Guyana Times - Saturday November 14, 2020

Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 4469

THE BEACON OF TRUTH SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020

Diwali in Guyana

PRICE

$80 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Guyana a shining example of religious tolerance See story on page 15

— Indian High Commissioner Single mother tells of struggles, sacrifices to give daughters better life

Govt to work with Private Sector to P3 develop anticrime plan – President COVID-19 P25 provided opportunity for local firms to embrace technology – AmCham E’bo teen killed on late father’s P19 birthday

…as President Ali fulfills wish of young Page 24 girl to seek an education US$1B cocaine bust

P13 GA-FDD warns against repackaging medications

Eight-year-old Tasmini Sewah receiving her tablet from President Dr Irfaan Ali, moments after telling him of her struggle in seeking an education during the COVID-19 pandemic

Special housing programme for military officers – President Ali Page 18

Fortune 500 firms interested in investing in Guyana … “our long-awaited transformation” on verge of unfolding – Finance Minister Page 23

Police issue wanted bulletin for container P17 shipper

P8 Another 150 Guyanese receive land titles, transports

2

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

3

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, November 14 – 02:30h – 04:00h and 13:30 – 15:00 and Sunday, November 15 – 03:00h – 04:30h and 13:30h – 15:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, November 14 – 15:40h – 17:10h and Sunday, November 15 – 16:15h – 17:45h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Expect sunny intervals and light rain showers during the day. There will be partly cloudy skies at night. Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: South South-Easterly to South-Easterly to East South-Easterly to Easterly to East NorthEasterly to North-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 3.57 metres.

High Tide: 15:50h maximum height of

reaching a 2.92 metres.

Low Tide: 09:24h and 21:50h reaching minimum heights of 0.42 metre and 0.26 metre.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2020

LOTTERY NUMBERS J

02 05 07

14 17 28

FREE TICKET

1

Govt to work with Private Sector to develop anti-crime plan – President A

cknowledging that a safe and secure environment is needed in order for businesses to flourish, President Dr Irfaan Ali on Friday announced that he will be working closely with the Private Sector in developing an anti-crime strategy.

“We recognise the need to improve public security. We’ve begun to strengthen the capacity of the Guyana Police Force to combat crime and improving the capacity of the Guyana Revenue Authority to arrest contraband smuggling,” the Head of State announced during his keynote address to the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) during its Annual General Meeting.

“My Government will work with the Private Sector in developing an anti-crime plan aimed to better protect the business community and citizens,” President Ali said as he outlined his Government’s business development strategy.

Apart from crime, he noted that his Government is committed to upholding democratic principles since businesses tend to strive in an environment of economic freedom.

“Democracy is vitally important to national development and to providing comfort to investors that there is respect for the rule of law and thus their investment will not be subjected to capricious actions,” he explained.

According to the Guyanese leader, the absence of democracy creates an unfair playing field,

Bonus Ball

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2020

DAILY MILLIONS

06 08 12 16 18 LUCKY 3

3

7

2

1

Afternoon Draw

9

3

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

07

08

11

12

14 15

PAY DAY

20 SUPER PAY DAY FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2020

03 07 09 14 16

02 05 06 08 18

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

COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Change %

Crude Oil

$42.78/barrel

-1.75

Rough Rice

$222.39/ton

+0.16

London Sugar

$412.80/ton

+1.45

Live Spot Gold

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1889.20

$1878.10

Low/High

$1875.10

$1885.30

0.00

0.00%

Change

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

President Dr Irfaan Ali

predatory business practices and corruption.

Another tenet of the business strategy, he explained, is improving the ease of doing business in Guyana. This, he noted, will be done through an electronic single window for trade which will “reduce time and cost”, simplify trade procedures and “eliminate duplication and redundancy”.

“Instead of an importer, for example, having to visit six agencies for permits and approvals, all the documentation will be submitted at a single window and this will then be shared with the various agencies,” President Ali explained.

He also stressed the need for businesses to operate in a competitive environment, making reference to the PPP/C Government’s prompt liberalisation of the telecommunications sector – which immediately triggered a multitude of benefits to consumers from the country’s major telecoms providers.

President Ali said there will be a national quality infrastructure project that will bolster the ability of

local businesses to engage in global trade and ultimately increase competitiveness.

Additionally, he said the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce is working on an electronic transaction bill that will provide the facilitation of secure electronic communications and transactions.

The Head of State also touted a national entrepreneurship and innovation council to reform the culture of entrepreneurship, particularly to help existing entrepreneurs and to create new ones.

On the matter of trade policy, the President explained that his Government will work to unlock new markets for traditional exports like rice, sugar, bauxite and timber; as well as seek new opportunities for new products, services, and industries.

Moving on, President Ali underscored the importance of the small business sector to the economy, noting that they are “indispensable” and that they represent the “arms and legs of the economy”.

He recognised that the small business sector has taken a serious hit amid the COVID-19 pandemic and it is against this backdrop that the President noted that they should be supported by Government.

C o n s e q u e n t l y , President Ali announced that there will be a small business amendment bill that will expand the range of procurement opportunities for micro-enterprises; to ensure that they bene-

fit more from Government procurement.

Additionally, he noted that the grants offered by the Small Business Bureau have increased by 100 per cent since the new PPP/C Administration assumed office. In the same breath, President Ali said the Government will continue to promote access to financing for small businesses.

Moreover, the Head of State called into focus the need for consumer protection and noted that his Administration is working on a number of regulations aimed at protecting consumers. He made reference to the Hire Purchase Bill which deals with the procurement of items on credit.

President Ali lamented that the current legislation “provides that once a consumer defaults on a single payment, the owner is entitled to forfeit all the previous payments and to repossess the item. This can hardly be fair to the consumer”.

Another important aspect, he explained, is the country’s infrastructure.

In this regard, President Ali highlighted the progress made by his new Administration in advancing several major projects – particularly those that will improve the transportation network.

The need for cheaper and more reliable energy is another issue, President Ali noted, that will have to be addressed urgently as the Government works to create an environment that is attractive to investors.

4

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020

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

Diwali: Guyanese festival

T

onight, will be the darkest and longest of the year. To us in Guyana, who are near the equator, the lengthening is not as significant at that for countries nearer the North Pole. In India, for instance, from where almost half of our population originated, at this time early man would have reaped his crops and prepared for winter. Lights were lit to celebrate the harvests and also to mark the gradual lengthening of the days and the return of light.

This was the birth of Diwali, that joyous festival in which God in the female form of “Mother Lakshmi”, the giver of wealth and light, is worshipped. Food was wealth to early man and one can understand why she is worshipped at this time. Hindus are very clear about the need for man to acquire wealth: it is his duty, for without wealth man cannot take care of any of his mortal obligations. But even more important that acquiring wealth, is its distribution for the upliftment of society. The Hindu is exhorted to “earn with a hundred hands; give with a thousand”.

The first prayer uttered by the Hindu upon awakening, while looking at his open palms, is “Lakshmi (Goddess of Wealth) is on the tip of my fingers; Saraswati (Goddess of knowledge) is in the middle and Govinda (The God of Protection) is at its base.” Man then, is responsible for earning wealth but to do so he must acquire knowledge.

Armed with wealth and knowledge he will be able to protect him/herself, family, community and country.

This acquiring of knowledge is one of the “lights” that Divali reminds us must be lit. In Guyana today, there is much ignorance abounding and because of this, society suffers.

The knowledge of how we can make our society more harmonious is available; many countries also have similar challenges but worked successfully to address them. Is there a Guyanese who really does not have the “information” that the leaders of all the groups of Guyana must cooperate for the development of our country? But information must be validated through action to become “knowledge”: and until we all choose leaders who are prepared to work together for the common good, we are all ensuring our dark nights will only lengthen.

Diwali also suggests another message - for the individual.

When the nights were getting longer, early man would have seen that the individual lights did not make a difference: but together the sun could be evoked. Let there be light! And this is what we also have to do in Guyana. In addition to selecting leaders who have the interests of all the people at heart, individuals also have to light their own lights to eliminate whatever darkness that confronts them. Is it a problem with a neighbour? A co-worker? Then do what it takes to resolve the problem - that will be “lighting a light”.

The actual festival of Diwali has also come down to us with other practices that are of immense value to creating a more cohesive society: the process is as important as the content. There is a complete and most thorough cleaning of the home by all members of the Hindu family to welcome Mother Lakshmi into that home. There is also the cooking of sweetmeats and creating of diyas (fast disappearing) which all help to bring the family closer together. The sharing of the sweetmeats with neighbours and friends spreads that closeness far and wide in the community.

In multi-ethnic and multi-religious Guyana, it is a welcome development that other groups than Hindus are participating in this festival of Divali, which can play such a positive role in nation building. The Hindus themselves have increasingly begun to take the festival into the public space where the rest of the country can be engaged. The Diwali Motorcade, which unfortunately had to be cancelled this year due to Covid-19- but rather take on a virtual form has become a feature in Guyana’s cultural heritage, and has been joined by the “National Diya” for the past six years.

Shub Diwali to all!

Employees of Guyana Times, Television Guyana (Ch 28) and Radio Guyana - 89.5 share a photo on Friday during the entities’ annual Diwali celebrations. Inset: Administrative staff pose near the Rangoli display

Chairman of Manniram Prashad MP Insurance Brokers and Consultants along with staff share a photo during the company’s Diwali observance

Be the light you wish to see in the world Dear Editor, As we celebrate the auspicious occasion of Diwali - the festival of light that overcomes darkness, and where love conquers all we, the Guyana Islamic Forum for Education, Peace and Religious Solidarity, the Electric Mosque’s Presentation of the Teachings of Islam, in association with the Universal Peace Federation – Guyana, take this opportunity to extend heartfelt Diwali greetings to our President, His Excellency Dr. Irfaan Ali, and family; Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo; Prime Minister Brigadier Mark

Phillips, Ministers within the Government, members of the Opposition, and the nation of Guyana; especially our Hindu brothers and sisters.

With the prevailing COVID-19 among us, humanity is on its knees, and hence we look forward to any occasion that would help to uplift our steadfastness and hope. The wisdom and understanding of Shree Ram’s exile and his return to his home and mother have lived through the centuries, and are forever engraved in our hearts and minds.

The meaning of this oc-

casion is not only related to one faith, but is also symbolically important to all religions. The message of the augmentation of good, the elimination of evil, and the outpouring of human kindness and love for the earth, the universe, and humanity is prevalent in all religions.

All of these facets are aimed at the common concept of a one world system in which all human beings are one.

On this occasion of Diwali, just like the diyas that bring light to our homes, let us take up the mantra of selfless service to be the light we wish to see in the world. Let us strive

not only to light the lamps outside, but to be the light ourselves.

May the message of this occasion inspire us to personal introspection and restoration as we immerse our souls in the Super Soul (Universal Creator). Let us become the Divine Light that illuminates this world through the goodness of our deeds and the selflessness of our acts, in order to cultivate an inextinguishable light within us and the universe.

Shubh Diwali.

Sincerely, Roshan Khan

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020

5

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

Dr Bharrat Jagdeo is here for the long haul ‘Fairy’ traffic lights on

Dear Editor, I noticed that Ms Audreyanna Thomas tried to deliver a lesson on ethics to Vice President (VP) Dr Bharrat Jagdeo. She has expressed dismay at the way in which Dr Jagdeo, at a press conference, addressed the question of Dr Mark Bynoe’s job status, and at Dr Jagdeo’s reference to GECOM’s staff as “criminals.”

Pushing beyond the ethical goalpost, Ms Thomas insinuates that Dr Bharrat Jagdeo should resign as Vice President and proceed to become a farmer! What an astonishing comment! I wonder what she thinks of David Granger and Joseph Harmon as political leaders! Should they ever be in politics?

Ms Thomas sarcastically pleads, “the ‘poor’ Vice President is probably tired of doing public service.” Just to note: because Ms. Thomas is not a behavioural scientist, her statement is flimsy. Had she been a behavioural scientist, she would have been able to admonish Joseph Harmon and other PNCR operatives for publicly impugning the character of Jamaica’s former Prime Minister Bruce Golding, and CARICOM Chair Dr Ralph Gonsalves, as well as denigrating Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley.

