Guyana Times - Monday May 17, 2021

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Indian Monument in Region 2 recommissioned Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 4650

THE BEACON OF TRUTH MONDAY, MAY 17, 2021

Exxon’s Yellowtail field to produce for at least 20 years

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

P8 Community engagements aimed at fostering good relationship with Police – Top Cop

3 arrested with narcotics at P16 Sherima Police Checkpoint

– to have up to 55 wells

Page 3

Granger faces mounting pressure as PNC group in NY calls for new leadership Page 7

– slammed by Diaspora for ducking responsibility for losing 2020 elections

3 more die from COVID, Suspected Guyana’s death toll now 341 bandit

9-year-old boy crushed by garbage truck in Sophia P2 Mother bites P2 cops for attempting to arrest son

Page 8

Page 7

shot dead while in Police – 42 deaths recorded for May thus far, 103 new cases detected in 24hrs custody 635 girls, 404 boys abused for 1st quarter of 2021 – Dr Vindhya Persaud ...110 ...

110 boys were aged 0-3 years old

Page 14

37 countries in the Americas P17 detected COVID variants – PAHO MMA-ADA P15 allocates $170.5M for capital works for 2021

2 NEWS

MONDAY, MAY 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

9-year-old boy crushed by garbage truck in Sophia

A

nine-year-old pupil of Sophia Primary School was on Sunday crushed to death by a garbage truck as he was riding his bicycle in a street at Sophia, Greater Georgetown.

Dead is Enam Nakase Holder of Lot 2927 C Field Sophia.

The now dead lad’s sister explained that her brother was riding “up and down”

The road where the boy was struck down and killed

the street with his bicycle prior to the devastating accident. She explained that he would normally ride around in the village and return home when he was tired.

However, on the day in question, the now dead lad reportedly told his sister that he was heading home but instead, he rode past his home and went into a nearby street where he reportedly collided with the moving

garbage truck.

As a result of the collision, the boy and his bicycle feel onto the roadway and into the path of the rear wheels of the truck. The lad was reportedly run over and died almost immediately.

The sister noted that she was at home when the family received the devastating news. When Guyana Times visited the area on Sunday afternoon, the dead lad’s

mother was at the Turkeyen Police Station.

The driver of the truck registered to C&S trucking company was taken into custody as Police continue their investigation.

Earlier this month, 42-year-old Michael Hendriques of No 19 Village, Corentyne, Berbice, was crushed to death after he was reportedly run over by a 4-runner.

Mother bites cops for attempting to arrest son

The woman trying to prevent the officer from arresting her son

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Police officer who attempted to arrested a man on Friday last was bitten by the suspect’s mother at the intersection at Good Fortuin Road and La Grange Old Road, West Bank Demerara (WBD).

Based on reports received, the male suspect was the driver of a motor car that was pulled over by Police while he was heading to the Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB).

At the time, the car was occupied by the driver and two passengers - his mother and sister.

A video seen by this publication showed that the driver of the vehicle was about to be arrested by the Police officer when an argument broke out among them.

The officer was seen holding the driver by his pants and telling him that he was being arrested. The man refused to comply, and was heard telling the officer

to let go of his pants.

At this point, the argument escalated and the driver’s mother came out of the car and attempted to stop the officer from arresting her son.

The woman was later seen aggressively pushing herself between the officer and her son. Her daughter, who was also trying to question the reason for the young man’s arrest, was also seen trying to stop her mother from advancing towards the officer.

Someone who was recording the video could be heard saying: “She bite the Sergeant.” The officer was subsequently seen bleeding from his hand. The woman was later placed into the car by her daughter.

Since the incident, it is still unclear what action has been taken against the woman, and if her son was arrested following the incident.

NEWS

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MONDAY, MAY 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

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

Monday, May 17 – 09:00h – 10:30h and Tuesday, May 18 – 09:00h – 10:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Monday, May 17 – 07:00h – 08:30h and Tuesday, May 18 – 07:55h – 09:25h.

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

WEATHER TODAY

There will be light rain showers during the day. Expect clear skies at night. Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East South-Easterly to East NorthEasterly to North-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.47 metres.

High Tide: 07:38h and 20:19h reaching maximum heights of 2.4 metres and 2.22 metres.

Low Tide: 13:47h reaching a minimum height of 0.82 metre.

SATURDAY, MAY 15, 2021

LOTTERY NUMBERS E

01 07 14

15 26 25

FREE TICKET

27 Bonus Ball

DAILY MILLIONS

08 10 13 22 26 LUCKY 3

7

6

9

1

Afternoon Draw

3

0

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

02

06

09

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14 19 21 SUPER

PAY DAY

PAY DAY FRIDAY, MAY 14, 2021

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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

$68.71/barrel

+2.42

Rough Rice

$245.03/ton

+0.10

London Sugar

$453.60/ton

-0.42

Live Spot Gold

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1848.20

$1849.20

Low/High Change

$1842.50 +4.30

$1849.60 +0.23%

Exxon’s Yellowtail field to produce for at least 20 years – to have up to 55 wells

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he Yellowtail development, which will be the second oil field from ExxonMobil’s local subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), is expected to have up to 55 wells and a field life of at least 20 years.

This is according to the documents and project summary that EEPGL submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where it is currently seeking environmental approval to undertake the development.

According to the project summary, the development will be located approximately 200 kilometres from Georgetown and will feature between 45 and 55 wells.

The Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) facility will have between 200,000 and 250,000 barrels of oil per day.

“The production facilities to be installed include subsea equipment attached to the seafloor as well as processing equipment on the ocean’s surface FPSO vessel.

The subsurface equipment is installed at approximately 1,700 – 1,950 m of water depth. The main pieces of kit in the subsurface include the following: production tree, production manifold, flowlines, risers, and umbilicals,” it was explained.

“The subsurface umbilical’s, risers, and flowlines are commonly referred to as SURF. The oil, gas, and water flows from the well into the production tree. The fluids are then gathered into the manifold which then connects to the flowlines before the risers take the fluids up to the FPSO for further processing. The umbilical lines support production by providing real time control of the subsea installation from the surface by delivering fluids to facilitate the flow of hydrocarbons.”

There were also assurances given, as it relates to flaring. Cognisant of the compressor problems that have plagued the Liza Destiny Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel, which services the Liza-1 development, Exxon stated that it is committed to doing business that does not infringe on environmental and other considerations.

“EEPGL committed to conducting business in a manner that is compatible with the environmental and economic needs of the communities in which it operates and that protects the safety, security, and health of its employees, those involved with its operations, its customers, and the public,” the company says in the document.

It was recently revealed that an application for the Yellowtail oil development was being reviewed by the EPA, which has invited members of the public to make submissions

The Stabroek Block

on the project within 28 days. According to the EPA, EEPGL submitted an application for environmental authorisation to undertake the Yellowtail development.

“The proposed project will be implemented in multiple stages including: wells drilling and completions, mobilization and installation of subsea equipment, umbilical’s, risers and flowlines (SURF); installation of a Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) facility, production operations; offloading of crude and decommissioning and use of support vessels and helicopters throughout the stages,” the EPA had explained.

“The proposed project will be undertaken in

the marine offshore environment within Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and would also utilize land-based support activities such as marine shore bases, fabrication facilities, warehouses, and storage yards.”

According to the EPA, the project could have an impact on the environment, including on marine water quality, air quality, marine fauna, and socio-economic resources, among others. As a consequence, and in keeping with the Environmental Protection Act, an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) will be carried out.

It is meanwhile expected that the Field Development Plan (FDP) for Yellowtail

will be submitted later this year. This was recently revealed by Hess Chief Operating Officer (COO) Greg Hill. Hill, whose company is a co-venture partner of ExxonMobil in the Stabroek Block, was at the time taking part in the 2021 first-quarter earnings call.

The Stabroek Block is 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometres). EEPGL is the operator and holds 45 per cent interest in the Block.

Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd holds 30 per cent interest and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CNOOC Limited, holds the remaining 25 per cent interest.

ExxonMobil has said it anticipates at least six projects offshore Guyana will be online by 2027. Already, the oil major has established an ambitious oil exploration plan for 2021 offshore Guyana.

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guyanatimesgy.com

MONDAY, MAY 17, 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

Tax reform

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n 2013, when A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) were using their parliamentary majority to stymie the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) agenda for development, the Inter-American Development Bank published a report, "More than Revenue: Taxation as a Development Tool". The two parties soon entered into a formal coalition that allowed them to govern between 2015 and 2020, but sadly, Tax reform was not on their agenda, just as electoral reform is not on it now. We present the major recommendations in this crucial but neglected area. The report is very frank and presents "taxation in Latin America and the Caribbean as a missed opportunity.

In Latin America, it is largely viewed as a means of generating income to keep the Government in business. It lauds the region for progress made in increasing total revenue, but notes that most countries in the region still lag well behind other countries with similar levels of development. More importantly, Latin American policymakers have not taken advantage of the potential of taxation to contribute to other important development goals.

The weakness of the personal income tax structure has squandered the opportunity to attack the region’s serious income inequality and the failure to use taxes to improve environmental quality and general well-being. In addition, Governments have repeatedly missed the chance to influence consumption and production patterns by using taxes to effect relative price changes.

The structure of taxation in Latin American and Caribbean countries is usually described as suffering from four major shortcomings: collection is very low, taxes are barely progressive, tax evasion is rampant, and tax administrations are very weak. These characteristics create a self-reinforcing vicious circle, whose deep historical roots can be found in the distribution of wealth and effective political rights in the region.

Opportunities to evade taxes that vary greatly across income groups compound this perverse structure, shrinking effective tax bases and resulting in low levels of revenue.

Although the tax situations in the region vary widely, the report proposes that the pro-development tax reforms required by countries in Latin America and the Caribbean must respect five basic principles: First, the reforms must include taxes that favour the poor.

The first priority is to improve the progressivity of existing tax systems with an income tax that has fewer exemptions, real redistributive capacity, and that preserves the income of poorer households. Second, the reforms must establish tax systems that are simpler with broader tax bases. Most of the region’s tax systems are overly complex due to a plethora of exemptions.

The outcome is usually taxes that severely distort the allocation of resources and result in narrow and fragile tax bases.

Shifting to simple tax systems with broad bases that create an environment conducive to innovation and business startups is one of the surest ways to promote higher productivity growth and a sustainable improvement in the region’s well-being and equity. Third, tax administrations must be strengthened so that all citizens and businesses meet their tax obligations. Reducing the high rate of tax evasion and creating institutions that guarantee that all economic agents and citizens contribute their share to the collective effort is an essential element of social legitimation, and, as such, a requirement for the sustainability of any tax system designed to support development. Lower tax rates help immensely in this regard.

Fourth, institutional agreements and consensuses must be reached to ensure that local governments have the resources needed to act as agents of development. For decentralised spending to be sustainable, the own-source resources of local governments must be strengthened. Much of the great potential of local revenue is still wasted, especially property taxes.

Fifth, pro-development tax reforms should build tax systems that look to the future. Latin America and the Caribbean enjoys an extraordinary endowment of natural resources.

However, environmental taxes or the current design of taxes on commodities do not reflect this situation. To adapt the future to reality, tax systems must create incentives for the more efficient use of finite natural resources and take into account the needs of future generations of Latin Americans."

A Palestinian man prays as Israeli Police gather during clashes at the compound that houses Al-Aqsa Mosque, known to Muslims as Noble Sanctuary and to Jews as Temple Mount, amid tension over the possible eviction of several Palestinian families from homes on land claimed by Jewish settlers in the Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood, in Jerusalem’s Old City (Reuters/Ammar Awad)

PPP/C Government of Guyana would not resist but assist foreign investors

Dear Editor, His Excellency, Dr Irfaan Ali last Monday reiterated the importance of agriculture and food production, and a Government that is open to doing business.

President Ali said, ''Guyana is open to doing business – it is ready to facilitate growth and development,'' moreover, ''the Government is ready to help private investment to ensure a decent return—a country and a market that believe inherently in the participation of the Private Sector'.'

