding.

The University of Guyana’s (UG) Institute of Energy Diplomacy (IED) recently announced a suite of executive-level professional courses with specialties in energy markets, oil-and-gas value chain, energy transport and shipping, and crude-oil trading.

The Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC), a Private Sector umbrella organisation, commissioned an oil and gas training centre at Middle Street, Georgetown in July of last year.

Speaking at an event last year, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, urged the Private Sector to do its own assessment of the oil and gas industry to provide as much opportunities for locals, noting that a lot of roles in the sector are being taken up by foreigners.

Oil lifts

Meanwhile, this is not the first time the Indian Government has indicated its interest in Guyana’s oil sector. In fact, India had bought its first cargo of light sweet crude from Guyana.

It was reported that the million-barrel cargo of Guyana’s Liza light sweet crude set sail from offshore Guyana on March 2, 2021 on the Marshall Islandsflagged tanker Sea Garnet, bound for India’s Mundra port.

At the time, Dr KJ Srinivasa had stated that this was a commercial transaction between the companies involved, and as such, he was not privy to the details.

However, he believed that the cargo was Hess’s quota that was bought by HMEL from Trafigura.

Reuters reported that Trafigura “declined to comment on commercial matters” and Hess “did not immediately reply to a request for comment”.

Then again in July of the same year, another one million barrels of crude was purchased by Indian Oil Corp (IOC).

The oil, which came

Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr KJ Srinivasa

from the Liza-1 field, sailed on July 4, 2021 on a Greek tanker for India’s Paradip port. India imported a significant portion of its oil from Iran and Venezuela.

However, the sanctions imposed by the United States on these two nations have resulted in a massive reduction in those imports.

According to the High Commissioner, the Indian companies paid US$141 million for the two lifts.

Guyana, with US oil giant ExxonMobil as the operator, began producing oil on December 20, 2019 in the Stabroek Block.

Guyana’s oil revenues are being banked in the New York Federal Reserve Bank, where they are earning interest.

10 NEWS

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Most crimes committed in Reg 2 are done by "outsiders" – Commander P olice Commander of Region Two ( P o m e r o o n S u p e r n a a m ) , S u p e r i n t e n d e n t Shivpersaud Bacchus, has related that most crimes committed in his division are done by people who are not resident in the region.

As such, he said, work is afoot to reduce these cases.

Bacchus has said there is now a greater requirement for collaboration with other stakeholders and the other regions, in order to clamp down on these offenders. So far, he said, Police efforts are producing favourable results, due to the partnerships they have built.

“This is working well.

Recently, we had an alleged robbery, and we would have trailed that individual, and unfortunately, he jumped out of the vehicle… the civilians would have given him a chase… we would have communicated with the inspector at Region Three, and ranks were at the Parika stelling, waiting on the boat to get there”, he said.

The Commander added that, in some cases, some of the preparators would

Superintendent Shivpersaud Bacchus

have to be tracked into the backlands. However, he said his division is equipped to deal with such cases.

“There has been one incident we had, and that led us to Supenaam… there are areas which we can’t touch because of the dense forest and the roadways… but, once it is around the area, yes, we have the resources to deal with it”, he explained.

In an effort to fight the crime scourge in the region, Commander Bacchus said, his aim is to get the youths in the community, along with other residents, involved.

“I believe that, in the region, if we have the youths involved and get them from an early age, we

can build a better relationship within this region…”, he has said.

Just recently, former acting Police Commissioner Nigel Hoppie said there has been a 16 percent decline in serious crimes when compared to the corresponding period last year. He pointed out that 2021 had seen a successful reduction in serious crimes committed, standing at the lowest figure recorded over a 10year period.

Further, he said there has also been a 9.5 percent decrease in road fatalities, with nine fatalities having been recorded from 15 accidents in 2022. This is compared to 21 fatalities from 20 accidents recorded in March 2021.

Armed bandits rob La Grange family

T

wo gunmen staged a daring robbery on a La Grange, West Bank Demerara (WBD) family on Wednesday evening.

Based on reports received, housewife Kumarie Persaud, 40, her son Randy Persaud, 21, and daughter Radiya Persaud, 18, all of Lot 84 Independence Street, La Grange, WBD, were at home at about 19:45h when they came under attack from two males, one of whom was carrying a handgun while the other was carrying an axe.

The Police have said

that the bandits entered the Persauds’ premises and held Kumarie’s husband Wazir Persaud, 40, at gunpoint. He was ordered to go into the house, and he complied. In the house, the men confronted the other victims and demanded cash and other valuables.

Kumarie, Randy and Radiya were forced into a bedroom, where they were relieved of cash and jewellery. The Police have said that Kumarie was robbed of a pair of gold bangles, an iPhone XR, one black Guess shoulder bag containing $20,000 cash, and

other documents, including Identification Cards and receipts books.

Randy was relieved of one Samsung S6 Edge and $25,000 in cash, while Radiya was robbed of one gold ring, one iPhone 6, and one Samsung Galaxy mobile phone. Nothing was taken from Wazir.

After robbing the family, the armed men made good their escape on foot.

Soon after the ordeal, a report was made to the Police, and an investigation was launched. The area is being canvassed for surveillance cameras.

Infrastructure, energy among...

FROM PAGE 2

The Head of State had pointed out that due to their geographical locations, Guyana and Brazil must make strong statements in linking their territories.

He noted that in addition to oil and gas, expanding opportunities in the other nonoil natural resources sector such as bauxite will create an opportunity for a direct link to northern Brazil and the Atlantic that can “create an excellent platform for us to develop an integrated project”.

As it relates to trade, cur-

rently, there is an existing partial scope agreement that aims to foster bilateral trade flows by the exchange of tariff preferences between the two countries, cooperation on trade matters and increased participation of the Private Sector.

This, President Ali said, is currently under negotiation to be expanded since Guyana wants to increase its quota, especially as it relates to rice being exported to Brazil.

President Bolsonaro, via an interpreter, said that the

agenda for discussion looks “very promising” and that he will ensure that technical staff from the relevant Ministries in Brazil travel for the State visit.

Meanwhile, it has been touted that the Corentyne River Bridge project, linking Guyana and Suriname, will open up direct access to north-east Brazil, where there is said to be markets valuing millions of dollars.

Only Wednesday, a contract was signed for feasibility studies to be conducted on the bridge project.

11

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

M

other’s Day is one of the most special days of the year as it gives us a chance to express our love in so many ways to that incredible lady, we call Mother. We at times Media are extremely happy to help you in making this a memorable day by sharing with you some great gift ideas and places to shop: Mothers are honourable, here are some ideas to show your appreciation and love for mom on special day.

The Refine

Spa and Beauty

Mom is special, she works hard all day to keep us happy so let’s help her to unwind by treating her to spa day in a relaxing and aromatic environment.

Gentleman’s lounge and spa is bound to fulfill this special treatment to mom with their Mother’s Day Offer of a rejuvenating spa day and complimentary cocktail.

Mom is definitely going to enjoy this one!

TURN TO PAGE 13

Visit ‘The Refine’ to treat her to one of many of the services offered. These include body care services such as moon bath and clay bath which exfoliates your body and leaves the skin dry and smooth; full legs, eyebrows and bikini waxing, facials such as the French Green Clay Deep Steam. French green clay Mask is beneficial in removing impurities and tightening the pores, toning the skin, exfoliating dead skin cells and reducing inflammation in acne. It can also be used as a full-body treatment to soften dry, rough skin. The Refine pedicure would be a highly appreciated gift by mom as she would benefit from a back massage whilst getting her pedicure done to relax her feet after a hard-working week. The refine also offers flower arrangements in which flowers are presented to loved ones to help express human emotions. It is a representation of love and affection in the purest form. This and other services are being offered at ‘The Refine’. So, what are you waiting for?

Optik Ninon

Sunglasses are trendy and popping and also protects your eyes. Check out Optiek Ninon store for their special Mother’s day offer and win exciting prizes too!

12

FRIDAY, MAY 6,, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

13

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

FROM PAGE 11

Fragrance & Scents

Let mom feel special this year by getting her favourite fragrance or bath oils.

Breakfast & Brunch

Really want mom to take a break and kick back? Then take her out for an exotic cuisine. Visit Popeye’s for a special Mother’s day treat.

Say I love you Mom with flowers

Nothing warms the heart better than a bouquet of fresh flowers to show your love and appreciation to mom.

Gift items

Choose the perfect gift to express how you feel by adding that personal touch. create your own gift baskets by selecting just what mom needs.

Clothing/fashion

Let mom feel young and spritely again by keeping her gifting her trendy styles from boutiques around the country.

Heels and Footwear

Want your gift to stand out, then surprise mom by getting her that perfect pair of shoes, (bet she didn’t know you paid attention to her size)

14 NEWS

FRIDAY, MAY 6,, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Indo-Guyanese contributions to Guyana highlighted at Arrival Day celebrations

President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Dr Vindhya Persaud, addressing the gathering on Thursday

I

n observance of the 184th Anniversary of Indian Arrival Day, Indian High Commission to Guyana, Dr KJ Srinivasa, joined hands with the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha in celebrating the occasion at the Indian Arrival Monument at Palmyra, East Coast Berbice.

Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr KJ Srinivasa, at the event

A resident of Highbury dancing at the event

India-Guyana friendship.

The dignitaries addressed the gathering and lauded the contributions of East Indians to the development of Guyana.

The High Commissioner paid rich tributes to the Indo-Guyanese Diaspora, and called for a more widespread commemoration and

Guyanese flocked the monument site in Berbice

At the venue, the High Commissioner and Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud paid their respects to the Indian ancestors, and participated

recognition of their contributions to Guyana.

He also spoke on the latest developments in the India-Guyana bilateral re-

riculture, among others.

Signifying the importance of the Indian Arrival Day and the standing of the Indian Diaspora in Guyana, the Government of India had donated the Indian Arrival Monument, consisting of six bronze statues, which was installed at Palmyra Village in Berbice during the Indian Arrival Day celebrations on May 5, 2019.

The six bronze stat-

lations, and updated on the various collaborative projects under execution as part of Indian development assistance to Guyana.

The ongoing projects

The iconic monument at Palmyra was illuminated in multicoloured lights by the High Commission of India, to mark the occasion and showcase the ever-growing

and proposals under process include the sectors of infrastructure, transportation, drainage & irrigation, healthcare, education, training & skill development, ag-

ues depict a Hindu man, a Muslim man, a Drum boy, a woman with bundle, a woman with tawa and cahary, and a man with cutlass and rice plant.

A similar event was held at Plantation Highbury, which was attended by the High Commissioner; Education Minister Priya Manickchand; Culture, Youth and Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr; Public Works Minister Sonia Parag; Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Oneidge Walrond, along with Regional Chairman David Armogan and other officials.

The cultural aspect showcased the history of the celebrations through Indian

of East Indian Indentured labourers landed on May 5, 1838. On that day, two ships, Whitby and Hesperus, landed in the then British colony (Guiana) with approximate-

GHDS salutes resilience, indomitable spirit of immigrants

H

Dancers performed several pieces at the event

in “SANSKRITI” - a celebration of heritage, culture, and traditions.

The event was organised

by Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha.

classical and fusion dance performances by students of Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre.

It was at Plantation Highbury that the first set

ly 423 East Indians.

Meanwhile, India is celebrating its 75th Independence Anniversary on 15 August 2022. In the run-up to the celebration of this historic occasion, the Government of India is organising a number of events across the world. As a part of these events, the High Commission of India in Guyana, in collaboration with prominent Indian Diaspora Organisations in Guyana, thus commemorated the Indian Arrival Day. In observance of Arrival Day in Guyana on May 5, on behalf of the Government and people of India, the High Commission of India in Guyana extended best wishes to all Guyanese brothers and sisters.

ighlighting the importance of paying tribute to the indefatigable and indomitable spirit of the Indian indentured immigrants, the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha (GHDS) has said that their contributions have helped in shaping Guyana.

In celebration of Arrival Day on Thursday, the Sabha reflected on the contributions of ancestors who arrived as indentured immigrants to then British Guiana.

“Arrival Day gives us the opportunity to acknowledge and salute the visible and tangible imprints of their presence and impact in multiple spheres in our country.

From the earliest days of struggle and sacrifice, they demonstrated remarkable resilience and courage in the face of hardship, callous and inhumane living and working conditions,” their

statement underscored.

The organisation added that there are multiple stories of their resistance against colonialism and the struggle for an independent Guyana under better conditions.

“Our country has benefited tremendously from their invaluable contributions in diverse spheres.

Their industriousness in the agricultural sector in the earliest years and thereafter has been impactful, and benefited Guyana’s economy for decades. We recognise the remarkable foundation they laid for their descendants and all Guyanese to build on. We are grateful for their dedication in preserving a rich culture filled with beautiful traditions, creating a heritage that contributes to Guyana’s kaleidoscope of festivals, cultural practices, national cuisine, and everyday life.

“As Guyanese, their missive outlined that much can be learned by the courage and unity displayed by the immigrants against undemocratic practices and colonialism, consistent and ceaseless work to develop their community and country, and their respect and love for each other, that endured beyond the indentureship time and biological ties.

The GHDS noted, “They have left an enduring and rich heritage that is enjoyed today in the foods we eat, the clothing we wear, the festivals that are part of the national tapestry of diverse cultures. We are fortunate, as a country, to enjoy the diversity of the peoples who came, and to be able to look back with pride on all their contributions, and to have a legacy that is uniquely beautiful and varied.

It added, “We have enjoyed peaceful and religious harmony, and we must always use this to bridge all other barriers that may exist, remembering our ancestors’ collective struggles and arduous journeys in those early days of our country’s history. As descendants of those who came as indentured immigrants, we have much to be proud of, and to be grateful for, and build on.

We continue to celebrate our culture, our heritage and our traditions.”

15 $130M well station at Providence to become operational by end of May NEWS

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

– To benefit over 7000 households

M

ore than 7000 households in the East Bank Demerara communities of Providence, Farm, Herstelling, Eccles and Bagotstown will soon directly benefit from a newly drilled well in Providence.

The well station is being constructed to the tune of $130 million.

This assurance was given by Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal following a site visit to the area on Wednesday, where works are currently ongoing. He was accompanied by Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) Chief Executive Officer Shaik Baksh and a technical team.

The Minister highlighted that he has taken note of the concerns raised by resi-

dents regarding the low level of service in some of the above-mentioned areas recently, and said that, once completed, the new facility would bring great relief to residents.

The well was drilled to a depth of 638 feet by S. Jagmohan Construction Services, and the remaining works include installation of a discharge line and other transmission and distribution lines, and construction of the pump house, fence, and other ancillary works.

Minister Croal has said that, from all indications, works should be completed by the end of this month. He noted that the realisation of new housing schemes and increased occupancy of the existing ones have placed a

burden on the current water supply system, resulting in a reduced level of service for some customers along the East Bank corridor.

He explained that his Ministry and the GWI have recognised this, and are finding long-term solutions to increase the capacity to meet the demand and satisfactorily serve residents.

The Housing and Water Minister further posited that, within another year, East Bank Demerara residents could expect an overall improvement in the quality and quantity of water they receive, following the interlinking of the network.

In this regard, Baksh added that upgrades are in the pipeline for the Eccles and Covent Garden Water

EBD man killed in Windsor Forest accident

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal, GWI CEO Shaik Baksh, and a technical team visited the Providence well site

Treatment Plants, which would see new wells being drilled to supply these plants and increase production. Another well is also on the cards for Diamond.

The GWI CEO said the

A

n East Bank Demerara (EBD) resident died in the wee hours of Thursday after he reportedly lost control of the vehicle he was driving and it crashed into a concrete bridge at Windsor Forest, West Coast Demerara (WCD).

The dead man has been identified as Kelvin Ghisiawan of Samatta Point, Grove, EBD. Two children of Kaneville, EBD, aged 12 and 6, who were travelling in the car that

Ghisiawan was driving, have sustained injuries to their bodies.

The Police have said that the accident occurred at about 04:15h, and involved motor car PSS 3117, which, according to information received, was proceeding along the Windsor Forest roadway when Ghisiawan lost control of the vehicle and it slammed into a concrete bridge.

The impact of that crash extensively damaged the

car, and the driver and the two children, who were seated in the back of the vehicle, sustained injuries. The unconscious driver and the two conscious children were picked up by public-spirited persons and taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where Ghisiawan was pronounced dead on arrival.

The two children were treated and admitted to the medical facility. The 6-yearold suffered a broken left leg and injuries to her body.

Providence well is highly productive, and would supplement the Providence Number 1 well, which is not sufficient on its own for a growing population.

Hunter found dead in Essequibo with gunshot wounds

Dead: Suresh Dyal

Indira Dyal and a relative on Thursday

man who usually hunts to provide for his family was on Wednesday found dead at Mashabo backlands, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam). There were several gunshot wounds about his body.

The dead man has been identified as 54-year-old Suresh Dyal of Maria’s Lodge, Essequibo Coast.

Dyal had reportedly left home on Thursday, April 28, and was expected to return on Monday, May 2; and when he did not, his family started to worry about his safety.

Guyana Times understands that a search party of several persons, including family members, went into the backlands to look

for Dyal, and after combing the area for about a day, the man’s lifeless, partially decomposed body was found with multiple gunshot wounds.

The Police were immediately contacted, and an investigation has been launched. His body has been transported to the Suddie Hospital Mortuary to await a post mortem.

At the home of the dead hunter, his sister Indira Dyal said, "After he finished plough his rice field, he come home and told us he want a gallon of rice, because he going and hunt at Mashabo. He normally spends three to four days in the backlands… Four days passed, and we start to worry, and two men told us that

A

The car that was involved in the accident

utility would continue to work in close collaboration with the Ministry in an effort to expand its network, even as the housing drive intensifies.

Baksh said the new

someone shoot he."