Ethical standards are not only for Dr Jagdeo and the PPPC, but also for all politicians and civic leaders.

Ms Thomas has used caustic, and sometimes dramatic, language to make her wobbly points. She says that the VP threatened to fire Dr. Mark Bynoe, Head of the Department of Energy, and “indicating the possibility of giving his [Dr Bynoe’s] job to Dr. Vincent Adams.” Ms. Thomas contends that “such remarks were inappropriate and disrespectful to Dr. Bynoe.”

For clarity, Dr Bynoe was never threatened. It was just a question of matching his skills set with the proper job description.

The other issue relates to the VP’s reference to the staff at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) as “criminals”. In Ms Thomas’s view, such a label could apply only after a conviction is secured. To a certain extent, I agree with Ms. Thomas. If politicians in particular are not holders of government offices, they can probably say anything and get away with it; but when they hold public office, the norms and rules that govern their operations are different, and therefore care must be taken in the proper use of language and the need to safeguard confidential matters.

The practical problem is: how does anyone expect the VP to respond when a reporter inquired into the employment status of Dr Bynoe? Should he tell the truth, or suppress it?

It was stated on a few occasions before that Dr Bynoe’s qualifications were more appropriate to a non-oil/gas sector. It is being considered that Dr Vincent Adams, who was Head of the Department of Environment, be engaged in the oil and gas sector where his expertise in wholly relevant.

The employment status of both Dr Bynoe and Dr Adams has been in the public domain. Seeking to clarify them in a transparent way is not necessarily inappropriate.

I believe that referring to some elements of the GECOM Secretariat staff as ‘criminals’ by the VP was unfortunate from a strictly legalistic viewpoint. However, from another perspective, such terms as riggers and fraudsters have been used interchangeably.

But this is not the time to get engaged in semantics. The attempt to steal an election by few GECOM staff and others was committed in the clear view of the world. Public opinion does not need a court to confirm what people saw. If, for example, someone were to choke and rob me of my purse, do I necessarily have to wait upon a formal conviction to call him a thief or criminal? However, I do agree that while I can make such a comment, the VP and other Government officials must be held to a higher standard in the use of rhetoric.

Ms Thomas makes a

startling point: “The Vice President must be reminded that it was the same GECOM staff (‘criminals’) who managed the Local Government Elections (LGE) in November of 2018 and his party was extremely happy with the results of the elections”. That LGE election had set up carefully the modus operandi on how and to what extent GECOM rogue staff, in collusion with others, would need to rig the 2020 General Elections to give the incumbent regime a victory. The massive focus was never on LGE, but on the General Elections that would elect the next government of the emerging oil-mixed economy. I wonder if Ms. Thomas ever condemned the rigging of the 2020 elections? Or will she wait until the court makes a ruling?

Ms Thomas must also know that Dr Jagdeo is not only smart, but is also one of the most popular politicians in Guyana (confirmed by Dr Vishnu Bisram’s poll). His standing in the international community is lofty. I know that Dr Jagdeo is not perfect, but perfection should never become the enemy of the good. Dr Bisram’s polls indicate that the VP is full of energy, is a visionary, and has vast experience, which combine to boost Guyana’s development strategy.

Yours truly, Dr Tara Singh

Magic wand in 100 days Dear Editor, The barefaced and brazen display by the APNU of yet another attempt to not only fool its supporters, but to make yet another attempt to make our country ungovernable, will most certainly add to its already badly emaciated public image which its members worked at laboriously to destroy for five long months after the PPP/C had won the 2020 Elections.

This time, they want Guyanese to believe that after 100 days in office, the PPP/C Government has done nothing for Guyanese. They even had the audacity to make that blatantly deceitful statement in their protest. However, they must now realise that no one believes them anymore. The asininity which pervades the ‘intelligentsia’ of the PNCdominated APNU is beyond anyone’s comprehension when they said, “We have seen the extent of the PPP’s failure to govern our beautiful country”.

Are these people from the real world? What the PPP/C Government has done in 100 days would have taken APNU 100 years to achieve. in fact, in just five years, they have destroyed everything good in our beautiful country. Everything which the PPP/C had worked for was almost dissipated. In fact, in just 100 days, APNU had begun to reverse the progress that the PPP had made, and began an insane lust to en-

rich not only themselves, but their families and friends.

The humongous salary increases, the increasing taxes, and the removal of subsidies to pensioners and grants to students are just a few.

This country owes an eternal debt to Dr Jagdeo, who not only exposed them, but charted the course to remove them from office.

During their tenure, they ensured that they emptied the Treasury and depleted all the reserves, including gold and foreign exchange. And as if that were not enough, they raked up an overdraft of over $90 billion. In totality, the Coalition squandered nearly $2 trillion in five years, with nothing to show except closure of the estates, the dismissal of tens of thousands of workers, skyrocketing corruption in an unprecedented scale, and the pauperisation of the majority of Guyanese.

Moreover, to add insult to injury, they held this nation hostage for 5 months, illegally trying to continue devastating this nation. The ills they have foisted on this nation are too numerous to mention. Volumes have already been written about the destruction and the corruption of the Coalition, so I will not venture into a long dissertation.

I was aghast when I saw that the Coalition was blaming the PPP/C for the increase in COVID-19 deaths. What had they done from January to August? I will answer that

question: They did nothing, except trying every illegality to remain in power! During that time, they used the pandemic to enrich themselves and cronies. This brings to mind the Ocean View fiasco, which saw $1.6 billion being squandered to produce a ‘shell’, not a hospital.

Whilst trying madly to hold on to power, they were at the same time thieving left, right and centre. Fortunately, the PPP/C has now turned this around into the facility which it ought to be to fight this dreaded disease. Imagine, the Coalition even used our misery to steal. If the PPP/C was in Government just after the March 2nd Elections, they would have stemmed the increase in deaths and infections we are now seeing.

Now the Coalition are throwing their filth at the PPP/C Government.

Since assuming office in August, the Government has done wonders. Apart from doing a lot more tests, the Government has allocated $150 million to our frontline health workers; and ventilators, oxygen concentrators and other equipment necessary for treating patients have been received and are being operationalised. The Government has retrofitted the Infectious Diseases Hospital and improved the capacity of regional hospitals to treat coronavirus patients.

In addition, Guyana is in line to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. The Government is now

cleaning the garbage and the criminality which the Coalition bequeathed to the Guyanese nation!

Moreover, instead of hosting shows and sharing free tickets to bribe the people, this caring Government gave every household $25,000 which brought smiles to those who are affected by the virus, and the Coalitioninduced depressive state of the economy. I am sure those who were protesting the PPP/ C’s 100 days in office gleefully received their monies as well. Again, I will not repeat the many benefits and immediate reliefs which the 2020 Budget brought to Guyanese, our lives are already improving due to these measures, and soon the closed sugar factories will once again be belching smoke as GuySuCo progresses to prosperity.

I firmly believe the President when he emphatically said, “Guyanese can look forward to a better life under the PPP/C Administration.

Despite the monumental challenges which we faced, we have defied expectations and delivered progress.”

Let the Opposition be a meaningful one, which can work towards progress and prosperity of all Guyanese, instead of continuing its journey of destructive politics. Stop trying to fool your supporters again and again.

Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf

East Coast Demerara Dear Editor, Recently, additional traffic lights were installed on the East Coast of Demerara. Lights are now at Sheriff Street, Bel Air, Turkeyen, Ogle, Better Hope, Le Ressouvenir, LBI, BV, Triumph, Mon Repos and Lusignan.

The inconvenience this imposes on motorists is disgusting and infuriating. To compound the aggravation, the lights do not operate in tandem; that is to say: east-to-west and north-to-south simultaneously, but rather one at a time, to the frustration of motorists.

This dilemma is also evident on the Railway Embankment.

I have travelled widely, and have never encountered such lack of vision.

On November 09, at about 12:30pm, I was driving west on the Railway Embankment, and had to stop at the traffic lights at Bel Air. There was a build-up of traffic, and I had to wait until all the lights changed twice before proceeding. I observed there was a long line of eastbound traffic from Bel Air to Sheriff Street, and that line had to remain

immobile to facilitate only the westbound traffic.

By what logic should this ordeal be allowed to continue?

The purpose of traffic lights is to regulate the flow of traffic, but in this case it served to impede. The architect of this absurdity should be disciplined for ineptitude, which has caused unnecessary discomfort to motorists. It would be advisable that these lights be recalibrated to eliminate the current inconvenience.

Also, minor heed is being paid to the pedestrian crossings, as pedestrians are often seen flouncing and not adhering to the signs. It is even considered dangerous to use some of these pedestrian crossings, hence measures should be initiated to alleviate the danger.

I spoke with the Attorney General on this matter, and he expressed agreement with the content of this missive. He even authorised me to indicate his disapproval of this imposition, which he considers a retrogressive step.

Sincerely, Maurice Rajkumar

Message and teaching of humanity finding the good in ourselves Dear Editor, The Sanatan Vaidic Dharma Pandits’ Sabha Region Three extends Shubh Diwali to the entire nation.

We wish that everyone would experience, and contribute to, the positive and spiritually uplifting spirit of Diwali.

Diwali captures and celebrates the exuberances of life in all aspects. From traditional foods, dance, music, folklore and rituals to the discovery of the Divine Self in us; the purpose and journey of life, and the ultimate goal are all netted in the beauty of the festival. Diwali is ‘Pancha Parva’, or a fiveday celebration, beginning two days prior to Deepavali and concluding two days after. Different sections of the Hindu population observe either all five of the days, or only a few.

What is central, however, in the observance of all these days of light celebration, pomp and festivity is the message and teaching of humanity finding the good

in ourselves. It is a celebration of light over darkness; knowledge over ignorance; and, ultimately, the attainment of the Light Divine ever latent within. Little earthen lamps (diyas), symbolic of our finite Jeeva (body, mind, and tendencies), are lit in this celebration from a larger diya, symbolic of the Supreme Light (God). The symbology here is as divinely deep as it is philosophical. It demonstrates the relationship between creation and creator — a constant dependence of creation on the creator for sustenance.

In the final analysis, Diwali provides the platform to remind all of our inner light source, and the need to consciously connect from within, so that we may bring forth, through thoughts and actions, the good in us.

Once again, the Sabha wishes all a blessed and happy Diwali.

Yours sincerely, Pt Charranlall Avishkar Nandalall

6

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Be proud of Guyana, where people of different backgrounds, beliefs embody fabric of our national traditions – President Ali on Diwali

I

extend joyous greetings to all Guyanese, but especially to our Hindu brothers and sisters.

Diwali is one of the most important festivals in the Hindu calendar. The festival has been observed since ancient times. It is an occasion for families and friends to come together to light diyas, share gifts, spread joy, and reflect on the profound religious meaning of the festival.

The ageless message of Diwali is that light will overcome darkness, knowledge will override ignorance, and hope will prevail over despair. Diwali instills in us the confidence that, with hope and unity, we can overcome any challenge.

This year has been a challenging one for our nation. But we have overcome one of our foremost hurdles,

President Dr Irfaan Ali

and we are working assiduously to resolve the present health crisis.

The COVID-19 pandemic has meant that much of the usual festivities associated with this sacred day will have to be moderated this year. I urge that, even in the midst of the present health crisis, we do not succumb to despondency or de-

spair. May the festival renew and strengthen our belief that we can and will overcome our present challenges!

It is my wish at this time that the radiance of the myriad lamps of Diwali would guide us along the path of enlightenment, truth and responsibility.

Let us use this year’s observances to reflect on our actions as we work together to build a nation of peace, unity and prosperity.

I encourage everyone to be proud of a Guyana where people of different backgrounds and beliefs embody the fabric of our national traditions.

May the festival of lights usher in happiness, joy and love, and may it strengthen our families and the bonds which unite us as a people!

Happy Diwali to all Guyana!