He outlined Guyana's potential to produce a large portion of the food requirements for Caricom, noting its proximity to one of the most dynamic and robust agricultural sectors by diversification in the world [Brazil] and the under-investment of the sector in realising its full potential.

Agriculture contributes 21.7 percent of Guyana's non-oil GDP; and in terms of agriculture trade, the country's export earnings are about US$370 million which primarily comes from

rice, fish, sugar, and some amount of non-traditional produce; while the sector contributes to about 12.1 percent of employment.

Guyana now has investment opportunities in rice, sugar, corn, soya, coconut, spices, fruits and vegetables, agro-processing, agrochemical, the livestock sector (poultry, beef, dairy, sheep, and goat) and fisheries - agriculture and shrimp.

Guyana's productive capacity within Caricom, and our potential is about US$25 million in poultry alone, 90 percent of which is imported.

“Guyana has the potential of satisfying all of Caricom's food requirement for poultry products, eggs, beef, aquaculture; we have the land, we have the freshwater but what we don’t have is the investment.

What we need are the investors who are ready to make the investments into largescale mega facilities that will support the growth and development of these different sub-sectors. In terms of land availability, in every one of these areas, Guyana has lands that are available.

We have freshwater … and we have the critical infrastructure link that will allow you to move your produce from the field to the market and/or the export facility as it is now.''

Our Government of Guyana is heavily focused on developing the aquaculture sector in the short term to service potential markets including Caricom, the US, Mexico, and the EU. The US, for example, imported over 550,000 metric tons of frozen shrimp and prawns valued at US$4.8 billion.

“Historically, the high cost of electricity has been one of the most inhibiting factors for us to develop our country – right now, all of our electricity is supplied through heavy fuel oil (HFO) however that will change tremendously over the medium to long term.

Our PPP/C Government is now developing an energy mix that will include natural gas, solar, wind, and the plan is to have an energy strategy that would create a new energy corridor between Guyana, Brazil and

Suriname. So, you will see the cost of energy reducing because of the investment we will be making.”

The world is now attracted to Guyana and is expressing confidence in our economy, new investors and businesses would help to create wealth, generate jobs and job opportunities as our Government continues to facilitate the growth and development of businesses in our regions I want to assure you our prospective investors that this PPP/C Government of Guyana would not resist but assist foreign investors. The Government is looking at the creation of an “agro-industrial zone” that will have tax incentives and create new opportunities for investment.

Guyana is a safe place to invest and will not put hurdles in the way of potential investors. The time is right for investors to be attracted to Guyana and to capitalise on the opportunities the economy has to offer.

Sincerely, David Adams

Let's promote satire to stop this culture of violence Dear Editor, On Friday, May 14, in the satirical section in one of the daily newspapers, Mr Harris' cartoon portrayed two men socialising and one asked if he "hit his wife” and the other responded, “in self-defence”.

This could be interpreted by persons like myself as misleading and be interpreted by perpetrators of violence as "their new defence and justification" for violence. How can we equate violence perpetrated by mostly men as “in self-defence”?

Are we now justifying negative behaviour? Are you normalising domestic violence?

Do you know how a person who has experienced violence feels? Do you know what it's like to be humiliated, to be disgusted with oneself? This is painful!

While many times I enjoy the satirical drawings, of this one I cannot say the same. Recently, two women were brutally murdered, one in the presence of her 14-year-old son and another in the presence of her 15-year-old sister. There

are reports about both men and women being hospitalised because of domestic violence We also know that we live in a country where "copycat" actions and behaviours are becoming common.

How can one be so insensitive to make fun about an inhumane act that not only causes grave sufferings to the victim(s) but also leaves negative indelible pains in the minds and hearts of the children who are the most affected?

Do we want to send a message that can shape the life

of our children negatively?

The answer should be “No”! No form of violence is acceptable, even if it is interpreted as “in self-defence”. Similarly, satirical drawings portraying violence against anyone are unacceptable. I call on all advocates to denounce this and we demand an apology.

Let's promote satire to stop this culture of violence we live in immediately!

End violence against all!

Sincerely, Shaundell Shipley

guyanatimesgy.com

MONDAY, MAY 17, 2021

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

Karma & Newton’s Third Law of Motion Dear Editor, The topic of karma is very complex and intriguing, besotted with a theory that is very revered in Hinduism. The theory of karma is very often misconstrued by many. But as of recently, the theory and its concepts have been permeating the various religions and cultures, to the extent that its concepts and beliefs are practiced in most cultures.

Karma in Hinduism means a deed or an act. And whenever there is a deed or an act a negative or a positive effect is produced, or simply put it; whenever there is a cause, there is always an effect. It is stated in Sanskrit, which is considered the world’s oldest language, that has been spoken approximately since 5000 BC and I quote in Sanskrit “Kritam karma kartaram nugachhati” which trans-

lates in English as, everyone has to reap the fruits of his or her own actions, whether negative or positive.

In Hinduism, it is disseminated that there are three types of karma. They are: 1) Parabdha, 2) Sanchit and 3) Kriyamaan.

It is believed that Parabdha refers to acts or deeds that were sowed in the last life, the result of which, we will receive in this life. Sanchit, on the other hand, is believed to be the acts or deeds we are committing in our current lives, the results of which we will receive in this life.

And for Kriyamaan, the last of the three karmas, it is believed that what we do in our current lives, we will receive the result in the next life. But per Hinduism, for one to achieve good karma, one must adhere to the four fruits of Hinduism; that be-

ing: 1) Dharma, 2) Artha, 3) Kaam, and 4) Moksha.

Dharma, as per ancient texts written by saints and sages, can be achieved by adhering to the truth, having sympathy, compassion and pity, distinguishing between wrong and right, control over mind, exercising non-violence, respecting the relationship between a husband and a wife, treating everyone alike, studying the scriptures and a host of other qualities that would contribute to achieving this sacred goal.

Artha is to acquire some money for comforts, security, and fulfilling one’s duties and responsibilities, while Kaam refers to the fulfilment of one’s desires for joy and bliss. On the other hand, Moksha refers to the liberation of the soul from the bondage of the flesh; that is, our physical bodies.

Karma, according to

Hinduism, plays an integral part in the lives of Hindus.

It is believed that the concept of karma has an impact on the life and death cycle in Hinduism; a cycle that is called Samsara, which is commonly known as reincarnation or the transmigration of the souls.

The concept of karma as per Hinduism can result in the positives or the negatives, depending on one’s actions. For example, it is believed that a person whose actions are in accordance with the dharmic duties as propagated in Hinduism, subsequent to their passing, will take birth in a beautiful and healthy human body.

On the other hand, a person whose actions are contrary to the norms of Hindu dharma, that person will take birth in one of the species lower than that of our human beings.

The attributes of kar-

Dear Editor, Permit me a space in your newspaper to express my disgust and uneasiness to the continued snub of my countryman and world class performer.

Over the years as a student of this game we love so much and life in general, I have learnt to live with disappointments, dust it off and move on.

However, I am beginning to believe that the continued snub of Shimron Hetmyer is more personal than lack of fitness or lack of commitment to West Indies cricket.

It’s no secret that West Indies will choose some of the most mediocre players to become administrators, where jealousy and personality clashes abound.

The underlying issue remains how successful these young lads would have become in comparison to men with 15 and 20-year careers.

It’s no fault of theirs, life is not static, it remains dynamic, this is simply a different time.

Let’s look at three of the top teams in the world and compare the careers of some of the leading lights in the administration of cricket, India, Ganguly and Dravid, South Africa, Graeme Smith, England, Andrew Strauss.

I deliberately left out Australia, none of the current crop of selectors and immediate past selectors headed by Courtney Browne had a consistent run in the WI squad.

Roger Harper as chief Judge, Jury and Executioner has availed unto himself to single handedly destroy young Hetmyer to look good in Caribbean circles, where the notion of if I can do that to my own home boy, who else I can’t do this to?

I have been following

closely, the statements attributed to my good friend Reds Pereira, one of our outstanding sons in broadcasting, I am in full support of his idea. Who in the hierarchy called young Shimron and spoke to him?

The Master Blaster Richards was a bit more subtle in asking the young man to look in the mirror, yes, we are always contributors to our own downfalls.

In this case where youthful exuberance abounds, the words of Jason Holder hold substance, counsel the players, not chastise and abandon them.

The entire Caribbean is aware that this 30-man training squad has people in it that can’t come close to the talented young Berbician.

The world is full of small-minded administrators, that the simplest of things are held against you, these people will hound you down to halt your strides forward.

I say without fear of contradiction, there is more in the mortar than in the pestle in Hetmyer’s continued snub.

No wonder locally, young Ramjattan has filed a no-confidence motion in an association where harper plays an integral role in decision making.

I know the President of Guyana, His Excellency Irfaan Ali is an ardent cricket fan since in his University days, Sports Minister, Hon Ramson, who has shown an inclination to continued progress thus far, GCB President and the proven and tested Hilbert Foster, being Vice President, needs to have some clarity, either directly or indirectly about the future of this young Guyanese sportsman.

Today is Hetty, tomorrow will be another Guyanese,

when we are treated unkind by our own, how do we expect others to treat us?

As is advised, improve your fitness Shimron, I patiently await to see the other flimsy excuse by the so called “excellent” selectors who are so strict and straight up when there are no further doubts lingering.

Reds alluded to the sterner test that lies ahead with the upcoming series with teams that are far more talented than Bangladesh, as we bask in the glory of the team’s success recently, we recognise how important this game is to Caribbean integration.

Distinguished UWI Professor, Sir Hillary Beckles put it nicely, “we took it from its victorian mores, fused it into a single institution that defines us as a people, for cricket remains the only and single unifying force for us as a people”.

Those profound words aren’t to be taken lightly, I challenge the incumbent Ricky Skerrit and Dr Shallow to be objective and bring this issue of “selectoral blunders” to a halt for the betterment of West Indies cricket.

Hetmyer’s continued snub is beginning to look personal

With regards, Ronald Shepherd

ma are also synonymous to other religions. As for example, Christianity promulgates that their followers should adhere to the ten Commandments, while Islam also propagates that their followers should adhere to the five pillars; that being: Iman or faith, Salah or prayers, Zakat or financial obligations, Swam or fasting and, Hajj or pilgrimage.

The concept of karma, on the other hand, is also likened to that of the modern-day Newton’s Third Law of Motion that states, “For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction”. This concept is being played out in our daily lives, whether knowingly or unknowingly. Let us take the scenario of a person being tried for murder, which is very common in today’s society. During the trial, it is discovered that the person had a history of abuse in childhood, is neglected by his or her family and a host of other issues that would manifest in this type of behaviour as exhibited by the accused. The law of karma comes into play.

Another scenario that is commonly played out in today’s society, which is very endemic, is domestic abuse.

Domestic abuse within the family, whether physical or mental, transcends and materialises in various ways that affect everyone within the family and extended family. And it is for this reason, society is taking a serious view by institution laws that would try to thwart domestic abuse occurrences.

The first and foremost effect to a prolonged domestic abuse is inevitable; a divorce. In domestic abuse, these battered wom-

en suffer mental and physical problems. In reality, the emotional and psychological abuses received by women from batterers may be more costly to treat than that of physical injuries.

It is indicated that onethird of the children who witnessed the battering of their mothers demonstrated significant behavioural and emotional problems, which include psychosomatic disorders, anxiety and fear, sleep disruption and school problems. It is further indicated that boys who witness their father’s abuse of their mother are more likely to inflict severe violence as adults and are more prone to batter their female partners as adult. Data also suggests that girls who witness their mothers being abused may tolerate abuse as adults more than girls who do not. The law of karma comes into play.

The philosophy of the law of karma and Newton’s Third Law of Motion are ever evident in our lives.

The law of karma is undoubtedly synonymous to Newton’s Third Law of Motion, which promulgates that the energy we exhibit, whether negative or positive, is ultimately returned to us as good or bad Karma, or should I say, whenever there is a cause, there is always an effect. Simply put, karma like Newton’s Third Law of Motion has no menu.

