Guyana Times - Sunday March 7, 2021

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Jemima Holmes expertly navigates a “man’s field”of sport reporting as Guyana Times’ lone female sports journalist Nationwide coverage coverage from from the the best best news news team team in in Guyana Guyana Nationwide Issue No. 4580 guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON BEACON OF OF TRUTH TRUTH THE

SUNDAY, MARCH 7, 2021

Prominent fuel distributor owes State $3.2B in accumulated taxes See story on page 2

…GRA seeks AG’s help amid widespread abuse of fuel exemptions

PRICE

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WHAT'S INSIDE: APNU/AFC election petition

Article 162 P5 empowered GECOM to carry out recount AG tells court …in written submissions on lone surviving petition

GuySuCo’s $30B bond

APNU/AFC used bond as ruse to borrow – Ashni Singh

Cop under close arrest after girlfriend dies in accident P5

Page 3

…PPP now forced to intervene to save de facto loan 57-year-old man is Guyana’s 201st COVID-19 death P26 …43 new cases recorded

Craig man P28 chopped, beaten by bandits during home invasion

New wave of thinking needed to grasp incoming opportunities – Ali

Govt mulls P27 maternal and children’s hospital

...as sod torned for new 101-room hotel

Page 22

Page 23

Thieves raid 3 P24 Linden churches

Significant Young Professional homes to be taken up by women – President …review needed to reduce challenges women face to access loans

Sand barge slams into boat in Corentyne River Page 24

…4 passengers forced to swim to shore

Berbice teacher’s home goes up P5 in flames

2 NEWS Prominent fuel distributor owes State $3.2B in accumulated taxes SUNDAY, MARCH 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

…GRA seeks AG’s help amid widespread abuse of fuel exemptions

I

n the wake of rampant abuse of the fuel import tax exemption system and a prominent distributor owing the State over $600 million in taxes, the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has sought the intervention of the Attorney General’s chambers This came to light in correspondence between GRA Commissioner General Godfrey Statia and Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh, in which Statia brought the

Minister up to speed with the fuel import racket uncovered before last year’s change in Government.

GRA has a system in which large-scale fuel companies would act as distributors, importing fuel and then receiving tax exemptions for fuel it sold to various businesses that were eligible for partial or full exemption - businesses that included foreign investors.

But according to Statia

in the letter, checks by GRA’s Law Enforcement and Investigation Division (LEID) showed that these distributors were only delivering part of the fuel to these companies, even though the distributors were clearing the fuel at the duty-free rate using the companies’ tax exemption letters. It is speculated that this fuel would then be sold to others, where it would fetch a duty paid price.

Statia revealed that this was occurring as late as 2020, whereby fuel was imported for oil companies but the companies did not receive much of it. As a consequence, the distributor owed over $2.6 billion worth of taxes for the non-delivered fuel.

This sum is currently under review and awaiting a final decision. It is understood that this abuse of the system, with regards to oil imported for oil compa-

Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh

GRA CommissionerGeneral Godfrey Statia

nies, dates back as early as 2015.

The Commissioner General further revealed that for the period of January 1 to September 30, 2020, one prominent distributor imported close to 35 million litres of oil on behalf of a company in the extractive industry, using that company’s tax exemption letter.

However, the records submitted by both companies revealed that only 20.6 million litres of oil was ever delivered. According to Statia, based on the reconciliation it was found that the distributor owed $606.9 million on the 13.8 million litres of oil it did not deliver for the intended purpose.

It was further explained than when GRA wrote to the company, it accepted liability but claimed that it had previously supplied more than 24 million litres of duty paid fuel at a duty-free price to the particular extractive company, without exemption letters.

Checks by GRA could only account for 20.3 million litres.

“GRA should find a way to prosecute the company, and recover duties and interest applicable based on the abuses. I am therefore of the view that the Attorney General’s opinion should be enlisted in considering the way forward,” Statia advised in the letter, which was copied in emails to President Dr Irfaan Ali, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo and Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC.

Loopholes

Further, the tax boss recommended to Dr Singh

that a previously implemented system of reconciling fuel imports be implemented, in order to tighten loopholes that allowed these distributors to abuse the system.

According to Statia, a system had previously been implemented in which each payment would be cleared with an attached computation showing imports, exemptions, versus acquittals and the distributor would submit a monthly schedule specifying which companies received the fuel.

But Statia revealed that attempts to implement this system were stymied by the non-cooperation of his own custom officers and the distributors themselves.

“Suffice to say that notwithstanding the agreement reached regarding the aforementioned process, the oil importers expressed reservations and gave every reason as to why this new requirement should not be thrusted upon them (for obvious reasons),” Statia explained.

“There was also pushback by Customs officers who for one reason or another did not see the need or understood the rationality for the change, or resisted the changes for their own gain. This led to a piecemeal approach and the eventual return to the old system. Hence the reason for the recommendation for its imposition.”

He also explained that GRA officers will be reviewing the back years, from 2015, to reconcile all fuel cleared using exemption letters and also verifying that these letters were not used by more than one distributor or that there was no collusion between them and the companies on whose behalf the fuel was imported. (G3)

NEWS

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SUNDAY, MARCH 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GuySuCo’s $30B bond

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Demerara – Sunday, March 7 – 00:30h – 02:00h and 11:00h – 12:30h and Monday, March 8 – 01:00h – 02:30h and 12:30h – 14:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Berbice – Sunday, March 7 – 11:35h – 13:05h and Monday, March 8 – 12:50h – 14:20h.

APNU/AFC used bond as ruse to borrow – Ashni Singh …PPP now forced to intervene to save de facto loan

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY There will be light rain and sunny intervals during the day. There will be partly cloudy skies at night.

Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to East North-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.91 metres.

High Tide: 11:10h reaching a maximum height of 2.19 metres.

Low Tide: 17:32h reaching a minimum height of 1.01 metre.

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COMMODITIES Indicators Crude Oil Rough Rice London Sugar

US$ $69.36/barrel $238.10/ton $463.50/ton

Live Spot Gold Bid/Ask Low/High Change

Change % +3.78 -0.95 +0.32

USD Per Ounce $1700.10 $1687.00 0.00

$1701.10 $1708.80 0.00%

Finance Minister wwDr Ashni Singh

T

he controversial $30 billion bond that the former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) saddled the State with the responsibility of repaying, posed problems for the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Government early in their term when they had to step in to make payments.

This was confirmed by Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh, in an exclusive interview with this publication in which he was asked for the status of the bond that was borrowed with the stated objective of funding capital projects in the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo).

According to Dr Singh, the bond was no more than a ruse by the former Government, to borrow monies and keep it off the balance sheet, foisting it instead onto the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited/Special Purpose Unit (NICIL/SPU), which borrowed the money in 2018.

“There was massive borrowing to finance what was described as a $30 billion bond for GuySuCo, supported by an ironclad Government guarantee. Meaning the Government is saying we will pay. Knowing full well that GuySuCo and NICIL will not have the capacity to pay. So, it was basically Government borrowing, but disguised as borrowing by NICIL,” he said.

“They knew full well the Government would have to repay that loan. But to shift it off the budget, they shifted it off the Government’s balance sheet and disguised it to evade the necessity of adjusting the debt ceiling. So, you have accumulation of the (central bank) overdraft,” Dr Singh explained.

