Guyana Times - Monday March 1, 2021

CJIA makes $1.3B profit for 2019 P11

— passenger service fees rake in $1.7B Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 4574

THE BEACON OF TRUTH MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021

Guyana only borrowing member country to record economic growth – CDB — 19 other countries in region rack up increased debts See story on page 3

Guyana secures new rice markets in eastern Europe — as Budget 2021 lays out aggressive plans to assist rice farmers

PRICE

$80 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Toddler critical after father reverses P13 vehicle Probe P9 launched into missing $300M at GPF

Page 7

Active COVID-19 cases drop P14 to 418 as 35 new cases recorded

Work must begin by last quarter of this year – Min Edghill

Traffic cop P14 injured after speeding car turns turtle

ECD-EBD Bypass road

Page 7

Page 9

Pastor killed by Major Crimes speeding Unit dispatched minibus to Lethem to in WCB investigate jail Page 10

break – Crime Chief

— says ranks who were on duty under close arrest

Hadfield Street man arrested after hijacking motorcycle P13 at D’Urban Park ECD man critical after being P13 stabbed by teen during argument Woman in P8 custody after robbing miner in hotel room

2 NEWS

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

2 robbery suspects, 3 others arrested during Police operations in city

T

wo men who were implicated in several armed robberies were among five persons arrested during cordon and search operations in several areas in Georgetown on Sunday morning.

The areas targeted were Alberttown, Kitty, A, D and C Fields Sophia, Plum Park, Guyhoc Park, East Front Road, Back Circle, Albouystown, Leopold Street, Stabroek Market, Rasville and Broad Street,

Charlestown.

During the operations, several drug blocks, houses, motor vehicles and persons were searched.

As a result, a 44-year-old clothes vendor of Kitty was arrested with 63 grams of cannabis. He is expected to be charged with trafficking in narcotics.

In addition, a 20-yearold vendor of Rasville was also nabbed with 11.9 grams of ganja in his possession while a 40-year-

A quantity of ganja and a motorcycle that were seized during the raid

old businessman of Charlestown was also arrested for narcotics possession.

Police have also arrested a 21-year-old and a 24-year-old of Sophia, Greater Georgetown, for armed robbery.

In addition, three motorcycles (CB1, Honda Wave and a 150 Suzuki), one pedal cycle and a quantity of tobacco leaves (flonto) were also seized during the operations.

Gun, ammo drop from pillion rider during high-speed chase

T

he Police have retrieved a .32 pistol containing one live round of ammunition after it was disposed of by two men riding an XR motorcycle in the vicinity of Sophia, Greater Georgetown.

Based on reports received, on the day in question, a mobile patrol observed the black motorcycle with the driver and a pillion rider. At the time, there were no registration plates on the motorcycle and as such, the Police gave chase with the aim of intercepting same.

In the process, an object reportedly fell from the pillion

The gun that reportedly fell from the pillion rider

rider and landed on the roadway. The ranks immediately stopped their vehicle and collected the fallen object, which turned out to be the pistol.

The two men, however, made good their escape into Plum Park, Sophia. The firearm was lodged as investigations continue.

NEWS

3

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Demerara – Monday, March 1 – 04:30h – 06:00h and Tuesday, March 2 – 04:30h – 06:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Berbice –Monday, March 1 – 05:50h – 07:20h and Tuesday, March 2 – 06:25h – 07:55h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Expect sunshine during the day. There will be partly cloudy skies at night. Temperatures should range between 21 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to Northerly to North North-Westerly between 2.23 metres and 4.91 metres.

High Tide: 06:03h and 18:23h reaching maximum heights of 2.84 metres and 2.87 metres.

Low Tide: 11:56h reaching a minimum height of 0.34 metre.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2021

LOTTERY NUMBERS F

08 09 15

19 21 23

FREE TICKET

26 Bonus Ball

DAILY MILLIONS

02 10 15 16 25 LUCKY 3

5

4

4

4

Afternoon Draw

0

3

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

06

11

13

14

15 17 20

PAY DAY

SUPER PAY DAY FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021

01 02

07 08

13

11

04 06

16 18

21

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

COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Change %

Crude Oil

$66.13/barrel

-1.13

Rough Rice

$234.99/ton

-0.38

London Sugar

$468.00/ton

-2.76

Live Spot Gold

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1738.60

$1739.60

Low/High Change

$1734.50 +3.00

$1843.30 0.17%

Guyana only borrowing member country to record economic growth – CDB — 19 other countries in region rack up increased debts

G

uyana, with its budding oil and gas industry, has been spared the economic pain suffered by many of its regional counterparts.

According to the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), Guyana, unlike 19 other countries, did not record any increase in its debt to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio.

This was revealed in the CDB’s 2020 Review and 2021 Outlook Regional Report, which was recently released. In the report, the bank notes that on average, the regional debt to GDP ratio increased from 66.5 per cent to 79.5 per cent among 19 Borrowing Member Countries (BMCs).

In Barbados for instance, the debt reached almost 150 per cent of GDP. According to the CDB, regional debt is likely to con-

riculture sector. While sugar production fell, rice production increased.

During his recent reading of Budget 2021, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh had reported that the country’s non-oil economy contracted by 7.3 per cent with sectors such as fishing, mining, manufacturing, forestry, and services recording declines.

While the agriculture, fishing, and forestry sector expanded by 4.1 per cent, the sugar-growing one contracted by 3.7 per cent, with production falling to a low 88,868 tonnes.

The rice-growing sector grew by 4.8 per cent, with paddy production reaching 1,057,580 tonnes in 2020.

With respect to the production of other crops, despite excessive rainfall in November and December, this sector is estimated

The Caribbean Development Bank

tinue rising to 81.5 per cent of GDP in 2021, before it eventually falls in countries like Barbados and Jamaica.

Guyana, which is also a BMC, was able to avoid this altogether and was, in fact, the only BMC surveyed by the CDB to record economic growth for 2020, with 26 per cent. The economies of the other BMCs contracted by 12.8 per cent on average due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the CDB, Guyana’s economic growth was driven solely by the start-up in first oil, though this growth was still lower than expected due to the declining oil prices that were brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic last year.

And while the former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) has frequently pointed to this economic growth as evidence of them managing a healthy economy, it has been pointed out by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) and by economic experts that oil is not a job retentive industry and that the regression of the non-oil economy is cause for serious concern.

Indeed, the CDB noted that Guyana saw mixed performances from the ag-

to have grown by 6.6 per cent in 2020. The Finance Minister explained that the COVID-19 pandemic would have resulted in in-

Guyana’s economic resilience was driven by the oil sector

creased demand for many fruits, particularly citrus.

Meanwhile, the livestock sector is estimated to have grown in 2020, recording an increase of 5 per cent. This was driven by poultry, egg and beef production, which are estimated to have grown by 10.4 per cent, 34.1 per cent, and 3.4 per cent, respectively.

The fishing industry contracted by 17.1 per cent while the forestry sector contracted by 8.1 per cent.

Regarding fishery, he said the decline was largely a result of fewer vessels going out to fish due to lower domestic and external demand stemming from the pandemic With respect to forestry, the Finance Minister explained that the poor performance is primarily driven by an 11.8 per cent decline in sawn wood production, reflecting the slowdown in construction activities.

Manufacturing contracted by 8.6 per cent,

construction by 6.3 per cent, and services by 9.4 per cent. Meanwhile, the overall balance of payments recorded a surplus of US$60.6 million in 2020, compared to a deficit of US$48.9 million recorded in 2019.

With the measures announced in the 2021 budget, the Finance Minister had said Guyana’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is projected to grow by 20.9 per cent, with the non-oil economy growing by 6.1 per cent.

However, he explained that the projection is premised on the assumption that a reopening of the economy takes place with COVID-19 restrictions being gradually lifted and is, therefore, subject to significant downside risks.

Similarly, the agriculture, fishing and forestry sector is expected to expand by 5.6 per cent while the mining and quarrying sector is projected to grow by 39.1 per cent.

4

guyanatimesgy.com

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021

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

For a Catalytic Entrepreneurial State

S

ince independence, there have been two sets of concerns, not entirely unconnected, raised about economic distribution in Guyana – and both have highlighted the issue of distributive justice. Firstly, there have been concerns about the overall economic policy of the Governments favouring their ethnic constituencies at the expense of the “other”. Charges of “discrimination and racism” are once again being made by elements in the African Guyanese community, echoing the similar cries of the Indians during the People’s National Congress’s rule between 1964 and 1992 and 20152020.

Secondly, there has been the historical complaint about uneven development geographically – specifically, that Demerara in general, and Georgetown in particular, receives a disproportionate share of the national developmental thrust.

And while the rural communities are most underdeveloped, we yet again hear about “partiality”, as the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government attempts to rectify the situation.

These complaints, which are grounded on a perception that justice is not being served, have been some of the main fuels to the ethnic fire. Development is seen as a zero-sum game.

What we have seen is that in severely-divided societies, governmental policies will not be judged by intentions but by results and even in that case, results will be judged by very subjective criteria. Certain policies, which may appear facially neutral, can have differential ethnic impact. Take for instance, a key plank in the economic strategy pushed by the multilaterals – agricultural development in Guyana. From a standpoint of comparative advantage, this makes sense for Guyana.

But because of differential economic specialisation, as was demonstrated in the ‘60s, there will be ethnic concerns raised. It will be futile to argue that it is the most “economically feasible” choice. The economic policy of the Government is, therefore, very important in securing justice, and ethnic peace in Guyana.

The Government will have to create the double-digit growth rates across our non-oil economy in all the regions that is necessary to give us the cushion and breadth of development to “raise all ethnic and regional boats”. And we emphasise the “non-oil economy”, since we will only be receiving 14.5% of the revenues from the oil industry. Most of those revenues will end up in the oil companies’ home countries so we should not become too excited about the touted astronomical growth rates that will supposedly “lead the region”.

To stimulate such a necessarily high growth rate, the creation of a Catalytic Entrepreneurial State (CES) is proposed.

Guyana, as with many other Third World States, had a disastrous experience with State involvement in development during the ‘70s and ‘80s, and this has obviously soured the enthusiasm for dirigiste policies. Back in December President Irfaan Ali announced the launching of a “Wales Development Authority, (which) will be tasked with the development of not only agriculture but agro-industries, processing facilities, manufacturing, industrial development and this facility would see special incentives. These include tax and fiscal incentives aimed at attracting investment”.

The incentives are intended to encourage the Private Sector to make the necessary investments. But if these will mostly be coming from “outside”, we will not receive the full benefits. In that case, the Government itself should get involved by utilising capital from the Natural Resource Fund. However, there are already protests from some quarters about the Government’s proposed intervention to go ahead with the “gas-to-shore” project even though the goal is to cut the price of electricity by 85 per cent.

In our estimation, however, the State’s involvement must go beyond mere infrastructural development and consider getting into downstream activities in the O&G industry. For instance, since the natural gas to be brought onshore can be used to manufacture urea, which is needed for our sustainable agricultural development, the Government should consider the feasibility of setting up such a manufacturing facility.

The recently departed People’s National Congress (PNC)led Government evidently agreed with the neo-liberal position that providing a stable macro-environment will attract enough investment to generate high economic growth. Unfortunately, while necessary, this approach is not sufficient to move us “from Third World to First”.

Stuttgart Ballet company dancers Elisa Badenes and Friedemann Vogel take part in performance “Social Distance Stacks” of conceptual artist Florian Mehnert at the John Cranko School in Stuttgart, Germany

ERC failed to take action when it should pre- and post-March 2, 2020 (Part 2)

Dear Editor, Point “Q” of the Commission’s constitutional mandate speaks to “identify and analyse factors inhibiting the attainment of harmonious relations between ethnic groups…and to make recommendations”.

Political developments that lead to discontent are major historical factors. The postMarch 2, 2020 election period was no different and, in my view, should not have been ignored in the context of the Commission’s role in promoting harmony.

Permit me to state instances when the Commission should have acted but it didn’t.

1. Having investigated employment practices at GECOM and from its own findings, the Commission, despite calls by a few Commissioners, never recommended the reinstatement of Mr Vishnu Persaud as the DCEO despite its findings that he was the most qualified candidate and that he was the first candidate in the history of GECOM who attained the highest score but not appointed.

2. As a result of the successfully passed December 21, 2018 NCM and with Parliament not agreeing to an extension of the constitutional 90-day timeframe, the elections were held a year after they were constitutionally due. While court cases ensued, the Commission in a September 18, 2019 Press Release, urged constitutional adherence and a swift resolution to the then political impasse; that was 9 months after the NCM; 6 months after the constitutional due date for the elections. Before that Press Release, it was felt by some Commissioners that the Commission cannot tell GECOM what to do. While that may be so, nothing in my view prevented the Commission before September 18, 2019, as disquiet grew, from calling for the said constitutional adherence with regard to the holding of elections within the constitutionally stipulated 90-day timeframe taking into consideration the impact on race relations.

3. The initial draft of that September 18, 2019 Press Release stated, “The Commission also respects the independence of GECOM as safeguarded in the Constitution. However, it believes that any deviation from constitutional mandated processes could create an environment that potentially impinges on confidence and impartiality. In view of the final ruling and consequential orders of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) in June this year, the Commission is cognizant

of the constitutional timeframe for holding elections catering for the circumstances at hand. It is cognizant that timeframe which should have been adhered to as per our Constitution, would regrettably not be met thereby creating an opportunity for the belief of democratic regression”. That was edited to read, “The Commission urges patience as GECOM executes its mandate to arrive at a date for the elections”.

Urging patience, while necessary, but in the context referred for adherence to constitutional elections timeframe, taking recourse to the court into consideration, can possibly be interpreted as turning a blind eye to constitutional transgression which derives democratic regression, and in turn, a disruption of peace. In that context, I felt that calling for the upholding of democracy is not divorced from the general mandate of the Commission.

4. The Commission, having observed the voting process and the counting of votes on March 2, at some polling places in parts of the country, issued a statement on March 6, 2020, pointing out those processes to be free, fair and transparent. It also urged GECOM to safeguard the integrity of the elections by ensuring that the verification and tabulation process with regard to Region 4, as reflected in The Representation of the People Act, is followed, and that transparency is foremost. While the Commission subsequently observed the verification and tabulation of Statements of Poll (SoPs) for Region 4, it did not pronounce on acts which were revealed and deemed unconstitutional and which further exacerbated discontent.

