Guyana Times - Sunday, January 3, 2020

COVID-19 provided "Give Another Chance Foundation" with opportunity to shine light on benefits of P13 Emotional Intelligence Nationwide coverage coverage from from the the best best news news team team in in Guyana Guyana Nationwide Issue No. 4517 guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON BEACON OF OF TRUTH TRUTH THE

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021

Almost 2 years later

$488M asphalt plant built by APNU/AFC non-functional Page 3

Business and COVID-19

Page 14

Govt-arranged moratoriums with commercial banks helped businesses – PSC

PRICE

$120 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Anonymous caller leads Police to P9 man’s body Police must play influential role in P10 communities – Top Cop …as 297 junior cops promoted

P11 Active COVID-19 cases decrease further

…says businesses' fixed costs were piling up

First Lady celebrates with Govt to retender for works at St Roses, mothers of New Year’s Day babies Yarrowkabra schools Page 7

…only 3 new cases recorded

Father of 4 P11 gunned down

Cattle farmer dies after P9 being beaten by villagers

…after APNU/AFC-hired contractors botch job

Page 2

3 dead, 10 injured in holiday weekend accidents

$300M Georgetown restoration

Pages 8, 12 & 20

Dead: Churman Megnat

Dead:Nimrod Persaud

Dead: Parmanand Kalamadeen

City Council yet to respond to damning P9 audit findings

2 NEWS

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

First Lady celebrates with mothers of New Year’s Day babies

F

irst Lady Arya Ali, on Friday, joined mothers in the deliv-

ery unit of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), to celebrate the

birth of 15 New Year’s Day babies. She was accompanied by CEO Brigadier

(ret’d) George Lewis. The First Lady praised the maternity staff for the work

they have been doing.

“I must commend you all in this COVID time where we’re all, each and every one of us, battling this pandemic but we’ll make it through. I just want to wish you all a happy,

The first baby was born at 01:45h.

Little Shizela weighed 2.1 kg. She was born to Lisa Edwin of Section A Number 70 Village, Corentyne.

Two and a half hours later, Marie Ali of Cotton

First Lady Arya Ali chatting with a new mother at GPHC on New Year’s Day

healthy and a prosperous new year and stay safe,” she is quoted as saying by the Department of Public Information (DPI). Ali also distributed care packages to the mothers.

Ali also visited the ward on December 25 to celebrate with the mothers of Christmas Day babies.

Meanwhile, in Berbice, five babies were born on New Year’s Day and all of them were at the New Amsterdam Hospital, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).

On New Year’s Day in 2019, there were four compared with two in 2018 at the same hospital and in 2017, there were nine and one in 2016. On New Year’s Day 2015, there were five babies born at the New Amsterdam Hospital on New Year’s Day.

Tree Village, West Coast Berbice, gave birth to a 2.5 kg girl.

It was the fourth child for Edwin, who explained that she was ill during her three previous pregnancies and this one was no different.

For Marie Ali, it was her first child and a special one, being a New Year’s baby.

Meanwhile, Tiana Karpen of Chesney, Albion, Corentyne, delivered the day’s only boy at 12:54h. the baby weighed 2.4 kg.

The other two mothers were Goroshnie Goordial of East Canefield Settlement and Tarmila Bhawan of Number 72 Village, Corentyne, both delivering girls, at 20:20 and 21:58, respectively.

All of the mothers were presented with gifts from the health department.

NEWS

3

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Almost 2 years later

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Sunday, January 3 – 09:00h – 10:30h and Monday, January 4 – 09:00h – 10:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Sunday, January 3 – 07:15h – 08:45h and Monday, January 4 – 08:00h – 09:30h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery showers will prevail during the day.

There will be light rain showers during the night.

Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 27 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to East North-Easterly to North North-Easterly to Northerly between 1.78 metres and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 07:22h and 19:38h reaching maximum heights of 2.48 metres and 2.57 metres.

Low Tide: 13:10h reaching a minimum height of 0.75 metre.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2020

LOTTERY NUMBERS G

04 07 10

14 20 26

17

D

FREE TICKET

Bonus Ball

DAILY MILLIONS

11 15 19 20 21 LUCKY 3

2

8

3

5

Afternoon Draw

4

3

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

01

10

13

14

15 17 18

PAY DAY

SUPER PAY DAY FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020

01 06 07 08 13

01 04 09 11 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

$51.80/barrel

+0.33

Rough Rice

$225.54/ton

+0.32

London Sugar

$420.90/ton

+0.60

Live Spot Gold

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1898.00

$1899.00

Low/High

$1884.70

$1901.00

Change

-0.00

-0.00%

$488M asphalt plant built by APNU/AFC non-functional

A

lmost two years after the former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government spent a whopping $488 million to procure parts for and then construct a modern asphalt plant, the plant is still non-operational.

In an exclusive interview with this publication, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill revealed that when the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) entered office in August, it was to find that the Eco 2000 Batch mix asphalt plant was non-functional.

He noted that as per the last update on the project, the asphalt plant remains non-functional and the State is unable to get value for the monies it spent on the project, bringing in parts from Germany and then assembling it.

“It is (non-operational).

They’re waiting on some expert to come in with some part, to make it operational. And the excuse was COVID prevented that from happening. I don’t have an update that anything has changed. Over $400 million,” the Minister said.

When parts for the asphalt plant were first brought in back in 2019, it was hailed as “the most modern” asphalt plant in the region. The parts, along with an installation crew, were supposed to come from Germany for the assembly at the Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation (DHBC), Garden of Eden branch, East Bank Demerara.

It was expected to reduce costs in the construction of asphalt concrete roads in the near future. Once assembled, this plant would have been the largest in the country - capable of supplying the local needs of the Ministry in the execution of road construction and rehabilitation, without compromising quality or price.

The new asphalt plant was procured through public tender during 2018 by the DHBC and was supposed to have the power and capability to produce approximately 160 tonnes of asphalt per hour – almost four times faster than the current asphalt plant, while also using recyclable materials like plastic bags and bottles, as well as tires.

Further, the new plant was also expected to meet all required environmental standards regarding air and noise emissions, which would have been certified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

But that was in July 2019. The plant was still not completed by June 2020 and when asked about it by sections of the media, General Manager of the DHBC Rawlston Adams had cited the COVID-19 pandemic at the time for causing the delays.

“We’ve had one electrical component that wasn’t

a part of the original shipment and that delayed the commissioning. We have it in place, the company has shipped it, we have already cleared it, and it’s there ready to install. COVID-19 is causing a delay in that part being put in, however, because the German technicians had to go back to Germany, and once the airports are reopened the team will make their way back here, and we do the testing and the commissioning,” Adams was quoted as saying.

The $488 million asphalt plant remains non-operational

TURN TO PAGE 7

4

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021

Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544 223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 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

The year ahead N

ow that we have pulled the curtains on 2020 and gotten through the end-of-year formalities and informalities as best as we could under the pall of the COVID-19, we should all make a collective resolution to put our shoulders to the wheel of our national vehicle of progress to get it out of the morass in which it has become stuck during the last two years.

While, objectively, one new day is just like any other, subjectively, we all view a “new” year as a new beginning.

As such, this presents us with the opportunity to consciously act in a manner that would engender that progress.

After all, with US$180M already in our national accounts at the NY Fed from the first year of oil production - which has only now reached the targeted 120,000 bpd production from Lisa 1 - we know we have some “grease” to apply to the wheel of progress. And maybe we can begin with this circumstance of oil revenues that have, unfortunately, become such a point of contention. There is no question that almost all Guyanese, with the possible exception of the then APNU/AFC’s line minister Raphael Trotman, accepts that the contract he signed away for the Stabroek Block was stacked against our best interests. But at this point, with the political directorate from both sides of the divide concluding that it was not prudent to demand a renegotiation of the contract, we should move on to ensure that we have a consensus as to the best way to expend the revenues from the oil, extraction of which is scheduled to rise to 750,000 bpd by 2025. Related issues, such as determining the best rate of future production or use of the associated gas, should best be left to those who can guarantee the certainty of their prognostications - which, of course, no one can.

The PPPC Government have outlined in their 2020 Manifesto their overall development plans, and they would be expected to execute those, since it was on this basis that they were given the electoral mandate to take the reins of Government. For instance, in reference to the oil revenues, they committed to using it as support for job creation, to build world-class education and healthcare systems for Guyanese, in addition to social and economic infrastructure.

They also committed to introducing targeted cash transfers to Guyanese, particularly the elderly, children, the poor, and other vulnerable groups. What has been heartening is that, since they took office on Aug 2, 2020, they have launched initiatives in each of these areas without even touching the oil revenues. This shows commitment to their promise towards national development, and all Guyanese should play their part, since governments can only provide the enabling environment for “we the people” to deliver the goods.

Another area of endeavour in which we can play our part is in defeating the COVID-19 pandemic in our country. New Zealand showed that, with a combination of firm governmental controls and regulations, along with a disciplined population adhering to guidelines, the pandemic can be defeated, even without a vaccine. However, with vaccines already being rolled out in the developed nations, and in the offing within months for us, we have to guard against complacency setting in, which would increase our already indifferent observance of the COVID-19 guidelines.

In the political realm, which is our most contentious area of national life, there is, unfortunately, much unfinished business that might cause tensions to rise once again.

The Guyanese public from all “sides” of the divide should therefore take a deep breath and act maturely to protect their collective interest, which lies in the fostering of a peaceful atmosphere to settle our inevitable differences in political opinions. The argument about the elections has been presented to the Courts, which has been mandated to settle such differences.

It behooves us to await the consummation of that process, and to accept the verdict, whatever it may be.

We should never forget what PNC did to us

Dear Editor, The year 2020 will mark the end of the rebirth of the worst version of the PNC. Worst since it is backed by a party, the AFC, which in many ways made the PNC acolytes pale in comparison.

It must be recalled that the AFC, founded by two malcontents from the PNC and the PPP, perpetrated worse forms of cronyism and corruption within the party, which resulted in many top members bidding farewell to the corrupt leaders.

I was the first to expose the corruption within the AFC, and was expelled from the party by Khemraj Ramjattan who labelled me a ‘rogue’ councillor, but then the exodus began. Today, the party can be seen as a two-man ‘band’ comprised of Ramjattan and Trotman, with Nagamootoo gone into exile or hibernating. This dishonourable trio transformed the AFC into such a discreditable entity that the term ‘third party’ is now a curse in Guyana, and probably the world at large.

It would be superfluous to mention the atrocities of the PNC, but we need to remind ourselves so that we do not get trapped again and again.

I was born in the pre-independence era, and survived the PNC dictatorship like many other Guyanese who persevered. I could recall the mass exodus of Guyanese, which began soon after 1968, when Guyanese became convinced that the PNC dictatorship under Burnham would never be able to bring progress to this country, but many Guyanese remained and fought that dictatorship. In

fact, the PNC bankrupted the economy and sold off many of our valuable assets for next to nothing, enriching families and friends and those who can provide a lucrative kick-back.

Fortunately, from 1992 until 2015, the PPP/C, under the leadership of the late Dr Jagan and then Dr Jagdeo, propelled Guyana into an upward progressive trajectory, which moved Guyana from being a poor low-income country to a middle-income country with a per capita income in excess of US$5,000.

Guyanese must be reminded that under Hoyte our per capita income was a meagre US$500, and in 1988 our foreign debt was US$885 million, more than 4 times our annual export. We had moved from being the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere; in fact, the Mc Intyre Report in 1989 ranked Guyana below Haiti.

According to that Report, inflation was 50% and unemployment 40%. Guyanese no longer had to go to the US via the backtrack route to eke out a living, thousands were given 10-year US visas and went on holidays, because Guyanese were becoming affluent.

However, many Guyanese suffered from amnesia and voted the PNC (baptised the Coalition) back into power in 2015, and the cronyism and corruption began all over again, but with an intensity unparalleled. The insane and insatiable quest began not only to enrich themselves, cronies and families, but to build the foundation to create an everlasting dictatorship headed by an absolute ruler.

The APNU/AFC had squandered and mismanaged our economy through corrupt

practices to the extent that they had spent more than $1.3 trillion dollars with nothing to show for it. In fact, Guyanese had been overtaxed, with an additional annual average of $80 billion more than under the PPP/C. It is equally alarming that they spent more than $600 billion than what the PPP/C government spent in their last 4 years in office up to 2015! Where has the money gone, when it is considered that more Guyanese were unemployed then than ever before, and that 4 sugar estates had been closed, and the factories, infrastructure and cultivation were completely annihilated.

The PNC had ‘blessed’ us once again with the opposite of the Midas Touch!

It reminds of what the late Dr Rodney had prophetically said about the PNC! Every year since 2015, the Auditor General’s Report continues to expose the massive theft, squandermania and corruption which permeated every strata of Government. We, as Guyanese, must be thankful that the PPP/C under Jagdeo’s astute leadership has once again rescued us from the making of the worst PNC dictatorship ever.

Fortunately, despite 5 long and arduously stressful months, the PPP/C and the local and international communities brought this agony to an end. This also brought an end to the ignominious 5-year tenure of the PNCdominated Coalition. In fact, by then there was no distinction between the various parties within the coalition, they had been completely consumed by the PNC’s avaricious juggernaut.

On August 2nd 2020, the newly elected PPP/C Government headed by Dr Irfaan Ali launched a massive nationwide rebuilding campaign, significantly eroding the debilitating measures implemented by the Coalition. Never had this country seen such a hardworking Government getting everything under control in just 4 months in office. The President, the Vice President and all the Ministers are in every nook and cranny, listening to the pleas of the people and resolving their many issues, which had mainly resulted from the Coalition’s mismanagement and corruption.

Special mention must be made of the agrarian revolution spearheaded by Minister Mustapha, which is taking place across the length and breadth of this country. The Coalition had sounded the death knell on this sector, which is so vital for the future of our country.

The PPP/C is not bringing Farmer Nappy and Buju Banton to deceive the populace that all’s well, but they are once again distributing hard cash to the people, especially the public servants and GuySuCo workers. This is what a caring Government does.

Our New Year’s resolution must be that we should never forget what the PNC did to us, especially in 2020; and vow never to allow this to happen again. Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it. Good riddance to the coalition, and Happy New Year to all!

Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf

Will 2021 be the year for renewable energy?

Dear Editor, What a year this has been!

We've made it to the end, but not without a lot of scars, pains, frustrations and pure exhaustion. “Intense” is the word I would give 2020. I’ve had the full pendulum: from exhaustion to high anxiety to great sadness to joy and rediscovery.

My sadness is deep for the state of the world, outside of the obvious pandemic. The division in our country is deep and wide. Despite the People’s Progressive Party Civic Government’s efforts to unite this nation and bring back some respectability to this great nation of ours, the APNU/ AFC Opposition continues to break our hearts and disappoint us as a nation. I hope we find a way to disagree and still show respect for one another.

Find out the actual situation or truth before jumping to conclusions. Remind ourselves to not judge, to show grace, to show empathy.

Looking back, 2020 will be a thick chapter in the history books. This year will be remembered for all kinds of catastrophes, from public health to economic devastation. It’s been a rough one, and I just want to acknowledge that. I also want to acknowledge the very real struggles so many are facing due to the events of the world, the pandemic, and the real struggles of simply living.

The rest of 2020 and early 2021 would likely be defined by experiencing the disillusionment phase of disaster recovery as we navigate the current stresses related to a third wave of infection and higher rates of hospitalisation.

The risk of depression, hopelessness, and substance use historically are at their highest during this phase of any disaster, matching what we are seeing at this current time. This is leading to a corresponding need for behavioural health services.

For many people, behavioural health outcomes from the COVID-19 pandemic include symptoms of depression and anxiety, and are related to experiences of social isolation, significant changes in lifestyle and employment, fears of the unknowns around further restrictions and economic losses, and stress and pressure related to the balance of child care and work.

We expect behavioural health issues to worsen as COVID-19 cases increase, which could escalate medical risks for greater numbers of people. It’s meant to remind us all that if we’re struggling, there is good reason to be, and we are not alone. We all - no matter our background, beliefs, or positions on all the varied topics in our community and in our country – can likely at least agree that 2020 has been hard!

Really hard! And there are very real mental health struggles that come with that.

If you are struggling, please do reach out for help. Our Government cares, the people of Guyana care, and you matter! But despite all the negative effects we have experienced, it may also be remembered that it was the turning point for clean energy, and the year that changed the world’s trajectory away from certain catastrophic climate change and towards a cleaner, greener energy landscape.

2020 was the year that showed us that oil is not, in fact, infallible, and that peak oil is, in fact, inevitable - and it’s right around the corner, if it’s not already happening as we speak. When the pandemic brought the global economy to a screeching halt earlier this year, oil prices dove to historic lows, not just shattering previous rock bottoms, but plunging way past zero. For many world leaders and energy and economics experts around the world, this crash had a significant silver lining. It provided a unique and necessary interruption to business as usual in which the powers that be could finally, at long last, take the necessary steps to phase out fossil fuels and reorient the planet away from certain climate death. The World Economic Forum advocated for a “new energy or-

der “and a “great reset". Many International agencies are all either drafting or implementing green stimulus plans.

It must be proud to say that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic Government has led the charge in this event. All this is to say that while many other economic sectors languished this year, battered by low demands, lockdowns, and supply chain woes, renewable energy companies around the world have had a very, very good year. In fact, a record year. “The numbers are eye-popping,” And then, of course, there are electric vehicle companies.

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve likely been unable to escape the news. 2020 may go down in history as the year that turned everything around for the energy industry and the environment, but 2021 probably isn’t going to be too shabby either. The United States has just passed its biggest energy bill in a decade, and it’s betting big on renewables. Renewable energy technology is advancing faster than ever, and the sector is on track to keep getting stronger and stronger.

Will 2021 be the year for renewable energy? I hope we all find some joy in 2021, as different as it may be! Happy New Year!

Sincerely, David Adams

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021

5

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

Guyanese are now breathing a sigh of relief Dear Editor, As the Guyanese nation embraces 2021, most of our citizens are now breathing easier, after an extremely frustrating and fearful five-year subversion at the hands of PNC-led APNU/ AFC operatives.

Under the corrupt cabal, our citizens experienced the convulsions of widespread economic disaster and widely expressed fear of the precipitous paralysis of possible continuous destructive civil unrest. The high likelihood of the emergence of a Police State in reaction to what could have become an outright destructive civil war was not easy to fathom.

The general sigh of relief comes after a keen but triumphant struggle that finally overwhelmed the most threatening and almost viral attempts at ‘rigging’ of our General and Regional Elections. Although the Global COVID-19 pandemic remains a serious concern, various forms of assistance are now being provided to the democratically-elected Irfaan Ali-led Government.

No doubt, a sense of re-

newed hope has been invigorated, thanks to their excellent work.

The young and vibrant PPP/C Government Ministers, under the astute leadership of His Excellency Dr. Irfaan Ali, are certainly walking the walk. In so doing, they are on the move, taking the Government and solutions to the people while making Guyana a better place for all Guyanese.

It is indeed heartening to see the Ministers and their technical staff in the fields almost daily, listening to citizens’ issues and implementing initiatives to improve their well-being. The Minister's presence alone is a source of comfort to our people.

It is now necessary for all citizens to exhibit the sense of nationalism required, that which would support and adrenalise the positive progressive movement needed to holistically complement the swiftest development benefits. As we move on from the disastrous “leap year” 2020, all the indicators so far assist in the encouraging visualisation of

a prosperous 2021 and beyond. Our nation, therefore, must advance the resolve to live as one united people, in love and harmony.