ERC urges all Guyanese to embrace significance of Deepavali

T

he Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) extends Deepavali greetings to all Guyanese, especially the Hindu community, and reminds all that the festival of light serves as a profound source of inspiration for the eventual triumph of light over darkness.

Other important lessons of Deepavali provide guidance for all, as Guyanese continue to work assiduously toward the national goal of strengthening the bonds of friendship. It is through this that national harmony can be achieved, so that our people can confront challenges

together to remove the dark veil of division.

The traditional motorcades and their inherent beauty, along with that of thousands of flickering diyas, are much anticipated every year. However, the impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has prevented the spectacular motorcades from being held. The ERC is confident that despite those unavoidable challenges, the true spirt of Deepavali will not be deterred.

In the midst of the pandemic, the ERC cautions everyone to exercise utmost care, and that all stay safe

during the observances.

The traditional national observance, through its significance, is replete with messages of togetherness.

The Commission therefore urges that Guyanese endeavour to have that particular influence built upon for the promotion of harmony, unity and good relations among all in this multi-faceted society.

The ERC believes that those messages bode well for the advancement of the Guyanese nation, its people and humanity at large.

Shubh Deepavali to all, from the Ethnic Relations Commission!

Significance of Deepavali pertinent for upliftment of all mankind — PPP

A

s our nation celebrates the festival of Deepavali, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) takes this opportunity to extend greetings to all Guyanese, especially the Hindu community.

The significance of Deepavali, known as the “Festival of Lights”, is pertinent for the

upliftment of all mankind through its universal message of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.

The light of the diyas which will shine throughout our country symbolises a sense of renewal.

Our Party urges that this message be heeded, so that darkness, ignorance, and hatred can be repelled in the interest of all humanity, knowing that knowledge will defeat ignorance and compassion will triumph over despair.

Deepavali offers an opportune reminder for all to do their part to achieve that victory.

The influence of Deepavali in forging better relationships has grown tremendously over the years. Our Party is, however, cognizant of the ongoing impact of COVID-19, with the unavoidable curtailing of traditional national events associated with Deepavali, including the various motorcades, and which have been effective in bringing our people together. The PPP is confident that, despite these challenges, the light of the diyas will continue to shine into our hearts, comforting and guiding us during this period.

Shubh Deepavali to all!

Bright lights of Diwali are considered to signify illuminatory power of knowledge – IAC

T

he Indian Action Committee (IAC) extends Diwali greetings to all Guyanese, especially persons who are adherents of Sanatana Dharma, on the occasion of the now globally-recognised festival of Deepavali or Diwali, which is derived from the Sanskrit language and means “a row of lights”, Diwali falls on the new moon night of the month of Kartika, and is celebrated over a period of five days in India.

Diwali is associated with several mythological stories, one of them dealing with the belief of Hindus that on the day of Diwali, Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, King of Lanka, and that the people of Ayodhya celebrated his return by lighting thousands of diyas.

The IAC recognises that, in Guyana, the Goddess Lakshmi Maataa, or Maha Lakshmi, is venerated on the day of Diwali, her devotees ardently believing that their veneration of her would result in wealth and prosperity being bestowed upon them in the future.

The bright lights of Diwali are believed, by Hindus, to guide and welcome Lakshmi Maataa into their homes, where she can bestow her blessings on them and their families, and also to guide and welcome Lord Rama back to Ayodhya.

The bright lights of Diwali are also considered to signify the illuminatory power of knowledge, which destroys the darkness of ignorance, and also to represent the triumph of good over evil.

The IAC also recognis-

es the seriousness of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has infected over 4600 citizens, killing almost 140 persons, and calls upon all Guyanese to maintain safety protocols during the Festival of Diwali.

The IAC has observed that, over the years, lack of care in the lighting and handling of diyas has led to the destruction of homes by fire, and the organization urges all persons involved in this activity to be extremely careful in order to prevent such tragedies that mar the enjoyment of the Festival of Diwali.

The IAC calls upon all Guyanese to respect the sanctity of Diwali, and engage in appropriate and fitting observances and activities.

Shubh Diwali!

Diversity has worked, will continue to work, to Let the diyas of the mind illuminate Guyana’s advantage - PNCR wisdom in all communities - GAWU

D

iwali, the festival of lights, is yet another manifestation of the rich culture of Guyana.

Diwali, chracterised by lit diyas beautifully adorning homes and temples, reminds us of the powerful message of the occasion. The festival symbolises the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

Now a nationally-embraced public holiday, Diwali captures the attention — even participation — of thousands of Guyanese citizens, including non-Hindus. The festival threatens darkness in all its forms, and influences the emergence of an illuminat-

ed society in which there exists understanding, tolerance, love, and cordiality. Festivals like Diwali serve to rekindle hopes and expectations, and influence society in a positive direction.

This year’s Diwali carries even more significance, as our country and, indeed, the world are caught in the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic. As we recognise the massive toll the pandemic has extracted, we are imbued by the message of Diwali. We are reminded that even the darkest nights have an end, and mankind will once again succeed in this latest travail.

Absent from this year’s Diwali will be the colourful

and spectacular motorcade floats which attract thousands of Guyanese from all walks of life. While many Guyanese will certainly miss the event, we urge appropriate and safe celebrations, and for our people to abide by the COVID-19 protocols.

Our brief message, therefore, is for the celebrants and leaders alike let the diyas of the mind illuminate wisdom in all communities, in places of work and worship, in Government and Parliament, to lighten the poor man’s burdens through righteous policies and programmes.

This is the least, but the most-sought-after that the Union can hope for.

O

n this happy and joyous occasion of Deepavali/Diwali, or The Festival of Lights, the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) wishes to extend greetings to the members of our Hindu community, especially the religious leaders, and to all Guyanese.

2020 year of Guyanese observance of Diwali is occurring at a very important moment in the history of the nation, when there is a clear need for peace, understanding, stability and social cohesion. These values are common to all the religions in Guyana, and assume particular significance in respect to the

Deepavali celebrations. The idea of the triumph of light over darkness, symbolically and otherwise, carries a powerful message for the Guyanese nation.

Diwali occurs on the night of Amavasya (New Moon) in the month of Kartik, which is considered to be the darkest night on the Hindu calendar, and marks the return of Lord Rama after 14 years in exile. To welcome his return and to light his path, diyas were lit.

Diwali is a joyous celebration of inner light over spiritual darkness; knowledge over ignorance, and right over wrong. It is a festive restatement of the

Hindu belief that good ultimately triumphs over evil.

The PNCR has always been, and will always remain, respectful of Guyana’s cultural and religious diversity, and believes that our diversity has worked and will continue to work to the country’s advantage.

Guyana is a multi-religious, multi-ethnic and multi-cultural country. Our diversity is an asset, not a liability. Our Party is proud to belong to a society of many faiths.

As we celebrate Diwali, the PNCR remains committed to ensuring unity in diversity, so that our beloved country can experience real development and progress.

7

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

8 NEWS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

“Dream Realised” initiative

Another 150 Guyanese receive land titles, transports

Fears…

D

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal presenting Shliwarh Grant with his land title

Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry, Susan Rodrigues, presenting John Baboolall and Rohini Cyril with their documents

S

ome 150 Region Six residents on Friday received their land titles and transports when the Housing and Water Ministry’s Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) took its Dream Realised housing drive to East Berbice.

Minister Collin Croal told Berbicians at the University of Guyana’s Tain Campus that the initiative was in keeping with the Administration’s manifesto promise to expand the housing sector.

“It is our plan in the future to strengthen all of our regional offices, and that they provide the level of service that does not require you to travel to Georgetown for basic information and enquiries,” he is quoted by the Department of Public Information as saying.

Meanwhile, according to the DPI report, Minister within the Ministry Susan Rodrigues spoke of the importance of obtaining documentation for homeownership.

“For those who want to occupy their land and start to occupy their homes, we recognise that in order for you to do so, especially if you have to approach a lending institution or a bank, you need your title in your hand.”

For this reason, the new PPP/C Government has made distributing land titles that were stalled under the previous Administration a priority.

Residents were delighted to receive their documents.

A comprehensive approach was taken for the event, which included representatives from banks, utilities and insurance companies.

Dream Realised was first held on October 1617, 2020, at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence. At that event, 350 land titles and transports were distributed to Regions Three and Four residents.

The Dream Realised initiative will next be held in Region Five (MahaicaBerbice).

…and irrational fears id you know about “triskaidekaphobia”? If the answer is “no”, then let your Eyewitness inform you that it’s the fear of “Friday 13”! Now, growing up in Guyana, that wasn’t something we knew about, much less feared. We had enough “jumbles”, “Dutchmen”, “Moon Gazers” and assorted “Ole Higues” to keep us in a state of heightened panic at nights! But, as with the rest of our culture, ever since the end of WWII, we’ve been invaded by a plethora of Americanisms, ranging from the psychological (think of young people “cutting” themselves) to the phobic (think Halloween and Friday 13!).

The latter received its greatest fame (infamy?) via the Freddy Krueger horror films and their sequels and spinoffs!! “Heees back!” took on a whole new connotation after Freddy’s refusal to die and be done with! So yesterday was Friday 13, and as not to jinx the occasion (or raise the sleeping dead!) your Eyewitness gave the topic a (very) wide berth! “Better be safe than sorry” has always been his motto. But he did keep his eyes and ears wide open for the inevitable “bad thing” to happen.

And he wasn’t surprised when he got news that one of the parties that had popped out of the woodwork like jumble umbrellas before the last elections was in the throes of a serious meltdown. From the very beginning, your Eyewitness had his doubts about a party that named itself, “The New Movement”. A new movement is supposed to be presenting a new vision for the country; in other words, it’s an act of IMAGINATION. And this was the very best name they came up with to present themselves to the people? It seemed pretty lazy to your Eyewitness.

Anyhow, back to the meltdown, in which six of eight “Executives” handed in their resignations. Now, it’s very clear that all these Executives are very important to the survival of the “Movement”. It had to have taken all of them to convince their respective relatives to vote for them and accumulate the grand total of 124 votes they got on March 2! Seems that the gist of the gripe by the departed Executives was that they didn’t get appointed to any Government board; or, more pointedly, to the board of an energy company run by the fella who’d financed them.

They accused the latter of being a dictator and wanting to control everything! So, what do these neophytes think lobbyists and financiers donate money to political parties for? Seriously, are these people for real??

Or was it a case of being haunted by Freddy Krueger’s ghost. Sort of a twist of “the Devil made me do it!” line that’s been used for millennia! …of darkness While Freddy and his cohorts like Jason might be stirring fear in the breasts of the present generation, from the beginning of time, man (probably even Neanderthal Man) has feared the darkness. And it doesn’t surprise your Eyewitness. After all, the things that could spring out of the darkness and devour them were all too real - like saber tooth tigers and such like!

So even when we formed societies and lived in cities with walls to keep out the feared creatures, the collective fears remained buried deep in our psyches. Then there was the physical darkness that increased and increased during the onset of winter, which stirred fears that they would never see the sun again. And, of course, we know these are the prosaic origins of festivals like Diwali - light a light to keep out the fearful darkness.

But isn’t it so much more enjoyable when all the legends - such as the return of Prince Rama after recovering his wife Sita – are retold?

Even though we know that, ultimately, the demons are within us! …of a wet Christmas With the rainy season supposed to be in December/ January, the way the rains are coming down - and we’re only in November - it’s almost certain we’re going to have a very, very wet Christmas.

Get Santa an umbrella!

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

9

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

10

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

11

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

12

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

13 GA-FDD warns against repackaging medications NEWS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

are distributed in accordance with the Food and Drug Regulation of 1971.

The Department has sought over the years to address the compliance of pro-

Department has advised all importers/distributors, pharmacies and patent shops that all pharmaceuticals should be properly sealed in bottles/tubes and

Director of GA-FDD Dr Marlan Cole

T

Some of the repackaged medications

he Government Analyst-Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) seeks to ensure that all drugs and pharmaceuticals distributed and used in both the private and public healthcare systems are safe, efficacious, of the requisite quality and

prietors and pharmacists in relation to the trade, supply and sale of unregistered, improperly labelled (foreign language), improperly packaged and expired drugs and pharmaceuticals.

