insensitive treatment to crimes P – Chancellor

NEWS15 MONDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM Sexual Offences Courts reduce insensitive treatment to victims of sex crimes – Chancellor

The establishment of specialised courtrooms to handle matters pertaining to sexual offences has significantly reduced the often insensitive treatment and victimisation or re-traumatisation of victims of such crimes, according to Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary Justice Yonette CummingsEdwards.

This was revealed by the woman who stands at the helm of the Judiciary in remarks to commemorate the third anniversary of the Sexual Offences Court in Georgetown which was established on November 13, 2017. Two years later, in 2019, similar courts were established in Berbice and Essequibo.

Justice CummingsEdwards pointed out that as victims of sexual assault seek access to justice, some have with great reluctance, recounted their experiences in court. She noted that some victims have refused to seek justice because of unpleasant experiences.

But apart from the ordeal of being sexually violated, the Head of the Judiciary pointed out that it seems that the instigative and adjudicative environments have a great role to play.

“During the investigative process, victims have had to give statements to the police. If charges are laid, the victim has to relate the same story before the Magistrate’s Court and the public and more often than not before a Judge, jury, members of the public and at all times in front of the accused/defendant.”

Justice CumminsEdwards further noted, “Some virtual complainants have described the giving of statements and testifying as an ordeal. Some have said it is very traumatic. Others have said that they have to relive the harrowing experience even as they seek justice. In some cases, they have opted not to testify to save themselves from embarrassment, shame and ignominy.”

According to her, Parliament, in recognition of this fact, promulgated laws to assist victims as they testify and relive the burden and demands of a trial. The Sexual Offences Act of 2010 makes provision for the establishment of a Sexual Offences Court.

She said that the specialised courtrooms cater to the needs of both victims and defendants and allow for special measures for witnesses to testify.

“This is perhaps the most outward-looking and progressive of all the legislative measures,” the Chancellor related. She explained that this legislative intervention provided for in-camera hearings ie (exclusion of the public from hearings), the anonymity of the victims, especially in reports carried by the media, among others.

Though this provided a glimmer of hope in terms of the victims being confident or not so afraid or ashamed to testify, Justice CummingsEdwards pointed out that it was not enough since the reporting rate of offences was still low compared to the rate of commission.

According to her, the physical settings of the court include the use of screens for vulnerable and intimidated witnesses to prevent them from seeing the accused while giving evidence. She said that the witness must, however, be visible to the Judge, jury and defence counsel.

The courtrooms have an audiovisual live link (or close circuit TV) which enables the witness to give evidence during the trial from outside the court through a televised link to the courtroom. The Chancellor added that the

Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards

trial Judge can direct attorneys to remove their gowns while a vulnerable witness is testifying.

The courtrooms also cater to the examination of a witness through a sworn intermediary to assist the witness to give his or her evidence. The intermediary is allowed to explain questions or answers so far as necessary to enable them to be understood by the witness or person in question.

The Sexual Offences Courts also allow for the use of anatomically correct dolls for taking evidence from children who may have difficulty verbalising the details of their assault.

Justice CummingsEdwards informed that the courts provide for the integration of all social workers and care providers, forensic interviewers and other stakeholders in the criminal justice system to reduce the often insensitive treatment of victims of sexual offences and reduce secondary victimisation or re-traumatisation of victims.

“The input of psycho-social services and counselling by social workers/probation officers and others must be hailed as these personnel understand the dynamics of society and the vulnerability of marginalised groups and can assist both victims and accused persons,” she added.

“The Sexual Offences Court has adopted an integrated approach among all stakeholders in the criminal justice system to improve the adjudication and delivery of justice. This court aims to respond to have faster disposal of cases in an environment that respects the privacy and the dignity of victims. It employs special measures to aid witnesses in giving their testimony.”

The Chancellor noted that the Judiciary is reminded of the fact that “courts exist to do justice between the

WHO officials

litigants, through balancing the interest of an individual litigant against the interest of litigants as a whole in a judicial system that proceeds with speed and efficiency” as noted by former Judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), Michael De La Bastide.

“In so doing we help to enhance social order, maintain the rule of law, ensure due process of law and provide for equal protection of citizens. We are committed to ensuring access to justice and to keeping the wheels of justice turning,” said Justice Cummings-Edwards in concluding.

The Sexual Offences Courts were established through a collaboration between the Supreme Court of Judicature Guyana, UNICEF, Social Protection Ministry and the Jurist Project, all long-standing partners of the court.

Funding for these modern, survivor-friendly courtrooms was donated by

PAHO/WHO reps discuss improved health care for Region 10

Regional Health Officer (RHO), Dr Gregory Harris (right) and Regional Chairman Deron Adams along with Regional Democratic Council Public Relations Officer Leon Roberts (left) and PAHO/

UNICEF.

Representatives of During the discus- During the discourse the Pan American sion with the Regional with the RHO, ways in Health Organisation/ Chairman, topics such as which specialised services World Health Organisation strategies to improve the can be strengthened at hos(PAHO/WHO) recently met level of vaccinations within pitals within the Region with officials of Region 10 the Region were addressed were discussed as well as (Upper Demerara-Berbice) after it was related that the improvement of healthto discuss improving parents were refusing to care services in riverine health-care delivery in the take their babies to be im- communities such as along Region. munised. the Demerara and Berbice

The representatives, Dr This, the Regional Rivers. Luis Codina and Dr Jean Chairman said, has result- The officials also disAlexandre paid courtesy ed in the children having cussed improved access to calls on Regional Chairman to take several vaccines in quality health-care services Deron Adams and Regional succession in order to qual- in these areas, as the RHO Health Officer (RHO), Dr ify for entry into the school cited plans to have doctors Gregory Harris. system. stationed at these locations.

Focus to be placed on strengthening immune systems – RHO

…as Region 10 records over 300 COVID-19 cases

Regional Health the number of active cases Officer of Region 10 reaching more than 70. On (Upper Demerara- Friday, Region 10 recorded Berbice), Dr Gregory Harris its 310th case. has indicated that more em- Regionally, there were phasis would be placed on four persons in institutioneducating persons on good al isolation, 65 in home isonutrition and strengthen- lation, three in institutional ing their immune systems, quarantine while 40 peras the Region has recorded sons were in home quaranover 310 confirmed cases of tine. the novel coronavirus dis- Some of the areas ease (COVID-19). that are being monitored

In dealing with the are Aroaima, Canvas spread of the virus, Dr City, Central MacKenzie, Harris said the Regional Amelia’s Ward, Half Mile, Health Department (RHD) Region 10 Health Officer, Dr Wisroc, Three Friends would be increasing its Gregory Harris Mines, Blueberry Hill, public educational engage- Kwakwani, Christianburg, ments and enforcement ac- According to Dr Harris, Retrieve, Block 22, One tivities. the Department will also Mile, Kara, Coomacka

Further, he stated that be collaborating with stake- Mines, Wismar, and mask distribution exercis- holders. Silvertown. es would continue, and the The most recent statis- Meanwhile, 230 recoverDepartment would seek to tics provided by the Health ies were recorded, with the look into curbing the al- Department showed that death toll remaining at five. leged occurrences of “secret 1300 persons were test- A total of 40 tests were conparties” within Region 10. ed within the Region, with ducted last week.