Editor, there is no intention to convey that a harmonious pathway will set aside the egregious, always-looming threats to the cantankerous PNC/GECOM combination. One must recognise that the central pillar for our effective forward movement is that of a recognised democratic front.

Our own experiences provide many deleterious confirmations of the devastating impact caused by the tough twenty-eight years of PNC rigging, from the 1960s to 1992. It took our country from being the food basket of the Caribbean and brought it to being the most poverty-stricken country in this hemisphere.

Without aforethought, therefore, the last five years serve to remind us that the entire world stood up for Guyana to stop the ‘rigging of elections’, and the year 2020 will never be forgotten. It is rational that the total eradication of all pos-

sible threats MUST be pursued swiftly. The emphasis on the Local Government Election this year lends equally to the importance of this critically important pillar.

The PPP/C’s notification that budget allocations will be provided to fund these elections must be applauded.

Notwithstanding, the same cannot be said at this time for GECOM. Diversion tactics inundate the general framework, making any ‘talked about’ plan unacceptable without transparent efforts to cleanse the organisation of clearly compromised staff.

The Guyanese people must speak out, holding their pride to show the world that the international support received in the struggle for free and fair elections will be preserved and held in the highest esteem.

The five months from March to August were indeed frustrating, as our nation struggled against the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with the more dan-

gerous ‘Rigged Elections’ epidemic. We must never forget the strong stand of our comrades and patriotic Guyanese of all walks of life in this struggle.

Particularly, the dynamic Leadership provided by the People’s Progressive Party led by the mature Champion of the Earth, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, and team, that realised the restoration of democracy to our beloved Guyana.

There is no denying that an overwhelmingly united PPP/C then and now is the real visible base and catalyst for the thrust in the development take-off of our country. It is this unquestionable initiative-driven cohesiveness of the PPP leaders that continues the sustenance of momentum in progressive national rewards. It is appropriate to recognize, in this respect, the maturity of Dr. Jagdeo who, according to veteran politician Clinton Collymore, is a man of substance who played the lead role in keeping the PPP/C together while ensuring that democracy prevails.

Today, January 01, 2021 (the time of writing) being the 71st Anniversary of the PPP, the great sacrifices of the Party’s founding Members: Dr. Cheddi Jagan, Mrs. Janet Jagan, Mr. Ashton Chase and J Hubbard, are recalled.

While the solidity of the approaches they instilled continues to serve as an inspiration to members, the new cadre consisting of General Secretary Dr. Jagdeo, President Dr. Irfaan Ali, Attorney-General Mr. Anil Nandlall et.al, must be recognised and acknowledged for their seamless fluency.

The party looks forward to their excellent stewardship in 2021, which must be the year when we must fully resolve to make our beautiful Guyana a source of pride. Further, along the way, the world must see that we are indeed thankful for their support in our time of need. Free and fair elections are required, and we must ensure GECOM is cleaned up.

Sincerely, Neil Kumar

Transformational Leadership: a most befitting characterisation Dear Editor, On the elections campaigns trails, the PPP articulated a set of national goals and promised to fulfill them if chosen to replace the corrupt APNU/AFC regime.

Most Guyanese, desperately desirous of escaping APNU/AFC’s strangulation, enthusiastically endorsed the PPP’s vision, giving the party the mandate to form the new government. It has been five months since the PPP took the reins of government-would have been much longer but for the obstructionist conduct of APNU/AFC-and Guyanese are witnessing a phenomenon that is rare by any standards. This unusual development is addressing serious long-standing issues with a level of decisiveness and urgency that is arguably without a precedent in Guyana. This is recognized by everyone except the most die-hard supporters of APNU/AFC. Frontally confronting and solving critical issues almost immediately upon assuming office could be considered the litmus test of good governance, especially in the light of a pulverized economy and an empty treasury -two of the legacies of the previous regime. Paralyzed by a state of stagnation and misrule under an inept APNU/AFC, the citizens of this beautiful land would consider even modest improvements as a beacon that offers hope for their immediate future.

Having had their dreams crushed and their livelihood taken away by the previous government, people are desperate and understand-

ably want quick solutions to their problems.

Not only are some of their most pressing problems being resolved; many are also surprised at how quickly the Irfaan Ali-led Government is moving to ease their burdens and are speechless over the magnitude of improvements that is taking place. To the relief and delight of citizens, many developmental projects are being initiated.

For example, hundreds of (house) lots have been allocated across the regions, setting the stage for a boom in the home construction industry. Scholarships are being awarded to encourage higher learning and enhance the quality of education. It should be noted that many of these initiatives are taking place with the collaboration of citizens. The practice of giving citizens the opportunity “to develop and articulate their own visions of what the nature of government should be about” is one of the seminal accomplishments of the President.

These undertakings are not pursued in a fiscally unsound manner. They are instead embarked upon with full budgetary considerations in mind-expenditures vs revenues. As we know, spending without the ability to balance expenditure against revenues is not consistent with sound economic theories. This may have certain shortterm benefits but may create serious problems for future generations. In other words, the reinvigoration of the economy, which has already created many jobs, is

not at the expense of a market economy which is the foundation of the government’s economic policies.

Revitalizing the economy is occurring instead within the framework of Keynesian economics, which generally considers a market economy as crucial for development, but also advocates “an active role for government intervention during recession and depressions.” While the genesis of the poverty that Guyanese are slowly emerging out of has nothing to do with market forces or a market economy that would warrant the application of Keynesian economics theory, but rather with gross incompetence and corruption on the part of the previous government, the President, in a master stroke of strategic leadership, has injected billions into the economy in order to provide the much-needed impetus for economic growth.

An example of direct government intervention that will have the effect of stimulating the economy, thereby easing some of the hardships on the people, is the recent announcement of “a one-off grant of $25,000 to all Public Servants including stall of Central Government, Statutory Bodies, Subvention Agencies, Public Corporations, Government pensioners and staff of the University of Guyana.” It is understood that GUYSUCO workers will also benefit from this policy. This is in addition to the $25,000 COVID-19 relief that has already been given to each household. All of this by a

government that took office only five months ago without anything in the treasury. However, stewardship of the country demands prudence as doling out monies can have unintended consequences. Here is where the genius of the President comes into focus. Economic decisions are made on the basis both current and projected earnings. If current revenues do not suffice to economically justify these policies, there is no need for alarm. Future earnings from oil and gas, from an enhanced agriculture sector and from other industries

will far exceed present expenditures. A deep understanding of this principle is one of the stellar qualities of the President. Hence, the bold steps he is taking.

Lives are simply being transformed at a pace that impartial citizens would have no problems considering as mind-boggling. Lots of this has to do with the President’s conception of governance. The President knows that the crucible for real action on behalf of the people is putting the interests of citizens above everything else. The qualitative change we witness is

also attributable to the “fix it now” approach on the part of the President. The President clearly recognizes that certain issues cannot be deferred to a future date for resolution. He appreciates that this unconventional approach is the antidote to the inherent weaknesses of bureaucracy, which have exasperated the frustrations of the Guyanese people. How else to characterize the President other than as a transformational leader?

Sincerely, Sheik M Ayube

UG responds to Ajit Persaud’s letter on promotions The University of Guyana wishes to bring to the public attention the following facts: 1. Deputy ViceChancellors Dr Emanuel Cummings and Dr Mellissa Ifill have not been promoted to the level of Professor.

2. The University’s Vice-Chancellor is the administrative head of the University and speaks only on matters of policy directly relating to the University.

She has never and does not make public statements about any political matter since she is not the political head of the University.

3. Dr Emanuel Cummings was not the chair of the committee which appointed the ViceChancellor.

The University’s Council has outlined the 26-step yearlong public and transpar-

ent process regarding the appointment several times in 2020. ( Press Statement From The University Council On The Appointment Of Professor Paloma Mohamed-Martin, A.A. as the 11th Vice Chancellor Of The University Of Guyana | University of Guyana (uog. edu.gy) 4. The personal, political affiliations of the Deputy Vice-Chancellors may be a matter of public record and they may represent inclusivity of different ends of the political spectrum. Both the Constitution of Guyana and the University of Guyana’s Acts and Statutes protect the academic citizen’s democratic right to freedom of affiliation, freedom of expression, freedom of speech, or non-

speech acts. The University has several internal disciplinary processes which are used if any breaches of policy, laws, or ethics should occur.

5. However, the University as a state institution always works in consonance with the Government of the day in the best interest of Guyana and all Guyanese.

The University of Guyana takes this opportunity to wish everyone a healthful, peaceful, and prosperous 2021.

Director of DECC, Office of the Department of Events, Conferences and Communications The Public Relations Officer (ag) Public Relations Unit – DECC

6

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021

Page

Foundation

By Desmond Lew, MD

V

accines are one of the main reasons why we enjoy a relatively disease-free and extended life span. The others are the creation of antiseptics and antibiotics. Before the invention of vaccines, people died of diseases such as Pertussis, Tetanus, Measles, and were crippled by Polio. Widespread epidemics would kill millions of people and wipe out entire towns or villages. Fears about vaccines come from mistrust of authority figures (physicians), governmental agencies (CDC), and “big business” (pharmaceutical industry).

This mistrust comes from the belief that an individual’s interest is overlooked for governmental or monetary interests. This mistrust is magnified when there is a lack of understanding of diseases, our immune systems, how vaccines are produced and tested, and vaccine side effects.

Communicable diseases are diseases that are transmitted from person-to-person; sometimes there is an intermediate source such as a contaminated surface or food. Our body comes into contact will hundreds or thousands of new germs every day. Some can make us very sick and others are benign like the beneficial bacteria in yoghurt.

We become ill when our bodies are exposed to certain foreign germs, our body’s immune system creates antibodies to fight the bacteria or virus, and our body raises the internal temperature to kill the germ, which creates a fever. Most of the time we get over the attack on our body quickly and we’re back to normal in a few days, but there are germs that can cause severe reaction to our bodies and damage key organs. For exam-

ple, Measles can cause a mild rash, red eyes, and some body aches and fever; however, it can be very severe and in 1 out of 1000 individuals with Measles, it can cause Encephalitis which is an inflammation of the brain which may lead to brain damage, coma or even death. With the creation of the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine, measles had been virtually eliminated from the United States in 2000; however, there has been a resurgence of the disease because some parents have opted out on the vaccine. Worldwide measles kills several hundred thousand people a year.

Myth: If most of the kids are vaccinated at school, then I don’t need to vaccinate my child because he will be protected.

Fact: This is somewhat true but we live in an international country where people from all over the world come and they may be carrying a germ that you are not vaccinated against.

Myth: Getting multiple vaccines such as the combination vaccines will overwhelm my immune system and cause side effects.

Fact: Our body’s immune system is exposed to hundreds if not thousands of germs every day so a few more in a vaccine will not make any difference. Research has shown that giving multiple vaccines concurrently is safe.

Myth: Getting the Flu vaccine can cause me to get sick from the Flu. Fact: The injectable flu vaccine is a killed-vaccine and can-

not cause the flu. The nasal spray version is an attenuated-virus vaccine; there is an extremely low likelihood of getting flu symptoms with the live vaccine. Individuals who say the last time they got the flu shot, they got the flu shortly afterwards most likely were exposed to the flu around the time they got the flu vaccine. So the flu vaccine did not have time to take effect and they became ill.

Vaccines come in different forms, a live-attenuated (weakened) virus or a killed vaccine.

The live-attenuated vaccines are altered forms of the normal germ so when patients are given the vaccine, the body develops a mild reaction to the germ but the fullblown disease is avoided and the immune system is stimulated to create antibodies against the virus. In a killed-vaccine, the germ is killed in the manufacturing process but the main components of the germ are still intact. The killed vaccine cannot cause any disease. These components are seen by the immune system and antibodies are created. In either type of vaccine live or killed, the immune system remembers the germ and if you are exposed the real germ, your body develops antibodies quickly

to kill it off before it can cause disease. A part of the vaccine is the Preservative that the vaccine is stored in. In the past, many of the multi-dose vials of vaccines were stored with mercury-containing preservative solutions (thimerosal). There was fear that with injections of vaccines, that somehow this exposure to thimerosal would cause autism. Acute and chronic mercury poisoning does not produce the same symptoms of autism. In the 1990s, epidemiologists noted an increase in the diagnosis of autism. This may in part due to increased awareness of autism, better diagnosis, and the expanded criteria for autism spectrum disorders.

But because of the public’s outcry against mercury-containing vaccines, it was decided that to increase the public’s confidence in vaccines, that thimerosal be phased out by the early 2000s.

However, the rate of diagnosis of autism has continued to rise even though thimerosal has been largely phased out.

Myth: Injectable polio vaccine (IPV) can cause Polio.

Fact: IPV is a killed vaccine and cannot cause Polio. The Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) is a live-attenuated vaccine and is given in parts of the world where polio is still present. OPV is more effective than IPV but because Polio has been almost eliminated in the Western Hemisphere, OPV is no longer given. OPV can cause Polio in rare instances, about 1 in 2.4 million doses.

Myth: MMR causes autism.

Fact: There was a study in 1998 published in the British Medical Journal that linked MMR to autism by Dr Andrew Wakefield. This study became the basis for the belief that MMR and vaccines caused autism.

This led to a sharp drop in the number of MMR vaccines given to children in Britain; this resulted in an increase in Measles.

The British Medical Journal had retracted the study in 2010 because it appeared that attorneys who were hoping to sue vaccine manufacturers paid Dr Wakefield more than $674,0000; he falsified the medical histories to make the study show a link between MMR and autism. Dr Wakefield lost his medical licence as a result of this.

Subsequent studies by other researchers have failed to show any link between vaccines and autism. Current research appears to point more towards a genetic link to autism.

Myth: Thimerosal (mercury) in vaccines cause autism.

Fact: Research has shown no link between thimerosal and autism. In 2001 thimerosal was removed from all childhood vaccines. The rate of autism has continued to rise despite the removal of thimerosal. Vaccines have been studied and tested extensively prior to being approved for general use by the FDA. They are one of the most effective means to prevent infection. We now have vaccines that are targeting viruses that can cause cervical cancer. Although there will always be a segment of society that is distrustful of medical science, pharmaceutical businesses, and governmental agencies, the latest research in vaccine side effects has shown that vaccines are generally safe.

(Excerpt from childdevelopmentinfo.com)

NEWS

7

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Govt to retender for works to St Roses, Yarrowkabra schools …after APNU/AFC-hired contractors botch job

W

ith the Education Ministry reviews of construction on St Roses High and Yarrowkabra Secondary either complete or being finalised, the contracts for these schools are likely to be retendered soon.

This was revealed by Education Minister Priya Manickchand in an exclusive interview with this publication. She noted that the Ministry of Education has been reviewing both projects, which started under the previous Government but had to be terminated by the current Government because of contractual breaches and delays.

“We’re presently assessing what else needs to be done, so that we can put out for public bids for people to bid to do the work that is necessary to be done. Remember the (contractors) left it at a certain point? So, there was a drawing, (the contractors) did some of the work from the drawings,” she said.

According to the Minister, they will now have to seek new contractors who can pick up where the previous contractors left off, based on the previous designs for the schools and who would have the lowest, most responsive bids.

“I think St Roses is finished and ready to go out (to public tender). And Yarrowkabra is almost finished. We want children to be able to benefit from the physical structures of these schools. We want them to have a quality education,”

Minister of Education Priya Manickchand

Minister Manickchand also explained.

In November of last year, the Legal Affairs Ministry had cause to terminate a number of contracts inherited from the previous Government which had been delayed and for which the costs had become inflated.

One such contract was for the construction of a new St Roses High School.

The contract for this project was awarded since August of 2018. However, the contractor only managed to complete a small fraction of the works it was contracted to do.

Courtney Benn Contracting Services Limited (CBCSL), the contractor that was initially awarded the over $350 million contract through the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) to construct the school, was subsequently booted off the project.

It was revealed in November that Attorney General Anil Nandlall on

behalf of the Government, wrote to the company informing them that the contract was being terminated on the grounds that they had failed to complete the project in a timely manner and in accordance with work schedules. “…Your company has committed a fundamental breach of the terms of the contract and as a result thereof, the Government of Guyana hereby exercises its right to terminate the contract with immediate effect,” Nandlall set out in his letter.

When it comes to the Yarrowkabra Secondary School, Nandlall also wrote the contractor a letter dated November 1, 2020, terminating the contract. However, the Education Ministry only managed to take control of the site after contactor BK International finally vacated the location weeks later.

Nandlall had contended in the letter that the company had committed a fundamental breach of the terms of the contract and as a result, the Government of Guyana exercised its right to terminate the contract. In the said letter, the contractor was advised to remove all machinery and equipment from the site.

But on November 10, 2020, the consultancy firm visited the site and observed that the company was still progressing with works despite the contract being terminated.

In a letter dated

This was the construction site at Yarrowkabra Secondary when the Ministry took possession of it

November 11, 2020, the consultancy firm wrote the Managing Director of BK International Inc, Brian Tiwarie, informing him that pursuant to Clause 40.5 [Termination] “the contractor is to stop the works immediately, make the site safe and secure and leave the site as soon as reason-

ably possible.”

In that letter, the consultants instructed the contractor to stop works immediately and advised that any work done or materials ordered beyond the date of termination, November 1, 2020, would be done at the contractor’s own risk.

The Ministry add-

$488M asphalt plant...

While this asphalt plant remains non-functional, controversy surrounds the original asphalt plant.

Soon after the PPP took office, reports emerged that contractors working on Government projects were mandated to take their asphalt from the Garden of Eden plant and would get huge discounts under a scam that stretched all the way to the former Ministry of Public Infrastructure.

According to the report, persons from the Ministry would order a cer-

ed that on November 19, 2020, Permanent Secretary of the Education Ministry, Alfred King wrote BK International Inc instructing the company to bring all work to a halt with immediate effect and vacate the project site within twenty-four hours. This it did within a day.

FROM PAGE 3

tain amount of asphalt from the plant to be billed to the Ministry. However, they would collect less than what was ordered, and the difference was sold at discounted prices to contractors. This would result in significant losses in revenue as well as contractors benefiting from the racket being at an unfair advantage over other contractors.

The Government ordered a probe into the asphalt plant racket, which, among other damning findings, confirmed that asphalt

was being given on credit to major companies, some with their own asphalt plants and thus, in competition with the DHBC. Additionally, the probe found that the asphalt plant paid more than $9.8 million to a non-existent Trinidadian company back in 2015 – one year before the company was incorporated. These were among a series of discrepancies unearthed during an investigation into allegations of a major racket at the asphalt plant dating back several years.

8 NEWS

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

2 hospitalised, 1 injured in separate hits-and-run

T

wo persons are now hospitalised and one is nursing injuries about his body following two separate hit-andrun accidents that occurred

on the Zeelugt Public Road, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), and Richmond Public Road, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

Reports are that a

54-year-old man of Anna Regina Housing Scheme, Essequibo Coast, is in Police custody following a hit-and-run accident on the Richmond Public Road, which occurred on Friday at about 12:30h. According to information from the region, a 15-year-old boy and a 39-year-old female were walking on the public road when the suspect allegedly hit them from behind.

Eyewitnesses said the victims were flung into the air and landed on the road’s surface, receiving injuries about their bodies. However, instead of stopping and rendering assistance, the driver fled the scene.

Both the teen and the 39-year-old were picked up and rushed to the Suddie Public Hospital where they were admitted as patients.

Investigations are ongoing.

Meanwhile, on Thursday last at about 22:30h on the Zeelugt Public Road, a silver-grey motor car struck a pedestrian who was identified as Rockey Alleyne, 28, a labourer of Parika Outfall, EBE.