The Government Analyst Food and Drug

packages and must carry a patient information leaflet/ package insert translated in English.

The department said that it continues to observe instances where medications are repackaged in Ziploc bags, envelopes and

plastic cups displayed in cabinets for sale. This poor storage, the GA-FDD said, results in medicines being exposed to unsuitable storage conditions which may lead to deterioration, disintegration and ultimately loss of potency and incorrect expiration dates.

Proprietors were advised to ensure that all pharmaceuticals are not repackaged in Ziploc bags or

envelopes prior to customer’s purchase and collection via prescription; neither should they be kept in storage conditions of between 28 and 32 degrees celsius.

Failure to comply, the GA-FDD said, will result in enforcement actions by the department. According to the Food and Drug Act of 1971 Regulation 21(d): An inspector may at a reasonable time - seize and detain

for so long as may be necessary for the purpose of any examination, investigation, trial or inquiry, any article by means of or in relation to which he reasonably believes any provision of this Act has been contravened.

Likewise, the GA-FDD has also urged customers to inquire about the storage conditions and presentation of dispensed medicines.

14 NEWS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Probe launched into human-smuggling racket

T

he Home Affairs Ministry along with the Guyana Police Force (GPF) have set up a joint initiative to investigate the suspected human trafficking involving Haitians.

On Sunday at about 21:30h ranks of the GPF arrested 26 Haitians, who reportedly entered Guyana illegally. They were arrested in two separate Police operations – in a minibus along the Mabura Trail, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) and in a city hotel.

Those arrested are 10 males, nine females and seven children (two boys and five girls). They were

detained by Police after it was discovered that they had entered the country illegally via Suriname. Police also related that they were en route to neighbouring Brazil at the time of interception.

Following their arrest, the foreign nationals were taken to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), where they are being interrogated and face possible prosecution and deportation.

The Public Security Ministry has since said that an investigation has been launched, and the Haitians are being investigated as

part of a suspected human smuggling racket and Trafficking in Persons ring.

During the investigation, five persons were arrested and are currently in custody assisting with investigations. The minors are currently in protective care pending the outcome of the investigation.

Meanwhile, 24 foreign females were detained

by Police during a recent raid at popular nightspot Baroombar International.

Eight Dominicans, one Cuban and 15 Venezuelans were detained by Police.

“An investigation was launched into the alleged

Trafficking in Persons ring. As a result, investigation proved that the females from the Dominican Republic and Cuba all overstayed their time in Guyana,” the Public Security Ministry said on Friday.

According to the ministry, the females were interviewed and later released on bail, and are required to return to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).

Three suspects in the alleged TIP ring were detained by the police for questioning. Those include a bartender, security guard and a

dispatcher. They were also interviewed and released on bail. They too are required to report to CID. Back in 2019, former Citizenship Minister, Winston Felix had revealed that between January to July 2019, some 7000 Haitian nationals who entered Guyana were accounted for. While the issue of foreign nationals overstaying their time in the country is not a new one, the numbers have significantly increased since 2015.

In 2013, 188 Haitians arrived in Guyana with 99 departures and in 2014, 227 arrived, and 113 departed.

But in 2015, there were 770 arrivals and only 136

departures; in 2016, 722 arrivals with 451 departures; in 2017, 3515 arrivals and 291 departures and in 2018, 1237 arrivals with only 85 departures.

While the former Government has long contended that the immigrants may be leaving Guyana illegally for Brazil and Suriname and for French Guiana, there was no concrete move by them to monitor the situation or attempt to put a stop to the illegal movement of people.

These numbers of unaccounted Haitians had raised major concerns, especially for the then Parliamentary Opposition, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic – which had alleged that there might be a people-smuggling racket.

Felix had also stated that those unaccounted Haitians might be leaving through the “backtrack” (unauthorised ports) to go to other counties.

NEWS

15

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Diwali in Guyana

Guyana a shining example of religious tolerance – Indian High Commissioner

I

ndian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr KJ Srinivasa has lauded Guyanese for their display of oneness and religious tolerance.

He was at the time speaking with Guyana Times, on the significance of Diwali – which is being observed today.

“It (Diwali celebrations in Guyana) is very unique the religious tolerance, the oneness that Guyana has among the six communities.

All the other religions, each one participates in the other function. So, I take Guyana as an example of secularism, of tolerance, it is a shining beacon of such brotherhood.

I would always tell this to my friends back home and abroad that if you come to Guyana you feel that here.

It doesn’t matter if you are Muslim, Christian, Hindu each one is so intricate. The people love to be together,” the Indian diplomat said.

Diwali is celebrated throughout the world to ward off the darkness and welcome the light into our lives. Celebrating the triumph of good over evil and spanning five days each autumn, Diwali is considered by some to be the start of the New Year in the Hindu calendar.

In Guyana, the festival of lights was brought to Guyana in the 1800s by the first indentured people from India. The celebrations hold special signifi-

cance: wearing new clothes is a symbol of healthy souls in healthy bodies; the distribution of sweets signifies the importance of serving and sharing, and exchanging greeting cards denotes the goodwill of each other.

Keeping homes illuminat-

rance to knowledge with the very lighting of the diya – which brings light to the dark. The festival is the time for good over evil and brings about introspection and contemplation.

Charity serves as one of the main highlights of

is a priceless treasure,” Dr Srinivasa said.

Diwali though originated in the East, has become amalgamated into the wider diverse cultural tapestry of the West, particularly the Caribbean and North America, where most of the

India’s High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr KJ Srinivasa, speaking with Guyana Times senior journalist Vahnu Manikchand

ed inside and out is a practice meant to illuminate the path for Goddess Lakshmi when she visits.

“Diwali also signifies the starting of a new year and many people actually close their account books and start new account books on this day and they all worship goddess Lakshmi, goddess Kali as the case may be for health, wealth, prosperity,” the High Commissioner said.

He noted that in Hindu mythology, Diwali also signifies the path from igno-

the festival and the High Commissioner made a request of all Guyanese, in the time of COVID-19, to open their hearts and pockets and help those who they can help.

“I am happy to be in Guyana to celebrate Diwali…Guyana has always stayed true to the rich cultural link, the traditional links and what I feel personally when I [go] to functions, especially mandirs, is that the celebrations I hear those songs dating back to the 19th century it

Indians have come to settle during the colonial indentureship regime.

The word “Diwali” or “Deepavali” etymologically in their construct translate to mean “a row of light”.

Literally, an illumination that dispels darkness.

Metaphorically, darkness connotes ignorance, hostili-

ty, arrogance, injustice, illegality, inequity, intolerance and restriction to one’s fundamental freedoms, entitlement, choices and expressions.

Very unique to this celebration is the preparation for the lighting of the earthen lamps, the “diya”, a vessel that is primarily made of clay and uniquely shaped and baked into firmness.

Traditionally this has been the centre of the celebration, and still is, though local producers have suffered a decline in demand due to the rush for the technologically modified semi-electric lamps which do not really create the ambience and evoke the emotions relative to those created by the sight and interaction with the “real clay diyas”.

The High Commissioner explained that Diwali is usually a five-day celebration in Indian which starts with Dhanteras – that is two days before Lakshmi puja or the main Diwali celebration. Dhanteras is observed on triodasi, the dark half of the Hindu month of Kartik. A single diya or Yamdeep is lit to petition the Lord for longevity and good health.

Another legendary story says that Dhanvantari,

the Lord of Medicine or Ayurveda, who is another incarnation of Lord Vishnu, took birth on this day from the Samudra Manthan episode, a cosmic battle between gods and demons who were fighting for Amrit or holy nectar from ocean water that makes one immortal.

“On the first day of Dhanteras, people go and buy gold because they say it is very lucky if you buy gold on that day. It also commemorates the birthday of Dhanvantri which is the Indian god of health,” he said.

The second days is Narak Chaturdasi or Choti Diwali.

The day is associated with the defeat of pride, evil and arrogance. Narkasur – a demon – was vanquished and women freed from captivity

by Bhagwan Krishna.

The third day is the main event – Lakshmi puja and the day all the diyas are lit.

“In Indian mythology, the celebration of Diwali originates on the day that Lord Rama returns from Lanka after defeating Ravana,” Srinivasa said.

Goverdhan puja and bhai dooj is observed on the fourth and fifth day respectively.

16 NEWS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GMSA, diaspora group collaborate to support small businesses

T

he Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) and the United Guyana Diaspora Global Network (UGDGN) on November 6, 2020, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaboratively assist small and micro enterprises (SMEs) in the agriculture and agro-processing sector.

UGDGN is a non-profit organisation in the USA that brings Guyanese organisations and individuals together from around the world under one umbrella to work together in the best interest of development in Guyana.

Through the MoU, the diaspora group will work with the GMSA to provide support to SMEs in the areas of financing, market expansion, capacity building and knowledge transfer. The MoU came off the heels of the GMSA-Inter American Development (IDB) agri-

GMSA President Shyam Nokta

culture webinar held in September 2020.

Present at the webinar was President of the UGDGN, Wayne Forde and member Dr Kofi Dalrymple.

They spoke on the Diaspora’s involvement in agriculture.

The GMSA welcomed the involvement of UGDGN especially since it is adjunct to the Government of Guyana’s

UGDGN President Wayne Forde

recent commitment to engage the Guyanese Diaspora to assist in the development of Guyana.

Government recently committed that it would re-establish the Diaspora and Remigration Unit, through the Foreign Affairs Ministry and International Co-operation, to allow for a structured engagement

with the Diaspora aimed at strengthening relations and dialogue and to foster national development.

According to Forde, “The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the United Guyanese Diaspora Global Newark Corp and the Guyana Manufacturer Services Association affirms a commitment between the

Government of Guyana and interested stakeholders in the diaspora to build bridges for a brighter future for Guyana."

In addition, he emphasised the need for collaboration and cooperation between the Guyanese Diaspora and stakeholders in Guyana. The collaboration agreement will allow Diaspora members to invest, partner, mentor, transfer knowledge, technology, and increase market expansion for members of the GMSA. GMSA’s President Shyam Nokta welcomed the formalisation of the collaborative arrangement with UGDGN and thanked the organisation for its commitment to supporting national development and working with Guyana’s Private Sector by helping the GMSA to connect with the network, knowledge base and expertise of overseas-based Guyanese.

According to Nokta,

“This partnership is coming at a time when the GMSA is accelerating its efforts to support SMEs, in particular in the agriculture and agro-processing sector. The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed us to move to the digital space and as part of our successful UncapppeD Initiative, we have started the process to set up an online portal to help SMEs showcase their products and potential markets. “ “Through this mechanism, we can also work closely with the Diaspora on key areas identified under the MoU as well as explore a range of other possibilities of collaboration in other sectors. The GMSA remains committed to working closely with Guyanese at home and abroad and to supporting SMEs,” he added. The GMSA and UGDGN will convene a joint working group in late November to develop a programme of activities.

NEWS

17

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

US$1B cocaine bust

Police issue wanted bulletin for container shipper

T

he Guyana Police Force on Friday issued a wanted bulletin for 41-year-old Marlon Primo for questioning in relation to the 11.5 tonnes of cocaine intercepted in Belgium on October 27.

The last known addresses for the scrap metal dealer are Lot 69 Atlantic Ville, East Coast Demerara, and Norton and John Street, Lodge Housing Scheme, Georgetown.

The Brussel Times had reported that Belgian authorities had intercepted a vessel that allegedly left Guyana in October with the large quantity of cocaine.

Federal prosecutors told Belgian media that this is “the largest overseas drug bust ever, worldwide” with an estimated street value of €900 million or US$1.06 billion.

The drugs were disguised as scrap metal and placed inside a steel container, which was, in turn, packed into a sea container and loaded into a transatlantic vessel.