Upon receiving the news, the man’s relatives and a few of his friends formed a search party and went into the backlands, hoping that the news was false.

"When they found him, he was already decomposed… We do not know if he was shot at close range or what, but he was found dead, and we believe that he was murdered," the woman stated. She related that gunshot wounds were found on his chest and groin.

In addition, detectives suspect that he might have been lashed to the head, since there were signs of blood stains. The Police are continuing their investigations.

16 NEWS

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Above-normal rainfall, flash floods predicted for May-July – Hydromet Office T

he Hydrometeorological Service of the Agriculture Ministry has predicted that there will be above-normal rainfall conditions over most of Guyana between May and July.

The forecast for this period indicates that the highest rainfall totals and the possibility of flash flooding during this season are expected to peak in May and June.

According to the seasonal forecast issued, rainfall amounts and frequency are expected to increase as the season progresses. It has been noted that, as the season progresses, water levels in the conservancies, reservoirs and

rivers across all Regions are likely to increase. The potential of flooding because of rain is also expected to increase throughout May and June.

The highest amount of rainfall can be expected in Regions Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara); Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni); Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

However, all other regions can still expect higher-than- normal rainfall values.

The temperature outlook suggests that, except for some areas in Regions One (BarimaWaini) and 10, all other areas can expect cool as usual to cooler (below-normal) night-time

temperatures. Warmer than usual (above-normal) day-time temperatures can be expected in northern Regions, while cooler than usual temperatures can be expected in the south.

The bulletin also noted that an increasing number of wet days and wet spells, coupled with high tides, could lead to water accumulation in coastal regions and disruption to transport, and possibility of landslides in hinterland areas.

“Flooding can lead to loss of crops and livestock, contamination of surface water, breeding grounds for mosquitos, and the proliferation of waterborne diseases. The

Hydrometeorological Service has recommended the continued maintenance of drainage infrastructure as the country transitions into the wet season, and has urged farmers to take all necessary precautions to secure their crops and livestock,” said the Hydromet Office.

The Hydrometeorological Service has said it would provide updates to its seasonal forecasts as new information becomes available, and recommends that special attention be paid to short-range forecasts provided, in order to plan daily farming activities.

For short-range forecasts and weather analyses, stakeholders are advised to follow

the daily weather briefs, outlooks and advisories produced by the National Weather Watch Centre, or visit www. hydromet.gov.gy. The forecast desk could also be reached at 261-2284 or 261-2216.

Since the beginning of May, Guyana has been subjected to increased rainfall. However, this has not resulted in any major accumulation of water, or flooding. The last major occurrence of inundation was in June 2021, when torrential rains resulted in mass flooding countrywide. Over 50,000 households were affected.

In the event of their being flooded, persons are asked to stay out of the water and

keep food items safe. Waterborne diseases can be contracted through contact with these waters.

Direct contact with floodwaters can expose persons to several germs that can lead to any of these diseases. Guardians are also asked to keep children especially out of the water, as they are most at risk of contracting diseases; and everyone should avoid swimming in canals and trenches.

Protective gear should be used, and feet should be washed regularly after persons exit the waters. If necessary, Vaseline or oil can be applied to form a barrier to protect from the dirty water.

Canadian university to train women, youths Jumbo Jet is sole in climate-smart agricultural practices distributor of Sinotruk – MoU inked to facilitate training with US$40M agreement

Y

ouths and women will benefit from training in climate-smart agricultural practices, because the Agriculture Ministry’s National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in this regard with the World University Service of Canada (WUSC) on Thursday.

The programme is being executed as part of WUSC’s Sustainable Agriculture Caribbean (SAC) project, which promotes climate-resilient agriculture for equitable economic growth among women and youths in the Caribbean. It builds on learning from the Promotion of Regional Opportunities for Produce through Enterprises and Linkages (PROPEL) project.

SAC is a multi-country economic growth project that is funded by Global Affairs Canada and is being implemented in Dominica, Guyana, Jamaica, St Lucia, and Suriname.

While speaking at the

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha (second left) with Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Mark Berman (second right), and other officials at the signing of the MoU

simple signing ceremony, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha said that, with climate change having such a negative impact on agriculture in the region and globally, Guyana is pleased to be a part of the SAC project, since it focuses on offering training to farmers on climate-smart agricultural practices.

“This project, the SAC project, was launched last September, and we are seeing it bear fruit. This is very important for us as a country, a country that is now moving its agriculture sector to new

heights. Partnerships with advanced countries like Canada auger well for us, because today Guyana is being seen as the leader for agriculture in the Caricom.

“For us to be the leader, we have to continue to develop our sector locally. This project will also enable us to advance towards a more climate-resilient agricultural sector. With climate change posing one of, if not the biggest threat to our agriculture sector, having a more climate-resilient agriculture sector is very important.

“The Government also rec-

ognises the need to integrate more youths into the agriculture sector. With the recently launched Agriculture and Innovation Entrepreneurship Programme, youths are now involved in the production of high-value crops. With this collaboration, we will be able to boost our agriculture sector and move it forward,” the Minister has said.

Also present at the event was Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Mark Berman. He said the Canadian Government is pleased to offer support to the Government of Guyana through the SAC project, as it works towards achieving the country’s targets outlined in the 2021–2025 Agriculture Strategic Development Strategy.

“Canada, through the SAC project, is very pleased to support the Government of Guyana’s Agriculture Development Strategy 20212025, and the achievement of country targets for food system transformation and resilience. This transformation process requires farmers and other market system actors to have the knowledge and skill needed for the adoption of best practices and innovations, and is a priority area for the SAC project.

“The SAC project will focus on all forms of training, support, and skills development for women’s entrepreneurship, including mentoring and coaching as an integral part of a lifelong entrepreneurial learning approach for the development of key competencies.

“I want to commend the Government of Guyana for its demonstrated commitment to the effective implementation of the SAC project and its leadership to transform the agricultural sector in Guyana,” Burman said.

The WUSC also donated several items to NAREI’s Training Department to commence the two agencies’ cooperation, including laptop computers, projectors, screens, electric cables, and a loudspeaker.

From left: Manager Sadeek Mohamed, Assistant Manager Irshad Mohamad, Nasrudeen Junior Mohamed, Rose Mohamed, Nasrudeen Mohamed (Jumbo) General Manager America Division Naijie Tao and Sohan Bridjlall

J

umbo Jet Auto Sales is now the sole distributor of the largest Chinese truck supplier, Sinotruk, after a monumental US$40 million agreement was signed this week.

Sinotruk Incorporated is now available to provide over 500 brand new trucks by partnering with Jumbo Jet – Guyana’s largest importer of agricultural machinery and trucks.

This move was initiated in wake of the country’s expanding economy and the many construction projects that are being undertaken. Jumbo Jet has said such development requires a variety of reliable equipment to meet the contractors’ demands, in order to successfully execute the existing and upcoming projects.

General Manager of the Caribbean Sinotruk International, Taonaijie, and Founder of Jumbo Jet, Nasrudeen Mohamed, finalised this agreement, which will see over 500 brand-new trucks coming from China to Guyana in the next few years. Different types of trucks will be available for sale to meet any demand. Options include, but are not limited to, dump trucks, tractor unit/hauler, flatbed, all-wheel drive, 8X4, 6X6, and 6X4, among others.

Spare parts will also be available for purchase.

Nasrudeen Mohamed Junior, speaking at the signing, said the demand for better quality trucks is growing in Guyana due to the rapid workload increase. A study done by Jumbo Jet Auto Sales has revealed that depreciation of the cur-

rent trucks makes them last only one to five years, whereas these brand-new trucks will be able to work efficiently for 10 years.

General Manager of Sinotruk for the Caribbean, Taonaijie, said the signing is important to his company, because the company gets to work with a reputable distributor such as Jumbo Jet. Further, he stated that Sinotruk is the number one brand of heavy-duty trucks in China.

Mohamed is very optimistic about this partnership to help provide brand new quality trucks to his community, so the members of his community can also reap the benefits and expand their business ventures.

He wants to support the booming economy, and is grateful for this opportunity of being the only distributor.

Jumbo Jet Auto Sales offers a lucrative credit system to each customer, providing the option to pay for items on an installment basis regardless of the quantity purchased.

According to Taonaijie, his company would try its best to satisfy the Guyanese market, and is hoping to make Guyana the centre of the Caribbean market, given the expected economic boom from the oil resources.

“Jumbo Jet Auto Sales will also be able to establish more job opportunities across Georgetown due to the influx of brand-new trucks being imported. Many new showrooms will be created to display the variety of trucks available for sale,” the auto sales entity has said in a statement.

NEWS

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FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Stop using social media influencers in place of Journalists – GPA to politicians

F

President Dr Irfaan Ali addressing media workers on Tuesday

ollowing the twoday Governmentsponsored and organised media conference, the Guyana Press Association (GPA) is calling on politicians to stop using social media influencers in place of journalists, saying that doing this is contributing to the degradation of journalism at the expediency of reach, likes and shares.