Caricom recognised the 5.

Commission as an important stakeholder as evident from the meeting with its then Chairperson and the Chairman of the Commission. The Commission, birthed out of political gridlock, did not make any public statement on the actual findings of the recount or submitted a final report of its observations. In fact, mention of Caricom’s role as a stakeholder was edited out from a Press Release.

All observer groups and the local court in March, declared the verification process of Region 4 SoPs as fraudulent and unlawful. All who observed the recount declared it fair and transparent.

I truly believe that the Commission missed opportunities to meaningfully intervene over time in the interest of the nation. Sadly, at that time, one Commissioner peddled the notion that the Caribbean

Court of Justice (CCJ) was not the highest and final means of legal recourse of our country. That Commissioner recently pointed out that misinformation contributed to that conclusion.

I believe, as a Commission, we could not continue to ignore the genesis of the political impasse and pointed out that with the public not oblivious of any appearance of such avoidance, might have resulted in them perceiving the Commission as being selective, inconsistent, unwilling or even incapable of dealing with contentions that emanated from political developments.

I stated that the Commission’s words have weight and with the seeming continual avoidance during its tenure to frontally identify factors that inhibit the attainment of harmonious relations between the ethnic groups with regard to the NCM and the elections, I asked, what would have been the Commission’s position had the PPP/C been in Government and the said scenario played out in 2018?

That aside, the Commission did not heed the advice of its Legal Officer to summon leaders of the previous Government and others involved, to denounce statements made during the violence at West Coast Berbice following the heinous killings of the Henry cousins. Time passed and escalation of tension were reasons offered for not heeding the Legal Officer’s advice.

In addition, despite strong recommendations from the Legal Officer, the Commission choose to take a vote to dispatch a letter to current APNU/AFC Member of Parliament, Sherod Duncan, to note its concerns over comments he made on a social media programme. Such a process was routine for others. Why the need for a vote on him? Currently, the Head of the Media Monitoring Unit, in his analysis on February 18, 2021, stated that Mr Duncan, in a subsequent programme, violated the Racial Hostility Act and the Representation of the People Act since the comment has the potential excite illwill and foster hatred based on race. No action has been taken thus far. Leader of the Liberty and Justice Party, Mr Lennox Shuman, was immediately summoned to answer for comments he made on a public programme.

I trust that the inference is not ambiguous.

Respectfully, Neaz Subhan Commissioner

guyanatimesgy.com

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021

5

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

PPP/C Government will once again We are not being used as tokenism rescue Guyana’s housing sector Dear Editor, The PPP/C Administration is working to fulfil their manifesto promises, since the APNU/AFC failed to execute their campaign promises made in 2015.

They promised affordable housing to teachers, public servants, nurses, Disciplined Forces among others and they did not deliver. They promised incentives to the Private Sector to reduce construction costs and again, could not deliver.

They could not keep any of their promises that they made in their own manifesto. Imagine between 2010 and 2015, 22,000-plus house lots were given out to citizens by the PPP/C Government.

Astonishingly, under the APNU/AFC coalition, 7534 house lots were allocated between 2015-2020.

The APNU/AFC stayed in office, what is more shocking is the David Granger regime constructed duplexes for some Guyanese citizens without amending the Condominium Act to include this type of house.

Now, these citizens are feeling the hardship of being disqualified from accessing loans, insurances or titles.

The result is that those citizens that invested their hard-earned dollars into those duplex houses cannot get insurance or titles and even more worrying is that the banks are not amendable to hold duplexes as collateral. How could any Minister be so stupid to allow this to happen? Even though they inherited a robust housing sector, it has plunged into complete disorder and confusion in

four years. No wonder why! The PPP/C Government will once again rescue the housing sector in 2021 and onwards.

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic will distribute and allocate $10,000 house lots to Guyanese citizens in 2021 and issue a minimum of 7000 land titles to many citizens who have been waiting for years to own their own homes.

In keeping with PPP/C’s manifesto promise to Guyanese, the PPP/C Administration will deliver 50,000 house lots by 2025, Guyanese must know that the present backlog of house lots applications is presently more than 70,000, let me remind Guyanese that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic Government is only in office for a very short period and has already allocated 3600 house lots and 413 land titles to Guyanese citizens.

The national housing development plan for 2021 includes the construction of 1000 homes for low-income earners in areas such as Amelia’s Ward, Cummings Lodge, Prospect, Providence, Little Diamond, Great Diamond, Onderneeing, Wales, Ordinance, Fortlands, Hampshire and Williamsburg.

Another 100 houses are set aside for the hinterland communities, citizens can look forward to benefitting from the construction of new roads and bridges as well as better water and electricity distribution in all regions.

The PPP/C Government promised homeowners new home improvement subsidies as well as building core homes

in La Parfaite Harmonie and Sophia, creating new recreational facilities, developments that include the construction of roads, bridges, drainage with water and electrical distribution networks which will be undertaken to complete infrastructure development works.

The Housing Ministry will enable cheaper prices for building materials and allow a single window of approval for business plans to ease the route to homeownership.

I am happy that the Government has seen the wisdom of allotting 10,000 house lots in 2021.

The 2021 budget will also see the removal of Value-Added Tax (VAT) on building and construction materials which must reduce the cost of building new homes in the future. Now that the burden of taxes is removed, it is a clear indication that the PPP/C Government is committed, and will be working to ensure that the tax measures announced in the 2021 budgetary measures, benefits the ordinary Guyanese and those who intend to build their own homes.

One of the biggest achievements in a person’s life is homeownership, it comes with it a sense of pride, fulfilment and security. It opens the door to endless opportunities, such as access to lending institutions, climbing the social ladder, and leaving an inheritance for your children, thereby providing the next generation with a stepping stone on which to begin their own lives.

Under the leadership of President Dr Irfaan Ali, the

housing sector will be restored to the place it once enjoyed, and will be steered to move beyond allocation of house lots but will focus mainly on encouraging, promoting and facilitating homeownership and community building.

Our PPP/C Government is determined to provide every Guyanese family with a decent home, in a safe, secure and proper neighbourhood; not as squatters or tenants, but as responsible and proud owners with titles that banks and other lending institutions will regard as good security.

One must know that Guyana’s housing development programme is designed to implement national housing and settlement policies through an efficient, well-planned, coordinated and structured framework, in order to realise the development of sustainable, affordable and modern settlements.

Our Government will deliver serviced lots through a comprehensive and coordinated approach among all of the agencies involved in order for Guyanese of all income brackets to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.

Guyana is on the curve of a great transformation and our PPP/C Government will make it possible for every Guyanese to benefit from that development, and for Guyanese of all walks of life to experience a significant elevation in their standard of living.

Sincerely, David Adams

Orealla/Siparuta can be the model of Amerindian communities in Guyana

Dear Editor, Orealla/Siparuta Amerindian District (OSAD) could have and can be the model of Amerindian communities in Guyana; be self-reliant with a strong economic and financial base through sustainable development projects, exploiting its (OSAD) many natural resources that is timber, fertile agri-lands, savannahs, bauxite, and white sand (white gold).

OSAD is situated 55 miles up the left bank of the Corentyne River from Mapena Creek to Potoco Creek, and was surveyed and demarcated by Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC) in 1989, covering an area of 269 square miles. (Official land title issued on September 22, 2005-President B Jagdeo) In 1991/1992, President Desmond Hoyte (deceased) invited the Orealla/Siparuta Village Council (OSVC) to prepare, present and discuss a development plan for the OSAD at the presidential office in Georgetown on a fixed date.

The OSVC prepared the development plan (several projects included) and at a discussion categorically emphasised the following: I. All or any development plans for OSAD to be successful, depends solely on reliable river transportation service.

II. With the river service, the agri production will increase tenfold; commercial, poultry and livestock raring will be a reality; and OSAD (first time) will be independently exploiting white sand for sale at Springlands/ Corriverton, making a sizable income which will be injected into other projects.

III. The OSVC further committed to supply all materials needed and build a boat 65x15x7, but needed financial assistance to purchase an engine for the boat (the lifeline for OSAD development).

President Hoyte was highly impressed with the plan put together and later invited the OSVC to select an engine for the boat and send the quotation to the presidential office in Georgetown. Now the OSVC selected a 130 HP lister petter engine including shaft, propeller, fuel tank, steering wheel, remote cables, etc.

The engine was bought shortly before President Hoyte emitted office in 1992.

In early 1993, a new OSVC was elected, also a new Minister of Amerindian Affairs (MOAA), Mr Vibert Desouza (deceased) was appointed. The latter reviewed the OSAD development plan and deemed it “a PNC plan”, and with no resistance from a spineless OSVC, built a much

smaller boat incapable of delivering the intended services.

The OSAD development plan never materialised due to this.

To date, OSAD is without a reliable river service.

The OSAD is well recognised for its logging operation for over 70 years and is the major supplier of logs to all the sawmills on the Crabwood Creek, Springlands Corentyne. This is the only area where white sand can be exploited economically and commercially whereas Nickerie, Suriname, exploits their sand from the sandbanks in the Corentyne River.

The OSVC in 1985-1992 had foreseen the transformation from large wooden buildings to massive concrete structures, increasing the demand for white sand; all concrete structures from Crabwood Creek to Rose Hall Town, Corentyne, built or being built, used or are using white sand from OSAD. I saw in the news on January 29, 2021, the Honourable Minister of Amerindian Affairs doled out $105 million to several Amerindian communities, OSAD was a recipient of $30 million.

Instructions were given to the Toshao of OSAD to utilise this 30 million to upgrade the ICT network and infrastruc-

ture within the district. I hope there’s a documented project plan with instructions demanding overseeing and accountability of this fund. The Honorable Minister is now serving a third term of MOAA (maybe a record) and is expected to be actively assisting in planning, implementing and overseeing sustainable projects in Amerindian communities involving State funds. And not to be seen as doling out funds haphazardly.

In 2019, APNU/AFC spent 136 million to “widen” an existing four-mile trail in OreallaSiparuta, under the pretext of “promoting tourism”. This 136 million could have purchased a Bedford truck, a Caterpillar loader, and a boat and engine while promoting other projects for the district’s development.

With $30 million, will the OSVC reconsider building a 65x15x7 boat with a diesel engine? Exploit “white gold”? Promote agri farming?

Commercial, poultry and livestock rearing? Be self-reliant through sustainable projects?

Build a strong economic and financial base? Be the model for Amerindian communities?

Sincerely, Gerald Mc Intyre Former Village Councillor/Secretary - OSVC

within the PPP party

Dear Editor, I wish to register my stern objections to being referred to in any way, shape or form as being used as a “token” or “educated slave” by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government. I - and I rather suspect others in the party or affiliated with the PPP - am tired of their contributions to the body politics of our nation being seen through these eyes or racial lenses just because of whom we support.

For the record, I am fully aware of the history of hardship and oppression that blacks in this part of the hemisphere have been through and endured throughout the periods of slavery, communism, and pre/post-independence periods in the Caribbean and further afield.

I know of the systematic racism being fuelled against blacks and coloured people that have made us resist and fight against the system that seems destined to put us down no matter what we try. And the stereotypes of being black and wealthy or being angry and a woman are untrue because time and time again we have many examples of this culture being shattered to pieces the world over.

Closer to home, we have seen how being black or coloured worked against us in the Caribbean to keep us down and in slave-like conditions whenever we want to reach or surpass our developmental aspirations.

It still works to keep us in check and behind today.

But my experience has opened my eyes to a world of possibilities that appear to be endless if you work hard, conscious of what you want, and are capable of respectable disagreement. In Guyana, the system has not been kind to all of us. The problem with the system for achieving wealth is that the opportunities are given to one group and people at the exclusion of another. The same is the case since the 1900s, development has been uneven where development is concerned.

People have been forced, like dogs, to react to their environment and to fend each for the ones that look closest to each other. This has grown into the diabolical practice of racism and being racist towards another because of the fear of that person dominating the resources for themselves and those that look like them.

I am proud to have the opportunity of an education and common sense to know that racism is wrong and we must never allow or condone it from anyone at any time. Therefore, the freedom of association and freedom of choice leaves it to me to decide who has the best sets of policies, plans and initiatives for Guyana. And which political party appears closest to achieving this vision that I see for a Guyana that isn’t enslaved to the chords of racism and is developing conscious that it is existing in a world that has been built on racism.

And that party has been a clear choice for many people that have grown weary of the racist and opportunistic PNC and the people who lead that party. We have grown tired of

not only preaching our history of the enslavement of the black man but using it against us to tell us that the only way you can break free from that state is by resistance and through the creation of fear, problems and anxiety. The PNC, now APNU, is opposed to working to break the chain of racism through new and unique partnerships, cooperation and bipartisan dialogue.

They want dominance and black superiority. They don’t want to share the corn of development equally as we now know from the experience of living under their political party when it was in Government from 2015 to August 2, 2020, and the period from 1966 to 1992. Look at how the PNC does when it gets power and control. Everything is for the Afro-Guyanese, throwing mere scraps to every other group in society. Their management of the economy, though it appears to the naked eyes as good, is rooted in the principles of tribalism and ethnic dominance.

Now that they are out of power, they want us to go easy on them. They now know the meaning of democracy, transparency and accountability. They are now the champions of the environment, good oil deals and good public sector investments in health, education and public works. They are now doing the works on our Amerindian community and the disadvantaged blocks in society.

They want public servants, of the black majority, to become worked up by demanding salary increases and better working conditions. They want the public to believe that the PPP has fired hundreds of black Guyanese from the public service without any reason because it will make them concerned and move to action.

But this PNC/APNU/AFC will not get the black Guyanese worked up again for no real reason. They will not fight against their black leaders in the PPP simply because they are qualified, and doing their job. They will not become worked up because they’re not seeing eye to eye with the APNU/AFC cabal.

We know what we are doing and that’s breaking the stereotypes of black people in the PPP. We know that we are a threat to those black leaders that thrive on race hate, division and divisive politics. We don’t believe in racism and using the excuse that “its because you are black…”.

I am not a token. PPP is not a party for Indians in Guyana alone. I am not here because I feel I am going to get something.