Following the bust, the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit had reported that two

Wanted: Marlon Primo

local shippers were detained and interrogated in connection with the shipment.

However, a few days later, several employees attached to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the driver of the container truck were arrested and grilled.

These arrests were made after it was unearthed that the images from the scanned container that had the cocaine were altered and, in some cases, deleted.

Those persons, Guyana Times understands, remain in custody as the hunt continues for Primo, who is believed to have absconded to

Suriname, continues.

The police are asking anyone with information that may lead to the arrest Primo to contact them on telephone numbers, 2266978, 225-8196, 911 or the nearest police station. All information will be treated with the strictest confidence.

18 NEWS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Special housing programme for military officers – President Ali P resident Dr Irfaan Ali has announced that his Administration will embark on a special programme in early 2021 to provide adequate housing for members of the military.

The Commander in Chief made this disclosure on Friday during a wreath-laying ceremony at the Veterans’ Monument, on the front lawns of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Base Camp Ayanganna.

He expressed that it is imperative for veterans and serving members of the military to be adequately rewarded for their contribution to the defence and development of the country.

Dr Ali also said that his Government acknowledges the diverse talent in the Guyana Defence Force and will utilise the skills in national development.

Meanwhile, President Ali was also in-

stalled as patron of the Guyana Veterans Legion. He made a donation of $1.5 million to the organisation on behalf of the Government.

Also present at the event were Prime Minister Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips, Chief of Staff of the GDF, Brigadier Godfrey Bess and National Security Advisor Captain Gerry Gouveia.

TURN TO PAGE 20

Officers of the GDF chatting with their Commander-in-Chief, President Ali

NEWS

19

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

E’bo teen killed on late father’s birthday

Dead: Sanesha Subrina Lall

By LaWanda McAllister

W

hile lying on her bed, crying and remembering her dead father on his birthday, 16-year-old Sanesha Subrina Lall of Richmond Housing Scheme, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), was knifed to death by her 34-year-old ex-lover.

Speaking with this publication, even as the family is still in shock, Sanesha’s older sister, Annasha Lall, said her sister woke up on Wednesday morning in a very depressed and sad mood, as she was reminiscing on the life of her dead father who died some two

years ago.

Wednesday, the same day the teen was stabbed to death, would have been her father’s 50th birthday.

Annasha Lall said her sister was crying uncontrollably all morning and it never occurred to them that it would have been the last time all the siblings would have been together.

The older sister recalled that at about 09:00h, she heard a vehicle stop in front of the house, and upon checking, they saw the suspect at their door. She said that the suspect, of Bounty Hall, Essequibo Coast, told her that he had something to tell them. According to the older Lall sister, she

was not properly dressed and so she went into her room to put on some clothes.

She related that while she was getting dressed, the man made his way into the home and she heard him calling for her sister but her sister did not answer.

Shortly after, the woman said she heard the father of two shouting “you very disrespectful”. She said she rushed into her sister’s room and it was then she saw the man whip out a Rambo knife from his waist and begin stabbing her sister about her body.

She said she tried to intervene, but the man threatened to kill her too.

“He just kept stabbing her, after he finishing stabbing her, he come out the

house and drove away..,” the sister recalled.

According to Annasha Lall, her sister and the 34-year-old man started their relationship in 2018.

However, she broke off the relationship with the man since she was moving to live with an uncle in the city.

Sanesha was living with her uncle in Georgetown, who promised to send her back to school, since she dropped out of school when both of her parents died.

She moved back to the Essequibo Coast earlier this year.

She said she has no knowledge about what led to the man killing her sister.

“She really wanted to [go] back to school…. she wanted to go to TI (Government

Technical Institute) after the COVID (COVID-19) finish and learn something so that she can get a job…”, she said.

In 2016, Sanesha’s mother, Anita Persaud, died leaving her and her other siblings motherless. Less than two years later, their father also died after losing his battle with cancer.

Since then, the teen and her siblings have been battling to keep their heads above water as their financial situation deteriorated.

Following the stabbing, Lall was rushed to the Suddie Public Hospital, where she was pronounced dead on arrival. Her body was taken to the hospital’s mortuary to await a post-mortem examination.

Police found the suspect

at Better Hope Backdam, Essequibo Coast. He told the ranks that he had consumed a poisonous substance. He was admitted under guard at the Suddie Hospital.

According to Police, the suspect remains hospitalised with no change in his condition.

Nevertheless, Annasha told this publication that even though the family has their struggles they were happy together and want justice for their sister.

“I want justice for my sister, she was so young, so innocent, she had a good life ahead of her and now she is gone”, the grieving sister said.

Investigations are ongoing.

20 NEWS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Special housing programme...

FROM PAGE 18

President Irfaan Ali standing in front of the Veterans’ Monument, Base Camp Ayanganna, on Friday after laying a wreath there

21

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

22

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

23

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Fortune 500 firms interested in investing in Guyana …“our long-awaited transformation” on verge of unfolding – Finance Minister

Senior Minister with responsibility for finance, Dr Ashni Singh

S

atellite imagery, security services, as well as housing and urban development are just some areas that major US companies have expressed an interest in investing in Guyana.

This announcement was made by US Ambassador to Guyana Sarah-Ann Lynch, who noted that Fortune 500 companies – just last week – inquired about investment opportunities here.

“I get calls from US companies regularly. Just last week, I met with the Business Council for International Understanding, a USbased organisation founded under President Eisenhower, whose members include Fortune 500 companies interested in what Guyana has to offer.

“The company representatives inquired about a broad range of investment opportunities including investment in the oil and gas sector, housing and urban development, environmental resiliency, satellite imagery and security services, just to name a few,” Ambassador Lynch revealed during the opening ceremony of the Annual General Meeting of the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) Guyana.

The term “Fortune 500” refers to a list of 500 of the largest companies in the United States compiled

by Forbes magazine every year, ranked by their annual revenues for their respective fiscal years. To be a Fortune 500 company is widely considered to be a mark of prestige.

The current top ten Fortune 500 companies are Walmart, Amazon, ExxonMobil, Apple, CVS Health, Berkshire Hathaway, UnitedHealth Group, McKesson, AT&T, and AmerisourceBergen.

According to Ambassador Lynch, the US wants to be Guyana’s “top trading partner and partner of choice”.

“From infrastructure to energy, from healthcare to agriculture, the future of US investment here is just beginning,” she expressed.

“Over the next year, we look forward to partnering with AmCham on webinars in all of these areas. We

look forward to US companies competing fairly and transparently in tender processes, as we want to remain Guyana’s top trading partner and partner of choice,” she added.

In this regard, the US Ambassador called on AmCham to continue to play its part in fostering business relations between the two countries.

“Your expertise in the local market and knowhow are critical elements for any investor who wants to work with Guyana.

Your advocacy for fair and transparent procurement processes, your adherence to environmental laws and fair hiring practices, your mentoring of young entrepreneurs, this all matters. And it all contributes to a bright and prosperous Guyana,” she noted.

In further underlining the magnitude of interest by the US in Guyana, the American diplomat recalled the September 2020 visit by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo as well as the visit by the delegation from the Development Finance Corporation (DFC).

She also recalled that AmCham, two weeks after the DFC visit, hosted a follow-up webinar for over 60 businesses with the DFC. “This was to ensure the Private Sector knows how the DFC provides project financing through public-private partnerships and other mechanisms. We at the Embassy are happy to connect the Private Sector with the DFC for these financing opportunities,” Ambassador Lynch posited.

In further expanding on the topic of USGuyana business relations, the envoy explained that the US Embassy is a US Commercial Service partner post with the US Department of Commerce, which means that they can connect investors with Guyanese businesses.

“We also help facilitate requests for Guyanese businesses seeking to invest in the United States.

Interested in opening a US franchise here? We are your first stop. Need assistance importing US products and materials? We are here for you,” she explained.

Furthermore, she noted that this year, the US will be opening an “American Corner” at the National Library, which, she said, has already expressed interest in working with AmCham on financial literacy issues for young people.

Long-awaited transformation

Meanwhile, senior Minister with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh acknowledged that there has been a strong and special bond between the US and Guyana which has

porter has generated unprecedented interest by American companies in our country, not just in the oil and gas sector but also across the entire spectrum of productive activity.”

long-awaited transformation is on the verge of unfolding.”

He explained that “becoming an oil producer presents us with an opportunity, and with the

“This is not surprising given the inevitable positive externalities that oil and gas production can bring to the rest of the economy,” he added.

Dr Singh explained that, beyond the COVID pandemic, the prospects for Guyana are “historically bright and the

means, to improve the well-being of the Guyanese people to realise the longstanding aspirations of our country.”

Dr Singh outlined that the Government’s overall aim is, in the shortest possible time, build a modern Guyana, with world-class infrastructure that un-

US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch

manifested through traditional economic relations, such as official development assistance through bilateral and multilateral channels, trade, as well as financial flows such as migrant remittances from the large Guyanese diaspora in the US. Against this backdrop, Dr Singh noted that “Guyana’s new status as an oil producer and ex-

locks the vast potential of the country’s economy.

“In addition to ensuring all the required supportive infrastructure, our plan includes ensuring availability of a highly-skilled workforce, and State institutions that encourage and facilitate, rather than hinder and frustrate, the operations of the Private Sector. In this regard, reducing bureaucracy and removing bottlenecks to doing business will be an important pillar of our institutional reforms,” he stated.

The Finance Minister said he will soon be engaging with AmCham to discuss its membership’s contribution to the country’s economic transformation as well as to discuss ways in which the organisation can work with the Government to ensure that their shared vision for Guyana is realised.

24 NEWS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Single mother tells of struggles, sacrifices to give daughters better life …as President Ali fulfils wish of young girl to seek an education

A

rmed with courage and determination, eight-year-old Tashmini Sewah convinced her mother to journey to New Amsterdam, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), to meet with President Dr Irfaan Ali with faltering hopes that they would even get to interact with him.

When they arrived at the Office of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) at Vryman’s Erven – where the Head of State was hosting an outreach – the mother and daughter duo was fervent in their quest to get an audience with the President.

Their turn finally came around and little Tashmini wasted no time in telling President Ali of her struggles in accessing an education.

Tashmini is a student of the Port Mourant Primary School, however, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, she has

not been able to properly continue learning since she has no electronic device or access to the internet to benefit from online classes. From time to time, she would use her neighbour’s phone and internet but for the most part, she was unable to benefit from online learning.

She told the Head of State of her struggles and her desire to gain an education so she can become a doctor.

Within minutes, President Ali fulfilled the little girl’s wish, delivering to her a tablet.

“I feel very happy,” single mother, Shelly Drugen told Guyana Times during a telephone interview on Friday.

Drugen explained that she never expected that her daughter’s wish would have been so promptly fulfilled.

Her next goal is to find a way to secure internet access so her daughter can fully ben-

efit from the device.

“As soon as I ketch mi hand, I gonna try to get lil internet to put on the tablet to do the schoolwork,” she explained, noting that life has not always been easy for her small family of three.

Drugen’s elder daughter, who is 18 years old, also needed an electronic device to continue learning. However, when they were making the trip to see the President, her other daughter was staying with her grandmother in Canje, New Amsterdam, where she would utilise a phone and internet service.

The 18-year-old is currently studying for the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) since she did not perform satisfactorily the first time she wrote the exams.

Notwithstanding, Drugen is grateful for the Head of State’s intervention, noting

Eight-year-old Tashmini Sewah telling President Irfaan Ali about her educational challenges during his outreach in Region Six (East Berbice Corentyne)

that it will go a long way in helping the family.

“I gonna now try to help myself,” she explained, noting that she has struggled and will continue to struggle to ensure she provides a better life for her two girls.

Reflecting on her life just some two years ago, the single mother recalled working three jobs just to make ends meet.

“It was a very tough struggle, it was very, very hard,” she expressed.

At the time, she was living with her mother in Canje.

During the day, she worked as a maid and in the evening, she worked at a restaurant.

After she clocked off from work at nights, she would do laundry to earn a little extra money.