In observance of World Press Freedom Day, the Government hosted a National Conference and Symposium on Tuesday and Wednesday at the Arthur Chung Conference Center (ACCC) under the global theme: ‘Journalism under surveillance’, and Guyana’s national subtheme: ‘Partnerships in Communication for Development (C4D)’.

But in a statement on Thursday, the Press

Association is asking for the next national World Press Freedom Conference to be jointly organised with the GPA, and the focus to be on journalism.

The GPA noted that ‘freedom of expression’ is a fundamental human right as enshrined in Guyana’s Constitution and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. However, it pointed out that much of the debates and disagreements during the conference appeared to stem from the decision of the organisers to conflate of journalism public relations practice and social media influence.

The Press Association said that, whether or not this was the intent, it was a grave error, as each category of communication has its own role.

According to the GPA, social media influencers,

though they command some following, cannot and will not be regarded as journalists, and they should never contemplate seeing themselves as such.

It added, “If politicians across the divide claim to have any modicum of interest in improving the standard of journalism, then they ought to immediately cease utilising social media influencers in the place of journalists. To continue doing so is to contribute to the degradation of journalism at the altar of expediency of reach, likes, and shares.

“In this way, sections of the public are led to believe that such social media content is in keeping with globally accepted standards of journalism. Does this mean that anyone with a few followers, limited language competence, no regard for fact-checking, etc can be re-

garded by himself or herself and the public as a journalist because a politician uses him or her as an information conduit?”

Moreover, the Press Association further noted that journalism cannot be confused or mixed up with specialised content on specific topics or projects. As such, the GPA has urged that media houses and the Government consider discussing how information products on specific projects and issues can be broadcast or published with the appropriate disclaimer, so there is no confusion between paid content and journalism.

Additionally, the GPA reiterated its support for media and communication training, noting that this should be provided through the University of Guyana, which is an accredited tertiary institution.

In the missive on Thursday, the Press Association further stated that, based on utterances from a number of Government officials, including its panelists, the undertone appeared to be engaged in self-censorship under the guise of “responsibility” and “good”.

In this regard, the GPA commends the globally recognised Journalism Ethics, Principles and Codes of Conduct.

At the opening of the conference on Tuesday,

GPA President Nazima Raghubir

President Dr Irfaan Ali stressed that his People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government is a firm believer in a free press, and also being accessible to the media.

World Press Freedom Day 2022 was observed under the theme “Journalism Under Digital Siege”. In her address, GPA President Nazima Raghubir had zeroed in on threats faced by the media in various parts of the world, such as spyware like Pegasus.

“World Press Freedom Day is being observed under the theme ‘Journalism Under Siege’, which highlights not only media conversions, but the threats facing the media as we navigate this move to online.

These threats expose the media to destructive intrusions from ransomware and spyware, which poses se-

vere risks (to) the existence of media houses.

“In our statement, we called on media houses to safeguard ourselves, and the Government to assure media houses and operatives that such tactics will not be used to threaten the work of the media,” Raghubir said.

She also called on the President to say whether the Government is in possession of any spyware.

In response, President Ali made it clear that a Government spying on its people has no place in a democratic society, and should be rooted out wherever it exists. Not only did he assure that the Government would never go this route, but he also made it clear that he is not afraid of criticism.

“This Government has no intention whatsoever, it has not even contemplated my mind, to move in any direction to have any spyware.

I have not even imagined something like that. It will never happen, at least (not) under this Government,” the Head of State said.

He added, “I am open from leadership to criticism… constructive criticism. My favourite part in any newspaper is the cartoonist. We have to celebrate them because, in a single cartoon, they can send the most powerful message. And I love it, even when I’m the subject of it.”

15 persons test positive for COVID within 24 hours GUYANA COVID-19 DASHBOARD T he Health Ministry has reported 15 new coronavirus infections as of Thursday, adding to the 63,533 confirmed cases to date.

The Health Ministry’s statistics have reflected no new fatalities, as the death toll remains at 1228.

From the new statistics released by the Ministry, one patient is in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU); 99 persons in home isolation; none in institutional isolation, and one in institutional quarantine.

There were 62,204 recoveries from the 63,533 persons who tested positive (29,257 males and 34,276 females). COVID-19 tests have amounted to 601,603 since the virus was first detected here.

Most recent vaccination statistics show 440,451 first doses and 339,754 second doses being administered across the adult population.

This is approximately 85.9 per cent and 66.2 per cent respectively. Booster doses stand at 62,649.

Meanwhile, 25,289 or 34.7 per cent of the adolescent population have been completely vaccinated.

Two new Omicron variants have been the cause of increased infections in South Africa, with cases already reported in the United States.

May 6, 2022 UPDATE

NUMBER OF NEW CASES NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL ISOLATION

15 1

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN HOME ISOLATION

99

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN COVID-19 ICU

1

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL QUARANTINE

0

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (FEMALES)

34,276

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (MALES)

29,257

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES IN GUYANA SINCE 2020

63,533

NUMBER OF RECOVERED CASES

62,204

TOTAL 1st DOSE VACCINATED FULLY IMMUNISED TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES SINCE MARCH 2020 REGION 1

2519

REGION 2

2498

REGION 3

8075

REGION 4

31,431

REGION 5

2383

REGION 6

5806

REGION 7

2424

REGION 8

886

REGION 9

4038

REGION 10

3473

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

440,194 339,446 1228

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.

The BA.4 and BA.5 strains have been shown to evade vaccines and immunity from previous infections.

Last week, South African authorities said that the country would possibly enter its fifth COVID-19 wave owing to the rise of the BA.4 and BA.5 variants. Infections are rising, and so are hospitalisation figures. As such, local authorities said this week that the health situation is being monitored.

If anyone is displaying any of the symptoms associ-

ated with COVID-19, or need any additional information, they are asked to contact the COVID-19 Hotline on 2311166, 226-7480 or 624-6674 immediately or visit www. health.gov.gy.

Global figures show that almost 511.9 million people have tested positive for the virus and 6.2 million have died. In the Americas, more than 153.2 million confirmed cases have been reported with in excess of 2.7 million deaths.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022

Regional

British Virgin Islands passes JDF launches probe after vote of no confidence against video shows soldiers beating civilians with gun Premier Andrew Fahie

T

he House of Assembly of the British Virgin Islands on Thursday approved a vote of no-confidence against Premier Andrew Fahie following his arrest in Miami last week on drug charges.

Fahie, 51, was arrested at a Miami airport along with the Managing Director of the territory’s Ports Authority, Oleanvine Maynard, according to a complaint by the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

The hearing last Friday coincided with the release of a report commissioned by Queen Elizabeth’s representative in the territory which concluded that its constitution and elected government should be suspended due to concerns about dishonest governance.

According to the complaint, a DEA informant claimed in meetings with Fahie, Maynard and her son Kadeem Maynard to be a cartel member look-

British Virgin Islands Premier Andrew Fahie

ing to move thousands of kilograms of Colombian cocaine through the territory’s Tortola island and eventually to the United States.

“Surely following the arrest of its Premier, the (UK Foreign Office) should now take direct control of the British Virgin Islands pending a further investigation into corruption and money laundering?” Chris Bryant,

an Opposition Labour Member of the British Parliament, had tweeted.

But islanders have protested moves in that direction. Acting Premier Natalio Wheatley said he wanted to avoid direct rule by Britain, but supported working swiftly with stakeholders in the islands to address concerns about good governance.

Judge Jonathan Goodman scheduled a pre-trial detention hearing for Wednesday and a preliminary hearing for May 13.

On Wednesday, a US Judge ordered that Fahie should not face pre-trial detention, adding that he must post a US$500,000 bond and would be under home confinement.

Fahie, who is accused of money laundering and conspiring to import cocaine, will plead “not guilty” to drug trafficking charges, his lawyer said. (Excerpt from Reuters)

T

he Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) says it has launched an investigation into an incident captured on video showing soldiers beating a man and woman with a gun at a checkpoint in the Denham Town Zone of Special Operation.

According to the JDF, the incident which went viral on social media happened on Wednesday, May 4.

In the video, a woman can be seen arguing with four soldiers as they detain a man. One of the soldiers then pushes her away to which she reacted by shoving him back. Another sol-

dier then rushes in, pushing her away and raising his gun at her.

The man who had been detained then exited the soldiers’ service vehicle and rushed to the woman’s defence, to which the soldier reacted by beating him with his gun. The woman was also hit with the gun during the incident.

The matter was diffused by another soldier and both civilians were taken away in the jeep.

In a statement on Thursday, addressing the circulation of the video on social media, the JDF said it remained committed to en-

suring that appropriate actions were taken as deemed necessary.

“We continue to urge residents of communities within which the security forces are required to operate to cooperate with our personnel as they seek to ensure the safety and security of citizens within these spaces,” the force said.

The JDF added that it was committed to working with the Jamaica Constabulary Force in re-evaluating how the challenges in the community may be better managed.

(Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Nicaragua shuts down 50 nonprofits in new crackdown

Otoniel shipped “outrageous” amounts of cocaine to US – Prosecutor

O

ne of Colombia’s most notorious drug traffickers shipped “outrageous quantities of cocaine” into the United States, a top US Prosecutor has said, a day after Dairo Antonio Usuga was extradited to face charges in New York.

Usuga, better known as Otoniel, is “one of the most dangerous, most wanted drug kingpins in the world” who once had as many as 6000 “henchmen” under his command, Breon Peace, the US Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, told reporters on

Thursday.

“He earned enormous profits, measured in billions, not millions,” Peace said. “Today he will finally face justice.”

Otoniel pleaded not guilty through his lawyer, Arturo Hernandez, to two charges of engaging in a continuing criminal enterprise and conspiring to manufacture and distribute cocaine. Prosecutor Gillian Kassner said the Government would not move forward with a third charge over firearms use.

Hernandez did not challenge his client’s detention,

but disputed Kassner’s claim that the danger of releasing Otoniel “cannot be overstated”.

“We certainly don’t agree with their evaluation,” Hernandez said.

Colombian authorities captured Otoniel in October last year after a massive military operation.

President Ivan Duque said at the time that his arrest marked “the biggest blow against drug trafficking in our country this century”, only comparable to the fall of infamous drug lord Pablo Escobar.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Among the NGOs previously stripped of their legal status is Operation Smile, which provided palate repair surgeries

N

icaragua’s Parliament has voted in favour of shutting down 50 Non-Governmental Organisations.

The Parliament, which is dominated by allies of President Daniel Ortega, said the NGOs had failed to comply with regulations.

But Government critics say the move is part of a larger crackdown on opponents of the President, which has seen 144 NGOs banned so far this year.

Universities and foundations have also been closed.

Among the NGOs shut

down on Wednesday are groups defending human rights, organisations providing medical help and those promoting educational projects. They range from a group representing dental surgeons to one promoting the rights of girls.

The decree to strip them of their legal status was approved by 75 votes in favour.

There were 16 abstentions and no votes against the measure.

It had been brought before Parliament by Filiberto Rodríguez, a lawmaker from President Ortega’s FSLN

party.

Rodríguez argued that the “50 associations do not want to comply with the law, they want to violate the law”.

Nicaragua’s Interior Ministry said the organisations had failed to submit their financial statements or to disclose the names of their directors.

Representatives of some of the NGOs closed down under previous decrees said that they had tried to hand in the required documents, but that the relevant authorities had refused to receive them.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Digicel awarded for fastest Internet network in Region Dozens killed in Haiti in 2 weeks of

O

okla, the global leader in Internet testing and analysis, has confirmed that Digicel mobile customers benefit from the fastest network in the Caribbean and has confirmed the Speedtest Award for the Region to Digicel.

A statement by Digital said it promised customers the best network and was constantly investing in it to ensure it delivered the best experience. “Markets with the fastest mobile network speeds clocked in an impressive average download speed of 37.63 Mbps and average

upload speed of 10.53 Mbps in testing data for the period from July to December 2021, Ookla’s Speedtest award is proof positive that, when it comes to speed, the Digicel network leaves competitor networks in the dust,” the statement said.

Commenting on the award, Digicel Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Oliver Coughlan, said; “This award for the fastest network in the Caribbean is special to us for two reasons.

First, it gives our customers the confidence that they have made the right choice

of communications provider and that we take our promise to provide them with the best network so they can live their digital lives to the fullest extremely seriously. And second, it’s a testament to the constant hard work, focus, and effort put in round the clock by our fantastic teams across the Region who always want to delight our customers and go the extra mile for them. I would like to thank our customers for making it Digicel and our teams for making Digicel what it is.” (Trinidad Guardian)

gun battles, thousands flee homes

G

un battles between rival gangs in Portau-Prince have killed dozens in the past two weeks and forced thousands to flee their homes, Haiti’s civil protection authority and a United Nations agency said.

The Chen Mechan and 400 Mawozo gangs, the latter of which kidnapped a group of US and Canadian missionaries last year, have been waging turf wars since

April 24, killing at least 39 people and creating havoc in and around the capital.

“At least 23 houses were burned down, and 48 schools, five medical centres and eight markets had to close,” the authority and the UN Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said in a report sent to Reuters on Thursday.

It describes the situation up until Wednesday afternoon.

The clashes have also wounded 68 and has crippled operations of the country’s largest fuel terminal, leading to fuel shortages, with the gangs hijacking 10 tanker trucks.

About 9000 people have had to move to other homes, the report added.

Gangs have steadily boosted their power since the July assassination of President Jovenel Moïse.

(Reuters)

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022

19

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS Oil edges up on supply jitters as EU plans Russian oil ban

O

il prices edged up on Thursday on supply worries after the European Union (EU) laid out plans for new sanctions against Russia including an embargo on crude.

Pressure from a stronger dollar and a drop in global stock markets, however, kept oil prices in check.

Brent futures rose 76 cents, or 0.7 per cent, to settle at US$110.90 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose 45 cents, or 0.4 per cent, to settle at US$108.26.

That was the highest close for WTI since March 25 and the highest settle for Brent since April 18.

US gasoline futures , meanwhile, closed at their highest since settling at a record high on March 8.

A strong dollar makes oil more expensive for holders of other currencies.

Wall Street stocks tumbled as investors shed risky investments, worried the Fed might hike rates more this year to tame inflation.

The EU sanctions proposal, which needs unanimous backing from the 27 countries in the bloc, includes phasing out imports of Russian refined products by the end of 2022 and a ban on all shipping and insurance services for transporting Russian oil.

"The oil market has not fully priced in the potential of an EU oil embargo, so higher crude prices are to be expected in the summer months if it's voted into law," Rystad Energy head of oil markets research Bjornar Tonhaugen said.

Japan said it would face difficulties in immediately cutting off Russian oil imports.

The Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, Russia and allied producers (OPEC+) agreed to another modest monthly oil output increase. Ignoring calls from Western nations to hike output more, OPEC+ agreed to raise June production by 432,000 barrels per day, in line with its plan to unwind curbs made when the pandemic hammered demand. A US Senate panel advanced a bill that could expose OPEC+ to lawsuits for collusion on boosting oil prices. Congress has failed to pass versions of the legislation for more than two decades, but lawmakers are worried about rising inflation and high gasoline prices.

Prices for near-term Brent and WTI oil futures are much more expensive than for future months, a situation known as backwardation. Robert Yawger, executive director of energy futures at Mizuho, said futures for both benchmarks were in "super-backwardation" through at least April 2023 with each future month at least US$1 a barrel below the prior month.

Yawger said that situation could change as the US Government buys crude to replenish strategic crude reserves.

"The back of the curve will arguably have a strong tailwind in coming months, with the Biden Administration announcing today that the Department of Energy would start the process sometime this fall of buying back 60 million barrels of crude oil to refill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve," Yawger said. (Reuters)

UN says evacuation efforts under way for civilians trapped in Ukrainian plant

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cores of Ukrainian civilians, including women and children, remained trapped on Thursday in a Mariupol steel works that has been rocked by heavy explosions as Russian forces fight for control of Ukraine's last stronghold in the ruined port city.

The United Nations said a new operation was underway to evacuate more people from Mariupol and the Azovstal steel plant, where an estimated 200 civilians are still holed up in underground bunkers with little food or water.

President Vladimir Putin said Russia was prepared to provide safe passage out for civilians, but reiterated calls for Ukrainian forces inside to disarm. Clinging on desperately, Ukrainian fighters have reported fierce battles with Russian

An aerial view shows shelling in the Azovstal steel plant complex, amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine, in Mariupol, Ukraine, in this screen grab taken from a handout video released on May 5, 2022

troops.

Putin declared victory over Mariupol on April 21 and ordered his forces to seal off the Soviet-era plant but not venture inside its underground tunnel network. The Kremlin denies Ukrainian allegations Russian troops stormed the plant in recent days.

Aerial footage over the plant, released Thursday

Putin sorry for Lavrov's claim Hitler was part Jewish – Israel PM

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ussian President Vladimir Putin has apologised after his Foreign Minister said that Nazi leader Adolf Hitler had "Jewish blood", Israel says.

Putin made the apology in a call with Israeli PM Naftali Bennett, his office said in a statement.

Russia's account of the conversation did not mention an apology.

Sergei Lavrov made the initial comments to try to justify Russia's portrayal of Ukraine as "Nazi" despite the fact that its president is Jewish.

Lavrov spoke to Italian TV on Sunday, days after Israel marked Holocaust Remembrance Day – one of the most solemn occasions on the Israeli calendar.

When asked how Russia can claim that it is fight-

ing to "de-Nazify" Ukraine when President Volodymyr Zelensky is himself Jewish, Lavrov said: "I could be wrong, but Hitler also had Jewish blood. [That Zelensky is Jewish] means absolutely nothing. Wise Jewish people say that the most ardent anti-Semites are usually Jews."

