Guyana Times - Saturday, February 13, 2021

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THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 4558

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021

$383.1B Budget to advance economic recovery, rebound critical sectors See story on page 3

…2021 growth projected at 20.9%

No new taxes; Govt reduces water rate, removes VAT from basic food items, data …as sweeping relief measures announced in Budget 2021 Page 2

3000 persons GuySuCo to get to be employed $2B for critical capital works

by Wales gasto-shore project Page 7

PRICE

$80 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Woman fatally stabs abusive P15 lover

2 more deaths raise COVID-19 death toll to 186 …46 new cases in 24h

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Security guard dies after P15 being struck down by cop

Teen admits to attempting to extort $10M from ex-boyfriend for P11 rape Taxi driver, businessman remanded for cocaine P8 trafficking

Page 9

Winston Brassington wins $10M defamation lawsuit against Kaieteur News

Page 11

Unauthorised food vendors under GA- P12 FDD’s radar

2 NEWS

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

No new taxes; Govt reduces water rate, removes VAT from basic food items, data …as sweeping relief measures announced in Budget 2021

F

inance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh on Friday announced a series of measures to bring relief to Guyanese including the reduction of water rates and the removal of Value-Added Tax (VAT) on residential and individual data use.

During his presentation of the 2021 budget to the National Assembly, Minister Singh underscored that water is essential to daily activities, both at the residential and the commercial level. To this end, he revealed a five per cent reduction in water tariffs across the board, targeting all levels of consumers.

According to the Finance Minister, Guyanese were burdened with the VAT that was imposed on water consumption while the water subsi-

dy for pensioners had been stripped – all at the hands of the APNU/AFC coalition.

Nevertheless, he noted that within two months after taking office in August 2020, the PPP/C Government undertook steps to reverse these harsh measures including restoring the water subsidy to senior citizens from which some 28,270 have benefitted thus far.

In addition, Dr Singh posited that the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) has prepared a new 5-year strategic plan for the period 2021-2025 which is aligned with national priorities and advances the Government’s mission to provide clean, reliable and affordable water with emphasis on increasing access to treated water coverage to 90 per

cent, reduction of non-revenue water (NRW), the modernisation of the sanitisation infrastructure network, integrated water resource management and wastewater treatment.

At the end of 2020, some $2.7 billion was expanded on several projects under the water sector and this year, another $4 billion has been allocated to procure equipment and improve and expand the water supply network systems across the country. The Finance Minister added that provision was made for the drilling of new wells along with the upgrading of photovoltaic systems, storage facilities, distribution networks and service connections across Regions One, Three, Seven, Eight and Nine.

Further, the upgrading of distribution networks across Regions Eight and Nine will be undertaken.

Another $275 million has been budgeted in 2021 to address the issue of non-revenue water with the pro-

curement and installation of 20,000 water meters for Residential and Business Areas across the country.

Additionally, $200 million has been allocated to expand the Sophia, Eccles, Covent Garden, Grove, Friendship and Vergenoegen water treatment plants to benefit over 50,000 residents. Further, Government will upgrade the transmission mains between Church to Cummings Streets and Cemetery Road to Mandela Avenue benefiting over 35,000 residents, and has allocated $100 million to procure electromechanical equipment for the rehabilitation of water production facilities.

No new taxes

The PPP/C Government presented the $383.1 billion 2021 budget, themed “A Path to Recovery, Economic Dynamism and Resilience”, without the introduction of any new taxes.

On the contrary, the sweeping relief measures announced by the Finance Minister on Friday saw the removal of VAT from a slew of food items and household necessities to alleviate the burden on taxpayers.

According to Dr Singh, Government will restore to the zero-rated status all of the food items and other basic household necessities that were previously zero-rated in 2015 before the last PPP/C regime demitted office. These items include basic wheaten flour, basic breads, oats, unflavoured cracker biscuits, cooking oil, locally produced bed sheets and pillowcases, toothbrushes, etc. This, he noted, is in fulfilment of another one of the PPP/C’s manifesto promises.

Removal of VAT and duties

Meanwhile, Government has been proactive in working with stakeholders in the diffusion of ICT across all sectors and regions of Guyana as a means of economic and social empowerment for Guyanese.

Against this backdrop, the Minister announced the removal of VAT on data for residential and individual use.

Dr Singh further reminded of his Administration’s swift liberalisation of the telecommunications sector and the ensuing benefits that competition has brought through

lower prices and a push to improve services have delivered on the initial step of the PPP/ C’s promise and vision for enhanced ICT services.

“Our Government will move swiftly to ensure that the benefits of the liberalisation reach all sectors in the form of faster and cheaper internet service, which will serve as a catalyst for ICTrelated business development and will make business more efficient and resilient and drive job creation,” he noted.

Already, the Finance Minister noted that over 450 jobs will be created in the area of business process outsourcing (BPO) with the operationalisation of call centres at Tuschen, Enmore, and Linden, partly facilitated by decreased cost of internet service. Government, he added, will also be engaging with the BPO sector with a view to facilitating scaled-up presence in Guyana. As such, $67 million was allocated to rehabilitate the facility in Linden which is expected to host the call centre there.

In addition, Budget 2021 also caters for the removal of duties on ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles) for use in the hinterland. Dr Singh posited that this will reduce the cost of transportation to hinterland communities for operators.

Moreover, other sweeping relief measures introduced in the 2021 budget includes a cash grant of $15,000 per child to be given to the parents of children in the nursery, primary, and secondary schools in the public school system.

Government will also be raising Old Age Pensions from $20,500 to $25,000 with effect from January 1, 2021 – a measure that will benefit over 60,000 persons and put an additional $4 billion of disposable income in their hands.

Another measure is the increase of Public Assistance payment from $9000 to $12,000 monthly, benefiting over 13,000 persons and providing an additional $500 million in disposable income to these individuals.

According to Minister Singh, the measures introduced in the 2021 budget will add a further $10 billion to last year’s $40 billion annualised cost. (G8)

NEWS

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, February 13 – 04:30h – 06:00h and Sunday, February 14 – 04:30h – 06:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, February 13 – 05:20h – 16:50h and Sunday, February 14 – 05:50h – 07:20h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Expect sunshine during the day. There will be partly cloudy skies at night. Temperatures should range between 21 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

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

High Tide: 16:52h reaching a maximum height of 2.69 metres.

Low Tide: 11:27h and 23:48h reaching minimum heights of 0.6 metre and 0.55 metre.

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COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Change %

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$1825.30

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$1832.00 0.00%

$383.1B Budget to advance economic recovery, rebound critical sectors …2021 growth projected at 20.9%

I

n a more than four-hourlong presentation, senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh on Friday presented to the National Assembly a whopping $383.1 billion budget for 2021 which is expected to catapult the country’s economic recovery and turn around the performance of critical sectors which faced major setbacks last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the protracted electoral process.

Budget 2021 was presented under the theme “A Path to Recovery, Economic Dynamism and Resilience” and it is the first full-term budget of the Dr Irfaan Aliled Administration since its assumption to office in August 2020.

This year’s budget is underpinned by six main pillars: navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring a diverse and resilient productive sector, initiating investment, establishing world-class social services, improving public services, and ensuring respect for the Constitution and the rule of law.

“With these objectives in mind, this budget ensures we recover as a country both from 2020 and from the last five years of trauma; puts in place the policies needed to catalyse rapid economic growth in the near and medium-term; and lays the foundation needed to ensure that that growth is not transitory but is sustainable for the longer term,” the Finance Minister explained.

Economic performance in 2020

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic and the electoral crisis, the economy grew by 43.5 per cent – a growth which was largely driven by the country’s emerging oil and gas industry.

The country’s non-oil economy, however, contracted by 7.3 per cent with sectors such as fishing, mining, manufacturing, forestry, and services recording declines.

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

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

With respect to the production of other crops, despite excessive rainfall in November and December, this sector is estimated to have grown by 6.6 per cent in 2020.

The Finance Minister explained that the COVID-19 pandemic would have resulted in increased demand for many fruits, particularly citrus.

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

and vegetable products.

Interest rate also remained low throughout 2020, he noted.

Targets for 2021

Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh

are estimated to have grown by 10.4 per cent, 34.1 per cent, and 3.4 per cent, respectively.

On the other hand, the forestry sector contracted by 8.1 per cent while the fishing industry contracted by 17.1 per cent.

With respect to forestry, the Finance Minister explained that the poor performance is primarily driven by an 11.8 per cent decline in sawn wood production, reflecting the slowdown in construction activities.

Regarding fishery, he said the decline was largely a result of fewer vessels going out to fish due to lower domestic and external demand stemming from the pandemic.

On the matter of the extractive industries, mining and quarrying expanded by 303.7 per cent in 2020. The overall growth above 2019, the Finance Minister said, was driven by the emerging oil and gas and support services industry, which grew by 2603.3 per cent over the previous year, given that 2020 represented the first full year of the industry’s operations.

However, the gold min-

ing subsector contracted by 7.8 per cent. Dr Singh said this can be attributed to the fact that one of the large gold mining companies ceased production in July 2020 to facilitate a transfer of ownership, and only resumed operations in November. He was referring to the operations at Aurora Gold Mine in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) which was taken over by Zijin Mining.

The other mining subsector, which comprises diamond and sand mining, contracted by 42.7 per cent in 2020.

Manufacturing contracted by 8.6 per cent, construction by 6.3 per cent, and services by 9.4 per cent. Meanwhile, the overall balance of payments recorded a surplus of US$60.6 million in 2020, compared to a deficit of US$48.9 million recorded in 2019.

The Finance Minister further revealed that the 12-month inflation rate in December 2020 was recorded at 0.9 per cent, mainly as a result of lower energy prices which offset higher food prices, largely driven by higher prices of meat, fish and eggs,

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

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

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

In the oil and gas subsector, the daily rate of production for 2021 is expected to be just over 109,000 barrels of oil per day. This subsector is projected to grow by 46.7 per cent in 2021.

Manufacturing, construction, and services are expected to improve by 7.3 per cent, 9.1 per cent, and 5 per cent respectively.

For 2021, inflation is projected at 1.6 per cent, due to expectations of increased economic activity as COVID-19 restrictions are lifted with concomitant effects on commodity prices.

Further, the overall balance of payments is expected to register a lower surplus in 2021, amounting to US$59.9 million compared with US$60.6 million in 2020.

(G11)

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 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

New frontier crop

T

he coconut industry is one of the new money-spinners for the country, as highlighted by Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh during his 2021 budget presentation, when he highlighted that coconut is the new frontier crop.

It is therefore welcoming news for farmers of this crop that the Government will fund the establishment of four new coconut nurseries: at Wakenaam, Leguan, Canal No. 2 and No. 63 Village on the Corentyne, which would each produce between 1,500 and 3,000 coconut seedlings every three months. Additionally, Budget 2021 provides over $70M to support Hope Coconut Estate Ltd. Even in its neglected state by the previous APNU/AFC Government, coconut is the third major crop cultivated in Guyana, after rice and sugar cane. This industry can be one which could produce scores of by-products for which there is demand for export as well as local use. The coconut and its by-products are now in growing demand worldwide.

Coconut oil, which once used to be wrongly labelled as high-cholesterol, is now regarded as among the best cooking oils, many consumers preferring it to olive and canola oils.

Most of the traditional coconut-growing families who had large estates have gone out of business. In the Pomeroon area, for instance, there are only a few producers left. As a matter of fact, one of the largest producers in Laluni, Haresh Tewari, earlier this year reminded that the industry can provide employment for the residents of the community. This particular farmer has plans to cultivate one million coconut trees.

The economic advantages of the industry should be widely disseminated, as the numerous profitable byproducts which could easily be produced should be made known to the public, as well as the available markets should also be made known to producers.

It could be recalled that a coconut expert from India, Dr Shivarama Reddy, had come to Guyana some years ago to work with NARI and local farmers to examine ways in which the coconut industry could be revitalised, and to look at possible markets for the product. Also, a position paper

by NARI had outlined three main areas of intervention to aid in the coconut industry: increasing the productivity and production potential of the sector; assessing the state of Guyana’s coconut oil industry and its future, and considering possible support mechanisms; and exploring other coconutderived products in terms of their value-added and export potential. Nonetheless, over the years, the industry seemed to have contracted. Coconut oil, to a great extent, has been largely replaced by foreign imports. Dried coconuts are still exported, but in much less quantities than formerly.

Today, a great part of coconut production is used to provide coconut water. One local producer exports the commodity to Trinidad for canning. The cans carry no reference to the Guyanese origin of the contents. An infrastructure of international packaging standards already exists in Guyana.

There is, for instance, the Beharry Group, which has put on the local and export markets a number of products with world class packaging.

The coconut industry could become highly profitable within the next three or four years. This can be achieved if suitable lands are leased to prospective farmers, intensive agricultural extension services are provided, as well as soft loans and marketing exploration. The Agriculture Ministry and the Lands and Surveys Commission, with the help of experts, should be able to locate good coconut-growing lands and advertise for suitable takers. Unlike in the past, when there were talks of the massive production, giving optimistic hopes propagated to the public but never materialised, it is time that serious effort be expended in reviving the industry. This industry has very huge potential for expansion and development, especially as it relates to processing and value-added products. Guyana could tremendously increase its earnings from exports in this industry.

Divers perform an underwater dragon and mermaid show during Chinese Lunar New Year celebrations at an aquarium in Jakarta, Indonesia (Reuters)

APNU/AFC must face reality that they are in Opposition

Dear Editor, For months, former President David Granger refused to acknowledge the results of the 2nd March Elections, while claiming that: “As President of Guyana and Leader of the Government, it is my policy that any declaration which comes from the Chairman of GECOM would be recognised by the Coalition Government”.

While Granger continued to repeat that pledge, he allowed his party agents, his party lawyers, and his Attorney-General to move to every Court to prevent the result of the recount from establishing that the PPP had won the elections.

Granger continuously repeated the refrain that his Government and party would abide by the ruling of the Courts, but all the while that Granger pledged innocence of his party’s blatant, ugly, and unforgivable attempts to rig the Statements of Poll for District 4 - by Clairmont Mingo, aided and abetted by Keith Lowenfield and Roxanne Myers - he had his chief lieutenant, Joseph Harmon, leading the charge to keep his Government illegally in office.

It was Harmon who declared on Bobby Vieira’s 104.1Lite FM that “those persons who are calling for Mr. Granger to concede, that is not going to happen”.