The Finance Minister explained that when the bond was issued, it came with a Government guarantee that it would back the bond payments should NICIL be unable to make any payments.

And this is just what the PPP Government had to do last year.

“They issued a Central Government guarantee to say that the Government is guaranteeing that in the event that NICIL or GuySuCo cannot meet its obligations, that the Government will step into their shoes.”

“There has even been one instance when the (PPP) Government has had to step in and pay. When we came into Government, we discovered a situation where a

Government guarantee had been issued and we had to step into the shoes of NICIL/ GuySuCo to meet one payment,” the Finance Minister said, further explaining that the bond is currently being serviced and payments have since stabilised.

Back in 2018, NICIL, through Republic Bank, went out on a limb to arrange a $30 billion syndicated bond at a rate of 4.75 per cent interest and a five-year repayment period for GuySuCo. According to the agreement between NICIL and Hand-in-Hand Trust Corporation as the trustee, the first tranche payment of $16.5 billion from the bond was to be used for a long-term project and capital financing for GuySuCo. Specifically, the money was to be used to acquire two co-generation plants, upgrade the existing factories to pro-

duce plantation white sugar, build storage and packing facilities, and help pay for two years of general operational costs.

However, a significant part of the bond was never used for the purposes it was secured. The previous APNU/ AFC Government itself had admitted that between July 2018 to February 2020, $9.7 billion was disbursed from the bond to GuySuCo to fund its operational expenditure – much of which was outside the terms of the bond.

In November of last year, Housing Minister Collin Croal had brought to the attention of the National Assembly, a letter from now ousted NICIL/Special Purpose Unit Head Colvin Heath-London to former Finance Minister Winston Jordan regarding the bond.

In the letter, HeathLondon had spoken of money

that the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) owed NICIL for land which had been transferred for housing development back in 2019. This money, according to Heath-London, was needed to service the $30 billion bond. (G3)

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SUNDAY, MARCH 7, 2021

Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544 223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

A year of living dangerously: COVID & PNC

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arch 11 will be one year after “ground zero” for COVID-19 in Guyana - the day we had our first victim of the pandemic. Not unexpectedly, it involved someone from abroad, New York to be exact.

She was Ratna Baboolall, a 52-year-old Guyanese mother resident in New York for the last ten years, who only arrived four days earlier with her family to visit relatives.

The authorities rushed to implement protocols that had been hurriedly put in place: conducting contact tracing, which uncovered eight relatives, including her 59-yearold husband and two sons, had been infected. They were isolated at a facility at Diamond, but not without some confusion because of the novelty of the situation.

Caribbean Airlines also placed into quarantine the crew that brought in Ratna, and conducted contact tracing on other passengers. Guyana was now launched into a regime that had spread inexorably across the world since the first case was identified in Wuhan, China on Nov 11, 2019.

The entire world became topsy-turvy as developed countries like Italy, UK and the US - which were supposed to have the most advanced medical facilities and personnel reeled under the onslaught of the virus, and their infection and death rates careened out of control. Since viral infections were nothing new, it was known that vaccines would have to be created and manufactured to inoculate populations. The race was on. In the meantime, China demonstrated that if basic precautions - such as lockdowns of infected areas, wearing masks, washing hands, keeping a two-metre distance between persons etc - were observed in tandem with meticulous contact tracing, the infection and death rates would be controlled.

In Guyana, the COVID pandemic hit at the very worst time: in the midst of the blatant attempt by the PNC to rig the March 2 elections. The Government established a National COVID-19 Task Force (NCTF) under the Chairmanship of PM Moses Nagamootoo, but he was quickly removed from operational control as a National Task Force Secretariat was launched on April 25 under the leadership of Joseph Harmon, who was designated CEO. At that time, some 70 persons had been diagnosed as infected and 8 had died, but he used the NCTF to retard the elections recount. The PNC also entered into an incestuous relationship with a campaign contributor to acquire and equip the Ocean View Hotel as a COVID-19 hospital at a cost of almost $2 billion.

By mid-December 2020, the first COVID-19 vaccine had been given approval by several European countries, including the UK, and by the end of the month, one the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine - became the first to receive emergency validation from WHO. Since then, there have been at least a dozen more vaccines created, and they have been rolled out in vaccination programmes in most developed countries. There was a new phenomenon discerned - “COVID nationalism” - wherein the developed countries somersaulted on their long-preached “concern” for the poorer countries, and not only made policy decisions to hoard vaccines produced in their countries, but used their superior financial position to forward-purchase many times the amount needed to inoculate their entire populations.

At this point, there have been 115,653,459 confirmed cases of COVID-19 across the world, including 2,571,823 deaths reported to WHO. A total of 249,160,837 vaccine doses has been administered. In Guyana, we have 8729 cases, 200 deaths, and 3000 AstraZeneca vaccine first doses administered. These were generously donated by Barbados. China has donated 20,000 of its Sinopharm vaccine, and 80,000 AstraZeneca vaccines have been received from India.

While it may appear that there is light at the end of the COVID-19 tunnel, mutant variants - as is standard with all viruses - have appeared in several countries, like the UK, South Africa and, most troubling, Brazil. The latter variant has shown itself to be resistant to most vaccines, and evidently can reinfect persons previously infected.

The authorities would have to work diligently to seal our porous border with Brazil.

President Dr Irfaan Ali laying a wreath on the grave of Leonora ‘Heroine’ Kowsilla (Alice) on her 57th death anniversary on Saturday.

Kowsilla was murdered on March 6, 1964, when she was run over by a tractor while standing her ground in protest. She and several other women were with striking sugar workers who were protesting against being denied work and for the recognition of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) (Office of the President photo)

APNU/AFC’s blatant lies on development in Region 10 Dear Editor, Undoubtedly, the APNU/ AFC Opposition party’s poor attempts to discredit the PPP/C Government’s efforts that are geared towards the development of Region 10 do not go unnoticed. It has been noted that publications were made by the APNU+AFC Coalition in which it was stated that the PPP/C is “discriminating against” and “stifling” Linden and Region 10.

These lies are only intended to create division and undermine the Government’s commitment to the development of Guyana.

Here are the facts.

The APNU/AFC did very little for Region 10 during the period 2015-2020. In fact, it was the PPP/C Government that transformed the region up to 2015, and is committed to continuously building on such transformation to give the region an economic boost.

Looking back at the development works undertaken by the PPP/C, it is clear that the Government is focused on the well-being of all residents within the region; unlike the APNU+AFC, who neglected countless areas.

In terms of health, the PPP/C Administration has improved healthcare delivery across Region 10 by investing billions into building and rehabilitating hospitals and health centres over the years. Notable projects include the $1.8 billion state-ofthe-art Mackenzie Hospital; a new hospital at Ituni, and a

complete rehabilitation of the Kwakwani Hospital. In addition, the Government had established several health huts across the region so as to provide residents with better access to healthcare.

In terms of education, the PPP/C has focused on Region 10 over the years in order to boost education delivery. In fact, the Government built the Linden Foundation Secondary School along with schools in Wisroc, One Mile, and Kwakwani. Primary schools were also built under the PPP/C Administration in areas like Watooka, Mackenzie, Ituni, Coomacka, 47 and 58 Miles, to name a few. Rehabilitation works were also done on the Mackenzie High School as well as the Wisburg Multilateral Secondary School under the PPP/C Administration.