I am here because I am at home in the PPP, their policies are right, and Guyana is safe under the leadership of PPP. I know my history and the young people are smart to know their history and not repeat it.

I salute all the hardworking PPP members of African descent who are making a change for Guyana’s development and the hundreds crossing the divide daily. Together we can break the back of the problem of development one pillar at a time.

Yours faithfully, Michael Younge

6

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021

Page

Foundation ◄

Æsop’s Fables

FOR CHILDREN

Question 1

Friday’s answers 1a) 14 triangles 1b) There are four lines of symmetry

ical or physical process where one substance takes in another substance. In this experiment, the shaving cream is absorbing the food colouring and the computer paper then absorbs the colours. In result, we get multi-coloured gift wrap paper.

Materials:

computer paper shaving cream food colouring spoon, fork shallow pan, large enough for your paper paper towels

Extra experiments:

Instructions:

Using a spoon, spread a thin layer of shaving cream in the bottom of the pan.

All you need is a shallow coating.

Dot the surface of the shaving cream with food colouring.

Run the tines of a fork through the colours in a wavy fashion. Try not swirling your colours or else they will run together.

Lay your paper on top of the coloured layer in the pan. Smooth the paper out over the shaving cream.

Wait thirty seconds.

Remove the paper and wipe the shaving cream off with a dry paper towel. If you do this carefully, none of your colours will run or be distorted.

Allow your paper to dry. If it curls, you can have an adult iron it flat using low heat.

Now you can wrap your gifts with your own decorated wrapping paper.

How it works:

In chemistry, absorption is a chem-

Try using scented shaving cream and see how it effects the end result. Was the paper able to absorb not only the colour but the smell as well?

What happens if you do swirl your colours together in the pan? What colour or colours will your paper end up being?

What happens with the end result, if you use notebook paper instead of computer paper? Did it work? Does it absorb the colours better or worse? (sciencefun.org)

S

ome fishermen were out trawling their nets.

Perceiving them to be very heavy, they danced about for joy and supposed that they had taken a large catch.

When they had dragged the nets to the shore, they found but few fish: the nets were full of sand and stones, and the men were beyond measure cast down, so much at the disappointment which had befallen them, but because they had formed such very different expectations.

One of their company, an old man, said, “Let us cease lamenting, my mates, for, as it seems to me, sorrow is always the twin sister of joy; and it was only to be looked for that we, who just now were over-rejoiced, should next have something to make us sad.”

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

7

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Guyana secures new rice Work must begin by last quarter markets in eastern Europe of this year – Min Edghill ECD-EBD bypass road

— as Budget 2021 lays out aggressive plans to assist rice farmers

T

he People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government has secured two new rice markets for Guyana in eastern Europe, a feat that will be complemented by initiatives contained in the 2021 budget to boost the rice industry and assist farmers.

During his budget presentations, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha revealed that in 2020, two new markets for Guyana’s rice exports were secured in Hungary and Latvia, two Eastern

ways to dry paddy.

The Minister pointed out that there are a limited number of facilities in the various regions to dry paddy, which together with the cost to transport the paddy due to the distance is a disincentive for farmers.

“Budget 2021 will see the construction of 6 drying floors, in Regions Two, Three, Four and Six at the cost of $80 million. With this, an additional 50,000 bags of paddy will be dried per crop and spoilage and cost to transport

The rice sector expanded last year

European countries.

“Additionally, Guyana will soon be exporting an additional 24,000 tons of rice to Brazil, taking the total to 34,000 tons,” the Minister further explained in his contribution to the debates on the $383.1 billion budget.

Minister Mustapha also noted that there is a countrywide lack of capacity to dry paddy during the peak season, something that had manifested last year when rice farmers were at loggerheads with Police in Region Six over the use of the road-

paddy will be reduced,” the Minister explained.

“We will rehabilitate the cleaning and drying facility at Lesbeholden substation, BBP at the cost of $20 million. An estimated total of 6300 bags of seed is expected to be dried and cleaned per crop and prevented from spoilage.”

He also spoke of the work done by the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), which he said has been providing necessary support to rice farmers, by producing and making accessible 25,902 bags of seeds to farm-

Agriculture Mustapha

Minister

W

Zulfikar

ers. Additionally, Mustapha revealed that GRDB had provided five mechanical sprayers to bring relief to rice farmers facing the paddy bug “In 2021 we will procure five long-reach sprayers to aid paddy bug control for $7 million, which will reduce the damage caused by the paddy bug and reduce the high cost of spraying the paddy bug by 60 per cent. In Region Two alone, for the second crop 2020, the damage at the mills was as high as 75 per cent, this intervention will reduce the reoccurrence of the high losses,” the Minister said.

For 2020, Guyana’s agriculture sector saw mixed results. During his recent reading of Budget 2021, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh had reported that while sugar production fell, rice production increased.

According to the Finance Minister, the rice-growing sector grew by 4.8 per cent, with paddy production reaching 1,057,580 tonnes in 2020.

On the other hand, the sugar-growing one contracted by 3.7 per cent, with production falling to a low 88,868 tonnes.

ith the Indian Government having approved the new scope of works for the redesigned bypass road project connecting the East Coast to the East Bank of Demerara, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill said they are hoping to commence works in the latter part of this year.

“We’re going out to procurement and then evaluation and award of the contract. Once we get the no objection, we’ll have the award of the contract. We’re working to get all of that finalised by the last quarter. Work must begin by the last quarter of this year,” Minister Edghill told Guyana Times on Sunday.

Since the project is being funded by the Indian Government, the contract will have to be awarded to a company from India.

“It is an Indian company that will have to be selected.

So that process of getting out to procurement is being finalised,” the Public Works Minister added.

Back in 2015, the Indian Government had provided a US$50 million Line of Credit (LOC) for the road link that was initially slated for Ogle, ECD, to Diamond, EBD. However, the project cost was driven up to over $208 million by the previous APNU/AFC regime and the project was at a standstill since 2019.

However, when the PPP/C Government took office last year it redesigned the project into two phases – first from Ogle to Haags Bosch road at Eccles, EBD, which is about 48-50 per cent of the project, and then from Haags Bosch to Diamond – in order to fit the US$50 million LOC. Because of these changes in the scope of the project, additional approvals were required

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill

from New Delhi and after several months, President Dr Irfaan Ali last month announced during his inaugural address to the 12th Parliament that Guyana got the green light to go ahead with the new designs.

Previously, Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr KJ Srinivasa, had told Guyana Times that once approval is given for the new scope of works then the process of Requests for Proposals and tendering will commence.

The bypass road will create a new highway in the backlands, allowing for an alternative route to the country’s two main thoroughfares.

This project will see a total of 26 kilometres of road being constructed with links to connect key communities in Georgetown and along the East Bank of Demerara. These include Diamond, Mocha and Eccles – all on the East Bank – and Aubrey Barker Road in Georgetown. These connections will prove crucial in diverting traffic.

In addition to the two-phase road from Ogle to Diamond, the Guyana Government is also looking to further extend the road to Timehri to provide alternative access to the country’s main port, the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

When asked whether the

Indian Government will also fund this third phase of the bypass road project, High Commissioner Srinivasa had said, “These are things which are still under conversation between the two countries…”

Meanwhile, Government has undertaken several new road projects along the EBD corridor to ease the heavy traffic congestion.

Currently, works are ongoing for another alternative road connecting Diamond and Eccles on the EBD corridor in order to ease the traffic congestion. The new alternative road will run from Sixth Avenue, Diamond, to the Windsor Estate Road that leads on to the Eccles Landfill Site Road.

This will form a connection through the new Herstelling Housing Scheme and other schemes that are being developed along the EBD corridor.

That project is near completion ahead of its April deadline.

Additionally, a second road is also being constructed between Eccles and Mandela Avenue, which will be completed later this year in November.

Some 27 companies – both local and foreign – have submitted bids for the construction of the four-lane highway that will provide an alternative access road to ease traffic congestion along the EBD corridor.

In January, President Ali had explained that these projects are all a part of the Government’s drive to transform Guyana’s infrastructure and link communities. “[This] is part of urban planning too. And we’re also working with the Police to ensure that we have security measures, lighting, Police presence and everything. Not only to have infrastructure, but to make sure it is safe,” the Head of State had noted.

8 NEWS

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Woman in custody after robbing miner in hotel room

A

25-year-old woman is now in Police custody after she forced her way into a pork-knocker’s hotel room and robbed him of a quantity of items.

Michelle Melville of Oronoque, Port Kaituma, North West District (NWD), allegedly robbed 44-yearold Herbie Francis of Rincon Moruca on Monday last at Port Kaituma Water Front.

The gold miner was reportedly robbed of three ounces of raw gold worth

$1,000,000, one cell phone valued at $60,000 and $30,000 in cash.

Francis reportedly told the Police that on the day in question, the woman approached him at the hotel and asked if she could accompany him to his room, to which he refused.

The man subsequently opened his door and the woman reportedly forced her way into the room and sat on the bed.

He told Police that Melville then requested

that he purchase alcoholic beverages but again, he refused. The woman then began ransacking his bag, saying that she was looking for gold and money.

During her search, she found the items but the victim reportedly ordered her to leave. He then left the room and went to use the washroom, and upon his return, he noticed the items and suspect missing.

A report was subsequently made to the Police and an investigation was

launched to locate the suspect.

Meanwhile, on the same day, Police acting on information received went to the woman’s house and found her hiding under a mattress. She was questioned about the stolen items, and subsequently handed over a bag containing the raw gold and a cell phone.

Melville was immediately arrested and taken into custody. Two other persons were also arrested as investigations continue.

Passages...

N

...and moving on ext Saturday will be 24 years since Cheddi Jagan passed away. At that time, most conceded that the event marked the end of an era. Born of indentured immigrant parents who’d been brought as children from India, Jagan was born just the year after that system of exploitive labour was abolished.

His life trajectory encapsulated the history writ large of Indentured labourers’ struggle to rise above the plantation drudgery that cribbed – if not crippled – the human potential.

Unlike most who entered the professional middle class that was the dream of the society, Jagan attempted to do something about improving the lot of those at the bottom. We may disagree with the ideological path he chose to do so, but we cannot disagree with his intentions and the probity in his actions. He could’ve easily followed the beaten path and enjoyed life as a dentist in Georgetown. But he didn’t. His entry into politics certainly wasn’t because he wanted to earn bigger bucks.

In fact throughout his life, he never earned a salary that being a full-time dentist would’ve brought in!

For good, bad or indifferent, it’s clear that the type of idealism Jagan represented is long gone from our country. The new idealism is to work creatively, become a millionaire – or better yet a billionaire like Bill Gates – and then engage in philanthropic activities! When Jagan returned to office in 1992, he told overseas Guyanese who’d picked up skills that Guyana needed to return home and work for GY$1 annually!! Surprisingly, he did get a few takers!

He didn’t live long enough to see the new millennium and the changes it has ushered in. But one thing his life has taught us is to never say “never”! So will we be seeing some of our overseas sisters and brothers returning?

Well, maybe...but certainly not at GY$1/annually! Think US$13,000/annually! So is it “idealism” if returnees insist on matching their salary and living conditions in “foreign”? Good thing Jagan was cremated or he’d be turning in his grave!

With the recent disgraceful carryings-on in Parliament, several writers have cited Jagan’s “bad behaviour” when he once knocked down the Mace in protest as he walked out. But this is a totally inappropriate comparison to the kind of personalised epithets that were hurled in the Budget Debate. Jagan was making a point against the POWER of the State as represented by the Mace.

The point of the matter is that we’re in a new era and there will be new norms. But those norms have to help us achieve the goals for our country that will never change.

A Guyana where we can live in peace and happiness. ...and restraint There was a big hullabaloo raised last December when 26 Haitians were held by the Police after they’d been apprehended at a city hotel – evidently on their way to Brazil or Suriname. The cry was that they weren’t going to remain in Guyana and were merely seeking a better life than in the hellhole that Haiti has been for most of its populace in the past two centuries. But the point our Attorney General was making was that it was clear that this was an organised transportation system for years and could be violating the UN Protocol against smuggling of immigrants!

In January the Courts decided that the Haitians should be released – which was a moot point by then since they’d vanished into Brazil. Well, the matter has now resurfaced because another 26 Haitians and 1 Cuban were nabbed after they crossed into Brazil and they’ll most likely be returned to Guyana.

So, what will we be doing since the Courts say we can’t hold them? ...and venality Up to now, there’s been only “he seh, dem seh” on the ERC’s December giveaways. Now, there’s proof that the Chair, Rev Bishop Dr John Smith, lied.

Minutes show a Howard “proposed”, a Braithwaite “seconded” and a Smith accepted a $150,000 “honorarium”!

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

NEWS

9

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Probe launched into missing $300M at GPF — issuance of firearm licences from 2018 to present under scrutiny

H

ome Affairs Minister Robeson Been said that there appears to be a revolving door with the finances at the Guyana Police Force (GPF), where an investigation has been launched into missing funds to the tune of $300 million.

“An investigation is underway with respect to the Police Finance Department.

There seems to be a revolving door between Police finances and the Police Welfare Fund.

For the last year, or part of the last year, an amount of $300 million is missing,” Benn said on Friday during his contribution to the ongoing Debates on the 2021 National Budget.

The Home Affairs Minister noted that a forensic audit of the Force’s Finance Department is being conducted.

Back in November, a forensic audit into the Police Force had unearthed over $100 million being misappropriated and 100 hand-

guns missing.

Several senior ranks of the force were questioned in relation to the missing weapons and the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) has already obtained the files and hard drives.

Among the guns missing are those that were lodged by private citizens for safekeeping as well as those seized from criminals or in criminal activities that are evidence in court cases.

The audit had noted that the weapons started to go missing in 2018.

Meanwhile, during Friday’s presentation, Minister Benn further disclosed that investigations are also ongoing into the issuance of firearm licences by the Police Force between the period January 2018 to present.

In fact, Minister Benn had revealed during the 2020 Emergency Budget debates last September that

more than half of the gun licences issued for 2020 were done without engaging the Firearm Licensing Board.

“It appears as though 2020 was a banner year for the issuance of firearms at the hand of [former Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan] without the engagement of the Firearm Licensing Board. Sixty-one per cent of all firearms issued in 2020 were issued at the hands of the Minister without the engaging of the Firearm Licensing Board,” Benn had disclosed.