At the time, in a television commentary I broadcasted on TVG Channel 28, I said, “These are men

and women who are conniving, ruthless, ignorant and criminal in their intent. They do not care for the consequences of their action. They do not care for the rule of law. They do not care what the Courts rule or do not rule. These are men and women who have decided to remain in power and damn the consequences. They care not what damage they do to Guyana.

They do not care, and will not recognise, that the majority of Guyanese have voted them out of power.”

Granger capitulated under the enormous pressure of international condemnation, overwhelming public opinion, and the reality that Guyana’s military and Police forces were fundamentally committed to democracy, and would not back a coup.

Our former President has since disappeared from sight, but little else has changed. He has left his party in the charge of those who “do not care for the rule of law, and do not care what damage they do to Guyana”. He has appointed Joseph Harmon as Leader of the Opposition, to continue the fiction that his party had somehow won the election, and that, according to Harmon, the PPP “are sitting in Government on the basis of a flawed and a fraud system”.

Harmon was reacting to the insistence of Vice President Jagdeo that those persons chiefly responsible for manipulating the District 4 Statements of Poll - Lowenfield, Mingo and Myers - must be re-

moved from the Elections Commission before any further elections are held; a position embraced by every Guyanese who is determined to ensure that our elections’ results are protected from any further fraud and manipulation.

David Granger’s disappearance from sight, and his hiding from taking political responsibility for the leadership, attitude and behaviour of his party in Opposition by assigning it to Harmon’s divisive and destructive leadership, will do irreparable harm to the future of our country.

To make matters worse, Granger has left the Joneses, the Duncans, the Pattersons, those who had manifested a total absence of integrity and honesty in office, to be his chief spokespersons in Opposition.

In complete contrast, President Irfaan Ali, from the day he assumed office, has committed himself, his party, and his Government to the language and intent of “inclusion”. He pledged, in his first address to the National Assembly, that his Government would serve the people of Guyana, “every one of them, regardless of race or creed”.

He had this to say about the expectations of all Guyanese: “They want us to be partners in serving the country, not adversaries in pulling it apart. That is not to say that they did not expect us to disagree or that they did not anticipate that we would differ. But they do not expect us to differ at their expense, or to disagree to their detri-

ment…To do so calls for political maturity that puts, at all times, the national interest and the people’s welfare above all else”.

It is impossible to disagree with those sentiments coming from the leader of our country.

It is reasonable, however, to expect the political Opposition to challenge the sincerity of those sentiments, but not in the manner pursued by Harmon.

The APNU and the AFC - between them, in all reality, the People’s National Congress, of whom David Granger remains the leader - command a significant portion of the country’s vote. They can use it for constructive or destructive purposes. They can use it in the National Assembly to voice their views, to influence the laws we pass, and to hold the Government accountable for their actions.

That is what democracy is all about.

That, however, is not what Mr Harmon and the belligerent group around him represent, nor where they are coming from.

Harmon has continuously embraced the language of confrontation. He has no intention of reaching across the aisle. He is persistent in calling the Government illegal, but in the same breath, demands that the President recognise him as Leader of the Opposition. He prefers to keep his elected members in the street, rather than in the Parliament, where they properly belong.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021

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Lessons for Guyana over heinous murder in Trinidad

Dear Editor, There are massive protests and vigils being held all over Trinidad in reaction to the senseless murder of an Indian young lady, Andrea Bharrat, who has become a household name, now adopted as everyone’s daughter or sister. There are lessons for Guyana in the people’s response to violent crimes, and what Government should do.

That beautiful young lady, described as an angel, had just begun to live her life. As aptly stated on social media, “She is a pretty flower that did not get to bloom because of the dastard act of evil minds”.

Andrea’s cultural passion and “Trininess” were admirable. She had made a fantastic video of a typical Hindu wedding, and it has gone viral.

That type of murder can happen anywhere. It is an unspeakable crime. Haven’t we experienced similar crimes in Guyana? So, there are lessons for Guyana. A

young girl, merely 23, returning home from her job at a magistrate’s court, was kidnapped, abused, raped, spoiled, killed, and dumped overboard down a ravine of labyrinth depth. A helicopter was required in order to descend and recover her broken body. What happened to this young lady is indescribable. It was a heinous, most brutal and inhumane act.

There is much media publicity over the murder, and there are spontaneous public protests. Some sections of the media were insensitive and heartless.

Instead of focusing on the murder, they were focusing on “belly” and corporate income. For example, one talk show host in Trinidad opted to share a recipe on “how to make dhal”, rather than provide comfort to people who were protesting and in distress over the rape and murder. This prompted a social commentator to pen: “Why have we grown so cold blooded

Is the Opposition confused?

Dear Editor, By the reasoning of the Opposition, the legal Opposition has a legal right to Parliament, but the legal Government has no legal right to it.

Yet its members were seen climbing fences, having to be restrained by law enforcement in try-

ing to gain entry to the hallowed chamber, from which they chose to be absent.

Are they confused?

Either they want to be present or they do not; it cannot be both.

Sincerely, Shamshun Mohamed

that a crime of this magnitude is not given the prominence it deserves in the media? It seems that when it’s our child or sibling or parents, that only then are we moved to express our feelings. If Andrea was a celebrity or the daughter of a prominent politician, the headlines would have been splurging nonstop with the story. There is one justice for the well-to-do and the connected and another for the poor.”

What happened to Andrea can happen to another person in an environment where crime has skyrocketed. Thus, the public

in TT or in Guyana should not take illusory comfort in their home or office, and wish away this problem.

A critic wisely advises: “We must recast our focus on the gravity of such crime, just imagining if Andrea was one of our own”.

Those responsible for the crime, including those who conspired in the kidnapping and who disclosed information about the girl’s whereabouts, must face the law. The death penalty is warranted for criminals who display the mentality of a beast.

People may take the law in their own hands.

APNU/AFC must face up to reality...

FROM PAGE 4

Harmon and the group around him are wedded to the falsehood that APNU/ AFC won the elections, and they are determined to mislead their party supporters to this end; but they are unwilling - because they are unable to provide any evidence, including the disclosure of the Statements of Poll in their own possession - to prove their contention.

The President has, more than once, “called for political maturity that puts, at all times, the national interest and the people’s welfare above all else”, and has resorted to the words of Martin Carter, that “all are involved; all are consumed”.

It is time for Granger to come out of hiding. It is now time for Granger to get rid of Harmon. It is time

for Granger to let his party know - a party which I once supported, though in different times and in different circumstances - that it is time to come out of the shadows and face the reality that it is the legitimate majority Opposition party, that it is possible and prudent to reach across the aisle and put to the test President Ali’s commitment to inclusion, and hold him to the promise of giving meaning to his call for “one Guyana”. It is time for that party to work with the Government to reform and reorganise the Elections Commission, and revisit the Constitution; and, yes, when the time comes, contest the elections again.

Yours sincerely, Kit Nascimento

One commentator asked, “What are our options? Should people take the law in their own hands to get justice?”

Countries like TT and Guyana should look at ways of curbing these abuses and assaults on women while they are using public transportation, including taxis. The death penalty is warranted for perpetrators of rape and/or murder.

Is the death penalty still in force? In the case of Guyana, Guyanese are calling for the restoration of the death penalty for dastardly crimes.

Contrary to what some may feel, capital punishment is a deterrence. As an illustration, in Guyana, the dictator Desmond Hoyte resumed hanging in 1987, and it resulted in a dramatic downturn in crime when a few hard-core murderers were hanged. Fear of be-

ing hanged sends jitters down the spines of those on Death Row. One can’t imitate a policy or objection to the death penalty of a developed country. Hanging would send the right signal to would-be criminals. It would help to reduce crime.

It is the duty of a state to protect its citizens. It must respond promptly against those who engage in acts of violence. The Governments of TT and Guyana should consider compensating victims of serious crime. There are precedents. In the US, for example, civil actions are brought against criminals for wrongful deaths, or crimes that affect people.

Monetary relief won’t solve crime. But, at a minimum, it would address the pain and anguish of family members of victims.

Yours truly, Dr Vishnu Bisram

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021

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3000 persons to be employed

by Wales gas-to-shore project U

pon its completion in 2023, Government’s transformative gasto-shore project will see over 3000 persons gaining employment.

The PPP/C Government has identified the former Wales Sugar Estate on the West Bank of Demerara as the site for the landing of the pipelines that will bring to shore, gas for the power generation plant.

According to Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh during the presentation of Budget 2021 on Friday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), the Wales Development Authority (WDA) will not only distinguish itself as the industrial centre of the Caribbean but will also serve immediately as an employment generating facility.

“When in operation, the Wales Development Authority stands to employ well over 3000 persons on a full-time basis in fields ranging from manual, technical, professional, adminis-

The former Wales Sugar Estate

trative among others across the various enterprises to be located under the WDA. This, of course, is not taking into consideration the myriad range of indirect employment that will be generated, which very easily will account for a figure well beyond that established for direct employment,” he contended.

The Finance Minister pointed out that for so long, Guyana has been forced to import fossil fuels to gen-

erate energy, resulting in manufacturers and potential investors belabouring the cost of energy as a constraint to investment or expansion.

However, he noted that with the planned gas-toshore pipeline slated to come on stream in two years’ time, the country will finally be able to expand manufacturing opportunities, have a low-cost source of energy, access to labour from surrounding housing develop-

ments and a ready road network through the WDA. Dr Singh further posited that Government will commence work this year on the WDA project by drafting and passing the requisite legislation to create the authority.

“As we speak, consulting services are being procured to conduct the geotechnical, geophysical, environmental impact, and Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) studies to determine the location

where the gas line would land as well as the sites for the drying facilities, co-generation plant, and essential petrochemical industries.

The construction of the co-generation plant and laying of the pipeline will begin next year and finish during 2023.”

He added, “When the power plant comes on stream, the electricity cost will be a fraction of the current rate paid by consumers.

The reduction in electricity cost is expected to attract large industrial, agro-processing, and manufacturing firms.”

In order to make the WDA more attractive as an industrial zone, the Finance Minister outlined that special incentives will also be provided to motivate investors to set up operations in Wales. This strategic policy initiative by this Government, providing tangible support to these nonoil sectors, will ultimately provide the enabling environment for the country’s di-

versification efforts to take root and become sustainable.

In this regard, a sustainable and competitive agriculture and manufacturing sector that will be supported through the WDA will provide the groundwork for overall sustainable robust economic performance.

President Dr Irfaan Ali has already said that the gas-to-shore project will transform Guyana’s economic landscape, thus bringing tremendous development for all.

He had noted that the landing of the gas-to-shore pipeline in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) would lead to “big industrial development taking place there that is linked to not only power generation and a power plant.”

The Head of State went on to add that the investment on the Demerara River’s shoreside would also create massive opportunities and a trickle-down effect. (G8)

8 NEWS Taxi driver, businessman remanded for cocaine trafficking A SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

taxi driver and a businessman, who were allegedly nabbed with a quantity of cocaine, have been remanded to prison on a trafficking of narcotics charge.

Cordell Moore, a taxi driver of Lot 974 Glasgow Housing Scheme, New Amsterdam, Berbice, along with Ulric Jordon, 50, a businessman of Camp Street, Georgetown, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to answer to the charge of possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.

The duo appeared before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly. It is alleged that on February 10 between Waterloo and Commerce Streets, Georgetown, Moore was intercepted with 504 grams of cocaine. Jordon allegedly had in his possession a bag containing a digital scale with traces of cocaine at his Camp Street, Georgetown home.

Jordon was represented by Attorney-at-Law Adrian Thompson while Moore was represented by Attorney-at-Law Patrice Henry. Both men were remanded and the case will continue on March 5. On Wednesday, the duo was arrested by ranks of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU).

The first salvo…

W Remanded: Cordell Moore

Remanded: Ulric Jordan

Moore, 47, was intercepted at the Berbice Car Park in Georgetown where his car was searched and the suspected cocaine was found hidden in a panel of the trunk. Moore was the sole occupant of the vehicle at the time of the interception.

Meanwhile, Jordan was intercepted in front of his home with a bag containing a digital tabletop scale with traces of suspected cocaine on the instrument. Both suspects were arrested with a quantity of cash in their possession. (G15)

…against COVID-19 ell, while it mightn’t have been a shot heard across the world, the vaccination of the frontline health workers at the GPHC was certainly heard (and seen) across Guyana! This, of course, was courtesy of the 3000 vaccines generously sent to us by Barbados - from the shipment they’d received from India. While it might appear that Guyanese haven’t been taking this COVID-19 pandemic seriously, part of our nonchalance was merely the stoic indifference to threats we cultivated to survive the Burnhamite hell - the embers of which still smoulder!

But underneath that insouciant swagger, we worried.

Who wouldn’t, after reading the daily inexorable climb of the numbers representing fellow Guyanese who became infected and those who finally succumbed to the virus?

Worldwide infections are at 108,394,000 and deaths are at 2,380,000 and counting.

For whom does the (COVID-19) bell toll? It certainly seems to be tolling for all of us. But, finally, there is a glimmer of hope - those 1400 shots of the AstraZeneca vaccine that were given to our health workers who have to deal daily with the infected. What happened to the other shots, you ask, dear reader? Well, 200 were for the Caricom staff, and since there will have to be two shots per person for the desired immunity, that gives us the 1400 health workers treated.

So, we have some ways to go, don’t we? We’ve been promised 20% of total coverage from COVAX, the WHO-led consortium that’s leading the fight for some equity in vaccine distribution. This amounts to 104,000 shots of the AstraZeneca vaccine for 52,000 persons. But who knows when those will arrive? In the meantime, the rich countries are practising “vaccine nationalism”, with Canada, for instance, going to extremes in hoarding and pre-ordering FIVE TIMES THE DOSAGE REQUIRED FOR ITS ENTIRE POPULATION! Canada even had the chutzpah to line up for the COVAX allotment!!

The US and UK follow with securing respectively 4 and 3 times their required doses. Some poor countries won’t get vaccines till 2023. COVAX was supposed to provide an initial 3800 doses by March, and China was supposed to provide 20,000 doses of its SinoPharm vaccine. Also out there are Moderna, Pfizer and the Sputnik Russian version.

For some reason, India - which is leading the world in producing vaccines - is sharing its supplies with its neighbours and countries in Africa and the Caribbean, but hasn’t responded to the direct request from Guyana - as it did for Barbados and Dominica. We’ll be sharing the one million Caribbean doses, we guess.

All in all, what all of this means is that we will just have to buckle up and stand in line for the vaccination.

No use in us getting dispirited. That’ll just lower our autoimmune system and make us more susceptible to COVID-19 infection. …in energy freedom In his address to Parliament, President Ali predicted that Guyana is poised to become the Caribbean Energy Centre.