In terms of housing and water, the PPP/C has invested into massive housing drives in Linden over the years. Those drives saw the allocation of over 2,500 house lots to residents. At the same time, a fire station was constructed at Mackenzie, a courthouse at Wismar, and police outposts at Amelia’s Ward and Wisroc, to better serve residents. Two new water treatment plants were also constructed in Amelia’s Ward and Wisroc, amounting to in excess of $1.7 billion.

The PPP/C, as a Government, also spent over

$22 billion on electricity subsidies in Linden-Ituni, and approximately $800 million in Kwakwani during its tenure up to 2015. Solar electrification projects were also undertaken in Region 10 to provide electricity to Amerindian villages. At the same time, over $200 million was injected into agricultural projects at West Watooka and Moblissa over the years.

Notably, other projects include the Women of Worth (WOW) project that saw single parents being supported.

In fact, over 44 loans were issued to assist in this regard from 2013 to 2015 under the PPP/C Government.

The PPP/C also injected billions into the bauxite industry in Region 10 to keep it operational over the years. In fact, up until the investment of LINMINE, the Government was injecting around US$5 million annually to keep the bauxite industry afloat, so that jobs would be secured. Even with the privatisation of LINMINE and the loss of jobs, the PPP/C paid out over $2.5 billion to affected workers and introduced the LEAP programme that saw over $700 million in loans being issued to persons for works across the region. Some of these works included the rehabilitation of the Mackenzie Car Park, improvement to the Mackenzie waterfront, and the building of the Benjamin Center to honour the first mayor of Linden. In addition,

the Government had also built the first ever call center in the region, which saw employment opportunities being created for over 100 residents.

However, it was the APNU/AFC Coalition that decided to cease operations and displace these workers.

The PPP/C Government led by President Irfaan Ali is committed to the development of Region 10. In fact, during the campaign period leading up to the 2020 elections, the President outlined his vision of making the region a hub for economic activities, given the prospects associated with the oil and gas sector. Further emphasis has also been placed on building the Linden-toLethem road, which would commence this year. Such a PPP/C-led project would see significant growth opportunities for the region as well as residents alike.

In this regard, the PPP/C rejects the efforts made by the APNU+AFC Coalition to discredit the Government’s commitment to the development of Region 10, as well as to create further division within the Guyanese populace.

The PPP/C will continue to serve in the best interest of the people, by developing every region so that Guyana can become an economically strong country.

Regards, Alvin Hamilton

National award for democracy is most welcome Dear Editor, It was on the 2nd March, 2020 when elections were held and nine parties contested. The count was deemed to be free, fair and credible, but the process of tabulating the votes was widely seen to have been

fraudulent.

The drama went on for five months, I called it the Guy 2020 movie, one of the best I have seen, and it ended on 2nd August, 2020 when the PPP’s Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali was sworn in as the 9th Executive President

of the Republic of Guyana, with Brigadier Mark Phillips as Prime Minister.

In the words of a former Prime Minister of Jamaica: “I have never seen a more transparent attempt to alter the results of an election.”

Hats off to all the for-

eign governments, observer groups and local democracy group. The national award for democracy announced by His Excellency is most welcome.

Yours cooperatively, Parmanand Ram

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, MARCH 7, 2021

News

Cop under close arrest after girlfriend dies in accident A

Police Constable stationed at the Suddie Police Station, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), is now under close arrest following an accident that occurred along the Hibernia Public Road, Essequibo Coast, on Saturday, that has claimed the life of his girlfriend.

Dead is 26-year-old Simona Williams of Good Hope, Essequibo Coast.

Reports are that the accident occurred at about 13:20h.

According to reports, the Constable was driving motor car PMM 5509, when an alleged argument ensued between him and his girlfriend.

Guyana Times understands that the Police Constable went to the home of his girlfriend at about 11:30h, picked her up and they both proceeded to Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast.

During their journey, Williams was seated in the front passenger seat of the motor car.

Police said the couple spent some time in Anna Regina conducting business, and as they were returning to Good Hope, an argument developed while they were in the vicinity of Suddie, Essequibo Coast.

The Constable claimed that his girlfriend began accusing him of infidelity, which continued along their jour-

APNU/AFC election petition

Article 162 empowered GECOM to carry out recount – AG tells court …in written submissions on lone surviving petition

A

The cars that were involved in the accident

ney until they had reached Hibernia Public Road.

He is alleging that Williams held on to the steering wheel and pulled it to the left, and he, in turn, pulled it back to the right. He told investigators that during that time, he lost control of the vehicle, causing it to collide with motor car PPP 4196 which was parked on the east-

ern parapet of the Hibernia Public Road.

As a result, Williams received injuries and was taken out of the car by public-spirited citizens and escorted to the Suddie Public Hospital where she was pronounced dead.

The body is presently at the Suddie Public Hospital’s Mortuary awaiting post-mortem. (G9)

Berbice teacher’s home goes up in flames

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nvestigators are probing the origin of a fire that engulfed the home of a Stanleytown, New Amsterdam, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) teacher on Saturday.

Reports are that the residence of 44-year-old Dexter Lucious, a seaman, and 28-year-old Mehelia McAlmont, a teacher, went up in flames at about 01:00h.

At the time of the fire, McAlmont was making preparations for her birthday celebrations on Saturday. Reports are that the fire was seen inside of the lower flat of the building which is occupied by the teacher.

According to McAlmont, family members were decorating a tent in front of the yard.

She said that she connected a drop cord to get electricity from an outlet in the bedroom.

However, flames were initially seen coming from the sitting room.

She said that as they were setting the decorations the light went off and she sent her nephew inside to investigate. He then shouted for her to see what was happening.

The woman recalled that as she rushed into the house she saw fire in the living room and immediately raised an alarm.

Soon after neighbours formed a bucket brigade.

According to the teacher, she called 912.

“I explained to them what was the incident and I was

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Mehelia McAlmont

and a unit from the department in New Amsterdam arrived about 45 minutes later.

During that time neighbours concentrated their attention on the house next door.

McAlmont said at the time of the fire, nothing was on the stove.

Neighbours said that there were sparks coming from an electrical wire in front of the house before the firefighters arrived at the scene.

“But by then everything

The fire completely destroyed the inside of the lower flat of this house

asked three times where is my location and in detail, I did explain… I described that it is on the Backdam half and if they come in they will see it. However, it is the first peach house. I was quite calm and detailed and I was being asked this question over and over again.”

She said she eventually disconnected that call and called the fire station direct

was gone. They tried to contain the fire,” McAlmont added.

According to her, she was only able to save a few pieces of clothing but could not estimate her loses.

Meanwhile, while the fighters were able to contain the fire to the lower flat of the building, much of the floor to the upper flat received extensive damage. (G4)

s the day for oral submissions in election petition 88 inches closer, Attorney General and Senior Counsel Anil Nandlall’s written submissions present arguments in defence of Order 60 of 2020, which created the recount that A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) is now trying to discredit.