The comments sparked outrage in Israel. Nazi Germany murdered six million Jews in the Holocaust in World War Two. Israel had demanded an apology, with Bennett saying shortly after that "such lies are meant to blame the Jews themselves for the most terrible crimes in history and thus free the oppressors of the Jews from their responsibility".

(Excerpt from BBC News)

not give in to terror."

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas condemned the attack. The official Palestinian news agency WAFA quoted him as saying "the killing of Palestinian and Israeli civilians will only lead to more deterioration of the situation".

There have been a spate of Arab street attacks in Israel in recent weeks.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

mid a once-in-a-millennium prolonged drought fuelled by the climate crisis, one of the largest water distribution agencies in the United States is warning six million California residents to cut back their water usage this summer, or risk dire shortages.

The scale of the restrictions is unprecedented in the history of the Metropolitan Water District of Southern

by Ukraine's Azov Regiment, showed three explosions strike different parts of the vast com-

plex, which was engulfed in heavy, dark smoke.

Reuters verified the footage location by matching buildings with satellite imagery, but was unable to identify when the video was filmed.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres told the Security Council that a third operation was underway to evacuate civilians from Mariupol and Azovstal. In joint efforts with the Red Cross, the UN has helped nearly 500 civilians flee the area over the past week. (Excerpt from Reuters)

World’s true pandemic death toll nearly 15 million, says WHO

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he COVID pandemic has caused the deaths of nearly 15 million people around the world, the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates.

That is 13 per cent more deaths than normally expected over two years.

The WHO believes many countries undercounted the numbers who died from COVID – only 5.4 million were reported.

The measure used by the WHO is called excess deaths – how many more people died than would normally be expected based on mortality in the same area before the pandemic hit.

These calculations also take into account deaths which were not directly because of COVID, but instead caused by its knock-on effects, like people being unable to access hospitals for the care they needed. It also accounts for poor record-keeping in

some regions, and sparse testing at the start of the crisis.

But the WHO said the majority of the extra 9.5 million deaths seen above the 5.4 million COVID deaths reported were thought to be direct deaths caused by the virus, rather than indirect deaths.

Speaking about the scale of the figures, Dr Samira Asma, from the WHO's data department, said "It's a tragedy.

"It's a staggering number and it's important for us to honour the lives that are lost, and we have to hold policymakers accountable," she said.

"If we don't count the dead, we will miss the opportunity to be better prepared for the next time."

Countries with the highest total excess deaths included India, Russia, Indonesia, USA, Brazil, Mexico and Peru, the WHO figures suggest.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

California declares unprecedented 3 killed in attack in Israel water restrictions amid drought

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t least three people were killed in what Police suspect was a Palestinian attack in the central Israeli city of Elad on the country's Independence Day. Witnesses and emergency responders said the attackers used axes.

Police set up roadblocks to try to catch the assailants who fled the scene, about 15 kilometres (9 miles) from Tel Aviv. On television,

Elad's Mayor urged residents to stay indoors while security forces were still operating.

Health officials said three people were killed and two others were being treated with serious slash wounds.

"The joy of Independence Day was cut short in an instant. A murderous attack in Elad that shocks the heart and soul," Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid posted on Twitter. "We will

A

California, which serves 20 million people and has been in operation for nearly a century.

Adel Hagekhalil, the district’s general manager, has asked residents to limit outdoor watering to one day a week so there will be enough water for drinking, cooking, and flushing toilets months from now.

“This is real; this is serious and unprecedented,” Hagekhalil told Al Jazeera.

“We need to do it, otherwise

we don’t have enough water for indoor use, which is the basic health and safety stuff we need every day.”

The district has imposed restrictions before, but not to this extent, he said. “This is the first time we’ve said, we don’t have enough water [from the Sierra Nevadas in northern California] to last us for the rest of the year, unless we cut our usage by 35 per cent.” (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

20

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022

guyanatimesgy.com

DAILY HOROSCOPES

ARCHIE

Stick close to home, and don't reveal personal information. Put your energy into improving living arrangements and lowering stress. Use experience and knowledge to overcome pitfalls.

(March 21-April 19) Time spent with a friend, relative or peer will clear up some uncertainty.

Assess what you want to pursue next.

Physical improvements and a healthy lifestyle will energize you.

DILBERT (April 20-May 20)

(May 21-June 20)

PEANUTS (June 21-July 22)

Making a push will pay off. Focus on accomplishments and follow through with a positive attitude and a workable plan. Stop worrying about what others do or think; take the path that makes sense to you.

Channel your energy into action and proceed until you are happy with what you accomplish. Look for solid investments that will give you financial security. A positive change is heading your way.

Talk until you come to an agreement that doesn't jeopardize your time, money or reputation. A friendly attitude will give you the edge when faced with difficult situations and people.

(July 23-Aug. 22) Pitch in and do your part. The suggestions you make and the changes you bring about will have a lasting effect. Do whatever it takes to get ahead. A joint venture will require an equitable plan.

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Control your emotions. Concentrate on long-term effects. Find purpose in what you do, and it will give you peace of mind and make it easier for you to say no to tempting but deleterious offers.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23) Give your best, and you'll get high returns. Network, engage in events and be open to suggestions. The information you pick up will give insight into an investment with potential.

SUDOKU (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Keep your financial matters in check.

Don't take a risk or share expenses.

Take care of your responsibilities and leave nothing undone. Clear your to-do list, and you'll enjoy peace of mind.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21) Use your imagination and share your ideas and intentions. You'll attract an attentive audience. Don't take a risk with your health or physical well-being.

Protect against injury and illness.

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Slow down, savor the moment and relax in the confines of your home.

Taking time to relax will also encourage clarity regarding your next move.

Formulate a plan. Romance is featured.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19) You know what others expect from you. Put such work behind you without complaint and move on to more enjoyable situations and pastimes. Venture out and try something new and exciting.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022

21

IPL 2022…

Warner, Powell power Capitals convincingly past Sunrisers hitting, and although Nicholas Pooran kept them clinging to the coattails of the asking rate with a crisp 62 off 34 - his first fifty of the season - Khaleel Ahmed picked up 3 for 30 as the Capitals’ attack closed out a win that moved them above their opponents and into fifth position on the table.

Warner walks the talk

Khaleel Ahmed picked up 3 important wickets

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Before this game, Warner had emphasised the importance of either himself, fellow opener Prithvi Shaw, or #3 Mitchell Marsh “scoring an 80 or 90, or even a hundred if we can”.

With Shaw absent through illness, and Marsh falling cheaply - following Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s wicket maiden to start the Capitals innings - Warner took it upon himself to deliver the goods.

His first ball was slapped through the covers, not all that far from going to hand, but thereafter this was a supremely judged innings. He jump-started the scoreboard during a rare outing for Umran Malik in the powerplay, helping himself to three boundaries during an over that cost 23.

There were a number of crunching straight drives, leg-side swats for six off Malik and Kartik Tyagi, and a clean mow over long-on against Aiden Markram’s offbreaks. Most impressive of all was his split-second readjustment against Bhuvneshwar, having changed his stance in preparation to switch hit. The ball was full outside leg (to a left-hander), but Warner played it adeptly as a right-hander to glide four to third.

That came off the first ball of the 19th over, and by the end of it, he had moved to 92 from 58 - and in sight of a century against his former franchise.

There was no one in Delhi blue more pumped than Warner, standing at the non-striker’s end as Powell took over against Malik, who finished with 0 for 52.

Powell explained Warner’s advice at the innings break: “At the start of the over, I asked him if he wanted a single to try and get the hundred, and he said: ‘Listen, that is not how the cricket play.’ I should try to smack it as hard as I can and as far as I can, and I did that.”

avid Warner took centre stage in the clash between his current franchise, Delhi Capitals, and the one that unceremoniously dumped him last season, Sunrisers Hyderabad. An unbeaten 92 runs from 58 balls set up Delhi Capitals for a comfortable victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad, and in the process a much-needed two points in their quest to force a way into contention for the knockout stages.

Warner batted through the innings to help guide Capitals to a score above 200, after Sunrisers captain Kane Williamson had won his ninth toss from ten, and had chosen to insert.

The Australian opener, now fourth on this season’s run-scoring charts, found a vital ally in Rovman Powell, and the fourth-wicket pair combined for an unbroken 122-run stand.

Powell finished with three fours and six sixes in scoring 67 runs from 35 balls, and 70 runs cascaded from the last five overs of the innings to put the chase beyond Sunrisers.