Based on reports, the 28-year-old labourer was reportedly standing on the southern side of the road when the car driven by an unknown person was proceeding west along the southern side of the Zeelugt Public Road. The car reportedly swerved into the path of Alleyne and collided with him.

As a result of the impact, Alleyne fell onto the road and received injuries to his head while the car sped away.

He was picked up in a conscious state and taken to the Leonora Cottage Hospital where he was treated for his injuries and sent away.

Checks made in the area for the motor car proved futile. Investigations continue.

5 injured following EBD lorry-car collision

F

ive persons are now hospitalised at the Georgetown Public Hospital following a collision between a motor lorry and a motor car on Thursday at Coverden on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD).

Reports are the accident occurred at about 17:00h on Old Year’s Day. Police said the motor lorry was driven by a 33-year-old man of Enmore, East Coast Demerara (ECD), and the motor car was driven by a 26-year-old male of Block X Diamond Housing Scheme, EBD. It was revealed by investigators that the motor lorry was proceeding north along the western side of the road allegedly at a fast rate of speed, when the driver of the motor car was in the process of swerving from a pothole.

The driver of the motor lorry reportedly lost control of the vehicle and ended up in the path of the motor car which was proceeding south along the eastern side of the said road.

As a result, the car and motor lorry collided, causing both vehicles to receive extensive damages.

The drivers of the vehicles along with two other occupants of the motor lorry and one from the motor car were taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation where they were all admitted in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in serious conditions.

Investigations are ongoing.

Undermining...

H

…our Republic ave you ever seen those coconut trees that lost all their leaves; couldn’t produce those bounteous “water” coconuts that quenched our thirst on brutally hot days, and then up and died? It didn’t happen “just like that”. They were invaded by coconut worms - locally known as “cockles” - that eat out the heart of the palm and eventually kill it. And there is something analogous that’s happening to our fledgling democracy which had been suffocated by the PNC between 1964 and 1992, but was nurtured back to life by the PPP between 1992 and 2015.

In those long, dark, nightmarish 28 years, the PNC had infected our democratic system with the diseased “cockles” of “party paramountcy”, and then rigged all elections through the circular, insane logic that their paramount party was above the rules. They could do whatever they wanted - from nationalising the big companies for their “big ones” to run as their personal fiefdoms, to assassinating political opponents. The political framework that sustains democracy was inevitably eaten away, and we ended up precariously perched above Haiti - the signifier of how low a country could fall.

We saw the signs of this paramountcy mentality resurface when Burnham’s protégé, David Granger, (albeit now quite long in the tooth!) became President in 2015, after the PPP demitted office, even though they expressed concerns via the Courts. Even though he’d tried to convey a sanctimonious, unctuous demeanour, the “paramountcy” giveaway was his insistence on interpreting the Constitution any way he chose to. He never really conceded that he and his party were subject to the rules of a democracy.

It was this assumption that led to the blatant rigging attempt by GECOM Secretariat staff like Mingo, who were loyal to the PNC. And when this was headed off at the pass by the international community -including Caricom - they then launched a new but more insidious attack on our democracy, which will certainly destroy it like those coconut “cockles” do to coconut trees. This attack came in the form of outrageously claiming that the entire electoral system - which was introduced and fine-tuned since 1992 - has been subverted by the PPP from the Opposition benches!!

So we hear claims that the PNC (Let’s forget the nonsense about any “coalition”!) actually won the elections because the PPP had thousands and thousands of dead and emigrated people voting for them! Never mind it was the same Secretariat that gave us Mingo &Co., hired the thousands of polling station staff, and that there were reps of ALL the political parties - including the PNC - at every polling station!

This is now an article of faith with almost half of the country, who voted for the PNC. How could they be so gullible, you ask? …logic Well, let’s look right over to the US, where folks are supposed to be “educated” and “logical” and having all those qualities we were lacking, so we had to be tutored for centuries to bring us up to their level. There, a vast majority of the people who voted for Trump - almost 75% according to a Reuters Poll - believe he won. Never mind the Courts threw out more than a dozen petitions of one sort or another.

So how do the Americans explain this phenomenon which might shed some light on our identical scenario?

First, they pointed out the level of misinformation that was sent out by the Republicans. Sounds familiar? Another was the top leaders supporting this conspiracy line. Sounds familiar? Extreme partisanship was also touted. Sounds familiar?

So, let’s not expect our Courts’ throwing out the PNC’s petitions will change anything. We’ve seen that the present PNC leadership under Granger and Co. will not play by democratic rules. For democracy to live, they’ll have to go. …a viable Georgetown Another institution that needs to be cleaned up is the Georgetown City Council. Weren’t there several COIs held into the running of the runnings in that nest of vipers?

Either they be straightened out, or we get that new city.

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

NEWS

9

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

$300M Georgetown Restoration

City Council yet to respond to damning audit findings

O

ver two years have passed since the Audit Office conducted a special audit into the $300 million Georgetown Restoration programme and presented the findings to a Commission of Inquiry, and the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) is yet to respond to the audit’s damning findings.

It is customary when an audit into an agency is conducted, to afford that agency the right of reply. Such was done with the M&CC in the case of the interim audit findings of May 2018.

But according to Auditor General Deodat Sharma’s 2019 report, the council and its treasury department are yet to respond to the Audit Office.

“The audit was requested by the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee.

Further, the request was made during a meeting held on 6 February 2017, where the audit findings of the MoC for the year 2016 were being discussed,” the Audit Report explained. “The Head of Budget Agency indicated that the Ministry has since written the City Treasurer to make all information available. Recommendation:

Anonymous caller leads Police to body at Goed Fortuin

A

49-year-old man was found dead by Police at his Goed Fortuin, West Bank Demerara (WBD) home after an anonymous caller informed Police of the body.

Dead is Gopaul Bissoon called “Dona” of Barclay Street, Goed Fortuin, WBD. Police said they received a phone call at about 13:20h on Friday from an unknown caller, stating that a body was lying at the Goed Fortuin, WBD address.

Acting on the information received, a party of Police officers went to the location, and upon their arrival, they noticed the body of the man lying motionlessly on his back.

Checks were made on the body for marks of violence, but none was seen, Police said.

It was reported that Bissoon lived with his brother and was known to drink excessively, and also suffered from epilepsy.

He was last seen alive by his brother on Friday at about 13:00 walking in his yard. He was taken by Police to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The body is at the Ezekiel Funeral Home, awaiting a post-mortem examination.

Investigations are ongoing.

The Audit Office once again recommends that the Municipality responds urgently to the findings contained in the interim audit report.”

In the report, the Audit Office reminded that the sum of $300M which was budgeted for the Georgetown restoration and enhancement initiatives was shown as expended as at December 31, 2019. One of the audit findings is that a vehicle was purchased for the Mayor, which was not in the capital profile. Despite this, approval for inclusion to programme was seen.

“Included in the amount of $300M were sums totalling $173.658M which were paid over to the Town Clerk,

and at the time of reporting, Financial Statements were not received for the years 2006, 2008 to 2011, and 2017 to 2019.”

Back in October 2018, a Commission of Inquiry

(COI) heard that over $70 million was unaccounted for from the City Restoration Fund, while there were no financial records for the years 2006 to 2011.

This was according to the finance records from the Audit Office of Guyana, which were presented by the Audit Manager Dhanraj Persaud at the CoI which was chaired by retired Justice Cecil Kennard.

As he delved into the matter, Persaud had showed that Central Government, through the Communities Ministry, had supplied funds for city restoration projects in the sum of $300 million in 2015 and in 2016; another $200 million was injected into the initia-

tive, for a total of $500 million. However, when checks were made into the expenditure of these projects, over $70.489 million was unaccounted for.

The CoI into City Hall came at a time when numerous complaints were made by staffers of the Council and other agencies regarding the expenditure and decisions which were taken by the Council.

Consequently, actions were taken by the Local Government Commission to probe the operations at City Hall. The then Town Clerk, Royston King, was also instructed to proceed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.

the hospital but during this time, the injured man left with a neighbour to seek medical attention. She recalled that the incident occurred at about 01:30h on New Year’s Day. Balgobin told this publication that on her way to the hospital, a car brought her brother back home from the hospital.

When the car stopped, she said she recognised that her brother was bleeding profusely from the head and she brought this to the attention of the others in the car but was told that the wound to his head was sutured at the hospital and he

was sent home.

“So, I jump in the car and took him to the Reliance Police Station and they give me a paper and tell me to take him to the New Amsterdam Hospital.”

Balgobin said she subsequently took her brother back to the hospital but the staff claimed that he was already treated by a doctor and there was nothing they could do.

As time went on and Andiappan’s condition worsened, he was taken to the hospital for the third time. “…and then is when they do whatever they had to do but shortly after the doc-

tor told us that he is in a critical condition and they were about to take him to Georgetown but they say that he can’t travel because the brain already cease and he don’t have long to live so they just have to wait until,” she said with tears in her eyes.

Andiappan subsequently died.

According to Balgobin, neighbours who reportedly witnessed the incident said that Andiappan was beaten by several villagers.

However, the reason behind the beating is still unknown.

Police have since detained two persons.

City Hall

Mayor & Councillors of the City of Georgetown (MCC).

It should be noted that the MCC is subject to separate reporting and audit. The last audit for this entity was done for the year 2004,

Cattle farmer dies after being beaten

A

cattle farmer is now dead after he was allegedly beaten in East Canje, Berbice. However, the man’s family is blaming medical personnel at the New Amsterdam Hospital, who had treated the farmer and sent him away.

Dead is 58-year-old Arjunan Andiappan, a labourer of Kalabash Creek, Canje River, Berbice, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).

The incident reportedly occurred at Wallis Street.

The now dead man’s sister, Tangache Balgobin, told the Police that she heard of the incident and went to the

Dead: 58-year-old Arjunan Andiappan

scene, which was a few houses away, and saw her brother bleeding from his head.

The woman said she left, went home and got prepared to take her brother to

10 NEWS

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Police must play influential role in communities – Top Cop …as 297 junior cops promoted

T

he Guyana Police Force has announced the promotion of 297 junior ranks. These include 86 officers promoted to the rank of Sergeant, 116 ranks to Corporal and 41 ranks to Lance Corporal. Ten ranks were elevated to Special Sergeant, 23 to Special Corporal and 19 ranks to Special Lance Corporal.

Additionally, one Rural Constable was promoted to Rural Sergeant. These junior rank promotions were made by Police Commissioner Nigel Hoppie. In his New Year message, Commissioner Hoppie noted that the end of 2020 signals the end of a period where members of the law enforcement community were faced with allegations of robbery, manslaughter, assault, and corruption. “Indeed, the issues that arose were all of grave concern which caused us to focus on the modus operandi and standard operational procedures we have in place.

We have modified some SOPs and have created new ones where necessary, and we are also in the process of updating our Standing Orders. Suffice it to say that we are ready to face whatever challenges confront us in 2021, as we consolidate on the gains of 2020,” he noted.

According to the Top Cop, amidst the negatives of last year, some positives were recorded such as confronting challenges of the criminal community which has resulted in a 6.8 per cent decrease in serious crimes.

He also mentioned the Force’s significant role during the March 2020 elections and the subsequent transition of governments, as well as in the ongoing fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

Notwithstanding this, however, Commissioner Hoppie charged that 2021 must see greater involvement in community work, community outreach and community

Full list of ranks promoted to Sergeant 1. 19204 Corporal Harvey 2. 15572 W/Corporal Gravesande

60. 22787 Corporal James

31. 19348 Corporal Bowen

4. 18250 Corporal Adolphus

32. 19481 Corporal Azore

5. 19432 W/Corporal Bentham

33. 21179 Corporal Melville

62. 23203 W/Corporal Ross-Singh

34. 21944 Corporal Matthew

63. 23667 W/Corporal Azore

35. 22307 Corporal Roberts

64. 23690 Corporal Hoyte

36. 22434 W/ Corporal Dundas

65. 22132 Corporal Mansaram

37. 19186 Corporal Grant

66. 22428 W/ Corporal Browne

7. 17696 W/Corporal Frank-Angoy 8. 21126 Corporal Reynolds

involvement with emphasis on moulding youths in keeping with the Force’s thrust to build public confidence.

“We must be seen as playing an influential role in the communities,” he posited. In congratulating the newly promoted ranks, the Police Commissioner urged them to see this as a greater step towards higher heights within the Force. Meanwhile, he encouraged those who were not promoted to continue to work hard so that they too can reap rewards. The Top Cop also thanked members of the Community Policing Groups for their support throughout 2020 and urged that they maintain the quality of their work with the highest level of professionalism, trust and integrity. The promotion of these junior police ranks comes at a time when the senior cop’s promotion, which is done by the Police Service Commission, is being challenged in the court.

30. 20966 Corporal Layne

58. 22543 Corporal Anys 59. 22614 Corporal Rooplall

3.19115 Corporal Nicholson

6. 19244 Corporal Raghubir

Police Commissioner Nigel Hoppie

29. 19190 Corporal Joe

9. 17699 W/Corporal Grainger 10. 15665 Corporal Wynter 11. 19440 Corporal Alexander

38. 21221 W/Corporal Hardy 39. 21226 W/ Corporal Stewart

40. 22150 W/Corporal 12. 19998 W/ Corporal Collins Brummell 13. 20458 W/Corporal Halley-Fraser 14. 18581 Corporal Persaud 15. 19802 Corporal Jordan 16. 19350 Corporal Johnson 17. 20134 Corporal Boston

61. 22858 Corporal Anderson

67. 22879 W/Corporal Cummings 68. 21432 Corporal Douglas 69. 22739 Corporal Hakim

41. 22463 W/Corporal Smith

70. 22279 Corporal Trotz

42. 19111 Corporal Harry

71. 19786 Corporal Grant

43. 20403 W/Corporal Allison

72. 23709 Corporal Sedoc

44. 20778 Corporal Lalbachan 73. 24364 Corporal Galloway 45. 20974 Corporal Beaton

46. 21172 W/Corporal 18. 20585 Corporal Alexander Lynch-Davis 19. 20717 Corporal Balliram

47. 22127 Corporal Hinds

20. 20529 W/ Corporal Lawrence

48. 20805 W/ Corporal Pinheiro

21. 21012 Corporal D’ Andrade

49. 21823 Corporal Reid

74. 20562 Corporal John 75. 14174 Corporal Lambert 76. 22389 W/ Corporal Williams 77. 17833 Corporal Sharper 78. 19909 Corporal Glasgow

50. 21962 Corporal Bacchus

79.20240 W/ Corporal Marshall

51. 20534 Corporal John

80. 19833 Corporal Chapman

23. 21299 Corporal Scott

52. 20730 Corporal Hyman

81. 21019 Corporal Williams

24. 17378 Corporal James

53. 21157 Corporal Tobin

82. 20853 Corporal Leitch

25. 18454 Corporal Haywood

54. 21258 Corporal North

83. 15908 Corporal Vaughn

26. 21063 Corporal Jameer

55. 21608 W/ Corporal Mc Phoy

84. 22575 Corporal Pickering

27. 17858 Corporal Comacho

56. 21682 Corporal Boucher

28. 20085 Corporal Nicholas

57. 21633 Corporal Wills

22. 21174 Corporal Mohamed

85. 20674 Corporal Joseph 86. 21066 Corporal Hamilton

NEWS

11

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Active COVID-19 cases decrease further …only 3 new cases recorded

T Leadership strategies in ethnic conflict

(The following was part of a longer paper, “For a New Political Culture”, presented to the three major political parties (the PNC, PPP, and WPA) in 1990 to serve as a background document for a symposium on “Race and Politics”. The WPA jettisoned the initiative when they insisted they had solved the racial problematic.) n modern multi-ethnic societies, ethnic relations are essentially group power-contests. In these contests, the role of leadership is crucial as well as inevitable. In fact, there are those who claim that ethnic contests are no more than the Machiavellian intrigues of some power-hungry politicians: this is a popular view in Guyana.

One often hears the refrain that “Burnham and Jagan caused all this trouble.”

The truth has to a bit more complex than that, however, for leaders can never lead followers where the latter have no predisposition to go.

And it does not explain why the most successful and the least successful are often the most vociferous supporters Ravi Dev of the ethnic enterprise.

The reality in Guyana is that politics has been ethnicised, and it is for this reason that the strategies employed by the leaders of the various ethnic blocs have such importance. By not understanding, or not accepting the ethnic impact of each policy decision, or, for that matter, every proposal for action, leaders may aggravate the situation as much by what they do as what they do not do.

Leaders have to appreciate the power implications on each ethnic group of every act that they perform.

Power has two major attributes – resources and their mobilisation. The resources of the group include the group’s total numbers, physical and financial assets, social organisation, culture and belief system, and education and skills. But especially, in the Third World, the control of the armed forces and bureaucracy and the other state institutions are key resources.

Mobilisation capabilities have to be defined in more behavioural terms, and include the group’s morale, motivation, cohesiveness, and strategic ability to cope with new situations. All of these, of course, are summarised by the word “leadership”. One group may possess superior resources, but given ineffective leadership, it cannot mobilise its resources against another group possessing fewer resources but superior mobilisational capabilities.

In Guyana where there are two groups of almost equal size, Africans and Indians, the PNC - the leaders of the African group - apparently after assessing their resources, believe that they can achieve power through violent confrontation and intimidation. The temptation to consolidate ethnic leadership by aggravating conflict and appealing to violence appears easier, swifter, and seems especially attractive if it fits in with the group’s mindset. With the inter-twining of Group worth and Group entitlement in the African-Guyanese community, and their demographic ethnic fear of being swamped, the PNC understands that most Africans will support them fully in their efforts to seize total power. This, in their view, is their “birthright”.

Burnham exploited this fear when he mobilised Africans in the sixties. He constructed a racist, almost totalitarian state, and augmented the power resources of the African segment by building a massive armed force and nationalising 80% of the economy, which he proceeded to staff with Africans. He was determined to use the “control” option of holding on to power. His successor, Hugh Desmond Hoyte, attempted to hold on to power, but also to rebuild the shattered economy.

His “opening up” of the economy to private enterprise was still dominated by ethnic concerns: the three largest foreign inputs into the Guyanese economy, all not so coincidentally hired predominantly African work-forces – the first, as a former Government entity, came with the appropriate staff requirement.

Hoyte lost power because he did not have the chutzpah to face down the US, who had no communist threat by 1990, as Burnham would have done. He agreed to “free and fair” elections, which he lost in 1992; he has not been totally forgiven by the African population for this indiscretion. Hoyte does not appear to be a very creative leader, but he appears to have become emboldened by the US’ notoriously short attention span on Third World politics, especially if they have no economic or strategic interests, as they do not in Guyana.

He seems determined to recapture power by imitating the violent destabilisation tactics that his mentor Burnham used in the early sixties.

I

he active cases of COVID-19 in Guyana are rapidly decreasing as more patients recover and as of Saturday, these numbers decreased to 290.

The Health Ministry’s dashboard showed that only three new cases were detected in one day - all of which were from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica).

Now, the number of confirmed cases is at 6351 with 164 deaths.

There are four persons in the Intensive Care Unit, 10 in institutional isolation, 279 in home isolation and 21 in institutional quarantine. From the 3281 males and 3070 females that tested positive, 5894 have recovered.

A breakdown showed that 937 cases were confirmed in Region One (Barima-Waini), 189 in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), 452 in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara), 2716 in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica), 100 in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), 304 in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), 542 in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), 197 in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), 396 in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo)

and 518 in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

The Pan American Health Organisation surmised at the end of 2020 that the COVID-19 pandemic swept through every country in the Americas in 2020, infecting more than 35 million people and causing some 850,000 deaths.