One is served what one sows. In reality, the law of karma and Newton’s Third Law of Motion describe the same underlying principle which can probably teach us how to live a more dignified life in society.

Sincerely, Mani Jadunauth

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MONDAY, MAY 17, 2021

Page

Foundation ◄

Question 1

Friday’s answers

On the Grasshopper and Cricket

By John Keats

Materials: White paper plates Brown and yellow paint Brown construction paper Large googly eyes Paintbrush Scissors Directions: After gathering supplies, paint the paper plate yellow.

Paint brown spots on the paper plate to mimic a jaguar’s coat.

Cut the jaguar’s nose

from the brown construction paper (we used a rounded heart shape). Press the nose and the wiggly eyes onto the still-wet yellow paint. If the paint becomes dry, secure the nose and wiggly eyes with white school glue.

Use the brush to paint a mouth and whiskers onto the jaguar.

Isn’t he cute?

(Adapted from kidsactivitiesblog.com)

The Poetry of earth is never dead: When all the birds are faint with the hot sun, And hide in cooling trees, a voice will run From hedge to hedge about the new-mown mead; That is the Grasshopper’s— he takes the lead In summer luxury,—he has never done With his delights; for when tired out with fun He rests at ease beneath some pleasant weed.

The poetry of earth is ceasing never: On a lone winter evening, when the frost Has wrought a silence, from the stove there shrills The Cricket’s song, in warmth increasing ever, And seems to one in drowsiness half lost, The Grasshopper’s among some grassy hills.

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

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MONDAY, MAY 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Granger faces mounting pressure as PNC group in NY calls for new leadership – slammed by Diaspora for ducking responsibility for losing 2020 elections

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eople’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) leader David Granger is facing mounting pressure to step down, as a number of PNCR diaspora groups on Sunday added their voices to calls for the former President to step down from leading the party.

In a letter signed by Connie McGuire, Michael Bramford, George E, Lewis and the PNCR New York Diaspora group, they appealed to all PNC Executives, members and

supporters to demand the resignations of Granger and other party leaders.

They noted that after working tirelessly to get Granger elected in 2015, the party made a series of missteps, failed to connect to supporters and sidelined young and dynamic leadership like that offered by former Region 10 Regional Chairman Sharma Solomon.

“It will be a colossal mistake for we the members of the PNCR groups in the New York Diaspora and the

PNC leader David Granger

Suspected bandit shot dead while in Police custody

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45-year-old taxi driver who was arrested by the Police on Saturday last after he was suspected of being involved in a robbery at Herstelling, East Bank Demerara (EBD), on May 1, 2021, is now dead after he was shot while in Police custody.

Peter Headley of Dowding Street, Kitty, Georgetown, and another man were taken into custody by Police at Nandy Park, East Bank Demerara, on Saturday evening.

At the time, both men where occupants of a car that was being driven Headley.

Police are claiming that a television set that is suspected to have been stolen during the armed robbery earlier in the month was found during a search of the vehicle Headley was driving on Saturday evening.

After the discovery, the two men were arrested, and Headley was placed in the

Dead: Peter Headley

front passenger seat of his car which was being driven by an armed Police rank.

Another Police rank was in the back seat of the vehicle while the other suspect was taken into the Police vehicle with the other ranks.

On their way to the Providence Police Station, it was alleged that Headley reached under the seat and pulled out what appeared to be a firearm, causing the armed rank to discharge a

round, hitting him to his body.

The injured mas was instead rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where he succumbed while receiving medical treatment. The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has failed to state whether a firearm was discovered in the vehicle following the shooting incident.

It is still unclear of how the victim ended up with a firearm, after Police in a statement said that Headley’s vehicle was searched by the Police ranks prior to the two officers joining the said vehicle.

Nevertheless, the GPF said the matter is now under investigations by its Office of Professional Responsibility.

When Guyana Times visited the dead man’s home in Kitty on Sunday, no relatives were at home but persons in the community related that Headley was not a thief, and “was a really nice person”.

executive members of the PNCR to allow them to remain at the helm of the PNCR. This will no doubt do irreparable damage to the party… it is time for them to pass the baton on to the younger leadership of the likes of Sharma Solomon, Vanessa Kissoon, Thandi McCallister and others.”

“As members of the PNCR groups in the New York Diaspora, we have all felt betrayed by a wobbly and inept leadership. Once the coalition was in office, we felt that the top leadership isolated themselves permanently from members of the party in Guyana and us, the party supporters and members in the New York Diaspora. It was impossible for us in the Diaspora to communicate with the leaders much less to offer them help or advice.”

According to the group, the PNC’s elitist attitude

adopted after they entered Government is responsible for losing the March 2 General and Regional Elections last year. It wasn’t lost on the group, however, that Granger and his fellow PNC leaders have been ducking responsibility for their party’s loss at the polls. The party has in fact gone to court claiming that the elections were rigged against them. Both of their election petitions have been tossed out.

“They have refused to accept responsibility for their defeat and instead have accused the PPP of rigging the elections which is a big lie, similar to the one told

by Trump in the U.S. The truth is the leaders of the PNCR, Mr. Granger did not follow through on many of the party’s development initiatives in its manifesto to bring about change, reduce unemployment and improved the lives of the masses.”

“For five years, they have presided over a non-responsive and introverted Administration that did not care about the people, much less their supporters. In fact, we the members of the New York Diaspora group must admit our failure for failing to speak up or intervene before the March 2, 2020 elections,” the group said.

The group admitted that as the PNC in Government made mistake after mistake, they should have spo-

ken up. However, they took responsibility for this and noted that with the PNC booted out of office after five years, the time had come for soul searching to determine why the PNC leadership became “lackluster and ineffective.”

“The fact that the leaders of the governing coalition had arrogantly ignored or deliberately did not seek advice shows that they did not care about the viability and longevity of the PNCR but only themselves.”

“Their actions seem to be the largest con game ever portrayed by the leaders of the party on the people of Guyana. The fact that we have worked assiduously to get them and the coalition elected to office in 2015 were totally ignored,” the group said.

Only recently, Congress Place was picketed by members of Granger’s own party who demanded that he hold the congress so that the party could choose a leader. One placard, aimed at Granger and Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon, had read “David and Joe, stop denying democracy in the PNC. Time for congress”.

PNC’s last biennial congress was in 2018, where Granger was returned unopposed as leader of the party. According to the diaspora group, the time has come for younger and more progressive leaders to be elected to lead the party.

8 NEWS

MONDAY, MAY 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

3 more die from COVID, Guyana’s death toll now 341

– 42 deaths recorded for May thus far, 103 new cases detected in 24hrs

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he Health Ministry on Sunday reported that three more persons died from COVID-19, thus taking the overall death toll to 341 with a whopping 42 recorded for the month of May so far.

The three new fatalities are a 65-year-old male from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) and an 84-year-old female from Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice).

They reportedly succumbed on Friday while a 54-year-old man from Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) died on Saturday.

All three persons died while receiving attention at a medical facility.

However, new statistics released by the Health Ministry shows that a total of 103 new cases were detected on Sunday, taking the total confirmed cases to 15,271.

The Ministry related that 14 persons remain in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 110 in institutional isolation, 1839 in home isolation and eight in institutional quarantine. In total, 12,967 persons recovered completely.

Since the pandemic started, 137,081 individuals were tested – of which 7628 males and 7643 females were positive. Guyana currently has a whopping 1961 active cases.

New cases were detected in Regions One (BarimaWaini), Two (PomeroonSupenaam), Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Four (Demerara-Mahaica) and Five (Mahaica-Berbice).

However, cases in Regions

Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) remained at 939, 1151, 271, 686 and 1031 respectively.

Last week, the COVAX mechanism delivered 38,400 doses of AstraZeneca vaccines to Guyana – the second consignment that has been sent within two months. In total, Guyana has received 62,400 doses through COVAX. The agency has promised to send 100,800 shots at zero

cost, that will cover 20 per cent of the adult population. It is expected that more vaccines will be delivered in the future until this target is achieved.

Thus far, Guyana’s vaccination programme has been led by 80,000 AstraZeneca vaccines from India, 20,000 Sinopharm doses from China and 3000 through the Barbadian Government.

The country has also purchased US$4 million of the Russia-manufactured Sputnik V vaccines – of which 138,000 doses have already arrived. Another 68,000 is ex-

pected this month.

Persons have been continually asked to turn up and take their vaccines, especially since the coronavirus mortality pattern in Guyana has taken a new trajectory, affecting younger age groups.

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony has stated that data gathered in recent weeks shows that individuals from lower age groups are falling victim to the novel disease.

Previously, only older people or those with comorbidities were at risk. The Minister outlined that this trend could be due to the fact that a large percentage of the 60 and older subset have already been vaccinated. With this indication, he had said it was important for Guyanese to ensure that they take both doses of the vaccine.

All Guyanese are reminded to observe the protocols of the COVID-19 Emergency Measures (No 17), which are in effect until May 31, 2021. This order emphasises the need for correct and consistent use of a face mask when leaving your home; the importance of maintaining the six feet physical distance from others; and the need for good hand hygiene to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

If anyone is displaying any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19 or needs any additional information, contact the COVID-19 Hotline 231-1166, 226-7480 or 6246674 immediately or visit www.health.gov.gy.

Community engagements aimed at fostering good relationship with Police – Top Cop

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he Guyana Police Force will continue its community engagements across the country, in a bid to foster good relationship with residents and bolster crime-fighting resources.

Police Commissioner, Nigel Hoppie made this disclosure during a recent programme, indicating that these interactions will aid the Police in carrying out their duties. Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, he noted that it was a timely move to introduce such an initiative, and efforts will be taken to ensure that it is sustained.

“This would be a sustained activity and certainly, we have been aided with our interactions with members of the communities.

Outside of the Community Policing Group, we have policing engagements where Commanders would do outreaches within the regions. It was timely a little bit because of the COVID-19 pandemic but it is on the front burner.

I don’t want to say when but we are going to make effort to ensure that this activity is sustained,” the Top Cop high-

Police Commissioner Nigel Hoppie

lighted.

Hoppie pointed out that the youth groups and Community Policing Groups have supported engagements throughout the villages, as law enforcement seeks to play a role as a “partner” to the people.

“We have 65 youth groups with a total membership of about 3775 and there are also 10 police scout group with 321 youths being involved. So, there is no doubt that our efforts is to continuously engage members of the community

and create that bond necessary so that the Police would not only be seen as a crime fighter but the Police could be seen as a friend and partner.”

Lauding the interactions was Assistant Commissioner of Police Simon McBean, who credited the decrease in crime rate to the advent of policing groups throughout the world.

He shared the opinion that as society evolves, authorities and the Police need to step away from traditional roles and find newer effective ways.

McBean stated, “It has brought about and showed diligence in crime control.

Since in the 90s, there is a global crime reduction, which again is being credited to the new policing strategy, which is community policing. We will continue to embrace that new policing strategy and it will always provide the results that we are seeing. We will sit with the community, discuss issues that are affecting them. Some of the requirements are outside of our traditional policing efforts.”

Last year, the Home Affairs Ministry restructured and relaunched the

Community Policing Groups (CPGs) with a focus to rebuild, boost its membership and regain trust within communities to prevent crime.

Minister Robeson Benn had underscored the importance of CPGs to maintaining order within communities. An increase in crimes, he said, can be linked to a reduction in active CPGs. The 2020 and 2019 year-to-date figures have shown a marked increase in armed robberies by 20 per cent and robbery with aggravation by 27 per cent, he said, underscoring the need for reactivating the groups.

The overall goal is to increase membership to 5000 nationwide, with proper management.

“The promoting of safe communities and neighbourhoods can only come through enabling and rebuilding of community trust and confidence through a system of volunteerism, using law-abiding citizens to bolster and aid the lawful, professional and human rights embracing efforts of Guyana Police Force,” Minister Benn is quoted as saying.