There is a three-stage process for licensing. It begins with an application letter being sent to the Divisional Commander, who assigns a rank to check on the applicant’s character in his or her community. The application is then sent to the Commissioner’s Office to ensure that the applicant has no previous antecedents or convictions.

The application then goes

Pastor killed by speeding minibus in WCB

The now dead pastor: Okechi Farley

A

The minibus after crashing into the utility pole

pastor has become the latest road fatality after he was struck down by a speeding minibus along the West Coast Berbice (WCB) public road on Sunday. He has been identified as 48-yearold Okechi Farley.

Based on reports received, Farley, who was a Mechanical Engineer employed with the Guyana Sugar Corporation’s (GuySuCo) East Berbice Operations, was riding his motorcycle along the No 29 Village public road when a minibus which was driv-

ing at a fast rate of speed attempted to overtake another vehicle but ended up hitting him.

Farley sustained several head and body injuries and would have died on the spot. Nevertheless, he was picked up and taken to the Fort Wellington Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

While details of the accident remain sketchy, Guyana Times understands that after hitting the motorcyclist, the driver of the minibus lost control and crashed into a util-

ity pole. This led to several passengers sustaining injuries.

The injured persons were taken to the Fort Wellington Hospital where they were treated for minor injuries. The driver of the minibus was arrested and is assisting the Police in their investigations.

The now dead pastor was reportedly a lecturer at the GuySuCo Training Centre at Port Morant, Corentyne, Berbice.

to the Firearm Licensing Board. It is then decided, at that stage, whether the applicant is fit. If so, the application is sent to the Minister for the final stamp of approval.

In 2018, the issuance of gun licences came under the microscope after former Top Cop Seelall Persaud bypassed the Firearm Licensing Board when he attempted to grant himself a licence to open a firearm dealership as well as an upgrade of the calibre of weapons he is allowed to carry.

Nevertheless, the Home Affairs Minister pointed out that efforts are now afoot to address these and other issues that plague the Police Force as he emphasised the need for better professionalism to be displayed by members.

To this end, he noted that the PPP/C Government since assuming office in August 2020 has been providing the

necessary resources to ensure that the Force is adequately equipped to carry out its duties. This, the Minister added, has resulted in the reduction in crime figures recorded.

According to Minister Benn, a review of the 2020 statistics shows an overall reduction of serious crimes by 6.9 per cent. This year, to date, figures indicate a decline in serious crime by 40.3 per cent.

“This is viewed as a response to an increase in vehicles, motorcycle and feet patrols, and also improving keenness of Police ranks… The reduction is also due to provisions by the Government of resources in the form of 45 motorcycles and the support of vehicles alone from the Government agencies along with better use of surveillance cameras and intelligence showed the efficacy of this Force,” he posited.

Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn

Moreover, the Home Affairs Minister went on to note that the funds allocated to the Police Force will be directed towards tackling the rising crime which he said is as a result of “the lapses due to the pandemic.”

The Guyana Police Force has been allotted a whopping $15.3 billion from the Home Affairs Ministry’s $20.3 billion budget.

10 NEWS

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Major Crimes Unit dispatched to Lethem to investigate jail break – Crime Chief …says ranks who were on duty under close arrest

I

n light of the recent escape of four prisoners from the Lethem Police Station lock-ups, a team of detectives from the Major Crimes Investigation Unit was dispatched to the area on Saturday evening to conduct a thorough investigation.

This was confirmed on Sunday by Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum, who

stated that the investigation would ascertain “inter alia, the culpability of those ranks who were performing duties at the time of the escape which occurred between February 25 and 26, 2021”.

In addition, the Senior Superintendent of Police further stated that the investigation would determine whether there were

Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum

any breaches of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

The Crime Chief further stated that those officers who were on duty on the evening of the breakage were under close arrest as

investigations continued.

The men who escaped from the Lethem Police Station lock-ups are Jack King Paul, 36, of Kwatamang Village, North Rupununi; Clarence Rodney, 20, of Lethem, Central Rupununi; Yon Rogg Hernandez, also called “John Roberts”, a Venezuelan national, 26, of Tabatinga, Lethem, and Xarlos Edwards Thomas, an 18-year-old Venezuelan also of Tabatinga.

It was reported that the men used a metal rod measuring one foot in length to dig a hole in the ground measuring three feet in width, length and depth.

There was a two-inch layer of concrete on the surface of the hole with red sand beneath.

On the said date about 07:00h, one prisoner from Tabatinga who is in custody for assault alerted the Police that the men were missing from the lock-ups.

The Police stated that all efforts were being made to locate and recapture the prisoners.

This escape came just over one week after 25-yearold Imran Ramsaywack of Adelphi Village, East Coast

Escapee: Yon Rogg Hernandez, also called “John Roberts”

Berbice (ECB); 44-yearold Kenrick Lyte, whose last known address was Grant Good Intent, Lower Pomeroon River; 22-yearold Samuel Gouveia of Goedverwagting, East Coast Demerara (ECD), and 22-year-old Rayon Jones of Timehri, East Bank Demerara (EBD) escaped from the high-security Mazaruni Prison.

Ramsaywack and Lyte were on death row while the other two were serving time for manslaughter.

On the day in question about 07:15h during the unlocking of the Brick Prison – Solitary Division – it was observed that the padlock on the entrance gate was

Escapee: Clarence Rodney

tampered with, and further checks revealed that two bars within the cell were cut.

Prison authorities have since said that the Emergency Action Plan as it relates to the escape of inmates was immediately activated, and a joint patrol was established at the outer perimeter of the prison and a search launched by the Joint Services to recapture the four escapees.

To date, none of the escapees has been recaptured, but Ralph Jones, the father of one of the prison escapees, was charged for helping the fugitives after they turned up at his home in Bartica.

NEWS

11

SUNDAY, MARCH 1, 2021|| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

CJIA makes $1.3B profit for 2019 — passenger service fees rake on $1.7B

T

he Cheddi Jagan International Airport Corporation (CJIAC) made a net profit of $1.3 billion for 2019, the last full year before the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic wiped out large sections of international travel and Guyana’s airport went on lockdown.

This is contained in the airport’s financial state-

ments for 2019, which together with the 2018 statements were laid in the National Assembly last week. According to the financial statement, the airport made its money from various sources.

For instance, the airport saw some of its income coming from the passenger service fee ($1.784 billion), aerodrome ($211 million),

Plans underway to promote professionalism in prison system – Min Benn

— training of young inmates also in cards

H

ome Affairs Minister Robeson Benn has announced that the PPP/C Government is currently working on improving the prison system in Guyana, by ensuring officers operate in a more professional manner while also showing empathy to inmates.

He made this revelation during his contribution to the ongoing National Budget Debates at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC).

“I have repeatedly told the officers that I do not want prisoners beaten, I do not want their food taken away. I have requested that the pris-

Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn

In the new week, the construction of three new blocks at the Lusignan Prison will commence, which should be able to accommodate some 600 prisoners.

Sections of the prison

The Lusignan Prions on Fire last July

on system plant 4000 fruit trees to help improve the diet of the prisoners, I have asked the Minister of Agriculture for four shade houses to act as nurseries and I have said prisoners should be able to get a banana and an egg regularly,” the Minister said.

He added that the Government’s responsibility is to rehabilitate prisoners so that they can be reintegrated into society.

Some $5 billion has been earmarked for the Guyana Prison Service in this year’s budget. Of that amount, $50 million will be used to train inmates in the areas of anger management, literacy, agriculture, and culinary arts.

Additionally, 30 incarcerated youths will benefit from digital skills training to support rehabilitation and social transformation upon their release.

Nevertheless, with the efforts of addressing overcrowding in the prisons, the Home Affairs Ministry’s aim is to ensure that all inmates are housed properly.

were destroyed after inmates set it on fire over arguments of cannabis found.

It was reported that narcotics, cellphones and other contraband items were found by an investigative team during cell sweeps and tension subsequently broke out between prison officers and inmates.

An explosion was heard moments later and the fire erupted. The fire caused damage mainly to the administrative building and an old building that was formerly used to house inmates.

The fire was said to have spread quickly due to the old, wooden buildings in the compound. The fire service was able to extinguish the fire before it got to the prison.

Meanwhile, the 2021 National budget also caters for the completion of a new building at the Mazaruni Prison to accommodate 220 high-profile inmates in the first quarter of the year.

Works are also underway at the New Amsterdam penitentiary.

concession and security fees ($172 million), car park fees ($85.7 million) land leases ($13.9 million), fuel dispensing ($10.8 million) and escort fees ($1.866 million).

It also had a number of administrative expenses for the year 2019, including $678.5 million in employment expense, $30.5 million listed under the rubric of “bad debt” and $3.927 million for meals.

Mention was also made in the statement of the CJIA expansion project, the scope of works for which was downgraded under the former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government.

According to the CJIAC, costs incurred by the corporation as at December 31, 2019, on the expansion project was $338.6 million.

Additionally, it was noted

The Cheddi Jagan International Airport

that the corporation would advance US$1 million towards expansion that would have been refunded by the subject Ministry.

When the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Government took office in August of 2020, the CJIA expansion project was one of the more problematic projects the Public Works Ministry inherited from the former APNU/AFC Government.

The CJIA expansion project was mired in con-

troversy, after the former Government took over what was supposed to be a fixed price US$138 million contract and accepted downgraded works from contractor China Harbour and Engineering Company (CHEC).

The contractor has since been tasked by the current Government with revising the scope of works to include the original terms of that contract. And during his 2021 budget presentation, Finance Minister Dr

Ashni Singh had announced the Government’s intention of injecting $2.5 billion more into the CJIA expansion.

In his 2019 Audit Report, which was handed over in December of last year, Auditor General Deodat Sharma had highlighted the fact that CJIA was among several other statutory bodies which had failed to comply with Section 80 (4) of the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act of 2003.

Section 80 speaks to the presentation of financial statements for audit in a timely manner. According to the AG, at the time the last financial statement laid was 2017. However, the head of the budget agency had informed the Auditor General that the audits for 2018 and 2019 had been completed and were waiting to be laid in the National Assembly.

12 NEWS

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Human Services Ministry disturbed by brutality meted out to women & girls — Minister visits 98-year-old rape victim

T

he Human Services and Social Security Ministry is alarmed and deeply disturbed by the increasing violence and brutality meted out to women and girls.

“Two most recent cases – the rape and brutal beating of a 98-year-old woman and the alleged forcible sexual assault of a 10-year-old child highlight the horrific nature of this persistent, monstrous scourge of abuse

which tears at the very fabric of our nation,” the Ministry stated in a release to the media on Sunday.

In addition, the Ministry has called for the perpetrators to be dealt with condignly and face the full force of the law. The Ministry continues to encourage the culture of reporting and urged persons to utilise the 914 hotline for early interventions.

In fact, with its continu-

Intoxicated farmer wounded without any memory of what transpired

Intoxicated

A

Minister Persaud at the home of the 98-year-old rape victim

ous efforts to safeguard the vulnerable, the Ministry in collaboration with the National Commission of the Elderly and the Childcare Protection Agency (CPA) will be rolling out new programmes, as well as strengthening existing programmes to tackle these serious issues.

Meanwhile, subject Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud visited the 98-yearold woman who was raped and viciously beaten in her Rose Hall home last week.

She has since committed to assisting the elderly woman with the necessary resources to ensure her ongoing comfort and safety.

Accompanying the Minister was Permanent Secretary Shannielle Hoosein-Outar.

Following the visit, Minister Persaud strongly condemned the brutality of the attack on the defenceless woman, and would “like to see the perpetrators be dealt with condignly and face the full force of the law.”

& wounded

twenty-five-year-old farmer is now a patient of the Linden Hospital after he was wounded while returning home from a night out with friends. The injured man has been identified as Henry Rodrigues of Moblissa, Linden-Soesdyke Highway.

The incident is suspected to have occurred on Friday evening along the Moblissa Trail by an unknown person(s).

Police investigations revealed that on the night in question, the victim was at a shop imbibing in the area.

Rodrigues told ranks he had no further recollection of the night after leaving the shop.

Meanwhile, Abraham Viveiros - a friend of the victim with whom he shared a house told investigators that he was at home preparing dinner when he heard Rodrigues calling out to him.

He explained that the house is a short distance

across the creek.

Viveiros reportedly crossed the creek in his boat to collect the suspect, who was highly intoxicated at the time.

He further explained that when they arrived on the other side of the creek, he noticed that Rodrigues bore injuries to his head, left side chest and was bleeding. Without hesitation, he summoned the victim’s sister.

With the assistance of Rodrigues’ brother-in-law, they quickly transported him to the Linden Hospital Complex where he was admitted and is currently receiving treatment for his injuries.

Rodrigues is said to in a serious but stable condition.

Police revealed that several persons were questioned in the area but no useful information was received.

Investigations are ongoing.

NEWS

13

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Hadfield Street man ECD man critical after being arrested after hijacking stabbed by teen during argument motorcycle at D’Urban Park T

A

53-year-old man of Hadfield Street, Georgetown, was arrested shortly after he and three others allegedly robbed an East Bank Demerara (EBD) resident of his motorcycle on Sunday evening at D’Urban Park.

Police stated that the victim was robbed of the motorcycle bearing registration number CK 4912 that is valued at 250,000 along with a mobile phone and $1500 in cash.

Based on information received, the victim was riding his motorcycle at a slow rate along Vlissengen Road, Georgetown, and came to a stop at the traffic light at the junction of Homestretch Avenue and Vlissengen Road.

It was at that time, one of the perpetrators jumped onto his motorcycle and demanded that he ride to D’Urban Park, to which he complied out of fear. Upon reaching the Park, he was confronted by three other men, who relieved him of the abovementioned articles.

After the robbery, the victim reportedly raised an alarm and was able to draw

the attention of a Police Mobile Unit. Swift action by the ranks led to the arrest of the main perpetrator.

At the time of his arrest, he was found with the mirrors of the stolen motorcycle.

He is assisting the Police in their investigations. The other three bandits were identifiable. Their description was provided to the Police by the victim.

wenty-four-year-old Shafeek Abdool was admitted in a critical condition at the Georgetown Public Hospital after he was stabbed about his body by a teen in the wee hours of Sunday at Non Pariel, East Coast Demerara (EBD).