“Globally, COVID-19 affected 216 countries and territories, causing more than 80 million cases and 1.7 million deaths worldwide. The Americas was the most affected continent in a context of large ineq-

Father of 4 gunned down

gunshot wound to the upper back, Police said.

Acting upon information received, the Police arrested the 29-year-old suspect, who is presently in custody assisting with the investigation.

Smith’s body is at the GHPC Morgue awaiting a post-mortem examination (PME).

Dead: Paul Anthony Smith, aka “Blacka”

W

hile many children were blessed with the opportunity to have their father for the New Year, the four children of a clothes vendor were deprived of that opportunity when their father was gunned down at the East Coast Bus Park, Georgetown, on Friday.

Dead is 32-year-old Paul Anthony Smith called “Blacka” of Lot 31 Bent Street Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown, who was shot during a row over a female. Reports are the incident occurred at about 18:30h at Commerce Street, Georgetown, where Smith was observed holding a cutlass and heading to his car when he was shot by another male, who is also a clothes vendor at Longden and Commerce Streets. After being shot, Smith fell onto the front passenger seat of his car. He was picked up by public-spirited citizens and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where he was pronounced dead. He bore one

uities,” a statement analysed.

At the start of the pandemic, PAHO said it activated an organisation-wide response through regional and country incident management system teams.

The Organisation worked with countries to support their surveillance, testing and laboratory capacity; and prepare and strengthen healthcare services, infection prevention control, clinical management, and risk communication.

PAHO focused on helping countries rapidly detect cases, protect their health workers, reduce transmission, and save lives, providing training, logistical support, vital equipment and supplies, and emergency planning. To complement PAHO resources in 27 country offices, personnel and supplies were mobilised to train national health authorities, support national emergency plans, and assess reorganisation of health services.

“The global scientific

community raced to identify and assess the efficacy of potential therapeutics for caring for persons sickened by COVID-19. To help countries navigate the deluge of information, PAHO reviewed findings from over 1700 clinical trials and 58 therapeutic options to enable health authorities to take evidence-backed decisions for patient care.

In addition, 111 technical guidelines and recommendations were developed or tailored to the Americas from WHO documents.”

Global partnerships like the COVAX Facility are also pooling resources to ensure that countries have equal access to safe and effective vaccines under the same timelines. PAHO’s Revolving Fund, through which 41 countries and territories pool their resources to procure high-quality vaccines, syringes and related supplies for their populations at the lowest price, is expected to play a significant role in the COVID-19 fight.

12 NEWS 3 dead on Berbice roadway in first 2 days of 2021 T SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

hree persons have lost their lives on the roads in Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), within the first two days of the New Year.

The first accident occurred at 04:00h on New Year’s Day on the West Coast of Berbice, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), and the

Dead are 27-year-old Parmanand Kalamadeen of Woodley Park, West Coast Berbice; 36-year-old Nimrod Persaud and 26-year-old Thurman Megnat, both of Line Path.

According to the Police, the Line Path, Corentyne accident occurred on Saturday evening on the public road

The car which the Corentyne businessman was driving at the time of the accident

The taxi Kalamadeen was driving when he slammed into a fence

second, which occurred at about 18:00h on January 2, at Line Path, Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), took the lives of two persons.

and involved motor car PYY 7581 driven by a 38-year-old businessman of Number 76 Village, Corentyne, and motor car PLL 4090 driven by

Megnat, 26, of Lot 12 Line Path.

Reports are that PYY 7581 was proceeding north along the western drive lane while PLL 4090 was proceeding south along the eastern drive lane. The driver of PYY 7581 alleged that as he was in the process of passing PLL 4090 the said car swerved into his lane and collided head-on.

As a result of the collision, both drivers and Persaud received injuries about their bodies and were all taken to Skeldon Public Hospital where Megnat and Persaud were pronounced dead on arrival. The businessman’s condition was regarded as stable.

A breathalySer test was conducted on him and no trace of alcohol was detected.

Police have since launched an investigation.

Meanwhile, on Friday morning a taxi driver, Parmanand Kalamadeen, slammed into a fence along the Number 42 West Coast Berbice Public Road, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice).

It was the first reported road death for 2021. Police said the accident occurred at about 04:00 on New Year’s morning.

According to the Police, Kalamadeen was driving motor car HC 8700 at a fast rate of speed when he lost

The car in which Nimrod Persaud and Thurman Megnat were travelling at the time of the accident

control of the said vehicle.

Kalamadeen was later pulled out of the car in an unconscious state and taken to the Fort Wellington Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

His 22-year-old wife, Lorina John, said she last spoke with her husband at about 02:00h on New Year’s morning.

According to her, at about 02:00h on New Year’s Day, he received a telephone call and indicated that he had to make a trip to Georgetown (55 miles away).

“And he left and I didn’t see him back,” the grieving woman said.

The mother of two is said to be expecting her third child later this week.

“They say he sway from a pig, we don’t know, we are just hearing what people are saying. When we go, all his money gone, his bag, his phone – everything gone. When I go in the mortuary and see him lie down on the bed he don’t have no scratch on him only the windscreen fall and damage a piece of his hand,” the dead man’s mother, Jaclyn O’Neal, told this publication.

Reports are that the car was also vandalised.

Police are also investigating that accident. (Andrew Carmichael)

FEATURE

13

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

COVID-19 provided Give Another Chance Foundation with opportunity to shine light on benefits of Emotional Intelligence

By Lakhram Bhagirat

T

he coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has impacted not just the economic and social aspects of society but it has deeply affected the mental well-being of everyone. The idea of being holed up in our homes is one that causes a lot of undue stress.

Children, 'on a regular', have great difficulties in articulating their emotions because that is even a great task for fully-grown adults.

The Give Another Chance Foundation (GACF) has been focusing on the mental well-being of children, encouraging them to articulate their feelings through the promotion of Emotional Intelligence or EQ, as it is also known which stands for emotional quotient.

GACF President Alechia Amos, Founder Miranda Thakur-Deen and Director Terrence Jaskaran recently sat down with Guyana Times and they discussed the importance of the work they have been doing.

The organisation runs its programmes under four pillars – Good Health and Well-Being, Ray of Hope for Generation Good, Give Another Chance, and Access to Quality Education. The EQ component can be categorised as part of every pillar of the GACF’s work. GACF was birthed from the concept of charity begins at home. Though it has been in existence for just over 10 years, GACF’s principals have been engaged in charity work for much longer.

Thakur-Deen founded GACF to supplement the work she had been doing throughout Guyana.

The non-profit Non-Governmental Organisation has a track record for helping to improve the lives of chil-

depression and metal dren across the country. health are real. EQ also GACF is committed assists parents in underto helping to provide edstanding the emotions ucation from pre-school so that they could relate to university, and health to their children,” Amos care to underprivileged said. children in rural and urThe organisation is ban communities. It is actively working on getthe belief of the organisating EQ to be incorpotion that whether you are rated into the school addressing health care, curriculum, and has poverty, population consince met with Director trol, unemployment or GACF President Alechia Amos, Founder Miranda of the Child Care and human rights, there is no Thakur-Deen, and Director Terrence Jaskaran Protection Agency, Ann better place to start than vour with the trustees, but the perGreene and Minister of in the corridors of education. According to the GACF Facebook sistence of its founder saw the Board Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud whereby they page, the vision is to provide children acceding.

“This year is our third year that are working on proposals to achieve and young adults with the building we had EQ activities. We would usu- same. blocks for a better future.

Because of the COVID-19 guideWith mindfulness and the courage ally carry it out a day before World to make a change, the Foundation Children’s Day or a day after because lines, GACF for 2020 shifted all of its has accepted that responsibility. Its the day would usually fall on a school activities online utilising virtual platmain aim is to provide children and day. The schools have embraced it forms. It could not have hosted its young adults with the necessary re- and what our celebration would in- annual EQ walk so the organisation sources and tools to ensure that they clude was a walk from Parliament shifted online and had various townhave the chance to evolve into pro- Buildings to Burnham Court and our hall-styled meetings, training semichildren would have placards saying nars and workshops for members and ductive citizens.

According to PsychCentral, ‘love yourself’ and other things,” she invitees.

Though not a sizable NGO, its Emotional Intelligence is the ability explained.

The overall purpose and benefit of reach this year was vast, since its acto understand, use, and manage your own emotions in positive ways to re- promoting EQ is to help children un- tivities included participants from lieve stress, communicate effective- derstand their emotions and, accord- the Ministry of Education, UNICEF, ly, empathise with others, overcome ing to Amos, the organisation believes University of Guyana, First Lady that if it plays its part in nurturing Arya Ali and experts on EQ. challenges and defuse conflict.

“Our focus is children, but this Emotional Intelligence helps you children from a tender age, that could build stronger relationships, succeed result in a generation of strength and also plays a great deal in adults' lives, because many of us are brought up at school and work, and achieve your positivity.

“EQ is understanding oneself and in environments where our parents career and personal goals. It can also help you to connect with your feel- emotions, thinking positively and dif- don’t teach us how to manage our ings, turn intention into action, and fusing conflict, communicating with emotions and how to feel. With the make informed decisions about what others, expressing empathy. These crisis of suicide, EQ could greatly asare the things we want our kids to sist in that because it is finding onematters most to you.

GACF’s President explained that learn and to know because of late we self, understanding one’s emotions when the idea of promoting EQ was find that there is a lot of conflict on and to know that there is more to raised as one of the projects of the or- our schools. Now with COVID-19, you life,” Amos posited.

In addition to its plethora of proganisation, it did not initially find fa- see the real purpose of EQ because

grammes, the GACF is also introducing free lessons for Grades Five and Six students who are behind owing to their lack of access to virtual means of learning. The programme will be introduced this month in the East Ruimveldt and Tuschen areas.

Founder Thakur-Deen related that even with COVID-19 pulling the curtains on the various fundraising events and limiting donors’ contributions, GACF still distributed over 600 gifts to children across the country.

Adhering to the strict COVID-19 guidelines, GACF held its annual Christmas tree light-up on Wakenaam Island, where it was joined by representatives of the Government.

“We knew that we wanted to light up Christmas tree. We knew we wanted to share gifts with experiencing what the children would have gone through for the past nine months.

For us, we said we are going to do it small, because we knew the economic challenges of some of our donors so we said we are not going to pressure them for donations. We knew that this is the least you can do for the kids this Christmas after all they went through,” Thakur-Deen said.

“We had to cut out our fundraising totally. We would do fundraising by selling food, having a little bar, have attractions for the kids and that for the past five years have been able to give us a $300,000-$400,000 profit that we look forward to because that takes us into the next year to start our Access to Education backpack initiative and our lessons that we would pay for children,” she added.

The GACF continues to work on expanding its four pillars to ensure the better life of all children across Guyana.

14 FEATURE

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BUSINESS AND COVID-19

Govt-arranged moratoriums with commercial banks helped businesses – PSC

T

he novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has not only devastated people’s lives, but also the global economy. In Guyana, the situation is no different.

The country recorded its first COVID-19 case on March 11, 2020 and by the following week, authorities announced a shutdown of all ports of entry along with a 6pm to 6am curfew. The outbreak of the virus in Guyana was coupled with the March 2020 elections in Guyana, which had already caused uncertainty in the business sector.

The electoral process would eventually run on for five months before a government was finally sworn in, but COVID-19 continues to rattle the country.

Not only have more than 6000 citizens contracted the virus, with over 160 dying, but many businesses have been severely affected by the pandemic, and this impact has naturally trickled down to the employees. Scores of persons were placed on the breadline as businesses were forced to shut down, while others, such as frontline and essential workers, had to make sacrifices and risked their lives to continue to work in unprecedented

…says businesses' fixed costs were piling up

PSC Chairman Nicholas Boyer

conditions.

At the beginning of 2020, Guyana had an unprecedented growth trajectory stemming from the oil and gas activities offshore. However, this quickly changed with the COVID-19 outbreak here.

Several sectors took a bigger hit than others during this time. The entertainment, tourism, and hospitality industries were the most affected, with businesses suffering as much as 80 per cent losses. The retail sector saw a significant dip in performance as well, recording between some 20 to 50 per cent losses.

Private Sector Commission (PSC) Chairman Nicholas Boyer explained that even the essential busi-

nesses, which remained resilient throughout the pandemic, in some instances have still experienced a slowdown.

“For instance, businesses in the grocery sector have noticed that some of the luxury items they sell have not moved as fast as they would before. But the basic necessities are moving as they were, if not better. So, that’s what the pandemic has done to the country. It has caused an overall impact across all the sectors.”

Boyer is sitting on the Commission as President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) – a position he still holds. He joined the GCCI membership in the capacity of Director of National Hardware Ltd – one of the country’s major retailers that were also affected by the fallout of COVID-19.

“At National Hardware, we had noticed that it was a bit challenging.

Imports were a bit lower than last year; sales were also commensurately lower. We obviously had to do a little discounting and promotions. So that means selling at lower prices to even move a decent volume of goods because

we have a certain amount of overheads and expenses that are incurred no matter, whether we open our doors or not. So, for us, we need a certain amount of sales. Even if we shut our doors, we would still need to transact a certain amount of business to be able to pay those overheads.

It has been a very tough year, and I don’t think we’re very unlike many other businesses. All businesses faced the same challenges, where their

“We’re not taking back the relationship. Businesses help to create wealth, help to generate jobs and it is the role of Government to facilitate the growth and development of businesses. At the same time, we facilitate the development of our human resources. We ensure that we collect enough revenue so that all of our population can have the best possible [welfare].”

Meanwhile, the Private

A section of Regent Street, Georgetown, back in March just after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in Guyana, while the country was enduring an electoral impasse

fixed costs were piling up.”

However, the PSC Chairman said that one of the things that helped businesses was the commercial banks providing moratoriums.

“If we can get that sort of relief where those monthly finance payments we have to make to the banks whether they are vehicle loans, equipment loans, or mortgage loans of buildings – if we don’t have to put cash flow towards that, it is cash flow that we can use to pay employment costs and other costs. So that has been helpful."

Only last week, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government announced the extension of several banking measures to relieve the burden of citizens during the pandemic until June 2021. These measures, which were put in place back in August by President Dr Irfaan Ali shortly after assuming office, include lowered interest rates and an extension of the moratorium on loan payments.

This was just one of the initiatives implemented by the new PPP/C Administration to restore the country’s economy.

In fact, the Ali-led Government took several decisions to ensure that Guyana did not go into an economic recession, including some measures that brought relief to the Private Sector.

But the new regime came under heavy criticism for being “too business-friendly”.

Responding to the criticism, President Ali said at the launch of the Canada-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (CGCC) on December 4, 2020 that his Government wanted to make Guyana more business-friendly.

Sector has welcomed the reopening of the economy.

Boyer said that the resolution of the electoral deadlock has restored investors’ confidence in the economy.

“To be fair, I have to say from August to now, our economy has actually been fairly resilient given the COVID-19 crisis… Definitely, we’re doing lower than our total sales last year, but overall compared to the Region – looking at what’s going on in other countries in the Caribbean as well as in Latin American – I don’t see the same sort of slowdown here as I see in those countries. That’s what gives me confidence and the fact that we have clarity and certainty about what Government plans are…. So, for businesses like myself, what we’re doing is still investing in Guyana, because we know once that pandemic comes to an end, our country is really going to take off. So, that has somewhat mitigated the really hard effects of the pandemic on businesses.”

In fact, the GCCI President disclosed that the Chamber’s membership has expressed confidence in the economy, because they know the potential there is for growth, despite the pandemic and its impact.

“Everybody wants to be a part of that growth story, so everybody is investing now, because a lot of what we’re talking about in the membership is new facilities, additional product lines, and those are things that take months, if not years to bring into effect. That’s what we’re noticing people are doing.

They’re putting in the investments for those longterm facilities or long-term additions to their businesses so that they can be a part of the growth that is coming.”

Going into 2021, the PSC Chairman related that they expect a boom in a number of the sectors especially those that were thriving prior to the pandemic. These include the construction sector, which he noted, is going to bloom with the hype about new projects and new investments.

Boyer posited that this meant new housing would be needed, as well as new warehousing, new manufacturing facilities – all of which require construction.

He also lauded the efforts of the various ministries, particularly the Agriculture Ministry that is pushing activities throughout the country, thus, a boom in the rural economies is expected.

“Those rural economies had stagnated over the past couple of years.

So, with agriculture bringing some revitalisation in those rural economies to the east and west of the country, it really gives us confidence…

Because since the closure of the sugar estates, at National Hardware for instance, the smaller hardware stores that we supply goods to and contractors in those regions, they were very pessimistic about the outlook with the closure of sugar estates and an uncertainty of what would happen to the rural economies in those places. But now, they have a certainty that those economies are going to grow and they see projects being developed for those economies and therefore, people are willing to invest and willing to, in my case, take products again after reducing the amounts they were taking.”

According to the PSC Chairman, the only speed limit for the country doing business as usual now is the COVID-19 pandemic.

Notwithstanding, Boyer said the Private Sector was looking forward to a very robust infrastructure plan from the Government this year.

Some of these major projects that are on stream to kick off this year are the new Demerara Harbour Bridge, the bridge to Suriname, the road to Parika from West Bank Demerara and the expansion of the highway to Berbice.

“When you kick the country into a construction phase like this, it is a form of stimulus that helps us through this coronavirus pandemic, because infrastructure creates construction jobs and those jobs get monies into certain sections of the populations and they, in turn, spend it in the communities where these construction partnerships are from. For us, we are looking forward to that sort of stimulus moving forward and allow this country to sort of ride through this coronavirus pandemic."

FEATURE

15

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER AMID A GLOBAL PANDEMIC…

FTCSF, Bon Appétit 592 manage to put smiles on the faces of Linden children

By Utamu Belle

S

preading holiday cheer was a bit different in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) this time around, as Guyana and the world continue to adapt to changes regarding social distancing guidelines due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

For organisations in the community, it meant being creative and finding new means of reaching out to children who would usually look forward to events such as toy donation drives and Christmas parties.

The non-governmental organisation (NGO), For the Children Sake Foundation (FTCSF), has been organising and undertaking such events around the holiday season for years. Similarly, Bon Appétit 592, a food establishment, has begun what is set to become an annual toy drive event, even in light of the challenges.

Executive Director of FTCSF, Vernon Todd told the Sunday Times Magazine that even though the organisation was unable to host its usual annual initiative by gathering children from the community, it worked hard at ensuring that the children did not feel left out around the holidays.

“Because of COVID, we were not able to have our usual Christmas party but we endeavoured to still have our annual toy drive and distribution,” he explained.

Instead of having the children together in one area as is customary, the organisation decided to dis-

tribute toys by doing house-to-house deliveries, to avoid crowding and in keeping with the COVID-19 regulations. Todd said the organisation’s distribution of toys to less fortunate families continued even in light of the pandemic since it believes that every child should smile on Christmas day.

“Yes, this usually is an annual event but we usually distribute the toys we accumulate at a Christmas party for the children. Our inspiration for this event came from realising that Christmas means a lot to children. It’s the holiday that they look forward to and one that excites them the most, but it can be extremely disappointing for some as there is no Christmas tree or toys waiting for them. We at For the Children Sake Foundation understand that not every family would be fortunate to be able to afford the luxury of toys for their kids. We understand that their priority may be different depending on how little they have,” Todd related.

The activity was aimed at bringing joy to those children so that they can feel the excitement and hope that they have during the Christmas season.

