Guyana Times - Sunday August 1, 2021

Nationwide coverage coverage from from the the best best news news team team in in Guyana Guyana Nationwide Issue No. 4726 guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON BEACON OF OF TRUTH TRUTH THE

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021

President announces billions in assistance for flood-affected citizens …households, farmers to benefit from over $7B …estimated $23B loss in production

See story on page 7

Emancipation Day 2021

African Guyanese integral to national development –…says Head of State reparative justice must include full, unconditional apology See story on page 3

ExxonMobil cuts 6 more COVID-19 flaring by 96% … flash gas compressor now operational fatalities, 65 Pages 11 & 29

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

From coffee logie to historic landmark – St Bartholomew’s Anglican P16 Church’s history

Education P30 Ministry set for NGSA 2021 …exams to be held August 4, 5

Lindener wanted for drive-by P34 shooting Giftland Mall, MovieTowne to keep theatres closed

…say venture unprofitable with food, beverages sale restrictions P28

Page 33

new cases …pneumonia injections do not cover COVID-19 – Health Minister warns

Queenstown – a village rich with history and culture Page 15

Canje P32 businessman, wife robbed outside home

Woman breaks car window, escapes after driver P32 refuses to stop

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NEWS

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Emancipation Day 2021

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Sunday, Aug 1 – 11:00h – 12:30h and Monday, Aug 2 – 00:30h – 02:00h and 12:00h – 13:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Sunday, Aug 1 – 10:30h – 12:00h and Monday, Aug 2 – 11:55h – 13:25h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

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

Winds: South South-Westerly between 1.34 metres and 3.12 metres.

High Tide: 10:28h and 22:52h reaching maximum heights of 2.19 metres and 2.21 metres.

Low Tide: 16:22h reaching a minimum height of 1.05 metre.

SATURDAY, JULY 31, 2021

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COMMODITIES Indicators

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Crude Oil

$76.33/barrel

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African Guyanese integral to national development – Head of State

…says reparative justice must include full, unconditional apology

O

n the occasion of Emancipation Day, President Dr Irfaan Ali reminded all of the importance of African Guyanese to national development, while also touting the need for Guyana to recommit to securing reparations from the international community for those of African descent.

August 1 marks Emancipation Day and according to the President, who credited African Guyanese with helping to mould his upbringing and political career, it is important that Guyanese seize the opportunity to celebrate the African Guyanese community’s contribution to Guyana.

“I have benefited from the advice and support of a number of outstanding and dedicated professionals of African descent whom I am proud to call friends, colleagues, brothers and sisters. These relationships, however, are not defined by distinctions of race, class or religion. This, to me, is the essence of being Guyanese,” he said.

He noted that while time is taken to pay homage “to our African-Guyanese brothers and sisters on the occasion of Emancipation, we must seize this opportunity to acknowledge, to value, and to celebrate their tremendous achievements and contributions to national development.”

According to the Head of State, African Guyanese have distinguished themselves in all spheres of human endeavour.

Their achievements include laying of the foundation of Guyana’s economic infrastructure, establishing the village movement, pioneering undertakings of the peasantry, developing Local Government systems, promoting co-operative institutions and other social organisations and being in the forefront of the emergence of local trade unionism.

“You, our AfricanGuyanese brothers and sisters, remain integral to national development and continue to excel and contribute to our nation’s progress.

African-Guyanese doctors, nurses and other medical personnel are among those on the frontlines providing life-saving care and treatment to our sick and infirmed.”

“They are securing our borders, policing our territorial waters and safeguarding our towns, villages and communities. You are among Guyana’s dedicated teachers who are moulding the minds and values of our children – Guyana’s future leaders. As sportsmen and women, you are making our country and region proud by

President Irfaan Ali

your amazing accomplishments and performance.”

The President further pointed out that AfricanGuyanese occupy senior positions in the State, where they work assiduously to improve the quality of public services to our citizens.

Additionally, he noted that African-Guyanese farmers, fishers, loggers and miners are generating wealth; professionals and entrepreneurs contribute immensely to industry and commerce.

Reparations

Pointing out that the abolition of slavery was a defining moment in Guyana’s history that ended the abhorrent, inhumane system of human enslavement, President Ali noted that Emancipation Day is a day to reflect on the heroic courage and sacrifices of the

African ancestors in their epic struggle for freedom and human dignity.

But he reminded that that freedom was not accompanied by recompense for the atrocities committed against those of African descent who were enslaved.

As such, Ali said that Emancipation Day remains a constant reminder of the debt that is still owed to Africans and their descendants – a reference to reparations.

“It is therefore fitting that on this day, we as Guyanese recommit to the goal of gaining international reparations for the crime of African enslavement. Reparative justice must include a full and unconditional apology from those responsible and/or who benefitted from the trans-Atlantic trade in captive Africans and their consequent enslavement.”

Reparative justice, however, he noted, cannot be confined to such an apology, adding that it must go further. “Guyana will continue to support the efforts being made within the Caribbean Community to press for the convening of an international summit to demand reparative justice for the victims of the trans-Atlantic slave trade, African enslavement, and its enduring effects,” President Ali said.

He also paid tribute to the indomitable will of those who rebelled against the indignities of slavery.

The President noted that Guyana’s history is punctuated by uprisings – courageous acts by enslaved Africans, including the decisive blows for freedom that took place in 1763 (Berbice slave rebellion) and 1823 (Demerara rebellion).

“As we look to the future on this anniversary of Emancipation, I assure you, our African-Guyanese brothers and sisters, that you will not be excluded from or left behind in Guyana’s national development. Every citizen will benefit from the opportunities which are being unlocked. We want every Guyanese to be part of this development, sharing in its transformation and in its resultant benefits.”

“As I said during my inaugural address to the 12th Parliament earlier this year and as I have repeated on many occasions after, an essential part of my Government is inclusion.

As Guyanese, we should be defined by our nationality and by our common love for our country. The establishment of the One Guyana Commission will give life to our vision of oneness,” Ali said, reiterating his call for togetherness and brotherhood. (G3)

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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

Emancipation T

he Roman Emperor Paulus once ruefully opined, “Homo homini lupus” – “man, to man, is a wolf” and nowhere was this more apparent than the institution of slavery instituted from the 16th century by the Europeans to provide labour by Africans shipped to the “New World”, which Columbus had stumbled over in 1492. While the Greeks, Romans and indeed Africans also had slaves, New World “chattel” slavery was qualitatively so different as to usher in consequences that still hold the entire world in thrall.

In chattel slavery, the slaves were the personal property of owners (masters), who had total control over them. Chattel slaves were not even considered human. To justify this abomination, Europeans created a host of theories which were then promulgated in their educational, legal, political and other systems of thought to convince even the enslaved to accept their condition.

One was the story of Ham, who, the Christian Bible said, looked at his naked, drunken father Noah and was cursed along with all of his descendants to be slaves. As to how dark-skinned Africans were deemed descendants of Ham was never explained, but was used as late as the 20th century by the Mormon Church to discriminate against people of African descent. Be as it may, the Spanish, who were the first to bring Africans as slaves to the Americas deemed them to be bereft of souls and as such were being done a favour to be associated with Whites. They were also deemed to be “savages” and bereft of culture – never mind that if culture is a people’s “way of life”, all men have culture.

Whites, then, would also be “civilising” the Africans and presumably they should have been thankful.

The cruelty inflicted on the slaves to extract their labour was unimaginable and from one perspective, even irrational. One would have thought it made sense for the plantation owners to conserve their property, but this is where the dehumanisation of the enslaved Africans came in: they were also considered as expendable and would-be “burdens” when old. In defining the slaves as “savages”, all of their cultural practices were forbidden and were subjected to severe punishment if caught engaging in, even in drumming, for instance.

The British abolished the slave trade across the Atlantic to their colonies in 1807 and in 1833, passed the Emancipation Act to take effect the following year on August 1. However, they mandated that there be a period of “Apprenticeship” during which the ex-slaves would transition into paid labourers, but compelled to work for specified times and conditions. In Guyana, around 82,000 Africans were freed, with their owners receiving the highest compensation for their “loss” in the entire Caribbean. The British tried to convince the world that they emancipated their slaves on “humanitarian” grounds. But while there were these sentiments, as usual , the actual rationale was to serve the greater interest of Britain.

By the end of the 18th century Britain had become the most industrialised nation and policy makers advised that the mercantilist economic principles, which demanded imports be discouraged through high tariffs, be abandoned in favour of free trade. The proposal was argued by Adam Smith in his “Wealth of Nations” of 1776. Under free trade, British manufactured goods could enter other foreign markets, but the latter countries would then demand the same terms for their products, like sugar. But British mercantilism was undergirded by the “Triangular Trade”: trinkets and guns from Britain to Africa for slaves; slaves to the Caribbean for local agricultural products and the last back to Britain for pounds. Jettisoning mercantilism meant jettisoning slave trading and slavery and these were duly jettisoned.

The planters, who remained influential in Guyana, lost their preferential sugar prices in Britain and refused the demands of the freed Africans at the end of Apprenticeship in 1838 for higher wages. They instead reintroduced an old exploitative labour mechanism – indentureship - from India, which unleashed repercussions that still reverberate in our body politic.

Employees of Demerara Bank displaying their African attire in commemoration of Emancipation Day

Let us celebrate a successful anniversary!

Dear Editor, Guyanese are indeed celebrating the first year of Dr Irfaan Ali as the President of Guyana. However, we must never forget the numerous attempts to rig and derail the results of the National and Regional Elections in 2020.

Genuine efforts are in place for constitutional reforms and electoral reforms must be completed for us to have complete reformation of Guyana electoral machinery. The Guyana Elections Commission must be transformed into an organisation that Guyanese have confidence and trust in, and must hold free and fair elections. The Commission must get rid of the infamous “trio” immediately. The motion to dismiss the Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield, along with Deputy Chief Elections Officer Roxanne Myers and Region Four Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo was amended to add termination of contracts as a means of removing the unwanted officers from their posts at GECOM. It is most heartening to know that the amendments were approved by the Chairperson, Justice Claudette Singh. The blatant disregard and disrespect to the Chairperson and open defiance of court orders in his desperate pursuit to fraudulently declare the APNU/AFC coalition as winners of the March 2, 2020 National and Regional Elections are more than enough sins to remove

Lowenfield.

The events that unfolded after a peaceful and successful March 2, 2020 National and Regional Elections were serious and was punctuated with brazen and blatant attempts to steal a Government.

As the counting and verification process was successfully carried out in nine of the ten administrative districts the PNC abandoned the legal process of using the Statements of Polls and then decided to call false numbers from a manufactured “broad sheet” in an effort to rig the results in Region 4.

Guyanese had to endure all the tension, frustration along with threats and bullying as 33 days of recount took place only to verify that the People’s Progressive Party SoPs were true and correct. As a consequence the PPP/C was declared as clear winner of the National and Regional Elections.

This nation had to wait for five long months as the PNC/ APNU/AFC had their knees on our people’s neck.

Court action after court action was the order of the days as all attempts were put in place to derail the elections after the PNC and GECOM bandits failed in their attempts to do the rigging.

As Guyanese celebrate the first anniversary, we must recognise the fact that it was the dynamic leadership of the PPP/C, the unity of our people and the power-

ful support of our leaders in Caricom and the imminent ambassadors that made it possible. Our democracy

must prevail.

Sincerely, Neil Kumar

My thoughts on Govt’s performance so far Dear Editor, As it will soon be one year since the PPP/C Government took office, I write to you to express my thoughts on their performance from 2020 to date. I trust that you will permit me to do so.

Firstly, let me start by saying that without a doubt, the Government has shown commitment towards the development of Guyana. I believe that their efforts should be commended because even amidst challenges, they have managed to roll out major infrastructural works across the country whilst simultaneously dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. This, in addition to the fact that improvements are being made in other sectors like housing and water, and hinterland development shows that the Government is on the right path. I applaud the Government for what they have done so far in just one year in office.

I wish to draw attention to the agricultural sector in particular as I believe this is one of Guyana’s most important sectors. We have seen the Government reopen some of the Sugar Estates, creating hundreds of jobs for displaced workers. We have

also seen them inject millions into reviving the sugar industry which will significantly benefit Guyana in the long run. However, the fact that the Government has focused on developing the sector as a whole is noteworthy in my opinion. For instance, the Government has established a $1.1 million coconut nursery at Kairuni on the SoesdykeLinden Highway, awarded a contract for a new $21 million lab for Rice Research Station and even began creating fish ponds in Region 6. In addition, they have also rolled out training programmes to boost agricultural production and established Community Development Councils in communities like Ithaca for the same purpose. These initiatives and projects would give the sector a significant boost, ultimately benefitting the country as a whole.

I thank the Government for all that they have done thus far for us Guyanese and urge everyone reading to do the same. Guyana will become a global powerhouse under the current leadership. I am confident of such.

Respectfully, Erin Northe

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deserves The five months Guyana stood still PPP/C to be commended

Dear Editor, The Irfaan Ali-led PPP Govt is nearing the completion of its first year in office.

As an objective observer and a concerned Guyanese who is not a member of any political party in Guyana, I would say to all Guyanese, regardless of race or political affiliation that they should never allow what happened in the aftermath of the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections to occur again.

The March to August 2020 period was extremely tension filled, an incendiary national situation, a powder keg waiting to explode.

Thankfully, international pressure eventually forced President Granger to capitulate. The perpetual trumpeting by the incumbent President “I will accept the results as declared by the GECOM Chair sounded (superficially) wonderful but the root of such “confidence” in the Chair conveys sinister underpinnings.

Everyone should put the country first and stand up for what is right and just.

Sadly, many in high society simply analysed how the wind was blowing to choose their team. The peo-

ple of Guyana, especially the youths who are 65 per cent of the population, must never again experience such political trauma. What transpired at the Ashmin building and at GECOM head office in March 2020 by the Returning Election Officer of Region Four and others was reprehensible, scandalous, outrageous, and borders on treason. It was a blatant attempt to steal the elections in order to remain in power. And those who perpetrate such vicious and thuggish acts and held the nation hostage for five months must face the full force of the law and should be banished from politics and society. So far, this exercise has revealed the snail-paced process of the PPP to pursue the course of justice.

For five months, Guyanese witnessed an election filled with trauma, falsehoods and threats of violence as the Government at the time tried to discredit the elections and overturn democracy in the country.

In this period, a number of frivolous cases were filed in the courts and appeals were made all the way to the

Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) but, as expected, they were all were dismissed or thrown out; credit to the sound judicial minds in Guyana and the CCJ. Every effort was made by the ruling party at the time to deny victory to the PPP. It failed.

Guyana owes thanks to the overwhelming support from the ABC and EU countries, Caricom, the Organisation of American States (OAS) and the Commonwealth of Nations whose goal was to make sure that democracy prevailed in Guyana.

International observers and diplomats were appalled at the barefaced attempt to produce fake and artificial numbers in front of the world via social media and fabricated spreadsheets displayed on bedsheets. Threats, criticisms, and disparaging remarks were made to many including some of the justices in the country as well as both the Canadian and US ambassadors. The threats and terrorism of the coalition eventually proved fictitious, baseless and can be construed as barefaced emotional outbursts.

The five months or-

deal has disgraced citizens, stained the country, and damaged its reputation in the international community. The lesson learned is that overturning the election results in Guyana after the votes were cast and counted was not an easy task considering the impact of high technology and social media. It is time for everyone, including our politicians, not to dabble or be involved in such deceitful venture. Whether we believe it or not, Guyana has and continues to be a blessed land with its talented and skilled people at home and abroad and its abundance of raw materials and natural resources, especially its huge oil reserves.

What happened in the five precarious months in 2020 must never be allowed to occur again in Guyana.

It would be most gratuitous if the PPP can acknowledge those persons (Freddie Kissoon comes readily to mind) who stood guard at the doors of democracy.

Sincerely, Leyland Roopnaraine New York

Saving lives is an act of worship Dear Editor, One of the most significant lessons we have learned from this pandemic is that we are all in this fight together. Our actions, or lack thereof, have a huge influence not just on ourselves, but also on our families, communities, workplaces, and mankind as a whole.

Despite this reality, the goal of vaccinating everyone against COVID-19 has become extremely difficult, particularly in this digital age when we are witnessing an enormous amount of unsubstantiated health content proliferating on social media.