16NEWS MONDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM Co-operate with COVID-19 grant distribution teams – Dharamlall

Local Government and month. ing the upper flat while an- peaceful and free of abuse. Regional Development That incident has since other was occupying the bot- Every deserving household Minister, Nigel ended up before the court. tom flat. will receive and it is our exDharamlall is imploring It was reported that a su- Based on the guidelines pectation that the distribucitizens to co-operate with pervisor of the COVID-19 which are set out by the tion will be done as quickly the teams distributing cash grant initiative, Molly Government, both house- as possible.” Government’s COVID-19 Balram, was assaulted by a holds are required to sign a Billions of dollars would grants to ensure a peaceful woman at Hopetown, Region “pink form” indicating that be injected into the economy process. Five (Mahaica-Berbice). the property is being occu- by end of the exercise.

The Minister related an The incident occurred in pied by more than one fam- Minister Dharamlall said incident that occurred in the presence of four police of- ily. This information will the Government has seen a Hopetown, Mahaica-Berbice ficers and four other mem- then have to be verified be- tremendous response at the (Region Five), where a dis- bers of the cash grant relief fore the cash grant is distrib- household and regional econtribution clerk was physical- team. Balram was reported- uted. omy levels. ly abused by a recipient of ly hit about her body by the However, the woman was The Government is in its the $25,000 cash grant last woman, who was refusing to Local Government and Regional Development Minister Nigel reportedly refusing to sign final stages of distribution Dharamlall the document and demand- in Regions Three and Five, sign a document which was the team reported that they ed that she be given the with the exercise already required before the $25,000 were encountering problems $25,000. During the process, completed in seven other rewas distributed. with the recipient. she assaulted the supervisor. gions. Balram explained that as The recipient was con- However, Dharamlall Distribution of the cash a supervisor, she was asked tending that the household noted “We would like to en- grants is set to begin next to go to the location after has two families; one occupy- sure the process remains week in Region Four.

2000 persons engage in skills training under BIT since August

The Labour Ministry’s pitality, and childcare. The equate devices, BIT has Board of Industrial training was conducted un- been trying to find ways to Training (BIT) has der the National Training support affected students. trained over 2000 peo- Programme for Youth Meanwhile, more people ple in several occupation- Empowerment (NTPYE) are showing interest in the al fields over the past four and the Single Parent training. months in keeping with the Training Programme ad- “Last year, we engaged Government’s vision to en- ministered by BIT. 2383 persons, and at the sure Guyana has a skilled Maughn noted that the moment, we are above that workforce. programmes are being im- and persons continue to ac-

BIT’s Chief Executive plemented in keeping with cess our programme during Officer (CEO), Richard the COVID-19 measures the pandemic, and I think Maughn, disclosed the num- and take the form of on- more and more persons are ber during a recent inter- line and in-classroom set- understanding the imporview with the Department tings, though classroom tance of acquiring a skill,” of Public Information (DPI) while noting the 1190 persizes have reduced from 20 trainees at any one time, to BIT Chief Executive Officer Richard Maughn Maughn said. The Board of Industrial sons were fully engaged in only seven. tical standpoint…so you Training provides apprentraining programmes coun- “So, what we are do- find now that our lectures ticeship training in keeptrywide over the past fort- ing is blended learning… are working longer hours ing with its mandate as ennight. because of the types of teaching the same number shrined in the Industrial

This includes training in programmes we do. We of beneficiaries,” Maughn Training Act. The agency engineering trade – weld- are a TVET [Technical added. has conducted training in ing and fabrication and Vocational Education and While there have been more than 150 occupationmechanics, appliance re- Training] related agen- some challenges, including al areas over the past years pair, cell phone repairs and cy; you’ll find competen- some students experiencing in keeping with the technimaintenance, garment con- cies for certain areas must difficulties accessing stable cal and workforce needs of struction, cosmetology, hos- be measured from a prac- internet connectivity or ad- the country.

CORONAVIRUS SYMPTOMS People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of (COVID-19) INFORMATION AND GUIDELINES symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms or combinations of symptoms may have COVID-19: HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF?

Cough Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing Or at least two of these symptoms:

People who think they may be affected by coronavirus need to call the Public Health Ministry hotline 227-4986/624-3067 for further advice. They should not go to their GP, A&E, pharmacy or hospital.

If you have come into contact with somebody who may be infected, you may be told to self-isolate. People needing to do so should take "common-sense" steps to avoid close contact with other people. (Adapted from BBC News)

Fever Chills

Repeated shaking with chills

Muscle pain

Children have similar symptoms to adults and generally have mild illness.

NEWS17 MONDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM NDIA to undertake $5M seawall beautification major projects in 2021 project nears completion