According to reports received, the suspect and victim had a misunderstanding which resulted in the suspect arming himself with a glass bottle, breaking it and stabbing the victim several times about his body.

The victim was subsequently rushed to the medical facility where he was treated and admitted.

Abdool reportedly suffered a puncture to the left lung.

The suspect, who was ar-

Toddler critical after father reverses vehicle

L

ess than 24 hours after 20-month-old Adan Kiritpaul of Mahaica, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was driven over and killed by his father, another toddler, this time 18-month-old Adena Ramkissoon, was admitted in a critical condition after she was struck down by a reversing vehicle driven by her father.

Police investigations revealed that the incident occurred on Sunday morning as the child’s father, who operates a home-based taxi service, was reversing out of his yard.

Danny Ramkissoon told Police investigators that as he was about to leave home, he reportedly felt as though his vehicle ran over something.

He stopped the vehicle, exited and upon checking, he observed his daughter lying

The now Adan Kiritpaul who was crushed by his father on Saturday

motionlessly under the left rear side of the car.

He immediately raised an alarm and the child was picked up and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital

where she was admitted a patient in the Emergency Unit.

The child’s condition is listed as critical. The parents were left in a traumatised state and as such, statements

were not taken.

On Saturday, Kiritpaul was crushed to death by his father. It was reported that on the day in question, the father was navigating the motor lorry out of his yard when he looked out his rearview mirror and saw something between the wheels.

Police said that the man stopped and disembarked only to discover his son lying motionlessly and his head crushed. An alarm was raised and the Police were called.

The child was taken to the Mahaicony Cottage Hospital where he pronounced dead.

The father has since been taken into custody.

rested, was also escorted to the medical facility to seek medical attention after crying out for pains about his body. He was seen, examined and deemed clinically okay.

He is presently in custody at the Vigilance Police Station pending charges.

Only a few days ago, 30-year-old Clifton Bhagwandat, a horse cart operator of Chateau Margot Squatting Dam, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was stabbed to death by a 26-year-old labourer of the said area.

It was reported that Bhagwandat went to the suspect, who is his neighbour, to purchase a pack of cigarettes but he was short of some money. This led to

an argument between the men.

Police related that Bhagwandat reportedly snatched the money from the suspect’s hand, and said he was going to a Chinese shop to purchase the cigarettes instead.

In anger, the suspect ran into his home, picked up a knife, rushed to the victim, and began stabbing him about his body.

The injured man attempted to escape but he collapsed after running a short distance. He was later pronounced dead by EMT technicians. The suspect, however, made good his escape, but later turned himself in. He is expected to be charged with the capital offence this week.

14 NEWS

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Active COVID-19 cases drop to 418 as 35 new cases recorded T he Ministry of Health on Sunday reported that another 35 new cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) were detected in the last 24 hours from some 795 tests conducted.

According to new statistics provided by the Ministry, the total number of confirmed cases in Guyana is now 8585 – 4433 males and 4152 females.

However, the country’s active cases dropped to 418, which is 74 cases less than the previous day.

These active cases include four patients in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and the other 414 persons in isolation with 23 of them institutionalised and the remaining 391 at home.

There is also another nine persons in institutional quarantine.

Meanwhile, the COVID-19 death toll remains at 195, with the latest fatalities being a 38-year-old male from Region Seven (CuyuniMazruni) and a 79-yearold female from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), both of whom died on February 24 while receiving care at medical facilities.

In the last 24 hours, only one person has recovered from the life-threatening virus, taking the total number of recoveries thus far to 7972.

To date, some 65,258 persons have been tested for the novel coronavirus in Guyana.

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony last week acknowledged that the vast increase in the number of tests conducted is as a result of

persons travelling, particularly to the United States, being required to get tested.

Of the 35 new cases recorded on Sunday, seven were detected in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), a whopping 23 cases in the Demerara-Mahaica region, one in Region Five (MahaicaBerbice) and four cases in Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice).

The figures in the other six regions – Region One (Barima-Waini), Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), the CuyuniMazaruni region, Region

Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo) – remained the same.

As the number of cases continues to increase in the country, Government two weeks ago rolled out the administration of the COVID-19 vaccines in Guyana. That batch of AstraZeneca vaccines was donated by the Government of Barbados and it has already been used to vaccinate over 2000 frontline healthcare workers.

Last Monday, Dr Anthony said that they would go ahead and administer all the vaccines donated

by Barbados as the first dose and await the arrival of follow-up vaccines to administer the second dose. He subsequently announced on Friday last that Guyana would be getting 80,000 doses of the AstraZeneca jab from India early this month.

Meanwhile, Guyana is currently awaiting the arrival of another batch of 104,000 vaccines from the COVAX facility (co-led

by WHO, UNICEF, Gavi – the Vaccine Alliance and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations).

In the meantime, health authorities are reminding all Guyanese to observe the protocols of the COVID-19 Emergency Measures (No 15), which was extended for this month and will be in effect until March 31, 2021.

Among these measures is the 22:30h (10 pm) to 04:00h (4 am) national curfew which remains intact. Restaurants and places of worship continue to operate at 40 per cent capacity. Gyms are to operate at 50 per cent capacity while sporting events are only permitted with approval from the Health Minister.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), as of Sunday, some 113,467,303 confirmed cases were reported globally along with 2,520,550 deaths.

The WHO also reported on Sunday that in the Region of the Americas, that is, Latin America and the Caribbean, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases has increased to 50,426,060 while the death toll in the region has gone up to 1,205,245.

Traffic cop injured after speeding car turns turtle

The car belonging to the traffic cop after the accident

A

traffic officer is now a patient at the New Amsterdam Hospital after the car he was driving toppled several times before ending up in a trench along the No 1 Public Road on Sunday morning.

The injured officer has been identified as 22-yearold Constable Bhameshwar Jainarine of Line Path B Corentyne, who is stationed at Central Police Station and attached to the Traffic Department.

Police stated that the Constable was driving a motor car bearing registration number PNN 646 and was heading in the direction of New Amsterdam, allegedly at a fast rate of speed.

However, the injured man told Police that on his way to New Amsterdam, a pig came into the path of his vehicle.

He added that he attempted to apply brakes and swerved to avoid a collision but instead, he lost control of the vehicle and topped several times before coming to a halt in a nearby trench.

As a result, he sustained lacerations about his body and injuries to his head.

The injured cop at the New Amsterdam Hospital

He was taken out of his vehicle by public-spirited citizens in a conscious state and taken to Port Mourant Public Hospital where he was treated and referred to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital for further medical attention.

According to the Police, due to his injuries, they were unable to conduct a breathalyser test since the possibility exists that he might have been under the influence of alcohol when the accident occurred.

NEWS

15

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Region 6 Police Commander promises to forge better relationship with communities — says Police will take a more “hands-on approach”

of simple larceny. A backlog of matters exists, which have not been properly disposed of long before we came to this division, but we are working vigorously to have those matters properly investigated, and the offenders brought to justice.”

Meanwhile, Commander Ramlakhan also told residents that they will see a

Commander Jairam Ramlakhan with residents of Number 52 Village, Berbice

C

ommander of Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), Senior Superintendent Jairam Ramlakhan at a recent public meeting with residents of Number 52 Village, Berbice, Corentyne, assured them that the Police will forge a better relationship with the community.

As such, during the meeting, he called on residents to raise concerns about crime and to vent their frustration about issues that may be plaguing their community that members of the Police Force can handle.

“Do not be frustrated, you can speak with me directly so we can address all problems. Because you are the members of the public and you know what your issues and challenges are,” he stated.

Ramlakhan further explained that he has done much shifting and restructuring of the Berbice Division to ensure maximum output from all officers while noting that many officers be-

came inefficient since they held the same post for many years.

As such, he related that he conducted transfers when he was named Commander back in August 2020.

“I have transferred almost all the Police in this region. Because I believe that being at one place for too long, you become complacent. We have close monitoring and evaluation of every rank so we can understand where their limitations are and we will correct it,“ he explained.

Moreover, he posited that in efforts to reduce crime in the region, Police officers will now have a more “hands-on approach”.

“We have a different team now, a team of investigators who are not just sitting at their desks, they are going out in the fields. We cannot eliminate crime, but we can certainly reduce it.”

He posited that residents will have more contact with officers and can observe them working closely with

and within communities.

Additionally, the Commander also called on residents to actively support officers in the quest to address all matters and to assist them in maintaining public order. He noted that crime-fighting is not only the responsibility of the Police but as members of the community, they too can play a role.

“You, the members of the public also have a responsibility to keep a watchful eye.

Speak with us. We cannot do it alone.” he explained.

Amongst complaints raised by residents were those of simple larceny.

Residents noted that in most cases, car parts such as batteries and other household items are often stolen within the area.

In response, the Commander stated that “at this point in time, we have high Police presence in this region… We have also had at least two persons recently arrested, charged and convicted for several counts

change in traffic ranks’ disposition.

He noted that they will now be more professional and will only stop road users when there is a genuine issue.

Additionally, he disclosed that the region is slated to have oral driver’s licence tests administered.

The Commander added

that he has observed that many farmers and youth are deprived of the opportunity to be licence holders due to their educational constraints. As such, oral exams will be administered to equip them with their licence.

He projected that this would also secure jobs for youth who are unemployed but good drivers.

Road Traffic Act to be revised to curb traffic lawlessness – Min Benn

M

One of the many accidents on Guyana’s roadways

inister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn while responding to questions at the ongoing Debates on the 2021 Budget in the National Assembly, said that new legislation is needed and a revision of the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act Chapter 51:02 should be done immediately.

He said this will aid in curbing the traffic lawlessness in Guyana and assist drivers to adjust to the changing society.

Minister Benn added that statistics have shown that there is an increase in the number of vehicles im-

ported into Guyana, and an increase in accidents due to inattentiveness, speeding and driving under the influence of alcohol.

“This is caused because fines and penalties are small and ineffective. Hence, fines on all categories of offences should be increased by 100 per cent being tickets and charge offences,” he said.

Nevertheless, he said in order to raise greater traffic awareness of road safety and to reduce traffic accidents amongst road users, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has already commenced an education programme through print and

electronic media.

The Minister said his Ministry is also working with the National Road Safety Council and other stakeholders to erect traffic signs, conduct road marking, and place speed humps where necessary.

The maintenance of roadways enforcement is currently being done on a 24hour basis with foot patrols, with a focus on hotspots through spotting exercises, driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) exercise and speeding, to reduce accidents on the roadways.

Just recently, scores of motorcyclists were urged

by Minister Benn to protect themselves and take necessary actions to protect their wellbeing and their families from being hurt.

He made the call while distributing free helmets to motorists and cyclists near the junction of the Demerara Harbour Bridge and the East Bank Demerara public road.

During the campaign, a total of 30 helmets were distributed.

16 NEWS

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Contraband items found during Superintendent Wilson to take charge of Region 9 Police Division prison raids at Timehri, NA

T

T

he Joint Services Unit recently conducted searches at the New Amsterdam and Timehri Prisons during which a number of contraband items were unearthed.

Police stated that during their search at the New Amsterdam Prison, 25 grams of cannabis, two cell phones, one Digicel SIM card, a number of cell phone chargers, a number of cigarettes, and a number of lighters were found.

Meanwhile, a search conducted by Police ranks of

The items that were found at the Timehri Prison

wo months after Police Commander of Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo) Keithon King was busted with smuggled liquor in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), he will be replaced by a new Commander.

In a statement on Sunday, Police said King will be replaced by Superintendent Karl Wilson and that King is currently ensuring a smooth hand over of duties to the incoming Commander, which will aid in his success in his new command post.

“As the Guyana Police Force continues to restructure to effectively carry out its mandate of service and protection to the people of Guyana, relocation of key personnel is a necessary requirement,” the statement further related.

Police Commander of Region Nine Keithon King

Superintendent Wilson once served as the Deputy Commander of Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), and Deputy Commander for Region Four B (East Bank Demerara) and as SubDivisional Officer for various Regions.

In December of last year,

Commander King and two other ranks were busted with a quantity of smuggled rum after he left his district in the Police pick-up and was heading to Georgetown.

Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) officers had received a tip-off about smuggling activities and intercepted the pick-up.

The vehicle was searched and 38 cartons - of which 30 were Black Stone Whisky and the remaining cases were cologne - were found.

Following the incident, King had offered to pay the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) the taxes for the commodities, but it is still unclear whether GRA has accepted the offer made by the commander.

Despite the incident, the Commander and the two ranks remain on duty.

COVID-19 gazetted measures: 22:30h to 04:00h curfew remains in effect

T

The items that were found at the New Amsterdam Prison

the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), along with prison officers at the Timehri Prison, East Bank Demerara (EBD), unearthed six cell phones, a lighter, a quantity of “strong wine” in 10 assorted bottles, a quantity of cement, one cell phone battery, one cell phone headpiece, four improvised weapons, 40 razor blades, a cell phone charger and a cell phone adapter.

Only two days it was reported that several mobile phones, improvised weapons and other gadgets were

found in the holding bay and compound of the Georgetown Prison.

The search, which was conducted by Police and members of the Guyana Prison Service, started at 06:30h and ended at about 11:00h. During the raid, nine cell phones, one cell phone battery, four cell phone chargers, 10 cigarette lighters, five improvised weapons and one knife were unearthed.

In addition, a search was also conducted at the

Mazaruni Prison by members of the Guyana Police Force and prison officials, which lasted about five hours. During that search, the ranks unearthed 34 used razor blades, 21 improvised weapons, three knives, one pair of scissors, one mobile phone, 18 cigarette lighters, seven bottles of fermented wine, three makeshift chargers, eight packs of playing cards, a quantity of cement mix with sand, a container of cream paint and four cigarettes.

he Health Ministry continues to keep strict measures in place to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. The national curfew remains in place from 22:30h to 04:00h (4:00am to 10:30pm).for the month of March.

This was published in the Official Gazette on Friday.

Aside from the curfew, much of the previous orders remain in place.

There would be continuous monitoring to assess the pandemic at the workplace and to ensure that there is a period of quarantine or isolation approved by the Health Ministry before resumption of work.