Election petition 88, filed by Claudette Thorne and Heston Bostwick, seeks to have the recount and the results that came from it, invalidated. In their petition, one of their arguments is that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) had no power to establish the recount exercise carried out at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre in a drama-filled, month-long exercise.

They contend that Section 22 of the Elections Laws (Amendment) Act, under which Order 60 was made, is unconstitutional.

But according to the AG in his submissions, GECOM draws wide powers under Article 162 (1) of the Constitution of Guyana, the supreme law of the country, to make such decisions.

Article 162 of the Constitution says that GECOM shall “issue such instructions and take such action as appear to it necessary or expedient to ensure impartiality, fairness and compliance with the provisions of this Constitution or of any Act of Parliament on the part of persons exercising powers or performing duties connected with or relating to the matters aforesaid.”

“Accordingly, it is submitted that pursuant to Article 162 (1), GECOM had the power to issue Order 60 of 2020 which was gazetted and dated 4 May 2020 and was amended on 29 May 2020. The recount order was issued in order to resolve irregularities, anomalies and discrepancies before declaring the results of the elections which are required to be by ROPA and the Constitution,” Nandlall stated.

In his submission, he cited case law from a number of sources. He also noted the history of Article 162 and how Section 22 of the Election Laws Amendment Act was promulgated because framers of the Constitution thought that Article 162 was inadequate and needed to be boosted to handle situations like the 1997 election controversy.

“Therefore, while Section 22 can stand by itself, it ought not to be functionally divorced from Article 162 (1,b) of the Constitution.

It is to add further ‘teeth’ to Article 162,” Nandlall’s submission explained.

The AG noted that when one examines the election petition, the applicants have failed to establish any foundation on which the March 2 General and Regional Elections can be invalidated.

“In conclusion, it is respectfully submitted that learned counsel have failed to discharge the heavy burden of rebutting the constitutionality of Section 22 of the Election Laws Amendment Act 2000, neither has it been established that Order 60 was in any manner whatsoever ultra vires or unlawful,” Nandlall said in his submissions.

Election petition 88 comes up for hearing before acting Chief Justice Roxane George on April 7, 2021.

Another petition, number 99 of 2020, which was filed by applicants Brenan Nurse and Monica Thomas, was previously tossed out, although APNU/AFC has since appealed.

On January 18, 2021, Justice George dismissed petition 99 owing to

Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC

non-compliance with effecting service as prescribed under Section 8 of the National Assembly (Validity of Elections) Act and Rule 9 of the National Assembly (Validity of Elections) Rules. The acting Chief Justice found that the petition was not properly served on former President David Granger, the second-named respondent.

Justice George, in arriving at her decision, among other things, relied on the decision in Eusi Kwayana et al v the Chief Elections Officer et al No 205 of 1986, and noted that given the guidance outlined in this case, the procedures for the filing of an election petition must be strictly complied with, otherwise it can result in the dismissal of the petition. (G3)

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SUNDAY, MARCH 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Recognising…

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…Cheddi’s contributions esterday was Cheddi Jagan’s death anniversary, and while your Eyewitness couldn’t make it to Babu Jaan, he’d like to pay homage to the great man. He was going to say, “great soul”, but being a through and through Marxist, he doubts that Cheddi would have any truck with such idealistic notions! He followed Marx in insisting that “religion is the opium of the masses”. And he rejected opium!

Cheddi’s greatest contribution to Guyana was his commitment to improving the lot of the poor. While one can say this was “natural”, because he’d come out of the sugar plantations where most people eked out a subsistence existence, it wasn’t, really. He’d returned in 1943 as a qualified dentist with a “white wife”, and could’ve easily slipped into the incestuous and pretentious Coloured stratified middle-class of Georgetown, as so many professionals had done before. But in the US, he’d detected the wind of change that was coming - especially after the 1939 Moyne Commission had promised an opening up of the franchise when the War was over.

Politics before him had been dominated by middleclass politicians who rationally targeted their peers, since only they qualified for the franchise. In the 1947 elections - under the expanded franchise - Cheddi won a seat in the Legislature, and really shook that joint up! The old order of the Governor and his chosen cronies - both appointed by him and elected - had never been spoken to so frankly! The killing at Enmore of five sugar workers who were protesting an arbitrary detrimental change in their work rules made Cheddi into a prophet for the sugar workers. Wasn’t this exactly what he’d been saying all along?

Cheddi wore his Marxist ideology on his sleeve, and had received must criticism for this. It was seen as his Achilles heel, which eventually brought him down politically; but he really believed in “dialectical materialism” as a law as much as the law of gravity. So, he had no doubt that his position would prove to be right in the end - even after he was thrown out in 1953 and again in 1964 by the West.

While it might seem egoistic, he really believed that he’d placed “The West on Trial”!

And after 28 years in the wilderness, he DID return to office! And so, had the last laugh on his bete noir Burnham, whose grandiose plans had all collapsed ignominiously after all his Machiavellian scheming and plotting. They do say “all smart fly…”!

While he didn’t survive his term, he did show that he wasn’t as doctrinaire as the West had feared; he governed pragmatically. It gave him great satisfaction to hear Kennedy’s right hand man Schlesinger apologise for deposing him.

An Order of Democracy? …trauma Even without International Women’s Day tomorrow, your Eyewitness - and every Guyanese, he hopes - has been sensitised to the appalling level of violence being inflicted on women daily in our country. As such, he has listened carefully to the claim of PNC MP Sarabo-Halley that she was assaulted by PPP MP Kwame McKoy. The latter has vehemently and categorically denied her claim.

He is pleased that the Police have taken the matter in hand. They immediately reviewed the CCTV footage, but, unfortunately, it didn’t cover the spot where the incident was alleged to have occurred. They did, however, identify two MPs who were eyewitnesses, and have forwarded the case for legal advice.

What is troubling, however, is the insistence by the PNC to have McKoy banned from Parliament during the Budget Debate, and their raucous behaviour when the Speaker baulked. As Parliamentarians, who actually CREATE the laws of the country, they should appreciate that everyone, including MPs, have a right to due process!

They cannot be allowed to lynch McKoy!! …BS How ridiculous can Harmon get? He wants to have talks with “President Ali” to deal with matters confronting the nation, but refuses to recognise the Ali Government!

Well, wouldn’t President Ali’s “presumed illegitimate” Government be committing “illegitimate” acts?

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

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The influence of Dr Jagan

G

rowing up in Guyana in the 1950s, more so on a sugar estate - Uitvlugt - it was impossible to escape the presence of Dr Cheddi Jagan. My earliest recollection of him was during the 1957 elections campaign during the August holidays. He stood on the “train line” entrance to the sugar factory and, pointing to the immaculate and imposing houses in the Senior Staff Compound, promised the cane cutters in front of him that they would live there after his government “kicked them out”. Most of them - like my father had moved out of the logies in 1952-53 into new “high houses” in housing schemes. While they had received loans from the “Sugar Industry Labour Welfare Fund”, they credited Jagan’s political agitation over the last decade for their change of fortunes. They had moved up, and were amenable to continuing that trend.

Living in the racially mixed village of Uitvlugt, Ravi Dev and attending primary school located in the “African Section” of Cashbah, the racial divisions were starting to manifest themselves in the crowds attending the meetings of the PPP(Jagan) and PPP(Burnham). After the PPP(Jagan) had won, I remember consoling my best friend Roy “Sugah” Rawlings that, “Abee win dis time, but next time ayuh guh win”. Even children were seeing “abee and ayuh”.