The National Drainage Before the start of Phase the responsibility of the and Irrigation Two, there will be technical Georgetown Mayor and Authority (NDIA) will soil studies as well as the City Council to maintake steps to upgrade the structuring and mapping of tain and remodel the seaMahaica Mahaicony Abary- areas for new conservancy walls, Minister Edghill said Agricultural Development dams. However, one of the Guyanese could no longer Authority (MMA-ADA) Scheme in 2021 with the hope that actual work could commence in 2022. Chief Executive Officer environmental concerns is the effects it will have on Moraikobai, an Amerindian reservation in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice). wait for the body to execute the projects that are important and of historical value. There are also plans (CEO) of the body, Frederick Consultancies will start to engage vendors to enFlatts in a recent interview for designs and supervision courage compliance with with the Department of of several market roads, the country’s laws so there Public Information noted including one at Salem, could be efficiency in the that this major undertaking Number 52 Village, on the conduct of business on the could come onstream once left bank of the Mahaica seawall. Government approves the plans. “The current Phase One where you have developed if it becomes a reality. Chief Executive Officer of NDIA Frederick Flatts and right bank of the Mahaicony Rivers. These projects will run alongside the construction Sections of the beautifications works at the Kingston seawall “We want to encourage economic activity, but we cannot encourage lawlessinfrastructure, that’s between the Berbice and the Abary Rivers. For Phase Two, we want to go beyond that and provide proper drainage and irrigation between the Abary and the Mahaica Rivers.” The plans are expected “Under the Phase Two, we have to look at extending our conservancy up to the Mahaica River. We have to look at providing structures to send the water into the various areas, flood relief structures to get rid of the water when the water or rehabilitation of dams in the area. In addition, Regions Five and Six will benefit from pump stations, along with Andrews on the Essequibo Coast. There are also plans to address the issue of shortage of water in The aesthetics of the Kingston seawall is undergoing a remarkable transformation after Government injected $5 million to beautify the popular leisure spot. Plans to beautify the seato benefit rice farmers and in the conservancy is high,” the front section of Black wall were fast-tracked folto an extent rice production Flatts added. Bush Polder. lowing Tourism Awareness Minister Persaud leads Public Works Minister, Bishop Juan Edghill explained “For the benefit of outreach to Mocha Arcadia all the people of Guyana and to ensure that Guyana try initiative targeting single parents and women by honing their existing skills. Minister Persaud said participants are also trained in functional business literacy, sustainable business and micro-enterprise and social issues. “Every initiative the Ministry develops will have that component. So, it’s teaching you not the skills but helping you to create how people are managing during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to determine what additional support could be offered to those in need. “I seized the opportunity today to visit persons in their homes and continue the distribution of hampers which the Ministry would have been doing … we also give out hundreds of hampers at the Ministry is a tourist destination where the people at the current hotels and the new hotels that would be coming on stream can be able to relax, as well as our own Guyanese, Government has to intervene,” Minister Edghill stated. “We were able to complete swiftly, getting all the lights from the Marriott all the way down to Celina’s operational,” he said. The lighting exercise was the first step in the beautification project which is expected to be finalised by December 15. “The bandstand was in a state of disrepair, practically nothing done to it over the last five years. So, we are getting that done.” Minister Edghill added that there are plans to construct permanent restrooms to replace the portable toilets at the seawall. While admitting it is ness at the same time…I am not pleased at all with the encumbrance and the wanton disregard for law and order with people who are vending,” the Minister added. The project is the brainchild of First Lady Arya Ali, who has been working aggressively to enhance leisure spots and public spaces under her National Beautification Project. Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill at the site

Human Services and Social Security Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud

Human Services and Social Security Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud conducted an outreach in Mocha Arcadia on the East Bank of Demerara on Saturday, where she visited and distributed hampers to vulnerable persons in the community.

The Minister was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary, Shannielle Hoosein-Outar and a team of social and welfare officers.

During the exercise, the team educated women in the community on accessing various support and training programmes offered by the Ministry.

Addressing a small group of women following the distribution exercise, Minister Persaud explained that the intention was to ensure the Government’s programmes are accessible to Guyanese and to provide support in the form of care packages to the vulnerable in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Ministry has been implementing a successful garment and cottage indus-

Minister Persaud in discussion with a resident of Mocha on Saturday

a market that is sustainable so that you can have financial independence,” she said.

While the programme focuses on women, Minister Persaud said she was overwhelmed to see a few men also expressing interest.

“Employment is challenging; as you know, the Government has promised to increase the number of persons who are employed and so this is all moving in that direction.”

Moreover, Minister Persaud explained that the intent was also to ascertain because people come to us with all kinds of requests,” Dr Persaud said.

The team also used the opportunity to highlight some of the social issues plaguing the society, especially as it relates to gender-based violence and the role the community could play in addressing it.

Similar exercises were conducted in Bath Settlement and Lovely Lass in Region Five (MahaicaBerbice) and La Parfaite Harmonie in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara). Month in November.

18 MONDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2020 Regional

Venezuelans vote in legislative election dismissed as a sham by US

Venezuelans voted on Sunday in legislative elections set to tighten President Nicolás Maduro’s grip on power and weaken his US-backed rival, Juan Guaidó, who is leading a boycott of the polls he calls a fraud.

Victory will give Maduro’s governing Socialist Party control of an expanded 227-seat National Assembly – the only institution not in its hands.

The election, contested by about 14,000 candidates A voter casts her ballot during elections to choose members of from more than 100 parties, the National Assembly in Caracas, Venezuela comes with the country in a adding the goal was instead aged by the Opposition has deep political and econom- to simply wipe out all sem- brought deep problems to ic crisis – suffocated by run- blance of democracy. the country, especially in away inflation, paralysed in On Sunday, he tweeted the management of its econendless queues for petrol, a picture of an empty poll- omy, and its international lacking water and gas sup- ing station, writing: “How’s relationships.” plies, and afflicted by sud- Maduro’s fraud going? In Opposition control den power cuts. Failed”. since 2016, the legislature

Since November 2019, Guaidó and his allies has prevented Maduro from inflation has reached 4000 plan a week-long plebiscite securing more foreign inper cent. from Monday seeking public vestment for the country’s

“The time has come to support to prolong the man- oil industry. vote for peace, for the coun- date of the current National The European Union, the try, for the future,” Maduro Assembly until “free, verifi- US and several other nasaid in a message to support- able and transparent” elec- tions have already declared ers on the Telegram messag- tions can be held. Sunday’s vote, to which ing application, shortly be- “This is a very import- Maduro invited only sympafore voting began at 06:30h ant election in Venezuela,” thetic international observlocal time (10:30 GMT). Andreina Tarazon, a ers to monitor, a sham.

Guaidó, 37, called for Venezuelan politician from “The results announced a boycott on grounds that the United Socialist Party by the illegitimate Maduro “free and fair” conditions for of Venezuela (PSUV) and regime will not reflect the holding elections do not ex- President of the Centre will of the Venezuelan peoist. for Higher Studies of ple,” US Secretary of State,

“Maduro’s objective isn’t Development and Emerging Mike Pompeo wrote on even to gain legitimacy,” he Economies, said. Twitter on Sunday. (Excerpt told the AFP news agency “Until now the [assem- from Al Jazeera) in an interview last week, bly] which has been man-

Trinidad supermarkets, food outlets to open for 24 hours during Christmas period

Prime Minister, Dr Keith Rowley has announced that supermarkets and food supply outlets will be allowed to open on a 24-hour basis starting on Thursday until January 3.

Rowley, who made the announcement on Saturday during a media conference, said this was being done during the Christmas period.

He also announced that schools would reopen virtually from January 4 and if all goes well, from February

Jamaica’s coronavirus (COVID-19) cases continued to spiral on Saturday with the island recording 76 new cases and in the process surpassing the 11,000 mark.

The Health and Wellness Ministry in its latest bulletin said that Jamaica now has 11 063 of which 3 785 are active.

It said that the new cas8 Standard Five students and students in forms four to six may be able to physically return to school.

Meanwhile, the Trinidad and Tobago Prison Service in an advisory on Sunday, said visits would resume at all the nation’s prisons – with the exception of the Claxton Bay Correctional Facility, as today.

The statement also sought to remind visitors that the safety measures implemented to prevent the spread of COVID-19 remained in full effect.