Banks, supermarkets, shops, beauty salons, barbershops, gas stations and stores

such as those selling clothing, shoes, books, hardware and plumbing are allowed to operate between the hours of 04:00h and 21:30h (4:00am to 9:30pm).

While buffet dining is prohibited, indoor and outdoor dining at restaurants and bars are permitted following strict COVID-19 guidelines.

All essential services – such as hospitals, pharmacies, funeral homes, airports, hotels, and the Judiciary – are allowed to operate on a 24-hour basis.

Restrictions remain in place on visiting, hosting, or attending private parties, wakes, clubs, receptions, and any other social activity, including going to the cinema.

Gyms, fitness centres, and places of worship can operate

at limited capacity.

As of February 26, Guyana has recorded 8513 confirmed cases of COVID-19, with 7945 recoveries and 195 deaths.

On Friday, Dr Frank Anthony said Guyana would be receiving 80,000 doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine from India next week. It is also set to receive 104,000 doses of a COVID-19 vaccine through the COVAX mechanism, another 149,000 doses through a purchase agreement under a CaricomAfrican Union agreement and a donation of 20,000 Sinopharm vaccines from the Chinese Government.

On February 10, Guyana received a donation of 3000 doses of the OxfordAstraZeneca vaccine from Barbados.

7 injured in 5-vehicle collision in NA

A

t least seven persons were injured on Saturday evening following a 5-vehicle collision at New Amsterdam, Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

The accident, which occurred at about 21:45h, left two pedestrians, three occupants and two drivers injured.

The pedestrians were

The damaged vehicles after the accident on Saturday evening

identified as Gregory Fraser, 33, of Kilcoy/ Chesney, Corentyne and Trevaun Wiggins, 20, of Rose Hall Town, Corentyne.

Both were standing between two parked vehicles while the injured occupants were identified as Kenicia Fraser, 26, and her 17-month-old baby, Sienna Fraser, both of Chesney

Village. Arata Larose, 30, of Alness, Corentyne, was also injured.

The injured drivers are Kurt Edwards, 26, of Tucber Park, New Amsterdam, and Keith Harry, 41, of 59 Stanleytown, New Amsterdam.

According to information received, Edwards was driving a motor car bearing registration number PSS

4863 along the main access street at a fast rate of speed. However, as he approached Main Street, he swerved and in so doing, the left side of the car collided with the right side of another car, PLL 6046, driven by Harry, which was proceeding in the opposite direction along Main Street.

As a result of the im-

pact, Harry lost control of his vehicle which spun and collided into the left side of PVV 58, which was stationary at the time.

The car then shifted and collided with PMM 9361, which was also parked.

Harry also slammed into

PXX 9821.

The injured people were taken to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital by public-spirited citizens. The drivers were treated and handed over to the Police as an investigation was launched.

NEWS

17

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Health Ministry takes medical outreach to Region 10 220 hinterland communities to receive − as specialists make home visits in riverine communities $300M in Presidential Grants — Minister Sukhai

Director General of the Health Ministry, Dr Vishwa Mahadeo

Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai during her budget presentation on Friday

A

merindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai has said 220 Amerindian villages and communities would benefit from Presidential Grant funds totalling $300 million this year.

Sukhai told the National Assembly on Friday that the funds would be used to pursue sustainable community projects.

She noted that over the past three months, 213 Amerindian villages accessed their 2020 Presidential Grant funds with little to no hassle.

The Amerindian Affairs Minister called out the former Administration for the manner in which it distributed the grants over the last five years. She said no effort was made to increase the funds.

“In fact, Mr Speaker, they put on conditions and requirements for accessing the Presidential Grant that only a mere 40 per cent of the communities and villages across the hinterland were able to access those funds to stim-

ulate some form of economic activities in those villages.

That is a complete shameful act,” she said.

The Presidential Grant programme started under the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Administration in 2007. It is one of the major interventions undertaken to boost economic and social development for Amerindians in their respective communities.

Villages and communities receive up to $2 million based on their population size to support projects including the procurement of boats, engines, buses, tractors and trailers, and all-terrain vehicles.

The programme also covers agricultural enterprises such as cattle and poultry rearing, cash crop farming, and tourism ventures. The construction of pavilions, multi-purpose halls, village offices, village shops, roads, trails, bridges, and revetments are also funded under the Presidential Grant programme.

R

esidents of the Malali and Muritaro communities along the Demerara River in Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) had their medical concerns addressed during a specialised medical outreach on Saturday.

The initiative is a collaborative effort between the Health Ministry and the region’s health office.

Director General at the Health Ministry, Dr Vishwa Mahadeo headed the exercise and worked along with visiting doctors and specialists, to address health concerns such as diabetes, dental hygiene and dentistry, ophthalmology and rehabilitation of persons recovering from strokes.

“It’s more than the usual outreach; it’s the direction in which we are going, taking health care to the people. It has already started in Region One, Region Nine and Region Eight. So, bringing it into the interior and the riverine communities in Region 10 is actually the fourth step that we are taking this di-

rection,” Dr Mahadeo told the Department of Public Information (DPI) during the outreach.

He explained that the initiative is a directive from President Dr Irfaan Ali, for healthcare services to be made more accessible to all Guyanese.

In January, during an outreach to the region led

by His Excellency, he had instructed, in keeping with the manifesto of the PPP/C, that there must be equitable and equal healthcare countrywide. President Ali had also singled out the

Dr Josh Kanhai and a patient at the Malali Health Centre

Specialised medical outreach to Malali and Muritaro in Region 10

care of expectant mothers as very important.

“It’s a case of bringing in experts, specialists to deal

with patients, so for example, we have and will be visiting the home of those bedridden patients, taking the diabetic foot care to them, taking the rehab staff there so that they could advise relatives about what kinds of exercises the patient would need to do.

The next outreach is also going to include ultrasound, so those who have need for ultrasound, especially pregnant women, they will have their ultrasound done within the community and they don’t have to go to Linden.

The team that visited Region 10 on Saturday branched off to cover the 47 and 58 Miles, Mabura area

as well.

“We are gathering data and making a list of the patients that need surgical intervention, so when we get all of this, we can go onto the next stage of providing that to patients also,” Dr Mahadeo explained.

He added that each outreach will be followed up by the visit of a doctor, one month after the specialised exercise was held.

Saturday’s team included Regional Health Officer for Region 10, Dr Gregory Harris, local medical staff and several specialists from the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021

Regional

Voters go to the polls in El Salvador World Bank-UNESCO report finds C’bean

V

oters cast their ballots in El Salvador on Sunday, as President Nayib Bukele’s New Ideas party (Nuevas Ideas) was expected to make major gains in the legislative and local elections.

Salvadorans are choosing 84 legislators to represent them in the national assembly for the next three years, as well as 262 municipal councils.

Opinion polls released before the vote showed Bukele’s party with about 70 per cent support – and a strong chance of securing more than half of the mayoral positions and enough seats to hold at least a simple majority in Congress.

Bukele, who took office in 2019, came to power on a promise to root out corruption and offer an alternative to El Salvador’s main political parties, left-wing FMLN and right-wing ARENA. ARENA currently holds 37 of the 84 seats in Congress and controls 138 of the 262 municipal councils, while FMLN holds 23 congressional seats and 64 municipal councils.

cutting education budgets due to COVID-19

A

A woman casts her vote during the municipal and parliamentary elections at a polling station in San Salvador, El Salvador, on Sunday [Jose Cabezas/Reuters]

Tens of thousands of Police, soldiers and international observers have been deployed to oversee the vote.

“We hope to have a peaceful election day, a truly civic celebration crowned by massive participation of the electorate,” Dora Martinez, President of the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) told national TV. Earlier this month, the TSE called for international observers to be sent early after two FMLN activists were killed and five others

were injured in a shooting in the capital, San Salvador.

Observers said it was one of the worst political attacks in decades.

Tensions have been rising in advance of the legislative polls, as civil society groups raised concerns that a strong showing for Bukele’s party could see him consolidate power. will be released a few hours after polls close at 5pm (23:00 GMT) on Sunday. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

new joint report by the World Bank and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has found that Caribbean and other countries are cutting their education budgets due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Washington-based financial institution and the Paris-based UNESCO Education Finance Watch (EFW) said that education budgets were not adjusting proportionately to the challenges brought about

by COVID-19, especially in poorer countries.

Despite additional fund-

ing needs, the new reports says that two-thirds of lowand lower-middle-income countries, such as those in the Caribbean, have, in fact, cut their public education budgets since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In comparison, only onethird of upper-middle and high-income countries have reduced their budgets, the report says.

“These budget cuts have been relatively small thus far, but there is a danger that future cuts will be larger, as the pandemic continues to take its economic toll, and fiscal positions worsen,” the report says. “These dif-

fering trends imply a significant widening of the already large spending disparities seen between lowand high-income countries.”

According to the new report, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, in 2018-19, high-income countries were spending annually the equivalent of US$8,501 for every child or youth’s education compared to US$48 in low-income countries.

The report says COVID-19 is only widening this huge per-capita education spending gap between rich and poor countries.

(CMC)

Dominican Republic announces plans for Haiti border fence

Brazilian capital starts 2-week coronavirus lockdown

B

rasília, the capital city of Brazil, has entered a two-week coronavirus lockdown as intensive care beds fill up in multiple cities, the Associated Press reports.

The AP reports Brazil recorded 1541 deaths last Thursday, marking the deadliest day the country has reported since the pandemic started.

Eighty-five per cent of beds in the federal district, where Brasília is located, were occupied as of Sunday.

Brasilia Governor Ibaneis Rocha announced that all bars, restaurants, shopping

malls, and schools would be closed until March 15. Alcohol sales were barred past 20:00h.

According to data from Johns Hopkins University, Brazil ranks second only to the US in terms of coronavirus deaths. The country has confirmed 254,221 deaths and more than 10 million coronavirus cases, according to the university’s tracker.

The AP notes Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro rebuked the mitigation measures, writing on Twitter, “The people want to work.”

Bolsonaro reportedly threatened to cut off federal

emergency funds to states that issue lockdowns.

Brazil fully approved the Pfizer and BioNTech vaccine last week, though Reuters reports the country does not have any doses to distribute due to disputes over a supply deal. The vaccines developed

by AstraZeneca and Sinovac Biotech have been granted emergency use authorisation.

At least eight Brazilian states adopted curfews over the past week due to the rise in cases and deaths from COVID-19. (Excerpt from The Hill)

Barbados Coast Guard conducts successful search and rescue operation

A

The Barbados Coast Guard completed a successful search and rescue operation, February 28, 2021

paddle boarder reported feeling “nauseous and weak” after being rescued by the Barbados Coast Guard off Brandon’s Beach in St Michael earlier Sunday.

“Reports were of two paddle-boarders encountering difficulties at sea in the area of Brandon’s Beach. One of the sea-boarders was able to make it to the shore,” according to a statement issued by the Barbados Defence Force.

“The prevailing sea con-

ditions and high winds compounded the search efforts. However, the second paddle-boarder was located 4.8 nautical miles west off the Bridgetown Port at 11:40h. The individual was rescued and returned to HMBS PELICAN, experiencing nausea and weakness. Through evaluation, he showed no signs of medical distress.”

The statement reminded the public that the “maritime environment is a dy-

namic and unforgiving force of nature”.

“This environment is further exacerbated by abnormal weather and oceanographic conditions, currently being experienced in Barbados. This rescue operation illustrates the significant distance a person a person/object can travel, in three hours, under the present conditions of high surface winds and strong currents.”

(Excerpt from Barbados Nation)

The Dominican Republic tightly controls the border with its impoverished neighbour, Haiti

T

he President of the Dominican Republic has announced plans to build a fence along its border with Haiti, which extends for about 380 kilometres (236 miles).

Luis Abinader said the barrier would help curb illegal immigration, drugs, and the flow of stolen vehicles between the two countries, which share the Caribbean island of Hispaniola.

Abinader said work on the barrier would start later this year.

Haiti is one of the poorest nations in the Western Hemisphere.

Relations between the two neighbours have been historically difficult.

“In a period of two years, we want to put an end to the serious problems of illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and the movement of stolen vehicles,” Abinader said in an address to Congress.

The cost of the project has not been disclosed.

Abinader said the barrier in some “conflictive” sections would include a double-fence along with motion sensors, infrared systems and facial recognition cameras.

The Dominican Republic,

which has a population of about 11 million, has already constructed some stretches of fencing along the border.

It is estimated that about 500,000 Haitian migrants are living in the country - many of them there illegally. In January, the Government agreed to help Haiti provide identity papers to its citizens living in Dominican territory.

In 2015, Haiti called on the Dominican Republic to delay the planned deportation of thousands of Haitians. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Cuba, Venezuela must make democratic reforms to improve relationship – US Embassy in T&T

T

he United States and T&T have a good relationship, but don’t see eye to eye on every issue, especially the Venezuelan issue.

In response to a question from the Sunday Guardian on the relationship between the United States and Venezuela and the United States and Cuba, the US Embassy said that the US wanted what was best for both countries, but these coun-

tries must make democratic reforms if the relationship was to improve.

This comes as Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley called on the US to improve its relationship with both countries for the benefit of the Caribbean region.

Rowley said the US “scorched-earth policy” is wreaking havoc on Venezuela which is destabilising the Region.

Speaking virtually

as Chairman of Caricom during a question-and-answer segment hosted by the non-partisan organisation the Atlantic Council on Thursday, Dr Rowley also said the entire Caribbean would benefit from a significant thawing of the relationship between Cuba and the US. In its statement, the US Embassy justified its position on Venezuela and Cuba. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

guyanatimesgy.com

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021

19

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS All eyes on OPEC as global oil supply imbalance may force output revision

F

rom trading houses in Geneva to Wall Street banks, much of the oil world agrees that global markets could use some more barrels. The big question is whether OPEC+ will provide enough of them.

A crude glut that piled up during the pandemic is vanishing fast.

Global inventories are plunging at the steepest rate in two decades, according to Morgan Stanley. Prices have rallied to pre-virus levels, while US production has taken a hit from freezing storms. Talk swirls of market supercycles, and even the return of US$100 oil.

With the need for more supply evident, traders expect the OPEC+ coalition, led by Saudi Arabia and Russia, will agree to increase production when it meets on March 4, reversing some of the output cuts made last year.