By the 1961 elections, the divisions had hardened, followed by the 1963 “sit ins” at my school and the 1964 riots. Cashbah became ethnically cleansed – as did the surrounding Indiandominated villages of Zeeburg and De Willem. I remember both Dr Jagan and Forbes Burnham holding meetings in front of the Community Centre to their now racially split constituencies. But what was more memorable was my older, teenaged brother and other PYO youths tying donkeys at the same spot where Balram Singh Rai came campaigning for his Justice Party (JP). The PPP had dubbed it the “Jackass Party” that would “split the vote”. We were never to reconnect to our African friends, even though we still “lived” in the same village; there were now “schools” in each section of the village.

Jagan, of course, was to remain in the political wilderness for the next 28 years, and most of my friends would become members of the PYO, with some passing through the PPP’s Accrabe College to be drilled on Marxist “dialectics”. Raised by my Nana and Nanie, who were supporters of Jang Bahadur Singh and were more culturally oriented, I went into mandir activism during those years. During the rigged Dec 1968 elections, Jagan did campaign in front of the Community Centre to enthusiastic supporters, but Burnham’s meeting was in the centre of Cashbah, where an Independence Arch had been constructed. The rigging of the elections by Burnham and the PNC left bitter scars on youths like me, who could see no way out because of the PNC buttressing the army and Police with their supporters. My friend Narine, the Pandit’s son, whose ambition was to join the army - we called him “soldier boy” would never be given the opportunity to serve.

In 1969, Jagan transformed the PPP into an orthodox Marxist-Leninist party, further alienating me. I became acquainted with Walter Rodney’s position in 1970 after Stokely Carmichael’s visit and his talk at Queen’s College, attended by sixth formers, including from the Indian Educational Trust College that I attended. Jagan and the PPP ideologically rejected mobilisation along cultural markers - as well as Carmichael’s particular position that Indian-Guyanese must struggle separately, and some were oppressing AfricanGuyanese. Objecting to the latter position, some of us walked out. Sometime later, a group of us formed a nascent group, “Organisation for the Protection of Indian Culture” (OPIC), but were opposed by PYO friends who held Jagan’s line. I was delegated to discuss the idea with Moses Bhagwan, who had left the PPP and formed the “Indian Progressive and Revolutionary Association (IPRA). He listened carefully but demurred, saying that he didn’t accept that Indians were oppressed culturally, merely politically. In this he did not disagree with Jagan.

Leaving Guyana in 1972 for studies in the US, I missed the 1973 rigged elections, and being away until 1979, could only follow political developments long distance and from new arrivals from “home”. Brooklyn College was not exactly a hotbed of Caribbean political activism. Most of the heavily Jewish student body was more consumed by accelerating Nixon’s withdrawal from Vietnam and following Bob Dylan’s 1974 tour. (To be continued)

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My journey in becoming a journalist was an accident, but the decision grew to become one of the best I’ve ever made

By Rupa Seenaraine

B

eing a science student at St Joseph High School; the idea was to continue in that field, for it was something I wanted to pursue from a young age. But the inkling to join the media profession would soon manifest after a brief internship stint at the Department of Public Information four years ago.

The exposure to writing, presenting the news and general works of the newsroom would soon pique my interest and thereafter, I knew it was my calling.

Of course, this realisation came with the understanding that I needed to kickstart this chapter.

I had considered many potential entities which I could’ve joined but Times Media Group seemed like the best opportunity, providing exposure to both print and broadcast journalism through Guyana Times and the Evening News. A few months later in January 2018, I started my first day at the company – a shy 17-year-old that was eager to absorb every piece of advice possible.

Starting in the profes-

sion, there are some facets of the job that can only be imparted through experience.

There exists no manual or

handbook that one can use to establish themselves as a seasoned writer. This is one of the first things I would discover and being placed in an environment with veterans in the field enabled my skills to develop shortly.

My journey thus far has been somewhat of a rollercoaster. Less than one year in the media, I witnessed the historic No-Confidence Motion in the National Assembly – an episode that would play out for long winding months. Mounting court cases and emergency press conferences later, I had thought the storm

would be over.

I was given a second wakeup call when the protracted 2020 elections would stretch on for five months – as the media remained on the frontlines to uncover what was unfolding, staking out for weeks to ensure

nity to travel, meet new people and hear the life stories of hundreds of people. Through interactions from various cross-sections, I have gained greater perspective beyond measure and confidence which was once latent. Moreover, the

that the public was kept appraised. The memory still lingers of dodging protesters and chasing politicians to complete the storyline. It is the most challenging period I have witnessed throughout my spell in the profession.

With this experience now over, the challenges faced in covering stories also have psychological effects. The constant glimpses of people losing loved ones, conversations with victims and seeing people in vulnerable situations can leave an indelible impact.

Working during the coronavirus pandemic has also presented some setbacks in ensuring that safety is paramount while delivering the news.

Being in the newsroom in this era has been exciting as well as challenging.

While there is the advent of remarkable technology that makes it easier, I believe journalists combat the plethora of inaccurate news which exists – predominantly driven by social media usage. Sometimes we brave the weather and all other forces just to capture a superlative angle.

The work of the newsroom has always appeared quite routine from the outside. It takes a great deal of patience, perseverance and commitment to remain relevant and keep deadlines in check. There are early mornings, late nights, impromptu assignments and hours of typing. However, I prefer these thrills over a slow news day.

Nevertheless, it also comes with larger than life, euphoric moments; rewarding me with the opportu-

nightmare of having a desk job is tucked far away.

There is the question of which article is my best piece. I’ve found immense interest in covering different beats from local government, education, health and even meddled with politics. Nevertheless, the most superior ones seem to come from features which highlight the common man and real-life struggles of Guyanese. One of the most impactful articles was raising the issue that children of sugar workers were working to afford schooling after their parents were made redundant at the Wales sugar estate.

Then there’s feature writing, where I have greater freedom to express my creativity and focus on people that identify the bigger picture in areas of sustainability, human and animal rights, or simply those that are pioneering different avenues to achieve success. From a vegan chef that used the lockdown to create a business to a young man that used his production to raise awareness on climate change, to the savannah fires which threaten eco-tourism.

Exposure in this environment also provides an extraordinary appreciation for the Guyanese culture, providing a front-row seat to experience the explosion of diversity during celebrations and holidays.

Within the next five years, I plan to stay in the profession if the external forces fail to prove otherwise. There is always something new to learn, another new adventure and the ambits never cease.

FEATURE

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By Lakhram Bhagirat

W

orking in the media is chaotic to put it lightly. The thing about the media is that it thrives on the uncertainty in our society. The unpredictability of human behaviour and nature mainly contribute to the chaotic nature of the work of a journalist.

Today you can have a light day with very little happening and that can change in the split of a second.

Just last year, the unpredictability of human behaviour caused us to see an elections process, which is usually no longer than 2 weeks, being dragged out for five months. That meant that for five months, media workers were caught up in the whirlwind trying to get the relevant information out to their subscribers.