“The health, safety and well-being of our employees and charges are critical, as are our ongoing attempts to maintain safe and secure environments and public safety,” the advisory stated.

“The Trinidad and Tobago Prison Service continues to adhere to public health ordinances and make decisions accordingly.”

According to the advisory, while in-person visits have resumed, virtual visits with inmates via Zoom will

COVID-19 cases rising in Jamaica

also continue. (CMC) es ranged from 28 days to Wellness Ministry said killed millions of people 85 years old, and that the that a 60-year old man worldwide. country also recorded one from Kingston and St Jamaica now has 136 more death pushing the to- Andrew in the capital was patient recoveries bringing tal to 261. the latest casualty of the the total number of recov-

The Health and virus that has infected and ered cases to 6866. (CMC) Former Uruguayan President Tabare Vazquez dies

Former Uruguayan try of 3.4 million people for ed over the legalisation of President Tabaré 15 years up until elections the State-controlled proVázquez died on last year. duction, distribution and Saturday in Montevideo His son Alvaro Vazquez sale of cannabis. at the age of 80 after suf- said he died at home, in The son of a union leadfering from lung cancer, the presence of family and er who grew up in a workhis son said in a tweet on friends. “On behalf of the ing-class district in the Sunday. family, we want to thank capital, he was popular

The centre-left politi- all Uruguayans for the with Uruguayans for a mix cian and oncologist was love received by him over of pro-business economic President of Uruguay so many years,” he tweet- policies and strong welfare twice in 2005-2010 and ed. programmes which helped 2015-2020, and was diag- Vazquez, who inter- kick-start a decade of ronosed with cancer last year changed terms with Jose bust growth and slashed towards the end of his sec- Mujica since Uruguay’s poverty after a deep criond term. The Broad Front Constitution bans sis in the early 2000s. party he belonged to ran Presidents from serving (Reuters) the cattle-farming coun- consecutive terms, presid-

“Havana syndrome” likely caused by directed microwaves – US report

The mystery illness suffered by US diplomats in Cuba was most likely caused by directed microwave radiation, a US Government report has found.

The report by the National Academies of Sciences does not attribute blame for the directed energy waves.

But it said research into the effects of pulsed radio frequency energy was carried out by the Soviet Union more than 50 The US initially suspected “sonic attacks” had been launched years ago. against its embassy in Havana The illnesses first affected people at the US Embassy in Havana in 2016-17. Staff and some of their relatives complained of symptoms ranging from dizziness, loss of balance, hearing loss, anxiety and something they described as “cognitive fog”. It became known as “Havana syndrome”. The US accused Cuba of carrying out “sonic attacks”, which it strongly denied, and the incident led to increased tension between the two nations. A 2019 US academic study found “brain abnormalities” in the diplomats who had fallen ill, but Cuba dismissed the report. Canada also cut its Embassy staff in Cuba after at least 14 of its citizens reported similar symptoms. The latest study was carried out by a team of medical and scientific experts who examined the symptoms of about 40 Government employees. Many have suffered longstanding and debilitating effects, the report said. “The committee felt that many of the distinctive and acute signs, symptoms and observations reported by (Government) employees are consistent with the effects of directed, pulsed radio frequency (RF) energy,” the report reads. (Excerpt from BBC News)

BVI Governor calls for legislation to investigate people with “unexplained wealth”

British Virgin Islands Governor Augustus Jaspert is calling for legislation that will enable the authorities to investigate individuals who possess “unexplained wealth” locally.

Speaking during a recent media briefing, the Governor said the legislation is needed as several residents have raised concerns about the high number of drug, gun and cash seizures, which have recently taken place in the territory. “These make it very clear that the territory is vulnerable to drug trafficking, serious organised crime and all that comes with it. Criminal investigations are underway, so

Augustus Jaspert

I will not comment on specific investigations, but we cannot ignore the fact that there is a problem here.”

“Drugs and smugglers are able to enter the territory’s closed borders and our people are getting killed. The risks for the territory are significant and we must not let this crime continue to infiltrate our society, our businesses and our way of life and we must not let the profits of crime risk corrupting our institutions,” said Jaspert, who added that he hopes the Cabinet and the House of Assembly will support the legislation.

Meanwhile, Premier Andrew Fahie in response to the Governor’s statement, said plans are being made to enact laws to boost accountability in the territory.

“Your Government has expressed our commitment to strengthening these laws in the Speech from the Throne which was delivered by none other than Governor Jaspert on November 5, 2020.” (Excerpt from CMC)

MONDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2020 19 Around the World

OILNEWS

Andhra Pradesh: India officials investigate mystery illness

Iran prepares to raise Officials in India are investigating the cause of an unidentified illness which led to been freed up in case they are needed. The illness comes as India continues to battle ter complaining of burning eyes. Some of them fainted or suffered bouts of seizures". as the cause after officials visited the areas where people fell sick," he said. "It is some mystery illness oil exports if sanctions more than 140 people being hospitalised over the weekend. the coronavirus pandemic. Local media said the pa tients had taken coronavi Many of those hospitalised recovered and were quickly discharged. and only lab analysis will reveal what it is." However, the eased – State media The patients, from Eluru in Andhra Pradesh, had rus tests, all of which were negative. Andhra Pradesh Health Minister Alla Kali Krishna Government's opposition, Telugu Desam Party, a wide range of symptoms A medical officer at Eluru Srinivas said that blood has called for an enquiry

Iran has instructed its Oil Ministry to prepare installations from nausea to fits and fall- Government Hospital told samples did not find any into the incident, insistfor production and sale of crude oil at full capacity within ing unconscious, doctors The Indian Express: "The evidence of a viral infec- ing that contamination was three months, state media said on Sunday, ahead of a said. people who fell sick, espe- tion. the cause of the mystery possible easing of US sanctions after President-elect Joe Biden A number of beds at Eluru cially the children, sud- "We ruled out water con- illness. (Excerpt from BBC takes office. Government Hospital have denly started vomiting af- tamination or air pollution News)

They quoted President Hassan Rouhani as saying that Iran exported more than two million barrels a day before US President Donald Trump exited the 2015 nuclear deal with six Greek Police detain dozens to stop powers in 2018 and reimposed sanctions that have hit Iran’s economy hard by sharply cutting its vital oil exports. US President-elect Joe Biden, who will take office on Jan march in memory of slain teen20, has said that he would return to the pact and would lift sanctions if Tehran returned to “strict compliance with the nades inside a building. shooting death at the hands nuclear deal”. Another clip showed Police of Police in Exarcheia.