The cynicism of...

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...Big Pharma on COVID-19

our Eyewitness tries to ensure his glasses aren’t too rose-coloured and then cleans them religiously so his vision isn’t too blurred. This is critical nowadays with all the fake and slanted news bombardment which you can’t escape even if you live under a rock. So take the refusal of US Big Pharma digging in its heels against Biden’s suggestion that they temporarily relax their patents, etc. This would’ve allowed other companies – especially in the poorer countries – to manufacture their vaccines and head off the viral tsunami that’s devastating countries like India and Brazil. Which makes it certain to circle back home.

Your Eyewitness understands it takes big bucks to fund the research for the products these companies bring to market. So he accepts that the operative word is “market” – as in selling the pharmaceuticals based on supply and demand for a profit – even though they’re meant to save lives. The profits are the incentive to continue being innovative to come up with more Pharma to save more lives. Like say, against cancer.

But this model of the market, like all models, are meant to be a generalised approach to address our everyday world. And even then, there have been complaints about the ethics of making money on the suffering of others. This was addressed by asserting that Big Pharma was ultimately saving lives that would have been gone if they weren’t around. Greater good for the greater number and all that.

But today the world is caught up with a medical threat posed by COVID-19 that threatens our entire civilisation – including Big Pharma. We’ve found out that (unfortunately) there are no national barriers since the virus spread from some lab in Wuhan, China – a pretty closed society and yet engulfed the world. So you’d think Big Pharma would’ve been a bit more expansive in this fight to save the world. Especially when its biggest claim for exclusivity – paying for all that upfront research – just ain’t true. With money up front, the US Govt shelled out more than US$20 billion!

The Government invested extensively in every aspect of the basic science, preclinical development, and clinical trials for the vaccines; it executed procurement contracts that were critical to creating successful vaccines and ensuring they were available to the US public. They essentially removed the bulk of traditional industry risks related to vaccine development: a) scientific failures, b) failures to demonstrate safety and efficacy, c) manufacturing risks; and d) market risks related to low demand.

Pfizer alone has already made more than US$3.5 billion in profits in just the first three months!! The President of Moderna is already worth US$5 billion!

How much “incentive” is enough?

... the PNC on mangrove On cue, the PNC has jumped on the Mangrove Bandwagon after some folks objected to the shore-base developer at Versailles cutting down some mangrove trees. The owner has already indicated that he’ll be constructing more-thanadequate steel and concrete walls to protect the area from flooding even more effectively than with mangrove. Your Eyewitness had supported the suggestion by environmentalist Annette Arjune that the developer be required to replace the equivalent number of mangrove trees removed, at some other location. Like the Mahaica foreshore that’s being regularly inundated.

But the PNC’s opportunism and cynicism are revealed in one simple factoid: when they doled out shore lands to various and sundry party supporters at Bohemia (Corentyne, Berbice), at Drill Mahaicony, adjoining West Bank Facade on the Demerara River, and on the Essequibo River for shore bases and landing the gas-to-shore pipeline, weren’t Mangrove Trees going to be cut down??

Hypocrisy, hypocrisy everywhere and not a drop of shame!

But that’s the PNC!

...Middle East Politics After the Al Jazeera office that also housed several other news agencies in Gaza was bombed by Israel, the Western Media took on a whole new perspective.

Guess the bombs opened up their eyes? Journalists’ lives matter?

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

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14 NEWS

MONDAY, MAY 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

635 girls, 404 boys abused for 1st quarter of 2021 …110 boys were aged 0-3 years old

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uman Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud has revealed alarming statistics, indicating that 635 girls and 404 boys were abused during the first quarter of 2021.

In her statement in observance of International Day of the Boy Child on Sunday, she noted that the attention to protect girls in the country far outweighs the response in safeguarding boys.

While more girls are abused, Dr Persaud explained that the country must realise that boys also face similar abuse.

“I’m sure you’ll agree with me that the tendency has been to pay more attention to the girls and protect them, while we show less consideration to the boys. While it is true that more girls are abused, sexually and otherwise, let’s not be deceived into thinking that

the same thing doesn’t happen to boys. According to the latest statistics available to us, 635 girls were abused for the first quarter of this year alone, but an alarming number of boys were also abused – 404,” the Minister expressed.

The types of abuse reported during this time included physical, sexual, verbal, neglect, and abandonment.

The age range of zero to three years old saw 110 boys were abused; 95 for those four to seven years old; 147 for eight to 13 years old; and 52 within the 14-18 years bracket.

Through the Child Care and Protection Agency (CCPA), she noted that officials have been working to promote more awareness of the issue. Guardians were asked to pay attention in protecting their boys, in order to prevent these numbers from rising. It will also ensure

that they receive positive messages on self-awareness, relationships and conflict resolution, to encourage ambition and healthy development goals.

“It is for this reason that the systems we are putting in place to deal with child abuse are for both boys and girls…It’s true that our boys are hurting and they need us.

While they are also groomed for sexual abuse, we don’t get them to talk easily about it. I would like to appeal to parents to pay attention to the safety of their boy children, their education and the messages that boys receive very early in life about respecting females and using dialogue to resolve conflict.”

Minister Persaud said it is also equally important for boys to be exposed to both positive male and female role models in their foundation

Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud

years. Many boys have had to shoulder responsibilities very early in single-parent homes in the absence of fathers and this impacts on their later relationships and choices.

“It is also known that less boys are pursuing tertiary level education as compared

to girls and this has created a shift in the workforce. The point is while we will be working consistently to empower girls through the Ministry, boys will benefit also from access to developmental opportunities and engagement as we recognise that they must be engaged early to counter escalating issues of domestic violence, crime, substance abuse, and unhealthy self-perceptions and coping mechanisms,” she added.

The CCPA had reported earlier this year that 3129

children in Guyana faced some form of abuse in 2020.

More startling was the fact that high on the types of abuse are sexual abuse and neglect. In the high category of sexual abuse, the CCPA found that 688 girls were sexually abused, with 382 between the ages of 14 and 18 being abused at home.

Astonishingly also, is the fact that many of these girls were violated and abused by persons brought into the homes, especially by their mothers.

Indian Monument in Region 2 recommissioned

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Nigel Dharamlall; India’s High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr KJ Srinivasa; the Regional Chairperson and a representative of the Indian Action Committee standing in front of the East Indian Settlement Monument

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he Arrival Day Committee of Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) in collaboration with the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) recommissioned the East Indian Settlement Monument on Saturday at Bush Lot, Essequibo Coast.

This was executed as part of the Indian Arrival Day activities in the region.

The monument was built in commemoration of the first group of East Indian immigrants who arrived in the region and who settled at Anna Regina in May 1838.

Bush Lot was chosen as the site for this monument because of the relatives of the first 90 East Indian indentured immigrants who settled in that area.

During his address, India’s High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr KJ Srinivasa related that the Essequibo Coast feels like India due to its cultural background. Dr Srinivasa explained that the East Indian immigrants are responsible for the success of the rice and sugar industries and ultimately the economic development of the region.

He reflected that the Indian presence began with the arrival of indentured immigrants to primarily work on the sugar plantations to develop the country’s political and economic status.

Further, the envoy reflected on history, stating that the immigrants were transported in two ships - the Whitby and the Hesperus. The Whitby sailed from Calcutta on January 13, 1838, with 249 immigrants, and after a voyage to Guyana 188 years ago, the indentured immigrants endured 144 days of hardship and struggled for their lives.

“Despite the hardship, the Indians managed to contribute towards the economic and political subject of the country. The least of 25% of Indians returned to their homeland of India while others settled in Guyana.

As I know, the Imam Baksh family was one of the most outstanding family that settled within the Bush Lot Settlement after the Hamburg Beach was completely flooded in 1867,” Dr Srinivasa related Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Nigel Dharamlall, who was present at the event, stated that the East Indians would have faced tremendous difficulties while working on the sugar plantation.

He stated that they had to toil very hard for their living and as such managed to survive during the indentureship. He mentioned that Indians paved the path for colonialism and fought for Guyana’s Independence.

The Regional Chairwoman, Vilma D Silva, took the opportunity to thank the High Commissioner of India for his time and effort to visit the region for its significant and historical purpose.

She too stated that East Indians played a major role in Guyana’s economy, especially in the agriculture sector.

Meanwhile, Regional Executive Officer Devanand Ramdatt stressed that Arrival Day is a symbolic event for the region but unfortunately, the monument was left unrecognised for more than five years.

He explained that the committee was put together to ensure that the region maintains the historic symbol.

NEWS

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MONDAY, MAY 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

MMA-ADA allocates $170.5M for capital works for 2021

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he Mahaica Mahaicony Abary-Agricultural Development Authority (MMA-ADA) has earmarked some $170.5 million for major projects this year to enhance the services provided to rice farmers.

Acting General Manager of the authority, Mahendranauth Ramjit told the Department of Public Information (DPI) that the money which will be used for capital works is part of the Authority’s $474.5 million allocation from the 2021 national budget.

With a primary focus on drainage and irrigation, Ramjit said $76 million was used to purchase two long-reach excavators to accelerate the clearing of sluggish drains and canals in the area. One of the machines has arrived, while the other will be delivered shortly.

A survey conducted by engineers to determine the elevation of the conservancy dam at Abary found that some sections are below span, which Ramjit said is a threat

to overtopping during the irrigation period.

To this end, $12 million will be spent to build up the 35-mile-long conservancy dam. The conservancy is the heart of the MMA-ADA Scheme, with hundreds of farmers in the Abary-Berbice block relying on it for irrigation.

“We have a machine excavating from the main canal and capping the dam as we go along the different low areas. There is a pontoon and an excavator in the conservancy carrying out this work.

There is over 40,000 acres of rice planted in Abary-Berbice, including over 20,000 acres of pasture for cattle. There is also a portion for cash crop and other crops.

So, it’s critical for this project to take place by the MMA,” Ramjit noted.

Another $6 million is being used to develop the main canal and embankment next to the conservancy.

This is essential since it will drain water from the conservancy into

Acting General Manager of the MMA-ADA, Mahendranauth Ramjit

the primary channel for farmers to access adequate irrigation water.

There is also a 5000-acre block of cattle pasture for which $13.5 million was budgeted to improve drainage and irrigation.

“Next to the cattle pasture, there is the Abary flood embankment which we have budgeted $6 million for as well. So, the project is to heighten the embankment. For the past five years, no work was

done in this area; you couldn’t enter there, it has bushes, the water cannot flow freely in the drains.”

Meanwhile, N and S Engineering and General Construction was awarded a $32 million contract to construct two bridges ? one across the Yankee Canal in Mahaicony, and another at Basket Plimpler, an area aback Perth Village, Mahaicony.

Ramjit noted that the two bridges would significantly help farmers by creating easier access to farmlands and reducing travel time, thereby lowering production cost. This also means more produce could be transported to the markets.

“Without the bridges, some farmers were forced to travel an additional four to five miles to meet their farms.”

N and S Engineering and General Construction also signed an $18 million contract to construct a check structure at Burma main drain. The new system is ex-

pected to benefit some 10,000 acres of farmland in that district. The contracts have a five-month duration, and contractors must execute their duties in accordance with the stated terms.

The PPP/C Government has made food security a priority since taking office and plans to expand Guyana’s agriculture sector, even as it re-designs policies for the sector.

President Dr Irfaan Ali has said the Government would continue to help rice farmers produce better rice yields.

Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha recently announced that extension officers had been dispatched across the country to help low-yielding rice farmers enhance their production.

The Minister has commended the Guyana Rice Development Board for the initiative, noting that it will contribute to Government’s efforts to double rice production over the next five years.

WWF calls for full impact assessment on oil & gas sector – says well-structured, transparent and equitable mechanism needed to avoid destruction

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he World Wide Fund for NatureGuyana (WWF) has called for a full Social and Environmental Impact Assessment of the overall oil and gas sector, taking into account current and future plans, so that citizens can be better informed and prepared for the changes that will take place.