However, the feeling of keeping a nation accurately informed is also one that compensates for the hard work that journalists do.

It is what has been driving Guyana Times’ Linden Correspondent Utamu Belle for over a decade now.

Belle, a native of the mining town, has been employed with Guyana Times as a correspondent since July of 2012 and she has primary responsibility for covering all events happening in and around Administrative Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice).

She is her own boss most of the time and works away from the main newsroom which means that she has to be the go-getter.

Apart from being an excellent journalist, Belle is also a mother and for her, one of her major challenges is managing the unpredictability of media work and caring for her family.

“Working as a correspondent is quite different from working in the actual newsroom. For one, you have to be quite self-disciplined because you’re basically working on your own time and you have to try to be self-organised. For me, it’s juggling between my kids and work and really trying to achieve balance. Being a journalist, sometimes you have to put in the extra effort because stories happen at any time.

Working away from the office environment means you have to be self-motivated,” she said.

Belle was not initially interested in a media career and had her sights set on a medical profession. However, fate would have it that she would grow to dislike the sciences and love English. She was an expert short story writer as a student and her

teachers would use her pieces as guidance for teaching her classmates.

They also encouraged her to think about a career in writing and it was from there that the idea of becoming a journalist was birthed.

“It was then that I made an informed decision that I wanted to be a journalist – so I can tell others’ stories while doing what love. I felt it would be a win-win situation.”

She started out in the media 11 years ago working in television production.

Sometime after she was encouraged to apply to freelance with Guyana Times and wanting to be well rounded, she did. She has worked from freelancing to being a full-time staff with the publication.

The journey, though, has not been a smooth one.

Sometimes the fact that she works away from the office setting and is responsible for a vast geographical location makes it even more challenging.

“As with any profession, there are challenges, but I’ve never allowed challenges to interfere with my grind.

Writing for print media is different from television, so I’m happy to have gained that new experience...Linden is what many might consider ‘a small town’. That being said, there are certain advantages while there are disadvantages in working in such an environment. But as a reporter/journalist you have to get your stories out regardless,” she noted.

As a correspondent, you’re a reporter and camera person in one so you find that when you’re out in the fields you have to switch between roles in an effort to capture the story to send to your editors. There are also certain challenges that many people in the media face that we hardly get to hear or talk about. For example, how covering traumatic events for example can have effects on your mental health.

When asked about what is it like being a woman in the media, Belle had this to say “This might sound cliche, but it’s challenging. I think being a woman in any profession has its fair share of challenges. However, I believe that as women we are so resilient that we rise above so many challenges and are always setting the bar higher. When I first got into the media, my daughter who is now 11 years old was just a baby at the time. I remember working late nights and barely making it home before she retired to bed. My son was in primary school at the time. I understand too

that it comes with the territory. Working in the media sometimes means working late nights, or beyond the call of duty, multitasking and the like. Over the years I would’ve learned so much so I’d like to think that I’m much better at managing my time and lifestyle now than I was back then.”

Belle, over the years, has written thousands of stories that have impacted the lives of people and for her, that brings her the greatest satisfaction. The simple things, she said, are really what matters to her.

“I have quite a few (mem-

orable pieces) but I think the most memorable one I can think of recently was the story I would’ve written about the Linden family who were stuck in Cuba following their baby’s successful heart surgery. I would’ve kept in contact with the family throughout their journey and it was quite heartwarming when they contacted me upon their return to Guyana to say ‘thank you’. The family had informed me that my articles had assisted them in getting the relevant assistance they needed. It’s really the little things. To know that you’re able to assist in

making a difference in people’s lives.”

Coming from a long line of businesspeople, Belle is also hoping she can make her foray into the world of business in the near future.

“As a correspondent, you have an important and unique role to play as a point person for the region. As media workers in general, we should always strive to uphold journalistic ethics and stand by the established principles,” she advised.

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SUNDAY, MARCH 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Jemima Holmes expertly

navigates a “man’s field” of sport reporting as Guyana Times’ lone female sports journalist

By Lakhram Bhagirat

T

he world of sport journalism is, without a doubt, a heavily male-dominated field. It remains that way for many reasons but over the years there have been many women breaking into the field and cementing their seat at the table as equals.

However, many are still taken by surprise whenever they see a female journalist covering sporting assignments.

This has been the experience of Guyana Times’ Sport Journalist Jemima Holmes over the years.

For the Bishops’ High School alumni, she had great admiration for journalists but never thought about entering the profession until she was pushed by a close friend to apply at Guyana Times. The friend, a former journalist now residing abroad, was leaving his substantive post as a “hard news” reporter and pushed her to apply.

She applied and was appointed in January of 2018 and ever since she has been blazing the trail and breaking the

barriers. Her first post with Guyana Times was as a hard news (current affairs) journalist.

She was attached to the main newsroom and given the relevant training to function in her new capacity.

Shortly after assuming her role as a reporter, Holmes was transferred from the main newsroom to the Sport Department to broaden her skills.

“Hard news was definitely a rough patch for me, mainly because I’m a creative writer first. Writing serious, straightforward stories was a bit difficult for me, especially when politics was involved. When I moved to sport, I felt like I had more room to be creative with my stories. Like for games, I could write subjectively and it was definitely relieving.

It (sport reporting) was just a spot I was placed in for a couple weeks initially and fell in love with it,” the young woman said.

For Holmes, being a part of the media wipes away the fairytale that she imagined it to be. She said that there are lots of exciting moments, especially in sport, but the job takes a lot of commitment and application. On the positive side, she has watched her writing and thinking get better over the years and that’s something she remains grateful for.

“Sport requires a lot of late nights. At first, I didn’t attend assignments after a certain time and I realised that I was missing half of the action. So the late nights (sometimes early morning) are a big sacrifice, but worth it. Another challenge is being surrounded by men can be a little intimidating and there aren’t really any females around on assignments that I can relate to. The situation taught me to hold my own, especially when the guys get into trading jokes,” Holmes said.

When asked about some of the best moments she has had over the years, this is what she said: “One of the best moments for me was when the Guyana Amazon Warriors won their

11th straight game in 2019 and it was a local game. Just seeing the type of patriotism, happiness and racial unity a simple cricket game brought in that moment is something that I’ll never be able to forget.

Another great moment was the Golden Jaguars beating Belize 2-1 in 2019 to qualify for the CONCACAF Gold Cup for the first time. Like the cricket game, it really has a sense of unity amongst spectators and it was equally a monumental achievement for Guyanese football.”

Over the years, Holmes has written hundreds of stories so when asked about her favourite piece, she was rightfully

“It’s like women in construction: everybody is surprised to see

you mixing cement, even if you’re

doing it well” – Jemima Holmes flustered.

Her Caribbean Premier League (CPL) pieces hold a special place in her catalogue of best pieces but her current favourite one is the Valentine’s Day special piece written about the love story of local cricket sensation Shimron Hetmyer and his other half, Nirvani.

“The story wasn’t too lengthy or anything but just being able to talk to Shimron about a part of his life that he’s usually tight-lipped about was really cool.”

Holmes hopes to continue building herself and further cementing her place as one of the foremost sport journalists in Guyana.