For Drugen, it was ex-

tremely difficult having to juggle the jobs and take care of her children, particularly ensuring that little Tashmini made it to and from school.

She recalled having just one to two hours of sleep on a daily basis. “I sacrifice myself a lot,” she explained.

After saving up, the single mother finally managed to build her own house at Port Mourant, which they moved into sometime in 2018. At the time, the house was not complete. “We had no light, no water, no door, no window, but we still stay inside,” she explained.

When they moved to Port Mourant, Drugen said she started working at a food establishment. When the pandemic hit, she was without a job.

It was only three months

ago that she decided to start selling chicken. However, she noted that business is tough since a lot of people are doing the same venture.

According to the single mother, her daughters’ fathers have not been very helpful in taking care of them.

When Tashmini was three months old, her mother and father separated. “Since then, he never pay attention and do anything for her. We at court right now,” she explained.

Her elder daughter’s father is currently remarried and living in New York.

Notwithstanding, Drugen said she will continue to work hard to ensure her daughters have the foundation for a good life, starting with their education. (Devina Samaroo)

NEWS

25

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

COVID-19 provided opportunity for local firms to embrace technology – AmCham …to push for US companies to aid technology transfer

N

oting that businesses must start embracing technology to improve its operations, Chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) Guyana, Zulfikar Ally announced that – in the coming year – the organisation will push for American firms to aid in the transfer of technology to the local Private Sector.

He explained that, beyond the COVID-19 pandemic, local businesses must embrace the use of technology to become more competitive.

“While the pandemic has put a damper on the way we would have gone about our business, it also provided us with the opportunity to embrace technology. A necessary platform that the Private Sector in Guyana must embrace to be competitive in the future. “…It is our goal in the coming year to encourage our members, especially US Firms to make it a priority to aid in the transfer of technology to the local private sector, to work with them collaboratively to enhance their capabilities and skills, and train Guyana’s talented human resources in the technological and transformative ways of working and conducting business,” Ally expressed during the Annual General Meeting of AmCham.

He highlighted that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many organisations – including AmCham – have had to start embracing technology in order to keep their operations alive.

“AmCham immediately embarked on a series of webinars to continue to keep our membership and the general population aware of COVID. We have since embraced the use of technology in the way we conduct our business. Our

mobile app to efficiently and effectively communicate with its members on all matters related to the Chamber, its activities and membership information.

Additionally, the organisation’s website has just been re-launched to provide real-time updates and information for members and non-members alike.

Apart from technology, the AmCham Chair emphasised the need for international best practices, com-

Board meetings and that of the various committees including those with Cabinet Ministers were done via electronic means,” Ally stated.

In a bid to become more technologically-inclined, he noted too that AmCham is currently retooling its

pliances and certifications among local businesses.

“It provides a disadvantage to local companies to participate in contracts especially in the oil and gas sector and it is also a great deal of frustration for investors who are bound by policies and internation-

al best practices to ensure they only hire firms that are in compliance with these requirements,” he explained.

As such, Ally said the Chamber has started to put plans in place and will have to work with its partners to bridge that gap between its American members and those that are Guyaneseowned.

In fact, he revealed that an AmCham member has already been leading at the forefront in training, facilitating and encouraging companies to get the relevant certifications.

In this regard, Ally said, “we will encourage more initiative like these and we would like to work with the Government of Guyana to ensure that adequate measures and opportunities are put in place to accommodate this for the business community across the country.”

On this note, he made it clear that the Private Sector “depends on a responsive Government machinery”, adding that “and the Government expects in return a strong Private Sector, willing to take risks

Zulfikar Ally

and contribute towards nation-building and playing their part in improving the lives of every Guyanese”.

And, according to Ally, AmCham members are all ready to take part in the growth of Guyana’s economy.

“As we bring the curtains down on 2020, AmCham Guyana would like to assure the Government of Guyana that you can consider us a partner in development. We will continue to promote those values that we hold dearly such as the rule of law, governance and security and of course the principles of democracy, without which business cannot flourish and devel-

opment becomes impaired,” he expressed.

He added that AmCham intends to work in a meaningful and collaborative way with the Government, other Private Sector organisations and civil society to ensure that democratic principles continue to flourish, that equal and fair treatment are meted out to all and that the system for remedies provides certainty for all.

“This is the only way that trade and investment can flourish a while at the same time bringing development to all,” he said.

“Guyana’s future is bright and promising; every Guyanese have the potential to enjoy a quality of life that can be the envy of the region,” Ally added.

He noted too that Guyana is also now poised to be a leader in every aspect within the Caribbean region and that AmCham will “be there” to work with the Guyana Government to help those “dreams and aspirations” of Guyanese to become a reality, “sooner rather than later”.

26 NEWS Regional administrations must break down barriers of governance – President Ali SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

…announces establishment of rapid response technical teams

P

resident Irfaan Ali has emphasised the importance of forging better cooperation between citizens and the Government, calling on the regional administrations across the country to play their part in breaking down the barriers that separate the two.

He made his pronouncement on Friday during an outreach in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), where he met individually with a number of citizens and heard their concerns at the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) office in New Amsterdam.

The issues raised ranged from access to electricity, water, land allocation concerns and drainage issues. The President was accompanied by officials from the Guyana Power and Light (GPL), National Insurance Scheme (NIS), National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), Lands and Surveys, the Ministry of Health and the Guyana Police Force among others, during the outreach.

According to President Ali, the regional administrations, particularly in Berbice, have the capacity at the Local Government level to deal with the issues that were raised.

“We have a lot of expertise at the regional level. What we have to do is to have more coordination and break down the barriers of governance,” he posited.

The Head of State announced during the outreach that a rapid response technical team will be set up in all 10 administration regions across Guyana to cater to the needs of the residents.

“In every single region, we’ll be creating a rapid response team. This will comprise of representation from the different agencies, chaired by the Regional Chairman.

This team will be responsible for the following up of issues at the community level and will ensure that these issues are resolved,” Ali said.

He further urged the officials and representatives from the various Ministries and State agencies that were at the outreach to guarantee impartiality and fairness when dealing with the concerns raised.

“You have to respect the people and the issues which are raised…You are not dealing with personalities; you are dealing with issues,” he as-

President Irfaan Ali meeting with residents of Berbice during an outreach which addressed numerous issues faced by residents

serted.

The President explained to the gathering that similar outreach exercises will also be conducted in other parts of the country.

“Today we are not here to look at issues for two or three weeks, we are here to resolve problems. For the ordinary people on the ground, there will be a greater connection between the people and the Government and greater connection between the agencies and the people. There will be a better understanding of concerns and problems that the people are facing on the ground,” he stressed.

After meeting with citizens, the Head of State told reporters that if there is a less bureaucratic mode of communication from the level of the regional administration, and agencies such as the NDIA, the Lands and Surveys Commission, NIS, and Central Housing and Planning Authority then many of the issues can be resolved.

“But from what you hear, it is the long delays in addressing some of these issues. It is also a communications problem… So, there is a great need for public awareness about what is happening in the various agencies,” he said.

According to President Ali, among the issues raised, the most alarming is the fact that many persons have been stripped of their ownership of lands.

In one instance, Chandramattie Drepaul, who has had a land issued since President Ali was the Minister of Housing, explained that the land that she had bought was used to build a school by the State. She had requested that the money she paid be returned to her. However, since then, she has not been refunded.

Though she was asked

by Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) CEO Sherwyn Greaves at the outreach if she wanted to be relocated, Drepaul refused and insisted that her money be returned.

President Ali listened closely to the woman and instructed that the CH&PA deal with the issue.

Also, during the outreach, several groups from the four Polders in Black Bush, Corentyne, voiced their concerns for more structured resi-

dential areas, which are away from the farming communities.

This issue has been handed over to the Lands and Surveys Commission.

Meanwhile, 63-year-old Wendy Adams, who has been without electricity for a number of years, was one of the first persons that were able to sit before the Head of State in the RDC Boardroom and air her concerns.

“I was so happy and glad that I will be getting through after so many years without current. I have a house and everything and finished it couple years ago, but I have

been without light for decades. Right now, I am so happy that I was able to speak to President Ali in person. I couldn’t sleep last night because I was so anxious and I even woke up this morning excited,” the woman exclaimed.

She said that this is the first time that she was able to speak to someone in authority concerning her woes, after being given the “royal runaround” for years.

“I can’t explain to you how much I am happy right now.

Never in my life have I ever been able to do that. I am just so glad,” the woman said while praising President Ali for or-

ganising the outreach, which she dubbed as “one of a kind.”

Nevertheless, Ali said that his Administration has not completed the structural composition of Government at both the national and regional levels.

He also indicated that while Government is currently implementing the 2020 Emergency Budget, they are also working simultaneously on the 2021 Budget, programming resources for the upcoming fiscal year.

Meanwhile, with the distribution of the $25,000 COVID-19 Relief Grant to households currently ongoing

in the East Berbice-Corentyne region, President Ali also addressed concerns raised with this programme.

While the grant is being distributed per household, a “pink slip” is given out in cases where there is more than one family residing at an address.

That slip will allow for those families that did not get the grant to receive their $25,000 grant after a verification process.

“So, after that verification process, then we will finalise the list [of] those persons [who] will also receive the grant,” the President explained. (G4)

Newest oil producer

Guyana taking steps to woo diaspora to return home

W

ith Guyana now being one of the most attractive investment destinations in the world due to massive oil and gas discoveries, the Government has begun taking active steps to make it easier for the country’s large diaspora to return to their homeland.

The Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ministry recently announced that it has launched a remigration brochure, which will seek to fill the information and other support gaps, which have prevented persons in the past from starting the process to return “home”.

Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud said that the Ministry is looking at ways to improve services by making it more convenient for persons who wished to come back to Guyana to do so with a great deal of ease.

“One of the gaps we noticed is persons were unclear on how they can go about accessing the remigration scheme. Immediately, we developed what we call a ‘remigration brochure’ that is now available on the internet, but also at all our missions and embassies [which provides] the basic information they need to know,” Persaud was quoted by DPI as saying.

Persaud, also a former Minister within the previous PPP/C Administration, explained that the process in-

volves the Ministry and the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA). The Ministry will process the application and through the Minister’s Office, make recommendations. The GRA examines the tax exemptions aspect, as provided by law.

Additionally, the simplified process allows persons to track their applications as they are processed, and to see the exemptions for which they may qualify.

“Those are some of the kinks that we are currently working out because there is a lot of enthusiasm. There is a lot of interest in persons remigrating and we want them to benefit from the scheme that is provided for by the Government,” he outlined.

He further noted that the Ministry is working with the International Office for Migration, which is finalising a strategy that looks at remigration and the diaspora to make remigration more lucrative.

However, Persaud said the current remigrant scheme is already an attractive one which not only targets families but also students studying abroad.

The Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in a recent report stated that Guyana’s emigration rate, which skyrocketed in the 1960s due to the hardships created by the then People’s National Congress (PNC)

Government, is one of the highest in the world, numbering about 30,000 annually.

The report “The Guyanese Diaspora” which was authored by Michael Matera, Linnea Sandin and Maripaz Alvarez, provided a comprehensive analysis of the Guyanese Diaspora and suggested a framework within which this valuable asset could be utilised for the benefit of both the diaspora and their home country.

According to the report, the first-generation immigrant Guyanese Diaspora today is estimated to be around 550,000 worldwide, not including their descendants.

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration has expressed its desire to work collaboratively with the diaspora, stating that they too have a stake in the development of their homeland.

“We must welcome back to their homeland our diaspora who played such a positive and constructive role in defence of our democracy,” President Dr Irfaan Ali had said when he was sworn in on August 2.

“My Government intends to embrace Guyanese abroad as we enlist them here at home,” Dr Ali had asserted.

The major oil discoveries have now caused Guyana to be placed in the international spotlight and many Guyanese in the diaspora

have expressed an interest to return to work or invest here.

Chief Economist for Smith’s Research & Gradings, Scott B MacDonald recently expressed that Guyana’s economy is tipped to perform extremely well, and ride through the COVID-19 pandemic in better shape than practically any other economy on the planet.