Rouhani said on Sunday that his country was preparing for pushing photojournalists The officer who killed a speedy increase of its oil production, the official IRNA news and other accredited mem- the teenager was convictagency reported. bers of the media. ed of homicide and given a

“The Oil Ministry will take all the necessary steps to prepare The scenes reminded life sentence, but then rethe oil industry’s facilities to produce and sell - proportionate of the heavy-handed tac- leased in 2019, a decision to the available capacity - within the next three months,” IRNA tics adopted by Police last Grigoropoulos’s family are quoted Rouhani as saying. month when they violent- appealing in the courts.

It is estimated that Iran exports less than 300,000 barrels ly broke up a peaceful ral- The country erupted at of oil per day (bpd), compared to a peak of 2.8 million bpd in ly commemorating a 1973 the time of his killing, with 2018. (Excerpt from Reuters) student uprising against students, left-wing activists Greece’s then-military rul- and others taking part in The scientist in charge of the US push for a COVID-19 vaccine said there is "light at the end of the tunnel". Moncef Slaoui said he hoped the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) could COVID: US vaccine chief Slaoui sees “light at end of the tunnel” "The first vaccine shipment will happen on the day after the vaccine is approved." The UK will begin its largest-ever vaccine rollout on Tuesday, after approving the Pfizer vaccine last week. (Excerpt from BBC Police in Greece’s capital have detained dozens of people who defied a coronavirus-related ban to take part in the annual commemoration of the fatal shooting of 15-year-old Alexandros Grigoropoulos by a police officer in 2008. Some 4000 police officers prevent gatherings and will continue to do so until the early hours today. Footage posted online showed riot police on Sunday afternoon entering apartment buildings in Exarcheia, a neighbourhood in central Athens, to flush out would-be protesters. One video showed ofProtesters shout slogans after being detained in Athens during a rally marking the killing of Alexandros Grigoropoulos 12 years ago Insecurity holds up aid to Ethiopia's Tigray region, aid workers say ers. But groups of students, trades unionists and leading leftist politicians, some carrying flowers, tried to defy the measure to pay tribute to Grigoropoulos on the 12th anniversary of his increasingly large protests that at times turned violent. Demonstrations and small-scale clashes with police have taken place on the December 6 anniversary almost every year since. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera) give the go-ahead to a vaccine when it meets this week. But for life to get back to normal by the spring, were deployed on Sunday to ficers throwing stun gre-News) Pakistan: Several COVID patients Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region is too volatile for aid to reach hundreds of thousands of ciAmericans still needed to follow safety measures, he added. The US has seen record infections in recent days, with a daily death toll of S even patients being treated for the coronavirus have died afdie after oxygen supply runs out vilians in need, humanitarian workers said on Sunday, amid reports of persistent fighting, looting and lawlessness. Aid agencies have warned of a lack of food, medication more than 2000. ter one of the largest hos- and body bags in Tigray,

The latest surge in cases pitals in the northwestern where 600,000 people were is putting strain on hospitals, with large parts of the state of California set to enter new lockdown restrictions on Sunday. States are also preparing to distribute a vaccine, with possible approval approaching. The FDA is meeting to discuss the UK-approved vaccine, made by Pfizer, on Thursday and will discuss approval of a second vaccine, made by Moderna, on December 17. Dr Slaoui heads up Operation Warp Speed, the US Government's programme to rapidly produce and delivery COVID-19 vaccines. "Based on the data that I know, I expect the FDA to make a positive decision. But of course, it's their decision," he said. Pakistani city of Peshawar ran out of oxygen supplies. Farhad Khan, spokesman at Khyber Teaching Hospital, said on Sunday that the patients died on Saturday night when the vendor who supplies the hospital with medical oxygen failed to arrive in time. The hospital, the second-largest in the northwestern city of Peshawar, receives its oxygen cylinders from a vendor in Rawalpindi, a city about 190km (118 miles) away, Khan said. Provincial Health Minister Taimur Jhagra tweeted about the incident, saying the hospital’s Board of Governors had been ordered to complete an investigation into the incident and take action “within 48 hours” against those responsible. He promised that “all facts of the case will be made public”. Pakistan, a country of approximately 220 million people, has recorded 58 COVID-19 deaths over the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of confirmed deaths from the virus to 8361. The total tally confirmed cases in Pakistan stands at nearly 416,500 to date. That official number, like other places around the world, is likely somewhat higher in reality due to limited testing. Pakistan has tested about 5.8 million people for the virus, or some 2.6 per cent of the population. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera) Health officials shift a coffin containing the body of a victim who reportedly died from COVID-19, at a hospital in Abbottabad, Pakistan, May 4, 2020 already receiving food aid before a month of fighting began between Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s Government and a rebellious regional force. Abiy declared victory over the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) after federal troops captured the regional capital Mekelle eight days ago, saying not a single civilian had been killed in the offensive. However, a doctor reached in the city on Sunday told Reuters that at least 27 people - including a 4-year-old, a 78-year-old and a family of four - had died in the offensive. Two others were killed and four seriously wounded when residents blocked roads to protest looting by government forces in Mekelle, the doctor said. Medical services in the city were at breaking point, he said. “No light, no fuel for back up generator, no gloves, no anti-pain (medication), no antibiotics, no meals for patients and staff, no bank access - even our ambulance was taken by the soldiers,” the doctor said in a text message, asking that he and his hospital not be named for fear of reprisals. Government officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Claims by all sides have been difficult to verify because most communications are down, and the Government has tightly controlled media and humanitarian access since the conflict began on Nov 4. (Excerpt from Reuters) Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed speaks during a question and answer session with lawmakers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, November 30, 2020

ARCHIE

DILBERT

PEANUTS

CALVIN AND HOBBES

SUDOKU

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

ARIES (March 21April 19)

TAURUS

(April 20May 20)

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

CANCER (June 21July 22)

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

AQUARIUS

(Jan. 20- Feb. 19)

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

Don’t let uncertainty get you down; initiate what you want to do wholeheartedly, and don’t look back. It’s time to take control and bring about the changes that will lead to a better future.

Emotional spending will turn out to be costly. Size up what’s reasonable, and look for practical ways to reach your goal. You can accomplish plenty if you take the steps necessary to ensure success.

Set your sights on a reasonable goal. Take a look at what others are doing, and ask experts for advice when in doubt. Make decisions based on facts, not emotions or peer pressure.

Fix up your surroundings to accommodate your lifestyle. A unique joint venture will turn out to be lucrative as well as give you an emotional boost. Romance is favored.

Do something that requires energy, intelligence and skill. Follow your heart and do your own thing. A change someone makes will cause emotional tension. Don’t lose sight of your goals.

A change to your environment or surroundings will help you realize what you want. Sum up your alternatives, and take steps to improve your life. Don’t dismiss an opportunity.

Living in the past will be your demise. Focus on moving forward. Discuss your plans with someone close to you. A common goal will promote a better connection with someone you love.