But it’s unclear if the group will act vigorously enough. Wary of the virus’s persisting threat to demand, Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman has urged fellow producers to remain “extremely cautious.”

If the alliance agrees an output hike that falls short of requirements, however, it could trigger a further price surge -- and the group would be forced to deal with its unwelcome consequences.

The Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies rescued the global oil industry from an unprecedented slump last year by slashing production when the coronavirus crisis pummeled demand. The strategy has revived international benchmark Brent crude to US$67 a barrel, shoring up revenues for the producers’ battered economies.

The 23-nation coalition continues to idle just over 7 million barrels of daily output -- about 7 per cent of global supply -- and on Thursday will decide whether to revive a 500,000-barrel tranche in April. In addition, the Saudis will confirm whether an extra 1 million barrels they’ve recently taken offline will return as scheduled.

Global oil markets are signalling that they could comfortably absorb the full complement of 1.5 million barrels.

Demand in China, the world’s biggest oil importer, is back above pre-virus levels as its containment of the disease allows much of normal life and economic activity to resume. India, another key customer, warns that high prices are jeopardising the global economic recovery. Propelled by cold weather, fuel use in Japan, the fourth-largest oil consumer, posted in January its first year-on-year increase since mid-2019.

In the US, stockpiles of crude oil and refined products are back near levels last seen a year ago. Though demand for aviation fuels remains depressed, purchases of products that cater to working and consuming at home -- like diesel for trucks and plastics -- have boomed.

OPEC’s own data show it can go ahead with this year’s scheduled production increases and still manage to deplete world oil inventories, whittling them down to their five-year average -- the group’s desired target -- by August.

Futures markets testify that supplies are tightening sharply.

Near-term Brent contracts are commanding a sizable premium over later months known as backwardation, with the six-month spread standing at US$3.22 a barrel. That reflects “a sustained, strong short-term deficit” of about 2 million to 3 million barrels a day, according to Giovanni Serio, global head of market analysis at Vitol Group, the world’s biggest oil trader.

The shift to a tightening market has sparked a wave of bullish projections.

Goldman Sachs Group Inc sees Brent hitting US$75 a barrel in the third quarter as a new commodities supercycle beckons, while trading giant Trafigura Group says it’s “very bullish” on the months ahead. Socar Trading SA, a unit of Azerbaijan’s state oil company, predicts US$80 could be reached this summer and triple digits within two years.

It’s still unclear what exactly OPEC+ will decide.

Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak has signalled that the country once again wants to proceed with an increase, noting on Feb 14 that “the market is balanced” already. Saudi Arabia sounds more reserved, urging its counterparts to recall the “scars” of last year’s collapse.

Prices are still far below the levels most OPEC nations need to cover Government spending, and the International Energy Agency -- a leading forecaster -- anticipates a market setback in the second quarter as a seasonal lull briefly causes inventories to accumulate again.

If Riyadh wants to limit the overall size of the group’s increase, it has a powerful bargaining chip: the pace it chooses to return the extra 1-million barrel cutback that’s supposed to expire at the end of next month.

But for some in the market, the kingdom should instead be opening the taps wide. Keeping prices high will only rekindle investment by US shale drillers, they contend, and bring a flood of new supply that cancels out OPEC’s hard work. (Excerpt from World Oil)

New York Governor Cuomo faces fresh claims of sexual harassment

A

second former aide has come forward with accusations of sexual harassment against New York Governor Andrew Cuomo.

Charlotte Bennett, a health policy adviser to Cuomo until November, told The New York Times that he had harassed her last year.

Cuomo has denied any inappropriate behaviour and ordered an independent inquiry into the allegations.

Another former aide, Lindsey Boylan, has previously accused the Governor of sexually harassing her.

Cuomo, 63, who has been Governor for more than a decade, has found himself under pressure on several fronts in recent weeks.

He is under scrutiny from

Andrew Cuomo became one of America's most influential Democrats at the start of the pandemic

the Democratic Party - of which he is a member - for allegedly hiding the true number of COVID-related deaths in New York care homes.

Cuomo has also faced allegations of bullying, including from New York City Mayor

Bill de Blasio.

Bennett, 25, told the New York Times that the Governor had asked her numerous questions about her personal life including whether she believed that age made a difference in romantic relation-

ships.

She said he had also suggested that he was open to relationships with women in their 20s. Bennett said she believed the comments were clear overtures to a sexual relationship.

Bennett said she informed Cuomo's chief of staff, Jill DesRosiers, after the interaction and less than a week later was transferred to another job.

She said she had decided not to seek a formal investigation because she "wanted to move on". No action was taken against Cuomo.

In a statement released on Saturday, Cuomo said he believed he had been acting as a mentor to Bennett. (Excerpt from BBC News)

At least 18 killed in Myanmar on bloodiest day of protests against coup

M

yanmar Police fired on protesters around the country on Sunday in the bloodiest day of weeks of demonstrations against a military coup and at least 18 people were killed, the UN human rights office said.

Police were out in force early and opened fire in different parts of the biggest city of Yangon after stun grenades, tear gas and shots in the air failed to break up crowds. Soldiers also reinforced Police.

Several wounded people were hauled away by fellow protesters, leaving bloody smears on pavements, media images showed. One man

died after being brought to a hospital with a bullet in the chest, said a doctor who asked not to be identified.

Myanmar has been in chaos since the army seized power and detained elect-

ed Government leader Aung San Suu Kyi and much of her party leadership on Feb. 1, alleging fraud in a November election her party won in a landslide.

The coup, which brought

a halt to tentative steps towards democracy after nearly 50 years of military rule, has drawn hundreds of thousands onto the streets and the condemnation of Western countries.

Nevertheless, at least 21 protesters have now died in the turmoil. The army said a policeman had been killed.

The crackdown would appear to indicate determination by the military to impose its authority in the face of defiance, not just on the streets but more broadly in the civil service, municipal administration, the Judiciary, the education and health sectors and the media. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Indian rooster kills owner during cockfight

A

rooster fitted with a knife for an illegal cockfight in southern India has killed its owner, sparking a manhunt for the organisers of the event.

The bird had a knife attached to its leg when it inflicted serious wounds to the man’s groin as it tried to escape, Police said on Sunday.

The victim, Thangulla Satish, 45, died from loss of blood before he could reach a hospital in the Karimnagar

district of Telangana state last week, said Police Officer B Jeevan.

“Satish was hit by the rooster’s knife in his groin and started bleeding heavily,” the officer said.

The rooster was briefly held at the local Police station before it was sent to a poultry farm. “We may need to produce it before the court,” said Jeevan.

Satish was one of 16 people organising the cockfight in the

village of Lothunur, Jeevan said.

“We are searching for the other 15 people involved in organising the illegal fight,” Jeevan said.

They could face charges of manslaughter, illegal betting and hosting a cockfight.

Cockfights are banned but still common in rural areas of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Odisha states – particularly around the Hindu festival of Sankranti.

Specially bred roosters have 7.5-centimetre (three-inch) knives or blades tied to their legs and punters bet on who will win the gruesome fight.

Battles continue until one contestant is either dead or flees, declaring the other rooster the winner.

Thousands of roosters die each year in the competitions which, despite the efforts of animal rights groups, attract large crowds. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

“Protecting dignity”: Iran’s push to fight violence against women

A

fter almost a decade in the making, Iran may finally be on track to pass legislation that, while far from perfect, would signal progress in addressing a wide range of issues relating to violence against women.

A draft bill called Protection, Dignity, and Security of Women Against Violence, which has been in the works since the Administration of former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, was approved by the Government in early

January.

While the Administration of President Hassan Rouhani hopes to turn the bill into law before he finishes his second tenure in June, the bill must first clear the Parliament and the constitutional vetting body called the Guardian Council, which consists of jurists and religious experts.

Parliament, which has been at odds with the Government over Iran’s nuclear deal with world powers and the annual budget bill among other

things, has yet to begin work on the legislation.

The bill finalised by the Government is the result of years of work by different factions of the Administration in addition to dozens of legal experts, Judges and executives at the Judiciary.

The Judiciary, under the new leadership of former presidential candidate Ebrahim Raisi since early 2019, finished its lengthy review in September 2019.

However, the bill may face

opposition at the conservative Parliament, and the powerful Guardian Council, which about two decades ago rejected a bill to join the United Nations Convention on Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

That bill has been in a legislative deadlock ever since as Iran remains one of only four countries in the world not to have ratified the convention. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

20

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021

guyanatimesgy.com

ARCHIE

ARIES

(March 21April 19)

DILBERT

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

Consider every angle of a situation before you speak up. Getting your facts straight and keeping your emotions out of the equation will help you navigate your way through a tricky transition.

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

Concentrate on gathering knowledge, making preparations and reaching out to people who share your interests and goals. Look for opportunities to stabilize your finances.

Stick to the truth in all things.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

Focus on gaining ground financially, professionally or contractually. Having a plan in place that will separate you from the competition is crucial if you want to advance. Romance is favored.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Don't let someone talk you into something that doesn't fit your schedule.

Discipline, education and partnerships with people who share your beliefs and concerns will be necessary.

PEANUTS

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

SUDOKU

Do what you can and keep moving forward. Seek out people who can help you make a professional change. A partnership will lead to a new opportunity and a chance to fulfill a long-term goal.

Take care of your responsibilities before you move on to guilty pleasures. You'll enjoy your downtime more if you have nothing hanging over your head. Make special arrangements with a loved one.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Make a point to get things done, even if you face distractions. Refuse to let anyone push you around, take advantage of you financially or back you into a corner. Finish what you start.

SCORPIO

Look over your choices and use what's available to come up with something original. Fixing up your space to suit your needs will encourage you to work hard and think big.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SAGITTARIUS Call on acquaintances to help you start pursuing a (Nov. 23goal. Keep anyone who tries Dec. 21)

to interfere at arm's length.

Opportunity begins with you; stick to your plans. Prioritize your plans.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19) SATURDAY'S WORD - FINALLY

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

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

Refuse to let your emotions take control when discipline and facts are required.

Approach your peers and family with direct questions, and don't be afraid to voice your concerns.

Take care of money matters and problems that involve institutions swiftly and with proper documentation to avoid future setbacks. Don't trust anyone to do the work that you're responsible for.

Help those who have helped you, and you'll gain respect and a better relationship with people you can count on.

A change of plans will allow you to spend more time with a loved one.

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021

21

“Hetmyer's form doesn't count” – CWI DoC Adams insists players aware fitness standards must be met before selection

C

ricket West Indies (CWI) Director of Cricket, Jimmy Adam, has insisted that players are well aware of the minimum fitness requirements needed to be considered for selection before even individual form is considered.

Based on an agreement between CWI and the West Indies Player Association (WIPA), players must achieve a rating of 40 during the evaluative yoyo fitness test to be considered for selection.

Adams’ comments come on the back of the recent non-selection of talented batsman Shimron Hetmyer for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka.

Jimmy Adams

The 24-year-old had looked in splendid form, scoring a majestic 112 in the semi-finals of the CG Insurance Super50 competition that lifted Guyana to the final.

Hetmyer, however, clearly fell below the 40 per cent stipulation.

“The policy asks for a minimum standard in cer-

tain aspects of the fitness testing. So on the yoyo intermittent test, that minimum standard is 40 and for a couple of years, we have had selection tied to the achievement of that minimum standard,” Adams told members of the media via an online press conference on Saturday.

“It’s pretty simple and all the players are aware of it.

Failure to get to 40 makes them unavailable for selection. So, when the panel sits, the first thing that they will consider, before looking at the teams and the squads they want to put together, is who are the players that are available through achieving

Guyanese Karate Master Frank Woon-A-Tai, 9th Dan, celebrates 10th anniversary of IKD

"W

hat an amazing, successful, and rewarding journey it has been since I decided, along with my loyal colleagues, to form the International Karate Daigaku (University) 10 years ago!" world-renowned Master Frank Woon-A-Tai declared.

Flashback to February 2011: "if anyone had told me before this historical month that I would make the greatest decision of my karate life, I would have said ‘no way’".

Addressed as Master Frank in Guyana, Shuseki Shihan (World Organisation Chief Instructor) internationally or simply Sensei, Woon-ATai, in 10 years, has amassed a phenomenal record of 80 regions in 56 countries under his direction practising a single karate style with lineage to traditional Japanese founders and legends Masatoshi Nakayama, Hidetaka Nishiyama, Teruyuki Okazaki, Yutaka Yaguchi and all other masters of the "Golden Era" of the Japan Karate Association.

Moreover, he was conferred with the Guyana National Medal of Service (MS) from then President Bharrat Jagdeo, who, a year before, granted him an acre of land at Liliendaal to build the Guyana Karate College (GKC), a non-profit organisation.

In 2012 and 2015 Woon-

A-Tai successfully hosted the IKD First and Second World Cup in Toronto, Canada and the IKD Barbados Campus hosted the 2018 World Cup in Bridgetown. Plans for the fourth World Cup scheduled to be held in Toronto in 2021 had to be postponed owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. Woon-A-Tai is hoping that with the Guyana Government's assistance and the completion of the GKC International dojo at Liliendaal, h e would be able t o host the F o u r t h World Cup in Guyana to highlight his art,

prov i d e jobs, a n d p r o mote karat e

sports t o u r ism.

His dream is also to complete on the same site, the GKC Budokan Complex, a four-storey building

that will house a Martial Arts Arena on the ground floor, student dormitories on the second floor, one and two-bedroom apartments for officials on the third, and a restaurant on the fourth floor that will each day prepare cuisine representing the diversity of the six groups of Guyanese people.

As Shuseki Shihan, Woon-A-Tai has developed a powerful IKD Technical Board of Masters, with the IKD Executive comprising himself and Eighth Dan deputies, Dr Dexter Shim (Trinidad and Tobago) and Maureen Woon-A-Tai (Guyana/Canada).

Following them are the Shihan-kai Senate with Eighth-Dan and AAA credentials.

The next level is the Shihan-kai, Eighth and Seventh-Dan masters with AAA credentials.

Those with Seventh Dan, but without "A" credentials are Shihan.