MacDonald, who is also a Senior Associate at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) and a Research Fellow at Global Americans, noted that Guyana is no longer “the isolated country on the northeastern shoulder of South America it once was”.

“The combination of massive oil discoveries; improved global communications; and a better-connected diaspora in North America, the United Kingdom and the Caribbean means that Guyana is no longer on the outskirts of the global economy,” the expert had written in an opinion piece published by Caribbean News Global.

The mass exodus of Guyanese had started in the early 1960s under the Forbes Burnham dictatorship when the economy was facing total collapse. There were no proper jobs; social services were almost non-existent, and there was a sense of hopelessness all over the country.

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020

27

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS Oil falls on rising Libya output, coronavirus surge

O

il prices fell about 2 per cent on Friday, pressured by swelling output from Libya and fears that rising coronavirus infections may slow the recovery in the global economy and fuel demand.

Hopes for a vaccine kept crude futures on track for a second straight weekly gain.

Brent crude fell 75 cents, or 1.7 per cent, to settle at US$42.78 a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures fell 99 cents, or 2.4 per cent, to end the session at US$40.13 a barrel. For the week, both notched gains of more than 8 per cent.

Libyan oil production has risen to 1.2 million barrels per day (bpd), a Libyan oil source told Reuters, up from the 1.0 million bpd reported on Nov 7 by the country’s National Oil Corp.

Signs of rising production in the US added to bearish sentiment. US oil rigs rose 10 to 236 this week, according to Baker Hughes data, their highest since May. Also pressuring prices, US Government data showed crude inventories rose by 4.3 million barrels last week.

Analysts had expected a draw of 913,000 barrels.

“In essence, some of the feel-good factor from the Pfizer vaccine has worn off and disappointing EIA figures have created a bit of a downward correction,” Harry Tchilinguirian, head of commodity research at BNP Paribas, said.

“However, OPEC+ is prepared to tweak its production and we’re still waiting for the trial results of other vaccines that may be easier to distribute since they won’t need such cold storage.”

New coronavirus infections in the United States and elsewhere are at record levels and tightening restrictions should lead to fuel demand recovering more slowly than many had hoped.

WTI and Brent contracts jumped this week after data showed an experimental COVID-19 vaccine being developed

by Pfizer Inc and Germany’s BioNTech was 90 per cent effective.

But on Thursday, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said global oil demand was unlikely to get a significant boost from vaccines until well into 2021.

“It’s no surprise that the market is trimming the price gains today as realities for crude supply and demand are grim, while daily new COVID-19 cases in the US are setting new records for the third-straight day,” Bjornar Tonhaugen, head of oil markets at Rystad, said.

“Our crude and liquids balances suggest oil prices need to go lower before they go higher.”

Analysts say tougher restrictions on mobility to deal with sky-rocketing coronavirus cases mean the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies may hesitate to loosen output curbs as planned in January.

The group known as OPEC+ is due to hold a Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee next week, which will give some indications of what the producers may decide at the next ministerial meeting on Dec 1.

Algeria’s Energy Minister said this week that OPEC+ could extend the group’s current oil production cuts into 2021 or deepen them further if required. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Tropical Storm Iota forms southeast of Jamaica

T

ropical Storm Iota has formed southeast of Jamaica and is expected to move westward and south of Jamaica throughout the weekend, before approaching Central America on Monday.

According to the Meteorological Service of Jamaica, the extreme outer bands of Iota are expected to produce cloudy and windy conditions across the island, with periods of showers and isolated thunderstorms mainly across southern and northeastern parishes Saturday after-

noon through to Monday.

The service added that sea conditions are expected to deteriorate significantly during this period, especially for inshore and offshore areas of the south coast.

The forecast this morning is isolated showers across eastern parishes, otherwise partly cloudy, and in the afternoon, widely scattered showers mainly across southern and northeastern parishes, but otherwise mostly cloudy and windy. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

PM Johnson’s Brexit “brain” Cummings to leave Downing Street

D

ominic Cummings, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s most powerful adviser, will stop working for Downing Street in mid-December as Johnson tries to reset his premiership after a series of failures in tackling the coronavirus pandemic.

Cummings, expected to stay until around Christmas, was pictured by a Reuters photographer clutching a box as he left Johnson’s office in No 10 Downing Street on Friday evening.

The BBC, Sky News and other media outlets reported that Cummings had left his role for good, abruptly

Dominic Cummings, special advisor for Britain’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson, leaving 10 Downing Street, in London, Britain, November 13, 2020

reducing the sway of Brexit hardliners in Johnson’s Government.

But No 10 said Cummings would continue to work for Johnson until mid-December, although it was unclear in what capacity and whether he would return to the building.

Johnson is grappling with factional fighting over the future direction of the Government just as he struggles to contain Europe’s deadliest COVID-19 outbreak, establish a rapport with US President-elect Joe Biden and master the delicate diplomacy of a last-minute Brexit trade agreement.

Cummings, who masterminded the 2016 Brexit referendum vote and Johnson’s

2019 landslide election win, had told the BBC that he wanted to be largely redundant by the end of this year, once Britain has left informal membership of the European Union.

Johnson is under pressure from Conservative parliamentarians to recast his Administration and get a grip of the pandemic which is decimating the economy.

The exit of Johnson’s influential right-hand man marks one of the most significant changes to the Prime Minister’s inner circle so far: Cummings was cast by some as Johnson’s “brain”.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Ethiopia Tigray crisis: UN warns “war crimes” may have happened

R

eports of the mass killing of civilians in Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region “would amount to war crimes” if confirmed, the UN human rights chief has warned.

Michelle Bachelet called for an inquiry into reports that scores and maybe hundreds of people had been stabbed and hacked to death in one town.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has accused forces loyal to Tigray’s leaders of the massacre.

Its officials have denied involvement.

Abiy said that fighters backing Tigray’s ruling party, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), went on the

Troops loyal to the Government ride in trucks to face the forces of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front

rampage after federal troops had “liberated” the western part of Tigray, “brutally” killing innocent civilians in MaiKadra, a town in the SouthWest Zone of Tigray.

Witnesses blamed forces loyal to TPLF for Monday’s killings - first reported by hu-

man rights group Amnesty International.

If confirmed, this would be the first large-scale killing of civilians in the fighting between Government forces and the TPLF which broke out on November 4.

Getting information about the clashes is hard because phone lines and internet ser-

vices are down.

In a statement, the Tigray government denied that its forces were behind Monday’s killings.

There has been long-standing tension between Ethiopia’s Government and the TPLF, which controls Tigray, the country’s northernmost state. The tension has boiled over into military clashes, including airstrikes by federal forces.

Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister Demeke Mekonnen said on Friday that the military operation was going on as expected and would end “in a very short period of time”.

He added that order had to be restored and “criminals caught” before dialogue was possible. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Dozens wounded in Peru as protesters and Police Chile Health Minister hopes clash amid political crisis Biden victory will help

A

t least 27 people have been wounded in clashes between Police and protestors as thousands of Peruvians took to the streets to demonstrate against the dismissal of President Martin Vizcarra, Police and rights groups said on Friday.

The unrest over the last four nights, and other more peaceful protests in the capital Lima and other cities, are piling pressure on a fragmented Congress and the new government of President Manuel Merino.

On Thursday night, Police used tear gas and rubber bullets against protesters, some of whom threw rocks at police and destroyed store windows and cash machines. The demonstrations were among the largest in two decades in Peru.

Vizcarra, a politically unaffiliated centrist who is popular with voters, was ousted on Monday in an impeachment trial over allegations he received bribes - ac-

cusations he denies.

Merino, a member of the centre-right Popular Action party who had been the head of Congress, swore in his new Cabinet on Thursday and called for calm.

Some carried banners comparing Merino to the coronavirus pandemic and saying he did not represent them.

Vizcarra oversaw an anti-graft campaign that led to frequent clashes with Congress in a country that has a history of political upheaval and corruption.

A judge on Friday ordered Vizcarra not to leave Peru while prosecutors now investigate the allegations against him.

The crisis precipitated by his departure has rattled Peru, the world’s no 2 copper producer, and seen its sol currency scraping record lows. It fell again on Friday and the central bank said it would keep intervening to help stabilise the currency.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

avoid vaccine “trade war”

J

oe Biden’s win in the US election is raising hopes in Latin America that a war over medical supplies at the start of the COVID-19 outbreak will not be repeated once vaccines are approved for use, Chile’s Health Minister told Reuters on Friday.

Enrique Paris said he believed Biden’s leadership would allow for countries to present a more “united” front against the pandemic, avoiding the commercial battles by nations including the United States to secure ventilators, masks and personal protective equipment seen earlier this year.

He said Chile had to charter or send military planes to pick up supplies and keep flight plans secret.

Despite the “very good news” this week from Pfizer that its vaccine had proved 90 per cent effective in late-stage trials, Paris said Latin America - which

topped global charts for COVID cases and deaths between for several months up to August - should prepare for a second wave like the one current ravaging Europe.

Chile has signed up for 7.6 million doses through the global vaccine distribution scheme COVAX, co-led by the GAVI vaccines alliance and the World Health Organisation.

Paris said Chile had paid extra to be able to pick the vaccines it received from COVAX. But he added that he had proposed, and received backing from his fellow Latin American and Caribbean Health Ministers, to push for all countries to be treated equally under COVAX. Paris said the Pfizer vaccine represented one option for Chile’s vaccination campaign but that the country had sought to diversify to assure a steady supply.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

28

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020

guyanatimesgy.com

ARCHIE

ARIES (March 21April 19)

Pick your battles wisely. Look inward and consider the best way to handle an impasse with someone you live with or work alongside.

Channel your energy into physical activity.

Make personal adjustTAURUS ments that will help you ad(April 20vance. Use your connections, May 20) intelligence and experience.

A partnership looks promising if you discuss what you both have to offer and how best to use your skills.

DILBERT

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

CANCER (June 21July 22)

PEANUTS

CALVIN AND HOBBES

SUDOKU

Pay more attention to how you present yourself to others. Appropriate attire and a good reputation will help you impress someone important. Play to win.

Romance is encouraged.

Set high standards and goals. Refuse to let trivial matters upset you or stand in your way. Do your best to make a difference in your community. Your words will help someone in need.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Take better care of your home, family and reputation. Face facts, implement routines, and add structure and fitness into your schedule.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

You’ve got everything under control, so don’t mess with what’s working.

A positive change is heading your way. Being fully prepared will promote high returns.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Stick to what and who you know. Refuse to get into an altercation with someone who will never share your beliefs or values. Set the record straight regarding your feelings and intentions.

SCORPIO

Take the path that leads to peace of mind. Precision and attention to detail will be instrumental in reaching your goal. Protect your physical well-being. Avoid excess and risk.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

Take pride in what you do and focus on the things that make you feel good about yourself. It’s OK to do something you enjoy and to live life your way. Romance is in the stars.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

You’ll come up with exciting ways to change your living arrangements or use your space to pursue something that brings you joy. A change of plans will end up benefiting you.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

Avoid anyone trying to persuade you to do something that will cost you financially or emotionally. Stay focused on what’s worked best for you in the past, and you’ll avoid making a mistake.

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

You’ll make personal gains if you stick to your game plan and bring about the changes that will improve your personal life. Sharing expenses with someone close to you will turn out well.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020

29

“WI could move on from Russell, says CWI Chief Selector Roger Harper – hints that emerging talent could push explosive all-rounder out T

alented all-rounder Andre Russell’s place in the West Indies Team could be in doubt in the future after a number of injuries and invitation declines.

Russell was invited to join the team for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, but declined, claiming he needed space

to ‘clear his head’ after having to deal with playing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

That is the position with Russell, according to Cricket West Indies (CWI) Chief of Selectors Roger Harper.

Russell last represented the West Indies on tour of Sri Lanka earlier this year, and his scintillating 40 runs from 14 deliveries saw him named man-ofthe-match. Even with such

brilliant performances to his credit, Harper insisted he was keeping an eye on things, and that emerging talent could make it difficult for the 32-year-old to continually be selected “if they take their opportunities”.