He was careful not to say “ATM machine”, as PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar once feared for Trinidad when they were oil producers! Guyana, under Burnham, once (notoriously) literally broke the (Caribbean) Bank after he plunged us into bankruptcy in the 1970s. And TT had to write off hundreds of millions in US dollars when Jagdeo and the PPP were forced to clean up their (PNC) inherited mess.

The point is that, yes, Guyana will have to look at the regional picture in its development thrust for the next decade and beyond. Especially Trinidad, which has so much experience in dealing with an oil economy and the greater financialisation that’ll come in the wake of the huge revenue flows.

But let’s not forget Suriname next door - they also have both oil and experience.

It’s clear that the Southern Caribbean will lead the way to prosperity! …against Executive Lawlessness Your Eyewitness agrees with that prolific letter writer who pointed out that the US is showing us the way to protect our democracy from Executive Lawlessness - just as it did on democracy itself.

Impeach them!!

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

NEWS

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GuySuCo to get $2B for critical capital works

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ontinuing with efforts to revitalise the ailing sugar industry, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government has injected $2 billion into the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) for capital works.

This was announced by senior Minister with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, during the presentation of the 2021 National Budget themed “A Path to Recovery, Economic Dynamism and Resilience.”

Minister Singh disclosed that $2 billion has been allocated for critical capital works at the sugar corporation.

“Given the importance of sugar in the domestic economy, and the manner in which this sector affects overall socio-economic conditions in rural Berbice and rural Demerara, we shall continue to work with all stakeholders, in particular the Private Sector, in ensuring that the viability of this industry is preserved,” the Finance Minister posited.

Only last year, in its emergency budget, the PPP/C Administration plugged some $7 billion to recapitalise the sugar industry.

Looking back at the sector’s performance last year, Dr Singh revealed that the sugar-growing sector is estimated to have contracted by 3.7 per cent, with production falling to a low of 88,868 tonnes. This, he noted, was primarily due to a shortfall of more than 17,000 tonnes in the second crop which resulted from the protracted lack of capital investment in factories, causing downtime and reducing the volume of sugar extracted from canes.

Additionally, high rainfall in November and December resulted in the flooding of some fields and restricted access to canes.

The Finance Minister pointed out that the downsizing of the sugar industry via the closure of four estates – Wales, Skeldon, Rose Hall and East Demerara (Enmore) – by the APNU/ AFC coalition caused a rippling effect throughout Guyana’s coast, spreading shock, dismay, disbelief and a state of hopelessness. He noted that in addition to the 7000 workers who were placed on the breadline, the closure also directly and indirectly affected small and

micro businesses, while small market vendors were decimated as businesses dried up, and entire communities were devastated.

Singh added that the three estates that were reluctantly kept open – Albion, Blairmont and Uitvlugt – were left to limp along with little to no capital investments during the APNU/AFC’s tenure.

“By the time we entered office, sugar production had plummeted to its lowest level ever and GuySuCo was in dire financial straits.

Notwithstanding the prophets of doom, this PPP/C Government stands ready, willing, and resolute to deliver on our policy and manifesto promises to the sugar workers and to all Guyanese,” the Finance Minister reassured.

To this end, the PPP/C Government has installed a new Board and management of GuySuCo that are charged with the responsibility to conduct a detailed diagnostic of the sugar industry, in order to reboot the industry to make it fit for the purpose for sugar and value-added opportunities including diversification into non-traditional areas.

In fact, Minister Singh posited that work is currently ongoing on developing a master plan, estate by estate, to guide the future of the industry. He added that GuySuCo would concentrate on redirecting its efforts towards an optimised product mix, a shift away from the current low-value bulk-sugar market. This would allow the corporation to quadruple its sales into the packaged sugar market both locally and internationally over the next five years.

Against this backdrop, the Blairmont Packaging Plant could be expanded by three new packaging machines and an expansion of the storage bond so that inventory can be available at all times to service the international market with the world-famous Demerara Gold packaged sugar. Further, the Enmore Packaging Plant could be expanded to five operational packaging lines.

Further, the Finance Minister highlighted that at the Albion, Blairmont and Uitvlugt Estates, more than 60 per cent of the access roads are in a deplor-

able state, and more than 50 per cent of the fleet of land preparation and tillage machines were allowed to deteriorate beyond repair.

Additionally, more than 40 per cent of the cane transport fleet, especially the punts, were left to deteriorate to the point of disuse.

“Targeted investments will be needed to correct the situation over the medium term. Investments in cane cultivation will ensure that ratoons that are currently over 10 years old will be replaced over a five-year period at the rate of 20 per cent per annum, helping to revert to the standard procedure of replanting every five years,” he contended.

Regarding the closed estates, assessments on the damages and the cost to rehabilitate are ongoing in order to make the estates profitable cost centres, including but not limited to introducing public-private

Uitvlugt Sugar Estate

partnerships, agro-industrial and agro-energy opportunities, and pursuing product diversification, and retraining where necessary.

Nevertheless, Minister Singh noted that restructuring the sugar corporation, alongside the recapitalisation of sugar estates, will see improved production and productivity, not

only in 2021 but over the medium-term.

In fact, he disclosed that the sugar industry is projected to grow by 9.6 per cent this year with the world market prices for sugar projected to increase by 2.3 per cent.

Earlier this week, GuySuCo’s Chief Executive Officer, Sasenarine Singh,

told Guyana Times that GuySuCo has to continue its efforts to fix the factories, conduct land preparation, and revamp the cane transport system in 2021.

Added to this is the work that has to go into GuySuCo’s land preparation and into the timely transport of sugar cane from the fields to the factories. (G8)

10 NEWS

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

2 more deaths raise COVID-19 death toll to 186 …46 new cases in 24h

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he Health Ministry has informed that another two persons have succumbed to the COVID-19 virus, as Guyana continues to battle the pandemic. This raises the death toll to 186.

The latest deaths are two males – an 84-year-old and 59-year-old from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica – who died on Thursday. They were both receiving care in the designated coronavirus facilities.

On Wednesday, there were also two deaths. They were males, an 83-yearold from Region Four and a 90-year-old from Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice).

Previously on Tuesday, an 82-year-old woman from

Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) also died from the virus. She had succumbed at her home but a test was done post-humously after the body arrived at a medical facility. It was positive for the coronavirus.

For the week, six persons have died from the virus.

For the month of February, the deaths stand at nine.

The daily dashboard showed that 46 positives were detected in 24 hours, raising the total confirmed cases to 8181. From this number, 4253 are males and 3928 are females.

There are still seven persons in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), with 41 persons in institutional isolation, 666 in home isolation and

25 in institutional quarantine. A total of 7281 persons have recovered from the virus.

Regionally, two new cases were detected in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), three in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), 35 in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), one in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), three in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), one in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and two in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

Constant figures remain for Regions One (BarimaWaini), Five (MahaicaBerbice) and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), which are at 1016, 221 and

412 respectively.

T h u r s d a y marked a historic accomplishment in fighting the coronavirus pandemic, when the first vaccine was administered. Senior health officials would have taken their shots as the vaccination programme takes shape.

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony had expressed great satisfaction in the way health workers responded to the COVID-19 vaccine. He said senior doctors and officials came forward to get their jabs, which was a positive indication for the Ministry. This is just the start as several tranches of vaccines are expected to make it to Guyana this month and in the first week of March.

The Public Health Ministry continues to urge all Guyanese to observe the curfew and protocols of the COVID-19 Emergency Measures which are in effect until February 28,

2021. This order emphasises, among other things, the need for correct and consistent use of a face mask when leaving 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.

Persons displaying any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19, or in need of any additional information are asked to contact the COVID-19 Hotline on 2311166, 226-7480 or 624-6674 immediately or visit www. health.gov.gy (G12)

NEWS

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021|| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Winston Brassington wins $10M defamation lawsuit against Kaieteur News F ormer Chairman of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), Winston Brassington has been awarded $10 million in damages by the High Court in a defamation lawsuit he filed against Kaieteur News.

The judgement was handed down on Friday by Justice Navindra Singh at the High Court in Demerara.

Back in 2014, Brassington, who now heads the Gas-to-Shore Taskforce, filed a claim for the tort of defamation against Kaieteur News and its then Editor, Adam Harris, as a result of publications made in the daily newspaper about him. In a Statement of Defence filed that said year, Kaieteur News, through its lawyer, Nigel Hughes, denied that the publications concerned Brassington.

It was for the court, therefore, to determine if the words were defamatory and whether Kaieteur News’ defence of justification and/ or fair comment can prevail. In examining the statement published by Kaieteur News, Justice Singh held that it clearly attacked Brassington’s character by labelling him as a dishonest person that engages in fraudulent or criminal practices, without setting out, factually, any conduct by him to justify such a statement.

According to Justice Singh, on the evidence,

and his family members, including his school-aged children were confronted and humiliated with the publication.” In fact, the Judge said that Kaieteur News’ publisher, Glen Lall, acknowledged that Brassington sent a letter requesting a retraction.

However, the Judge noted that Kaieteur News refused to retract the libellous statements or apologise or express regret over the publications. In the circum-

Kaieteur News Publisher Glen Lall

the word/s used to describe Brassington could not possibly be considered to be justified. Against this backdrop, Justice Singh noted that the words published were defamatory against him and would lower his standing in society in the estimation of right-thinking members of society.

In assessing the appropriate quantum of damages to be awarded, Justice Singh considered that the libel attacked Brassington’s personal integrity and professional reputation since at the time of publication he was a public figure serving in an office that essentially handled matters of public concern. “This indeed makes the libel very grave,” Justice Singh underscored.

“The nature of the libel was bound to cause distress, hurt, and humiliation to [Brassington]. After the publication [Brassington]

Teen admits to attempting to extort $10M from exboyfriend for rape

Remanded: Princess Williams

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ineteen-year-old Princess Williams of Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD), who admitted to attempting to extort $10 million from her ex-boyfriend was remanded to prison.

The teen appeared before Magistrate Leron Daly at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts where she admitted that between

January 4 and January 7, 2021, with intent to extort money from Kenrick Thomas, she threatened to accuse him of attempting to rape her.

Magistrate Daly has ordered that a probation report be prepared before she hands down her sentence.

The matter has been adjourned to March 1.

It was reported that Williams and Thomas shared a relationship for four months. The woman last visited Thomas’ residence on January 4 where an argument ensued and the relationship ended.

Following the break-up, Williams sent a voice note to Thomas claiming that he raped her.

She further gave Thomas an ultimatum to either pay her $10 million or she would report the alleged rape to the Police.

Upon receipt of the threats, Thomas reported the matter to the Police and Williams was arrested. (G15)

stances, the Court awarded the sum of $10,000,000 as damages for defamation to Brassington against Kaieteur News and its then editor.

The Court further awarded interest on the damages at the rate of six per cent per annum from July 30, 2014, the date of publication of the defamatory statements, to February 12, 2021, the date of judgement, and four per cent per annum thereafter until the judgement is

fully paid. Brassington was also awarded $1 million in costs. Brassington was represented by Senior Counsel Timothy Jonas.

In five separate judgements handed down in November 2020, Justice Fidela Corbin-Lincoln ordered Kaieteur News to pay approximately $18 million in damages to Brassington for libel over statements published about him in the newspaper’s popular Dem Boys Seh Column.

Former Chairman of NICIL, Winston Brassington

12 NEWS

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Unauthorised food vendors National effort begins to eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis under GA-FDD’s radar …more than 90% of population is at risk …action to be taken against those flouting hygiene rules

Itinerant food vendors who have been identified by the GA-FDD

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he Government Analyst-Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) has given notice to the increase of unauthorised street food vendors within the regions and municipalities, in which action will be taken to ensure compliance with operating requirements.

In a statement on Friday, the body said the issue of makeshift food outlets was deliberated on at the level of the National Food Safety and Control Committee, since there has been an increase in such practices.

A decision was taken to commence public sensitisation and enforce action nationwide so that operators are in compliance with the basic requirements to keep their food items safe for consumption.

These conditions include adequate facilities to

keep food about 64 degrees Celsius and chilled items under eight degrees Celsius; access to potable running water, adequate garbage disposal facilities and possession of a valid food handlers identification card.

“The NFSCC believes that if four of the very basic requirements are satisfied, street vended food would be protected from the associated risks, customers would be less likely to be affected with foodborne illnesses and vendors would be able to continue their trade,” the statement positioned.

In 2009, the Pan American Health Organisation conducted a burden of illness study, where it was determined that diarrheal illnesses are very common in Guyana, with 7.7 per cent of the population being affected annually. At that time, the fig-

ures were much higher in other Caribbean countries and it was linked to makeshift food outlets, unavailability of potable water, inadequate waste disposal and unlicensed food vendors.

The Committee has agreed that action would be taken against street vendors who fail to comply with basic good hygiene requirements when plying their trade.

PAHO has concluded that “Foodborne illnesses are caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites or chemical substances entering the body through contaminated food or water. Foodborne diseases impede socioeconomic development by straining health care systems and harming national economies, tourism and trade.”

In September 2020, the GA-FDD acquired international accreditation of its Inspectorate Division. The International Standard Organisation (ISO) 17020 achievement was conferred by the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA). The accreditation scope included inspection, sampling and product destruction for food, drugs, cosmetics, and medical devices.

The Department at that time stated that the importation of substandard food, drugs, cosmetics and medical devices would be an occurrence of the past. It posited that document submissions and all requirements must now be met, and there would be no compromising of its system, which would have a negative impact on its accreditation.

A

mass drug administration will commence on Monday for the final lap of the Lymphatic Filariasis Elimination Campaign, in which Guyana will seek to completely eradicate the disease.

During the launching ceremony on Friday, it was communicated that the rollout will span several weeks, starting with the populous Regions Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) and Four (DemeraraMahaica). Guyana remains one of four countries in the Americas which is yet to eliminate filaria but will achieve this feat if the public takes their pills.

The World Health Organisation data shows that some 900 million people in 49 different countries are at risk of contracting filaria. As such, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony said this requires a national effort to completely eliminate filaria, as he called for political unity in realising this objective. Faith-based organisations, municipalities, town councils, local organs and Toshaos have also been engaged on the campaign’s aim.

“More than 90 per cent of our population is at risk of this disease…Once we complete this exercise, then henceforth, nobody in Guyana should ever have to deal with filaria again.

If we are able to accomplish this as a people, then that is going to be a wonderful achievement for all of us.”