In its statement, WWF placed this call in the context of the recent controversy surrounding the clearing of mangroves along the West Bank of Demerara (WBD)

by TriStar Development, seeking to erect a US$100 million shore base facility.

“Such an assessment will give decision-makers and the public-at-large an objective view of the range of impacts from the industry, that has already begun to transform the country.

Environmental and Social Impact Assessments, done at a project, sector or policy level provide a strong and objective means to help

stakeholders to better understand issues that will affect them, their communities and the environment to which they are connected.”

“Beyond the specific issue of mangroves and shore base development, the full development programme for offshore oil and gas production is yet to be known, and as such it is difficult to anticipate and plan ahead for these impacts. While a few may have a grasp of the issues, the average person has little chance to engage on most of these issues in a fact-based or rational manner,” the WWF said.

The WWF cited the importance of ensuring that Guyana’s upcoming exponential growth, which will see a double-digit explosion of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), is balanced by the country remaining at low risk for losing its low-carbon sustainable reputation.

“Though not a silver bullet, a full assessment

The WWF statement comes in the wake of the clearing of mangroves at the Versailles-Malgre Tout shoreline

of the oil and gas industry will certainly help. People need to be aware and fully engaged on such a mammoth transformational development that will make Guyana the biggest per capita petro-producer in the world in a few years’ time.”

“A well-structured, transparent and equitable mechanism is needed for the country to have any chance to ensure that the oil and gas sector does not destroy

Kuru Kururu man found dead in home

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Kuru Kururu, Soesdyke-Linden Highway man was found dead by his neighbour after he was not seen for several days. Dead is John Lancelot Richards, 59, who was unemployed, of Monument Hill Squatting Area, Kuru Kururu, Soesdyke-Linden Highway.

It is suspected that Richards might have died between Tuesday and Wednesday last but his body was found a few days later.

According to Police reports, the deceased lived alone in a flat zinc shack in the area. However, his body was found by a neighbour who was passing his home and observed that he was lying face down on the ground.

At the time, he was clad

in a red jersey and a pair of black pants. He was seen lying next to a wooden bed frame. An alarm was raised, and his body was examined but no marks of violence seen.

Richard’s body was taken to Lyken’s Funeral Parlour awaiting a post-mortem.

About a month ago, the body of a 54-year-old man was discovered in a partial-

ly decomposed state at his Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD) home.

Harry Samuel of Lot 446 Back Street, Grove, was found on his bed in the front room of the two-storey wooden and concrete home.

It was reported that the man was found by his neighbour, who in turn raised an alarm and alerted the Police. He too lived alone.

our society as has happened in most other oil producing

developing countries, much less to ensure Guyana’s continued commitment to a low carbon and sustainable future,” WWF said.

Concerns were raised after the developer, TriStar Incorporated, cleared a large swathe of mangroves in order to establish a multi-million-dollar shore-based facility at the Versailles-Malgre Tout, Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) shoreline.

Reports indicate that the developer cleared more mangroves than it was permitted to, and stakeholders

have since expressed concerns about the negative impacts this move could have as it relates to flooding.

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill had subsequently said at a press conference that the clearing of the mangroves for this economic development would have no effect on Guyana’s international climate-related commitments or its reputation as a carbon sink.

Moreover, he had assured that the US$100 million facility would be complemented by steel piles that would be built to mitigate floods.

16 NEWS GWI to fast-track Vlissengen Road pipe project M MONDAY, MAY 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

inister of Housing and Water Collin Croal has assured residents of Newtown, Kitty, Georgetown, that the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) is doing all it can to

ing, caused by pipe-laying works.

The Minister along with GWI’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shaik Baksh and Director of Projects Aubrey Roberts visited the

Housing Minister Collin Croal and GWI CEO Shaik Baksh engaging residents of Newtown on Sunday

speed up works and relieve them of the inconvenience they have been experienc-

site at Republic, DaSilva and Lamaha Streets to inspect the status of works

being done.

Minister Croal noted that residents have expressed the discomfort they have been experiencing due to the length of time the project is taking to complete. As such, he emphasised that the history and initiation of the project is important, since this is what led to the prolonged delay and inconvenience meted out to residents in the project area.

Croal recalled that the contract for the Vlissengen Road pipe-laying project was signed on November 30, 2017, with eight requests for payment by the previous contractor – Barnes – totalling $114 million.

However, only 11 per cent of works have been completed, equivalent to some $39 million. As such, the PPP/C Administration inherited the below par works and the challenges

Grove man found murdered in hammock

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orty-seven-year-old Ramlall Singh of Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was reportedly murdered earlier this month at Perseverance Backdam, North West District (NWD).

Singh was reportedly killed on May 1, 2021, by a 15-yearold Venezuelan national while in his mining camp.

Following the incident, the teen was arrested and charged with murder. He was remanded to the Juvenile Holding Centre after appearing in the Matthews Ridge Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Dylon Bess.

It was reported that the now dead man and the teenager were known to each other and were at the time work-

Ramlall Singh was found dead in his hammock

ing at a camp owned by a Brazilian national.

Guyana Times understands Singh was killed by the teen after he found out that the now dead man was being paid more than him.

This reportedly led to a

confrontation and an argument during which Singh was reportedly stabbed multiple times about his body. He was later found motionless in his hammock.

The injured man was taken to the Port Kaituma District Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The dead man’s body was then transported to the hospital’s mortuary where a post-mortem examination was conducted.

Following the stabbing incident, Police had requested the public’s assistance in identifying the man. Sometime after, he was identified by his brother who had seen his photograph in another section of the media.

GWI Director of Projects explaining the works that are being done to Minister Croal

surrounding it. The matter is presently engaging the attention of the courts.

The Minister apologised for the inconveniences caused and thanked residents for their patience to date, adding that upon completion, they will benefit from improved quality of water and level of service, as well as better roads.

On the other hand, Baksh stated that GWI has

stood the expense outside of the contract sum to replace culverts in the area and the utility company will be writing to the Town Clerk of City Council to desilt the drains.

Meanwhile, the Projects Director anticipates that the work will take another 4-6 weeks for completion.

The remainder of works include the installation of 4-inch lines

along Vlissengen Road, between Garnett and Duncan Streets, pressure testing of the pipes, reinstating the roads and the interconnection of lines.

Residents who met with the team during the visit expressed gratitude for the interest shown in seeing the works to completion and welcomed the improved service and roads expected at the end of the project.

3 arrested with narcotics at Sherima Police checkpoint

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hree men were taken into Police custody following the discovery of a quantity of narcotics at Sherima Police Checkpoint, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), on Saturday.

Based on reports received, on the day in question at about 09:00h, motor lorry GZZ 8041 stopped at the Sherima Police Checkpoint and was subjected to a search along with its three occupants.

During the search on a haversack belonging to one of the men, a black purse with two Ensure milk bottles containing 18 zip lock bags of ganja were found.

In addition, 15 zip lock bags containing amphet-

The pills and ganja unearthed during the search

amines were also discovered in the said Ensure bottles.

When weighed, the marijuana amounted to 39 grams while the amphetamines amounted to 3 grams.

Further searches were carried out on the motor lorry and ranks found a green

and black haversack containing a cup with another quantity of ganja which when weighed amounted to 58 grams.

The occupants and driver were arrested as Police continue their investigations.

Teenager robbed of motorcycle by armed bandits

A

17-year-old boy was on Sunday robbed of his Black Haojou motorcycle by two armed men along Dennis Street, Campbellville, Georgetown.

Police stated that the teenager was riding the said motorcycle along Dennis Street in the company of his friend, who was on another motorcycle when they observed the two men trailing them on a black Jailing motorcycle.

The victim and his friend reportedly stopped at a vulcanizing shop along the said street to detract the perpetrators, but instead they also stopped at the same shop.

One of the perpetrators then walked up to the victim, took out a rusty handgun from his pants waist, pointed it at him and demanded that he hand over the said motorcycle. The armed men also threatened

to shoot the young man if he did not comply.

Soon after, the bandits took away the motorcycle and made good their escape. The matter was reported and an investigation was launched.

NEWS

17

MONDAY, MAY 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

37 countries in the Americas detected COVID variants – PAHO

T

ICT Development Goals and economic development

T

he ICT Development Goals are aligned to the Millennium Development Goals and are also part of the Geneva Action Plan which African Heads of States and Governments agreed to and signed in December 2003.

In this regard, concerted efforts by governments, the business sector, international community and civil society are necessary to ensure that the activities outlined therein are fully implemented. The following are ten key strategies identified and outlined in the Geneva Action Plan: 1. To connect villages with ICTs and community access points.

2. To connect universities, colleges, secondary schools and primary schools with ICTs. 3. To connect scientific and research centres.

4. To connect public libraries, cultural centres, museums, post offices and archives with ICTs. 5. To connect health centres and hospitals with ICTs. 6. To connect all local and central Government departments, and establish websites and emails.

7. To adapt all primary and secondary schools’ curricula to meet the challenges of the Information Society, taking into account national circumstances.

8. To ensure that all of the world’s populations have access to television and radio services.

9. To ensure that more than half of the world’s inhabitants have access to ICTs within their reach.

And 10. To encourage the development of content, and to put in place technical conditions in order to facilitate the presence and use of all world languages on the internet.

It has also been agreed that nations would operate within their economic strengths as they attend to these action plans, aimed at bringing about a global information society.

Importance of ICTs As evidenced by developments from other countries, ICT, as a sector, can contribute immensely to the GDP of a nation, and ICT, acting as an enabler, can result in improved market competitiveness of a nation’s products and services. ICTs can also impact positively on governance and other sectors of the economy. In turn, ICT can effectively assist international economic integration, improve living standards, narrow the digital divide, and improve biodiversity utilisation and management.

CT as a tool for socio-economic development Studies have shown that the rate of IT diffusion is correlated to the general level of socioeconomic development. A most recent finding is that ICT plays a vital role in advancing economic growth and reducing poverty.

A survey of firms carried out in 56 developing countries found that firms that use ICT grow faster, invest more, and are more productive and profitable than those that do not use ICT. ICTs can be used to directly influence the productivity, cost effectiveness and competitiveness in industries, which is the advantage that developing countries like Guyana can build their economies upon.

On the one hand, catching up on developed economies in terms of the application of technology and resulting economic benefits has never been easier. On the other hand, the results of not being able to adopt ICTs can be disastrous in an ever-changing, rapidly evolving global economy from almost every dimension of economic and human development.

As Tahir Hameed has put it, “People do not need word processing to survive, but they may want efficient ways of sharing information about livelihoods and employment. ICTs for human development is not about technology, but about people using the technology to meet basic needs. Understanding human requirements takes time and effort. The user needs assessments are essential in planning the introduction of ICTs to communities, no matter (what) their status or HDI (human development index).”

The ICT vision and strategy should focus on people, and not just technology. In so doing, it is important to develop both the ICT vision and strategy with people in mind and with the involvement of these very same people.

This, in turn, may require awareness. While planning and implementing an ICT agenda, it is worthwhile to examine established practices. Should Guyana’s national ICT agenda be sector-driven, or should it focus on broader issues and objectives, on benefits for society and the economy as a whole.

Many ICT strategies adopt a sectorial approach to ICT implementation.

The Digital Opportunities Initiative (DOI) report clearly states that, while there are many types of strategies that various countries have evolved to develop ICTs, evidence suggests that an integrated approach to ICT development and deployment is most likely to yield success in human, social and economic development over the long term.

To conclude this article, hereunder are stated a number of suggested policy thrusts to strengthen the ICT sector: 1. Develop and improve ICT infrastructure for all sectors of the economy (communications, electricity and transport).

2. Encourage full utilisation of existing communications infrastructure to reduce resource wastage.

3. Implement an integrated and equitable framework for accelerated ICT development and uptake.

4. Increase bandwidth on the national backbone and international gateways’ systems to enhance speed and efficiency of operations.

5. Develop supportive and enabling infrastructure to ensure citizens’ equitable access to ICTs, including disadvantaged groups and rural communities.