Needing to score at more than ten an over, Sunrisers barely managed to go at a run a ball for the first half of their innings. A requirement of 145 from ten overs, with just seven wickets standing, was an equation beyond David Warner smashed 92 all but the most outrageous of

SCOREBOARD

DELHI CAPITALS INNINGS (20 overs maximum) Mandeep Singh c †Pooran b Kumar 0 David Warner not out 92 Mitchell Marsh c & b Abbott 10 Rishabh Pant (c)† b Gopal 26 Rovman Powell not out 67 Extras (b 1, nb 1, w 10) 12 TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 10.35) 207/3 Did not bat: Lalit Yadav, Ripal Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Anrich Nortje, Khaleel Ahmed Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Mandeep Singh, 0.5 ov), 2-37 (Mitchell Marsh, 4.2 ov), 3-85 (Rishabh Pant, 8.6 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Bhuvneshwar Kumar 4-1-25-1 Sean Abbott 4-0-47-1 Umran Malik 4-0-52-0 Kartik Tyagi 4-0-37-0 Shreyas Gopal 3-0-34-1 Aiden Markram 1-0-11-0 SUNRISERS HYDERABAD INNINGS (Target: 208 runs from 20 overs) Abhishek Sharma c Kuldeep Yadav b Ahmed 7

Kane Williamson (c) c †Pant b Nortje 4 Rahul Tripathi c Thakur b Marsh 22 Aiden Markram c Kuldeep Yadav b Ahmed 42 Nicholas Pooran † c Powell b Thakur 62 Shashank Singh c Nortje b Thakur 10 Sean Abbott c Patel b Ahmed 7 Shreyas Gopal not out 9 Kartik Tyagi b Kuldeep Yadav 7 Bhuvneshwar Kumar not out 5 Extras (lb 1, w 10) 11 TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 9.30) 186/8 Did not bat: Umran Malik Fall of wickets: 1-8 (Abhishek Sharma, 1.3 ov), 2-24 (Kane Williamson, 4.2 ov), 3-37 (Rahul Tripathi, 6.6 ov), 4-97 (Aiden Markram, 12.5 ov), 5-134 (Shashank Singh, 14.5 ov), 6-153 (Sean Abbott, 16.4 ov), 7-165 (Nicholas Pooran, 17.5 ov), 8-181 (Kartik Tyagi, 19.1 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Shardul Thakur 4-0-44-2 Khaleel Ahmed 4-0-30-3 Anrich Nortje 4-0-35-1 Mitchell Marsh 4-0-36-1 Kuldeep Yadav 4-0-40-1

a season.

Powell had described the pitch as “very good” at halfway, and the Brabourne had seen a higher score hunted down this season - Lucknow Super Giants reaching 211 with three balls to spare against Chennai Super Kings in game seven. But the early loss of Abhishek Sharma hurt Sunrisers’ chances of a fast start, and with Williamson taking seven balls to get off the mark, his team limped to 35 for 2 at the end of the powerplay (a total boosted by ing the fourth and Rahul Tripathi slashfifth balls of the sixth over for four).

After nine overs, Sunrisers were 48 for 3, needing to score at more than 14

runs an over; and the rate barely came down from that point, despite the best efforts of Pooran, and to a lesser extent Markram, who showed what might have been possible with a better platNicholas Pooran was close form on which to build. to chasing down the total (ESPNcricinfo)

Phoenix Suns and Miami Heat each take 2-0 NBA playoff lead

Powell powers Capitals

A first IPL half-century from Powell set the seal on Capitals’ innings. There was no doubting his ability to “smack it” as hard and as far as he could, as he cleared the ropes six times on the way past 50 from 30 balls.

The Jamaican has fulfilled a number of briefs in this Capitals side, appearing as high as #3 in the order, and as low as #8. But here he said he had asked Rishabh Pant for time to show what he could do at #5, and duly repaid the management with his highest score in nine innings.

Powell took a little time to get settled, reaching 19 from 18 balls in the 16th over. He might have been out twice by that point; however, a top-edged swipe at Sean Abbott evaded the backtracking Tyagi at short fine leg, and Williamson then shelled a simple chance at mid-off, Malik being the unlucky bowler.

Making the most of his reprieves, Powell slaughtered the previously unhittable Bhuvneshwar, who had 1 for 4 from 15 balls up to that point. Powell struck him over deep square leg, then launched back-to-back sixes off Abbott, one of them sailing 104 metres over cover. On 41, he probably should have been taken on the rope, when a smash down the ground seemed set to pick out Markram at long-on, only for the fielder to misjudge the catch and palm it over the rope. Two more blows for six brought him fifty, and he finished the innings with 4-4-4 off Malik, including creaming a 157kph ball - the fastest of this year’s IPL - through the covers.

Sunrisers stumble out the blocks

Williamson went into this match to the backdrop of murmurs about his strike rate - and they will only increase after another scratchy outing, which yielded 4 off 11 and a fiddled catch behind against Anrich Nortje in the fifth over. That left him with 199 runs from 10 innings this IPL, and a strike rate of 96.13: the lowest by any opener to have faced 200 balls in

T

Devin Booker scored 21 of his 30 points in the second half for the Suns

he Phoenix Suns and the Miami Heat lead their best-ofseven playoff series 2-0 after respective victories over the Dallas Mavericks and the Philadelphia 76ers.

Chris Paul scored 28 points for the Suns in a 129-109 win over the Mavericks in the Western Conference.

“We just did what we were supposed to; we won two games at home,” said Paul.

In the Eastern Conference, the Heat also took advantage of being at home in a 119-103 victory over the 76ers.

Bam Adebayo scored 23 points, and Jimmy Butler 22 for the hosts, while Tyrese Maxey scored a game-high 34 points for Philadelphia.

The 76ers would hope Joel Embiid comes back on Friday for the first of their two home games, but coach Doc Rivers has conceded: “He’s got so many steps to go through. I don’t think he’s cleared any of them right now. So, we just have to wait and see.”

The Mavericks, who also host the next two games in their series, outscored the Suns 32-26 in the second quarter to take a 60-58 lead, with Luka Doncic top scoring with 35 points.

However, Paul scored 14 of his points in the fourth quarter, as his side won it 40-26 to surge to victory. “[We] just had to be a little bit more aggressive,” Paul said.

“That second quarter we started turning it over. They got it going. Shooters were making shots, and we just wanted to stay the course.” (BBC Sport)

22

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Elite clubs to participate in GFA Senior League …Set for May 15 start

By Jemima Holmes

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he Georgetown Football Association (GFA) on Thursday May 5 announced the commencement of their first league, which will be a Men’s Senior league.

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) revealed only last week that the Regional Member Associations (RMAs) would be responsible for running four leagues, all commencing in the month of May. With the GFA’s launch on Thursday, Georgetown have become the first Association to roll out one of their ‘return to football’ events.

The GFA League would feature 16 clubs, 11 of which are from the Association and five are Elite League teams.

While the tournament was welcomed, the announcement was not met without pressing questions from the Association’s clubs about the Elite teams’ involvement.

Although the Land of Many Waters was celebrating Arrival Day, GFA President Otis James operated in contrary fashion, failing to show up at his Association’s league launch.

Standing in his place was Vice-President Dirk Exeter, who said the sole focus of the shortened league is to have football playing once again.

“Because we’re trying to let soccer start again and be fair to every club, what has come from the GFF, they decided to let every sub- association run a league, and

resentatives by revealing the Elite teams will not be included in the GFA’s official league, set to commence in September.

“In the future, when the GFA launch our league, the elite clubs will not be a part of the GFA league. Just for the beginning and starting back soccer, we’re trying

ecuted, eyebrows were raised; but, like everything else, new things always tend to have that effect on people. But we hope only good will come out of this strategy in our postCOVID effort at brining football back to the top, where it belongs.”

In Group A will be

GFA VP Dirk Exeter

GFA Executive Members Jenill Browne, Dirk Exeter, Clifton Adams, Lomell Johnson and Ackram Sabree, accompanied by representatives from the Senior League’s clubs

whichever elite club is in that sub-association, they’ll be a part of the league,” Exeter shared.

After explaining that their inclusion came at the recommendation of the Federation, Exeter went on to persuade the Clubs’ rep-

to get everybody involved again,” he disclosed.

Meanwhile, GFA Treasurer Ackram Sabree admitted that the probes were not unexpected. Sabree stated, “When this was first announced, that this is what was planned and will be ex-

Linden Town Week Mayor’s Cup dominoes tournament…

Swag Boss defeat WHO and GJETSCO

the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Western Tigers, Campton, Eastville, Pele FC, Deaf Super Kings (DSK), Vengy FC and Northern Rangers. Group B would comprise Police

FC, Santos FC, Fruta Conquerors, Georgetown Football Club (GFC), Black Pearl, Riddim Squad, GT Panthers and Order and Discipline.

Present at the proceedings, being available to shed some light on the GFF’s position, Lawrence ‘Sparrow’ Griffith revealed that the team’s ultimate focus should be on the GFF’s Champions Cup in August.

“This tournament is just to facilitate football to start back,” he stated. Sparrow added, “In August, the top

Eagle Pro T20 championships…

Kumar Joseph’s allround effort helps Panthers to title win

two teams from each association will be playing a Champions Cup. So, at the end of the tournament, depends on the top teams from Georgetown, based on the standings, then there will be able to represent the GF in this Champion of Champions.”

As announced by the GFF, the Men’s Senior League will kick-off on May 15. The GFA’s league will see its first match at the Guyana Police Force (GPF) Ground, Eve Leary.

In addition to the tournament launch and discussion of logistics surrounding such, the GFA also presented their Clubs with some equipment in anticipation of their preparation.