The Minister added, “We are reaching out to all the political parties…This exercise is one where all of us would have to come together as one people to fight

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony taking the filaria pills at the launching of the national effort

this disease and I am extremely happy that we can have political unity so that we can demonstrate to our public that there is no politics involved here. We’re all together in fighting and eliminating filaria from Guyana.”

For the campaign, training has been completed for 1400 pill distributors, 170 field officers, 20 regional coordinators and eight national supervisors spanning 138 health facilities across the country. For those persons who have already contracted filaria, he said they are working on treatment to prevent them from developing a disability.

It is recommended by the World Health Organisation to roll out a mass administration of medicines in countries seeking to eliminate filariasis completely.

Guyana would have completed the first round of pills and now the last round will be administered to citizens. Once the campaign starts in February, it will end by May. Guyanese are given

three tablets; Ivermectin, Diethylcarbamazine (DEC) and Albendazole. The combination of pills is referred to as the IDA. The number of tablets varies per age, and they are not to be given to pregnant women and children below the age of two years old.

According to information from the World Health Organisation (WHO), the disease is caused by three species of thread-like nematode worms, known as filariae – Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi and Brugia timori. Male worms range from three to four centimetres in length, and female worms eight to 10 centimetres.

The worms target the lymphatic system, which is an essential component of the body’s immune system as they are essentially a network of nodes and vessels that maintain the delicate fluid balance between blood and body tissues. But when someone is infected, the male and female worms form “nests” together in this vital system. (G12)

NEWS

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

$53.5B to be injected into health sector this year …massive sums targeting COVID-19, HIV, mental wellbeing

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remarkable $53.5 billion has been budgeted to be injected into the country’s health sector, with significant sums set aside to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

In fact, a whopping $750 million has been allocated to support the rolling out of the COVID-19 vaccines from February and for the rest of the year in a phased approach.

These revelations were made by Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh on Friday as he unveiled the Dr Irfaan Ali-led Administration’s first full-term budget to the National Assembly.

In zoning in on the Government’s plans for the health sector, Dr Singh explained that to begin expanding diagnostic and speciality capacities across the country, the Government has provided $1.8 billion for the purchasing of critical medical equipment for the public health sector.

Of this amount, $99.8 million is budgeted for re-equipping the ophthalmology hospital in Port Mourant, the only one of its

kind in the country.

He said the Government also intends to expend $322 million for the acquisition of medical equipment, including ventilators and anaesthesia machines, which will serve to expand the diagnosis and treatment capacity at the National Referral Hospital.

Government is also budgeting an additional $35 million to strengthen the country’s emergency medical services capacity as the Administration aims to formulate a holistic plan to introduce an ambulance authority.

The Finance Minister also said much emphasis will be placed on treating non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

“In 2021, we have reoriented ourselves to increase our outreaches to take healthcare and screening to communities, anticipating to reach at least 30,000 individuals, as we endeavour to minimise the movement of people which could exacerbate COVID-19 transmission,” he said.

A provision of $35 mil-

ing, Government has made a provision of $900 million.

Dr Singh also announced that the Government will be dedicating more resources to address mental health issues, suicide prevention and care, and expand access to psychiatric and psychological services including the resuscitation of these initiatives in the hinterland areas.

Further, over $70 million was allocated to address the shortage of essential medication for psychiatric patients.

Additionally, the Finance

Minister announced the construction of an 18-bed mental health ward at the National Referral Hospital at a cost of $26 million.

Meanwhile, $2.8 billion has been budgeted for the expansion and modernisation of health infrastructure.

Within this, the continued implementation of the $860 million SMART Hospital initiative will result in the operationalisation of the upgraded Leonora Hospital, and the commis-

sioning of the upgraded Diamond Diagnostic Centre and Mabaruma Hospital in 2021, while works will advance on the Lethem and Paramakatoi Hospitals.

Government will also endeavour to complete the construction of a polyclinic at Festival City and the remodelling of the Skeldon Hospital, at a combined cost of $88.3 million to now cater for surgical interventions including an operating room, recovery room, and an Intensive Care Unit (ICU), among others.

Other areas that will benefit from capital investments focused on providing surgical interventions are Aishalton and Kumaka District Hospitals, with over $100 million earmarked for these projects.

Moreover, Government has committed over $140 million toward the financing of maternal waiting homes and facilities at Moruca, Enmore, and Kato, as well as $100 million for the construction and retrofitting of the maternity ward and wing at the New Amsterdam Hospital. (G11)

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Anil Nandlall SC

Public Service Minister Sonia Parag

Education Minister Priya Manickchand

value of estates for which the Registrar may summarily appoint an administrator, from $1000 to $750,000. It also provides that in the absence of letters of administration, a bank manager may pay to a claimant, from a deceased person’s savings bank account, a sum not exceeding $750,000.

“So, Mr Speaker, in relation to estates that are $750,000 in value, the bill that we are proposing along with the amendments, dispenses with the need for a probate to be granted in the event of a deceased person leaving a will, or for letters of administration once there is no will.

Once the net value of the estate is $750,000, then you do not require letters of administration or probate,” he is quoted as saying.

Education Minister Priya Manickchand, also an attorney at law, in her contribution, said the amendment reduces the hassle to which beneficiaries of small estates are subjected.

“Because that involves not only the expense of a lawyer, it’s usually five per cent of a large estate and if it’s not a large estate, it starts at $150,000 to $300,000 depending on the lawyer. And, it’s not just the lawyer fees, there is an estate duty, there are valuations that have to be had, bank statements that have to be had and all of that cost money. That is not only burdensome financially, but the running around to get to the process is also extremely burdensome for a grieving family,” she said.

Meanwhile, Public Service Minister, Sonia Parag, who is also a lawyer, said the common thread in all of the bills presented by the PPP/C Administration is that it puts the interest of the people at the forefront. While the amendments to the Deceased Persons Estates’ Administration Act may seem minimal, she said, they would have a huge impact on a large section of the society.

The country’s premier public health institution, the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation

lion was also made for the establishment of a diabetic prevention and rehabilitation clinic at the Lusignan Health Centre, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

With regard to HIV, Dr Singh said Government will intensify its partnerships with civil society organisations to encourage expanded testing and continued care, to ensure that persons living with the virus are able to remain on their anti-retroviral treatment thereby curbing transmission. For related treatment and test-

Health infrastructure

$22.6B to be pumped National Assembly passes Deceased Estates’ Amendment Bill into agricultural sector Persons …updates archaic provisions

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n a bid to ensure Guyana is well poised to claim its long outstanding position as the food basket of the Caribbean, the Government intends to pump $22.6 billion into the local agriculture sector.

In outlining some ways in which the funds will be expended, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh revealed that six drying floors will be constructed at strategic rice-producing locations to provide much-needed support to rice farmers. He noted too that a soil laboratory will be established to facilitate efficient and economic production of paddy.

Additionally, he said five sprayers will be acquired to control paddy bugs on dams and fields efficiently; a motorised thresher will be purchased to aid in plant breeding experiments, and a laboratory will be constructed for experimental trials on value-added rice products.

Noting that research-based extension support will be intensified for fruit production to improve productivity and meet the growing demand of domestic fruit juice manufacturers, the Finance Minister said $1.2 billion is budgeted to support the operations of the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI).

New frontier crop

Highlighting that coconut is the new frontier crop, Dr Singh said the PPP/C Administration will fund the establishment of four new coconut nurseries at

Wakenaam, Leguan, Canal No 2 and No 63 Village in Corentyne which will each produce 1500 to 3000 coconut seedlings, every three months. Budget 2021 also provides over $70 million to support Hope Coconut Estate Ltd. The Finance Minister went on the point out that corn and soya bean also represent a major new frontier in the “other crops sector”.

As such, he said in 2021, Government will cultivate 100 acres of planting material to support the production of corn and will make it available to farmers at affordable prices.

Some $832 million will be invested in agricultural infrastructure including agro-processing and packaging facilities.

These interventions will be done in Lesbeholden, Parika, Sophia, St Ignatius, Aranaputa, Kara Kara and the Intermediate Savannahs. This will allow farmers to have access to affordable state-of-the-art processing and packaging at reduced operational costs.

In addition, two freezer trucks and two 40-foot refrigerated containers will be procured at a cost of $60 million for the New Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC). An additional $293 million is being provided to New GMC to support initiatives such as the one-stop Agri-Business Incubator, through which equipment and human resources will be made available to provide technical and marketing support to agro-proces-

sors.

Meanwhile, $806 million will be provided to the Guyana Livestock Development Authority in 2021. Of this amount, Government will invest in a modular abattoir at Garden of Eden which will serve to fill the existing local market gap for processed pork and pork products while creating more income-generating opportunities. Further, the construction of a modern abattoir at Onverwagt for beef and beef products will transform the cattle industry.

Regarding fisheries, the Finance Minister revealed that $293 million is budgeted to support the growth of this emerging industry.

Meanwhile, Dr Singh noted that in 2021, the PPP/C Administration is reaffirming its commitment to supporting the drainage and irrigation systems by investing $12 billion in critical interventions across the country.

These include the construction and rehabilitation of pump stations at Adventure, Black Bush Polder, Cottage and Montrose, supporting over 54,000 acres of coastal farmlands; procurement of two excavators and a pontoon to desilt channels in the Pomeroon River, facilitating improved access to farms; and development of water harvesting mechanisms to support farms in the South Central Rupununi, alleviating the significant losses incurred in the dry season.

(G11)

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he National Assembly on Thursday passed the Deceased Persons Estates’ Administration (Amendment) Bill 2020, which updates archaic provisions concerning estate values.

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Anil Nandlall, SC, presented the bill for a second reading before it was passed during the 18th Sitting of the National Assembly. Under the current Act, letters of administration are not required for small estates in certain circumstances where the value of the estate does not exceed $1000. Additionally, proceeds of small intestate estates can be accessed from banks, in the absence of a grant of letters of administration, where the value of the estate of the deceased does not exceed $250,000.

According to a Department of Public Information report, during his presentation, Nandlall explained that the new amendments increase the

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

More tourism businesses open Mechanic slapped with murder charge with conditional approval

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Pandama Retreat and Winery Resort, Madewini, Soesdyke-Linden Highway

he Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) has granted approval for four more businesses to reopen, which will contribute to the reopening of the sector during the pandemic.

Establishments that were granted conditional approval include Caiman House, Cara Lodge Hotel, Guyana Truly Wild and Pandama Retreat and Winery Resort. They can commence welcoming travellers and guests to their properties, in keeping with guidelines tied to the National COVID-19 measures and GTA’s recommended hygiene and sanitation protocols.

Other approved businesses include Rewa Eco-Lodge, Wanderlust Adventures, Baganara Island Resort, Hurakabra River Resort, Rock View Lodge, Waikin Ranch, Elite Kayaking & Nature Tours, Atta Rainforest Lodge, Iwokrama River Lodge, Sloth Island Nature Resort and Arrowpoint Nature Resort.

The Authority said these tourism drivers must ensure that all protocols are observed since failure to do so will result in actions to withdraw permission to operate.

“It is imperative that those businesses which have since received their conditional approvals be reminded to maintain the protocols as outlined by the Guyana Tourism Authority and the National COVID-19 measures. Failure to comply with these guidelines will result in the revocation of approval,” the GTA mandated.

Failure to adhere to these measures will result in the revocation of the conditional approval tied to the COVID-19 measures.

Domestic and international travellers are recommended to use only GTA approved tourism businesses to book and plan their tour activities. A list was uploaded on the agency’s Facebook page for potential visitors.

Director of the GTA, Carla James has expressed that, “The tourism business-

es are doing their part to keep travellers, their team and community safe. The resilience and camaraderie witnessed over the past few months to combat the ongoing effects of COVID-19 and reopen the sector in a safe way has been remarkable.

While it is not quite over, we are confident that as long as we continue along the path that we are on, the recovery of our sector will be strong.”

There is a two-step process that all tourism businesses are expected to follow

in order to receive their official approval for reopening.

It entails a submission of the business’s written Standard Operating Procedures to the GTA for a desk review and on-site inspection to verify the implementation of the SOPs and approval by the GTA. Guyana’s tourism industry has seen its worst year yet, with the COVID-19 pandemic causing a loss of thousands of jobs, billions in revenue for the economy and zero commercial flights for several months. However, the Authority has several plans in the pipeline to facilitate a rebound in 2021, as

businesses start to reopen.

Negative impacts to the sector would have included a 98 per cent decline in arrivals due to closure of airports, while 4600 employees were placed on the breadline – an average of 65 per cent of the total workforce. With businesses recording 42 per cent lower revenue between March and September when compared to 2019, the economy saw an overall loss of 38.2 billion from the sector.

(G12)

Dead: David Barclay

Remanded: Kester Lewis

manslaughter charge against Kester Lewis, the salesman accused of killing a Triumph, East Coast Demerara father of two, David Barclay, in a road accident, has been upgraded to murder. The new charge was recommended by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) following the findings of a post-mortem examination that was performed on Barclay.

On Thursday, Lewis was informed of the new charge when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. He was not required to plead to the indictable charge which stated that on December 29, 2020, at D’Urban Street, Lodge, Georgetown, he murdered 29-year-old Barclay.

Lewis, who was previously released on $300,000 bail on the manslaughter charge, was remanded to prison on the murder charge until the hearing and determination of a Preliminary Inquiry (PI).

Reports are that on

December 29, 2020, Barclay was driving along D’Urban Street, Georgetown, when his motor car encountered mechanical problems. As such, he contacted Lewis, who also works as a mechanic, for assistance. It is alleged that Lewis turned up at the location and fixed the problem, but Barclay was reportedly short of $700 to pay him.

This publication understands that the mechanic’s fee was $4000, but Barclay only had $3300. This led to an argument. During the argument, the mechanic reportedly jumped into his car, drove off and slammed into the man. After he was struck, Barclay was dragged several feet.

The mechanic then fled the scene, leaving the injured man on the roadway.

Persons in the area who witnessed the incident rushed to the aid of the young man. He was picked up and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he succumbed at the Accident and Emergency Unit while receiving medical attention.

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NEWS

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Woman fatally stabs abusive lover

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Berbice woman has confessed to stabbing her reputed husband twice to his chest on Friday morning in New Amsterdam, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).

Dead is Anthony Giddings called “Big Head” of Lot 14 Pitt Street, New Amsterdam.

Reports are the incident occurred at about 01:30h on Friday morning during an argument when the 45-yearold man threatened to stab his reputed wife.

Giddings and his 43-yearold reputed wife, who were both unemployed, had been together for the past four years. Police said that the woman walked into the Central Police Station and reported that she had stabbed Giddings.