“It’s tough most days because people (not only the ones I work with) tend to think that because I’m female my abilities are limited. Once I got accustomed to the guys, they really made the job easier but it still comes with its challenges, even female athletes sometimes don’t expect to see a female sport reporter. It’s like women in construction, everybody is surprised to see you mixing cement, even if you’re doing it well…I plan on doing more creative writing, acting and maybe even voice acting again.”

FEATURE

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By Lakhram Bhagirat

D

evina Samaroo is without a doubt a household name when it comes to news reporting. Whether it is in front of the cameras of the Evening News on Channel 28 or behind the pen for Guyana Times, the multitalented young woman has been achieving great feats.

She has cemented her place among the most seasoned journalists in the land with her knack for keeping the nation accurately informed.

Samaroo now sits in the Editor’s chair at the Evening News – a role she never anticipated – and is moulding a new breed of journalists in the broadcast arena.

The St Stanislaus College alumni had no idea what she wanted to do in life after school. So one day she came across an internship vacancy at a local television station which was trying to establish a news team. The little exposure there sparked an interest in the field of journalism and she decided to apply to the more well-known agencies like Stabroek News, National Communications Network (NCN), and Guyana Times.

She was called in for an interview with Guyana Times and the rest is history.

“Guyana Times called me in for an interview – one which I thought I flopped because, it was perhaps my third job interview ever, and, in retrospect, I clearly was not prepared to answer certain questions they had asked. To my surprise, the company decided to take a chance on me – a young girl, fresh out of high school and with hardly any experience.

“Some six years later, here I am – still in the field of journalism – a pretty notable feat considering the strenuous and demanding nature of the job, and the fact that, throughout my time in the media, I have witnessed countless people come and go. And to be honest, many times I have asked myself, why am I not looking for a job with less working hours or one that isn’t this stressful. And, I don’t think I ever really figured out why,” she

said.

For Samaroo, her time in the media has been an incredible journey, from the vast learning experiences and the numerous opportunities to meet new people, many of whom played a great part in shaping the person she is today. It is her belief that one of the greatest things in life is being able to meet new people and learning different perspectives on issues and life in general – it is how you can grow and develop as a person.

“I remember one of my first admirers in the media.

He was one of the first persons I befriended in the media. I remember admiring his pace of work and his ability to critically think and ask questions at press conferences and I had set out to emulate that behaviour.

“I also observed how media veteran Denis Chabrol would quickly and accurately put together stories from an event, even while it was still ongoing and again, I too, tried to develop such skills. My editors throughout the years, Nigel Williams, Michael Younge, Tusika Martin, Fareeza Haniff, and Neil Marks; I have learned so much from them, not just career-wise,” Samaroo noted.

Being in the media is not as glamorous as many people think. It demands long hours, hard work, and complete dedication. It is something that Samaroo realised over time. As a young reporter, she was completely mesmerised by the field of work and just wanted to do more and learn as much as she possibly could have in the shortest time.

In her early days, she would clock in very early and work late into the night almost every day. This, as one would expect, resulted in a burnout. She realised that she needed to find the right balance between work, family and leisure. She found it hard to find that balance but now she is in a place where there is some semblance of normalcy.

Like every career field, there are going to be challenges. When asked about what were some challenges she would have experienced, Samaroo said “There

are many other challenges, from a day-to-day or case-bycase basis which are perhaps more administrative or on a micro-level. For example, trying all day to get an official for a story and not being able to, and then your story just has to be shelved, or worse, published as is.

One of the main challenges was being a woman in the media. Having contacts and rapport with people in high offices is no doubt beneficial to media workers. It allows faster access to them for information and sometimes, you get inside scoops and so on. Many persons who hold these offices are men and I

have had many encounters where I experienced some form of sexual harassment from them. And in talking with my male colleagues in the media, they have never had those troubles in establishing working relationships with these senior officials.

I recall one time where I had approached a parliamentarian on the corridors of the Parliament Building to ask a question, and the honourable member, instead of answering the question, made a remark about wanting us to “go somewhere and do we thing and nobody have to know” and then I can get all the information I want. But I could

not have been fazed by that remark, I just had to ignore it and move on – as I did in several other encounters of a similar nature. As I got older, more mature, more informed, and bolder, I developed the ability basically, to tell these senior officials off, diplomatically, whenever I find they are crossing the line. There are other challenges, though, too many to list.”

Samaroo has written countless pieces across all “beats”. For her, it is hard to pinpoint a particularly memorable piece she has written.

“Perhaps each piece is memorable in its own way.

Writing about and covering

politics has led to a greater appreciation and understanding of the management of a country and it is an experience/opportunity that I will always cherish. I have had many fun moments in being able to travel the country and meet new people. And then, I have had some really heartbreaking, soul-crushing moments when covering stories such as fatal accidents, murders, fires and the 2020 elections.”

For now, she aims to take better care of her mental health and make sure the balance between work and leisure remains ever-present.

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HEALTH TIPS

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FEATURE

SUNDAY, MARCH 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

HEADACHES

CAUSES

Dr. Tariq Jagnarine Family Medicine, Endocrinology/ Diabetes

H

EADACHES are a common health problem — most people experience them at some time. Frequent or severe headaches can affect a person’s quality of life. Knowing how to recognize the cause of a headache can help a person take appropriate action.

A headache can affect any part of the head, and pain may be present in one or several locations.

Headaches can cause various types of pain, and classifying the pain can help doctors reach a diagnosis.

Doctors also categorize headaches based on whether an underlying health condition is responsible for the pain.

Based on this classification, a headache may be primary or secondary as suggested by the International Headache Society.

PRIMARY HEADACHES

A primary headache is not a symptom of an underlying illness. Instead, these headaches result from problems involving the structures of the head and neck.

A primary headache may be due to over activity of: • brain

Specific areas of the

• Blood vessels • Muscles • Nerves • Brain chemicals Common types of primary headaches include cluster, migraines and tension headaches.

Also, headaches can result from using medication for pain too often. In this case, a person has a medication overuse headache or rebound headache, and this is another type of primary headache.

SECONDARY HEADACHES

These are symptoms of underlying medical conditions. The cause of a secondary headache may be: • Pregnancy • Systemic conditions, such as an infection • Hypothyroidism • Giant cell arteritis • A stroke • A brain tumor Secondary headaches can result from serious health issues. It is important to seek

medical advice if any headache displays the following: • Severe, sudden or disruptive • Persistent • Gradually worsening or change in pattern • Does not improve with medication • Occurs alongside other symptoms, such as confusion, a fever, sensory changes, or stiffness in the neck • Headaches that first develop after age 50 • Head pain that increases with coughing or movement • Changes in personality or mental function • Headaches that are accompanied by a painful red eye • Headaches that are accompanied by pain and tenderness near the temples • Headaches after a blow to the head • Headaches that prevent normal daily activities • Headaches in pa-

tients with cancer or impaired immune systems Factors that lead to headaches may be: • Emotional, such as stress, depression, or anxiety • Medical, such as migraine or high blood pressure • Physical, such as an injury • E n v i r o n m e n t a l , such as the weather

SYMPTOMS

The characteristics of a headache and the effects on daily life can vary. A headache may: • Affect one or both sides of the head • Radiate from a central point • Involve sharp, throbbing, or dull pain • Have a vise-like quality • Come on gradually or suddenly • Last from under an hour to several days The features of the pain

depend, to some extent, on the type of headache.