To me, this is really concerning and problematic. While I believe it is reasonable for people to be concerned about their health and to thoroughly research their options, I strongly advise that when listening to and reading about COVID-19 vaccines, it is critical to consider the accuracy of the content - ensure it is from a health organisation and/or Government source.

What is even more disturbing is that some of this misinformation is being disseminated by individuals with a specific goal, who are using people’s fears and anxieties to propagate conspiracy theories regarding COVID-19 vaccines. As a result, a growing number of individuals are refusing to receive the vaccination. It must be noted that while natural COVID-19 measures such as wearing a mask, sanitising, social distancing, proper diet, and so on are all effective, vaccines against COVID-19 are our greatest hope of bringing the pandemic to an end. The ben-

efits of the vaccine far outweigh the minor risks of any possible side effects. It is the same as taking paracetamol, antibiotics, or aspirin despite their side effects.

Subsequently, in addition to the plethora of misinformation surrounding the COVID-19 vaccines, others contend that requiring the COVID-19 vaccinations violates their human rights.

At this juncture, this writer believes that the vaccinated have the right to protect themselves against the unvaccinated. According to one Human Rights principle enshrined in Guyana’s Constitution, Article 40 (1) states, “Every person in Guyana is entitled to the basic right to a happy, creative and productive life, free from hunger, disease, ignorance, and want. That right includes the fundamental rights and freedoms of the individual, that is to say, the right, whatever his race, place of origin, political opinions, colour, creed or sex, but subject to the respect for rights and freedoms of others and for the public interest.” In Article (25), it states, “Every citizen has a duty to participate in activities designed to improve the environment and protect the health of the nation.” As a result, I believe that while individual rights should be respected, the overall well-being of the general public must take precedence.

In light of the foregoing, we, the Guyana Islamic Forum for Education, Peace, and Religious Solidarity, the Electric Mosque’s Presentation of the Teachings of Islam, in collaboration

with the Universal Peace Federation – Guyana, takes this opportunity to urge all of our brothers and sisters in Guyana and elsewhere to take the COVID-19 vaccinations. We fervently request that people who have not yet been immunised be vaccinated in order to achieve what is known as “herd immunity.” Herd immunity occurs when a significant amount of the population is vaccinated, resulting in too few people available to act as hosts and, as a result, the virus’s transmission stops. One of the most significant aspects of herd immunity is that it protects not just those who get immunised, but also those who are not vaccinated for whatever reason. As Almighty Allah says in the Holy Quran, “… if anyone saves a human life, it shall be as though he had saved all mankind” (5:32). With this in mind, let us look beyond ourselves and consider what is best for mankind as a whole. In the perspective of Almighty God, such a tiny gesture is equivalent to saving all of humanity. Just imagine!

Furthermore, we support the views of His Excellency Dr Irfaan Ali, the Government of Guyana, President Macron, and other nations calling for the implementation of the COVID-19 “passport.” We are all in favour of vaccinating all individuals who are eligible to be vaccinated, or of requiring vaccination passports to enter any social gatherings, such as schools, places of worship, restaurants, and business entities. Those who

do not wish to cooperate may remain at home since they cannot endanger those who do. Additionally, to safeguard the vaccinated, the unvaccinated should give a PCR test result demonstrating that they are COVID-19 negative once every 14 days, or whenever necessary.

In Islam, taking care of one’s health is a religious duty. And, even more Divine is the one whose actions save the lives of others. Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him) has also thought us that, “In their mutual love, compassion and sympathy for one another, believers are like one body: when one part of it suffers a complaint, all other parts join in, sharing in the sleeplessness and fever” Al-Bukhari and Muslim.

In a nutshell, we are all in this together. We are one body! COVID-19 is not just about our individual selves and our own bodies; in fact, none of us are safe until all of us are safe. In other Holy Scriptures, the Bible teaches, “Feed the hungry, and help those in trouble. Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon” Isaiah 58:10.

Humanity, my dear brothers and sisters, is in trouble.

Humanity is in a state of catastrophe. Humanity is in peril. Individually, let us all do what we can to help stop this pandemic, so that our collective acts may help preserve mankind. As such, we implore you to get COVID-19 vaccinated.

Sincerely, Dr Roshan Khan Sr

Dear Editor, Tomorrow will mark the one-year term of the PPP/C Administration being in office. While their accomplishments have been remarkable, I wish to take this time to remind Guyanese of the despicable actions of the APNU/AFC coalition leading up to the August 2 declaration.

It is important that we do not forget the attempts made by the APNU/AFC cabal after March 2, 2020, as the five months after the elections were one of Guyana’s most difficult periods. After the General and Regional Elections concluded on March 2 last year, we saw many blatant attempts to stymie the will of the electorate through fraud, with the obvious beneficiary being the coalition. This all started with Region Four Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo’s attempt to declare fictitious figures in favour of the coalition. The APNU/AFC created an atmosphere of chaos after that at the Ashmins building. They resorted to the familiar PNC tactic of thuggery and intimidation by mobilising their supporters outside of the building. It is my view that they wanted to create havoc so as to further alter the results of the elections in some way. The true colours of the coalition came out during that time.

During this time Guyanese were fearful of a return to the dark days of the PNC dictatorship.

Economic activity came to

a standstill. Meanwhile the coalition big wigs used the period as an opportunity to further engage in massive transfers of State assets and wanton acts of corruption.

Little to no regard was paid to the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on the country and its citizens.

The coalition spoon fed its supporters on a daily diet of fake news and false hope knowing fully well that it had lost the elections. It hid its copies of the SoPs and claimed victory – even hosting a celebration at which President Granger gave congratulatory remarks. The PPP/C had no issue releasing its copies of the Region Four SoPs for the public to see which showed a victory in their favour.

It took five long months of struggling and fighting to ensure that democracy and the will of the people prevailed. Decent minded Guyanese never gave up in the struggle to preserve their democracy. They dealt accordingly with every single one of the coalition’s rigging attempts. With its oneyear term approaching, the PPP/C deserves to be commended for all their efforts.

Guyanese, let us keep on supporting our Government and keep on rejecting the attempts of the spineless cabal, the APNU/AFC, to derail progress in our beloved nation.

For your consideration, Attiya Baksh

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SUNDAY AUGUST 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Reflect on sacrifices Extend hand of friendship – ERC made by our African T ancestors – PPP he Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) extends Emancipation greetings to all Guyanese at home and in the diaspora in observing another anniversary commemorating the end of slavery.

The ERC, with its task to promote national harmony, contemplates that in 2021, one hundred and eighty-three years after Emancipation, Guyanese of African descent can reflect on the sanctity and

T

he People’s Progressive Party (PPP) wishes to extend greetings to our AfroGuyanese brothers and sisters across the country and in those in the diaspora on the occasion of Emancipation 2021, which marks the 187th anniversary of the formal abolition of slavery in British colonies.

This anniversary provides yet another opportune moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by our African ancestors who were brought to these shores in chains in order to provide free labour to the sugar planters. Stripped of their humanity and dignity and forced to toil long hours, to say that our African ancestors suffered at the hands of the sugar planters would be a gross understatement.

During that genocidal process, many were tortured and brutally killed for standing up for their rights. In the long march to freedom, many battles were fought, including the Berbice Slave rebellion led by our National Hero, Cuffy. In the end, the resilient spirit of resistance prevailed and freedom was attained.

The fortitude and the resoluteness for success of

our African ancestors and the foundations they laid for our society, must therefore serve to imbue us all with a profound sense of pride and purpose as we endeavour together to build our country for the betterment of all and to confront adversities. The values they have instilled and the contributions they and their descendants have and continue to make in advancing our country will remain invaluable.

Traditionally, during this period, there would have been a plethora of activities across the country to mark this very significant national event which attracted thousands of Guyanese.

However, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has led to an unavoidable scaling down of public events again with direct impact on this year’s celebrations. Despite those challenges, the true spirit of what Emancipation symbolises will never be diminished.

Our Party once again extends Emancipation greetings to all Guyanese, in particular our Afro-Guyanese brothers and sisters.

People’s Progressive Party

right to freedom; an entitlement of all humankind.

From the ships at sea transporting their chained human cargo to a life of privation and hardship on the plantations, the ancestral experience remained imbued with the courage to change and shape the future for a better existence. The rebellions and the consequences are graphic memorials of that yearning.

Stripped of their identities and cultural baggage,

they endured the challenges to rediscover self and value as freedmen. It is that perennial resolve and desire that must remain throughout from every commemoration to the next.

The initial foundations of the colonial state were laid by the sacrifices of the bondsmen, not omitting contributions made later by other compatriots to the diverse society.

The ERC encourages all during this commemoration, and in the midst of the pan-

demic, to extend their hand of friendship and brotherhood to neighbours virtually, as a show of appreciation for that inevitable, memorable event the abolition of slavery.

It paved the way for the future assembly of more peoples with a repository of unique cultures to share and thrive in one multi-ethnic Guyana.

Happy Emancipation Anniversary to all from the management and staff of the Ethnic Relations Commission!

Emancipation was driven by human desire for freedom – PNC E mancipation celebrates the greatest enterprise in our nation’s history – the abolition of human enslavement and the transformation of plantations into a nation. Emancipation marked the termination of two hundred years of the greatest crime against humanity – the Trans-Atlantic Trade in Captive Africans – and their enslavement in the Guiana colonies of Demerara, Essequibo and Berbice.

Emancipation was driven by the human desire for freedom and economic independence.

Emancipation in the Guiana colonies initiated the greatest movement of freed peoples in the western hemisphere. The Village Movement began on 7th November 1839 when 83 free men and women from five plantations – Ann’s Grove, Dochfour, Enmore, Hope and Paradise – agreed to pay 30,000 guilders (f 30.000) for Plantation Northbrook, which they renamed Victoria Village.

Africans, once free, were able to buy 6000 hectares (about 15,000 acres) of land in cash, attesting to their visionary thinking and thrift in the decade after Emancipation.

Historians wrote: “This was an economic miracle… In the whole western hemisphere, there was no movement like the Village Movement of British Guiana at the time in which thousands of people were able to move off of the plantations.”

Emancipation, this year, reminds us of the resolutions of the General Assembly of the United Nations designating the decade – 1st January 2015 to 31st December 2024 – as the International Decade for the People of African Descent.

The “International Decade” acknowledges that Africans were the victims of the greatest crime against humanity and continue to suffer from dispossession and discrimination. The Decade recognises that persons of African descent have not yet fully overcome the legacy of colonial under-development which continues to contribute to their present condition.

Guyanese today are the beneficiaries of the economic enterprise and efforts of the pioneers of the Village Movement. Our fore-parents bequeath the legacy of land to build a robust agrarian econo-

my and an independent peasantry. Our generation must aim at establishing enduring economic emancipation on the

solid foundation they laid.

People’s National Congress

In unity, strength is most sustained – GAWU

T

he spirit of yearning for freedom – that liberty of mind, body, and soul from ownership by others never deserted the African slaves and the indentured contracted workers who followed them after full Emancipation in 1838. Numerous were the uprisings, rebellions, protests, riots and strikes.

Emancipation never came willingly or cheaply from the colonialists.

Against those sentiments, the GAWU salutes the memory of those who struggled and sacrificed for freedom and the descendants of our African forefathers who today have hopefully inherited their spirit of justice and true freedom from those who dared to stand up against the brutal, enslaving colonial system.

As we look back across the centuries at the atrocities and wrenching pain, which slaves suffered, during what should be assessed as the darkest period in human history, it seems mandatory that we celebrate the measures of freedom we now enjoy. Slavery was established for economic reasons, with accompanying assumptions about race, colour and perceived inferiority, which for centuries was rationalised from biology to theology, but such theories have long been proven unscientific and self-serving.

Slavery was an organised, profitable enterprise. Former Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr Eric Williams, in his “Capitalism and Slavery” demonstrated that it was the profits from the slave trade and slavery, which consequently made England the great workshop of the world.

The late Professor Walter Rodney also explained that Western Europe’s vital sectors in finance, shipping, mining, insurance, agriculture, manufacturing and technology were developed from these two enterprises, and in that process, millions were reduced to beasts of burden, and

stripped of their overall identity.

Western Europe went to Africa with their superior ships and cannons. Slaves were traded and packaged in barracoons as cargo, then taken across the horrendous ordeal of the Middle Passage.

Men, women, children were brutally abused on journeys that lasted between six weeks to three months, depending on the weather. Diseases were rampant, mental stress and suicides were high, with many slaves throwing themselves overboard.

In the new lands, millions lived their entire life, working from dusk to dawn, in pain.

Over succeeding generations, the minds of their children were scrubbed, being replaced with European narratives, which ensured, among other things, that they forget their past. Such unspeakable hurt, torment and cruelty cannot be equated to or compared with any other form of human interaction or relationship.

GAWU feels that this Emancipation 2021 period should reinforce in us all the lessons of the post-1838 history. In unity, strength is most sustained. The descendants of Emancipation must all share in equal opportunity as our natural and human resources become available to development for all. No group should be favoured or discriminated against because of political expediency. It is such approaches that will help preserve and give enduring meaning to achievements like emancipation and independence.

GAWU urges reflection at this time. Emancipation, Arrival and today’s challenges are issues that hold lessons for us and guide us in our pursuit and future endeavours. Let us heed them on Emancipation Day and onwards.

A pleasant Emancipation Observance 2021 from GAWU

NEWS

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President announces billions in assistance for flood-affected citizens …households, farmers to benefit from over $7B …estimated $23B loss in production

F

ollowing an extensive countrywide assessment, President Dr Irfaan Ali has announced several billion dollars in relief assistance for citizens and farmers who were affected by the recent floods that devastated communities in all 10 regions of Guyana.

He made this announcement during a live Address to the Nation on Saturday, where he outlined the assistance that would be given to various categories of households and farmers affected by the floods.

According to Ali, some 52,000 households were affected by the torrential rains and flooding that beset Guyana earlier this year.

Back in June, President Ali had declared it a national disaster. The combined assistance to households including homesteads and those with kitchen gardens, will be in excess of $3.5 billion.

“Having regards for the massive disruption in the economy and household level, particularly the agriculture sector, the Government committed to direct transfers to households and farmers to allow them in the first instance, to return to some level of normalcy in their homes whilst supporting the agriculture sector to return to productive capacity so as to mitigate against potential food shortages whilst at the same time supporting the farming community.”

He said that from the data collected, approximately 52,000 households were affected in categories of homestead farmers,

kitchen garden, and household exclusive of farms/gardens. In these categories, the Head of State noted, farmers within the context of a homestead would receive $100,000 each, those with kitchen gardens will receive $50,000 each and households excluding homestead and kitchen garden will receive 50,000 each.

losses. He went on to detail the assistance they would get.

“For rice that was ready to harvest but lost in the floods, $80,000 per acre would be given to those farmers. For rice sowed and lost in the autumn crop, these farmers will receive $65,000 per acre.

“For land that was com-

sistance the Government and the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) will be providing.

In the livestock industry, assistance will be broken down into four categories mainly subsistence farmers, small farmers, medium farmers, and largescale farmers and he stated that in these four catego-

Floods in Region Seven last week

The President explained that the combined assistance to homestead farmers, kitchen gardens and households for these categories will be in excess of $3.5 billion. He acknowledged that whilst some largescale farmers were severely affected, especially in the rice and poultry sectors, the ceiling of assistance will not exceed $10 million for individual farmers.

Rice

With regards to the rice sector, where 50,000 acres of farmlands and 2000 farmers were directly affected, Ali noted that these farmers suffered heavy

pletely prepared but was not sowed, $45,000 per acre would be given to these farmers. In addition, to this support, 60,000 bags of seed paddy would be made available. The combined assistance in these four categories would be in excess of $3.2 billion.”

When it comes to the livestock industry, he said assistance will be given from subsistence to large scale farmers. President Ali explained that more than 2000 farmers were affected by the floods and as such, will benefit from over $600 million in direct transfers. This is outside of the technical as-

ries more than 2000 farmers were affected.

“In addition to these direct transfers, the Agriculture Ministry and GLDA will be assisting through genetic improvements, drainage and irrigation works, technical support, and extension services to the approximate value of $500 million,” he said.