“They should be able to hold on to the Christmas spirit for as long as they can,” Todd said.

The organisation targeted low-income families

in its distribution drives.

The non-governmental, non-profit, charitable organisation went about organising the event by seeking donations and contributions from its members, the business community and other persons in the community who sought to contribute to the initiative.

“The support has been good. We did have persons making donations and pledges, but in comparison to the previous years (it) could have been better, but we understand the difficulties that existed with the current pandemic. And we extend immense gratitude to the persons who contributed to making this activity possible,” Todd said, as he explained that there were quite a few setbacks due to COVID-19.

“Yes, we have had a few setbacks as a result of COVID-19. Usually, a party and gift distribution attract

hundreds of children but in keeping with the COVID-19 regulations, we would have had to go back to the drawing board and come up with a way of delivering this needed service to our children without endangering them. So, we did lower our target amount and decided to deliver the gifts house to house in the interest of preserving our health and that of the children,” Todd noted.

Given that the activity is an annual one, Todd said the FTCSF plans to continue but shared his hope that the challenges associated with COVID-19 would eventually be eradicated so that the organisation can reach more children.

However, in the meantime, he advised all to follow the necessary protocols.

“Christmas is the season for giving and sharing and while we encourage this for the benefit of the families that welcome such events, we encourage other organisations or persons interested in planning such events

to do it in keeping with the COVID-19 regulations as health is always a priority; and just be innovative in delivering their service,” he advised.

Meanwhile, sole proprietor of Bon Appétit 592, Kenisha Fernandes also hosted her first toy drive and lunch initiative for children in the Danjou Hill, Christianburg community where she grew up. The young entrepreneur said this will become an annual event in moving forward, owing to the many responses she received with regards to the donation of toys. She shared that she was inspired to show appreciation to children in the area which is regarded as a “ghetto”.

“My inspiration came from my grandmother, Ms Irene Castello. She has a huge heart and is always ready to give even if it is her last. There's a saying she uses quite often, ‘Freely give, freely receive. You never know where your blessing might come from’,” Fernandes related.

The businesswoman said the event aimed to say “thank you” to the community for supporting her small business which was started

in June 2020 and to spread some holiday cheer, regardless of the issues being faced with the pandemic.

She decided to target children because “no one looks forward to this time of year like they do... I created a flyer and promoted my event via my social media platforms. It began to reach a wider margin when two other small businesses from here in Linden started to advertise my event on their social media platforms. I'm grateful to the CEOs of Electronic Works and A&J Interior Dealing for selflessly putting in the effort. All responses were extremely positive and persons got on board in no time,” Fernandes noted.

She said the setbacks were minor and were quickly overcome. According to Fernandes, support in times like these is welcomed more than ever.

“My encouragement would be to always take note of who supports you genuinely. Those are the people you should always keep around. Associate with people of vision and people who inspire and motivate you to reach your dreams and goals,” she encouraged.

16 FEATURE

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

HEALTH TIPS

STAYING FIT AND HEALTHY IN 2021

Dr Tariq Jagnarine Family Medicine, Endocrinology/ Diabetes

I

t should come as no surprise that 2020 has certainly brought its fair share of challenges with it.

However, as we look ahead to 2021, many of us would have made various positive resolutions to be fulfilled throughout the year. Some may wish to have more wealth, success, happiness, travel, etc. Let us not forget the number one element needed to enjoy all of these wishes: GOOD HEALTH. It is time to move past the COVID-19 pandemic, and use it as a revelation in being healthier. Starting a new year is always an opportune time for a new beginning and instilling a new habit or two that would lead to a healthier, more fulfilling day-to-day life.

As the situation in 2020 looks to be extending into 2021, it is high time we start considering how we would

keep healthy in the longterm. The harm done by contamination, shoddy nourishment, undesirable ways of life, substance misuse expands the dangers related to well-being.

Improving our health and well-being does not need to be complicated. In fact, great accomplishments are the sum of small steps! Start the New Year off on the right foot by trying some of these suggested health tips: 1. FOR EVERY HOUR OF DESK TIME, STAND UP & MOVE! This is one of the most critical tips that are needed to staying healthy in 2021.

Regardless of whether the work is done from home or

in the office, for every hour of desk time, it is recommended that you stand up and move. This can be as simple as stretching, or going for a brisk walk out and around the office.

2. EXERCISE AS PART OF YOUR DAILY ROUTINE Even 30 minutes of exercising daily is known to balance hormones, manage stress, and manage weight.

It is also important to include some form of physical exercise in your daily routine. Consider bike riding, walking, yoga sessions, or even a run on the treadmill. A solid exercise routine has the ability to de-stress, bring positive energy, enable recuperating, detoxification and newness in a person’s life.

3. M A I N T A I N HEALTHY DIET Eating right is critical in order to give your body the sustenance it requires.

Eating right deals with the basic needs of the body, and addresses any underlying medical problems. Avoid low-quality nourishments, bubbly beverages, caffeine and sweet beverages to spare yourself the unfortunate weight gain, diabetes, hypertension and heart problems.

Eating enough organic products, vegetables, nuts, seeds and fruits can invigorate and advance the body’s working capacity.

4. H E A L T H Y SLEEPING PATTERNS Subsequent to having gone through a whole day shuffling between the gatherings, unpleasant circumstances, food propensities, and getting things done, it is critical to unplug and energise your own body. Practice setting up a devoted opportunity to rest 8 to 10 hours of each night, in order to allow your body to revive and energise from the everyday injury.

5. M I N I M I S E STRESS We live in uncertain times, and things have never been more challenging than they are now. As we look ahead to 2021, a gentle reminder is to minimise stress despite the challenges thrown our way. Tuning in to music, conversing with

companions, composing diaries, reflection, yoga and meditation are just a few ways to help reduce stress.

6. QUIT SMOKING AND DRINKING The social influence, peer pressure situations and emotional turmoil often force people to resort to some sort of relief that comes with consumption of alcohol or tobacco. However, these substances do the most harm to the body, bringing a host of health, emotional and mental issues together. Avoiding tobacco and alcohol can help to restore hormonal imbalance, immunity, and body energy.

7. DRINK MORE WATER Water is detoxifying, and there is no alternative to water. For optimum functioning of the body, proper hydration is necessary.

The single most productive aid to hydration is water. Drinking at least 5 to 8 glasses of water daily is essential to maintaining a healthy digestive tract, energy and balance. Using water throughout the day can help catch up on hydration, enabling the body to heal naturally and flush out the toxins.

8. TAKE A BREAK AND TRAVEL Travelling is a beautiful therapy that gives us a much-needed break from our hectic life. So, whenever possible, go for a short or long trip, keeping COVID safety guidelines in mind.

9. WASH YOUR HANDS FREQUENTLY Make 2021 the year to practise regular personal hygiene. Keep in mind that washing hands frequently is one of the biggest steps to take towards staying healthy and reducing the spread of COVID-19 infection. It can also prevent the spread of other viral illnesses.

10. DON’T BE ‘TOO BUSY’ Amid our busy schedules, do not forget those who are dear to us. Be it our parents, other family members, or friends, keeping in touch is extremely imperative.

11. DON’T IGNORE HEALTH-RELATED

SYMPTOMS Be it a minor rash or headaches, never ignore the signs our body gives, because there could be something underlying. Get timely health checks done, since only an early diagnosis can be the key to better treatment. This 2021, be proactive about our health, rather than being reactive.

12. REDUCE SCREEN TIME Laptops, TVs, or smartphones: try to limit screen time, as it can meddle with our sleep patterns and brain functions, causing mood swings and insomnia.

13.

D I T C H THE SEDENTARY LIFESTYLE Be it at home or our workplace desk, avoid sitting for long hours, and stand or walk whenever possible. A sedentary lifestyle is closely linked to increased risks of cardiovascular diseases, as well as obesity.

14. LEARN NEW THINGS Explore those fields which are unknown to you; such as learning a new language, exploring pottery, engaging in freestyle dance, gymnastics, reading favourite authors again, time for video games, painting or sketching. Try to learn more, and grow as an individual.

15. S T O P OVERTHINKING Stress can wait! Do not spoil the present by stressing too much on the future, and take one day at a time.

16. GIVE YOURSELF TIME TO HEAL Be it a breakup or postpartum depression, or simply a bad decision, give the mind and body time to heal.

After all, Rome was not built in one day.

17. KEEP POSITIVE COMPANY The kind of company we keep matters a lot, since their thoughts and energies often reflect on how we begin to perceive things.

Hence, it is crucial that one stays away from people with negative thoughts as much as possible, and let only positivity be contagious.

18. P R A C T I S E MINDFULNESS Mindfulness is the ability to be fully present now.

Research shows it is seeing positive results in one’s daily lifestyles, like reduced stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms.

It is 2021! A new year!

However, that does not mean everything has to start on the go right now.

Every day is a new day, so don’t be too hard and push on yourself, as it’s absolutely okay to start slowly and build up the pace as the days go by. Have a wonderful 2021!!

FEATURE

17

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

W

e have arrived in the New Year.

Hopefully, many of our readers would have heeded our call to give a “forever home” to a companion animal from any of the Animal Shelters which have wonderful canines and felines up for adoption.

The last two columns dealt with animal care at Christmas and the happiness a family can experience by adding a pet to the household.

Now, in this first column for 2021, we must return to the more mundane discussions on animal ailments and their cures. Readers would have noticed that before we went into Christmas mode, we were discussing diseases for which vaccines exist.

Before we go any further with discussions on actual diseases affecting pets, it may be of greater value to spend some time dealing with vaccinations and immunity. Currently, these terms are being thrown around fast and furious - not last-

ly because of the emergence of Corona Virus, a strain of which can affect canines, and against which veterinarians (including those in Guyana) have been vaccinating dogs for many years.

GENERAL COMMENTS

Infectious/Contagious Diseases in animals (and humans) can be caused by germs (viruses, bacteria, one celled organisms called protozoa, fungi, etc.). If dogs/cats/ any pet animals remain unprotected, they could become ill and even die.

These germs can be transferred from one contaminated animal (a carrier) to a healthy animal via: ● Faeces (stool); ● Urine; ● Other germ-laden fluids (from the nostrils/ eyes/mouth, ears), droplets of which can be inhaled; ● The genital tract during mating; ● Soil; ● Germs which can enter their bodies through damaged skin.

VACCINATION AND IMMUNITY

To understand the connection between vaccination and immunity, it is necessary to possess a certain base knowledge: (i) When a germ enters the animal’s body, the animal’s defences are immediately alerted, and a reactionary process is initiated whereby several chemicals are released to respond and counter the intruder. In effect, the animal is creating specific chemical reactions, i.e., antibodies, to not only deal with the current uninvited alien interloper with bad intentions, but to also ensure future protection against reinfection. This system/process is called Active Immunity. (ii) Active Immunity can also be achieved by Vaccination. The functional efficacy, over time, decreases in potency. It is for this reason (among others) that several vaccinations are administered during the recommended “primary course” and

the annual “Booster Shots”. (iii) Antibodies are very specific in their action. They will attack and destroy only that type of germ which had originally stimulated their creation. (iv) There is also a Passive Immunity, which can be acquired by the pup/kitten from the mother dog/cat, which might have had previously acquired immunity after a germ encounter, or via vaccination. This immunity is passed on to the pup via the milk during suckling (especially during the first 2-3 days of nursing).

This type of immunity (protection) does not last a long time (not much more than 4 months). Also, it is species-bound. “Rover”, the dog, cannot catch a disease and create immunity from a horse. Of course, some dis-

eases are not species-specific, and can cause illness, even kill individuals belonging to several varying species.

Tetanus, for example, springs to mind.

In passing (and for the especially erudite), I should mention that there is another method of providing Passive Immunity (Passive Antibodies). We veterinarians can administer serum from another dog which has a high level of type-specific antibodies. But we don’t usually do this, simply because it is so simple to introduce the vaccination schedule, which we will be discussing next week. (v) It is important that I mention that : (a) A caregiver must tell the vet if the mother dog was recently mated. The manufacturers of the vaccines, as

well as veterinarians, go to great lengths to inform that a pregnant dog can lose her pups if vaccinated during pregnancy. (b) It is imperative that the puppies must not be vaccinated before they are 6 weeks of age. (vi) Having documented (i) to (v) above, it must be made clear that malnourished, infirm, ailing, anemic puppies/dogs/cats/kittens might not be capable of producing antibodies and/or building a solid immune response to invading germs.

Your vet will decide how to handle such cases. And, of course, puppies/kittens (as mentioned above) should not ever be vaccinated below 3 to 4 weeks of age.

To all pet owners and caregivers, please accept our very best wishes for 2021

18

FEATURE

The Science of COVID-19

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Acute kidney injury: causes, treatment and prevention

A

Dr. Haimchand Barran MSc Internal Medicine/ Infectious Diseases Fellowship -- Nephrology Nephrology Department – GPHC

s mentioned in last week’s article, and by way of introduction again, COVID-19 predominantly affects individuals between 30 and 79 years of age, with 81 percent of cases being classified as mild.

Some patients with COVID-19 have displayed kidney damage through acute kidney injury (AKI), mild proteinuria (protein in the urine), hematuria (blood in the urine), or slight elevation in creatinine (blood marker testing for kidney function), possibly as consequence of kidney tropism of the virus and multiorgan failure.

The impact of COVID-19

on patients with pre-existing kidney impairment - including those with chronic kidney disease (CKD), kidney transplant recipients, and individuals on hemodialysis (HD) - has not yet been clearly established.

Renal (kidney) involvement in COVID-19 (coronavirus-nephropathy) has a complex etiology (causes). AKI in COVID-19 is strongly associated with higher mortality and morbidity, and is an indicator for survival with coronavirus infection.

According to a prospective cohort study, 44 percent of COVID-19 patients had proteinuria, and 27 percent had hematuria at hospi-

tal admission, while five percent of patients experienced AKI during hospitalisation.

Patients with kidney disease had a significantly higher risk of death.

Causes Most cases of AKI are caused by reduced blood flow to the kidneys, usually in someone who's already unwell with another health condition.

This reduced blood flow could be caused by low blood volume after bleeding, excessive vomiting or diarrhoea, or severe dehydration; the heart pumping out less blood than normal as a result of heart failure, liver failure, or sepsis; problems with the blood vessels - such as inflammation and blockage in the blood vessels within the kidneys (a rare condition called vasculitis); or certain medicines that can affect the blood supply to the kidney other medicines may cause unusual reactions in the kidney itself.

AKI can also be caused by a problem with the kidney itself, such as glomerulonephritis. This may be caused by a reaction to some drugs, infections, or the liquid dye used in some types of X-rays or CT scans.

It may also be the result of a blockage affecting the drainage of the kidneys, such as an enlarged prostate; a tumour in the pelvis, such as an ovarian or bladder tumour; or kidney stones.

A doctor may suspect AKI if you're in an "at risk" group and suddenly fall ill or get symptoms of AKI, which is usually diagnosed with a blood test to measure your

level of creatinine, a chemical waste product produced by the muscles.

If there's a lot of creatinine in your blood, it means your kidneys are not working as well as they should. You may also be asked to give a urine sample, and an ultrasound scan of your kidneys may be done to look for any blockages.

Urine can be tested for protein, blood cells, sugar and waste products, which may give clues to the underlying cause. Doctors also need to know about any other symptoms, such as signs of sepsis or signs of heart failure, any other medical condition, or any medication that's been taken in the past week, as some medicines can cause AKI. An ultrasound scan should reveal if the cause is a blockage in the urinary system, such as an enlarged prostate or bladder tumour.

Treatment Treatment of AKI depends on what's causing your illness, and how severe it is.

You may need to increase your intake of water and other fluids if you're dehydrated; use antibiotics if you have an infection; stop taking certain medicines (at least until the problem is sorted), or undergo a procedure with a urinary catheter - a thin tube used to drain the bladder if there's a blockage.

Most people with AKI make a full recovery, but some people go on to develop chronic kidney disease or long-term kidney failure as a result.

In severe cases, dialysis where a machine filters the

blood to rid the body of harmful waste, extra salt and water - may be needed.

Prevention

Those at risk of AKI should be monitored, with regular blood tests if they become unwell or start new medication. It's also useful to check how much urine you're passing.

Any warning signs of AKI, such as vomiting or producing little urine, require immediate investigation for AKI and treatment.

People who are dehydrated, or at risk of dehydration, may need to be given fluids through a drip.

Any medicine that seems to be making the problem worse or directly damaging the kidneys needs to be stopped, at least temporarily.

The most serious complications of acute kidney injury are high levels of potassium in the blood - in severe cases, this can lead to muscle weakness, paralysis and heart rhythm problems; fluid in the lungs (pulmonary oedema); and acidic blood (metabolic acidosis) - which can cause nausea, vomiting, drowsiness and breathlessness.

In next week’s article, we will move on to look at two other aspects of AKI, namely, proteinuria (protein in the urine) and hematuria (blood in the urine).

Article submitted as part of the Ministry of Health’s COVID-19 public information and education programme. For questions, email ministersecretaryhealth@gmail.com.

19

RECIPES

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Pantry Pasta with Vegan Cream Sauce Ingredients • 1/2 cup plus 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin

olive oil, divided, plus more for drizzling • 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped • 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes • 5 garlic cloves, 1 whole, 4 thinly sliced • 2 sprigs rosemary

•

•

• • • •

2 15.5-oz. cans cannellini (white kidney) beans, rinsed 12 oz. paccheri, rigatoni, or other large tubular pasta Kosher salt 1 lemon 2 Tbsp. finely chopped parsley Freshly ground black pepper

Vegetarian Ramen Ingredients • 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced • 1/4 cup plus 2 Tbsp. vegetable oil • 1 Tbsp. black or white sesame seeds • 1 Tbsp. gochugaru (coarse Korean

red pepper powder) or 1½ tsp.

crushed red pepper flakes • Kosher salt • 4 scallions • 1 2” piece ginger, peeled, thinly sliced

• 2 Tbsp. tomato paste • 8 dried shiitake mushrooms • 1 4x3” piece dried kombu

(seaweed) • 3 Tbsp. unsalted butter, cut into pieces • 1 Tbsp. low-sodium soy sauce • 4 baby bok choy (about 12 oz.

total), quartered lengthwise • 4 5-oz. packages ramen noodles • Jammy eggs, toasted nori sheets,

and/or cilantro (for serving; optional)

Preparation 1. Cook garlic and ¼ cup oil in a medium pot over medium heat, stirring often, until garlic is beginning to turn golden, about 3 minutes. Stir in sesame seeds and cook, stirring occasionally, until garlic is golden brown and crisp, about 1 minute.

Transfer mixture to a small bowl and stir in gochugaru; season with salt. Set garlic oil aside. Wipe out pot and set aside.

2. Trim dark green parts from scallions and thinly slice; set aside for serving. Coarsely chop white and pale green parts. Heat remaining 2 Tbsp oil in reserved pot over medium-high. Cook chopped scallions and ginger, stirring often, until scallions are charred in spots, about 4 minutes. Add tomato paste and cook, stirring occasionally, until it begins to stick to the bottom of pot and darkens slightly, about 2 minutes. Add mushrooms and kombu, then stir in 5 cups cold water. Bring to a boil, then remove from

heat and let sit until mushrooms soften, about 10 minutes.

Remove and discard kombu.

3.

Using a slotted spoon, transfer solids to a blender. Add a ladleful or 2 of broth to blender and purée until smooth. Stir purée back into broth in pot and bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Add butter a piece at a time, whisking to combine after each addition before adding more. Stir in soy sauce; season with salt. Reduce heat to low and keep warm until ready to serve.

4. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add bok choy and cook until bright green and tender, about 2 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer bok choy to a plate. Return water to a boil and cook noodles according to package directions. Drain and divide among bowls.

5. To serve, ladle broth over noodles, then top with bok choy and reserved garlic oil. Top with eggs, nori, and cilantro if desired. (BA Magazine)

Preparation 1. Heat 1/4 cup oil in a large Dutch oven or other heavy pot over medium.

Add walnuts and red pepper flakes and cook, stirring often, until nuts are deeply golden, about 5 minutes.

Transfer to a small bowl and grate in whole garlic clove; set aside.

2. Combine 1/4 cup oil and remaining sliced garlic in pot and cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until oil around garlic is bubbling vigorously and garlic is beginning to brown, about 5 minutes. Firmly crush rosemary in your hand to bruise; add to pot along with beans and stir to coat.

Increase heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until beans are just beginning to take on color, about 3 minutes.

3. Meanwhile, cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water, stirring occasionally, until very al dente, about 2 minutes less than package directions.

4. When pasta is about 4 minutes away from being done, transfer 1 cup pas-

ta cooking liquid to pot with beans (make sure to keep heat on medium so that the liquid doesn’t evaporate too quickly). Using a wooden spoon, gently mash about three-quarters of beans into a creamy sauce.

5.

Using a spider or slotted spoon, transfer pasta to pot with beans and add 1 cup pasta cooking liquid and 2 Tbsp. oil; mix well to combine. Increase heat to medium-high, bring to a simmer, and cook, stirring gently with a heatproof rubber spatula, until sauce coats pasta, about 2 minutes. (Sauce might look soupy but will thicken as it sits so don’t worry!) Finely grate in about one-quarter of zest from lemon, then cut lemon in half. Squeeze in juice from 1 lemon half and add parsley; mix well to combine.

6. Divide pasta among bowls. Drizzle with oil, season with black pepper, and top with reserved nut mixture. Slice remaining lemon half into wedges and serve alongside for squeezing over. (BA Magazine)

20 NEWS

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Motorcyclist dragged by moving car in Turkeyen accident D

aniel Austin of D’Urban Street, Lodge, Georgetown, is now hospitalised after he rode into a concrete median on Friday last, and was later dragged by a moving car some 50 feet away on the Turkeyen Railway Embankment, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

Police said the accident occurred on New Year’s Day at about 03:30h on the Turkeyen Railway Embankment Road, in the vicinity of the Caricom Secretariat.

Reports are the motor car was driven by a 31-yearold male of Better Hope North Squatting Area, ECD. According to Police, the motorcyclist was riding in the rain, west along the south-

cyclist ended up under the car and was dragged some 50 feet away from the scene, and received further injuries about his body.

He was picked up in a semi-conscious state by public-spirited citizen and

ern side of the Turkeyen Railway Embankment, and while in the vicinity of the Caricom Secretariat, he rode into the concrete median on the southern side of the road.

As a result, he fell onto the southern lane of the road and according to eye-

witnesses, after laying on the roadway for some time, he was struck by the passing motor car driven by the 31-year-old.

Police said at the time the motor car was also proceeding west along the southern lane of the said road. As a result, the motor-

taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where he was admitted as a critical patient.

He reportedly suffered a fractured right wrist, multiple lacerations to the face and right-side body, and

trauma to the head.

Meanwhile, a breathalyser test was conducted on the driver of the motor car, but no trace of alcohol was found. He is in custody assisting with the investigation.

Special Constable injured in ECD accident A

44-year-old Special Constable is nursing injuries about her body and is currently hospitalised at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), after the motorcycle she was riding collided

with a car.

Police reported that Aquaba Assanah of Haslington, East Coast Demerara, was proceeding east along the northern side of the Cove and John Public Road on motorcycle CK 5568, when the driver of

motor car PRR 4561, driven

by Bryon Mahendra, a fisherman of Hope, Lowland Section, ECD, stopped to allow a vehicle proceeding in the opposite direction to turn south into the access road.

In the process of doing so, motorcycle CK 5568, which was proceeding from east to west, overtook several vehicles along the left side of the said road and collided with the front left side of the said motor car.

This occurred sometime around 12:20h.

As a result of the collision, Assanah fell onto the roadway where she received injuries about her body. She was picked up by public-spirited citizens and taken to the GPHC, where she was seen and examined by a doctor on duty and admitted a patient.

Investigations are ongoing.

NEWS

21

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Dorm students to be tested for schools’ reopening – Health Minister

W

ith the reopening of school set for January 4, the Health Ministry is taking all precautionary measures against COVID-19, by ensuring that testing is available for students staying at the dormitories.

During the latest update, Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony shared that there is some level of transmissions in some communities and as such, persons returning to the dormitories will be retested.

During the reopening of

schools in November, a similar system was in place to test dorm students and several tested positive for the novel coronavirus at President’s College. They were later isolated from the general population until recovery.

“Since the closure of school from the 18th December, many of the students who were once in dorms would have gone back home and we know that in some communities, there are transmissions of COVID-19. So, upon them returning on the 4th

January 2021, we would want to ensure that we test them to make sure that they don’t have any signs of COVID. Once they’re negative, they will be placed in the general dormitories,” the Health Minister indicated.

Dr Anthony highlighted that there has been close collaboration with the Education Ministry to facilitate a smooth reopening for the new term. Along with contingency plans, they have also distributed adequate test kits to the regions.

Education Ministry extends date to cash in school uniform vouchers

A

decision has been taken by the Education Ministry to extend the expiry date for the school uniform and supplies vouchers, providing an extra window of time for parents to benefit if they have not done so.

This was announced by Education Minister, Priya Manickchand during a video message. She noted that many parents would not have had the chance to use the vouchers – which are part of Government’s efforts to increase the disposable income in households.

“We have become aware at the Ministry of Education that some parents, for various reasons, didn’t get a chance to cash their uniform voucher within the time that we gave. We know how much this means to parents so we would like very much for parents to have the benefit that the Government intended,” Manickchand posited.

Now, parents have until January 9 to use their vouchers. Store owners have until January 15 to redeem vouchers that have been used at

their establishment and this can be done at the Ministry’s Brickdam, Georgetown office.

“We’ve decided as a Government to extend the period that parents would have to shop and store owners would have to redeem their vouchers. Parents now have until the 9th of January to go to stores and shop with those vouchers…We’re very happy to be able to extend this time.”

After assuming office in August, the new PPP/C Administration doubled the allowance for school uniform vouchers. President Ali had promised that a slew of measures would be implemented following the presentation and passage of the emergency budget for the remainder of the 2020 fiscal year.

At the launch, it was noted that more than 160,000 school children across the country will receive a $4000 uniform and school supplies voucher to assist with the purchasing of school supplies and uniforms.

The PPP/C Government increased the voucher from $2000 to $4000, representing a 100 per cent increase.

The vouchers can be redeemed at stores across the country. They cannot be redeemed for cash but must purchase what they are intended for. Vouchers are usually uplifted at schools on dates and times provided.

In 2014, Minister Manickchand had launched the “Because We Care” project which issued vouchers to parents for each child in the public school system. It was implemented with the aim of providing support to parents with school-age children and increasing their disposable income, with a view to raising enrolment and attendance rates.

The $15,000 per child school voucher will be given to parents of public school children this year. After reintroducing the grant, it was raised from $10,000 to $15,000.

In 2015 when the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government took office, they scrapped the project and displaced thousands of students and parents.

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony “We have had a very detailed meeting with the Ministry of Education. Each Regional Health Officer and the Regional Education Officer have met and they have come up with their plans for the regions. On our side

from the health perspective, we have sent out enough test kits. This include both antigen and PCR kits to the regions so that all students that are coming into the dorms, that we’ll be able to test them.”

Meanwhile, for the PCR tests, mechanisms have been implemented for a timely return of the results. Over the weekend as students trickle in, they will be tested.

“I think the plans are well in advanced and some of the students, we understand, would start coming in from Saturday. As they come into the different dorms, we have mechanisms in place to start doing the testing,” he shared.

Eight students, who were being housed at the President’s College dorm, had tested positive in November.

That was out of a total of 139 students housed at the educational facility. All eight of them were from Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni).

After

that, five teachers, six students and two ancillary staffers in Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) also tested positive.

Meanwhile, all swabs for COVID-19 from Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) students had returned negative.

The reopening of schools for Grades 10, 11 and 12 and those attending practical, technical and vocational institutes last year would have seen a high turnout of teachers and students. Schools across the country were closed on March 16, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Education Ministry gave parents the option of keeping their children home if they were uncomfortable sending them back to school in the COVID-19 situation. Parents can also opt to have their children transferred to the nearest secondary school – a process that can be completed in less than 24 hours.

22

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

23

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Hundreds of birds are found dead on Rome streets after New Year fireworks The analysis of Tom Sanzillo, Director of Financial Analysis at IEEFA, is fundamentally flawed, ill-informed, and contextually misleading (Part 1)

T

oday’s article is a direct response to Tom Sanzillo, a so-called financial expert, with the title “Director of Financial Analysis at the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis”, a seemingly globally unpopular institute. The institute appears to lack any credible, globally-respected reputational ranking with respect to the work it produces – hence the characterisation of it as a globally weak and unpopular institute. With this in mind, today’s piece is extremely necessary in the interest of public debate, since Tom Sanzillo, it would appear, is being utilised for whatever professional reputation he holds to lend credibility to a position of a certain section of society, which is given growing media coverage by a certain section of the media as well. To this end, there is a daily narrative – perhaps with good intent, but ignores many other crucial elements of the subject matter it seeks to champion, inter alia, Guyana’s oil deal.

Firstly, this author acknowledges that indeed the current Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) with Exxon is inherently weak in many areas, and could have been better. This author would have also, over the last three years since the PSA was released to the public, authored many pieces pointing out the weakness of the PSA. One must also acknowledge that the Government of the day has acknowledged this fact, and when it was in Opposition, did highlight many loopholes that could be corrected going forward with future contracts. However, it is not an entirely bad deal, where Guyana earns absolutely nothing, as it is being made to seem. Guyana’s net take from the current PSA is 14.5% which includes 2% royalty and 50% from profit oil.

More so, one must also acknowledge that the Government of the day is showing positive indications and actions to honour its commitment to the people of Guyana in that regard. In fact, the Vice President recently availed himself on a radio segment with the publisher of Kaieteur Radio to address those concerns and outline the Administration’s plans to deal with those matters going forward – in terms of securing a better deal for Guyanese, and not only from the perspective of the oil deal itself, but to benefit from the petroleum sector as a whole. The Vice President addressed these issues rather comprehensively, and therefore, it is not necessary to rehash the contents of that discussion here.

Now, let’s turn to the so-called US financial expert Tom Sanzillo, who has taken some bold positions on some issues that are fundamentally misinformed, and where he appears to be absolutely clueless about what he is veering into.

The first issue has to do with his position on the Guyana Gas-toshore project, where he asserts that it is a recipe for bankruptcy. Based on his argument, he is comparing this on the basis of the technical competence of the Government to negotiate complex deals – using the badly negotiated PSA under the previous regime as the pillar of his argument.

Someone of his stature should know, though, that you cannot compare apples with oranges. It is evident that the previous regime, and more particularly the negotiating team for the PSA, was a world class incompetent and weak group of negotiators.

The current regime, on the other hand, has a demonstrable track record of the highest intellectual competence and some of the best financial experts of international quality dominating almost all quarters of the Government apparatus. There is no shortage of financial and economic expertise in Guyana – both within the Government and in the Private Sector.

The second atrocity of Tom’s position is that it is intellectually and academically imprudent of Tom Sanzillo to make such assertions on the gas-to-shore project without even having critical information before him to inform his analysis. For example, information regarding the investment cost, cost structure, revenue streams/structure, value added products, and the overall economic benefits to the economy are currently being worked out.

In the absence of such crucial information, such a project would not be a recipe for bankruptcy – hypothetically speaking. In a subsequent article, this author will present some analysis, inter alia, scenario analysis with its underlying assumptions and extrapolatory techniques. This is the kind of techniques analysts and academics utilise when there is limited information for such analytical work. Amusingly, Tom Sanzillo did not even attempt to use any such techniques whatsoever – which is quite an unfortunate embarrassment to his professional integrity, if indeed he is the expert he claims to be.

Another issue this column wishes to address is contained in an article in which he asserted that the Guyana Government will owe Exxon some $20 billion by 2025, suggesting that the Government will have to borrow money to repay this debt. This view, however, is contextually incorrect.

It is not a case where the Government somehow have to find US$20B by 2025 to pay Exxon. The investment itself will repay the investors their capital investment and will yield a profit which will be shared between the Government and the oil company. The PSA has a 75% cost recovery threshold from which the contractor will recover its investment cost. The projected capital investment for both Liza Phase 1 and Liza Phase 2 over the life of the project is US$60B, and the life of the project is 30 years.

So, if we divide US$60B by 30 years, that’s $2B per year X five years = $10B; plus, pre-discovery cost and investment to date is about $10B by now, that’s how Tom arrived at US$20B figure by 2025 – which is based on Exxon’s projected investment.

In other words, what Tom is saying is Exxon's projected investment by 2025 would be US$20B, but what he did not say is that Exxon will recover that investment from production and the revenue generated therein - of which there is a 75% cap.

Further, it is Exxon shareholders’ funds being invested ($20B), which will be recovered from the investment itself - not the Government of Guyana’s funds or those of the people of Guyana.

The Government gets a profit share which works out to 12.5% + 2% royalty = 14.5%, and this is a guaranteed 14.5% until the end of cost recovery period. To be continued….

About the Author: JC. Bhagwandin is an economic and financial analyst, lecturer and business & financial consultant. The views expressed are exclusively his own and do not necessarily represent those of this newspaper and the institutions he represents. For comments, send to jbbankingadvice@gmail.com.

S

cores of dead birds found dead in Italy are said to have suffered heart attacks because of fireworks set off in the city centre.

Hundreds of the little feathered creatures' bodies were recorded in several locations around Rome, including its Roma Termini train station, by shocked passers-by.

Animal rights groups say the tragedy was caused by fireworks set off on New Year's Eve which scared them to death.

A city-wide ban on displays by officials on December 31 to protect animals, people and property went largely ignored by Italians celebrating the end of 2020. In one video shot by a shocked witness, the person filming is heard saying: 'This is the disgusting side of human nature.

'The fireworks.

Hundreds of dead birds.

Unbelievable. Look how many there are.'

Witness Diego, who was working as a taxi driver on New Year's Eve, told The Mail Online: 'I was on duty during the hours of my work when I was passing through via Cavour, a street near the central train station.

'I did not understand at first what was on the ground, later I realized that they were dead birds, and there were hundreds of them. A really bad scene.

It was about 00.40 and the causes could be due to the fireworks, at least that's the first thing I thought.

'I'm not a scientist or a veterinarian, so I can't take responsibility for saying with certainty that that was the reason.'

The International Organisation for the Protection of Animals say the fireworks had been let off in a leafy neighbourhood used nearby by birds to roost.

Spokesman Loredana Diglio said: 'It can be that they died from fear.

'They can fly up together and knock against each other, or hit windows or electric power lines. Let's not forget they can also die of heart attacks.

She added each year fireworks displays cause

Some of the dead birds on the streets of Rome

distress and injury to both wild and domestic animals.

Several people online

suggested the grim deaths were an omen for 2021.

Others blamed the city

for not banning the fireworks years ago. (Daily Mail)

24 YEAR IN REVIEW SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

(CONTINUED FROM JANUARY 1ST, EDITION)

2020: Year of danger and then hope US Govt ready to work with Guyana – Mike Pompeo tells President Ali TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2020

Manzoor Nadir elected Speaker of National Assembly WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2020

APNU/AFC election petition will expose its own attempts to rig elections – Nandlall

Persons caught spewing race hate, hostility on social media to face full brunt of law – President Ali SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2020

WCB murders, aftermath

RSS team to be dispatched to Guyana shortly to assist with probe – VP Jagdeo SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2020

Conditional survey to determine phased reopening of sugar estates – Agriculture Minister

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2020 MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2020

Incompetence, nepotism under APNU/AFC rule ruined governmental infrastructure – Nandlall FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2020

Sugar industry will be rebuilt, strengthened, reorganised in comprehensive way – President Ali …as NICIL team visits estates Chris Jones made false SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2020

APNU/AFC failed to secure any major Anti-Money Laundering conviction – AG …in dismal 5-year track record…as new Govt prepares to table FIU Report SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2020

PPP/C will be an inclusive Govt for all – Teixeira

– says coalition will not be left out of political, economic progress MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2020

Govt announces massive tax relief measures …emergency budget addresses cost of living, to stimulate economic growth TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2020

$330B Budget to be presented today WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2020

Deadly Berbice unrest

Govt seeks investigative help from British Regional Security System for GPF Govt,

…exploring International Commission of Inquiry …looking at UN system to hold those accountable for spreading race hate, instigating racial strife THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2020

WCB unrest

Security increased in Region 5

Police confirm Henry teens were not killed in coconut field where bodies were found …all suspects released, Police pursuing 2 additional persons...Guyana to get support from British Govt, RSS to solve teens’ murders TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2020

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020

APNU MPs vote against monies for developing indigenous communities …“it’s a travesty ” – Sukhai

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2020

COVID-19 reversing gains on health, poverty and education – Ali tells UN Assembly

…says multilateral approach needed to stem pandemic WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2020

Over 400 sugar workers to be rehired by year-end – GuySuCo CEO …closed estates expected to be fully functional by 2023/24 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020

$330B Budget 2020 passed

Strengthening democracy, security against regional threats high on agenda ...as Pompeo prepares to make historic visit to Guyana, other countries WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

Guyana, US to ink maritime patrol pact – State Dept official …during Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's historic visit today …Guyana’s interest to be represented – Vice President THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2020

President Ali, US Secretary of State discuss governance, security, natural resources FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2020

Guyana open to investments – President Ali …agreement signed to pave way for US investors in energy, infrastructure

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2020

Ogle bypass road contract likely to be awarded by year end …new Govt reduces APNU/AFC’s US$208M inflated cost to $50M SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2020

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2020

Expressions of Interest for new Demerara River bridge begins by next – President Ali SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2020

Reopening sugar estates to reverse APNU/ AFC devastation of sugar communities – President Ali ... says no need for divisive comparisons MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2020

WCB murders

RSS team arrives in Guyana to assist with investigations

– given scope to review, explore all avenues necessary to find answers

Local content is not just about oil and gas – President Ali Another company returns land given ...says Guyanese businesses must benefit from transformational projects MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2020

President Ali urges UN to mobilise resources to alleviate poverty — roads cleared for vehicular traffic — 4 released on bail as probe into teen's murders intensifies

As Guyana celebrates Amerindian Heritage Month

– lauds UN as “distinctive and unrivalled force for good” TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2020

out under former APNU/ AFC Govt – Corum Group says it will work with TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2020

APNU/AFC boycotts debate on reversal of its draconian taxes on ordinary citizens WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2020

25

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

2020: Year of danger and then hope GECOM, APNU/AFC destruction of democracy: Day 30 Govt grants approval for Payara, licence includes supply of gas for power generation …ExxonMobil to start production in 2024

Thursday, October 1, 2020

Squatters destroy 17,000 varieties of GUYSuCo’s sugar cane worth $2B …dubbed a massive "future financial" loss WCB murders Friday, October 2, 2020

Guyana to start negotiation on gas-to-energy project …country to be paid by ExxonMobil for gas wastage Saturday, October 3, 2020