6. Promote local production of ICT products to ensure relevance of content and use of appropriate technologies that meet international standards.

7. Establish institutional mechanisms to co-ordinate inter-organisational planning, policy-making, and implementation of strategies to develop ICTs, taking into account the convergence of broadcasting, telecommunications and on-line computer services.

8. Implement measures to develop and retain skilled human resources in the ICTs sector.

9. Rationalise the ICT tariff structure to make ICTs more affordable and accessible.

10. Introduce and enforce stringent quality of service standards in the provision of ICT. 11. Create a conducive environment for investment through PPPs in the ICTs sector.

12. Promote local research and development in software and hardware relevant to all sectors of the economy.

13. Promote awareness and use of ICTs. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------About the Author: JC. Bhagwandin is a financial and economic analyst, and a lecturer at Texila American University, the Business College. The views expressed are exclusively his own, and do not necessarily represent those of this newspaper and the institutions he represents. For comments, send to jbbankingadvice@gmail.com.

he Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) has informed that the SARS-CoV-2 variants have been detected in 37 countries throughout the Americas.

It was outlined that variants of the coronavirus are to be expected, but genomic surveillance in the Americas should continue to detect any unusual or unexpected increase in cases, increase in lethality or change in clinical patterns that could affect control measures including vaccines.

During a Webinar for journalists, experts from the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) and the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz) discussed the impact on transmissibility, the severity of COVID-19, and the effectiveness of vaccines against them.

PAHO’s advisor on emerging viral diseases, Dr Jairo Mendez Rico revealed that mutations are expected in the virus’s evolution and adaptation process. When these variants have a potential impact or risk for public health, they are considered variants of concern.

The four variants of concern that have been detected in the Americas include those that originated in the United Kingdom (B.1.1.7), South Africa (B.1.351), Brazil (P.1), and India (B.1.617).

“So far, 37 countries and territories have confirmed the presence of one or more of the four variants of concern. Variant B.1.1.7 was confirmed in 34 countries; variant B.1.351 in 17, variant P.1 in 21 coun-

PAHO advisor on emerging viral diseases, Dr Jairo Mendez Rico

tries, and variant B.1.617 in eight countries,” PAHO notified.

However, Mendez said, “Although some (variants of concern) have demonstrated enhanced capacity to replicate and transmit, they are not more aggressive or severe.” He pointed out that from an evolutionary perspective, it is not in the virus’s interest to kill its host.

The higher the transmission level within populations, the more likely it is that viral mutations will occur. The experts agreed that slowing or halting transmission is the only way to avoid the appearance of new variants.

They recommended maintaining all public health measures where the virus is circulating, regardless of the variants. These include using face masks, maintaining physical distancing from others, avoiding crowded, closed spaces, opening windows for ventilation, hand hygiene, and getting vaccinated when vaccines become available. They also recommended strengthening both epidemiological and genomic surveillance to reduce the spread of the virus and possible mutations.

As part of the network, there are currently six regional reference laboratories assisting countries with genomic sequencing of variants: Fiocruz (Fundación Oswaldo Cruz) in Brazil, Instituto de Salud Pública in Chile, InDRE in Mexico, the Gorgas Institute in Panama, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, and the University of West Indies in Trinidad and Tobago.

Countries in the Americas first began using genomic surveillance during outbreaks of cholera years ago, and this continued with outbreaks of influenza, chikungunya, Zika, and yellow fever. This long experience is now being applied to keep a close look at SARS-CoV-2.

In addition to coordinating the surveillance network, PAHO provides countries and laboratories with reagents, organises training and updating sessions, and covers the costs for shipment of the variant samples to the reference laboratories.

Guyana had sent samples to CARPHA for genomic sequencing, to which variants of the virus were not detected. Talks were ongoing between other agencies for samples to be analysed.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

MONDAY, MAY 17, 2021

Regional

Chileans vote for 155-member PAHO: Experts urge monitoring assembly to draft new Constitution of COVID-19 variants

C

hileans are voting on Sunday in a second day of polls to elect 155 delegates to the Constituent Assembly, which will rewrite the country’s dictatorship-era Constitution in a bid to address deep-seated social inequality that sparked deadly protests in 2019.

About 14 million people are eligible to vote this weekend in what many consider to be Chile’s most important election since its return to democracy 31 years ago.

More than three million people, or approximately 20.4 per cent of the electorate, cast their ballot on Saturday, according to the country’s Electoral Service.

“I hope that we have a constitution that captures the soul of our nation,” President Sebastian Pinera said after casting his ballot in the capital Santiago.

Silvia Navarrete, a 35-year-old economist, was at a Santiago polling place with her young daughter in her arms.

She said she had voted for a system that “works for everyone, allowing all voices to be heard” and ensur-

T

A woman casts her vote in the first day of elections for Governors, Mayors, Councillors and constitutional assembly members to draft a new Constitution to replace Chile’s charter [Rodrigo Garrido/Reuters]

ing “that rights and duties are really fair for all human beings”.

Forty-year-old university professor Carlos Huertas said his ballot went to candidates who had been active in “this social revolution” – referring to the 2019 protests.

Chile’s Constitution dates from 1980, enacted at the height of dictator Augusto Pinochet’s 19731990 rule, and is widely blamed for blocking equitable progress in a country ranked as one of the most unequal among advanced economies.

This inequality was one of the main drivers of the October 2019 protests, resulting a month later – after 36 deaths – in the Government agreeing to a referendum on a new Constitution.

That plebiscite, initially scheduled for April 2020 but delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic, finally took place on October 25 last year.

The outcome was unequivocal: 80 per cent voted for a new Constitution to be drawn up by a body made up entirely of elected members.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

ful in the 2014 General Elections, reinstating complaints filed against them for the charge of treating.

Treating refers to directly or indirectly providing food, drink or entertainment to a person, during or after an election, with the aim of corruptly influencing that person’s vote. The law in Dominica is that a person convicted of treating is disqualified from sitting in the House of Assembly and cannot run for elections for seven years.

According to the charge read out in the court, in the run-up to the December 8,

2014 General Election, the Government Ministers did work together to corruptly influence the results of the election by engaging in the unlawful act of treating by hosting two free concerts at the Windsor Park Sport Stadium.

The DLP won the election by a 15-6 margin, and in its ruling, the CCJ dismissed the appeal and affirmed the order of the Court of Appeal, reinstating the Magistrate’s summonses for the appellants to appear to answer the election charge. (Excerpt from CMC)

Lawsuit against Skerrit, DLP members set for July

A

Magistrate set July 8 as the date for the start of a case against Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit and 14 other members of his ruling Dominica Labour Party (DLP).

Skerrit and his co-accused all pleaded not guilty on Thursday when they appeared in the Roseau Magistrate Court on a charge of treating.

Last month, the Trinidad-based Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) dismissed an appeal filed by Skerrit and other DLP candidates who were success-

he Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) says a group of experts has recommended the continued genomic surveillance in the Americas, including the Caribbean, to detect any unusual or unexpected increase in cases, increase in lethality or change in clinical patterns that could affect control measures, including vaccines, for variants of the SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes coronavirus (COVID-19).

During a webinar for

Journalists, PAHO said its experts, as well as those from the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), discussed key questions raised by the variants, including their impact on transmissibility, the severity of COVID-19, and the effectiveness of vaccines against them.

“Mutations are expected in the virus evolution and adaptation process,” said Dr Jairo Mendez Rico, PAHO’s advisor on emerging viral diseases. “When these variants have a po-

tential impact or risk for public health, they are considered variants of concern (VOC).”

PAHO said the four variants of concern that have been detected in the Americas include those that originated in the United Kingdom (B 1.1.7), South Africa (B.1.351), Brazil (P.1) and India (B.1.617).

So far, PAHO said 37 countries and territories have confirmed the presence of one or more of the four variants of concern.

(Excerpt from CMC)

Earthquake hits 3 Caribbean countries

A

n earthquake with a magnitude of 4.3, rocked three islands in the Eastern Caribbean early Sunday.

The Seismic Research Centre at the University of

the West Indies (UWI) said the quake occurred just after 08:00h and was felt 126 kilometres N of St John’s, Antigua and Barbuda; 131 km NE of Basseterre, St Kitts Nevis and 226

km NNW of Point-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe.

The earthquake had a focal depth of 10 kilometres.

There were no reports of damage or injuries. (CMC)

“We gave Venezuelan migrants a licence to dream”

W

hen the C o l o m b i a n Government announced in February that it would grant almost a million undocumented Venezuelan migrants legal status, the move was welcomed as "a historic gesture".

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, praised Colombia "for its extraordinary generosity".

Three months on from the announcement, Lucas Gómez, Colombia's presidential adviser on border matters, in an interview with the BBC is urging other countries in the region to follow suit and for the international community to step up financially to make the integration of the Venezuelan migrants a success.

The number of

Venezuelans who have left their country in the past five years to escape their homeland's political and economic crisis currently stands at more than 5.6 million.

That makes it the second largest migration crisis worldwide.

Almost one third of all of those who leave Venezuela go to neighbouring Colombia.

The country is currently hosting 1.74 million Venezuelan migrants who

are intending to stay in Colombia long term. More than half of them are undocumented, meaning they have trouble accessing essential services and getting work.

Most of them have left Venezuela since 2017, when mass anti-Government protests swept through Venezuela and an economic crisis started to cause widespread shortages of medicine, fuel, and food. (Excerpt from BBC News)

São Paulo Mayor dies of cancer at 41

UNC Senator knocks State of Emergency “by vaps”

A

day after the Prime Minister announced a State of Emergency and a curfew, United Nation Congress (UNC) Senator Jayanti Lutchmedial is asking what are the regulations, powers of armed forces and limitations on constitutional rights, and most of all, why does the country not already know.

“Almost an entire day later, we are still asking...

Where are the regulations?

What powers will the police and/or army have? What are the limitations on the constitutional rights of citizens?

"Should this not have been shared at yesterday’s press conference instead of the usual outpouring of crassness?” she asked in a

UNC Senator Jayanti Lutchmedial

post on her Facebook page on Sunday.

Taking Government to task for not already having regulations available when the SoE was announced on Saturday, Lutchmedial said Trinidad and Tobago was operating on “vaps thinly

disguised as responding to change and being guided by science”.

“Coming together to fight the virus does not mean accepting criminal incompetence and dereliction of duty.

Simple acts of proactivity on their part could have saved

lives and livelihoods.”

She added that the cause for the State of Emergency – TT’s parallel healthcare system being overwhelmed – was a result of the PNM’s “incompetence”.

“The health system didn’t collapse on its own. It buckled under the weight of PNM incompetence, just like our economy, energy sector and education sector.

“The failure to secure the border, the failure to procure vaccines in a timely manner, the failure to heed the warnings of the CMO about a potential surge in cases and the failure to reinforce our health sector to withstand such an uptick, were it to come, has all brought us here.” (Excerpt from Trinidad Newsday)

B

runo Covas, the Mayor of Brazil's São Paulo, died of cancer Sunday, the city's press office announced. He was 41.

Covas was diagnosed with cancer in 2019. It was first discovered in his digestive system and later spread to his bones. He was hospitalised on May 2 at São Paulo's Hospital SirioLibanes, where his condition worsened.

Covas was elected vice mayor in 2016 and became São Paulo's youngest mayor in 2018, after Joao Doria left city hall to run for State Governor. Covas was re-elected in 2020 with almost 60 per cent of the vote.

With Covas' death, Vice Mayor Ricardo Nunes will become Mayor of São Paulo, Brazil's largest city.

Covas was divorced and had one son, 15-year-old Tomas. (CNN)

guyanatimesgy.com

MONDAY, MAY 17, 2021

19

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS US gasoline shortage eases, but pumps still dry in some areas

G

asoline shortages that have plagued the US East Coast over the last week slowly eased on Sunday as the country's largest fuel pipeline network recovered from a crippling cyberattack.