Planning for the future

The scale of destruction which the President noted had been meted out to the various sectors means that much infrastructural work will have to be done. For instance, President Ali noted that the agriculture sector

suffered the greatest loss with 92,000 acres of farms and farmlands completed affected.

When it comes to the sugar industry and the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), this was also significantly affected with estimated losses in the fields of over $1.5 billion. It is a similar story with the mining sector.

According to Ali, over 50 per cent of mining operations were affected, as mining communities were cut off as a result of infrastructural damage. An initial assessment estimates rehabilitation work in excess of $1 billion would be required for the mining community.

“Initial estimate points to approximately $23 billion or more in loss of production. Damage to the Forestry Sector, loss of production and damage to equipment is estimate at an excess of $8 billion,” he said, adding that a full socio-economic impact assessment is being examined by the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (UN/ECLAC).

According to Ali, ongoing infrastructural works will continue to rebuild damns, farm-to-market access roads, hinterland roads, mining roads, community roads, drainage systems, and other infrastructure that were destroyed or deteriorated during the floods. Work will also continue on a national drainage plan for the future.

“I am aware that this assistance will go a long way in bringing relief. However, it can never compensate for

President Dr Irfaan Ali

the emotional and social loss, which I saw and experienced first-hand. I assure you this Government will continue to work on an aggressive national drainage plan in the context of climate change so as to mitigate further climate events and disasters,” he said.

This financial assistance comes from $10 billion in supplementary funding that the Government secured from the National Assembly last month.

Between May and June this year, heavy rains resulted in widespread flooding across the country, affecting thousands of households. The devastation includes submerged buildings and vehicles with adverse effects on crops, livestock and health.

It has been noted that the rainfall experienced in May alone was recorded as the second highest level of rainfall across the country in the last 40 years. All 10 administrative regions in Guyana experienced varied levels of flooding, prompting Government to roll out immediate responses such as evacuation of those most at risk and flood assistance.

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Free at last…

W

…in 2021? ell, here we are, 183 years after our enslaved ancestors were finally emancipated and we’re still talking about whether the promise of freedom has been fulfilled!! Shouldn’t we have long passed that stage?? Meaning that freedom should’ve become passé by now…something unremarked. But if we’re honest about it – and not just saving our blushes – we were still ruled after 1966 – by the British!! And they still controlled every aspect of our lives to ensure we remained in a state of dependency.

“Neocolonialism” and all that!!

Think about it folks. Aren’t we still producing sugar mainly by human labour – much as the slaves did back in the day? Planting, manuring, clearing weeds, catching rats, cutting cane, fetching it on our heads, etc. etc? Can ordinary sugar workers live on $2200 per day?? If we’re really emancipated, shouldn’t we have emulated our forebears and removed ourselves from the scene of our degradation?

Why is it with all our resources, we’re still hovering precariously above Haiti in the development ratings? And imagine Haiti became free in 1804 – slaves and country! But they became enmeshed with neo-colonialism nonetheless, didn’t they?

So, the lesson your Eyewitness gets from our history is that we gotta deal with this hydra-headed monster called “neocolonialism”, if we really want to live out the meaning of “emancipation”. So, what are its bases? We can do worse than go back to our own experience. When we got “independence” in 1966, Burnham and Jagan talked a lot about “emancipation”, neocolonialism and freedom.

Their way to get us freedom was to nationalize all the big industries like sugar and bauxite that were owned by the colonials and their cohorts. We the Guyanese people now owned our resources and the White Man wouldn’t suck our life blood out any longer! That was the promise, at least!

But we know how that ended, don’t we? Even worse off than during colonialism – and some would say even slavery.

Your Eyewitness doesn’t agree. At least when we ran away to every country that we could enter – by hook or by crook! – Burnham didn’t send mercenaries to drag us back!

Immigration agents of the receiving countries sometimes did that. We had new categories of citizens – back-trackers and deportees!

But your Eyewitness is excited about where we are right now – with billions of barrels of oil struck and counting. He’s perfectly aware that Trotman and the PNC – sold us down the river (as used to be said about the betrayal of slaves trying to escape). But hey, the crumbs we’re getting aren’t anything to sneeze at. We can still fulfil our Emancipation dreams, can’t we?

But only if we quit fighting each other.

…with new institutions?

One of the lessons from slavery and the postemancipation era (into the present) is that rather than each generation or each group trying to become free “from scratch”, we form institutions that would continue down the generations and evolve to deal with contingencies. The first was the early savings being pooled to purchase villages – land, which still remains one of the most solid investments.

Literally and figuratively.

But land just left lying doesn’t increase in value…it must be used to generate income – from farming or construction or otherwise. The co-op was the mechanism that Burnham proposed we use to mobilise to add value to land. Some still hanker for these. Have they actually worked? Do we need new institutions?

Then there was the “box hand”. Shouldn’t we have evolved this to owning banks after 183 years? Anyone can open a bank…the requirements are there on the Bank of Guyana website. All we gotta do is satisfy the requirements – which are doable.

And emancipate ourselves!

…from Govt’s high-handedness.

You, Dear Readers, might think your Eyewitness has a bee in his bonnet about the four Parliamentary Sectoral Committees. But their importance go beyond mere realtime audit of governmental activities.

The Opposition can control Govt excesses.

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

9 Prisoner escapes after attempting to steal officer’s motorcycle NEWS

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

A

n inmate at the Lusignan Prison on the East Coast of Demerara escaped from the facility in the wee hours of Saturday morning.

The escapee has been identified as 38-year-old Quincy Clarke of West La Penitence, Georgetown.

Reports are he escaped sometime between 02:00 and 02:10h on Saturday. Clarke

Escapee: Quincy Clarke

was jailed on Thursday last and was supposed to serve two four-week sentences, which were to run concurrently for two counts of threatening language on Thursday last.

Police on Saturday said that two Prison ranks were on duty at the holding bay when they noticed an unidentifiable male running and pushing a black and red

XR motorcycle.

The officers shouted at the male to stop but he did not and a chase ensued. The male then dropped the motorcycle, jumped a trench and ran west into some bushes, making good his escape.

The ranks, who gave chase, later learnt that the individual was a prisoner and the motorcycle belonged to a Prison Officer. G9)

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NEWS

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Pneumonia injections do not cover COVID-19 – Health Minister warns

Challenge to Guyana’s democracy

T

he circumstances under which the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) finally acceded to office last August 2 do not need any reprisal. The challenge they faced then – and still face – is a political one. In this instance, through a narrative created by the People’s National Congress (PNC) and other members of the Opposition that there was not a democratic change of government after the March 2 elections, but “regime change”, imposed by the Western powers to oust the PNC/A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) coalition.

There has been such a sustained harping on this theme to the Opposition’s Ravi Dev support base – and it must be remembered that they have just a 3.3 per cent gap between them and the PPP based on the recount figures – that even in the face of the blatant GECOM manipulations to favour the coalition, “regime change” has become a mantra for Opposition supporters. They have followed their leadership’s decision to not officially “recognise” the PPP as the legitimate government and referred to them as “the illegal cabal”.

This position is very subversive because it does not just question the legitimacy of the PPP Government, but the legitimacy of the democratic process itself. Legitimacy is present when people believe it is right and proper to accept and obey the authorities, and abide by the requirements of the political system. This is extremely unfortunate since our ethnicised politics has finally arrived at a point where no one group controls an absolute majority, encouraging each of the parties (if they are rational) to adopt accommodative programmes and rhetoric to attract “outside” voters. Other plural societies have had to introduce mechanisms such as the Alternative Vote, etc, to encourage moderation, but ours was achieved through the shifting demographics occasioned via higher emigration rates by PPP’s ethnic base.

Since 2011, as was shown at the polls, Guyanese have healthily experienced the “politics of in and out” with alternating governments rather than the old “ethnic censuses”. While the two major parties still operate in a political field polarised by the two major ethnic groups, each now have an equal opportunity to form the Government seeking votes from the Mixed and Amerindian segments. The African Security Dilemma is now resolved, but the PNC seem unwilling to be accommodative.

Maybe they believe the Mixed votes will maintain their traditional orientation towards them to create an inbuilt majority.

Legitimacy of the government, but more critically the legitimacy of the political system, is closely linked to trust by the electorate – crucial in transitioning democracies like ours.

Political trust is the glue that holds the political system together, especially in ethnic societies. Sadly, the PNC are undermining this overarching value by impugning State institutions when challenging each of the Government’s actions as being “racist and biased” against their supporters. These range from the school grants, COVID relief, allocation of house lots and employment to police actions, constitutional Commissions and judicial decisions. Working in African Guyanese communities is called “cultivating traitors”.

While democracies need critical citizens in and out of organised Oppositions to hold Governments accountable, it can be counterproductive when the trust deficit extends to the political system. Political trust is present when citizens feel that their own interests would be attended to even if the authorities were exposed to little supervision or scrutiny. Based on what we saw recently in South Africa, where anger against corruption in the ANC saw PIOs scapegoated and attacked, the PNC’s claims of corruption, cronyism and discrimination outside the institutions introduced to deal with such accusations, place further strains on our democratic transition. And risk a descent into violence.

Especially when the challenge to the integrity of our democracy under the PPP has always been to test the security apparatus, a foundational raison d’être of the state. Our politics spilled over into violence by the PNC from the 1960s to facilitate “regime change” to oust the then PPP Government. The present internal PNC leadership struggle has devolved into a rabid intraparty competition where several challengers are accusing the incumbent leaders of being “too soft”, even though they had provoked racial violence on WCB. The leadership outbidding presents the possibility of a new round of violence initiated by factions trying to prove their “radicalism”. All factions agree on Desmond Hoyte’s dictum that “the only language the PPP understands is force”. His “slow fyaah; mo’ fyaah” strategy is being lauded.

This is not the language of politics, but war and presents a clear and present danger. It must be addressed.

H

ealth Minister, Dr Frank Anthony has clarified that the injections being used for cases of pneumonia do not cover the COVID-19 virus. Only jabs designed specifically for the novel coronavirus will provide protection.

Speaking during the latest briefing on Friday, it was pointed out that the coronavirus infection would cause a viral pneumonia in positive patients but only the COVID-19 vaccine works against the disease. This clarification came amid rumours that the pneumonia injections work against COVID-19.

“Coronavirus is a virus and the way that it operates is that you’ll get infected through your upper respiratory tract, then it goes down into your lung and then in your lung, you have the pulmonary stage. That can result in people having difficulty to breathe. The infection really causes a viral pneumonia. The injections that are

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony

given for some form of pneumonia does not cover coronaviruses or this type of disease,” said Dr Anthony.

It was positioned that if a person wants to protect themself, then they need to be administered with a vaccine currently used in the national COVID-19 vaccination campaign.

“That is why if you want to protect yourself, and to prevent the pneumonias that you would get with the coronavirus, such as the COVID-19 vi-

rus, then you get the vaccines that is specially designed against this particular disease.”

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The infection causes the air sacs or alveoli to become inflamed and fill up with fluid or pus. That can make it hard for the oxygen you breathe in to get into your bloodstream.

According to the WHO, most people infected with the

coronavirus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment.

Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer are more likely to develop serious illness.

Most common symptoms include fever, dry cough and tiredness but can include aches and pains, sore throat, diarrhoea, conjunctivitis, headache, loss of taste or smell; and rash on skin, or discoloration of fingers or toes. Severe cases can result in difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, chest pain or pressure and loss of speech or movement.

In Guyana, a vaccinated person is one who would have received the AstraZeneca, Sputnik V, Sinopharm, Sinovac-Corona, Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna or Johnson and Johnson jabs.

(G12)

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FEATURE

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to explore it a bit more in an effort to understand and appreciate its history.

So, I got up at 12:30 am on Wednesday, prepared myself and then took the hour-long drive from my home to the Parika Ferry Stelling. My colleagues and I were going to the Essequibo Coast on the first ferry out, which was scheduled to leave at 5 am, but in order for us to get a spot on the boat for our car, it meant sacrificing some hours of sleep.

Like many people travelling over to the Essequibo Coast, we had to be at the stelling at least

By Lakhram Bhagirat

S

ituated in the county of Essequibo and sandwiched between the communities of La Union and Plantation Little Alliance, the village of Queenstown is a history lover’s paradise.

Queenstown is believed to be the oldest and largest village on the Essequibo Coast with an estimated population of over 10,000. The village’s history is rich and its people are proud keepers of that history.

However, like many communities in Guyana, the history is not adequately documented and the oral knowledge that is passed down from generation to generation is being lost. When I was told that Queenstown is among the first sets of villages in which emancipated African slaves purchased lands, I knew I wanted

two hours before boarding time to book our vehicle. Even though vehicles are booked hours and sometimes days before, you are not guaranteed a spot on the ferry.

At about 4 am we were allowed to board the MV Sabanto with our vehicle and waited for the others to come on board.

We departed the Parika Stelling just after 5 am and began our approximate one hour and thirty minutes journey to the Cinderella County.

The ferry ride was very smooth and we were treated to sunrise on the mighty Essequibo (remember,

Essequibo is we own!) and along the way, we passed our evergreen MV Malali on her first run. We also saw the MV Kanawan along the way too, some of her passengers waved at us when they saw the cameras.

We arrived at the Supenaam Stelling at about 06:45 am and by the time we disembarked the ferry, it was about 7 am. It was then we began our journey to a village I was visiting for the first time and I was both excited and tired from not sleeping in over 24 hours.

We drove leisurely, allowing

ourselves to enjoy the peaceful morning on the picturesque Essequibo Coast.

I was meeting up with one of Queenstown’s older residents, Winston Christiani, who was going to explain, to the best of his knowledge, the history of the village. Ironically, our meeting place was at Queenstown’s most historic building – the St Bartholomew’s Anglican Church and when we arrived, we were greeted by the parish’s priest, Reverend Garfield Develler and Mr Christiani.

TURN TO PAGE 15

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FROM PAGE 13

One of the big pots used to cook meals in the 1800s now sits at the back of St Bartholomew’s Anglican Church

Queenstown Public Road

Queenstown got its name by paying homage to the then Queen Victoria and was established in 1841. However, it is believed to be among the first proprietary villages in Guyana meaning that emancipated African slaves could have purchased plots of land and establish homes so they could live.

The village is about 400 acres, according to Reverend Monsel Alves – a Queenstown native – and has about 765 lots and legally became Queenstown on September 25, 1841.

It is believed that Queenstown was one of the first established villages in Guyana since records show that persons started owning lots there from as early as 1838 but the village would become legally recognised in 1841 after the recognition of Victoria in 1839 and Buxton in 1840.

Mr Christiani, in our conversation, related that the village is a combination of three plantations – Mocha, West Field and Dageraad and from the knowledge he has, it has always been a place of social cohesion.

“There is almost half and half of the races living in this village and everybody live as one. It has been that way from long and it still is that way. We have all races living in here and we live in peace,” the elder gentleman said.

Based on historical records, the plantations of Mocha, West Field and Dageraad was owned by one Mr Carberry who was among the first individual slave owners. He was the founder of the first proprietor village in British Guiana and would sell lots to the emancipated slaves for $100, $150 and $200 depending on the size and location.

In examining the history of the village, Reverend Alves said that in 1908 the heir of a former slave master who came to the colony had advertised the village for sale. However, the then inspector of the District HR Cameron brought the issue to the village Chairman’s attention and the sale was opposed.

Mr Christiani told me that at first about 150 persons lived in the village along with former slave masters. But now it is home to persons of all ethnicities and the population has grown from about 150 to well over 10,000 as the village enters its 180th year.

As we sat on a pew in St Bartholomew’s Anglican Church, Mr Christiani related that a lot of the village’s history is now being lost because the older generation is dying out and the younger ones moving away from the traditional knowledge.

“Back in the day, this church used to be full but now we don’t have that. A lot of the young people are doing their own things and the history we have about this village is not passed on. I remember back in the days August Monday (Emancipation) was a big thing for everybody. We used to have a whole week of celebration and then everybody would cook and we have one big thing.

Now it is not like that,” he said.

Life in Queenstown has always been regarded as a paradise and over the years, the village has developed. It houses several churches, a mosque, a temple, businesses, schools and other amenities to make residents’ lives more comfortable.