Look for alternative routes that will help you channel your skills and energy into something more suitable. Use your imagination. Romance is featured.

Take the initiative. Invest time and energy into setting up a routine that helps you continue to strive for positive goals, better relationships and a brighter future.

Improve your life by making your surroundings comfortable and convenient. Refuse to let an emotional matter escalate when all it takes is understanding and kindness to solve a problem.

If you want to make a change, update your resume to suit the current job market. Be bold, and discuss your ideas and concerns. Don’t take a risk with your health.

Be careful who you share your ideas or beliefs with to avoid a situation that will put you in a vulnerable position. Focus on how you can make a difference, not a disturbance.

Zaha and Benteke punish 10-man West Brom

Wilfred Zaha again underlined his importance to Crystal Palace as they took advantage of the controversial dismissal of Matheus Pereira to claim their first points in three games with a rout at West Brom.

Forward Zaha had missed Palace’s previous two matches – both of which ended in defeat – after testing positive for

COVID-19, but quickly found his feet again at The Hawthorns with a typi-

Barcelona winger Ousmane Dembele has been ruled out of Tuesday’s Champions League home game against Juventus due to a hamstring injury, the La Liga club said on Sunday.

Barcelona did not indicate how long the France international, who came on as a substitute in Saturday’s 2-1 defeat in Cadiz, would be sidelined. “Tests on Sunday morning, December 6, have shown that first-team player Ousmane Dembele has a hamstring elongation,” Barcelona said in a statement.

“He will, therefore, not be considered for selection and the evolution of the cally lively attacking display that included two goals and an assist.

It was from his low cross that Darnell Furlong diverted the ball into his own net to give the visitors the lead and his whipped finish into the far corner that restored the advantage after Conor Gallagher’s low,

Barcelona’s Dembele injures hamstring again

driv - en equaliser. injury will determine his availability.”

The 23-year-old, who missed most of the 201920 campaign with a hamstring problem, has scored four goals in 12 appearances for Barcelona this season, including three in the Champions League.

Ronald Koeman’s side, who have already qualified for the knockout stages, lead Group G with 15 points and will finish top if they avoid defeat against Juventus. (Reuters)

Between these two Zaha contributions, though, came the incident that completely al- tered the complexion of the game – Pereira’s r e d card. I t seemed unclear, even after multiple replays, whether the Baggies forward intended his boot to make contact with Patrick van

Aanholt’s midriff while on the ground, but referee Paul Tierney had no doubt after viewing the incident on the pitch-side monitor.

Prior to that, Albion had been the better side with momentum behind them after Gallagher’s leveller, which came shortly after Furlong had gone

New Zealand A won by an innings and 143 runs against the West Indies A in the first fourday First-Class match.

After solid batting efforts from both sides in the first innings on a flat deck, the match quickly unravelled for West Indies A in their second dig.

A wrist injury to West Indies A left-hander Raymon Reifer hastened a dramatic denouement to the First-Class

West Brom are the first team to score an own goal and receive a red card in the first half of a Premier League game since Tottenham against West Ham in May 2014

close to making amends for his own goal with a header that came back off the bar.

But holding out for almost an hour with 10 men proved impossible, and Zaha sparked a fixture at Bay Oval.

Three down overnight, West Indies A had resumed their second innings on the final morning at Bay Oval at 53-3. Another quick strike by Scott Kuggeleijn (3-18), followed by Nathan Smith’s removal of opening batsman Nicholas Pooran on 35, brought Reifer to the middle at 85-5.

However, after having faced six balls, Reifer retired scoreless, seemingly Palace goal-fest. Christian Benteke headed the first of his two goals of the afternoon from a Van Aanholt cross just four minutes after his strike partner’s fine finish.

Zaha was on hand again troubled by his left wrist after an injury in the field the previous day. With Oshane Thomas also unable to bat, New Zealand A required just the eight wickets, and achieved the victory before lunch, the West Indies finishing at 109 for eight in just 36 overs and New Zealand A winning by an innings and 143 runs in a fierce finish.

The wickets were shared around the NZ A attack, Volts teammates Jacob Duffy (2-27) and Nathan Smith (2-17 off six overs) each pocketing a brace. The second First-Class match between the A sides begins at Saxton Oval, Nelson on Friday, December 11. (NZ Cricket) to tap in from close range to make it 4-1 following a driving run into the box from Eberechi Eze before Benteke added the icing with a lovely finish on the

West Indies A rocked for 109 all out in innings defeat

SCOREBOARD

WI 1st Innings 322 all out NZ 1st Innings 574 all out WI 2nd Innings 109 all out S Moseley c †Cleaver b Duffy 5 BA King c Seifert b Kuggeleijn 22 N Pooran c McConchie b Smith 35 R Powell (c) c †Cleaver b Kuggeleijn 0 KR Mayers c Duffy b Kuggeleijn 11 J Da Silva † not out 15 RA Reifer retired hurt 0 FA Allen c Bracewell b Smith 5 R Shepherd c Chapman b Duffy 11 HR Walsh c & b Sodhi 1 O Thomas absent hurt Extras (nb 4) 4 TOTAL (36 Ov, RR: 3.02, 177 Mts) 109 Fall of wickets: 1-6 (Shayne Moseley, 1.2 ov), 2-53 (Brandon King, 12.1 ov), 3-53 (Rovman Powell, 12.4 ov), 4-68 (Kyle Mayers, 18.5 ov), 5-85 (Nicholas Pooran, 25.1 ov), 5-85* (Raymon Reifer, retired not out ), 6-93 (Fabian Allen, 31.1 ov), 7-106 (Romario Shepherd, 34.6 ov), 8-109 (Hayden Walsh, 35.6 ov)

BOWLING O-M-R-W

DAJ Bracewell 9-0-37-0 JA Duffy 10-3-27-2 SC Kuggeleijn 8-1-18-3 IS Sodhi 3-0-10-1 NG Smith 6-2-17-2

turn. (BBC Sport)