The six-day closure of Colonial Pipeline's 5500-mile (8900km) system was the most disruptive cyberattack on record, preventing millions of barrels of gasoline, diesel and jet fuel from reaching fuel tanks throughout the eastern United States.

Thousands of gas stations ran dry as supplies failed to arrive and drivers fearing a prolonged outage filled tanks and jerry cans. Refiners and fuel distributors are racing to recover before the Memorial Day holiday weekend at the end of May, the traditional start of the peak-demand summer driving season.

"Colonial Pipeline is currently shipping at normal rates, based on shipper nominations," company spokesman Eric Abercrombie said in an email.

"It will take some time for the supply chain to fully catch up."

In Washington, DC, 80 per cent of stations were still empty, according to tracking firm GasBuddy.

Elsewhere, roughly half of the stations in North and South Carolina were still out and at least a third of gas stations were without fuel in Maryland, Virginia and Georgia, GasBuddy data showed.

US gasoline demand on Saturday dropped nearly 15 per cent from a week earlier, according to GasBuddy, as drivers pulled back on fuel hoarding.

Widespread panic buying even caused shortages in some areas not served by the pipeline.

Average nationwide gasoline prices are at their highest since 2014, with a gallon of regular unleaded at US$3.044 on Sunday, up from US$3.042 the previous day and US$2.96 a week ago, according to the American Automobile Association.

Overall outages stood at 12,870 stations, down from 13,450 on Saturday and a peak of more than 16,000, said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, as drivers reduced panic buying and stations replenished supplies. There are around 150,000 gas stations in the United States, the world's largest oil consumer.

"Every day gasoline supplies are getting better as Colonial operates at capacity and additional oil tankers from the Gulf Coast make their way to the East Coast," said Andy Lipow of Lipow Oil Associates in Houston.

Operators of the Colonial system, which transports 100 million gallons of gasoline, diesel and jet fuel daily to East Coast markets from Texas refineries, began resuming operations on Wednesday following the six-day outage.

Alpharetta, Georgia-based Colonial said it would resume its regular nomination process to allocate capacity to companies that use the line on Monday. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Israel Gaza conflict: Netanyahu says strikes to “continue at full force”

I

srael's military operation against Palestinian Hamas militants in Gaza will continue "with full force", Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said.

"We are acting now, for as long as necessary, to restore calm... It will take time," Netanyahu warned.

Gaza officials said 42 people, including 16 women and 10 children, died in the latest Israeli air strikes.

Ten people, including two children, have been killed in rocket attacks on Israel since Monday, Israel said.

The overall death toll in Gaza now stands at 188 people, including 55 children and 33 women, with 1230 injured, according to the

Hamas-controlled Health Ministry. Israel says dozens of militants are among the dead.

Israel's military says it has been targeting leaders and infrastructure linked to Hamas.

Hamas launched a new

barrage of rockets towards southern Israel on Sunday afternoon.

Meanwhile, the UN Security Council is holding an emergency meeting, with international mediators hoping to broker a ceasefire.

UN Secretary General

Antonio Guterres opened the meeting by describing the violence as "utterly appalling" and said the fighting must stop immediately.

The Israeli air strikes the deadliest attack in the conflict so far - hit a busy street just after midnight on Sunday.

Palestinian rescue workers have been working through the rubble of at least three destroyed buildings, pulling out bodies and searching for survivors.

Israel's military said it struck the homes of both Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and his brother Muhammad Sinwar, whom it described as head of logistics and manpower for the movement.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

The cyclone is expected to cross Gujarat with wind gusts of up to 175 kmph (109 mph).

Nearly 150,000 people will be moved from villages and low-lying areas near the coast and directions have been issued to complete the evacuation process by Sunday evening, the Gujarat Government said in a statement.

As the cyclone has moved north at least six people have been killed in the western states of Goa and

Karnataka, according to officials and statements.

Further south, 31 boats registered with the state of Tamil Nadu were missing, a coastguard official told Reuters.

The meteorological agency also warned that there could be flooding of escape routes. Disruption to railway services was also expected until May 21.

The National Crisis Management Committee also chaired a meeting with different states on Sunday

and said that nearly 80 disaster management teams have been deployed in different states.

Rescue and relief teams from the army, navy and coastguard, along with ships and aircraft, have also been deployed.

"All measures being taken to evacuate people in the areas affected by the cyclone so as to ensure zero loss of life," the Government said in a statement. (Excerpt from Reuters)

This young girl was rescued from rubble in Gaza City on Sunday

Thousands evacuated from India’s west coast as cyclone lashes states

I

ndia is evacuating thousands of people from low-lying areas along its western coast as a powerful cyclone that has killed at least six people is expected to make landfall on Tuesday morning in the state of Gujarat.

Cyclone Tauktae, which formed in the Arabian sea, has already brought lashing rain and winds that damaged houses and uprooted trees to parts of western and southern India.

No alternative to vaccine passports, says Dubai airport boss

T

he boss of the world's busiest airport for international passengers has said COVID passports are the only way to restart mass foreign travel.

Dubai Airports chief executive Paul Griffiths told the BBC: "I don't think

there is an alternative."

Critics of the digital systems argue they discriminate against those who cannot get vaccinated.

But Griffiths said he is a complete supporter of the documents, which he said are "inevitable".

Panic buying in Taiwan as new COVID-19 rules kick off

A

uthorities in Taiwan have appealed to people to avoid panic buying of items such as instant noodles and toilet paper as new curbs on gatherings and movement took effect to rein in the spread of COVID-19.

Taiwan raised its coronavirus alert level in the capital Taipei and the surroundings on Saturday, imposing two weeks of restrictions that will shut many venues and limit gatherings.

While total infections since the start of the pandemic remain low at 1475, a recent spike in community transmissions has alarmed a population that had become accustomed to life staying close to normal,

with no full lockdowns of the kind seen elsewhere.

In messages late on Saturday, the President, Premier and Economy Ministry took to Facebook to say there was no need to hoard or rush to the shops, after people scrambled to stock up on basic goods, mainly instant noodles and toilet paper.

“After more than a year of preparation, the country’s anti-pandemic materials, civilian goods and raw materials are sufficient, and the stores are also operating as usual to replenish goods,” President Tsai Ingwen said.

The Economy Ministry showed pictures of warehouses piled to the ceiling

A man takes instant noodles from a near-empty shelf as customers rush to buy their groceries, after the Government advised people to reduce leaving their homes and limit gatherings due to an increasing number of locally transmitted COVID-19 infections, in Taipei, Taiwan, May 16, 2021 [Ann Wan/Reuters]

with boxes of instant noodles, saying supplies were “like a mountain” with plenty of toilet paper and canned food to go around as well.

While not ordering a total lockdown, the Government is urging people to stay at home as much as possible.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Coronavirus passports could become as vital as security checks, like these in Dubai, for international travel

"I think the problem is not the vaccine passport and its discrimination. It's the need to roll things out and have a proper globally equitable vaccine programme," he said.

The World Health Organisation and World Travel & Tourism Council are among those opposed to vaccine passports amid fears they will create a "two-tier society".

Last month, Dr Mike Ryan from the WHO repeated concerns about the ethical and fairness issues surrounding vaccine passports.

"They do need to be considered, especially in a world where vaccine is distributed in such a grossly inequitable way," he said.

The aviation industry

is desperately looking for ways to pick up speed after the damage wrought by Government restrictions and a collapse in passenger confidence.

According to the Air Transport Action Group, it was making a US$3.5 trillion annual contribution to the global economy before the pandemic.

However, with flights grounded, the numbers going through Dubai International Airport have collapsed in a similar way to the rest of the industry.

Even so, 2020 was Dubai's seventh year in a row as the world's busiest airport for international passengers, having overtaken London Heathrow in 2014. (Excerpt from BBC News)

20

MONDAY, MAY 17, 2021

guyanatimesgy.com

ARCHIE

ARIES (March 21April 19)

It’s OK to change your mind or head in a new direction. You’ll gain stability if you follow your heart and pursue something that makes you feel good about who you are and what you are doing.

A stalemate is likely if you aren’t willing to compromise.

(April 20Give others the freedom to do May 20) as they please, and you will dodge criticism. You’ll gain the most if you pursue knowledge and new skills.

TAURUS

DILBERT

Speak the truth, say what’s on your mind and clear up (May 21- any misconceptions. Personal June 20) growth, fitness and educational pursuits are favored. Simplify your life. A commitment will lead to stability.

GEMINI

CANCER (June 21July 22)

PEANUTS

Pay attention, ask questions, and don’t commit to something without understanding what’s required.

Someone will take advantage of you by making tempting offers based on empty promises.

Emotions will spin out of LEO control due to the changes go(July 23ing on around you. Take part Aug. 22) in what’s happening to ensure that you remain in a good position. Intellect and charm will be necessary.

CALVIN AND HOBBES

SUDOKU

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Don’t ignore what others do or say. If you want something done correctly, do it yourself. A steady pace, honest opinion and hard work will pay off. Make adjustments as necessary.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Concentrate on what makes you happy. It’s time for a change, and doing something that lifts your spirits and gives you a new lease on life is encouraged. Embrace new beginnings.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Push yourself out of your comfort zone and into something that will challenge you.

Being honest with yourself as well as others will eliminate uncomfortable situations and stress.

Take control and deal SAGITTARIUS with sensitive issues be(Nov. 23fore it’s too late. Decide on a Dec. 21) commitment to someone or something, and it will help you move forward with confidence. Romance is favored.

Take charge, get things

CAPRICORN done and don’t give in to (Dec. 22someone trying to part you Jan. 19) from your cash. A deal is good

only if you get something of equal value in return. Make your world less stressful.

SATURDAY'S WORD – CUTLERS

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

Stop hesitating. Add up the negatives and positives, and consider adjustments that will make you happy.

Personal improvements, fitness and romance will lead to a better frame of mind.

Channel your energy into something constructive. Make (Feb. 20March 20) changes that improve your life. Participate in something that will make a difference.

Face facts, and do what’s best for you and your loved ones.

PISCES

MONDAY, MAY 17, 2021

21

Djokovic outlasts Sonego to set up Rome final with Nadal D

efending champion Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal will clash for the Italian Open title after the top two seeds advanced to the final of the Masters tournament

lier in the day, was also stretched to three sets in the semi-final before overcoming local favourite Lorenzo Sonego.

Sonego, the first Italian to make the semi-finals in

Rafael Nadal

on Saturday.

Djokovic, who beat Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas 4-6 7-5 7-5 in a rain-delayed quarter-final ear-

Rome in 14 years after he beat world number seven Andrey Rublev earlier on Saturday, had his dream run ended by Djokovic,

who triumphed 6-3 6-7(5) 6-2.

Djokovic failed to convert two match points in the second set that lasted 91 minutes as Sonego forced a tiebreak, where the Serb lost a 4-2 lead.

However, the world number one controlled proceedings in the decider and advanced after Sonego's return on match point found the net. Earlier, Nadal beat Reilly Opelka 6-4 6-4 to move into the final in Rome for the 12th time.

The match was Nadal's 500th on clay where he has a formidable 458-42 record and the Spaniard advanced after twice breaking the big-serving American.

"When you play these kind of matches, you know it's not going to be a beautiful match... you're not going to find rhythm in the match. You're going to have just a few chances to break," Nadal told reporters. "It's important not

England v New Zealand: Archer elbow injury concern for Test series

E

ngland fast bowler Jofra Archer is an injury concern for the two Tests against New Zealand next month after a recurrence of his elbow problem. Archer was unable to bowl on Saturday during Sussex's County Championship match with Kent and did not bowl on the final day on Sunday.

The 26-year-old pulled out of the now-postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) to focus on his recovery. He also had surgery on a hand injury sustained while cleaning a fish tank.

The first Test against New

Zealand at Lord's starts on June 2.

Having taken two wickets in the first innings, Archer had bowled only five overs in Kent's second innings. But after rain delayed play until 17:00 BST in Hove, it appeared as though he was being gestured to return to the attack by Sussex Captain Ben Brown.