Education in the village started through the Anglican Church and back then it did not discriminate between the religious denominations.

Queenstown remains rich in history and culture and there are many residents there dedicated to protecting and preserving the history of the village.

At the end of my discussion with Mr Christiani and other residents there, I realised that they are proud of their village’s history, and they should be. Queenstown is rich not only economically but also culturally and historically.

16 FEATURE

From coffee logie to historic landmark

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

– St Bartholomew’s Anglican Church’s history

By Lakhram Bhagirat

S

t Bartholomew’s Anglican Church on the Essequibo Coast is as old as the village of Queenstown in which it sits. Being there from the inception means that the church went through everything that the village has been through whether it is a struggle for dominance or development of the community.

The fact remains that

colonisers used Christianity as a weapon against enslaved Africans. It is no lie that they were beaten into submission and the teachings of Christianity forced.

To date, a lot of the existing laws in former colonies remain products of the teachings of Christianity regardless of the societies being secular.

In Guyana, it is no different.

St Bartholomew’s Anglican Church, howev-

The cemetery at the side of the church

er, has been a pillar of hope for many in the community of Queenstown along the Essequibo Coast. The history of the structure that hosts the church is itself connected to the enslaved Africans.

There is very little information regarding the history of the church and most, if not all of the elders with the knowledge of the journey of the church have died. Nevertheless, Sunday Times recently sat down with current parish priest Reverend Garfield Devellier and longtime member Winston Christiani, who tried to share a bit about the history of the village’s most historic building.

In September 1841 Reverend JH Duke who was the Rural Dean of Essequibo at the time accepted the offer of Carberry, who was one of the first individual slave owners and owner of Queenstown village, to accept the large “coffee logie” to house Anglican services.

The coffee logie, located on West Field Estate was constructed by the enslaved Africans and rested flat on the ground.

As its name suggests, it was used for curing coffee beans that were planted on the Essequibo Coast during the colonial era.

The offer of the coffee logie also came with a promised annual grant of £1000 for the provision of “divine service” every Sunday. At the time of the offer, the bishop had proposed building a chapel dedicated to St Bartholomew to be under

Reverend Garfield Devellier

the assistant curate of St John Church and with the offer, he no longer had to construct a building.

The Diocesan Magazine of March 1942 records that in 1842 “the foundation of St Bartholomew was laid when services began to be held in a ‘coffee logie’ on the very spot where now stands the present building.”

The dimension of the present building, the nave, aisles and transepts are 62ftx30ft while the chancel is 22 1/2ftx30ft. The church has a seating capacity for 320 members.

Ode to the ships

If you are to have conversations with native Queenstown residents then they would all tell you that the building of St Bartholomew’s was constructed as an ode to the ships that brought slaves to Guyana. According to them, the inside of the building resembles that of the hull of the slave shops and would refer to it as an “upside-down ship”.

However, because of poor record-keeping, there are no actual documents to confirm this claim or debunk it.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

FEATURE

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From coffee logie to historic...

FROM PAGE 16

But she at times was very proud She could hear the victorious cricket team shouting aloud, They had given J.C team a good trouncing, And in the yard, with glee, they were bouncing.

She heard them shout: “J.C boy belly like a ‘guana lay out’ Float cork float!

J.C boy ‘nabel’ like a ping-pong table!

Float cork float!

J.C boy teeth like a closet seat!

Float cork float!

JC boy ‘nabel’ like a ping-pong table!

Float cork float!”

The St Bartholomew’s Anglican Church

In a piece of writing, Dr Kimani Nehusi said “A key factor in the construction of the building was of some degree of African control over their lives and their village. The enslaved always tried to subvert the intentions of the enslavers.”

What we do know for a fact was that the building was actually constructed by enslaved Africans for the purpose of curing coffee beans.

Christian, in explaining the knowledge of the building, said “It was a coffee logie because during the days of slavery the coffee was planted on the Essequibo Coast and the slaves were responsible for planting and transporting and logging of the product. This building was used as the coffee logie where they used to be storing and drying the coffee. After that, you would have found that you would have had the slave rebellion and after the slave rebellion this building was handed over as a church where the slaves also attended this church.”

“Now this building is shaped in the form of the boat that brought the slaves from Africa. You see, we still try to maintain that shape to show the shape of the boat that brought the slaves from Africa. The entire building was clay bricks and wood and then they changed it to wood but we have a lot of problems now in terms of maintenance with wood because you know getting the quality of materials. We’re trying to do our repairs using cement blocks,” he added.

He said at first the church was under the control of the colonisers since they were the ones coming from the Church of England and ministering here.

St Barts School

The church also played a major role in bringing education to the community of Queenstown with the establishment of St Bartholomew’s Anglican School, popularly known as St Barts.

St Barts was built in 1867 as a single flat building but as the demand for education grew more popular an upper flat was built in 1941.

The project was financed by the church and done with the help of the carpenters of the village.

The school’s curriculum in 1891 consisted of subjects like arithmetic, algebra, composition, geography and grammar among a few others. The school also did not refuse entrance to students because of their religious beliefs.

Doreen Ellis-Rudder, known as teacher Doreen, was the most beloved and she had written a poem “The Old St Bartholomew’s School”. Below we share an excerpt of that poem: If the old St Bart’s school building could talk She would surely be hoarse from years of flying dust of chalk.

There would be so very much to say Of all that happened from day to-day She would recall pleasant days-days of fun, With cricket in the ball field in the afternoon sun, Some occasional cheating by girls playing “lick and pinch” Boys fighting for marbles, getting into a clinch

Records

fly”

She’d like to forget the sad moments when “lashes would

When the unruly were disciplines and when lazy ones with their work They were made to comply.

Embarrassment would fill her as she remembers mothers who came to complain That their children were pinching money again and again To buy from the women who sold at school: Pepper-tamarind mango slices, metai and sugar cake, Causing children, their food at home, daily forsake.

She is now wondering what would eventually be her fate.

Should she sit in idleness as we watch her dilapidate?

After serving the village so faithfully since 1868 Please! Restore her to some former use and continue to keep her great.

Present day

St Bartholomew’s Anglican Church now has been seeing a decline in membership, according to Reverend Garfield. He said that they have been doing visitations in the community to remind members that there is always a place at the church for them.

“My advice for us is to encourage one another. That is there is a place for the church and we know there are many lapsed members in the community that we need to get to and to talk to them. We are working to build stronger relationships with the community and making sure everyone knows there is a place for them.”

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FEATURE

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

By Lakhram Bhagirat

W

inston Christiani is an institution when it comes to the history of his birth village – Queenstown.

He is one of the go-to elders in the village who would never hesitate to share his experiences along with the knowledge to anyone who is interested.

The 77-year-old has lived in several parts of Guyana and according to him, Queenstown will forever remain home so when he retired from his public service job that took him across the country, it was only right that he returned to his village.

Christiani was born in Queenstown on the Essequibo Coast and had somewhat of an unfortunate beginning. His twin died at childbirth and because of financial constraints, he was “given away” to another woman in the village for her to raise.

“I was born a twin and because of circumstances my brother died at birth and the history of my mother was that there were many other siblings

Winston Christiani at the St Bartholomew’s Anglican Church

and I was given away or adopted by another person, Mrs Farnum,” he related.

Mrs Farnum began raising Christiani and he remembered her as being an active member of the Seventh Day Baptist Church so he was introduced to religion at an early age. However, when he was just about six years old, Mrs Farnum died and he moved back home.

His mother, Roselyn Carlton, and father, David Christiani, took him back with them and his siblings.

“She was an active member of the Seventh Day Baptist Church so I grew up with that culture being with her in that church, where, at least we used to be doing a lot of singing and praying, or wherever.

That lady died and as a consequence of that, I returned to

my two parents.”

His father was a devout Anglican so he made sure that all nine of his children were christened and confirmed in the Anglican Church – particularly St Bartholomew’s Parish.

“In 1950 I was christened and confirmed in the Anglican Church and since then I have been serving in the Anglican Church in different capacities.

I was on the Vestry and so on,” he related.

“I attended the St Bartholomew’s Anglican School.

I went to St Bartholomew’s school up to the pupil teachers appointment class. Back then you had the school leaving and then you had the pupil teachers appointment class. I taught for a short while and subsequently joined the Public Works as a Clerk. I worked throughout my career at the Public Works and was at plenty places because of work,” Christiani added.

Throughout his career, Christiani served as an accountant on the Tapakuma Irrigation Project back in 1978. He was later in charge of the Ministry’s hydraulics, Essequibo Islands district and then moved to Bartica to act as a finance officer. He served in similar roles in Anna Regina and in Georgetown as well.

“When regionalism came, I went to regional Ministry in Georgetown and I continued.

I returned to the Essequibo Coast to be in charge of the finance division of the sub-treasury at Anna Regina…

Subsequently, I was transferred to Region Seven in Bartica to be in charge of the finance division. Having function there I was asked to function as the Assistant Accountant General in Georgetown for short while before my retirement. Subsequently, I returned to Bartica, where I retired as Acting Assistant Accountant

General,” the elderly man recounted.

When asked about what it was like growing up in Queenstown, Christiani said that those were the days when everyone looked out for everyone.

“We had the village movements where you had our local people who are elected by the people, to rule the village as Councillors and Chairman.

Persons were elected by the community of itself, based on your performance and how much you were willing to perform in the interests of the community. I would safely say that, growing up as a youngster, I knew that I had a very hard time, in the sense to say that the financial status of my parents was very low.”

The father of five said that he will continue contributing to the development of Queenstown for as long as he is able to.

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FEATURE

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The End of Slavery

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

By: Odeen Ishmael

T

he campaign for the end of slavery gained momentum in Great Britain and it was expected that slaves in the British colonies would soon be set free. Finally, on August 28, 1833, the House of Commons in England approved the Emancipation Bill which was earlier introduced by Thomas Buxton.

The final Act, which would come into effect on August 1, 1834, stipulated that immediate and effective measures would be taken for the abolition of slavery throughout the British colonies; all children born under the passing of the Act, or under the age of six shall be free; all slaves over the age of six years would have to serve an apprenticeship of six years in the case of field slaves, and four years in the case of others; apprentices should work for not more than 45 hours per week without pay, and any additional hours for pay; apprentices should be provided with food and clothing by the plantation owner; funds should be provided for an efficient sti-

Quamina's monument located in the vicinity of the Georgetown seawall

pendiary magistracy, and for the moral and religious education of the ex-slaves; and compensation in the form of a free gift of 20 million English pounds should be paid to the slave owners for the loss of their slaves.

The Emancipation Act successfully ended one

phase of a long and bitter struggle against a system which transformed people into beasts of labour with absolutely no human rights. Actually, slave society regarded the African slaves as mules and even referred to the offspring of a European and an African

female slave as a "mulatto", meaning literally a "young mule".

As one phase of Guyana's colonial society came to an end, an equally difficult period began. The slaves were told of their forthcoming freedom and waited with eager joy to throw off their

cruel chains and, in some cases, even more cruel masters.

It will be recalled that the East Coast Demerara rebellion of 1823 led by Quamina and implicating Rev John Smith, was largely fuelled by the feeling that the planters were deliberately withholding news of the impending freedom of the slaves. In 1833, however, Governor James Carmichael Smyth did not make the same mistakes as John Murray did ten years earlier when he failed to make public a circular from Britain proposing certain improvements in the conditions under which slaves lived and worked in British colonies. It was this document which the slaves mistook at that time for the Emancipation Order, a mistake which precipitated the slave revolt of 1823.

Governor Smyth, however, had informed the slaves of the freedom date fixed by Britain even before that Act was published in the colony on October 19, 1833. However, he did not explain clearly to the slaves the implications of the apprenticeship system which

was to succeed slavery.

There were some planters who were unwilling to comply with the Emancipation Act. Some Berbice planters announced their intention to remove their slaves immediately to Nickerie in Suriname before the Emancipation Act came into force so as to avoid its effect. Suriname did not abolish slavery until 1863.

It must be noted that attached to the Emancipation Act was the condition which bound most of the freed slaves to their former masters until 1840 and which required them to work on the masters' estates seven and a half hours each day for six days each week of the year. On news of their emancipation, the slaves were either too overjoyed to note this binding condition, or did not fully understand what it meant.

Their masters, who were generally bitter about it, and in opposition to emancipation, avoided all discussions and preparations for the changed status of the slaves on August 1, 1834.

TURN TO PAGE 24

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Happy

The End of...

FROM PAGE 23

The long-awaited day, Friday, August 1, 1834, finally arrived. It was a public holiday and many Africans who were now Christians attended religious services.

Others danced in their homes, in their yards and in the streets and the merry-making continued late into the night.

But a rude shock awaited all the ex-slaves early the following morning when they were ordered back to the fields and other workplaces. This caused great confusion since they failed to understand how they could have gained their freedom and still be forced

to work in their detested old posts.

But this condition was part of the Emancipation Act - an Apprenticeship period of six years - where the freed slaves were compelled by law to serve their old masters just as they had done when they were slaves. The masters were required to provide moral and religious education for the ex-slaves, but the planters' hostility to the Emancipation Act as a whole really meant that they would treat this sixyear period as an extension of slavery, even though the working hours were greatly reduced to seven and a half hours a day instead of

the nine and ten hours they formerly demanded of each slave.

There was disorder on the East Coast of Demerara and grumbling throughout

the colony in this first week of August. The Governor appeared personally in various places to address workers and explain the obligations which now fell upon them.

The planters called for marital law, no doubt hoping to bypass the Emancipation Act altogether.

But Governor Carmichael Smyth refused this request.

Confusion and disorder broke out on the West Coast Demerara and on August 8 four women were sentenced to the treadmill for riotous behaviour and refusal to work. Five men were sentenced to two days each

Battle at Bachelor's Adventure. An artist rendition of the Demerara Slave Rebellion 1823 (Guyana Gallery photo)

on the treadmill, and thirty-nine strokes with the cat-o'nine-tails.

The Governor visited West Coast Demerara and brought some amount of order and understanding to the workers.

With the end of slavery, the plantation owners in Guyana received very high compensation from the British Government for the "loss" of their slaves. For each slave they received

an average of 52 English pounds, which was the highest amount paid in any British colony. For a headman or driver, slave owners received as much as 230 English pounds. On the other hand, the ex-slaves, who had laboured to produce wealth for the planters and the colonial Government, received not a single cent in compensation. (From “The Guyana Story” by Odeen Ishmael)

FEATURE

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

L

ast week we established that a dog’s pregnancy lasts, on average, for 64 days.

The gestation period for a cat is approximately 59 days (52 – 69).

But how can we tell for sure that our pet is pregnant. Well, it is not so simple. For one thing many dogs and cats (and other mammals as well) exhibit an unnatural condition called “False Pregnancy.”

Q: What is False Pregnancy?

A: This condition obviously will complicate matters. The bitch or the cat shows many of the signs (physical and behavioural) of a genuine pregnancy, viz: • Unexplained weight gain.

• The entire animal looks plumper (increase in body fat – just as in the case in a real pregnancy).

• The breasts become larger.

• The breasts may even produce a milk-like fluid.

• The animal secludes itself (finding and building a “nest” site).

• The animal exhibits “Morning Sickness” (we dealt last week with this occurrence).

• The animal has abdominal cramps, as if she were going into labour.

• The animal attitude changes. She becomes much more affectionate – even to the point of cuddling a toy teddy bear or a dolly.

I should mention that I always advise owners of female dogs and cats, which exhibit a false pregnancy, to have these animals spayed (removal of the reproductive organs – ovaries and uterus), because the PSEUDO PREGNANCY is caused by a hormonal imbalance which could trigger off something more serious and life threatening in the future.

Moreover, it has been found that animals showing false pregnancy, even only on one occasion, once are more likely to have this condition recur after the next heat (oestrus). “False Pregnancy” occurs about 6-9 weeks after the animal had exhibited signs of oestrus (heat). The false pregnancy condition can be treated, but only by a veterinarian. Hormone treatment may be necessary but is tedious and with questionable long-term effect. My considered advice remains: Spay her.

Q: What are methods to determine pregnancy?

A: Firstly, let us understand that

PET PREGNANCIES – CONTINUED the cat’s/dog’s uterus (womb) is different from that of a human. The uterus of dogs and cats is shaped like the letter “Y”. The “Arms” of the “Y” are called “horns” and the bottom part is called the “body”.