Public officials will be It is the responsibility of leaders to held accountable for unify Guyana – President Ali actions – President Ali Wednesday, October 21, 2020

...urges Ministers, MPs to act in a fair, transparent manner Sunday, October 11, 2020

Guyana, Suriname mark site for Corentyne River Bridge Sunday, October 11, 2020

PPP/C Govt telecoms liberalization

Investors' interest growing after liberalisation of telecoms sector — VP Jagdeo ...as new applications received, more expected to pour in Monday, October 12, 2020

Payara production licence US development bank CEO to lead superior to investors' mission to Guyana today APNU/AFC-approved Liza 1, 2 – Jagdeo Tuesday, October 13, 2020 …as PPP secures vastly improved terms Sunday, October 4, 2020

Local content

Govt to reclaim benefits lost from deficient agreements – to establish robust local content framework – VP Jagdeo Monday, October 5, 2020

Surinamese President says Corentyne River bridge will be built within 5 years

financiers available to back bridge in Public-Private Partnership Monday, October 5, 2020

28th anniversary of return of democracy to Guyana

“We will deliver inclusionary governance, constitutional reform” – President Ali

Tuesday, October 6, 2020

PPP/C Govt telecoms liberalization

Telecommunications sector open for investment – PM Phillips

...issues licences to GTT, Digicel and E-Networks Digicel hails emergence of new era Wednesday, October 7, 2020

Govt engaging high-level investors on major transformative projects – President Ali ...deepwater harbour, Brazil road link on agenda Thursday, October 8, 2020

Harmon must apologise to Guyana over attempts to derail democracy – President Ali Friday, October 9, 2020

Attempts to rig elections

CoI to start soon – President Ali

...says Govt in talks with int’l community …Roxanne Myers on $300,000 bail for misconduct charges …Lowenfield’s fraud, misconduct trial to begin in November Saturday, October 10, 2020

Continued lockdown of Guyana would have been counterproductive – President Ali

...says balance must be struck between fighting COVID-19 and economy Wednesday, October 14, 2020

International assistance offered to Guyana for electoral reform Thursday, October 15, 2020

Attempts to rig elections

PNC Chair charged for conspiring to declare fraudulent results Thursday, October 15, 2020

Guyana poised to become investment capital of Region – President tells int’l Private Sector Friday, October 16, 2020

1 day before hearing of election petitions

Intruder turns up with toy gun at CJ Roxane George’s home

…such actions can only emanate from those fearful of sound rulings of Judiciary – Govt Thursday, October 22, 2020

Parties can request elections documents during petition hearing – acting CJ

...flags issues in APNU/AFC petitions ...APNU/AFC will be required to produce SoPs upon request Friday, October 23, 2020

Telecoms sector liberalization

50 companies already eager to invest – PM

…US$44M GTT tax debt still unsettled Saturday, October 24, 2020

Govt probing massive land conspiracy connected to Ogle/Diamond bypass land leased to shell companies project …prime under APNU/AFC flipped for profit Sunday, October 25, 2020

Some 40 int’l companies submitted EoIs for new DHB

— Minister Edghill says Govt looking to deliver by 2024 Monday, October 26, 2020

Massive land scandal

PNCR Executive collects US$1M for flipped lands at Peters Hall …Chinese national subleased 30 acres for $100GYD Tuesday, October 27, 2020

After years of delay

Guyanese hail Govt's $227M Mabaruma solar swift land title distribution farm finally operational

…Govt to examine a Diaspora Fund to finance local housing development Saturday, October 17, 2020

‘Dream Realised’ housing initiative

Over 2500 persons access services

…600 new applications received …financial institutions, citizens welcome initiative Sunday, October 18, 2020

…RDC aiming for 24-hr electricity by December Wednesday, October 28, 2020

City Hall appeals to Govt for funds to offset over $500M debt …owes $100M to garbage contractors, $400M to NIS, $20M in retroactive salaries Thursday, October 29, 2020

G-77+China Summit

CDC conducting needs assessment of President Ali says developing countries Success squatters — PM Mark Phillips need greater access to climate …Graham’s Hall school being prepped as shelter recommits to climate agenda even as squatters refuse to relocate financing …asGuyana oil-producing nation – VP Jagdeo Monday, October 19, 2020

APNU/AFC will not dictate the pace of Guyana’s development – Minister Edghill …as Harmon, Jordan criticise US's IDFC investment terms Saturday, October 20, 2020

Friday, October 30, 2020

Guyana to use new resources to foster local innovation, research – President Ali Saturday, October 31, 2020

26

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

2020: Year of danger and then hope Govt terminates multi- million $$ contract for Health Ministry HQ …contractor demanded additional $513.3 M 1 day after new Govt took office …project delays continue despite 317 days' extension SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2020

Giveaway of State land

Govt to bring legal action against former Finance Minister, others

...NICIL transferred land valued at $150M to company for $2.4M in June 2020 — purchaser failed to make even minimum down payment MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2020

SOCU, CID called in to investigate Ogle land deals TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2020

Govt awards 100 contracts to small, new contractors

…big firms must not crowd out small contractors – Edghill WEDNEDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2020

Guyana receives 3rd oil royalty payment …US$4.3M deposited into NRF

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2020

Dr Ashni Singh returns as Minister of Finance

— says “eagerly looking forward” to serving Guyana again FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2020

PPP/C wants LGE next year, pledges resources for preparation – VP …says “criminal types” must be removed from GECOM

President Ali commits to improving efficiency, reliability in Public Service …new Public Service Appellate Tribunal sworn in THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2020

Elections 2020 probe vital in advancing transparency, good governance – Washington think tank SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2020

Diwali in Guyana

Guyana a shining example of religious tolerance — Indian High Commissioner Reopening of sugar estates

3 Indian companies submit EOIs for joint ventures SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2020

Guyana Police Force launches Christmas Policing Plan MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2020

Still no “honest interlocutor” VP Jagdeo on talks with Opposition TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2020

First 4.7 mile-deep Kaieteur Block oil well not profitable

…but exploration continues – ExxonMobil

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2020

President Ali initiates talks President Ali introduces measures with UWI to train 20,000 to boost construction sector Guyanese in 5 years SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2020

President Ali congratulates US President- elect Joe Biden

...for Guyana’s economic, social, cultural development THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2020

Oil & gas sector tops agenda as high-level Royal UAE investment group arrives in Guyana

— First Lady says Vice President-elect Kamala Harris breaking barriers

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2020 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2020

…virtual meeting held with Public Works Minister MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2020

Reopening of sugar estates…

GuySuCo rehires almost 700 sugar workers

…spends $126M in preparation for reopening of sugar estates TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2020

Bridging of Corentyne River symbolizes transition to new era – Surinamese, Guyanese Presidents …Guyana, Suriname sign MoU formalising project …Strategic Dialogue and Cooperation Platform agreement also inked WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2020

Guyana, Suriname to benefit from accelerated growth & development – President Ali

— touts opportunity for more trade, partnerships during extraordinary address to Suriname's National Assembly THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2020

Agreements in security, agriculture sectors inked with Brazil ...Guyana-Brazil road link back on agenda — Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro to visit Guyana, next year FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2020

President Ali announces upgrades for health-care system …upgrades for West Dem, Mabaruma & Lethem hospitals; allowances & scholarships for health-care workers

Govt to spend $250M in road works at Tuschen, Zeelugt

Significant turnout as schools reopen

...says groundwork laid for unprecedented development

World-class bridge construction companies submit EOIs for new DHB

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2020

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2020

Wave of development in 1st 100 days is only the beginning – President Ali

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2020

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2020

…removes VAT on stones with immediate effect

Lands and Surveys under probe for 100s of acres of land sold below market value, no public tender

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2020

Education remains key element EPA gives Exxon permission for private fibre-optic of developmental plan for cable from Liza 1 children’s future – President Ali ...invites comments from public SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2020

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2020

27

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

2020: Year of danger and then hope Guyana’s legal, statutory framework protecting investors’ confidence most robust in Caribbean – Devindra Kissoon

…AG's Chambers modernising arbitration system TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2020

Local businesses will see greater involvement in oil & gas sector – Ali

…but must embrace new ways of doing business WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2020

GMSA honours ABCE diplomats for preservation of Guyana’s democracy THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2020

Ali urges UN to pilot int’l rollout of COVID-19 vaccines for developing countries FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2020

President Ali invites former Presidents for Dec 15 meeting ...to create framework for development proposal SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020

Canada interested in building Corentyne bridge …State’s commercial arm, large Canadian firm to collaborate for bid SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2020

Guyana’s int’l image has rebounded – Canadian envoy

...after APNU/AFC held country hostage for 5 months

MONDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2020

Guyana, Suriname sign historic open-air agreement – as Govt aims to make Guyana a hub for regional travel TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2020

7th Caricom-Cuba Heads of State Summit

President Ali urges review of regional food security strategy …pledges increased collaboration to combat COVID-19 risk

CJIA to get US$20M Marriott Courtyard hotel by 2023 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2020

Delayed CJIA expansion

Govt rejects contractor’s demands for more money

…threatens legal action against Chinese company SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2020

Govt launches childcare subsidy for essential workers …as part of comprehensive COVID-19 relief measures MONDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2020

2 years after APNU/AFC witch-hunting

SOCU withdraws politicallymotivated charges against Ashni Singh, Winston Brassington TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2020

Oil & gas, national issues discussed with former Presidents – Ali …open invitation extended to Granger …meetings to be held every 3 months

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2020

President Ali announces 2 weeks' taxfree bonus, special housing for Police …tells senior cops to find ways to win public trust

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2020

President Ali confers AG, Timothy Jonas, Jamela Ali with silk

…Head of State has power to appoint Senior Counsel – High Court rules …calls for increased transparency in appointment process FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020

ICJ has jurisdiction to hear Guyana- Venezuela border Venezuela border

...removal of Venezuelan threat finally in sight SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2020

International, local interest skyrocket to finance Govt's housing drive

Guyana’s oil reserves equivalent to 10,000 barrels per person – IDB ...expresses worry about overall non-oil economy TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2020

"Dream Realised" initiative

Over 1500 house lots to be allocated in Region 3 over 2-day event

…PM says Govt committed to “affordable” homeownership WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020

611 cheques worth over $2B kept

by David Patterson's Ministry …money should have been refunded to Consolidated Fund – AG THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

Christmas echoes a message of hope, offers relief from despair – President …as Opposition urges safety during festivities FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2020

NIS must improve delivery of services to contributors – Finance Minister

…says financial deficit must also be addressed SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2020

Mother, 11-year -old daughter found murdered in home — alleged killer on the run

MONDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2020

“Guyana needs all hands on deck” – President

…urges Diaspora in Canada to return home and invest TUESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2020

"Dream Realised" initiative

300 more house lots distributed in Region 6

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2020

Region 2 to get over $5B in investments in coming weeks – President Ali

…600 house lots to be developed, distributed on Essequibo Coast ...as Police called in to probe false receipts for sale of Govt lands THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020

Guyana gets $19.8B in budget support from EU FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020

…as Govt surpasses 2020 target SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2020

…evaluation report completed for bids received – Minister SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2020

Licence granted for Caribbean’s largest quarry operation in Region 7 MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020

Uninterrupted market access for Guyana as UK exits EU today …Finance Minister signs new CARIFORUM-UK EPA THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020

28 FEATURE

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

The history of a first-generation indentured couple …laying the foundation for success of Muneshwer

By Dr Vishnu Bisram

M

y indentured ancestors, the girmityas, like others that came from India (1838 to 1917) laid the groundwork and economic foundation for the achievements of myself (in education at least) and others like Muneshwer in business (Water Street original proprietor who passed away around 1981; Muneshwer was born in 1910).

My paternal great grandfather (par aja) and great grandmother (par aji) left behind a large clan (grandchildren, great grand and later generations) in Guyana that is spread out in North America, UK, and Jamaica.

My interest in ancestry led to my inquiring about them. They were an accomplished couple, a rare example of success among indentureds.

My par aja was Ghurbatore (one name as was normal for many Indians) and par aji was Amru Rai. They were from different villages of about 150 KM apart. He was from Kusmi Village of sub-district Nundgunj of district Ghazipur in the state of Uttar Pradesh (UP).

And she was from Siarha Village in Raunapur in district Azamgarh of UP. They must have met at Port Kolkata where they were housed in a holding station for some three weeks after they were recruited (kidnapped or deceived into making the journey for quick riches of gold).

They departed in August 1891, arriving three months later; the couple was bounded to Plantation Port Mourant, the largest sugar estate in Guiana.

The Emigration or ship Pass Ghurbatore says his father Abilakh and he also had a sister Atwaria in India. Amru left her father Dukhi behind. There is no record of other family members left behind other than what was told orally to their children born in Guiana and then handed down to grandchildren and other generations. I tried to learn about other siblings from tracing

Bharka Bhai Mahadeo, indentured labourer

their roots in their respective villages in UP. I visited the villages several times and interacted with dwellers including some thought to be ancestral relatives.

In Port Mourant, Amru and Ghurbatore were housed in a small cottage at Boundyard, so named because that is where the indentured laborers were kept to carry out bounded slave-like labour. (Each ethnic group lived in a separate community to prevent ethnic solidarity.

Port Mourant also had a Portuguese Quarter and a “N Yard”, pejoratively labelled by the colonial plantation owners. There was also a “Coolie Yard”. Notice that the Portuguese indentured area was not referred to as a yard whereas “coolie” and “negro” had a yard appendage). Ghurbatore and Amru lived in a lojie or “kutiya” or “kutilla”, just a few minutes’ walk from where my mother’s (Gladys) maternal grandparents (Amar Singh and Bhuri Singh of Rajput stock from Bharatpur, Rajasthan) were bounded in 1903; Bhuri was elegant, tall, and very fair looking. The indentured were given a few cents for their daily task, almost twelve hours a day and six days a week. Their children were also required to work

in the estates for two cents a day.

The family saved their measly earnings while using some to upgrade their dilapidated lojie that once housed slaves. After they completed their indenture, they were forced out of the lojie. My great grandparents settled down rather than returning to India. A return trip was stated in the contract. It is not known whether they remained voluntarily or if they were refused the return trip to India. The plantation owners wanted the indentured slaves to stay on to continue their almost free labour on the estates. Thus, a variety of measures were undertaken to coerce them to stay. They were supposed to be given the return passage of $50 as an incentive to remain on the estate. But there is no record if they were given the money. Clauses in the contract were not always enforced by the colonial authority, and the labourers were routinely cheated of their paltry earnings. The indentured were badly ill-treated and exploited. Some of them were promised a small plot of land in exchange for the return passage. Not all of them received land. At any rate, they received useless marsh or forested land; some also bought forested and marsh land. They cleared the land to make it cultivable. Immigrants built a kutiya or a small house on the land grant or purchased land after clearing and draining it. The former slaves had moved on to an urban plot or cleared estates they bought.

The kutiya of the indentured may be a far distance from the farm land as was the case of my ancestors in Ankerville. The farmland and the cattle grazing savannah that my aja and her sons established were about fifteen miles in the backdam away from home.

After completing their indenture (not sure for five or ten years), Ghurbatore and Amru built a kutilla (one bedroom with a living room connected to the kitchen for their family just across the Sideline from where

CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)

INFORMATION AND GUIDELINES

Ramjee Babu, indentured labourer

they were bounded in Boundyard.

The kutiya was just a few minutes’ walk from the Jagans (who came from Uttar Pradesh, India). After they finished their indenture (5 or 10 years), the labourers were settled in Free Yard, so named because they satisfactorily completed the servitude contract after which they were given a certificate of completion. Free Yard was cleared of forests in the late 1800s and labourers were assigned plots there. When it was filled, Ankerville was cleared of the forests in the early 1900s and lots were parcelled to the indentured. (Later, Haswell, Babu Jahan, Trainline, Miss Phoebe, Tain, Clifton, Jones, Portuguese Quarter, and other sub sections of Port Mourant were cleared of bush and marsh and drained. Plots were assigned to those who completed their contract or later employed at the estate after the termination of indentureship in 1920. Portuguese Quarter, established for freed indentured Portuguese, was also extended for settlement of indentured Indians who had completed their bonded labour).

Par aja and par aji had five children – (teen) or three betas or sons

and two (or do) betis or daughters.

Naurangya (mother of the wellknown Muneshwer, Georgetown businessman) was the older beti (daughter) followed by Sancharee (mother of well-known business folks Lilmatee Hilton of Rose Hall and Hindu Ramjee of Tain, among others). The betas were Mahadeo, my aja or paternal grandfather, followed by Rajaram and Mahase.

Mahadeo was well known as Barkha Bhai (eldest brother) among the siblings and was so respectably referred to by family and neighbours. He was also called “Scorpion” or “Scapion” because he was tough combating and dangerous animals. Muneshwer was the oldest grandchild of Ghurbatore and Amru, bringing much joy to the family and as such was showered with lots of gifts including cash to establish a business. Muneshwer was fondly called Bhaiya by cousins and neighbours. Sancharee died in 1946 from surgery for appendicitis.

Naurangya had a natural death in 1961 and was buried in Georgetown.

Ghurbatore and Amru laboured very hard on the estate and used their savings to acquire a lot of land and cattle. (As my aja related, his parents “tied their belly to save for their children and grandchildren”).

Typical indentureds, they didn’t “bilaway their earnings”.

The land they purchased or leased from the crown was thickly forested. The state was glad to lease it because free Indian labour would make it cultivable. Ghurbatore and Amru, like other indentured labourers from India, had to clear the land of the jungle to make it cultivable for rice and kitchen crops. They also had to clear the land where they had built their kutilla. Up to the 1970s, the area around the kutilla of Ghurbatore and Amru had large towering tamarind trees and thick bushes with needles (plimpas).

To Be Continued in Monday, January 4, 2021 edition

SYMPTOMS

People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness.

Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms or combinations of symptoms may have COVID-19:

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF? Cough

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Or at least two of these symptoms:

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

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

(Adapted from BBC News)

Headache

Chills

Sore throat

Repeated shaking with chills

New loss of taste or smell

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

AROUND THE WORLD

29

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Trump may launch “reckless” India's drugs experts approve AstraZeneca, local COVID vaccines attack on Iran, experts fear

U

E

xperts at India’s drugs regulator have recommended for emergency use two coronavirus vaccines, one developed

by AstraZeneca and Oxford University and the other backed by a state-run institute, the Government said on Saturday.

A Government Minister said earlier the AstraZeneca/ Oxford vaccine had been given the green light on Friday, paving the way for a huge immunisation campaign in the world’s second-most populous country.

The Government said the final decision on the two vaccines would be made by the Central Drugs Standards Control Organisation’s (CDSCO) chief, who has called a news conference on Sunday. The process for the final approval is expected to be a formality given the urgency for a vaccine in the country with the highest number of COVID-19 infections in the world after the United States.

A man applies finishing touches to graffiti representing a vaccine, amidst the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Kolkata, India, January 2, 2021

The other vaccine, known as COVAXIN, has been developed locally by Bharat Biotech and the Governmentrun Indian Council of Medical Research. Citing sources, Reuters reported on Friday that the shot could be approved, though little is known about the results of its clinical trials.

For the AstraZeneca/ Oxford vaccine, the approval was “subject to multiple regulatory conditionalities”, it said, without giving details.

The regulator is likely to approve administering two doses for both vaccines, each four weeks apart, two sources with knowledge of the matter told Reuters on Saturday.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar told reporters earlier that two other vaccines were waiting to be approved - Zydus Cadila’s ZyCoV-D and Russia’s Sputnik V that are both on trial in India. (Excerpt from Reuters)

France: More than 2500 break virus restrictions at illegal rave

A

n illegal warehouse rave that began on New Year's Eve in France in defiance of coronavirus precautions has been shut down by Police after arrests and clashes.