Reports are that the woman had been complaining for years about Giddings’ abusive behaviour. He was arrested by Police several times in the past for hitting the 43-year-old woman.

During one of the assaults, one of the woman’s hands was broken.

The woman reported that on Friday morning, Giddings asked her for a lighter to light his cigarette but she told him

Dead: Anthony Giddings called “Big Head”

she did not have any. As such Giddings allegedly became annoyed and an argument ensued. Giddings then reportedly pulled out a knife from his waist and threatened to stab her. She told investigators that as they argued, he threatened to stab her several times, causing her to become fearful and run out of the house. Reports are that the man pursued her onto the street, which resulted in her grabbing the knife from him and dealing him two stabs to his left side chest. The woman then ran to Central Police Station

about half a mile away and reported her actions.

Meanwhile, Giddings was rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital where he died while receiving medical attention. Police have since recovered a knife from the scene, which is believed to be the murder weapon.

Speaking with this publication, the dead man’s father, Hubert Giddings, said he did not have much contact with his now dead son.

“I know he and the girl live there and they are always nagging and fighting, all on the road they always fighting. So, it is nothing strange. He don’t come at me; he can’t come at me because of his behaviour. Both of them always fighting all over the place. People said last night both of them were on the road, one with a knife and one with a piece of wood,” the senior Giddings explained.

When this publication visited the area neighbours, however, said that it was the man's reputed wife who was the abuser.

Giddings was previously convicted for possession of narcotics and other crimes.

In April 2020, the couple

Rape accused walks free

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icardo Maniram, 38, was on Friday acquitted by a 12-member jury on a rape charge. The man, also known as “Rocky” of Crown Dam, Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara, was on trial before Justice JoAnn Barlow at the High Court in Demerara.

The charge levelled

against him stated that during October 2014, he engaged in sexual penetration with a 16-year-old girl against her will. According to information, Maniram is known to the young girl.

On the day in question, he went to the girl’s home and forcefully had sex with her.

In June 2015, the girl’s teacher complained to her

parents that she was looking “fat.” As a result, the parents carried her for an ultrasound which confirmed that he was pregnant. Following the discovery, investigations were done and Maniram was arrested. He claimed that the teenage girl consented to them having a sexual relationship.

had lived in another house at Pitt Street, New Amsterdam, which was destroyed by fire.

Investigators later concluded that the fire was an act of arson. Giddings had accused

his partner of burning the house during an argument.

They subsequently moved into another vacant house, also situated at Pitt Street, New Amsterdam. The couple

has one child. However, the Child Protection Agency had placed the child into the custody of a close relative after birth.

Security guard dies after being struck down by cop

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female security guard attached to a popular security service in Georgetown died after she was struck down and killed by a Police officer along the Rupert Craig Highway, in the vicinity of the University of Guyana’s Access Road, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

Dead is 63-year-old Bridget Rodriquez of School Street, Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara.

Police said the woman was riding a motorcycle, proceeding east in the northern lane when she attempted to go into the southern lane at about 22:30h on Thursday.

It was at that time she collided with a motor car driven by a 20-year-old Police Constable stationed at Brickdam Police Station attached to the traffic department.

As a result of the impact of the collision, the woman was thrown onto the windscreen of the car and then onto the roadway.

This resulted in her receiving major injuries about her body. Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) were called and Rodriquez was pronounced dead.

The body was then taken to the Lyken Funeral Home mortuary awaiting a post-mortem.

Both the motorcycle and the policeman’s car were

The lifeless body of Bridget Rodriquez lying on the roadway

lodged to be examined by the licensing and certifying officer. A breathalyser test was conducted on the cop and no trace of alcohol was detected.

When Guyana Times visited the family of the dead woman on Friday, they were tightlipped about the accident. One of Rodrigues’ daughters told this publication that she is “confused over everything”, and cannot understand how her mother died on the spot.

On Saturday last, Shri Chandra Persaud, 73, of Lot

109 B Thomas Street, Kitty, Georgetown, was killed in an accident in the vicinity of the Russian Embassy on the Rupert Craig Highway.

Police said that based on reports, a motorcycle which was proceeding west along the highway collided with the pedestrian as he was attempting to cross the road.

Following the collision, both the rider and Persaud were picked up in an unconscious state and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital. Persaud died while receiving treatment. (G9)

16 NEWS

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Suriname-Guyana backtrack route tragedy

PME shows pensioner, 30-year-old died from drowning …search continues for 3rd missing person

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ost-mortem examinations have been conducted on the two bodies which washed up at the beach along the Corentyne foreshore on Tuesday.

G o v e r n m e n t Pathologist Dr Vevikakand Bridgemogand performed the autopsies on the bodies of 30-year-old Alvin Joseph of Suriname and 74-year-old Baboni Harihar of Number 2 Village, East Canje. Both died of asphyxia and drowning.

Meanwhile, family members and friends are sparing no efforts in their search for 48-year-old Sharida Hussein, who is feared to have drowned while she was returning home to Guyana

Missing: Sharida Hussein

from Suriname via a backtrack route on Monday evening.

The search continued on

Friday - day four since the incident - but did not yield any success.

Hussein is one of three persons who went missing after they had disembarked from the boat in waist-deep water on a sandbank.

Following hours of searching on both land and sea, family members and friends were unable to locate Hussein.

Hussein, called “Sherry”, of Pilot Street, New Amsterdam, contacted her 19-year-old son on Monday evening to inform him that she had been dropped off at Number 63 Beach where the water was waist-deep and it was dark.

Regional Commander

Jairam Ramlakhan on Thursday said two persons were arrested in neighbouring Suriname in relation to the mishap.

Meanwhile, information coming out of the Dutchspeaking country indicated that a third person has been arrested by authorities there.

Following the arrest of the boat captain and a sailor of the fishing boat which transported the trio from Visserij Centrum (Fishing Centre) in Zeedijk, Nickerie, Suriname, Dutch authorities arrested a taxi driver on Friday who was also a part of the operation.

Since the closure of the Corentyne River cross-

Dead: Alvin Joseph

Dead: Baboni Harihar

ing between Guyana and Suriname as a result of COVID-19 to reduce the spread of the virus, persons have been paying between US$100 and US$150 to be

illegally transported across the border.

Much of the transporting takes place during the dark hours. (G4)

4 remanded for robbery-under-arms Eccles man busted with ganja in boat

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our men were on Friday remanded to prison by Magistrate Leron Daly on a charge of robbery under arms. Orvin Grant, 27, a taxi driver of Melanie, Railway Embankment, East Coast Demerara (ECD); Ronlee Rampersaud, 31, a watchman of Sideline Dam, La Penitence, Georgetown; along with Russell Bowman,

38, of 8th Street Cummings Lodge, ECD, and Jermaine Hassan, 35, of Newton Kitty, Georgetown, both unemployed, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. It is alleged that on February 6 at Subryanville, Georgetown, being in the company of others and armed with a gun, Bowman, Hassan, Rampersaud, and Grant robbed Selina

Edwards of $200,000. The prosecution objected to bail, citing the fact that the virtual complainant was shot during the robbery and is still nursing her gunshot wound. Additionally, the Police prosecutor also informed the court that Rampersaud was previously charged for a matter of similar nature. The case will continue on March 5. (G15)

Body of bus driver recovered from Linden blue lake

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n Eccles, East Bank Demerara man was busted with 313.6 grams of compressed cannabis at Poppy Show Landing, Upper Mazaruni River, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni).

Reports are that at about 15:00h on Thursday the man was travelling in a boat when Police ranks on patrol conducted a search.

According to Police, seven persons were in the boat and during the search at the bow of the boat, a bulky parcel wrapped in a multi-coloured jersey was found. Upon opening the jersey, two parcels containing leaves, seeds, and stems of the cannabis were found.

Upon enquiry, it was revealed that the items belonged to the Eccles resident, who denied that the item belonged to him.

He was nevertheless tak-

en into custody pending charges.

Recently, a party of Police ranks conducted several raids at “Poppy Show” and Tamakay Landings, Upper Mazaruni River, during which a quantity of ganja was unearthed.

During that raid, a 26-year-old miner of Sideline Dam Golden Grove, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was

arrested after he was found with 540 grams of ganja in his possession.

Further searches were conducted at an apartment building where four parcels of compressed marijuana were found.

At the time of the raid, the person who was occupying the room was not at the location. Checks were made for him but proved futile. (G9)

Suspect in clothes vendor’s murder still on the run

The lake from which the man's body was recovered

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he body of 25-yearold Eusi Lindo was recovered from a blue lake at Richmond Hill, Mackenzie, Linden, a day after he went missing following an outing with friends.

The body of the minibus driver of Tenth Street, Cummings Lodge, was found at about 17:34h on Friday by a diver, who was contracted by the relatives to conduct a search. Police said the body of the deceased was examined and no marks of violence observed. His body was escorted to the Linden Hospital Complex and later transported to the pensioners’ funeral parlour. Police said a post-mortem examination is expected to be conducted soon.

Reports are that Lindo, along with his girlfriend and a busload of persons, travelled to the town to visit

Dead: Eusi Lindo

the “blue lakes” – a popular tourist attraction.

The friends reportedly ventured to the lake in the vicinity of Richmond Hill, Mackenzie, which stretches to the Kara Kara area.

The man and his girlfriend reportedly ven-

tured into one of the lakes until the water reached their shoulders. The missing man’s partner said she turned away for a moment and suddenly heard “splashing sounds”.

She explained that she saw her boyfriend splashing in the water and thought he was playing.

The woman further related that Lindo grabbed onto her, and they both went under the water. However, she managed to swim to shore, but her boyfriend never surfaced.

Regional Commander, Superintendent Hugh Winter said the Police visited the scene, but they were not equipped to dive into the lake to search for the man.

He noted, however, that the man’s friends were taken into custody for questioning. (G13)

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olice are still on the hunt for a man who has been wanted for more than a month for the killing of Paul Anthony Smith, a clothes vendor, who was shot dead during a row over a female on New Year’s Day at the East Coast of Demerara minibus park in Georgetown.

On Friday, Regional Commander Khail Pareshram told this newspaper that ranks are working assiduously to bring finality to the murder.

He confirmed that the wanted bulletin that was issued for the suspect remains in effect as their search continues.

Wanted is Shawn Jones, 54, of Lot 245 East La Penitence, Georgetown, who allegedly shot and killed Smith, who was heading to his parked car carrying a cutlass in his hands.

Soon after, the suspect, who is also a clothes ven-

Dead: Paul Anthony Smith, aka “Blacka”

dor, whipped out a gun and discharged a round, hitting Smith.

As a result, Smith reportedly fell onto the front passenger seat of his car but he was picked up by public-spirited citizens who rushed him to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Wanted: Shawn Jones

Shortly after the shooting, the suspect’s 21-yearold son was arrested, but after investigators received new information, their focus had shifted to the man’s 54-year-old father.

Police confirmed that several checks were made for Jones at his residence but all proved futile. Investigations continue.

NEWS

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Agri Minister pushes for public-private partnership at Parika Packaging Facility portunities for farmers and businesspersons.

“Equipment which can be taken advantage of to do value-added production; that is a very lucrative business. I don’t know why it failed, but I am here and I

want to assure members of the public that we will ensure that this facility is utilised,” he added.

Operations are expected to restart before the end of the first quarter of this year.

Meanwhile, the corpora-

tion’s general manager said the entity would be retrofitting the factory based on the needs of the community, with focus placed on providing avenues for women to earn.

She said the manufactur-

ing of plantain chips started in February 2020 and was halted in August due to an error in the manufacturing process. However, she anticipates that the region will earn more revenues through public-private partnerships.

Banks DIH donates furniture to GPF

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Inside the Parika Packaging Facility

griculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has said operations at the Parika Packaging Facility would soon be restarting and the Government is inviting public-private partnerships to drive economic development in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara).

The facility was established by the PPP/C Administration during their last tenure in office. Mustapha said while he cannot recall its effective functioning during the APNU/AFC coalition Administration, an inspection of the facility earlier this week revealed an “underutilised” building.

According to a

Department of Public Information report, Mustapha has instructed General Manager of the New Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC), Teshawna Lall, “to get the ball rolling” and accelerate efforts to restart operations at the factory.

“There is a plantain chips factory at the side that is not utilised too. That started like a year ago and it hasn’t fulfilled its potential. I am looking to see if we can also outsource that for other people to utilise because there are some very good equipment there,” the Minister is quoted as saying. He noted that revamping operations at the facility would open economic op-

Co-Managing Director/Marketing Director George McDonald and Senior Superintendent Errol Watts share a photo with executives of the company, officers of the Force and members of the Station’s Welfare Committee

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anks DIH Limited has donated furniture to Regional Division Three of the Guyana Police Force (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara).

The company’s CoManaging Director/ Marketing Director, George

McDonald, made the presentation of chairs and tables to the Regional Commander, Senior Superintendent Errol Watts at the recently rehabilitated Christopher Griffith Recreational Hall located in the compound of the Leonora Station.

The hall serves as a training centre and is also utilised for recreational activities by members of the Division.

Meanwhile, Senior Superintendent Watts expressed his gratitude on behalf of the regional division

to the company for its contribution to the facility.

Also in attendance during the small ceremony at the Leonora Police Station were executives of the company, officers of the Force and members of the Station’s Welfare Committee. (G15)

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guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021

Regional

Economists say region should join forces Brazil says Amazon to buy 20 million COVID-19 vaccine doses COVID-19 variant 3 times more contagious T

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coronavirus variant identified in the Brazilian Amazon may be three times more contagious but early analysis suggests vaccines are still effective against it, the country’s Health Minister said on Thursday, without providing evidence for the claims.

Under pressure as the variant hammers the jungle city of Manaus with a devastating second wave of infections, Health Minister Eduardo Pazuello sought to reassure legislators that the surge of recent months was unexpected but coming under control.

He also told a Senate hearing that Brazil would vaccinate half its eligible population by June and the rest by the end of the year – an ambitious target as the country has barely guaranteed doses for half the population.

Brazil began immunisations with vaccines made by China’s Sinovac Biotech and Britain’s AstraZeneca about three weeks ago. Pazuello

Brazil began immunisation with vaccines made by China’s Sinovac Biotech and Britain’s AstraZeneca about three weeks ago [Bruno Kelly Reuters]

did not explain how their effectiveness against the Manaus variant was analysed.

Located deep in the Amazon rainforest, Manaus has been hit hard by a brutal second wave of cases that has stretched emergency services to breaking point.