It is in the horns that the kittens/ puppies will develop and grow until the day of birthing (parturition).

The best physical method to determine pregnancy is by palpation.

You do not have to be a veterinarian to “feel” the foetuses in the womb. Talk to your pet soothingly, so as to relax her. You may wish to put her on her side.

Then just place one hand below the abdomen and press upwards.

With the palm of the other hand pressing gently on the other (top) side you should be able to feel lumps one month after she had been mated and is pregnant.

I must tell you though, that later in the pregnancy (during the second month ), the uterus (womb) becomes filled with fluid, and therefore it might be difficult for the caregiver to ascertain the pregnancy by feeling the puppies which are floating in the fluid (each pup is enclosed in its own fluid).

Also, if a large breed dog (e.g., Rottweiler, German Shepherd) contracts her abdominal muscles, your feeling of the foetuses might pose a problem. In cats, palpation is much easier Other signs of pregnancy : • Abdomen becomes distended.

• Nipples and breasts become larger (and darker coloured).

• Just before giving birth, one can express a milky fluid from the breasts.

• Animal put on a lot of weight.

• She usually eats mor except for those (3-4) days when she may have “Morning Sickness”.

• During the last days of the pregnancy, she might be restless trying to locate an amenable site to build her “nest”.

Of course, we could X-ray the animal the animal, or have an ultra-sound performed. Discuss such interventions with your veterinarian.

Q: Can laboratory tests be carried out to determine pregnancy?

A: The blood and urine tests used to determine human pregnancy are not applicable

to dogs and cats.

They rely on the changes in the level of the hormone, progesterone.

There is a blood test

which measures the level of the hormone, Relaxin, that is produced by the placenta in pregnant bitches. It appears to be fairly

accurate when the animal is around 30 days pregnant. It can also help to rule out a pseudo pregnancy, since there is no

placental development. I have not been able to ascertain if this laboratory test is available in Guyana.

26 FEATURE

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

HEALTH TIPS ANXIETY PART 2

Dr Tariq Jagnarine Fam Medicine, Endocrinology / Diabetes

Anxiety and depression

Persons with anxiety disorder, may also be depressed. While anxiety and

depression can occur separately, it’s not unusual for these two mental health disorders to happen togeth-

er.

Anxiety can be a symptom of clinical or major depression. Likewise, worsen-

ing symptoms of depression can be triggered by an anxiety disorder.

Symptoms of both conditions can be managed with many of the same treatments: psychotherapy (counselling), medications, and lifestyle changes.

Children And Anxiety

Anxiety in children is natural and common. In fact, one in eight children will experience anxiety. As children grow up and learn from their parents, friends, and caretakers, they typically develop the skills to calm themselves and cope with feelings of anxiety.

But, anxiety in children can also become chronic and persistent, developing into an anxiety disorder.

Uncontrolled anxiety may begin to interfere with daily activities, and children may avoid interacting with their peers or family members.

Symptoms of an anxiety disorder might include: • Jitteriness • Irritability • Sleeplessness • Feelings of fear • Shame • Feelings of isolation Anxiety treatment for children includes cognitive behavioural therapy (talk therapy) and medications as listed above based on children’s age and the extent of the anxiety.

Teenagers and anxiety

Teenagers may have many reasons to be anxious. Tests, college visits, and first dates all pop up in these important years. But teenagers who feel anxious or experience symptoms of anxiety frequently may have an anxiety disorder.

Symptoms of anxiety in teenagers may include nervousness, shyness, isolationist behaviours, and avoidance. Likewise, anxiety in teens may lead to unusual behaviours. They may act out, perform poorly in school, skip social events, and even engage in substance or alcohol use.

For some teens, depression may accompany anxiety. Diagnosing both conditions is important so that treatment can address the underlying issues and help relieve symptoms.

The most common treatments for anxiety in teenagers are talk therapy and medication. These treatments also help address depression symptoms.

Anxiety and stress

Stress and anxiety are two sides of the same coin.

Stress is the result of demands on our brain or

body. It can be caused by an event or activity that makes us nervous or worrisome. Anxiety is that same worry, fear, or unease.

Anxiety can be a reaction to stress, but it can also occur in people who have no obvious stressors. Both anxiety and stress cause physical and mental symptoms.

These include: • Headache • Stomach ache • Fast heartbeat • Sweating • Dizziness • Jitteriness • Muscle tension • Rapid breathing • Panic • Nervousness • Difficulty concentrating • Irrational anger or irritability • Restlessness • Sleeplessness Neither stress nor anxiety is always bad. Both can actually provide persons with a bit of a boost or incentive to accomplish the task or challenge before them. However, if they become persistent, they can begin to interfere with person’s daily life. In that case, it’s important to seek treatment.

The long-term outlook for untreated depression and anxiety includes chronic health issues, such as heart disease

Anxiety and alcohol

In persons who are anxious frequently, they may decide to drink alcohol to calm their nerves. After all, alcohol is a sedative.

It can depress the activity of the central nervous system, which may help them feel more relaxed.

In a social setting, that may feel like just the answer that is needed to let down their guard.

Ultimately, it may not be the best solution. Some people with anxiety disorders end up abusing alcohol or other drugs in an effort to feel better regularly. This can create a dependency and addiction. It may be necessary to treat an alcohol or drug problem before the anxiety can be addressed. Chronic or longterm use can ultimately make the condition worse, too.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

FEATURE

HEALTH TIPS

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

ANXIETY PART 2

FROM PAGE 26

Food and anxiety

Medication and talk therapy are commonly used to treat anxiety.

Lifestyle changes, like getting enough sleep and regular exercise, can also help.

In addition, some research suggests the foods we eat may have a beneficial impact on our brain if we frequently experience anxiety.

These foods include: • Salmon • Chamomile • Turmeric • Dark chocolate • Yogurt • Green tea Medical Treatment Options for Anxiety • Benzodiazepines Doctors may prescribe these for certain people with anxiety, but they can be highly addictive.

These drugs tend to have few side effects except for drowsiness and possible

dependence. Diazepam, or Valium, is an example of a commonly prescribed benzodiazepine.

• Antidepressants These commonly help with anxiety, even though they also target depression.

People often use serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), which have fewer side effects than older antidepressants but are likely to cause jitters, nausea, and sexual dysfunction when

treatment begins.

Other antidepressants include fluoxetine, or Prozac.

• Tricyclics This is a class of drugs older than SSRIs that pro-

vide benefits for most anxiety disorders other than OCD. These drugs might cause side effects, including dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, and weight gain. Imipramine and clomipramine are two examples of tricyclics.

Additional drugs a person might use to treat anxiety include: • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) • Beta-blockers • Buspirone Natural remedies are used for anxiety Lifestyle changes can be an effective way to relieve some of the stress and anxiety that persons may cope with every day. Most of the natural “remedies” consist of caring for the body, participating in healthy activities, and eliminating unhealthy ones.

These include: • Getting enough

sleep • Meditating • Staying active and exercising • Eating a healthy diet • Staying active and working out • Avoiding alcohol • Avoiding caffeine • Quitting smoking cigarettes Prognosis Anxiety disorders can be treated with medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of the two.

Some people who have a mild anxiety disorder, or a fear of something they can easily avoid, decide to live with the condition and to not seek treatment. It’s important to understand that anxiety disorders can be treated, even in severe cases. Although anxiety usually doesn’t go away, people can learn to manage it and live a happy, healthy life.

28 NEWS

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Giftland Mall, MovieTowne to keep theatres closed …say venture unprofitable with food, beverages sale restrictions

W

ith Government now allowing the opening of theatres, which must accommodate only vaccinated persons, the Giftland Mall has said that it will keep its Caribbean Cinemas closed owing to the current restriction to sell food.

The measures, which will take effect from today and will end on August 31, 2021, gives cinemas the greenlight to operate but only at 40 per cent capacity of the building or seating area. Patrons will only be allowed entry upon possession of a vaccination card to show their immunisation status.

“The operator of the casino, betting shop or cinema shall ensure that only vaccinated patrons are at their place of business and those patrons have in their possession an official identification document and

we are kindly requesting a review of this position by the authorities,” the mall’s management said in a release to the media.

Movietowne

their vaccination card, which they shall produce when requested to do so by the operator or any person authorised by the Minister of Health,” a new gazette document stated.

However, on Saturday, Giftland said patrons have been enquiring about a possible reopening. But opening its doors at the Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara location without the option of offering beverage and snacks is a setback.

Moreover, the manage-

ment has called on authorities to consider the provision to allow for movie snacks after examining the possible risks and conditions.

“Caribbean Cinemas urges the Government to reconsider this position, as eating in cinemas with appropriate social distancing and facing away from one another poses far less health risk than common dining…The decision to not allow food which is a necessity for a cinematic experience is regrettable and

Meanwhile, also on Saturday, MovieTowne via social media, posted a notice saying that it too cannot re-open its theater since it will be unprofitable considering the health ministry’s restrictions on the sale of food and beverages.

It stated that it is commendable that after 16 months of closure the Government via the Covid-19 Taskforce has granted permission to reopen but it is not viable if food and beverages are not being sold.

“Concession offerings for moviegoers are part of the cinematic experience, which are similar to

in-house dining at restaurants and bars…without implemented checkerboard seating and increased sanitisation protocols, persons are adequately socially distanced to enjoy their favourite movie snack,” MovieTowne posted on social media.

Since the first COVID-19 case was detected back in March 2020, businesses have been impacted significantly.

President Irfaan Ali had informed less than two weeks ago that that the cinema industry had been clamouring to be reopened, prompting Government’s consideration.

While acknowledging that persons have democratic rights, he also reminded that they also have a social responsibility. The President said responsible

persons who took the vaccine to protect themselves and their families cannot be put at risk by an irresponsible few who chose not to get immunised.

“We have to find the balance… So, whatever measure we put in place has to bring balance to the equation, so that the responsible act [persons have] made by taking the vaccine is not subjected to [someone else’s] irresponsibility,” he asserted.

National COVID-19 measures have also stipulated now that operators of public transportation must be completely immunised against the novel coronavirus, as a requirement to transport passengers in the country. Additionally, persons will only be allowed to dine in restaurants after presenting their COVID-19 immunisation card. (G12)

NEWS

29

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

6 more COVID-19 fatalities, 65 new cases S

ix more persons have died from the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) locally, the Health Ministry reported on Saturday.

This takes the country’s death toll from the virus to 541 – 65 of which were recorded for the month of July.

The latest fatalities are four persons from Region Four: a 95-year-old woman; a 56-year-old man; a 56-year-old woman and a 33-year-old woman. They all died on July 29. A 61-yearold man from Region Four also succumbed on July 30; while earlier on July 10, a 48-year-old woman from Region 10 also died.

According to the Ministry, these persons were seeking care in the facilities and died while receiving medical care.

In one day, 65 out of the 1165 samples that were sent for testing returned positive, leading to confirmed cases rising to 22,523.

There are 14 patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU); 86 in institutional isolation and 699 in home isolation – a total of 799 active cases. Another three persons are in institutional quarantine. Amid the pandemic, 225,694 individu-

als were tested – of which 10,981 males and 11,592 females contracted the virus.

New cases

Meanwhile, a regional breakdown of new cases shows three for Region One (Barima-Waini); one in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam); 11 in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara); 44 in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica); two in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice); three in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne); seven in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and eight in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

There were no new positive cases in Regions Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) and Eight (Potaro-Siparuni).

For the new month of August, the national curfew from 22:30h to 04:00h remains intact unless earlier terminated, extended or amended by notice of the Health Minister after an assessment of the prevailing public health conditions. The other measures will also be enforced.

There is still restriction on social activities, where no one shall host or attend a private party, banquet, ball, reception, hotel swimming pool or water-

park, wage, vigil, club, discotheque, social club, civil organisation or association, fraternal society; or any other social activity.

The measures have remained unchanged for essential services to operate 24 hours a day, and these include: hospitals, pharmacies, the Judiciary, Parliament, diplomatic corps, Disciplined Services, solid waste management, airports, hotels or other accommodations, energy services, mining operations, security services, telecommunication providers, fisherfolks, limited port operations, construction, post service and freight, funeral homes, among others.

In addition, from 04:00h to 21:30h, stakeholders will still be able to access services at banks, markets, supermarkets, grocery shops, gas stations, postal or shipping services, beauty salons, barbershops, hardware stores, clothing stores; or other maintenance services.

All Guyanese are reminded to observe the protocols of the COVID-19 emergency measures which emphasises the need for correct and consistent use of a face mask when leaving your home; the importance of maintaining the six feet

GUYANA COVID-19 DASHBOARD JULY 31 UPDATE

NUMBER OF NEW CASES

65

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL ISOLATION

86

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN HOME ISOLATION

699

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN COVID-19 ICU

14

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL QUARANTINE

3

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (FEMALES)

11,542

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (MALES)

10,981

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES IN GUYANA SINCE 2020

22,523

NUMBER OF RECOVERED CASES

21,183

TOTAL 1st DOSE VACCINATED

249,908

FULLY IMMUNISED

136,919

TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

541

DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES SINCE MARCH 2020 REGION 1

1302

REGION 2

629

REGION 3

2559

REGION 4

10,100

REGION 5

760

REGION 6

1880

REGION 7

1279

REGION 8

380

REGION 9

2090

REGION 10

1544

HERE IS HOW YOU CAN BE SAFE DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC Wear a face mask.

Keep a physical distance of at least 6 feet.

Wash your hands or use handsanitizer If you have any symptoms, call the COVID-19 Hotline.

GET MEDICAL ADVICE ON COVID-19 FROM MOH 24/7 HOTLINE NUMBERS: 2311166; 226 7480; 624 6674; 624 2819; 624 3067 OR 180/181.

physical distance from others; and the need for good hand hygiene.

If anyone is displaying

any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19 or needs any additional information, contact the

COVID-19 Hotline 2311166, 226-7480 or 624-6674 immediately or visit www. health.gov.gy. (G12)

30 NEWS

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Education Ministry set for NGSA 2021 …exams to be held August 4, 5

T

he National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) will be written on Wednesday and Thursday, and preparations have been finalised for a smooth rollout across the 33 examination centres across Guyana.

On Wednesday, students will tackle both Papers One and Two for English and Science; followed by Mathematics and Social Studies on Thursday. This is the second year in which the NGSA sittings have been facilitated under COVID-19 regulations.

The Education Ministry said on Saturday that as the pandemic persists, guidelines have been established to ensure the safe and inci-

dent-free writing of this examination. These measures include the sanitising and washing of hands before entering examination buildings, the wearing of the recommended face mask, observing and maintaining social distancing at all times; and the cleaning and sanitising of buildings and furniture.

Meanwhile, candidates are not required to wear their respective primary school uniforms. In the case where a child is not dressed in uniform, they must be dressed modestly and as best as possible with clothes that bear little or no writing, pictures and or diagrams that would give cause

or contribute to any form of cheating.

“Candidates will be allowed to leave the examination centres to have lunch but must return at least 15 minutes before the beginning of the next session.

Candidates can take a bottle of water or suitable liquid to drink into the examination room once the bottle has no writing that can aid the student in the examination,” the Ministry informed.

This year, the 33 new examination centres are spread across eleven education districts. The intention was to make the lives of children and their parents easier by eliminating the

burden of having to travel long distances to get to their respective exam centres.

“In addition to the examination centres, the Ministry of Education has established emergency centres that can accommodate those candidates who may have tested positive for COVID-19 or are in quarantine. This was done for the 2021 CSEC and CAPE examinations whereby COVID-19 positive candidates were accommodated and allowed to write their examinations in a separate building.”

Parents of Grade Six students who have tested positive or are in quarantine but are still able to and wish to write the examination are asked to contact the school’s Head Teacher or indicate same to the Department of Education in their respective regions. Parents can also call 226-1237 to make

the necessary arrangements.

Further, as of this year, candidates who are 12 years and seven months of age and older will not be penalised with respect to their raw scores as in previous years.

This category of candidates will have their raw scores standardised the same way as all other candidates.

“The individual subject scores for each candidate will be given to decimal places and their total score will be rounded to the nearest whole number.