“I think (that) as we move forward, we will look at all situations, all players, and determine whether we need to continue to look at those players, contin-

ue to consider those players, or we need to move on,” Harper told members of the media from the team’s training camp in New Zealand in referAndre Russell

ence to the situation.

“A lot of things are determined by how well the team performs, how well the players in the team at the time perform, and the

success of the team. I think if players in the team perform exceedingly well, then it will make it difficult for those that are not on the tour to get back into the team.

So, a lot of

things will be taken into consideration as we move forward.” (Adapted from a Sportsmax article)

“He needs to focus on his batting”

T

wo members of the Jamaica football delegation currently in Saudi Arabia have tested positive for COVID-19 following PCR tests adminis-

tered on Thursday. One is a player, and the other is a member of the technical

staff. Two other players are under investigation.

All four, who had been in quarantine for 48 hours with the full group, have now been isolated, and the proto-

cols set by the Saudi Arabia Football Federation (SAFF) are expected to be put into

effect.

The protocols dictate that all confirmed cases - either symptomatic or asymptomatic - will be isolated in the same hotel on a different wing or section away from the bulk of the rest of the team. Based on medical advice, possible isolation in a different hotel or medical facility is not ruled out.

If a patient is asymptomatic, he or she will be constantly assessed by the JFF Head Doctor, and the patient will be allowed to travel after a negative PCR test, or based on a medical assessment and local authority health protocols.

If the patient shows symptoms of COVID-19 and requires further medical care, he or she would be transferred to a designat-

– Windies’ chief of selectors explains why Brathwaite dropped as vice-captain

ed hospital. Any confirmed case has to be retested after three days of the disappearance of the last symptom, to assess his or eligibility for travel.

The Jamaican delegation is now in Saudi Arabia preparing to play two international friendlies against the host on November 14 and 17.

(Sportsmax)

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah tests positive for coronavirus

L

iverpool forward Mohamed Salah has tested positive for coronavirus while on international duty with Egypt.

The Egyptian Football Federation said on Friday that Salah, 28, returned a positive test, but is not displaying any symptoms.

They added that the other members of the team have tested negative.

Egypt host Togo in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match (today) on Saturday, followed by the reverse fixture in Togo on Tuesday.

S a l a h will now self-isolate, and could miss Liverpool’s next two matches.

The Reds host Leicester in the Premier League on Saturday, 21 November, fol-

lowed by a Champions League tie against Atalanta at Anfield on Wednesday, 25 November.

S a l a h h a s started all eight o f Liverpool’s Premier League games this season, and has scored eight goals.

(BBC. COM)

K

raigg Brathwaite has been dropped as West Indies Test vice-captain in order for him to be able to concentrate on improving his batting, CWI Chief of Selectors Roger Harper has revealed.

Brathwaite was replaced as vice-captain by all-rounder Roston Chase and batsman Nicholas Pooran ahead of the start of the team’s tour of New Zealand. The opener, who was first appointed Test vice-captain in 2015, has averaged 21 from his last 15 Tests heading into the England series.

He did show signs of a promised recovery with halfcenturies in the first Test, where he scored 65, and he scored 75 in the second Test.

Brathwaite, however, also had scores of 4, 12, 1 and 19, to

PUPPIES FOR SALE Mix Breed Puppies For sale Contact : 253-3114/692-0126

Service House Plan Drawing Estimates. K. Lakeram Building Contractor. Call us: 216-0671/692-846 or WhatsApp: 6220267

average 21.

According to Harper, the decision panel is hoping less responsibility would lead to more consistency from the player.

“We thought it important at this time to allow Kraigg Brathwaite, who has been the vice-captain for a while, to just pay a little more attention, to focus a little more, on his batting,” Harper told members of the media from the team’s training base in New Zealand.

“He has not been in the best of form for a little while.

I think he began to get himself together on the England tour, we want him to build on this.

We thought the relieving of the responsibility would allow him to focus some more on his batting.” (Sportsmax)

CLASSIFIED ADS WANTED Elder Assistant needed. Live-in female needed to assist elderly male, between the age of 30 to 37 years in Trinidad. Light housekeeping included. For more info call or message: 1-868-683-1528

30

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020

BCB, Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton hold successful meeting T

he Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) has been busy meeting with senior Government officials since the newly elected Government took office.

Led by its astute president Hilbert Foster, the BCB has so far held very successful meetings with several Government Ministers, including Minister of Sport Charles Ramson, Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha, Attorney General Anil Nandalal, and Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat.

Minister Bharrat was last week inducted as the Patron

of the BCB, while donating $1M and a large quantity of cricket gear to that club.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has sponsored a cricket tournament and provided a oneyear scholarship sponsorship to attend the University of Guyana as part of the prizes to be won in the tournament.

Commitments of cooperation have also been received from other senior officials of the Government.

Last Saturday, Foster led a seven-member delegation to meet with Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton in an hour-long meeting at

the St. Francis Community Developers Training Centre.

Matters discussed included a wide array of topics, including vocational training for youths, leadership seminar for club management, cooperation to tackle child abuse and child Labour, and hosting of a cricket tournament.

Minister Hamilton indicated his keen interest in working along with the BCB, as he was impressed with its work and linkage with youths. Head of the Industrial Board, Mr. Richard Maughn, spoke broadly on the training programmes associated with the Ministry after the BCB

Head indicated an interest in getting young cricketers trained in areas that would allow them to gain meaningful employment. It was noted that not all youths would be able to pass with flying colours at the CSEC level, Foster noted that gaining skills to become a carpenter, mechanic or tailor could assist youths to gain an income and take them away from a life of crime.

Minister Hamilton mandated the BIT Head to follow up discussions with the BCB to organise some sessions.

Foster also expressed disappointment at

Panthera Solutions makes significant financial contribution to Christmas Charity Programme of RHTY&SC, MS – Overseas-based Guyanese also on board

S

ince its formation in 1990, the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, MS, has hosted a Charity programme with the main objective of putting smiles on the faces of the less fortunate during the festive season.

The ten cricket teams of the club host a yearlong programme for the elderly and less fortunate, but special emphasis is placed on the Christmas segment during the month of December.

This year’s programme would start on December 5 and conclude on Christmas Eve Day, December 24.

The teams have, since mid-September, been planning for the programme, and on Monday last, they received a major boost with a significant financial contribution from Panthera Solutions. Club Secretary/ CEO Hilbert Foster

accepted the contribution on behalf of the teams.

The company, in 2019, came on board as an official sponsor of the club, and co-sponsored the 2019 Christmas Charity Programme along with a forty-page youth information booklet. Foster disclosed that this year, the Christmas Charity Programme would involve the distribution of one thousand food hampers to less fortunate families, together five thousand Christmas toys and a feeding programme to provide a warm box of food to one thousand persons.

Additionally, five hundred families would receive a special Christmas package consisting of apples, grapes, biscuits, walnuts, sweets and other items; while hundreds of senior citizens would be provided by the teams with a special

Christmas Eve breakfast at their residence.

Among the other programmes planned are distribution of clothing, school bags, educational materials, and donations to orphanages and senior citizens’ homes.

Foster has said that the ten teams: Poonai Pharmacy Under 12 and Under 13, Farfan and Mendes Under 15, Bakewell Under 17 and Second Division, Pepsi Under 19 and Intermediate, Metro Female, Namilco Under 21 and First Division, would look after the threeweek programme.

The RHTY&SC Secretary/CEO has expressed gratitude to Panthera Solution and its General Manager Andrew Dinsdale for the support received. Dinsdale, in his remarks, hailed the RHTY&SC as a role model organisation with which his

A

tled “Reforming Cricket West Indies for Improved On-Field Results”, as we remember Sir Frank Worrell, the first Black man to be appointed captain of the West Indies team.

In December 1960, Worrell led the team on tour of Australia, and history was created when the first Test at the Gabba in Brisbane ended in a mem-

orable tie.

It was the start of a series which would go down in history as the one “which saved Test cricket and kept it alive”.

This is the 20th anniversary of the annual lecture, and it would normally be held before an audience at the Cave Hill Campus of the University of the West Indies, where Sir Frank’s burial place

Minister Joseph Hamilton

cussions with the Minister of Sport concerning the hosting of a cricket tournament by the Labour Ministry to promote solutions to the problem of child abuse.

Foster expressed gratitude to Minister Hamilton for taking the time to meet with the Berbice Cricket Board, and said the BCB looks forward to a successful relationship with the Ministry.

Game Xpress leads the sponsors’ list for Big Man Cricket

BCB President Hilbert Foster

company is pleased to be associated.

Panthera Solutions is a joint venture between Farfan and Mendes Ltd and the Canada- based company Crosbie. This company, located at Providence, East Bank Demerara, offers services in the local oil sector.

Dinsdale has assured the RHTY&SC, MS, that his company is committed to a long-term relationship, and that its sponsorship would increase as the business expands in Guyana.

The ten cricket teams of the RHTY&SC, MS, would also like to express profound gratitude to numerous local and overseas-based Guyanese who have come on board to offer support.

CWI President Skerritt to honour Sir Frank Worrell at memorial lecture

s we approach the 60th anniversary of the famous Tied Test, this year’s Frank Worrell Memorial Lecture in honour of the great man who led the West Indies team in that match promises to be special.

On Monday 16th November, Ricky Skerritt, President of Cricket West Indies, will deliver the feature address, ti-

the level of management of clubs in Berbice, and the need to host leadership skills seminars for those in management positions, and this would also be discussed further with the hope of organising seminars in the near future.

The BCB also sought to obtain cooperation of the Labour Ministry to stop child abuse and child labour in the county. Minister Hamilton mandated Chief Labour Officer Charles Ogle to work along with Foster to have a campaign involving posters and billboards, while he also committed to have dis-

overlooks the Three Ws Oval – alongside his other famous team-mates Sir Clyde Walcott and Sir Everton Weekes.

However, due to COVID-19 protocols, Skerritt will deliver his address virtually.

It will be held on Monday, November 16 at 8:30pm (7:30pm Jamaica Time) and will also be available on UWI TV.

Supervisor of GAME XPRESS, Tofarah D’Andrade handing over the sponsorship check to Jonathan Yearwood, Admin Officer of BIG MAN CRICKET-GUYANA

G

uyana’s popular game store Game Xpress leads the way in sponsorship for the Big Man Cricket tournament scheduled to commence on Sunday November 22nd, 2020.

The family-run Game Xpress store, located at 25 North Road, Lacytown, Georgetown, is perhaps best known for its wide variety of gaming supplies, accessories and services.

However, there is much more depth and uniqueness to the products found at Game Xpress.

As the Christmas season approaches, customers would be presented with a lot of exciting choices and an opportunity to play a simple game to have determined the amount of discount they would receive on their purchases.

The store is flush with games and party sup-

plies for purchase and/ or rental.

Businessman Audie Henriques, proprietor of the store, readily came on board with the Big Man Cricket Over 45s T25 tournament. He has voiced his commitment to giving back to the community, as lots of the cricketers playing in this tournament are drawn from across the country and presently are possibly his customers, or could possibly be future customers of his store.

BIG MAN CRICKETGUYANA fully endorses the products and services found at GAME XPRESS, and heartily encourages the public at large to support this generous entity in these challenging times.

31

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020

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

Panthera Solutions makes significant financial contribution to RHTY&SC, BCB, Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton hold MS Christmas Charity Programme Pg 30

– Overseas-based Guyanese also on board

Page 30

Game Xpress leads the Page 30 sponsors’ list for Big Man Cricket

successful meeting

“WI could move on from Russell, says CWI Chief Selector Roger Harper Pg 29

– hints that emerging talent could push explosive all-rounder out

GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, NEWS HOTLINE: 231-8063 EDITORIAL: 223-7230, 223-7231, 231-0544, 225-7761 SPORT: sport@guyanatimesgy.com SALES AND MARKETING: 231-8064 - lezas@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.