The city’s hospitals ran out of oxygen in January, prompting the federal government to fly in supplies from across the country in an attempt to save people

from suffocating to death.

President Jair Bolsonaro has downplayed the deadly virus, even as he contracted the disease.

His administration has also been accused of acting slowly in acquiring vaccines, thus delaying its vaccination rollout.

The delays leave Brazil’s 210 million residents vulnerable to one of the worst coronavirus outbreaks on the planet. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

US to let in 25,000 asylum-seekers kept out by “Remain in Mexico”

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S President Joe Biden’s Administration on Friday announced plans for tens of thousands of asylum seekers waiting in Mexico for their next immigration court hearings to be allowed into the United States while their cases proceed.

The first of these 25,000 asylum seekers in Mexico with active cases will be allowed in the US on February 19, authorities said. Asylum seekers will be tested for COVID-19 before crossing the border.

The new programme will “scale up” to processing 300 people a day at border points, DHS Secretary

Alejandro Mayorkas told US broadcaster National Public Radio (NPR) on Friday.

The moves are part of a plan by the Administration of President Joe Biden to end the MPP, which forced more than 65,000 non-Mexican asylum seekers back across the border to wait for their US court hearings, although far fewer are believed to still be in Mexico.

The Trump Administration launched the controversial programme in 2019 as part of a wide-ranging crackdown on the ability to seek asylum in the US, depicted by Trump officials as rife with fraud and meritless claims.

“We have identified as approximately 25,000 individuals have active cases in the programme. And we are focused on providing them with access to our asylum system,” Mayorkas told NPR. When pressed on those who may have left Mexico, Mayorkas replied the US has “built a programme with international organisations, in cooperation with the government of Mexico, to actually build a virtual platform, so that individuals who are spread out geographically can register in the programme remotely”. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

wo regional economists have advised Caribbean countries to join forces to buy about 20 million COVID-19 vaccine doses for the entire region, or the pandemic will continue to devastate lives and economies for another two years.

Justin Ram, former director of economics at the Caribbean Development Bank, and Kiran Mathur Mohammed, co-founder of medl, an IDB lab-backed social impact health tech company, contended that this is the only way out of the current cycle of lockdowns and fear.

“We must escape from this constant, crippling cycle of lockdowns and fear, and get people back to work so we can start adjusting to our new post-COVID-19 lives.

The vaccine is the only way,” the economists wrote in a joint article.

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ty of extinguishing another life, of being used as human shields for criminal leaders and also being used as sexual slaves for the same commanders,” Duque said.

Between 2018 and 2020, 313 children and adolescents were forcibly recruited, according to the Government’s unit responsible for registering victims. Recruitment figures fell 53 per cent in 2020 compared with 2019, when there was a 30 per cent reduction from 2018.

Some children were recruited at as young as six, but 96 per cent were between 12 and 17 years old

when they were enlisted, official figures showed. In the last three years, 520 minors have left armed groups.

In some areas - including the Pacific city of Buenaventura, where recent gang violence has led to protests and demands for Government help - recruitment is made easier by poverty and lack of educational and work opportunities for youth.

Between 1985 and 2020 over 7400 Colombian minors were forcibly recruited, and around 16,000 children were killed in the conflict.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

nity in the next few months if Caricom pre-orders vaccines now from candidates whose WHO approval is expected in the next month or two. Large numbers of other countries are already taking this approach. We must do so or we will end up living like this until 2023.”

Ram and Mohammed suggested that regional countries, with a total annual GDP of about US$91.5 billion, could afford to do this. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

UN envoy urges US to relax Venezuela sanctions, drawing opposition rebuke

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UN envoy on Friday said US and EU sanctions on Venezuela were worsening a humanitarian crisis and recommended the United States relax the measures, an argument the country’s opposition labelled “regime propaganda.”

Following a 12-day visit, Alena Douhan, a UN special rapporteur focusing on sanctions, recommended in a preliminary report that the sanctions be lifted and the Venezuelan Government be granted access to funds frozen in the United States, United Kingdom and Portugal.

Washington in January 2019 sanctioned state

oil company Petroleos de Venezuela to try to oust President Nicolas Maduro, who has overseen an economic collapse in the once-prosperous OPEC nation and stands accused of corruption, rights violations and rigging his 2018 re-election.

Maduro’s Government blames the sanctions for Venezuela’s economic woes.

Prior to blacklisting PDVSA in 2019, Washington in 2015 implemented its first sanctions on top Venezuelan Government officials, and in 2017 issued some financial restrictions on PDVSA. Venezuela’s opposition and US officials point out that the country’s econom-

ic collapse began before the imposition of economic sanctions, and argue the sanctions are justified because Maduro’s Government would more likely use the resources for corrupt ends than to alleviate Venezuelans’ suffering.

“We regret the rapporteur’s imprecisions and the lack of mention of subjects like corruption, inefficiency, political violence and the use of hunger as a tool of social and political control,” Miguel Pizarro, opposition leader Juan Guaido’s envoy to the United Nations, wrote on Twitter.

“That is allowing oneself to be used for regime’s propaganda.” (Excerpt from Reuters)

Trinidad approves pepper spray for use as safety device

Colombia armed groups turn forcibly recruited children into “war machines” – Government llegal armed groups in Colombia are using forcibly recruited children and adolescents as “war machines” and sexual slaves amid ongoing internal conflict in the country, the Government said on Friday.

Violence in Colombia fell after a 2016 peace deal with its largest rebel group, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), but still-active guerrillas and crime gangs continue to target minors for recruitment.

Armed groups convert children into “war machines, leading them to the cruel-

Ram and Mohammed noted that while it is good that governments have accessed vaccines through the World Health Organisation (WHO)-led COVAX Facility, and individual countries have started bilateral discussions with vaccine providers already approved by the WHO, getting those doses will take far too long.

“Counterintuitively, it is actually easier to procure a larger order than a smaller one. We will only land vaccines and achieve herd immu-

Trinidad’s Attorney General, Faris Al-Rawi (Photo: CMC)

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he National Security Council (NSC) has approved the use of pepper spray as a “device for safety”, Attorney General Faris Al-Rawi announced Thursday night.

Speaking at a meeting of the ruling People’s National Movement (PNM), Al-Rawi said he had “drafted the law already”.

“Because of the direction of the Prime Minister, after the Minister of National Security did the prudent thing to bring policy approved by experts as to what should be done….

“It [pepper spray] is a double-edged sword because in the wrong hands it can be used against you, but we deserve a fighting chance,” he said.

The announcement came just days after Independent Senator Paul Richards filed a motion calling for the legalisation of pepper spray.

“If it saves one life, it is worth it. If it gives women hope that the authorities…

are hearing their cries on a daily basis, on a weekly basis, it is worth it. There are some who comment that it can get into the hands of criminals. Well, guess what? criminals already have guns and knives; they are raping and abusing women daily with impunity,” Richards said at the time.

Last week, Opposition Leader Kamla PersadBissessar also urged Government to take steps to legislate the use of pepper spray and tasers by women to protect themselves.

Calls for the green light to be given to using pepper spray intensified after the kidnapping and murder of court clerk Andrea Bharatt, who was laid to rest on Friday. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021

19

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS Oil edges higher on US stimulus hopes, tighter supplies

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il prices climbed more than 2 per cent on Friday, hitting the highest levels in more than a year on hopes a US stimulus will boost the economy and fuel demand, as supplies tighten due largely to output cuts by top producing countries.

Brent crude settled up US$1.29, or 2.1 per cent, at US$62.43 a barrel by 1:32 pm ET (1832 GMT) after rising to a session high of US$62.83, the highest since Jan 22, 2020. US oil ended the session up US$1.23, or 2.1 per cent, at US$59.47 after rising to a session high of US$59.82, the highest since Jan 9, 2020.

US crude notched a weekly gain of about 4.7 per cent while Brent rose 5.3 per cent on the week.

US President Joe Biden will meet with a bipartisan group of Mayors and Governors as he keeps pushing for approval of a US$1.9 trillion coronavirus relief plan to bolster economic growth and help millions of unemployed workers.

All three major US stock indexes were on course for their second straight weekly rise. A sharp drop in new COVID-19 cases and hospitalisations buoyed hopes life will eventually return to normal.

“Expected U.S. stimulus and ongoing vaccine progress is likely to maintain appetite for risky assets in offering support to the oil market,” said Jim Ritterbusch, president of Ritterbusch and Associates in Galena, Illinois.

Oil prices have risen over recent weeks due partly to production cuts from the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and allied producers in the group OPEC+.

“Oil prices held onto their recent gains this week, buoyed by further signs that crude stocks, particularly in the U.S., are falling,” Capital Economics analysts said in a note.

“We anticipate that inventories will fall further later this year as transport fuel demand revives in tandem with the easing of virus-related restrictions on travel.”

Still, OPEC this week ratcheted down expectations for global oil demand to recover in 2021, trimming its forecast by 110,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 5.79 million bpd.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) said oil supply was still outstripping global demand, though COVID-19 vaccines are expected to support a demand recovery.

“The (IEA) report paints a more pessimistic picture than market participants have presumably been envisaging given the current high prices,” Commerzbank said.

Demand data from the world’s biggest oil importer also paints a bleak picture.

The number of people who travelled in China ahead of Lunar New Year holidays plummeted by 70 per cent from two years ago as coronavirus restrictions curbed the world’s largest annual domestic migration, official data showed.

Rebalancing in the market could also face headwinds if US production rises, analysts and traders said.

US drillers this week added oil and natural gas rigs for a 12th week in a row, the longest streak of additions since June 2017, according to Baker Hughes data. (Excerpt from Reuters)

India fireworks factory explosions kill several, wound dozens

S

everal explosions at a private fireworks factory in southern India killed at least 11 workers and injured 34 others on Friday, Police have said.

Those injured in the blasts at the factory in Tamil Nadu state’s Virudhunagar district were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, Police officer Raj Narayanan said.

Ten fire engines were called to fight the fire, which destroyed four sheds in the factory.

The explosions occurred

while chemicals were being mixed by the workers to make fireworks, the Press Trust of India news agency said.

Fireworks manufacturing is a big business in India, where fireworks are often set off at festivals and weddings.

Many illegal factories produce fireworks that are cheaper to buy than legally made ones.

The area where the blast occurred is 520km (325 miles) south of Chennai, the state capital. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Russia says it would be ready to cut EU ties if hit with painful sanctions

R

ussia said on Friday it would be ready to sever ties with the European Union if the bloc hit it with painful economic sanctions, a statement that Germany described as disconcerting and incomprehensible.

Ties between Russia and the West, already at postCold War lows, have come under renewed pressure over the arrest and jailing of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny.

Three European diplomats told Reuters on Thursday the EU was likely to impose travel bans and asset freezes on allies of Russian President

Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov attends a news conference following a meeting with European Union's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell in Moscow, Russia February 5, 2021

Vladimir Putin, possibly as soon as this month.

Pressure for sanctions has grown since Moscow infuriated European countries last week by expelling German, Polish and Swedish diplomats without telling the EU’s foreign policy chief, who was in Moscow for a visit. Paris and Berlin say there must be a response.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov was asked in an interview published on the Ministry’s website on Friday whether Moscow was moving towards cutting ties with the EU. “We proceed from the fact that we’re ready (for

that). In the event that we again see sanctions imposed in some sectors that create risks for our economy, including in the most sensitive spheres,” Lavrov said.

“We don’t want to isolate ourselves from global life, but we have to be ready for that. If you want peace then prepare for war.”

The Kremlin offered a softer interpretation of Lavrov’s words later on Friday. It said Russia wanted to develop ties with EU rather than sever them, but that Moscow felt it had to be ready for Brussels to take steps to cut ties.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Kent coronavirus variant Myanmar coup: MPs urge set to “sweep world”, UN to investigate “gross says UK scientist human rights' violations”

T

he coronavirus variant first recorded in southeast England is likely to “sweep the world” and become the most dominant global strain, the head of the United Kingdom’s genetic surveillance programme said, as concerns mount over emerging mutations of the virus.

Since being detected in September in Kent, a county known as the “garden of England” and popular with commuters because of its proximity to London, the B.1.1.7 variant has spread to more than 50 countries.

The strain caused enough concern to force a new national lockdown in the UK and has led to global panic.

Experts have said it may be up to 70 per cent more infectious and about 30 per cent more lethal than other variants.

Having ripped through the UK and rippled outwards, the Kent variant was

A protester flashes the three-finger Hunger Games salute, which has become a symbol of defiance against authoritarianism

now on course to “sweep the world, in all probability”, Sharon Peacock, director of the COVID-19 Genomics UK Consortium, told the BBC on Thursday.

She also warned that although COVID-19 vaccines have proven effective so far against the B.1.1.7 variant and other virus strains present in the UK, further mutations may potentially undermine the shots.

“What’s concerning about this is that the 1.1.7 variant that we have had circulating for some weeks and months is beginning to mutate again and get new mutations which could affect the way that we handle the virus in terms of immunity and effectiveness of vaccines,” Peacock said.

“It’s concerning that the 1.1.7, which is more transmissible, which has swept the country, is now mutating to have this new mutation that could threaten vaccination.”

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

S

ome 300 Myanmar MPs have urged the United Nations to investigate "gross human rights violations" they allege have been carried out by the military.

In a letter to the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, MPs accused Myanmar's security forces of shooting anti-coup protesters.

Earlier, the UN human rights envoy to Myanmar said there was evidence that forces had used live bullets.

The council later called on Myanmar to allow access for human rights monitors.

Protests continued on Friday in defiance of a plea from Gen Min Aung Hlaing, who the army installed as the country's military leader on February 1.

He called for "unity" to prevent "disintegration" as the country marked the Union Day holiday.

Demonstrators are demanding the release of detained elected leaders, includ-

ing Aung San Suu Kyi. As protesters took to the streets again, there were some reports of rubber bullets being fired by Police.

There have also been reports of security forces visiting the homes of medical professionals and attempting to detain them for questioning over involvement in a civil disobedience movement.

Separately, Facebook said on Friday it would restrict content by Myanmar's military because a number of accounts had "continued to spread misinformation".

At an emergency meeting on Friday, Britain's ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, Julian Braithwaite, read out the contents of a letter on behalf of Myanmar's elected parliamentarians.

He urged the Human Rights Council to "support our efforts" in highlighting alleged abuses by carrying out an investigation. (Excerpt from BBC News)

France, Germany, UK warn Iran over uranium metal production

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he United Kingdom, France and Germany have condemned Iran’s decision to produce uranium metal, which they said was in breach of commitments made by Iran to the international community.