This is to ensure a more accurate reflection of each candidate’s performance,” the statement added.

The Ministry has made arrangements for the students in the public education system to receive an NGSA Care Package containing face masks, pencils, erasers, sharpener, hand

sanitiser and ruler. Each pupil was given a study package containing notes, worksheets for the four subjects, past papers and 12 textbooks on the four subject areas.

In order to increase the pass rate and prepare students, the Ministry had launched the Quiz Me Platform on its website earlier this year which offered students the opportunity to practice NGSA type questions and be given their results instantaneously. The NGSA Booster Programme was also launched, whereby local teachers recorded teaching the topics were featured.

These videos are aired on the Guyana Learning Channel according to a timetabled schedule and are also available for streaming on the Guyana Learning Channel’s YouTube channel. (G12)

31

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

32 NEWS

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Canje businessman, wife robbed outside home

Businessman Danny Milton Sankar

A

n East Canje, Berbice couple was robbed at gunpoint by two armed men shortly after arriving home on Friday night.

Businessowners, Danny Milton Sankar, 58, and his wife arrived at their Lot 588 Fort Ordinance Housing Scheme, East Canje, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) home in their motor car sometime around 19:35h and

as they were about to enter the yard, they were attacked.

Sankar’s wife had stepped out of the vehicle, leaving her belongings in the car, and went to open the gate when he was confronted by two suspects, who held him at gunpoint.

The armed men relieved the couple of one Samsung Galaxy A51 cell phone, value unknown; one Samsung Galaxy S7 cell phone valued $70,000; one Samsung Note 8 cell phone valued $90,000; one Samsung J7 cell phone valued $59,000; one Samsung J5 cell phone valued $55,000; a quantity of Digicel and GT&T phone cards; an undisclosed amount of cash, one gold chain valued $120,000; two gold rings valued $110,000 and one pair of reading glasses valued $160,000 along with other items including documents.

In addition, the bandits also took the couple’s motor car, a Burgundy Spacio, PNN 7220, valued $3,300,000, which they

used to escape. However, the vehicle was later found abandoned in another street in Fort Ordinance.

The incident was reported to the Police and checks made for the suspects in the area were futile.

Investigators also reviewed CCTV footage from the victim’s home but the robbery was not caught on the camera.

However, Sankar complained to reporters about the way the Police are handling the investigation.

“Even if you feed the Police with information they are not still [doing anything] with the information…,” he stated.

The businessman further explained that he was robbed several times before.

“This is the third time [I was robbed]. I was beaten off a motorcycle in 2007, October 11; I was robbed here on March 15, 2015, and I was robbed [again on Friday]. The second robbery, I do my own investigations without the Police.

The businessman and his wife were robbed outside their Canje home

They made some arrests and it was the right person and one of the individuals that robbed me and my

wife also, the Magistrate found him not guilty and found the man who give him the firearm guilty,”

Sankar claimed.

Since then, the businessman said he has applied for a firearm licence but was never granted approval. “[I went] to the Commissioner of Police with meh application and didn’t get it for years. At one time, I bin and they take fingerprints and they do everything to give you a firearm licence, where they visit the [inside] of my home, the [outside], the outside of my business place but they never give me a firearm licence,” Sankar stated.

Meanwhile, Police said further investigations into Friday’s robbery are in progress.

Motorcycle bandits rob businessman, wife

P

olice are now on the hunt for two armed bandits who robbed a businessman, his wife and other person at their Better Hope, East Coast Demerara home of cash and several gadgets.

According to Police, the robbery occurred at about

08:45h on Friday morning.

The articles stolen include: $300,000 cash; a white iPhone 12 Pro Max valued at $320,000; a gold iPhone 12 Pro Max valued at $320,000; and one black Samsung Tablet valued at $80,000 It was reported that the

40-year-old businessman as well as his 38-year-old wife and another male, all of Better Hope, were in their yard when the suspects approached them on a motorcycle.

One of the suspects, who was allegedly armed with a handgun, ran into the yard demanding valuables.

The victims were told to lay on the ground while their monies and gadgets were taken.

The armed suspect then rejoined his accomplice and discharged a round of fire before making good their escape.

An investigation has been launched into the incident. (G9)

Woman breaks car window, escapes after driver refuses to stop

P

olice have launched an investigation into an incident whereby a woman was forced to break a vehicle window to escape after the driver refused to stop at her requested destination.

Reports are that the incident occurred at about

16:30h at Tuschen New Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo, Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) on Friday afternoon.

According to Police, the 21-year-old woman reported that she was on the main road of Tuschen New

Housing Scheme, awaiting transportation when a black Juke motor vehicle driven by a male with a female seated in the front passenger seat offered her a drop. The woman said that she agreed and entered the vehicle.

Upon reaching the junction of Tuschen New Housing Scheme, she said that she requested that the driver stop in order for her to exit the vehicle but she was ignored. The driver then proceeded to turn onto the Tuschen Public Road.

The Meten-Meer-Zorg resident told Police that she became fearful, and broke the back left side window of the vehicle, which caused the driver to stop immediately. She then rushed out with her belongings. She said that the driver then sped away in a western direction.

She then proceeded to the Leonora Police Station where she reported the matter.

Investigations are ongoing. (G9)

NEWS

33

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

ExxonMobil cuts flaring by 96% …flash gas compressor now operational

Exxon Production Manager Mark Ryan

O

il giant ExxonMobil, which has for some time been plagued by issues with its flash gas compressor aboard the Liza Destiny Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel, has now brought the compressor online and has been able to cut down its flaring by 96 per cent.

This was announced

by Exxon’s Production Manager Mike Ryan during an interview with the company’s Governance and Public Affairs Advisor Janelle Persaud. Ryan further explained that there are six gas compressors operational, including the flash gas compressor, two main ones and injection gas compressor.

The Production Manager said that Exxon is currently flaring approximately 6 million cubic feet per day. Ryan went on to explain why they have not been able to reduce the flaring to pilot levels yet.

“What we found with this most recent testing

that we did, when we completed phase one and two testing, is that we’re still seeing some of that axial vibration in the third stage compressor. And as you recall, that axial vibration was causing some damage in the machine and that’s why we had to send it back to Germany.”

“What our focus is right now and it was through our extensive testing and modelling that we did during the phase one, phase two, is to find the right level of the operation such that we minimise the vibration, so that we can keep the machine running, while also minimising flaring,” Ryan said.

Ryan said that before the flash gas compressor came online, they were using or injecting 88 to 90 per cent of gas. He acknowledged that while they weren’t completely there, they have made significant improvements. He said the flaring of gas has been reduced by approximately 96 per cent.

The manager made it clear that Exxon takes its environmental responsibilities seriously. That being said, the Production Manager also reiterated his disappointment with the gas compressor’s malfunction.

“That’s very important to us. We work every day on all our parameters.

Not just on greenhouse gas emissions, but on all our areas. On discharges, making sure we’re transferring the oil from the FPSO to the tankers efficiently.

And we’ve been extreme-

ly successful on all those fronts.”

“So, it’s part of our DNA, to ensure that we protect the environment.

The numbers we see here are generally in line with what we estimate in the EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment). That being said, I’m very disappointed with the performance of the flash gas compressor,” he said.

In the latter part of January 2021, Exxon’s subsidiary, Esso Exploration & Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) had announced that it was experiencing technical problems with the seal on Liza Destiny’s flash gas compressor. The problem resulted in Exxon having to reduce its production and also conduct routine flaring.

It was subsequently revealed that Exxon had been flaring 16 million cubic feet of gas per day, an increase from the volume of flaring the company conducted last year which reportedly ranged between 12 and 15 million cubic feet. The third stage discharge silencer, a key component of the flash gas compression system for the <<<Liza Destiny>>>, was a key factor in the malfunction of the compressor.

The silencer eventually had to be upgraded.

Additionally, a redesigned third stage discharge venturi had to also be manufactured. These issues had resulted in oil production on the Liza Destiny FPSO in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana being re-

The Liza Destiny FPSO

duced to 110,000 barrels per day (bpd) at one point.

When it comes to the future, Natural Resources

Minister Vickram Bharrat has said that EEPGL will switch the manufacturer of the compressor equipment

it uses, to ensure there are no malfunctions that lead to excess flaring during future projects. (G3)

34 NEWS

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

19.3% decrease in serious crime – Benn H

ome Affairs Minister Robeson Benn has said there has been a 19.3 per cent decrease in serious crime.

This percentage represents a year-to-day comparison of statistics from January 1 to July 30, 2020, and January 1 to July 30, 2021.

According to Benn, “In spite of what you are hearing on social media, in spite of the fact that we may not have been paying attention to what was happening in relation to serious crime

in 2020… now we can focus and pay attention to issues of crime and to deal and ramp up on those issues so that we can make our country safer.”

Giving statistics, DPI quoted the Minister as saying that in 2020, there were 86 murders compared to 73 in 2021, representing a 15.1 per cent decrease. Of the 516 incidences of robbery under arms in 2021, 333 were committed in 2021 which indicates a 35 per cent decrease.

A 55.6 per cent decrease has been recorded in robbery with aggravation with 36 incidences in 2020 and 16 in 2021. Break and enter and larceny also saw a decrease of 10.7 per cent with 457 in 2020 and 408 in 2021.

As it relates to larceny from the person, there has been a notable decrease of 46.4 per cent with 69 in 2020 and 37 in 2021. There were 51 cases of robbery with violence compared to 42 in 2021, which rep-

Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn

resents a decrease by 17.6 per cent.

With 18 robberies in 2020 and 13 in 2021, there

has been a 27.8 per cent decrease in this crime. There has also been a steep decrease in burglary of 41.9 per cent with 93 incidences in 2020 and 54 in 2021.

One instance of kidnapping was recorded in 2021 and none in 2020.

However, there has been an increase in rape cases with 104 incidences in 2020 and 177 in 2021, reflecting a 70.2 per cent increase. The PPP/C Administration has committed to providing safe and secure communities.

Lindener wanted for drive-by shooting US-based Guyanese

invests millions in new local restaurant

…Heliconia Restaurant & Lounge opens on Camp Street

T

Wanted: Samorea Mitchell

Dead: Delroy McKenzie

he Police have issued a wanted bulletin for 26-year-old Samorea Mitchell of Lot 716 Phase 1 “B” Wisroc, Linden for questioning in relation to the murder committed on Delroy McKenzie, and attempted murder committed on Calvin Daly which occurred two weeks ago.

McKenzie, who hails from Roxanne Burnham Gardens, Georgetown, was riddled with bullets on July 17, 2021 around 21:50h at Sunflower Street, Wismar, Linden during a drive-by shooting.

It was reported that on July 17, both McKenzie and Daly went to Linden via public transportation and went to a popular fast-food place to make a purchase.

While at the location,

Daly said McKenzie was given directions from his female friend via telephone to join a boat at the Mackenzie shore.

On arrival at the Wismar shore, the man called the female and was given further directions, but a short while after, she called him back and told him to turn around since she would be sending a car to pick them up.

As both men walked out of Sunflower Street, they saw a silver wagon turned around and as McKenzie approached the car to open the back door, a man opened the door first and started to shoot at him.

Another male came out of the front passenger seat and opened fire too.

Daly reportedly ran for cover, and the gunman rejoined the car, which had

The torched car found at Blue Water Lake

three male occupants and headed in a southern direction towards Silver City Street.

McKenzie was shot nine times, according to the autopsy.

Sometime later, the motor car that was involved in the drive-by shooting was found torched at Blue Water Lake, Kara Kara, Linden.

Police stated that a party of Policemen was on patrol duty in the vicinity of Blue Water Lake when they

observed a fully burnt silver-grey Fielder wagon on the southern side of Blue Lake Access Road.

Police are asking anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of Mitchell, to contact the Police on telephone numbers 620-6836, 226-6978, 225-8196, 2682328, 2682298/2222, 226-7065, 226-4701, 661-5870, 911 or the nearest Police Station.

(G9)

UN urges regional countries to help stop TIP

C

aribbean countries are observing World Day against Trafficking in Persons (TIP) on Friday even as the United Nations Secretary General, António Guterres, warns that in the midst of a global pandemic, accompanied by rising inequalities and economic devastation, the voices of human trafficking survivors and victims risk being drowned out.

“But listening to their stories is more crucial than ever as the COVID-19 crisis increases fragilities and drives up desperation. As many as 124 million more people have been pushed into extreme poverty by the pandemic, leaving many millions vulnerable to trafficking,” he said in a message to mark the occasion.

A fact sheet on TIP in the

Caribbean, released by the UN with specific reference to five countries, namely, Aruba, Curaçao, Dominican Republic, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago, notes that long before the Venezuelan crisis or the pandemic, human trafficking, and smuggling were a reality in the sub-region.

It said Colombian, Dominican, and Haitian nationals, among others, have continuously been lured to Caribbean countries on false promises of high-paying jobs in tourism, construction, hospitality, domestic work, and mining.

“The identification of Venezuelan victims of trafficking (VoTs) by national institutions is estimated to be higher every year across Caribbean countries. This phenomenon is directly connected to the humanitarian crisis in Venezuela and the outflow of Venezuelan refugees and migrants (R&Ms) to the sub-region since 2017, due to the deteriorating po-

litical, human rights and socioeconomic situation in the Latin American country, further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic,” the document said.

It added that legal, economic, social, and logistical factors specific to Caribbean sub-regional countries affect the capacity to combat trafficking in persons and that Aruba, Dominican Republic, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago are bound by the United Nations Convention against Transnational Crime and Protocols and in recent years, all five countries have taken significant steps to fight smuggling and trafficking.

These have included adopting legal frameworks and establishing national institutions that identify and assist survivors, including specialised police forces and law enforcement units for investigating and prosecuting trafficking crimes using a victim-centred approach.

(CMC)

T

he Heliconia Restaurant and Lounge was officially opened on Saturday, offering the Guyanese public an elegant fine-dining atmosphere in the midst of Central Georgetown.

The simple opening featured a ribbon cutting ceremony at the restaurant’s Lot 81-82 Camp and Robb Streets (Opposite Republic Bank), Georgetown, location. The new restaurant features both local and foreign cuisines as well as a blend of drinks at the well-stocked bar.

Saturday’s opening was an all-white brunch affair with drink specials on bottles and lots of giveaways and cash prices for the limited and specially invited guests, who were entertained by live music.

Owner of the new establishment, Winnick Paton promised that Heliconia Restaurant will be the “talk of the town”, adding that he is also aiming to expand this venture not only in Guyana but beyond the local shores.

“This is the first [restaurant] of its kind… but it won’t be the last. We’re a franchise that will branch off in Guyana, US, Jamaica and the world,” he stated.

Before opening the doors to the approximately $50 million establishment, Paton expressed his gratitude to family, friends and everyone else who supported and played a role in seeing this project to fruition, including his two business partners.

While the restaurant still needs some fine-tuning

and would be fully ready in three months’ time, the owners reassured of quality service and an experience that is second to none.

Paton explained that at Heliconia Restaurant, they are all about customer service.

“Here, our customer service is our main focus. We want our customer service to be second to none in Guyana, second none in the world…

We want you guys to share and spread the world… that the experience you had here is like nowhere else,” Paton expressed.

Paton later told reporters the restaurant has already employed about a dozen staff and this is expected to increase once the establishment is fully completed. He added that in order to provide the best customer service, the staff underwent a four-day training.

According to the new restaurateur, these training exercises are continuous so as to maintain a high-class service.

“What we do with our staff, before every working day have them come in a little early and we go through various training [exercises] just as a top up of what you basically know. And then at the end of the night, we also meet again to discuss the challenges we had and how to make it better the next day,” he explained.

Paton also disclosed that they will be moving to open the US branch of the Heliconia Restaurant and Lounge in New York City within the year.

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021

35

Around the World

Turkey declares “disaster areas” Haiti Police say former Supreme Court Judge suspect in President’s killing as wildfire death toll rises

H

T

urkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has declared parts of southern Turkey ravaged by wildfires as “disaster areas”, with the death toll from the fires rising to six after two forest workers were killed.

Fires across Turkey since Wednesday have burned down forests, encroaching on villages and tourist destinations and forcing people to evacuate.

Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Bekir Pakdemirli said on Saturday that 88 of 98 fires that broke out amid strong winds and scorching heat have been brought under control.