Instead, George Garton ended up bowling the second over after the restart from the Sea End. "There was some confusion over the state of Jofra's elbow," Sussex Head Coach Ian Salisbury told BBC Radio

Sussex.

"Ben Brown thought he was going to bowl and there was confusion over that, but obviously his elbow is sore so he couldn't bowl.

"Any other info about his elbow, unfortunately that's the England and Wales Cricket Board's job to mention that."

Archer cut his hand cleaning his fish tank in January, before England's tour of India, where he played in two of the four Tests and all five Twenty20s. He had an injection in March to help deal with the longstanding elbow problem. (BBC Sport)

to suffer much with your serve because if you are... you feel the stress all the time.

So the positive thing today, I just faced break points in one game during the whole match."

Djokovic was trailing Tsitsipas 6-4 2-1 when Friday's quarter-final was halted by rain, but the Serb raised

his game at key moments to twice come back from a break down in the deciding set. Djokovic has a 2927 career record against Nadal, but the Spaniard has won five of their eight matches in Rome. (Reuters)

Novak Djokovic

RHTY&SC’s 31st Annual Award Ceremony

Ramson Jr sworn in as RHTY&SC patron Stabroek News, Guyana Times Journalists among Dolphin awardees

C

ulture, Youth and Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr was sworn in as the sixth patron of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) as well as conferred as one of the Dolphin Award recipients.

Both of Ramson’s parents, Charles Sr and Leila, received this prestigious award.

Also receiving the award were Guyana Jaguars’ Head Coach, Esuan Crandon, Stabroek News Sports’ Romario Samaroo, Guyana Times' Brandon Corlette, ET Dharry, Fiazal Jaferally, Navindra Persaud, Dr Cecil Beharry, Dr Ghansham Sukdeo, Inspector Sonia Ward, Anasha Ally, and Terry Holder.

Additionally, 24 persons were bestowed with the Zenith award, which is the second highest award the club offers. Those recipients were Lucy Pike, Joyce Roberts, Mavinesh Persaud, Gregory Rambarran, Navin Raghoo, Patrick Lewis, Tyrone Pottaya, Ravindranauth Kissoonlall, Leon Wiggins, Dawn Hicks, Bridgette McDonald, Terry Pike, Erva Giddings, Mark Papannah, Franklyn Ross,

Isla Corlette, the mother of Sport Journalist Brandon Corlette, receiving the Dolphin Award from Culture, Youth and Sport Minister and RHTY&SC Patron Charles Ramson Jr

Joel Pike, Pamela Brush, Elizabeth Brush, Ashton Hendrax, Errol Hendrax, Keith Hicks, Sohan Harry, Neville Beaton and the hardworking Public Relations Officer (PRO) Simon Naidu, who received the club's worker of the year.

The Promising players’ award went to former Berbice Under-19 spinner Keith Simpson, former youth pacer Sylus Tyndall, national youth

players Junior Sinclair and Jonathan Rampersaud, Berbice youth wicket-keeper Chandrapaul Govindan, Jeremy Sandiha, Matthew Pottaya, Christopher Deroop and female player Oma Mattadin.

The ceremony was held at the St Francis Training Centre. A total of eight promising cricketers received bicycles and eight additional promising cricketers received special prizes.

22

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By Brandon Corlette

C

ulture, Youth and Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr graced the finish of the Independence Three-Stage cycle race at Thirst Park with his presence, and expressed his satisfaction with the return of this race, which had not been hosted for five years. He was impressed with the excitement shown by all those involved in the cycling event.

The Minister had been dismayed that this marquee cycling event had been stopped for an extended period. According to Ramson Jr, the Independence ThreeStage had not been held over the past five years as a result of the previous Administration not providing sponsorship toward the

sport and the event.

The Minister disclosed that hosting the Independence Three-Stage was the topic of the first conversation he had with the Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF). "At that stage I had committed that if this is the marquee event I am going to make sure we set aside the money coming out of the new budget," Ramson Jr told media operatives.

He added: "Had it not been for the sponsorship, they would not have been able to have this race, but I am really pleased with the excitement the sport brings.”

Speaking on the issue of richer rewards for this race, Ramson said that businesses have been tighter with their budgets and events such as the race go on the chopping board, since the Ministry

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was not the sole sponsor of the event.

He said the Ministry has been in conversation with the business community.

"We want to let them know that developing the country is about developing the peo-

ple," Ramson Jr said, while noting the race did not have more businesses on board as its hosting had been uncertain.

"In this race, there was a bit of iffiness about whether it was going to happen as

well. Companies don't really operate in that sphere of uncertainty ,so you need planning in advance and for all the core sports we said we want national events, something that you can build up to."

Reds: “We gave contracts to Alisson’s stoppage-time people that played 4 matches” header keeps Liverpool’s

V

– veteran commentator believes CWI made big blunders on retainers

eteran international commentator Joseph “Reds” Perreira has launched a stinging rebuke of Cricket West Indies (CWI) and the West Indies Players Association (WIPA) for the timing of contracting players for the upcoming calendar year.

In addition, the 81-yearold Perreira says he is totally and utterly disappointed that there has been no cover for fast bowler Shannon Gabriel, who in his estimation has deteriorated.

“We have given contracts to people who played four Test matches in a year; that cannot be fair,” Perreira said on the Line & Length TV Show on Sportsmax.

“The omission of (Shamar) Brooks and (Roston) Chase was surprising given the limited amount of cricket they played, I mean two series?

Four or five Tests? I was hoping that WIPA would not have pushed for contracts now, especially since there is no First-Class season.

“You dropped players and don’t give them contracts, so how will you adequately judge their form and scores. Ideally, because of all that’s going on, those contracts should have been delayed until after the South Africa or Australia tour….or even Pakistan,” he passionately explained. “(Shimron) Hetmyer not given a contract? He was losing weight and looked good in the IPL and we have

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top-4 fate in own hands

The goal is, as you may imagine, the first Alisson has scored in his career

G Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira

to be careful not to lose players. Chairman Roger Harper said they are working with him, but doing what?! We just rushed a bit this year with the contracts,” he said.

As far as Gabriel is concerned, Perreira pointed to the fact that the 33-year-old who has 157 wickets from 54 Tests has slumped over the last season and CWI should have seen fit to contract two younger fast bowlers as cover for him.

“Gabriel is getting on and had an operation on his ankle. He is not the same! He struggled for rhythm and pace in England, seemed out of sorts against Sri Lanka, and in my estimation can’t play back-to-back Tests matches anymore.

“Gabriel is not bowling 140kmph easily and one good spell is not good enough. Surely, if you pick him, then the Board should have contracted two young fast bowlers to work alongside him and (Kemar) Roach,” he said.

The Guyanese Perreira who is a St Lucian resident also endorsed the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground, previously the Beausejour Stadium as the venue to hosts the West Indies v South Africa series and advocates for a crowd of at least 1000 spectators in the Johnson Charles stand, once they can prove a certificate of vaccination against the COVID-19 virus.

(Sportsmax)

oalkeeper Alisson scored an incredible injury-time winner as Liverpool claimed a significant victory in their quest to achieve a Premier League top-four finish by coming from behind to beat West Brom. With three points a must and just seconds left of a game in which the visitors had been frustrated by the obstinate and disciplined Baggies, the Brazilian keeper came up for a corner.

It was surely the Reds’ final chance to snatch the win and so it proved as Alisson rose to glance Trent Alexander-Arnold’s delivery into the far corner of the net to send the away side into delirium.

In an example of extraordinary timing, it is the first time a goalkeeper has scored a competitive goal for Liverpool in their entire history, dating back to 1892. The stunning moment takes the Reds just a point and a place behind Chelsea in fourth and three points worse off than third-placed Leicester

with two games to go.

That the Blues and Foxes face each other in their next league game gives Jurgen Klopp’s side a huge opportunity to take control of their own destiny in the race for Champions League qualification when they travel to Burnley on Wednesday.

Things had got off to a terrible start for the reigning champions at the Hawthorns with Hal Robson-Kanu capping his first Premier League start since December 2017 with a neat side-foot finish to give West Brom the lead.

A typically incisive Mohamed Salah finish brought the visitors level, with the Egyptian’s low shot inside the far post taking him to 22 goals for the season, level with Harry Kane at the top of the scoring charts. With Roberto Firmino firing against the woodwork, Sadio Mane seeing a finish ruled out for offside, and others profligate in front of goal, it looked as though the Reds had blown their chance. (BBC Sport)

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Independence Three-Stage cycling...

Briton John wins overall, Jamual John clinches 3rd stage – champion cyclist calls for richer rewards for this event

Story and photos by

U

Twenty riders started in the final stage, which saw numerous cyclists abandon the race Brandon Corlette

nited We Stand cyclist Briton John emerged as the victor of the Independence Three-Stage cycling race which was held on Saturday and Sunday across Guyana. In the 68-mile third and final stage which commenced at Linden and concluded at Banks DIH Thirst

Foundation had a time of 6:57:09.

DeNobrega finished third with 7:01:56, Jeffrey in 7:02:17 and Christopher Griffith in 7:02:23.

Alexis Mendes was the top masters with a time of 7:02:20, which is sixth overall.

The female and junior segments of the race saw Linden's Susan Hamilton emerging victorious while

King of the Three-Stage Briton John

Park, Jamual John finished first, stopping the clock at two hours 42 minutes, while the overall winner, Briton, finished second.

Raynauth "Obeah Man" Jeffrey pipped Team Evolution's Paul DeNobrega in an intense sprint for third place in the final stage. Kemuel Moses rode in fifth while Curtis Dey came in sixth.

Earlier, Jeffrey made early attacks, bossing the way but it was a cat-and-mouse battle on the highways. While there were a host of attacks, the most remarkable one came from the Johns. The duo attacked on the hill just after Splashmins Resort, the last hill on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway and no cyclist had the class to follow the duo who built up a huge gap. The peloton lost all purpose as the Johns displayed great strength to leave them behind in their dust.

The Johns then tailed each other, exchanging the lead, and Jamual showed why he was the better sprinter when he sprinted away from Briton near Rahaman's for the finish, opening a three-second gap.

Overall standing Briton had an overall time of six hours 56 minutes and 57 seconds while Jamual of Team

Berbicians Shenika Teixeira and Aneisha Crandon came in second and third respectively.

The females rode the entire first stage, but the second stage commenced at the Mahaica Bridge and concluded at Carifesta Avenue.

The junior competitors were only required to ride the first two stages. Berbice's David Hicks won the second stage with ease ahead of first-stage winner Mario Washington and Aaron Newton. Ending up fourth overall was the 13-yearold Alex Leung.

Briton calls for more rewards After his win, Briton said he was looking forward to winning the upcoming national championships as well. Talking through the third stage of the race, Briton said there were a lot of attacks but his team protected him. He told reporters that he saw an opportunity at Splashmins and

The winning moment for Jamual, who finished second overall and first in the third stage

Jamual was the lone follower.

The happy United We Stand rider said this was his second Three-Stage race, and his first as a senior. "I feel good and I am very thankful."

Briton, who won the first stage from Corriverton to New Amsterdam, and finished fourth in the second stage

from Rosignol to Georgetown, said the first-place prize of $70,000 was not good enough.

"It's not good, it's bad sport, racing my heart out, three stages and you get junk change. You have a whole team that you have to divide the money between and that is not good enough, when you race

e Jeffrey won a close rac Raynauth "Obeah Man" ce pla d thir for ga bre No De against Paul the

your heart out," Briton said.

The premier cycling event is organised by the Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF) with full sponsorship from the Government of Guyana though the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry . The National Covid-19 Task Force had given

green light.

The traffic ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) also played a significant role, despite some minor accidents on the opening day of the race. The next cycling event – the National Cycling Championships – is set for the following weekend.

MONDAY, MAY 17, 2021

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

Independence Three-Stage cycling...

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Briton John wins overall, Jamual John clinches 3rd stage – champion cyclist calls for richer rewards for this event

Reds: “We gave contracts to people that played 4 matches” Page 22

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