The United Nations’ nuclear watchdog said earlier this week that Iran had followed through on its plan to make uranium metal, after Tehran had alarmed Western na-

tions with its intent to produce the material with which the core of nuclear weapons can be made.

There have been hopes that the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers could be revived through new talks under the Administration of United States President Joe Biden, after his predecessor Donald Trump walked out of the deal in 2018.

The European trio, who are signatories to the deal formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), said in a joint statement on Friday that Iran’s move to produce uranium metal was a violation of the accord that endangers the chance to fully realise the deal, which aims to reduce international sanctions on Iran in exchange for limits to its nuclear pro-

gramme “We strongly urge Iran to halt these activities without delay and not to take any new non-compliant steps on its nuclear programme. In escalating its non-compliance, Iran is undermining the opportunity for renewed diplomacy to fully realise the objectives of the JCPOA,” said the European trio in a statement. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

20

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021

guyanatimesgy.com

ARCHIE

ARIES

(March 21April 19)

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

DILBERT

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

You'll come up with a great plan that can help you excel. Iron out all the details, then prepare to present what you have to offer. Don't exaggerate or allow others the opportunity to steal your thunder.

Let your imagination take charge, and you'll come up with a plan that will bring about positive change.

Greater involvement in a cause or project you believe in will lead to opportunity.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Don't get angry; get moving. Draw on the people and resources you trust, and you'll stay one step ahead of anyone trying to outmaneuver you.

Personal improvements will fetch compliments.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

SUDOKU

Bide your time. Do something creative or unusual that will keep you busy and your mind off something that upsets you. A moderate lifestyle will help you avoid a loss, argument or health problem.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

PEANUTS

CALVIN AND HOBBES

Get involved in something that interests you. The people you connect with will offer support and favors that lead to a dream position. Someone close to you will make an unexpected commitment.

Put on your running shoes, and get ready to take on the world. Fitness, personal growth and self-improvement projects will make you feel good and attract positive attention.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Keep your life simple, your plans doable and your relationships copacetic. Update your image, improve your space to suit your lifestyle and objectives, and make plans with someone who makes you happy.

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Take a step back to evaluate your position, lifestyle and relationships with others. A need to break free, follow your dreams and pursue something meaningful will push you to rethink your routine.

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Don't be fooled by someSAGITTARIUS one using emotional manip(Nov. 23ulation. Consider what you Dec. 21) want and how to move forward. New beginnings are favored. Don't let certain situations hold you hostage.

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

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

Dream, take action and improve your world. A creative domestic or lifestyle change will lead to an exciting proposal. Spend more time with people who share your interests.

Your hard work will pay off if you are diligent and finish what you start.

Trust and believe in yourself and your ability to get things done correctly.

Success will follow.

An emotional plea will help you get your way. Bring about the changes you want by doing the work yourself and taking credit for what you accomplish. Your efficiency will attract praise.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021

21

McGill Super Stars Sports Club defeat MMZ Sports Club by 63 runs — in WDCA season opener T

he last they had engaged in competitive cricket was in August 2020, because of the restrictions imposed on sport by the presence of COVID-19; but in a match played in full compliance with all COVID-19 regulations, the McGill Super Stars Sports Club opposed the mercurial Meten-Meer-Zorg Sports Club in a 30-over affair at the MMZ Ground, and prevailed by 63 runs.

Meten-Meer-Zorg SC won the toss and invited the visiting McGill Super Stars SC to take first strike. Although they started their innings in shaky fashion, the McGill side somehow found enough fortitude to shake off the rust and commit to giving a good account of themselves, thanks to former national youth captain Travis Persaud, who scored a shot-filled 36 runs off 20 balls, inclusive of 6 boundaries.

The vicissitudes of the game changed when McGill lost opener Asif Mohamed via run- out for 2 runs, leaving the score at 33-1 in the 7th over. Former national youth player Daniel Basdeo then joined Persaud, and the duo took the score to 49 before Persaud fell for 36, bowled by off-spinner Jermaine Maxwell in the 9th over.

Mc Gill then lost Diquan Murray for 5 in the 11th over, bowled by Maxwell when the score was at 57-3.

Basdeo and Troy Persaud tried to steady the ship, and produced a 14-run partnership, but Basdeo (17) was caught at long-on off the bowling of Maxwell in the 13th over, when the score was at 71-4; and Mc Gill then lost Abdul Razack (0) and Troy Persaud (18) in quick succession, respectively bowled by off-spinners Sheldon Alexander and Jermaine Maxwell, to leave the score at 97-6 at the end of 19 overs.

Ganesh Puran and Balram Airan then put together a

valuable 53-run partnership before Puran fell for a wellplayed 35 off 15 balls, inclusive of 4 fours and 2 sixes. He fell lbw to off-spinner Randy Lindore in the 24th over, when the score was at 150-7.

However, Balram Airan (37*) and Prahalad Singh (26*) took the score to 195-7 at the end of the innings without any further hiccups.

The MMZ SC commenced their innings in bullet-like manner, scoring 79 runs in the first 9 overs before losing their first wicket – that of Sheldon Alexander, who was bowled for 58 by off-spinner Abdul Razack.

Former national youth left-arm spinner Kheshram Seyhodan bowled Jermaine Maxwell (17) with the very next ball, to leave the score at 82-2. Malcolm Hubbard and Randy Lindore tried to negotiate Mc Gill’s strong spin attack, but Hubbard eventually fell for 14, caught off the bowling of former national youth left-arm seamer Daniel Basdeo when the score was at 102-3 in the 17th over.

MMZ then found themselves in deep trouble, losing 5 wickets for 14 runs. Dinesh George (0) was out lbw to speedster Diquan Murray; Adrian Johnson (2) was caught at cover off the bowling of Basdeo; Leroy Miggins was stumped off the bowling of Razack; Derrick Foo (4) was caught off the bowling of leg-spinner Ganesh Puran; and Randy Lindore (15) was stumped off the bowling of Puran.

Off-spinner Travis Persaud then removed Arjune Sookdeo for 9 in the 24th over, when the score was at 123-9; and Razack returned to remove Hemraj Persaud (0) with the very next over, to close MMZ's innings at 131 all out in 29.3 overs.

Jai Hind Jaguars Star Sports, RHTY&SC donate gear to cricket club launch national youth cricketer Nigel Deodat Mash Cup Masters N T20 tourney

T

he Jai Hind Jaguars cricket club of Albion, Corentyne, Berbice have launched their inaugural Mash Cup Masters T20 cricket tournament, to be played on February 23, 2021.

The tournament would involve four Masters’ teams: hosts Jai Hind Jaguars, West Berbice Masters, West Demerara Masters, and the Strathavon Masters of Mahaica, ECD competing for a first prize of $100,000 for the tournament winners, or the runners-up prize of $25,000. The winning team would also receive a trophy, as would the runners-up team and the man-of-the-match in the final game. Proceeds garnered from the event would go towards development of the Albion venue.

Government recently donated floodlights for the ground and funds to assist in construction of the fences.

At a simple ceremony held recently, trophies were donated for the event by the Trophy Stall’s Port Mourant branch. Handing over the trophies on behalf of the sponsors, Branch Manager Chitra Bedessie said the Trophy Stall is proud to be part of such an event, and would continue to support the Jai Hind Jaguars cricket club in their future endeavours.

Rajin Moonsammy, at right, is receiving the trophies from Chitra Bedessie as former national cricketer Michael Chinsammy looks on

“Trophy Stall plays an important part in the development of sports in Guyana”, she added.

In response, Rajin Moonsammy, captain of the Jai Hind Jaguars, thanked the Trophy Stall for coming on board without hesitation, and disclosed an intention to make the tournament an annual one.

He also mentioned that any future staging of the tourney would be well organised, and mileage would be given to all sponsors.

ational youth cricketer Nigel Deodat last Thursday received $100,000 worth of assistance in cricket gear through a collaborative effort between the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, MS, and businessman Sheik Mohamed of Star Sports.

The promising all-rounder, currently representing Berbice in the Guyana Cricket Board’s (GCB’s) Under-19 Inter-County tournament, received a cricket bat worth $64,000, a pair of batting gloves, batting pads, and a gear bag when he visited the Star Sports Store at Enmore, ECD to receive the assistance.

As President of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB), Foster, who is spearheading a Gears for Youth Cricketers programme in the Ancient County, met with Deodat during a meeting of under-19 players, and committed to assisting the youth to fulfill his potential. This player, who represents the Blairmont Cricket Club, lost his father 15 years ago, and credits his mother for his successes over the years.

Foster contacted former national player Sheik Mohamed, CEO of Star Sports, for a sponsorship for the talented left-handed spinner, and he readily agreed to donate the bat, gloves and pads, while the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) donated the gear bag.

Under Foster’s leadership, this vibrant cricket board has ensured that more than 300 youths

A representative of Star Sports handing over cricketing gears to Nigel Deodat

have benefited from donations of cricket gear under a wide range of programmes, including the Clayton Lambert Gears Project, Basil Butcher Trust Fund, BCB Patrons Fund, the Singh Brothers Gear Programme and the RHTY&SC Patrons Fund.

More youths are expected to benefit later this year, when a large shipment of gear and other equipment arrives from England. Several clubs in the Upper Corentyne would also benefit from a million-dollar cricket gears’ shipment which would arrive early next month from an overseas-based Guyanese, who contacted the BCB President with an offer to assist Berbice cricket.

Clubs in the county would also receive $700,000 worth of cricket balls under the Shimron/ Nirvani Hetmeyer Trust Fund and $300,000 worth of scorebooks from a travel company based in Georgetown.

Foster has expressed gratitude to Mohamed, who played for Guyana between 1988 and 1992, for his continued assistance to the development of Berbice cricket. He has also urged Deodat to care the donated gear and to remain focused and disciplined.

A humble and very thankful Deodat has promised to make both the BCB President and Mohamed very proud of his performances on and off the cricket field.

22

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021

WI vs Bangladesh: 2nd day, 2nd Test…

West Indies in control — Da Silva, Bonner score big — Gabriel leads charge in top-order collapse

H

aving lost the ODI series 3-0, and having chased for much of the first Test, before chasing down 395 on the final day in Chattogram, Kraigg Brathwaite and his West Indies team held all the aces at the end of the second day of the second Test against Bangladesh in Dhaka.

This was made possible largely because of a new-ball burst by Shannon Gabriel, backed up by some imaginative captaincy from Brathwaite, following career-best knocks of 92 from Joshua Da Silva and 90 from Nkrumah Bonner, aided by an enterprising 82 from Alzarri Joseph; all of which helped the visitors stretch their overnight 223 for 5 to 409.

For Bangladesh, Abu Jayed picked up his 3rd four-wicket haul to finish with 4 for 75, while Mehidy Hasan Miraz stayed tantalisingly poised on 99 Test wickets, after picking up the wicket of Bonner. At close of play, Mushfiqur Rahim had batted fluently to post 27, while Mohammed Mithun looked a bit nervy in making 6 off 61 balls.

West Indies walked out after tea with the weight of runs on the scoreboard, and Gabriel helped drive the advantage further by dismissing Soumya Sarkar, caught chipping a straight ball delivered from round the wicket, which Kyle Mayers at short mid-wicket took to dismiss him for a 4th-ball duck in the first over.

Off Gabriel's next over, Najmul Hossain Shanto, who had earlier taken a firm blow on his right shoulder off the bat of Bonner while fielding at forward

short leg, drove an overpitched delivery for four. Gabriel pitched up the next ball but offered some width, and Shanto slashed it to Bonner at gully, to leave Bangladesh at 11 for 2, the two wickets having come in the space of nine deliveries.

With Brathwaite shuffling Gabriel, Rahkeem Cornwall and Joseph with the new ball, Tamim Iqbal launched a counterattack in the company of his captain Mominul Haque, as the two senior batsmen added 58 runs off a little more than 12 overs.

With Haque's discomfort against short balls an open secret, the West Indies seamers placed a leg gully and two men out in the deep for the miscued hook, but both Iqbal and Haque handled the fast bowlers well.

Iqbal took a special liking for the bowling of Joseph, w h o

Silva for 21.

Iqbal's thrilling 44 off 52 balls, with six fours and a six, came to an end off Joseph, when he failed to keep a flick down and Shayne Moseley plucked an easy catch at short mid-wicket.

At 71 for 4, Bangladesh had again lost two quick wickets inside six balls, but Rahim and Mithun saw out the rest of the evening session.

Mithun was incorrectly given out caught behind down the leg side against Joseph when he hadn't even got off the mark, but the decision was overturned on review, since the ball had come off his thigh; and the only criticism one could have for Brathwaite's captaincy was that his most successful bowler from the first Test, left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican, came on to

strayed on to the pads far too often, and both batsmen used the upper cut over the slips cordon to good effect. But when i t seemed like the game was just beginning to drift towards Bangladesh, Cornwall was brought back on the attack by Brathwaite; and Haque, playing a cut to one that was too close to his body, was snapped up by Da

Shepherd, Paul, Rutherford among 19 West Indians in IPL auction list

T

hree Guyanese players: Romario Shepherd, Sherfane Rutherford and Keemo Paul, are among 19 West Indies players who have been shortlisted for the Indian Premier League draft, set for February 18 at the ITC Grand Chola in Chennai.

These Guyanese are among the 292 announced as having been shortlisted based on interest shown by the IPL franchises, and they represent about 30 per cent of the actual number of Caribbean players who have enrolled for the draft.

Besides these three Guyanese play-

ers, Evin Lewis, Darren Bravo, Rovman Powell, Oshane Thomas, Chemar Holder and Obed McCoy have also been shortlisted; as have Akeal Hosein, Kyle Mayers, Sheldon Cottrell, Fabian Allen, Carlos Brathwaite and Shannon Gabriel.

Jayden Seales, Fidel Edwards, Alzarri Joseph and Jon Ross Jaggesar complete the list of West Indies players who would each be hoping for a lucrative contract in the coming draft.

A total of 1097 players have registered for the 2021 IPL Draft. (Adapted from Sportsmax)

bowl only in the 30th over, well after the two right-handers had come to the crease.

The theme of West Indies’ domination on the day was set from the outset, with Jayed overpitching the first delivery of the day down the pads for Bonner, who whipped it away through mid-wicket for three.

In the same over, Bangladesh used up one review for a legbefore appeal where the ball seemed to be heading down leg; and off the next delivery, Da Silva pumped a short ball through point for the first boundary of the day.