At least five people have died in Manavgat and one died in Marmaris. Both towns are located on the Mediterranean and are tourist destinations.

Health Minister Fahrettin Koca said 400 people affected by the fires in Manavgat were discharged from hospitals and 10 were still receiving treatment. In Marmaris, 159 people were treated and one person was still undergoing treatment

A woman tries to stop an advancing wildfire in Kacarlar village near the Mediterranean coastal town of Manavgat, Antalya, Turkey, Saturday, July 31, 2021

for burns.

New fires erupted in southern Hatay province where flames jumped to populated areas but appear to have been brought under control.

Turkish media said hotel guests in parts of the Aegean town of Bodrum were told to evacuate and authorities called on private boats and yachts to assist in evacuation efforts by sea.

President Erdogan was visiting affected areas on Saturday, inspecting from a

helicopter.

Erdogan declared the regions affected by the forest fires “disaster areas” in a statement on Twitter.

Speaking from the town of Manavgat, in the south of Turkey, Erdogan said at a press conference later on Saturday that while Ankara was not looking to politicise the incident, it was also “considering the possibility of sabotage” and an investigation was under way to determine the causes of the fires.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

More countries hike climate pledges, piling pressure on major emitters

A

group of mostly smaller countries submitted new, more ambitious climate pledges to the United Nations this week, raising pressure on big emitters including China to do the same ahead of a major UN climate summit in November.

UN climate chief Patricia Espinosa said that as of Saturday the United Nations had received new pledges from 110 countries, out of the nearly 200 that signed the 2015 Paris climate accord.

A total of 15 countries - most of them small and with relatively low CO2 emissions - submitted new

pledges this week, ahead of a July 30 deadline for them to be counted in a UN report.

They included Sri Lanka, Israel, Malawi and Barbados. Malaysia, Nigeria and Namibia were among the larger countries to submit tougher climate targets this week.

With deadly heatwaves, flooding and wildfires occurring around the world, calls are growing for urgent action to cut the CO2 emissions heating the planet.

But the United Nations’ latest analysis of countries’ climate pledges said that taken together, they would still lead to global warming

far beyond the 1.5-degree limit that would avoid the worst impacts of climate change.

China - the world’s biggest emitter of CO2 - and countries including India and South Korea have not yet submitted new climate pledges. They are facing considerable international pressure to do so ahead of the UN climate summit.

The United States and European Union, the world’s second and third biggest emitters, hiked their targets in recent months, promising to slash emissions faster this decade. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Hinds defends decision to deny Canadians entry into T&T

N

ational Security Minister Fitzgerald Hinds wants people who wish to enter this country’s borders to respect the laws of Trinidad and Tobago and not try to find ways around them.

At a media briefing yesterday, Hinds commented on a recent incident where a Canadian national was denied entry because his mix of vaccines was not on the approved list in order to acquire a Travel Pass as required to fly into T&T. “We have used the law as a barrier of protection and we want people to respect that barrier and not find ways around or over

it,” said Hinds.

Canadian citizen Allan Preddie’s combination was a mix of Pfizer and Moderna.

And while he told Canadian media he was not aware that it would not be accepted in Trinidad and Tobago, Hinds said the criteria is clearly defined on both the Travel Pass website and the web page of the Ministry of National Security.

Preddie had obtained a Travel Pass but Hinds said it could be done with wrong or false information.

Hinds said in the case of Preddie, the system would have demanded information on mixed vaccines and he underscored

that only World Health Organisation-approved blends would have been approved.

The National Security Minister did admit that the situation was unfortunate, as Preddie came to this country to organise funeral arrangements for his mother.

Preddie was not charged by the TTPS and instead is back in Canada.

During the media conference, Hinds was alerted that the World Health Organisation has since approved a mix of AstraZeneca as a first dose and Moderna as a second. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

aitian Police on Friday outlined fresh accusations against a former Supreme Court Judge over her links to the assassination of President Jovenel Moise earlier this month, saying she had met with some Colombian mercenaries accused of killing him.

The assassination of Moise has plunged the Western hemisphere’s poorest nation deeper into chaos, and launched an international manhunt for mercenaries and the murder maswterminds across the Americas.

Haitian Police had earlier this week issued an arrest warrant for Wendelle CoqThelot, a former Supreme

Court Judge who was ousted with two other Judges earlier in February when Moise alleged a coup was being planned against him.

Coq-Thelot’s whereabouts are unknown and she could not be reached for comment.

Colombian mercenaries and Haitian-Americans arrested in the wake of Moise’s murder said they had met Coq-Thelot, according to Inspector General Marie Michelle Verrier, the spokesperson for the National Police of Haiti.

Police have raided CoqThelot’s main home as well as other residences in the countryside, Verrier said.

A wanted poster for Coq Wandelle has also been

launched.

Many questions remain over who was behind the assassination this month and how the killers gained access to the President’s home.

Haitian officials blamed a squad of mostly Colombian mercenaries, three of whom were killed

by Police.

A top Moise security official was arrested on suspicion of involvement on Tuesday.

Earlier in the day, Colombia called on Haiti to guarantee the legal and medical rights of 18 Colombians detained on the Caribbean Island for alleged participation in Moise’s assassination. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Thousands protest against COVID-19 health pass in France

T

housands of people protested in Paris and other French cities on Saturday against a mandatory coronavirus health pass for entry to a wide array of public venues, introduced by the Government as it battles a fourth wave of infections.

Protesters injured three Police Officers in Paris, a Police spokesperson said. Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Twitter that 19 demonstrators were arrested, including 10 in Paris.

It was the third weekend in a row that people opposed to President Emmanuel Macron’s new COVID-19 measures have taken to the streets, an unusual show of determination at a time of year when many people are focused on taking their summer break.

The number of demonstrators has grown steadily since the start of the protests, echoing the “yellow vest” movement, that started in late 2018 against fuel taxes and the cost of living.

An Interior Ministry official said 204,090 had demonstrated across

A protester holds a sign reading “No to health pass” during a demonstration called by the “yellow vest” (gilets jaunes) movement against France’s restrictions, including a compulsory health pass, to fight the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, in Paris, France, July 31, 2021

France, including 14,250 in Paris alone. This is about 40,000 more than last week.

Visitors going to museums, cinemas or swimming pools are already denied entry if they cannot produce the health pass showing they have been vaccinated against COVID-19 or have had a recent negative test.

Parliament approved a

new law this week that will make vaccinations mandatory for health workers and extend the health pass requirement to bars, restaurants, trade shows, trains and hospitals.

About 3000 Police Officers were deployed in the capital, with anti-riot officers striving to keep demonstrators on authorised routes. (Excerpt from Reuters)

US resumes fast-track deportation flights of Central American migrant families

T

he United States on Friday resumed fasttrack deportation flights for migrant families that recently arrived at the US-Mexico border, amid a sharp increase in the number of migrants at the southern border.

The Department of Homeland Security said in a statement the flights would transport Guatemalan, Honduran and Salvadoran migrant families who could not be immediately expelled

under a coronavirus-related public health policy and did not have a legal basis to stay in the country.

“We are making clear that those who do not qualify to remain in the United States will be promptly removed,” the statement said.

Migrant crossings typically taper off in the hot summer months, but arrests at the southern border rose in June to the highest level since April 2000. The tally in July is expected to be

similar or even higher, according to two border patrol officials who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

Immigration, and particularly the arrival of asylum seekers at the US southern border, has been a hot-button issue for decades.

Multiple attempts to reform US laws and create a pathway to citizenship for the millions of immigrants living in the country illegally have failed in Congress.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

36

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021

ARIES (March 21April 19)

Take an aggressive approach in order to get things done. Discipline and determination will help you reach your goal and discourage others from getting in your way.

Keep an open mind.

Search for a way to please TAURUS everyone.

Focus on self-im(April 20provement, and refrain from May 20) criticizing others. Take responsibility and own up to your mistakes. Choose peace and love over chaos.

Protect your health and GEMINI (MAY 28- well-being. Listen to what’s said, but don’t contribute your take June 20) on a no-win situation. Getting along with others will buy you time and freedom to make decisions.

CANCER It’s OK to change your mind (June 21- if something doesn’t feel right.

July 22) Don’t take a risk that can cost you financially or emotionally.

Protect your rights, assets and freedom.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Pause while you gather as much information as possible.

Avoid compromising situations with people who are trying to take advantage of you.

Stand up for your rights, but don’t start an argument.

VIRGO

Learn new skills, take courses, expand your mind and search for innovative ways to make your life better. Pay attention to detail, and update your image to demonstrate what you can accomplish.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Set aside time to socialize and catch up with interesting people. A conversation will get you thinking about something you’d like to pursue. Align yourself with someone like-minded.

(Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Dilbert

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Peanuts

You’ll find it difficult to make up your mind. Emotions will interfere with your ability to take advantage of an offer. Approach someone you respect and trust, and you’ll get what you need.

Think for yourself. Don’t SAGITTARIUS feel obligated to head in a di(Nov. 23rection because someone else Dec. 21)

does. Do your own thing.

Protect your reputation and valuables. Refuse to let anyone manipulate you.

CAPRICORN You’ll be sitting in a good po(Dec. 22sition, so don’t let anyone tell you Jan. 19) otherwise. Turn your interests

to home, family and personal improvements that will stabilize your life and secure your future.

Calvin and Hobbes

Wait your turn. If you

AQUARIUS take on something or some(Jan. 20one you aren’t familiar with, Feb. 19) you will be at a loss. Ask questions. Facts and truth matter; stick to what you know to be true.

PISCES (Feb. 20Mar. 20)

Take the plunge and jump into something that entices you. Let your uniqueness shine through and your fondness for someone be known. Take a ride down memory lane.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021

37

Hungarian Grand Prix: Max Verstappen frustrated as pressure intensifies

T

wo weeks after the event, the fall-out from the collision between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen at the British Grand Prix dominates this weekend's race in Hungary.

The two men start the grand prix two places apart, Hamilton's Mercedes on pole position and Verstappen's Red Bull third, with the Dutchman eight points ahead in the championship, and amid a bitter atmosphere of accusation and counter-accusation between their two teams.

On Thursday, Red Bull failed in their attempt to force a stiffening of Hamilton's punishment for the incident, but their submission to the stewards contained a number of inflammatory claims.

Among them, Red Bull wrote that Hamilton "knowingly did not avoid contact with Max's car" in the incident.

Red Bull deny that this is an accusation that Hamilton crashed into Verstappen on purpose, and referred BBC Sport back to team principal Christian Horner's claim in the news conference on Friday that "we didn't at any point say in our submission that it was a deliberate action".

Another part of Red Bull's submission deals with Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff's visit to the

stewards at Silverstone while they were deliberating over how to deal with the incident.

The team raise the question of whether "the stewards were persuaded to seek his advice in making the decision on account of the standing his team and his driver purport to hold with the FIA".

The stewards – who were reconvened to hear Red Bull's 'right of review' claim – took a dim view of that.

This apparent thinly veiledaccusation that they might have been influenced by Mercedes is what they were referring to in their rejection document on Thursday when they said they "noted with some concern certain allegations made in the competitor's letter".

Wolff has said he feels that Red Bull's claims about the conduct of both Hamilton and the team were "below the belt".

That is why Mercedes issued a statement on Thursday night, after the stewards had rejected Red Bull's review request, in which they referred to "a concerted attempt by the senior management of Red Bull Racing to tarnish the good name and sporting integrity of Lewis Hamilton."

"We wanted to bring a little bit of respect back to the discussion," Wolff said. "We understand that emotions can run high and it is always a matter of perspective and perception, but we felt that that line was overstepped."

Horner described Mercedes' statement as "a little antagonistic", and insisted: "At no point did we question the objectivity of the FIA." He said that Red Bull raised the question that "the [stewards'] objectivity could be prejudiced if you're influenced by a competitor going in with data prior to a decision being made".

But he said: "We were assured it had no influence on the decision-making". And he said that the hearing, together with a clarification from the FIA last

week making it clear teams risked penalties if they approached the stewards without an invite or summons, had "dealt with any of our concerns".

"We feel we had a fair hearing," Horner said. "The stewards felt that it wasn't new evidence under the confines of the regulations and so it wasn't opened into another hearing. So, we accept that.

"This competition is all about marginal gains and leaving no stone unturned. When you have an accident of that velocity and impact, then of course you're

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them this Olympics so it’s both for Martina and for Roger.

“I was focused I never lost focus and I never gave up,” she said. “I did not come here saying the Olympic Games are there just to win a medal. It was a dream for me from the beginning til the end. I don’t want this to be over.”

Saturday’s final began as a nervy battle with both players struggling to hold serve before Bencic finally edged the 42ndranked Czech to take the first set.

Vondrousova, however, was far from finished and went up a gear in the second with a double break to force the match into a decider as Bencic struggled with her opponent’s backhand slice.

Bencic took a medical timeout for a toe blister while leading 4-3 in the final set, but returned to break the Czech and serve out the victory, collapsing to the court in joy when Vondrousova sent a backhand return long on the Swiss’s second match point.

“We played a great match both of us and only one could win. But winning an Olympic medal, it’s all good. I am just so happy. I am not going to be sad,” said a beaming Vondrousova, who bettered

compatriots Jana Novotna and Petra Kvitova who won bronze medals in 1996 and 2016 respectively.

Vondrousova’s loss ends a dream Olympic run for the 22-year-old, who took down home favourite and world number two Naomi Osaka in the third round before powering into the championship match over Ukraine’s eventual bronze medallist Elina Svitolina.

(Reuters)

Beyond the question of whether he should have allowed Hamilton more room given that a substantial part of the Mercedes was alongside the Red Bull on the entry to the corner, there is the matter of Verstappen's entry speed to Copse on the first lap of the race.

This, according to GPS data available to all teams, was 1.5km/h faster with Hamilton on his inside than it had been on his fastest qualifying lap the day before. Copse is taken flat-out in qualifying – but certainly not on the first lap of the race with a full tank of 100kg of fuel, even when a driver is on an ideal line, which Verstappen was not.

Asked about this, Horner said: "I think that would be physically impossible" and "I can't believe [it] to be true based on all the analysis we have looked at prior to the hearing". The data is the data, though.

Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen came together at the British Grand Prix (BBC Sport)

Elaine Thompson-Herah takes stunning Olympic gold in women’s 100m … Fraser-Pryce takes silver, Jackson bronze, in Jamaican sweep

Swiss Bencic beats Vondrousova to win women’s singles gold

orld number 12 Belinda Bencic dug deep to overpower the Czech Republic’s Marketa Vondrousova 7-5 2-6 6-3 on Saturday and win the Tokyo Games women’s singles title, becoming the first Swiss woman to earn an Olympic tennis gold.

The 24-year-old Bencic, who prevailed in two hours and 30 minutes, can now complete a set of gold medals when she and Viktorija Golubic face Czech No. 1 seeds Barbora Krejcikova and Katerina Siniakova in the doubles final on Sunday.

Bencic is also the first Swiss to win a singles gold since Marc Rosset claimed the men’s Olympic title in 1992, and could become just the fourth woman in history to secure the title as well as victory in the doubles.

Neither of Switzerland’s greats Roger Federer nor Martina Hingis, both former world number ones, won Olympic singles gold.

“I think I accomplished it for them. They did so much in their career,” Bencic said.

“I’m not sure I will be ever be able to do what they did, but maybe I could help them to accomplish this one with giving

going to make a full investigation.

But as far as we're concerned, the chapter is now closed."

Mercedes' and Red Bull's rivals, meanwhile, are standing back and watching all this with a degree of dismay.

A number have told BBC Sport that they found Red Bull's attempts to gather "evidence" against Hamilton somewhat questionable.

And some have mocked in private Red Bull's decision to ask reserve driver Alex Albon to drive Hamilton's line in a two-year-old car using demo tyres at a test at Silverstone a couple of days after the race, and use that as an argument in their submission that Hamilton would never have made the corner at the speed he was going and the trajectory he was on.

Equally, while Horner has accused Hamilton of a "redmist moment" and allowing the pressure of the occasion to cloud his judgement, questions have been raised about Verstappen's driving, too.

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laine Thompson-Herah didn’t think she would be able to defend her Olympic title.