Not to be outdone by the pandemic, WoonA-Tai designated the entire 2021 for world members to celebrate safely, according to the COVID-19 guidelines in their region, the 10th anniversary of the IKD. Before the pandemic, he travelled more than eight months per year, flying Guyana’s flag across the world.

Shimron Hetmyer

that minimum standard,” he added.

The occasion was the second that Hetmyer

missed out on making the min- i mum fitness standard, after failing a fitness test ahead of a tour against Sri Lanka in February of last year. The player last represented the team in the New Zealand series in November and was called up, but opted out of the tour to Bangladesh earlier this month. The test is conducted twice per year.

(Sportsmax)

NBA round-up:

Utah Jazz beat Orlando Magic; Dallas Mavericks win against Brooklyn Nets

D

onovan Mitchell starred with 31 points as the Utah Jazz returned to their winning ways with a 124-109 victory over the Orlando Magic.

Guard Mitchell contributed five three-pointers and six assists for Utah, who suffered a rare loss to the Miami Heat on Friday, with Jordan Clarkson and Joe Ingles scoring 18 and 17 points each. Nikola Vucevic scored 34 points for the Magic, who have lost three in a row.

The Dallas Mavericks were also back on track by beating the Brooklyn Nets.

Luka Doncic scored 27 points for the Mavericks,

with the returning Kristaps Porzingis contributing 18, as they triumphed 115-98 and ended the Nets' season-high eight-game winning streak.

Bradley Beal scored a game-high 34 points and Russell Westbrook recorded a second straight triple-double with 19 points for the Washington Wolves in a 128-112 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Karl-Anthony Towns topscored with 23 for the Wolves, but could not prevent a seventh loss in a row.

Meanwhile, the San Antonio Spurs beat the New Orleans Pelicans 117114, with DeMar DeRozan

claiming 32 points and 11 assists. Collin Sexton scored 28 points and Darius Garland added 25 to help the Cleveland Cavaliers, who only had nine players available, overcome the Philadelphia 76ers in a 112-109 victory in overtime.

The Indiana Pacers fell to their eighth defeat in their past 11 games as the New York Knicks recovered from a 16-point halftime deficit to win 110-107 – Julius Randle collecting 28 points. And the Denver Nuggets sealed a 126-96 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder, with Nikola Jokic claiming 19 points for the victors. (BBC Sport)

22

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021

S Jagmohan Hardware & Construction Services Golf Tournament…

Shaw walks away with top honours amid stiff competition

CLASSIFIED ADS LEARN TO DRIVE Shalom Enterprise Driving School 2 Croal Street, Stabroek You can also obtain an International Driving Permit covering over 134 Countries.

Contact us: 227-3835 / 627-6155.

WhatsApp: 619-0106. Join us on FaceBook.

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

GR Taxi

227-1982, 225-7878 219-5000, 227-2100 Wanted: Contract Cars Tel: 614-6202

WANTED One live-in Housekeeper. Must know how to cook. Preferably out of town.

Call : 681-8140

The winners alongside LGC President Patanjilee Persaud, LGC Secretary Chet Bowling and S Jagmohan Project Coordinator Vidya Mangalram

By Timothy Jaikarran

T

he S Jagmohan Hardware & Construction Services Golf Tournament came to a thrilling end on Saturday as a total of 33 of Guyana’s top golfers took to the course.

The competition saw some drama as the top three players ended in a three-way tie on 38 points, thus the countback system was used to determine the final positions in the keenly-contested competition.

Coming in at first place was Azurdeen Shaw, while in second and third respectively were Shanella London and Mike Mangal. Richard Haniff took fourth place on 37 points.

At the conclusion of the tournament, Lusignan Golf Club President Patanjilee Persaud addressed the gathering, “Let me thank everyone for coming out and playing this event, for taking part in this competitive sport. Let me thank the sponsors for supporting this event as they are efficient and timely in their work. We would also like to urge them to support the future events at the club, and supporting the sport of golf – as we know in this time the game of golf is COVIDfriendly, but it is also a sport that allows persons to be family oriented and safe.”

Also sharing her thoughts at the end of the tournament was Project Manager of S Jagmohan Hardware &

Construction Services, Vidya Mangalram, who noted that the company was proud to be a part of the prestigious tournament. She went on to state that S Jagmohan was one of Guyana’s leading construction companies and it was part of its core social responsibilities to be on board the tournament, adding that the company was extremely honoured.

S Jagmohan Hardware Supplies & Construction Services (SJHS&CS) is a Guyana-based supply and construction company with registered office at Lot 32 First Street, Campbellville, Georgetown, Guyana.

SJHS&CS has been in operation for more than 20 years and has now grown

Mike Mangal came in third

to become one of the largest construction companies in Guyana. The company continues to expand and diversify its investments, and while focusing primarily on infrastructural projects, SJHS&CS has ventured into sawmilling and water wells construction. With growing investments in infrastructure projects in Guyana and the increased demand for as-

phalt, the company is currently constructing a concrete plant and its second asphaltic concrete plant in Essequibo with the first at Madewini.

The LGC again thanked SJHS&CS for its contribution to the development of golf in Guyana. All COVID-19 precautionary measures were in place for the tournament.

3 Guyanese in 4-Day “Best v Best” West Indies squads

T

he Cricket West Indies (CWI) selection panel on Sunday named 26 players to participate in a “Best v Best” four-day practice match in preparation for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka.

The match will be held on March 8-11 at the Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG) ahead of the two Test matches, which will be played at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, in Antigua. Several members of the West Indies Test team

which b e a t Bangladesh in the recent series have

been named for the match while other recent Test squad players are participating in the CG Insurance ODI Series from March 10-14.

CWI Lead Selector Roger Harper explained the concept and outlined the details.

“The ‘Best v Best’ game is firstly part of our preparation for the Test series against Sri Lanka. It gives the players who performed well in the last West Indies Championship an opportunity to showcase their skills, playing against each other, which we expect to be very competitive and put forward a case for themselves. It is a chance to raise their stock and show what they can do,” Harper said.

“The Test series win in Bangladesh was a real joy to watch. The results were brilliant, but it was the passion, the application and the determination, as well as the team spirit that were exactly what we wanted to see. It was

2237230-1

(Ext 55)

NOW!

FULL MATCH SCHEDULE CCG – Coolidge Cricket Ground SVRS – Sir Vivian Richards Stadium March 3: 1st T20I at CCG – 6pm Eastern Caribbean Time (ECT), 5pm Jamaica Time (JT) March 5: 2nd T20I at CCG – 6pm ECT/ 5pm JT March 7: 3rd T20I at CCG – 6pm ECT/5pm JT March 10: 1st CG Insurance ODI at SVRS – 9:30am ECT/ 8:30am JT March 12: 2nd CG Insurance ODI at SVRS – 9:30am ECT/8:30am JT March 14: 3rd CG Insurance ODI at SVRS – 1:30pm ECT/12:30pm JT (day/night) March 17-18: two-day warm-up match at CCG – 10am ECT, 9am JT March 21-25: 1st Test at SVRS – 10am ECT/9am JT March 29 to April 2: 2nd Test at SVRS – 10am ECT/9am JT

most encouraging to see everyone pulling together and working hard for each other and enjoying each other’s success. I think the team performed much better than many people thought they were capable of doing. I am really looking forward to seeing the team move forward and build from here.”

SQUAD A: Kraigg Brathwaite (Captain); Shamarh Brooks; Rahkeem Cornwall; Joshua Da Silva; Derval Green; Keon Harding; Shimron Hetmyer; Kavem Hodge; Paul Palmer Jr; Veerasammy Permaul; Kieran Powell; Preston McSween and Jayden Seales.

SQUAD B: Roston Chase (Captain); Sunil

Ambris; Nkrumah Bonner; Jermaine Blackwood; John Campbell; Jahmar Hamilton; Chemar Holder; Imran Khan; Marquino Mindley; Shayne Moseley; Raymon Reifer; Nial Smith, and Jomel Warrican.

Kemar Roach and Shannon Gabriel have been rested for this match due to workload management.

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

23

BCB/Nagamootoo Brothers Challenge Cup...

Whim Cricket Club emerge as champions

Turbo Jagdeo had a good outing with the ball for Rose Hall Tigers Story and photos By Brandon Corlette

T

he Whim Community Centre Cricket Club defeated the Rose Hall Town Tigers by 31 runs to clinch the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB)/Nagamootoo Brothers Challenge Cup. Player of the Match Vinode Samaroo set the Whim Community Centre on fire with a blistering 77 to take Whim to a competitive score of 160-8 in their allotted 15 overs while Rose Hall Tigers were restricted

to 129 all out in 14.2 overs.

Batting first, Whim began in scorching fashion despite losing an early wicket. Samaroo and Moonsammy Veerasammy destroyed the Tigers’ bowling and took advantage of the poor fielding. Veerasammy was dismissed for 30 which included three fours and one six. Samaroo continued to blaze away and he was well supported by Kumar Motoin, who scored 34, decorated with three fours and one six.

The right-handed Samaroo, who looked set for a century

Captain Tameshwar Harrinarine receiving the winning trophy from the daughter of Mahendra Nagamootoo, Natalie Nagamootoo

– sizing up the Tigers bowlers with the aim of slamming the ball towards the Whim Police Station, was dismissed for 77, which included eight towering sixes and three fours. Bowling for the jaded Tigers, veteran Kemraj “Tadpole” Mahadeo claimed 4-14 in three impressive overs while skipper Turbo Jagdeo had 2-18 in his three overs.

Batting in response, the Tigers looked rusty and luck was not on their side in terms of umpires' decisions. Former national youth player Balchand

Baldeo (09), former national wicket-keeper Delbert Hicks (05), Mark Papanah (03) and the prized scalp of Mahadeo (00) all fell cheaply as Whim opened the floodgates early.

The brother of West Indies player Veerasammy Permaul, Veerapen Permaul was the lone resistor with the bat for the Tigers, scoring an attractive 55, which was decorated with six fours and two sixes.

The Whim bowlers proved a handful as Rose Hall Town Tigers ended on 129 all out in 14.2 overs. The Harrinarine

Player of the Match Vinode Samaroo slammed 77

brothers did the damage with the ball. Tameshwar claimed 3-14 in three overs while seamer Yogishwar had 2-19 in three overs.

Earlier in the three-match challenge, Tigers defeated Belvidere United in a lowscoring match. Tigers, batting first, scored 55 all out, with Jagdeo being the stand-out player scoring 12 and he returned with the ball to pick up four wickets to bowl out United for 38 in 10 overs.

Whim had earlier trounced Tain Block Four to advance to

the final.

In collaboration with the vibrant BCB, this tournament was sponsored by former Guyana player Vishal Nagamootoo and his brother, Mahendra Nagamootoo, a former West Indies player. At the presentation, Mahendra’s daughter Natalie presented the winner and runner-up team trophies and Playerof-the-Match medal, and a special wicketkeeping kit was presented to the Whim wicketkeeper.

GGOTA plans CPR course next month, Health and Wellness Workshop in May

Team Mohamed’s Nissan GTR “Godzilla” resets strip record with 7.5s pass

he executive members of the Guyana Gym Owners and Trainers Association (GGOTA) held their first in-person meeting for the new year on Sunday and agreed on proposed dates for some of their activities planned for 2021.

During the meeting which was chaired by GGOTA President Noshavyah King, the members agreed to host a CPR course on April 25 and a Health and Wellness Workshop on May 23.

Both activities will be held at the Genesis Fitness Gym on D’Urban Street.

During the meeting, it was also disclosed that the association’s executive plans to have courtesy calls with Ministers of the Government and will also hold meetings with gym owners along with the top brass of the Guyana Olympic Association in the coming weeks.

The Importance of Nutrition, Strength and Conditioning, Gym Etiquette and Massage Therapy are some of the topics the Health and Fitness Workshop will cover.

Participants in the CPR course and the workshop will receive certificates upon completion. The price and other

Azruddin Mohamed along with ace driver Terrence Cox and other members of Team Mohamed on Sunday

T

The executives of the Guyana Gym Ownners and Trainers Association which was formed back in 2020

details for the workshop and CPR course will be published in a subsequent article.

The association also would endeavour to host a basic training course for persons aspiring to become trainers or fitness coaches; to work with the Education Ministry school system to assist with educating teachers and students on nutrition, making healthier options available in canteens and also to underscore the importance of physical education from the primary level.

Plans are also in the pipeline to provide workout

programmes online and through television for children and adults to encourage physical activity.

The GGOTA is an association formed by the fitness industry for the fitness industry. Since the fitness industry is large yet unorganised and fragmented, GGOTA aims to build and represent a structured community for the betterment of the industry as a whole with focus on addressing the immediate and long-term problems.

Its mission is to improve

the health of the nation by encouraging people to be more active more often.

GGOTA provides services and facilitates partnerships for a broad range of organisations, all of which support its vision and have a role to play in achieving that goal.

The association is a formidable body representing the entire fitness industry in Guyana; members and partners will include local gyms and studios from across the public, private, and adjacent sectors.

T

eam Mohamed’s blew away the competition on Sunday during Round One of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) Drag Races as they reset the strip record in the unlimited category with a more-than-impressive pass.

The Nissan GTR referred to as “Godzilla”, which was driven by Terrence Cox, clocked 7.50s to shatter the previous record, which was set on Saturday. The white GTR beat out the Team’s Black GTR nick-

named “Goliath”, driven by Azruddin Mohamed, to take the title.

Anil Persaud took top honours in the 15 second pass while Mahendra Singh and his machine, a Mitsubishi Evo 10 beat out the competition in the 14-second pass contest.

Imran Khan and his custom Toyota Camry were the fastest in the 13-second pass.

Sahadeo Rampersaud and Raymond John controlled the 12-second and 11-second passes respectively.

MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021

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

BCB/Nagamootoo Brothers Challenge Cup...

Pg 23

Whim Cricket Club emerge as champions S Jagmohan Hardware & Construction Services Golf Tournament…

Pg 23

Pg 22

Team Mohamed’s Nissan Shaw walks away with top GTR “Godzilla” resets honours amid stiff competition strip record with 7.5s pass GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, NEWS HOTLINE: 231-8063 EDITORIAL: 223-7230, 223-7231, 231-0544, 225-7761 SPORT: sport@guyanatimesgy.com SALES AND MARKETING: 231-8064 - marketing@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.