Some of the 2500 ravers in Lieuron near Rennes in Brittany had planned to party until Tuesday.

Police issued fines to revellers found leaving and the organisers were being identified as the party ended.

A number of party-goers were from the UK and Spain, Police said.

Attendees clashed with POLICE, setting fire to a car and throwing objects at offi-

cers attempting to shut the event down. At least three officers were injured.

Police trying to stop the event faced "fierce hostility from many partygoers", a statement from local authorities said.

But at 05:30 local time on Saturday the ravers began to accept the party was over and started to leave the two disused warehouse hangars, the local prefecture said.

Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin said on Twitter that trucks, sound equipment and generators were seized at the scene and an investigation has been opened.

More than 1200 fines were

issued for non-compliance with the curfew, not wearing a mask and attending an illegal gathering, Darmanin said.

On Friday authorities said they had opened a sanitary cordon around the party and anyone leaving the event was urged to self-isolate for seven days.

France introduced strict rules ahead of the New Year including a curfew from 20:00 until 06:00.

More than 100,000 police officers were deployed across the country to break up parties and enforce the curfew.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Barbados under curfew as prison officers, soldiers test positive for COVID-19

T

he Government of Barbados has adjusted the curfew imposed on December 31, 2020.

This was announced late Friday by Prime Minister Mia Mottley during a COVID-19 update to the nation.

According to Mottley, Barbados will be under a curfew from 9:00 pm (local time) until 5:00 am daily, starting today.

In making the announcement of the amendment to the previous curfew time frame, which was midnight to 5:00 am daily until January 14, Mottley said, “Certainly for the next seven days, but possibly 14, that there will have to be greater discipline on the part of Barbadians.

I've therefore advised the Attorney General to draft a further directive that will allow us to institute a curfew from nine o'clock at night.

Also with immediate effect, no permission will be granted for social gatherings.

Prime Minister Mia Mottley

A super spreader event on Boxing Day has led to an additional 45 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 in the country.

Minister of Health Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Bostic, disclosed during Friday night's press conference that a bus crawl attended primarily by prison officers of Her Majesty's Prison and some members of the Barbados Defence Force on

Saturday, December 26, is being linked to the spike in cases.

The 45 confirmed cases comprise 32 persons from the prison, and four from the Barbados Defence Force (BDF).

The four from the BDF, along with 17 from the Prison Service, all attended the bus crawl. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

S President Donald Trump could take “reckless” military action against Iran in his final days in office, experts have warned, as tensions between Tehran and Washington mount on the eve of the first anniversary of top Iranian general Qassem Soleimani’s assassination.

The US flew B-52 bombers over the Gulf three times in the past month, most recently on Wednesday, in what the Trump Administration called a deterrence measure to keep Iran from retaliating on January 3, the anniversary of Soleimani’s killing in a US drone strike.

But with less than a month left in the White House, Trump is under pressure from key allies in the Middle East – namely Israel and Saudi Arabia –

Experts say the threat of a wider war between the United States and Iran remains in the final weeks of President Donald Trump's administration

to take action on Iran, said Danny Postel, Assistant Director of the Center for International and Area Studies at Northwestern University.

“Trump is a very wounded and very cornered animal in an end-game scenario. He’s got a few weeks left, and we know that he

is capable of extremely erratic behaviour,” Postel, an expert on Iran and US foreign policy, told Al Jazeera in an interview.

“It may be the case that his most erratic, most reckless lashing out is yet to come.”

On Saturday, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said, “New intelligence from Iraq indicate[s] that Israeli agent-provocateurs are plotting attacks against Americans – putting an outgoing Trump in a bind with a fake casus belli.”

Without providing evidence to back up his claims, Zarif warned Trump to “be careful of a trap”. “Any fireworks will backfire badly, particularly against your same BFFs [best friends forever],” he tweeted. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Boat carrying 20 people goes missing between Bahamas and Florida

T

he US Coast Guard said it has suspended its search for a boat that left the Bahamas but failed to arrive as planned in Florida.

Some 20 people were believed to be on board the blue and white 29ft (9m) Mako Cuddy Cabin vessel.

The boat set off from

Bimini in the Bahamas on Monday and was due to arrive in Lake Worth, Florida, on Tuesday.

The search was suspended on Friday after rescue teams covered some 17,000 sq miles (44,030 sq km) over 84 hours.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the fam-

ilies of the missing people," said Capt Stephen V Burdian of the US Coast Guard.

"I encourage anyone with information about the people aboard to contact us as soon as possible." (Excerpt from BBC News)

Top Cop praises "mature” T&T, no one held for parties or fireworks

P

olice Commissioner Gary Griffith believes the people of T&T have grown and matured as it related to the hosting of parties and use of fireworks to ring in the new year.

In an interview on Friday morning – which followed a long night of monitoring festivities across the country on the night of December 31 and into the wee hours of January 1 – Griffith said, “What I saw last night (Dec 31) is a very positive sign for this country.”

Pleasantly surprised by it, he went on, “It showed the professionalism and maturity of this country.

Griffith said they had not received any reports of anyone hosting events around midnight which meant persons did what was required of them.

In addition, he said there were no reports of private residences hosting large parties or major events.

Griffith credited citizens for understanding the appeal by the various authorities to observe public health regulations as he said, “Persons would not be aware of the damage that could have been done to this country if it

is that all hell broke loose and people just threw caution to the wind and said, this is my time to ring in the new year because I had a rough time last year and I intend to do what I want to do. This was not done.”

Acknowledging the bitter complaints from certain quarters regarding

warnings not to host old year’s night parties or flout the law, the CoP said the behaviour displayed on December 31, 2020, was an indication of the responsibility, maturity and professionalism of our people.

(Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

30

SUNDAY, JANAURY 3, 2021

WI need to cultivate new legspinners in first-class cricket” – says WI Chief of Selectors Roger Harper

By Brandon Corlette

I

n many parts of the world, legspinners of all varieties can be found in abundance, but this is not the case in the Caribbean, as the drought of leg-spin bowling continues.

The West Indies Test team that is touring Bangladesh, where spin-friendly conditions abound, does not have any front-line legspinner. This is as a result of the limited amount of leg-spinners who play Regional 4-Day cricket in the Caribbean.

According to Cricket West Indies Lead Selector Roger Harper, he and his selection pannel are having difficulty locating a leg-spinner in the longer version of the game.

“I would really like to look at a leg-break option, but I cannot think of one for the longer version.

We recognise the potential and the potence of quality leg-spin in international cricket. We don’t seem to have anyone in the first-

CWI Lead Harper

Selector

Roger

class set-up at the moment, and that is something we will try to cultivate,” Harper disclosed on the recent Mason and Guest radio programme.

Agreeing with a statement made by the lead selector is rare, but this is one of those occasions when there is concurrence. In the 2019-2020 Regional 4-Day tournament, only a handful of leg-spinners were on show.

Trinidad and Tobago Red Force veteran Imran Khan, Guyana’s Devendra Bishoo, Windward

Islands’ Keron Cottoy, Jamaica’s left-arm wrist spinner Dennis Bulli, and the Leeward Islands’ duo of Damion Jacobs and Hayden Walsh were the frontline leg spinners on show.

Having played three matches in the 2019-2020 4-Day tournament for the Red Force, Khan claimed 13 wickets. Over the years, Khan has been one of the top spinners in the Region. In 105 first-class matches, Khan has taken 423 wickets, with 25 fivewicket hauls, but, at age 36, he is still to make a Test debut.

During the last Regional 4-Day campaign, Bishoo was recovering from an injury. He played only three matches and took five wickets. Among the current leg-spinners in the Caribbean, Bishoo is one of the better players. He played 103 first-class matches and has taken 387 wickets, with 117 of those being Test wickets.

At age 35, Bishoo seems

Arsenal see off baggies in ruthless display

A

rsenal continued their Premier League resurgence with a ruthless victory over strugglers West Brom at The Hawthorns.

Defender Kieran Tierney’s excellent solo run and curling finish put the Gunners in front in the first half, before the impressive Bukayo Saka rounded off a stunning passing move to make it 2-0.

Alexandre Lacazette added the third and fourth goals after the break - smashing in a rebound from Emile Smith before Rowe’s shot was set up by Tierney.

It was Arsenal’s third league victory in a row, after they had failed to win their previous seven.

West Brom, playing their fourth match under new manager Sam Allardyce, remain second from bottom and six points from safety.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta had said he wanted his players to “show confidence” at The Hawthorns, and they certainly did that in a dominant and eyecatching display.

Hector Bellerin forced Sam Johnstone into a save within two minutes after Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang broke down the left, and Saka tormented full-back Dara O’Shea on the opposite wing constantly during the opening half.

It was Saka’s ball that fizzed past the back post, inches away from the toe of Aubameyang, after the 19-year-old had got the better of O’Shea and hit it straight at Johnstone.

West Brom were being suffocated, and Tierney’s burst of pace to get around Darnell

Hayden Walsh Jr.

to be running out of time for a recall, but time will tell whether or not he dominates Regional cricket once more and earn a West Indies recall.

Windward Islands’ Cottoy is more of an all-rounder. In the seven matches he played in the 2019-2020 Regional 4-Day tournament, Cottoy took seven wickets, but also scored 432 runs at an average of 54.

In Cottoy’s overall first-class record, he played 11 matches

Damion Jacobs

and claimed 11 wickets. Looking at Cottoy, who is not even a specialist spinner, speaks volume of the limited leg-spin assets in first-class cricket.

The other wrist spinner is Dennis Bulli, who plays first-class cricket for Jamaica. He played only two matches in the recent season, and took three wickets.

He played a total of 13 matches, and has taken 33 wickets in his short first-class career thus far.

Meanwhile, the Leeward

Imran Khan

Islands’ Damion Jacobs played three matches in the recent 4-Day season, and claimed six wickets, while Walsh Jr, who is the limited overs leg-spinner, played only one first-class match in the 2019-2020 season, and went wicketless in the 12 overs he bowled.

West Indies selectors are in search of leg-spinners, but in order for them to represent the West Indies, they must dominate Regional cricket.

GCA optimistic of approval for resumption of cricket

By Timothy Jaikarran

Furlong, before bending it into the far corner, was the perfect way to open the scoring.

Saka made it 2-0 by rounding off a slick, one-touch passing move that former Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger would have been proud of.

West Brom could offer no response after the break either, and Arsenal were 3-0 up on the hour when Lacazette eventually blasted in the rebound from a catalogue of errors by defender Semi Ajayi.

That was game over, but Lacazette was allowed to add a fourth when he was left unmarked to divert Tierney’s cross into the roof of the net four minutes later.

Arteta, knowing the job was done, was able to bring off Saka and Emile Smith Rowe following impressive performances from both youngsters, while Arsenal continued to create chances to round off a very enjoyable evening in the snow.

Challenge facing Allardyce just gets bigger Allardyce’s first match in charge of West Brom - a 3-0

drubbing by Aston Villa after captain Jake Livermore had been sent off - was a sign of just how tough this job was going to be.

Then that 1-1 draw with Liverpool at Anfield provided hope. The Baggies were resilient, organised and tireless.

But heavy back-to-back defeats by Leeds United and now Arsenal at home have brought things back down to earth.

West Brom were overawed in defence, out-run in midfield, and frustrated by a lack of opportunities in attack throughout this confidencecrushing defeat. Their rare sniffs at goal came from a Granit Xhaka error in the first half - Matheus Pereira chipping it through to Matt Phillips, who struck it straight at Bernd Leno - before Callum Robinson’s finish was ruled out for offside in the second half.

Substitute Rekeem Harper’s long-range strike deep in stoppage time was also comfortably turned behind by Leno.

It was West Brom’s third home loss in three under Allardyce, and they have conceded 12 goals with no reply in those games. (BBC Sport)

T

he Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) had many plans for cricket in 2019, but, in the blink of an eye, the COVID-19 pandemic took the world by storm and everything came to a halt.

The players could no longer do what they loved the most, and that was, give their all on the field over the weekends. But things are looking a bit positive in 2021, despite COVID-19 still being on the scene.

Chairman of the Georgetown Cricket Association’s (GCA’s) Competitions Committee, Shaun Massiah, is optimistic about this impending season, as he is hopeful that permission would be granted for the restart of cricket.

This publication sat down with Massiah and asked him a series of questions: Q1: What is the GCA looking forward to in the new year?

A: First of all, we, the GCA, are looking forward for the approval from the Task Force to resume cricket, as well as good weather.

Should we get the approval, we would convene a meeting with our affiliated clubs, (and) would set out our rules pertaining to the COVID-19 pandemic (obtained) from the Task Force, as well as

Chairman of the Georgetown Cricket Association’s (GCA’s) Competitions Committee, Shaun Massiah

what should be done before, during and after at a venue and a cricket match.

Next, we have our Elections coming up on the 28th of January, 2021, and hopefully, when that is done, the new executives can carry on the good work.

Q2: What would you urge the players to do as they wait?

A: I can only urge all players to keep themselves as fit as possible. Keep doing some selftraining in terms of ball and socks; bowling to a stump or stumps; or train in groups of 5, even if it is throw-downs, by hitting at least 300 balls per day or more, based on their time.

They can also play some table tennis just to keep their reflexes and hand-eye coordination. They can also do a lot of skipping, and some shuttles like a Beep test,

among other exercises.

Q3: How soon, and what is in the works if there is to be a restart of GCA cricket?

A: Once we get that approval, and (we get) good weather, we can see a resumption as early as 16th January or the 23rd January 2021. We have our first and 2nd division 2-day competition to complete, as well as our 2nd division 40- over to complete; and if all is well, there are a lot of other new competitions to start, such as 1st division 50 overs; under 13, 15,17, & 19 competitions; Under 23 1st and 2nd division 2-day; 1st and 2nd division T/20, among some other competitions that are in the pipeline. We at the GCA are still calling on all to maintain the COVID-19 protocols throughout this year as you go about your business and sports.

Massiah has said,” Happy new year to all our sponsors and potential sponsors, captains, coaches, curators, executives of our affiliated clubs, members and sports journalists of the media/press, the Umpires and Scorers Association, players, parents, friends of cricket and supporters. Thanks for (your) cooperation in 2020, and we hope we can continue to work even closer this year. God bless us all.”

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2021

Georgetown clinch ‘Bounce back’ glory!

31

CLASSIFIED ADS FOR SALE Fresh Organic Ginger for Sale Tel. #6884264 New Pulp Egg Tray for Sale. Tel# 6884264

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

d a tough time e close, but ha m ca ll) ba n (o Jermain Junor of the net finding the back star-studded Story

and photos by

Y

Jemima Holmes

ou can always tell the quality of a football game by the scorecard at the finish. Often, the toughest and most entertaining games are the ones that go nil all into extra time and penalties, or the ones that see a goal in the dying min-

final encounter looked like school football at first, slothful and slow to start.

The momentum grew midway in the first segment, but from the looks of it, every striker was having an off day, as their finishing lacked skill. Much credit, however, should be given to the goalkeepers Alex Murray and

i n g more promise in front of the goal than his predecessor had.

Linden’s most distinct opportunity to equalise came when a corner was grant-

Whether it was a case of a flag unheeded or the referee making a conscious decision that it was not good enough to call a foul, only Sherlock Holmes could tell, but Georgetown soon saw their saving grace unfold.

In direct sequence, a player fell, rolled, and the linesman soon shot his flag into the air, waving vigorously; but, to Linden’s dismay, the whistle never sounded to pause play, and with the opposition distracted, Kelsay

defensive line

eventually sounded, and heads were bowed, some in disappointment and some in silent prayers of thanksgiving; but the result was that

Kelsey Benjamin (11) as he approached the nets moments before striking the winning goal

ed and the kick was lofted over the head of the players gathered outside the net.

Appearing as though it would

Sese Norville, who, along with their respective defenses, kept at bay any goal attempt.

Rain came and went, and yet the handful of in-person spectators and officials didn’t witness a goal as the remaining minutes in the first half elapsed.

Action time

In Tuesday’s game against West Demerara All Stars, Daniel Anthony sank a marvellous freekick to bring up Georgetown’s winning goal. At the beginning of the second half on Friday, the Georgetown Captain attempted a similar shot, which was barely punched out by Sese Norville.

This seemed to be a wakeup call for Linden, as the upped their urgency towards the goal.

Nicholas Mc Arthur 19 was the joint highest goal scorer

While it is clear that the players were out of competition stride for just about 10 months, owing to the coronavirus pandemic, the

chances to sink a goal, but their knocks on the door of the promised land went unanswered on every attempt.

Meanwhile, Nicholas McArthur and Dorwin George were the victims of a similar fate, their inability to find the back of the net growing with each passing play.

A battle on the

The flag, ref!

A glimpse of the final action between Georgetown and Linden

utes.

Yes, games with a 7-0 margin are enthralling, but there’s just something about the teams and fans erupting in joy at the scoring of a single goal after biting their nails nervously when missed opportunities went a begging.

So was the case on Friday evening at the National Stadium, Providence, as the Linden All Stars and the Georgetown All Stars locked horns in the final of the ‘Bounce back to Football Classic’.

The New Year final not only brought a dose of football to its patient fans, but it also created a platform for players to stretch their legs ahead of a packed international calendar for the Guyana Senior Men’s National Team.

Sese Norville and his award for best goalkeeper

Abumuchi Benjamin and Jermain Junor set up a lodging, rent free, within the 18-yard box, and had many

the Capital City team would take home the Trophy Stallsponsored trophy.

For his final heroics, Kelsey Benjamin was adjudged the tournament’s most valuable player (MVP), while Abumuchi Benjamin and Nicholas Mc Arthur shared the most goals trophy for their two goals apiece scored over the two- day tournament.

In the end, Norville still walked away with the prizes for best save and best goal-

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

NOW!

Sese Norville is left dazed as the ball hits the nets

Benjamin played Houdini with the ball, getting away from the nearest defender, Colin Nelson.

Instead of going straight on, Benjamin outfoxed Nelson in the corner, and took the ball wide before attempting his shot at the goal.

Norville, who was impeccable with the gloves until this moment, slipped and the ball went through, unharmed into the net for the only goal of the game in the 69th. While the goal was met by a removed shirt from Benjamin and cheers from the Georgetown support team, Linden begged and pleaded with the referee, but the deed was done.

Thereafter, Linden ruled possession as they scampered to find the equalising goal, but every shot at the nets went high and wide.

Clearly having an offnight, Benjamin’s substitution came a little too late, with his replacement show-

Kelsey Benjamin receiving his accolade for MVP from Kashif Muhammad

sail in, the ball diverted midair and, instead of making its way into the nets, hit the crossbar and bounced just outside the line of the goal.

Minutes later, another corner kick opportunity came just as close, but Alex Murray once again displayed his brilliance in the net, keeping a Linden goal at bay.

The final whistle was

keeper.

The Champions, Georgetown, received a trophy, medals and a $1M cash prize, while the runners-up, Linden, settled for $500,000.

The tournament’s sponsors included, ExxonMobil, KFC, Mohamed’s Enterprise, Tiger Rentals, Trophy Stall and Ground Structures Engineering Inc.

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

SUNDAY, JANAURY 3, 2021

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Page 31

Georgetown clinch ‘Bounce back’ glory!

WI need to cultivate new leg-spinners in first-class cricket” GCA optimistic of approval Page 30

– says WI Chief of Selectors Roger Harper

for resumption of cricket

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.

Page 30