Brian Ramphal Under-19 trial match

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Providence Gated Green Acres House AC Hot and Cold Furnished 5 Bedroom, Swimming Pool $3,000 U.S Call Pete’s Real Estate: 623Fawaz Gafoor made an attractive 47 Marvan Prashad looked Aaron Beharry and Tyreese Sealy claimed three wickets each 7805, 223-6218, 231-7423, 227elegant on the opening day 2487, 226-5546, 226-9951 Story and photoS by brandon Corlette Former West Indies Under-15 batsman Rampertab Ramnauth scored the lone fifty in the Berbice Under-19 trial match at the Albion Community Centre Cricket Club. In the second 50-over triseven overs and Tyreese Sealy took 3-20 in five overs. In reply, Seon Glasgow’s XI scored 129-9 in 40 overs. Batting at the top, Ramnauth stroked five fours in his top knock of 54 while Jermey Sandia and Sealy scored 11 and nine respectively. In the first match played on Saturday, Marvan Prashad top-scored with an attractive 41 while Shamar Angel made 25. Glasgow’s XI posted 155 all out in 49.2 overs. Seon Glasgow (21); Abdul Ramsammy (21); Ricardo Ramdhol (18) and Leon Swammy (17) were among the runs. Angel, Jonathan McDonald had one wicket each before rain ended the day. Leslie Solomon, the selector present at the venue after the trial match was completed, confirmed that the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) will trim the training squad to 26 players who will have another trial match. This 26-man squad is Courida Park E.C.D 4 Bedroom House Furnished AC Hot and Cold $4,000 U.S Call Pete’s Real Estate: 623-7805, 223-6218, 231-7423, 227-2487, 226-5546, 226-9951. Main St. Land Size 20,000 Sq Feet and Building Price $6 million U.S Call Pete’s Real Estate: 623-7805, 223-6218, 231-7432, 227-2487, 226-5546, 226-9951. land for Sale al match, Gevon Schultz’s XI, batting first, scored 128 all out in 41 overs. Blairmont’s Fawaz Gafoor scored a breezy 47, which included seven thumpRampersaud, Gourav Ramesh, Akash Heeralall and Izam Shazam had two wickets each. In reply, Schultz’s XI made 110-4 in 32 overs. In expected to be announced on Tuesday and the final Berbice Under-19 squad announcement will follow. The final squad will have training sesEccles Industrial Area Land : 60,000 Sq Feet with Office and Shed Price $1.7 million U.S Call Pete’s Real Estate: 623-7805, 223-6218, 2317432, 227-2487, 226-5546, 226ing fours and he pulled one six addition to Prashad’s classy sions ahead of the proposed 9951 off the bowling of Isai Thorne. Zeynul Ramsammy scored 19 while Lloyd David scored 12. Aaron Beharry claimed 3-17 in Shamar Angel played a fighting knock on day one 41*and Angel’s 25, Gafoor made 15 and Rampersaud contributed 10. Swammy, Isiah Anderson and Delshawn Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Under-19 tournament, tentatively set for mid-January 2021. Bachelors Adventure E.C.D Sea Wall Side 1.2 Acres $12 million Call Pete’s Real Estate: 623-7805, 231-7432, 227-2487, (E.C.D), 226546 Land : 226-9951 Jason Holder: It’s time we started Good Hope Public Road Size 150 x 160 $1 million U.S Call Pete’s Real Estate: 623-7805, 223-6218, 2269951, 226-5546, 231-7432, 227delivering and stopped talking 2487, Regent St. Land Price $ 2.1 million U.S Call Pete’s Real Estate: 6237805, 223-6218, 226-9951, 226West Indies’ Captain Jason Holder has called on his teamyou spend (at the crease) the easier it becomes. There’s a lot of things we need to look through this Test match, but I think he’ll be going home after this to be with his fam5546, 231-7432, 227-2487 Ogle Airport Road Corner Land Size 21,000 Sq Ft with Building on mates, particularly the bats- at, we need answers and we ily,” Holder said. “Shane: it Price $1.3 million U.S Call Pete’s men, to “look in the mirror” following their heaviest deneed them quickly.” West Indies will play we’re not quite sure the extent of his finger injury at Real Estate: 623-7805, 223-6218, 226-9951, 226-5546, 231-7432, 227-2487 feat against New Zealand in their second and final Test of the moment. He’s been comthe first Test, by an innings this series from December 11 plaining of a lot of pain. PUPPIES FOR SALE and 134 runs. in Wellington, but they are Looking pretty doubtful for Mix Breed Puppies For sale

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The top five totalled 100 “Credit to Jermaine we’ve come up against here Pooran made 46 and 35 in Story with Rent Income Price $5.2 runs between them across Blackwood and Alzarri in Hamilton, but I still think “Kemar, a four-day match against million U.S Call Pete’s Real Estate: two innings and Holder did Joseph to bring some re- a little bit more application thank- New Zealand A while 623-7805, 223-6218, 231-7423, not mince words at the post- spectability towards our bat- needs to be shown, partic- ful - Da Silva kept wicket. 227-2487, 226-5546, 226-9951 match presentation, saying the top order needed to stand ting, but quite frankly our top order just needs to stand ularly up front. I think up front we’ve got to work a litly for us he (ESPNcricinfo) SPIrItUalIty up. up.” tle bit harder. pushed Having Problems with Marriage/ “I think it’s time we start delivering and stopped talking,” Holder said. “We’ve One of the asks Holder had of his batsmen was to be prepared to shelve certain “We’ve seen how the New Zealand bowlers, like any other bowlers in the world, Love Relationships, Health, Job, Money, Removal of Obstacles of any kind. Meet me once and change your life. Address : talked a lot; we’ve promised shots early in their innings, they tend to get flat as part- Georgetown and Grove Call 688a lot. I think it’s a matter and sell their wickets more nerships build. We just need 2135 for us to all look ourselves in the mirror and understand dearly. “In all honesty, we’re still to be able to understand that, fight a lot harder, keep them Are you suffering from Health, Money, Job, Marriage that we’ve got to fight a lit- scratching our heads,” he out there a little bit longer. Relationships problems, Removal tle harder. We’re just prob- said. “Leading up to the first Even if we give up one or two of Blockage/Evil Spirits, Clear ably throwing the towel in Test, I felt the preparation scoring shots that we feel as Negative Energy, Permanent too easily, just being hon- was good. I think our prepa- though we can count on to Protection. Address : Vlissengen est. We’ve just got to turn it ration has always been re- pounce on early. The longer Road, Kitty. Call: 696-1857 for Captain Jason Holder appointment.

GCB Tropical Springs O-40 T20 tournament... Jai Hind Jaguars brush Bel Air Rubis to clinch semi-final spot

Story and photoS by brandon Corlette

It was another dominant display by the undefeated Jai Hind Jaguars who cruised to a six-wicket win over Bel Air Rubis Ultra Tec, with 2.5 overs to spare, in pursuit of 128.

After a 30-minute delay

The unstoppable Anil Beharry was in six-hitting mode again

to the start owing to Culture, Youth and Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr’s visit, Bel Air Rubis won the toss and took first strike, scoring 127-8 in 20 overs with Arthur Duke top-scoring with 46.

Narine Deonarine, releasing his off-spin from a high point, took two early wickets to unsettle the Bel Air Rubis team at 3-2. The Jai Hind bowlers kept it tight, but Richard Ramdeen (22) structured a rebuilding effort.