Jayed was guilty of bowling either side of the wicket, while the spinners were frequently making errors in length, allowing Bonner and Da Silva to milk them for singles, and the latter to pick up the odd boundary.

Bonner, who had flicked one overpitched Jayed ball through mid-wicket for his first boundary of the morning, eventually fell to Miraz, bowling from round the wicket as he nicked one to Mithun at leg slip. He could scarcely believe his luck, having missed out on a maiden Test ton when it was in sight in successive innings in his first two Tests.

If Bonner and Da Silva had ensured that there were no nerves in the way the hosts began, their advantage was driven further in the course of the Joseph-Da Silva partnership.

Da Silva defended with ease, and reverse-swept the spinners to throw them off their length from time to time, while Joseph survived an early streaky boundary to play an attacking innings. He used his reach to good effect against the spinners, thrashing four of his five sixes through the deep mid-wicket region against them.

The Da Silva-Joseph partnership was broken by Islam, who got a straighter one to sneak through Da Silva's defence when he was on 90. With the lower order for company and 400 in sight, Joseph decided to take on Jayed's short ball, hitting him for six and four to deep square leg and fine leg respectively. Off the very next ball, he edged through to Liton Das, depriving himself of a chance to match Bonner and Da Silva by going past his careerbest of 86.

The end was quick for West Indies, with Jayed going on to garner his 3rd four-wicket haul, and Islam also picking up four for his troubles.

While the pitch still looks good to bat on, Bangladesh have a mountain to climb if they have to draw level in the two-Test series, with the hosts still needing another 105 to avoid the followon. (Adapted from ESPNCricinfo)

SCOREBOARD

WEST INDIES 1ST INNINGS Kraigg Brathwaite (c) c Najmul Hossain Shanto b Soumya Sarkar 47 John Campbell lbw b Taijul Islam 36 Shayne Moseley b Abu Jayed 7 Nkrumah Bonner c Mohammad Mithun b Mehidy Hasan Miraz 90 Kyle Mayers c Soumya Sarkar b Abu Jayed 5 Jermaine Blackwood c & b Taijul Islam 28 Joshua Da Silva † b Taijul Islam 92 Alzarri Joseph c †Liton Das b Abu Jayed 82 Rahkeem Cornwall not out 4 Jomel Warrican c †Liton Das b Abu Jayed 2 Shannon Gabriel c Mushfiqur Rahim b Taijul Islam 8 Extras (b 4, lb 2, nb 2) 8 TOTAL (142.2 Ov, RR: 2.87, 590 Mts) 409 Fall of wickets: 1-66 (John Campbell, 20.4 ov), 2-87 (Shayne Moseley, 33.2 ov), 3-104 (Kraigg Brathwaite, 41.1 ov), 4-116 (Kyle Mayers, 47.5 ov), 5-178 (Jermaine Blackwood, 71.6 ov), 6-266 (Nkrumah Bonner, 101.3 ov), 7-384 (Joshua Da Silva, 136.4 ov), 8-396 (Alzarri Joseph, 137.6 ov), 9-398 (Jomel Warrican, 139.2 ov), 10-409 (Shannon Gabriel, 142.2 ov) BOWLING Abu Jayed 28-6-98-4 Mehidy Hasan Miraz 33-9-75-1 Nayeem Hasan 24-3-74-0 Taijul Islam 46.2-8-108-4 Soumya Sarkar 11-1-48-1

BANGLADESH 1ST INNINGS Tamim Iqbal c Moseley b Joseph 44 Soumya Sarkar c Mayers b Gabriel 0 Najmul Hossain Shanto c Bonner b Gabriel 4 Mominul Haque (c) c †Da Silva b Cornwall 21 Mushfiqur Rahim not out 27 Mohammad Mithun not out 6

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2237230-1

(Ext 55)

NOW!

Extras (nb 3) 3 TOTAL (36 Ov, RR: 2.91) 105/4 Yet to bat: Liton Das †, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Nayeem Hasan, Taijul Islam, Abu Jayed Fall of wickets: 1-1 (Soumya Sarkar, 0.6 ov), 2-11 (Najmul Hossain Shanto, 2.2 ov), 3-69 (Mominul Haque, 14.6 ov), 4-71 (Tamim Iqbal, 15.5 ov) BOWLING Shannon Gabriel Rahkeem Cornwall Alzarri Joseph Kyle Mayers Jomel Warrican

8-2-31-2 11-4-18-1 8-1-34-1 5-1-12-0 4-1-10-0

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

23

Jaguars in 5-wicket win Berbice thrash jaded by 6 wickets against the Hurricanes —Essequibo Aaron Beharry barred from playing in final match — Johnson's unbeaten ton, Motie’s 4-for do the job

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uyana Jaguars captain Leon Johnson hit his second List A ton to lead the Jaguars to a 5-wicket win against the Leeward Islands Hurricanes in the CG Insurance Regional Super50 Cup in Antigua.

Battling away, Johnson ended unbeaten on 102 to help his team chase down 245 with 13 balls to spare.

Gudakesh Motie's top spell of 4-45 had earlier restricted the Hurricanes to 244-9.

Jaguars won the toss and bowled first, with one change in the starting XI -Ramaal Lewis replacing Akshaya Persaud. Outof-favour West Indies opener Kieran Powell and newcomer Ross Powell capitalised on the ordinary Jaguars fielding to add 152 runs for the opening partnership. Kieran was the aggressor, while Ross was the apprentice at the other end. The latter was not removed until the 31st over, when he fell to Motie.

While most people would question Motie’s late introduction into the attack, it proved to be an anti-climactic in the Hurricanes innings. Ross Powell scored 61 from 99 balls, including eight fours, but after that big 152run opening partnership, the Hurricanes lost eight wickets for 86 runs, with Motie wreaking havoc on the Hurricanes.

Motie sent back Kieran Powell for 94 through a catch sharply taken by Leon Johnson when the score was at 164-2. The rain intervened for 12 minutes, but Motie picked up from where he had left off by removing the top four Hurricanes batsmen.

In addition to Motie's 4-45 in nine overs, fellow Berbician Nial Smith, bowling with pace and aggression, was rewarded late in his spell with good figures of 3-47 in nine overs, inclusive of one maiden, as Hurricanes ended on 244-9 in 50 overs.

Romario Shepherd chipped in with 2-50 in eight overs.

MACORP CEO Guillermo Escarraga practising at the NexGen Golf Academy

In response, Jaguars had a steady start, with Chandrapaul Hemraj and Assad Fudadin adding 45 runs in 8.5 overs.

Hemraj was trapped at the crease

by Guyanese Ashmead Nedd, while Shimron Hetmyer (09) was run out by the live-wire Hayden Walsh Jr when the score was at 56-2.

Fudadin and skipper Johnson joined forces, and the duo added 20 runs together. The experienced Christopher Barnwell and Johnson then added 101 runs to set up the chase. Barnwell chased

a wide ball and edged to slips, where the catch was taken when he was on 49 from 52 balls, which included three sixes and one four.

Johnson continued to anchor the innings, adding 14 with Anthony Bramble (02). Shepherd stayed unbeaten on 17 from 23 balls, while Johnson ended on 102 from 123 balls, which included 12 fours and one six.

Nedd had 2-24 in his 10 overs, while Sheeno Berridge had 2-57. Jaguars will play Jamaica Scorpions on Sunday February 14 in a match that starts at 13:30h.

SCOREBOARD LEEWARD ISLANDS INNINGS Kieran Powell c Johnson b Moti-Kanhai 94 Ross Powell c Hetmyer b Moti-Kanhai 61 Nitish Kumar c None b Moti-Kanhai 5 Kacey Carty c Bramble b Moti-Kanhai 11 Devon Thomas c Johnson b Smith 24 Amir Jangoo b Smith 9 Hayden Walsh c Hemraj b Shepherd 15 Terance Ward b Smith 1 Jeremiah Louis c Hetmyer b Shepherd 5 Ashmead Nedd not out 3 Sheeno Berridge not out 1 Total (9 wickets, 50.0) (15 extras) 244 152/1 (30.6) Ross Powell, 164/2 (32.6) Kieran Powell, 171/3 (34.5) Nitish Kumar 184/4 (38.2) Kacey Carty 203/5 (43.4) Amir Jangoo 230/6 (47.2) Devon Thomas 232/7 (47.6), Hayden Walsh 232/8 (48.1) Hayden Walsh 238/9 (48.5)

GUYANA JAGUARS INNINGS Assad Fudadin b Nedd 22 Chanderpaul Hemraj lbw b Nedd 24 Shimron Hetmyer run out 9 Leon Johnson not out 102 Christopher Barnwell c Jangoo b Berridge 49 Anthony Bramble c Jangoo b Berridge 2 Romario Shepherd not out 17 Total (5 wickets, 47.5) (20 extras) 245 45/1 (8.4) Chanderpaul Hemraj 56/2 (11.3) Shimron Hetmyer 76/3 (18.1) Assad Fudadin 177/4 (37.4) Christopher Barnwell 191/5 (39.3) BOWLING Jeremiah Louis Sheeno Berridge Terance Ward Ashmead Nedd Hayden Walsh Nitish Kumar Devon Thomas

(6.2-0-34-0) (10-0-57-2) (10-1-34-0) (10-2-24-2) (6.5-0-52-0) (2-0-20-0) (2.4-0-15-0)

BOWLING Kevin Sinclair (10-0-32-0) Romario Shepherd (8-0-50-2) Nial Smith (9-1-47-3) Ramaal Lewis (10-0-42-0) Gudakesh Motie (9-0-45-4) Chanderpaul Hemraj (4-0-21-0)

By Timothy Jaikarran

I

n a country such as Guyana, where golf seems to be on the rise, there is a plethora of opportunities for the sport. But, more importantly, the introduction of the sport into schools will reap major benefits.

This has already been done by the Guyana Golf Association (GGA) and NexGen Golf Academy President, Aleem Hussain. He has also gained support from MACORP CEO Guillermo Escarraga, who believes that golf has a far way to go in this nation, and that it should be played in schools, as this would expose children to the early development.

Asked his view on the sport being introduced in schools, as done by the GGA, Escarraga said, “Starting the sport in schools is wonder-

By Brandon Corlette

B

erbice recorded a sixwicket win against Essequibo in the second and penultimate round of the Guyana Cricket Board’s (GCB’s) Hand-in-Hand under-19 intercounty tournament at La Bonne Intention (LBI).

The fixture, reduced to 36 overs to facilitate the Essequibo team’s travel schedule, saw Essequibo winning the toss and electing to bat as the match commenced at 9:21h. A collective bowling effort, led by playerof-the-match Gourav Ramesh, restricted Essequibo to 96 all out in 34 overs, with Sheldon Charles hitting a top-score of 30.

Essequibo lost captain Ameer Singh to paceman Leon Swamy for a 10-ball duck when

Ramesh ended with 3-19 in six overs, while Leon Swamy claimed 2-21 in seven overs.

Jonathan Rampersaud and Nigel Deodat each had 1-14 in their respective spells of eight and six overs. The Essequibo innings also saw three run- outs.

In reply Berbice lost Shamar Angel for a golden duck off lively pacer Niko Vincent. The Berbicians reached the lunch interval at 13-1, with Rampertab Ramnauth and Marvan Prashad being unbeaten at the crease.

Prashad and Ramnauth added 43 runs together before gifting their wickets to the opposition. Left-handed West Indies youth player Ramnauth was trapped in front by Lance Roberts, having made 21 after occupying the crease for 70 minutes, during which he had

Sheldon Charles top-scored for Essequibo with 30

Gourav Ramesh and his team mates celebrating one of his three wickets (Brandon Corlette photos)

the score was at 15-1; and Mahesh Ramnarine (01) and Carl Gilgeous (00) fell cheaply to reduce Essequibo to 28-3 in 7.5 overs.

Charles was joined by Wazim Mohamed (10), and the duo added 16 runs before Mohamed was brilliantly caught by Prashad off the bowling of Ramesh. After Charles was run out for 30 from 66 balls, which included one four and one six, Lance Roberts -batting at number 9 - freed up his arms in his 12-ball 19 to decorate his score with two fours and one six. Roberts added 25 runs with Aryan Persaud, who remained unbeaten on 15.

faced 47 balls and had struck 3 fours. Blairmont's top youth batsman Prashad played some delightful strokes in compiling his 24 from 54 balls.

Aaron Beharry and Seon Glasgow then added the finishing touches, after Nigel Deodat was removed for six. Beharry looked proactive in his unbeaten 19, while Glasgow, who ended the match with a thumping six over mid-wicket, remained unbeaten on a run-a-ball 21. Jason Holder, Vincent, Roberts and Persaud each claimed a wicket.

Berbice easily achieved their target in 30 overs, ending victorious on 98-4.

ful. I started to play the sport only 5 years ago, and it’s harder when you start at a later age, so starting at 10 or 12 years of age is the best way of really mastering the game and becoming a good player. So, it’s definitely something that is really important, that we could have our kids start at an early age and have the time to develop. It’s very important that our kids have that opportunity to play at the early stages.”

The game of golf has many benefits to a student in school, and while not all schools in Guyana are equipped to play golf, progress is definitely being made and the right steps are being taken by the Guyana Golf Association.

Some of the benefits of golf in schools are listed below: * Acting as a resource to help students develop the physical literacy skills necessary to acquire the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to lead healthy, active, and successful lives * Exposing students to culturally diverse activities

Beharry, who proved instrumental in the Berbice chase, has been barred from playing the final match against Demerara. According to reliable sources, Beharry played in the Demerara Cricket Board’s interassociations, and played the trial matches in Berbice. It would be interesting to see how this decision pans out in the future.

The final round of the shortened tournament will be played on Sunday, February 14, at the LBI facility, featuring powerhouses Demerara and Berbice. With both teams recording wins against Essequibo, that match would be a final, with the winners taking all.

* Providing the avenue to continue their participation within golf outside of school * Increasing their knowledge of golf and enabling the learning of other related sport/ games activities to expand their basic movement skill development. * Bringing awareness to socio-economic factors. * Promoting active healthy living as part of a well-balanced life. * Providing age-appropriate assessment tools that students can use to determine their own progress and success.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021

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

Jaguars in 5-wicket win against the Hurricanes — Johnson's unbeaten ton,

(Photos: CWI Media Phillp Spooner)

Pg 23

Motie’s 4-for do the job

Page 23

Escarraga supports GGA initiative of introducing golf in schools Pg 22

WI vs Bangladesh: 2nd day, 2nd Test…

West Indies in control — Da Silva, Bonner score big

— Gabriel leads charge in top-order collapse

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