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Linden Mayor Mrs Waneka Arrindell presenting Swag Boss captain Arthur Chung with the MVP Trophy in presence of other members of the Swag Boss team

he Dewar’s domino tournament having been won by Bidders, Swag Boss have snatched honours in that tournament, and have won the Linden Mayor’s Cup One Day Town Week dominoes tourney which was played last Saturday at the Egbert Benjamin Conference Hall in Mackenzie.

Playing in this competition, held in honour of Linden Mayor Mrs Waneka Arrindell and organised by Westwell Peters of the Big Landing Dominoes Club, Swag Boss showed their class in amassing 80 games to leave WHO, with 72

games, in second place and GJETSCO a distant third place with 50 games.

In leading the Swag Boss team to their win, captain Arthur Chung marked 17 games and was adjudged Player of the Final, while teammate Andre Ferdinand contributed 15 wins in that victory charge.

Some nine teams had entered the tournament, which was sponsored by the Linden Town Week Committee.

Those teams were Bidders, Warriors, Rockets, CATS, Royal Champions, WHO, GJETSCO, Swag Boss, and Big Landing.

Linden Mayor

Waneka Arrindell took time off during the Town Week’s 52nd anniversary to attend the dominoes tourney and present the top prizes to the winners. She expressed interest in seeing the tournament become an annual feature.

Tournament winners Swag Boss copped the first prize of $100,000, and WHO collected the $40,000 second prize, while GJETSCO was awarded the $20,000 third prize. Snook’s Jewelry, Powers Broad Money, and Life Time Gift Shop were among other sponsors of this tournament.

Kumar Joseph (centre) receiving his Player of the Match trophy at the presentation

ormer Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club player Kumar Joseph had a solid all-round game to help Panthers beat Ninjas by 36 runs in the Eagle Pro T20 championships played at Wrentham, Massachusetts.

Joseph was awarded Player of the Match for contributing 25 runs and taking 3 wickets for 16 runs in three overs, which included the game’s only maiden over.

With the match being reduced to 15 overs, Panthers batted first and made 1334. Apurva Maheshram made 45 from 29 balls, his unbeaten innings including two fours and two sixes. Deepak Bahadur made 43 from 34 balls, while Joseph, who opened the batting, made 25 from 17 balls.

Earlier, Panthers lost Kishore Sajja and Bhautik Tapiwala early for three runs each, but Joseph dropped an-

chor to set a platform for both Maheshram and Bahadur.

In response, the Ninjas were restricted to 97-9 in 15 overs. Azher Ali topscored with 43, while Karan Parikh made 13. Those were the only batsmen to pass double figures for the Ninjas.

During the chase, the Ninjas were wobbled early. After 3.2 overs, they had lost the first wicket for 26 runs, but Azher Ali stood tall, although he got little support. His top-score of 43 included three sixes. He watched Vineed Balan (05) and Pranav Patel (09) being blown away, along with opener Praikh, as his other top four batsmen fell cheaply.

Joshua Dhani claimed 4-14 from his three overs, and he was supported by off-spinner Joseph, who claimed 3-16.

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23

West Indies to leave for Netherlands tour around May 24 -squad to be selected in a few days' time

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he West Indies men’s team would be in action against their Netherlands counterparts from May 31 to June 4 at the VRA Cricket Ground in Amstelveen, North Holland, Netherlands.

The Caribbean team is expected to depart Trinidad around May 24 for the threematch ODI series, immediately after which the squad would travel to Pakistan to play three ODIs. According to Cricket West Indies Operations Manager Roland Holder, the squad would comprise 15-16 players who would play the six ODIs against Netherlands and Pakistan.

“We are scheduled to leave the Caribbean around May 24 to head to Netherlands.

We are working with our

travel partners to secure the flight, make sure everything is in place. We are looking at the best options. There is a direct flight from Trinidad, so we are trying to ensure we have all those seats on it.

We expect that team would be selected towards the end of this week or towards next week, so that we would have a great idea to know who is going, and we can fine-tune all the arrangements, Holder said.

“From the Netherlands, we go to Pakistan to play those three ODIs,” Holder disclosed on the recent Mason and Guest radio programme, aired on Voice of Barbados.

The three matches to be played in Netherlands form part of the ICC ODI Super League, wherein West Indies

release, CWI CEO Johnny Grave said: “We have been working closely with our colleagues at KNCB to put together this series immediately after the IPL, and we are happy to now be able to announce the match schedule.

“It’s going to be exciting to tour the Netherlands for

Roland Holder

and the Netherlands will have the opportunity to secure points to try and secure one of the top seven places, excluding hosts India, to gain automatic qualification for the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. In a recent CWI media

Rupununi youths get taste of competitive archery

Y

oungsters from St. Ignatius Village, Rupununi, Region 9, were recently treated to a special archery training exercise under the supervision of Archery Guyana's Senior Coach Robert Singh.

While on a visit to Region 9, Mr Singh, who resides in Georgetown, collaborated with one of Archery Guyana's assistant coaches, Shunette Thompson, to arrange an Archery Clinic in an effort to introduce the shooting techniques of a recurve bow to the residents of Region 9.

He utilised rubber stretch bands to initiate the training, after which the actual recurve equipment was used for practice. He explained to the youths the various archery equipment, safety rules, shooting stance, alignment stance and release.

Excitement beamed on the

faces of the participants, as this was the first time some of the participants were witnessing such an exhibition, since the usual archery technique in the Rupununi is the use of bare bow, or traditional shooting.

Transitioning to the new techniques for recurve is usually very difficult to master in a short period of time, but this was not the case for the youths, as their enthusiasm, determination, and sheer skills under the guidance of Mr Singh and assistant coach Shunette Thompson enabled them to master the basic techniques of shooting with recurve bows and arrows.

This archery training exercise was held at Wilson Laurentino's sport ground in St.Ignatius Village on the 21st of April 2022 from 3:30pm to 5:30pm. It is expected that Archery

Guyana's assistant coach Shunette Thompson would continue to work with, and aid in the training to develop these youths to be able to compete nationally.

The youths from St Ignatius who participated in two hours of Archery training exercise are: 1. TED JUAN 18 years old (RH) 2. SAFRAZ ALDIE 15 years old (RH) 3. DEXTAR HENRY 17 years old (RH) 4. JAD JUAN 16 years old (RH) 5. EZIEKEL HERNANDEZ 17 years old (RH) 6. BERT PAUL 17 years old (LH) 7. WAIDAN HERNANDEZ 18 years old (RH) 8. Shunette Thompson 29 years old Coach 9. Mr. Robert Singh Chief coach

the first time. It is a short tour, but we expect great entertainment during what promises to be a wonderful week of quality cricket for the fans in the Netherlands.”

Match schedule for Netherlands v West Indies ODIs at VRA Ground: Tuesday, May 31:

1st ODI, Thursday, June 2: 2nd ODI and Saturday, June 4: 3rd ODI. The final of the IPL is set for May 29, and some of the big West Indian players are playing in the tournament. Captain Nicholas Pooran may have to return home early to travel to the Netherlands.

(Brandon Corlette)

Former WI batsman Philo Wallace surprised by decision to not name T20I vice-captain

F

ormer West Indies batsman Philo Wallace is surprised at the decision by the Cricket West Indies (CWI) selection panel to not name a vice-captain for the T20I team.

Trinidadian left-hander Nicholas Pooran was on Tuesday announced as the West Indies’ new T20 and ODI skipper, following the retirement of former captain Kieron Pollard from international cricket last month.

Barbados batsman Shai Hope has been named ODI vice-captain, but there has been no such announcement for the T20 format.

“Shai Hope is being designated as his deputy for the 50-over squad. There’s no vice-captain for the T20 squad, which I find very interesting,” said Wallace as he appeared on the Mason & Guest radio show in

Philo Wallace

Barbados on Tuesday.

Missing international assignments has been a big problem for West Indian players who are involved in various T20 leagues around the world, and Wallace hopes this doesn’t become an issue with the new Windies skipper.

“His first assignment is away to Holland, and I

hope that we don’t hear that Pooran is going to miss a lot of international cricket after being elevated to this very serious post. I do hope that the selectors would’ve sat down with him via zoom and have a serious discussion with him about what they are expecting of him, and what he’s expecting of himself, and try to pick the best possible squads going forward,” Wallace said.

“All I can say is I wish him all the very best, and I do hope that he can help turn our cricket around and work closely with the players, selection panel, and the coaches to try to lift the quality of our white ball cricket,” Wallace added.

Pooran has so far scored 1121 runs at an average of 40.03 in 37 ODIs, and 1193 runs at an average of 27.74 in 57 T20Is. (Sportsmax)

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022

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

youths get taste of competitive archery West Indies will play three ODIs in Netherlands from May 31

Page 23 A few of the youths with Coach Robert Singh

West Indies to leave for Netherlands tour around May 24 Page 23

-squad to be selected in a few days' time

Elite clubs to participate in GFA Senior League …Set for May 15 start

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