Thompson-Herah dealt with a nagging Achilles injury all the way through the Jamaican Olympic trials. In Tokyo, the reigning Olympic champion didn’t show any ill effects from a troublesome Achilles.

The 29-year-old ran a blistering 10.61 seconds to win the women’s 100 meters Saturday at the Tokyo Games.

Thompson-Herah celebrated a few meters before she comfortably crossed the finish line first to win her second consecutive Olympic gold medal in the 100 meters. She earned her first 100-meter gold medal, running a 10.71 at Rio de Janeiro Olympics.

Thompson-Herah’s new

personal-record time set an Olympic record, surpassing Florence Griffith-Joyner’s time of 10.62 set in 1988. GriffithJoyner still holds the world record of 10.49, which she also set that year. Griffith-Joyner is the only woman in history to run 100 meters faster than Thompson-Herah.

The 29-year-old’s personal best time of 10.61 also set a Jamaican national record.

“God is amazing I must say.

I believe in myself and I believe in God. The team around me is very strong. I didn’t expect to run this fast even though I felt great in between the rounds,” Thompson-Herah said. “There were nerves, but I said you can do this, and you have been there before, just execute.”

Thompson-Herah beat fellow Jamaican teammates Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce (10.74)

and Shericka Jackson (10.76).

It was just the second time in Olympic history the Jamaicans swept the medal stand in the women’s 100 meters. They also accomplished the feat in 2008.

Fraser-Pryce was favored to win the race, having taken gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and 2012 London Olympics.

She was seeking to join fellow Jamaican Usain Bolt as the only sprinters in history to win three Olympic gold medals in the 100 meters.

Instead, Thompson-Herah joins Fraser-Pryce, Gail Devers and Wyomia Tyus as the only women in Olympic history to win back-to-back Olympic titles in the 100 meters.

Teahna Daniels, the lone American in the race, finished seventh in 11.02. (USA Today)

38 National senior team annihilated by national U-23 squad

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021

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he Cliff Anderson Sports Hall came alive on July 30, 2021 as the Guyana Volleyball Federation concluded its second leg of the best of five exhibition games between the senior national team and the national U-23 team.

Once again, the national Senior team was annihilated by the national U-23 squad by three sets to one. The first set of the game was a thrilling one which saw the national U-23 team defeating the seniors 2520. The seniors exhibited their dominance in the second to defeat the U-23 team in the second set 25-16. The U-23 then claimed the third set 2522. The fourth and final set of the game was the most thrilling one; in this set the senior team blew an 8-point lead they had

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over the U-23 team.

With clutch plays and brilliant coaching, the U-23 team fought hard to come back and win the set and the game. The top scorers of the game for the National u-23 team were Tyrone Farley with 12 points, Kristoff Shepperd with 10 points and Ronaldo Bobb with 8 points. Meanwhile the top scorers on the senior national team were Quacy Matheson with 20 points,

Trevon McRae with 16 points and Juan Valasques with 14 points.

Meanwhile, the female exhibition game comprised a mixture of females from different clubs and affiliations placed into Team Black (uniform colours) and Team White. Team Black came out victorious defeating their counterparts 2-0. This was the first official indoor volleyball game held for females since

the pandemic began.

The top scorers for Team Black were Kim Bagot-Chan with 10 points, Cassie Junor with 7 points and Alianna Charles with 6 points. On the other side, the top scorers for Team White were Leanna Davis with 11 points, Mercedes Matheson with 5 points and Thea Myers with 4 points.

The third leg of the bestin-five-exhibition games will be played on August 20, 2021

as the national U-23 team try to close out the series and the national senior team try to keep their hopes of claiming the series alive.

The Volleyball Federation thanked the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the National Sports Commission for their continued support and said it looked forward to fostering relations for volleyball development in all parts of Guyana.

Canada Softball Big-Bash set for September 3rd, 4th and 5th

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he 2021 Canada Softball Big-Bash is slated to be held September 3-5 at various venues across the Greater Toronto Area with the champion team set to cart off a trophy and $10,000.

President of Softball Cricket Canada, Rajesh Willie is positive that the three-day 15-over event would be very successful especially with the participation of eight teams, which are expected to be selected on a draft-basis.

The competition was inaugurated last year amidst the global pandemic and only six teams featured with Lara XI emerging victorious.

Again, Willie is brimming with confidence that softball fans will be entertained from the

first legitimate delivery.

He highlighted that each team must play two under-21 players and an over-50 player as his objective is to see youngsters getting an opportunity to develop their cricketing skills at a huge softball showpiece while a

veteran member can share his knowledge about the game.

“In keeping with the objectives of the tournament to be inclusive and also to develop the future of softball cricket in Canada, hence the 2021 tournament will require each team to have one over-

50 and two under-21 players who must play a minimum of 1 game in the preliminary rounds,” Willie declared.

“Having said that, I [am] very confident that we can run off another fantastic tournament where a large number of top softball players will get a chance to showcase their talent,” he related.

It is also informed that every game will have a minimum of five overs roundarm using the whiteball.

According to Willie, this mixture of bowling will most likely bring greater excitement to the competition but at

the same time there should be competitive cricket. In addition to that, fans from elsewhere can view the final on Facebook live with ballby-ball commentary. Willie stated that the last day for registration is August 10th and the drafting to be done on the 13th. Persons who are interested of being a sponsor or player can contact: Willlie 647408-4660, Roger 647-4883462 or Zanil 647-979-2819 for further information.

Notably, each team can only have a maximum of two overseas players.

Azam Khan taken to hospital after blow to GT&T and Everest Cricket Club ink deal for new squash court head during training … ruled out of the second and third T20I

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TT and the Everest Cricket Club on Friday inked a deal to rebuild the squash court at the Club. Orson Ferguson, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of GT&T Business Solutions, and Colonel Bhageshwar Murli, Executive Member of ECC, signed the contract which will see the 30-year-old communications giant in Guyana providing the funding for the Club to completely make over its squash court.

The new upgraded court will provide better lighting, back glass and a viewing lounge making the players’ and spectators’ experiences of international standard.

CLASSIFIED ADS

P Speaking at the simple GT&T Business Solutions COO Orson Ferguson signing ceremony, Colonel (left) and Everest Cricket Club Executive Member Murli thanked GTT for Colonel Bhageshwar Murli (centre) sign the contract. coming on board with Looking on is Club President Manzoor Nadir Representing the GTT, one of the oldest sport clubs (Everest Cricket Club was Ferguson said it was an honour established in 1914) in the for the company to partner with country. He said that this squash “this prestigious and premier court will provide players with club”< which had been producing conditions that are comparable outstanding sport personalities. to what they will encounter when He and his company have been they have to play competitions impressed by the efforts and locally and internationally. He energy being put into upgrading, added that it was clubs policy expanding and modernising the to have the best of facilities and facilities of the club. He looked such will provide for the best forward to seeing the Everest talents to emerge. The court will Squash Court producing national also add to the national stock of players while others can enjoy excellent facilities available for safe and healthy competition. the sport of squash.

akistan batter Azam Khan was taken to hospital after suffering a blow to the head during training on Friday in Guyana, and has been ruled out of the second and third T20I against West Indies. The 22-year old, who made his debut earlier this month against England, is learnt to have been struck by a fast bowler.

According to a PCB release, a neurosurgeon has recommended an observation period of 24 hours following which he will be reassessed on Monday. His availability for the fourth and final T20I will depend on the reassessment.

ESPNcricinfo has learnt that Khan did not lose consciousness and was wearing a helmet at the time he was hit.

Pakistan and West Indies took part in a rained-out first T20I in Barbados on Wednesday, with only nine overs possible.

Since being called up to the national side, Khan hasn’t yet had the chance to nail down a fiercelycontested middle-order slot ahead of the T20 World Cup squad announcement, with this series the last T20I engagement before Pakistan name their squad. He came in to bat in the last over on debut, and got out cheaply in the game that followed, only to be dropped for the decider against England.

The T20Is will be followed by two Tests starting August 12 and 20, and both will be played in Kingston.

(ESPNcricinfo)

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39

Pooran’s powerful effort in vain as Babar, Hafeez star in Pakistan win the innings, but couldn't shift gears.

Hetmyer, in an attempt to keep up with the required run rate, attempted to slog Mohammad Wasim Jr but could only hear the death rattle. To make matters worse, Lewis had to retire hurt due to a cramp. The West Indies batting continued to be inconsistent with 47 dot balls in the innings.

With 74 runs required from only five overs, Pooran

By Brandon Corlette

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espite Vice Captain Nicholas Pooran's unbeaten 62 from 33 balls, the West Indies failed to overhaul Pakistan's target of 158 on a slow wicket and slipped to a seven-run loss in the second T20 International at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence.

Fully vaccinated fans at 40 per cent capacity, including

Jason Holder claimed four wickets

dent the home team further.

Pooran did smash a six and a four off the last two balls of the game, but it wasn't enough to cross the finish line.

Earlier, class acts Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam dropped anchor and laid the platform for Pakistan's total with a stand of 67 for the second wicket. On a sluggish Providence wicket, in which the curator spoke about the par-score being 170180, things looked difficult, especially for West Indies.

Babar looked to play back to essay the occasional cut and pull of Hayden Walsh. The duo

also pinched singles and twos to take Pakistan to a position of strength. However, against the run of play, Rizwan was run out on the back of an excellent throw from Lewis.

With Pakistan at 134 for 2, rain played spoilsport for a while. And that proved to be the decisive moment of Pakistan's innings as the visitors lost six wickets for only 23 runs after the break. Jason Holder finished with excellent figures of 4 for 26 while Bravo had 2-24. The third match of the series is set for Sunday, August 1 from 11:00h local time.

SCOREBOARD Nicholas Pooran slammed a careerbest knock

Babar Azam eased to a fifty (Photos: AFP/Getty Images)

President Dr Irfaan Ali and other Government officials, enjoyed the high-quality cricket on show with the class of Babar Azam, who stroked 51 and the power of Pooran.

During West Indies' chase, West Indies top order failed to find momentum in the powerplay, scoring 31-2. Lewis and Guyanese boy Shimron Hetmyer tried to resurrect

Archibald out of Tokyo Games after thrilling run

decided to up the tempo. He clubbed Wasim for two sixes and a boundary in the 16th over, and followed it up with a couple of boundaries off pacer Shaheen Afridi. He also had his share of the rub of the green as he eked out an inside edge off Afridi that scurried away to the fence.

In the penultimate over, Pooran proved his pyrotechnics by clubbing Hasan Ali for a six down the ground. The six also brought up his fifty in just 28 balls. West Indies required 20 in the final over, but Afridi dislodged Kieron Pollard, who made 13 from 14 balls to

Pakistan Innings Sharjeel Khan c Hosein b Holder 2 Mohammad Rizwan † run out (Lewis/Walsh) 46 Babar Azam (c) c †Pooran b Holder 51 Fakhar Zaman c Walsh b Bravo 15 Mohammad Hafeez c Walsh b Bravo 6 Hasan Ali c Bravo b Holder 0 Sohaib Maqsood c Shepherd b Holder 5 Shadab Khan run out (Holder/Fletcher) 5 Mohammad Wasim not out 1 Extras (b 1, lb 2, nb 1, w 4) 8 TOTAL (20 Ov, RR: 7.85) 157/8 Did not bat: Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Qadir Fall of wickets: 1-46 (Sharjeel Khan, 4.4 ov), 2-113 (Mohammad Rizwan, 14.2 ov), 3-134 (Babar Azam, 16.1 ov), 4-145 (Mohammad Hafeez, 17.5 ov), 5-145 (Fakhar Zaman, 17.6 ov), 6-150 (Hasan Ali, 18.4 ov), 7-150 (Sohaib Maqsood, 18.5 ov), 8-157 (Shadab Khan, 19.6 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Akeal Hosein 4-0-30-0 Jason Holder 4-0-26-4 Chris Gayle 1-0-11-0

Dwayne Bravo Romario Shepherd Hayden Walsh

4-0-24-2 3-0-38-0 4-0-25-0

WEST INDIES INNINGS (TARGET: 158 RUNS FROM 20 OVERS) Andre Fletcher b Mohammad Hafeez 0 Evin Lewis retired hurt 35 Chris Gayle b Hasan Ali 16 Shimron Hetmyer b Mohammad Wasim 17 Nicholas Pooran † not out 62 Kieron Pollard (c) c Mohammad Wasim b Shaheen Shah Afridi 13 Jason Holder not out 0 Extras (lb 3, w 4) 7 TOTAL (20 Ov, RR: 7.50) 150/4 Did not bat: Dwayne Bravo, Romario Shepherd, Hayden Walsh, Akeal Hosein Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Andre Fletcher, 0.2 ov), 2-31 (Chris Gayle, 5.6 ov), 3-70 (Shimron Hetmyer, 11.5 ov), 3-76* (Evin Lewis, retired hurt), 4-140 (Kieron Pollard, 19.2 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Mohammad Hafeez 4-1-6-1 Shaheen Shah Afridi 4-0-44-1 Hasan Ali 4-0-32-1 Shadab Khan 4-0-22-0 Usman Qadir 1-0-11-0 Mohammad Wasim 3-0-32-1

Four Guyanese wing out to Barbados for WI U-19 preparation D

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Guyana’s Emanuel Archibald

uyana’s Emanuel Archibald wowed late on Friday night with a stellar 10.30s run to move on to Round 1 of the Men’s 100m sprint event.

However, Archibald could not get past the next Round, as he met up with some of the current fastest men in the world, in what is considered one of the Olympics’ marquee events.

Archibald running out of lane 9 in Heat 2 of the preliminary Round, had a reaction time of 0.152s coming out of the block. About 60 meters out, the Guyanese sprinter picked up the pace to cross the line second in a time of 10.30s.

He came in behind Oman’s Barakat Al Harthi, who clocked 10.27s for the win.

Archibald’s time ensured that he would move on to Round 1, meeting the likes of USA’s Trayvon Bromell and Nigeria’s Enoch Adegoke.

The Round 1 race got off on Saturday morning, around 6.45am local time, with the Guyanese sprinter lined up in lane 2.

Archibald, who hails from Amelia’s Ward, Linden, had a better reaction time to his first race at 0.148, however, the

Guyanese was unable to pick up the pace in ending sections of the race.

Archibald went on to clock 10.41s, finishing 9th.

While Archibald is now out of contention in the Tokyo 2020 Games, the last Guyanese athlete to take the track will be Aliyah Abrams on Monday August 2. Her event will be the women’s 400m race, with the Heats scheduled to begin at 8.45pm local time.

espite the silence from the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) about the players selection and departure, four Guyanese youth players departed Guyanese shores on Saturday. The four Guyanese who departed are Matthew Nandu, Mavindra Dindyal, Isai Thorne and Rampertab Ramnauth.

These players are expected to spend one week in Barbados for preparation, then fly to Antigua followed

by England on August 22, with the ICC Under-19 cricket World Cup set for early 2022 in the Caribbean.

Nandu, who plays his cricket in Canada and for Demerara when he returns to Guyana, is a left-handed top-order batsman who bowls off-spin.

Dindyal is a classy batsman who has dominated youth cricket while playing for Demerara and other youth teams regionally and for the West Indies Under16s. Thorne is a fast-bowler from Rose Hall Canje who played for West Indies

Matthew Nandu, Isai Thorne, Rampertab Ramnauth and Mavindra Dindyal

Under-16s along with Port Mournant’s Ramnauth, who is an elegant left-handed batsman.

The International Cricket Council had earlier announced the rescheduled qualification pathway to the ICC Under 19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2022 in the West Indies, where 34 teams will compete for five World Cup spots.

The 14th edition of the event which takes place in the West Indies in early 2022

will involve Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, West Indies and Zimbabwe by virtue of their top 11 finish in the 2020 edition.

The remaining five spots will be determined by regional qualification.

Qualification for the 2022 edition of the U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup was delayed by a year due to COVID-19.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1 , 2021

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

guyanatimesgy.com

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he National Stadium, Providence welcomed its fans after approximately 2 years without International Cricket. While the Coronavirus pandemic is still prevalent, Guyana’s fans were ‘masked up’, fully vaccinated and ready to watch West Indies take on Pakistan.

Here are a few shots of Saturday’s happening during the second T20I of the Osaka Batteries Carient Cup Series.

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