Some sharp fielding saw Jai Hind making inroads in the middle as Bel Air were reduced to 52-6 in 12 overs. Then, batting at number six, Duke opened his arms, slamming four sixes in his entertaining 46. The well-built Duke forged a 59-run partnership with Oslyn Batson (26*). Deonarine was the pick of the bowlers with 2-7 in his three overs while Deofrakdash had 2-17. Michael Chinsammy had 1-23.

In reply, Jaguars lost Subramani Mangali for one, but a 72-run second-wicket partnership between opener Imran Husain and Kemraj Sumair kept the Jaguars on target. Hussain, who displayed great sweeping skills, slammed four boundaries and two sixes in his 45.

At 86-4 in the 15th over, the red-hot Anil Beharry came to the crease and took the bowlers to the cleaners with his clean power hitting. Captain Sumair played a responsible innings of 39 not out, and Beharry struck a 10-ball unbeaten 29 to lead Jai Hind into the semi-finals. Chandrite Jeenarine was expensive with 2-34 in three overs.

At the Everest Cricket Club Ground, West Demerara Masters posted 174-7 in 20 overs. Batting for the entirety of his team’s innings, Elroy Fernandes contributed 61 runs, stroking six sixes and three fours. Fazeer Khan, on the bowler’s end, returned figures of 2-13 in three overs.

Imam Bacchus’s team quickly fell at the hands of the WD Masters. Boodram Sugrim, with 3-12, was a force to be reckoned with. Eager to restrict the opposition and lend a helping hand to his colleague, Steve Haripal (2-18) also played an instrumental role. Ramnarine was the sole batsman to attain a reasonable score, hitting two sixes and one four to top his contribution at 20 runs. His team crumbled in 19.4 overs in which they scraped 84 runs, having exhausted their line-up.

Over at the Enmore Community Centre Ground, WD Mavericks, in a reduced 14over affair, made 93-7, which they hoped would be an uphill battle for their opponents to get. Lalta Sukhnanan struck 45, with David Albert, the only other major contributor, sweeping 14 runs under his

Ramson fulfils promise: Jai Hind receives 6 floodlights

Narine Deonarine celebrates a wicket after his top bowling spell

name. The Reliance bowlers – namely Premnauth Persaud (2-17); Elroy Stephney (2-18) and Trevis Simon (2-23) – were aggressive in their efforts, to contain the batsmen, and ultimately the score they would have to chase.

In reply, Reliance made 69-8 in their allotted 14 overs. Top scorer Teddy Manchal made 13 before being adjudged leg-before off Devindra Ramdehol (1-20), and his colleagues, Elroy Stephney (12) and Ramesh Narine (11), were also adjudged leg-before off Sohan Bedasi, who was one of the most dominant bowlers, returning figures of 4-4. Mohan Chaitram also sent two batsmen on their way for 18 runs as Mavericks won by 24 runs.

The second scheduled match at Enmore featured West Berbice battling Regal Masters. West Berbice won the toss and elected to bat. Their innings ended at 81-7 in the allotted 20 overs.

Opening batsmen Rajban Hemraj (29) and Trevor Crawford (26) contributed the most significant scores for their respective teams. On the bowling end, Chien Gittens (29) collected one wicket more than his peers.

Regal Masters raced to their target, which was achieved in just 9.1 overs to hand themselves a win by nine wickets. Positioning his team for victory was Gittens with 48 runs, before Hemraj (1-18) sent him on his way. Anthony Ifill and Roy Persaud together led the way to victory, contributing 21 and 8 runs respectively.

The semi-finals will see West Demerara Masters battling West Demerara Mavericks while Jai Hind Jaguars will face Regal Masters. The proposed dates for the semi-final is Saturday, December 12; the venue will be announced at a later date. The grand final is set for Sunday, December 13.

Briton John clocks best time at Linden time trial

Minister of Culture Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr. with members of Jai Hind Cricket Club and

represenatives of Region 6 (Brandon Corlette photo)

Culture, Youth and to the Cricket Club for the The Jai Hind Cricket Sport Minister project. Ramson Jr was im- Club was formed in 1940. Charles Ramson Jr pressed with the indepen- Currently, the Club is not fulfilled his promise, do- dent work done at Jai Hind. a member of the Berbice nating six floodlights to Speaking on behalf Cricket Board, but the venthe Jai Hind Cricket Club, of the Cricket Club, Anil ue is known as one of the which is located behind the Beharry expressed grati- best grounds around deAlbion Police Station. tude to the Culture, Youth spite the small outfield.

On a bright Sunday and Sport Ministry for ful- A host of national and inmorning, Minister Ramson filling the promise. Beharry ternational players who Jr received a warm wel- also noted that the Club hail from Berbice use the come from the Jai Hind would repay the Ministry beautiful outfield and pitch family. He disclosed that by taking good care of the for practice. (Brandon in addition to the six flood- floodlights and using the Corlette) lights, $800,000 was sent equipment to the fullest.

Flashback: Briton John dominated the roadways in 2019 (Brandon Corlette file photo)

We Stand United top the top three junior boys. The Guyana Cycling cyclist Briton John In the female category, Federation was granted stopped the clock Clivecia Spencer (26.38); permission by the relevant at 32 minutes and 34 sec- Suzanne Hamilton (28.38) authorities to host these onds, emerging as the best and Denise Jeffery (29.29) races. During the opening cyclist in the time trials were the top three finish- leg, all cyclists were reheld in Linden on Sunday. ers in that category after quired to undergo a tem-

Team Coco Jamual John 8.5 miles. perature test and wear a clocked in at 34 minutes The event was organ- face mask, which had been six seconds and Marlon ised by the Linden Bauxite made available. SocialWilliams, who won the first Flyers Cycling Club and distancing protocols were time-trial event, stopped commenced at the KD&J also observed. the clock at 34 minutes 30 Supermarket before head- The third and final time seconds. ing onto the highway, for a trial will pedal off in Berbice

In the veterans’ cate- total distance of 13.5 miles. on December 13. The time gory, Sehon Hubbard from The race was made pos- trial will start at 09:00h in Team Evolution clocked in sible through the kind front of Benjamin’s Sport at 36 minutes 18 seconds compliments of KD&J and Fitness Centre at while Alex Mendes finished Supermarket, Bolo’s Fyrish, proceed along the after 37 minutes. Kwame Variety & Furniture Store, Number 19 road, and end Ridley stopped the clock at Ele’s Trading & Hardware, at GuyOil gas station at 37 minutes and 37 seconds. Benard’s Variety Store, Palmyra. Persons who are

Meanwhile, in the ju- Well Point Service Station, interested in participating nior category, which tra- Country Grill, Semple & in the Berbice leg are inversed 8.5 miles, Aaron Sons Hardware & Variety vited to contact Randolph Newton (24.06); Alexander Store, O&O Construction Roberts on 628-8211. Leung (24.11) and Mario Service, and Sandgate (Brandon Corlette) Washington (25.20) were Hardware.