COMMON TYPES OF HEADACHE

• Tension-type headache This is a common form of primary headache. The pain usually arises gradually, in the middle of the day. A person may feel: • A tight band around their head • A constant, dull ache on both sides of the head • Pain spreading to or from the neck Tension-type headaches may be: Episodic: These attacks usually last for a few hours, though they can last for several days.

Chronic: This involves tension-type headaches occurring on 15 or more days per month for at least 3 months.

CONTINUED ON MONDAY, MARCH 8, 2021 EDITION

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FEATURE

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SKIN AILMENTS – CONTINUED

W

e have belaboured the discussion on Scabies and Demodectic Mange over the past few weeks. Yet there are at least two other types of mange that regularly affect dogs and cats, but to a much lesser degree. I think that these other two mitecaused lesions deserve some mention. They are “Walking Dandruff” and “Chiggers”.

Q. What is “Walking Dandruff”?

A. It is a skin problem in cats and dogs (and rabbits) caused by a specific mite. Scientifically, the ailment is called “Cheyletiella Mange” or “Cheyletiellosis”.

Q. Is this disease very contagious?

A. Yes. And it is not specific to one host. This means that the mite can easily be transferred among dogs, cats and rabbits.

Q. Can humans get this mite-caused disease from dogs/cats/rabbits?

A. Yes. Even if the pet is not exhibiting any symptoms.

Q. What are the symptoms?

A. 1) Dead scales (as in human dandruff) can be seen on the face, neck and back of the animal. In cats, there is a massive amount of dry scaly material looking like human dandruff.

2) Mild to intense scratching. Cats tend to groom their skins excessively and continuously (more than usual).

3) Tiny boils (pustules/ papules) sometimes emerge on the neck and back of the animal. The infected area becomes red and inflamed.

4) Actually, on the emerging bald (hairless) patches of the skin and on the dead scales (dandruff), one can often, actually sometimes, see the moving mite, especially with a magnifying glass; after all, it is a relatively big red mite. And that is why this particular skin ailment is called “Walking Dandruff”. Your vet, via easily administered methodologies, would quickly make the diagnosis.

N.B: Vets often notice skin lesions on the pet’s owner. This observation suggests that the human has been contaminated by the cheyletiella mange mite. The caregiver exhibits lesions from constantly scratching his/her skin.

Q. Are young animals (puppies and kittens) more susceptible to this ailment?

A. Yes, for sure. But adult dogs and cats do actually exhibit this condition.

N.B: Over the many decades of practice, I have

come to the conclusion that, in this mite-caused “Walking Dandruff” infection, this particular mite precipitates an allergic reaction. This hypersensitivity, I think, occurs also with animals having Sarcoptic Mange (Scabies) and Demodectic Mange. For these reasons, your vet might introduce anti-allergy medication as part of the curative intervention. does Q. How one treat “Walking Dandruff”?

A. Since this skin disease occurs in puppies/kittens (young dogs and cats), one has to be extremely careful in administering the same medication used for adult dogs/cats. Whereas your vet might use chemicals like “Triatox”, “Revolution”, “Ivermectin”, “Milbemycin”, Organophosphates, etc. on adult dogs weighing over 50 pounds, I would be reluctant to introduce or advise the usage of such chemical therapy on small, young puppies and kittens. Also, one would have to get the dosage absolutely correct. This is difficult enough in an animal clinic, where all the precautions and antidotes are available. At home, it would be taking a big risk. In the “old” days, we used Lime Sulphur with good results.

Any pharmacist can concoct this solution, but let your vet tell you how to use this medication.

Please note the following: 1. Take into consideration that cats groom/lick themselves constantly, and can therefore ingest toxic substances which have been placed on the sick animal’s skin.

2. Further, the pet owner would be well advised to sanitise the environment (indoors and outdoors), preferably with professional help.

3. In addition, if there is any sand in which your pets love to revel, such practice must not be allowed.

Get rid of the sand heap, or fence it away from your pets.

4. Please realise that the objective of your/ the vet’s intervention is to totally and thoroughly eradicate all the mites from the animal and surrounding area. animal 5. Finally, shelters, reputable breeding institutions, and households with many animals in a rel-

atively confined area are often infested with mites.

Consequently, it is advisable to have the animals (being adopted or purchased) fully treated against skin parasites before the caregivers take them home. In fact, even if only one animal is showing the symptoms of any mange caused by mites, all the felines/canines in the household should be treated.

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SUNDAY, MARCH 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

New wave of thinking needed to grasp incoming opportunities – Ali

N

ew and innovative thinking will be an advantageous tool for the Private Sector, in grasping the windfall of opportunities that will reach Guyana as it stands on a developmental pathway.

This was the position shared by President Irfaan Ali during the sod-turning ceremony for Aiden Boutique Hotel by Best Western Group, which is being constructed in the heart of Georgetown at Regent and Oronoque Streets.

“For us to truly realise the opportunities that lie ahead, we have to do two things: understand that we can’t do it alone and understand that we can only do it by coming together. The size and nature of the opportunities itself dictate this…We have to break down barriers within businesses themselves and this calls for a new wave of thinking in the Private Sector in making use of the opportunity that will come along,” was the advice given by the Head of State to investors and the local Private Sector.

It was highlighted that

Government is working on building capacity and ensuring that Guyana benefits from all aspects of the oil sector and even traditional sectors. For this, stakeholders need to know how to capitalise on these openings.

“One of the things we’re working on is to bring together different consortiums ensure that 100 per cent of the forward and backward linkage of the oil and gas sector comes here, whether it’s tourism services, health services, hospitality services.

Whatever it is, we have to build the capacity and we have to start now.”

He added, “We have to transition to create the transformation that we want. The transformation is not only the physical transformation. It’s the human transformation.

How do we transform our way of thinking? How do we transform our way of action? How do we transform the way in which we celebrate our country? How do we transform the way we do business?”

He said this type of transformational thinking is seen with the new Aiden Hotel, op-

timising the potential with its design. Additionally, new standards will be required and will necessitate investments in human resources, research and development.

“It is the proactive nature of this group in researching and understanding what is the best product for this site that allowed them to go to the Aiden Brand. The Aiden Brand is a very simple brand. For us, we can define what it means here,” Ali acknowledged.

The US$15 million hotel is being developed by local company Arimu Investments Incorporated and constructed

by Build Smart Construction and Supplies Incorporated.

The completed Aiden Hotel will span nine floors of a 74,000 square feet modern building. The vision is to have 101 executive rooms, an executive bar and lounge, executive conference rooms, private dining rooms, a state-of-theart gym, bar and restaurant.

The hotel will be the 12th Aiden Hotel worldwide and the first for the Caribbean and South America.

Director Geraldo Alphonso has indicated,

“This project is expected to be completed within 18 months starting [Saturday]. This project will provide jobs for as much as 150 Guyanese workers throughout its construction phase and a total of no less than 50 whilst operational. It was high on our company’s construction agenda to ensure that we utilised every inch of the Guyanese workforce.”

Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest), Dr Peter Ramsaroop said these investments all point to the modernisation of the known industries for the future.

“Guyana’s development is on a trajectory of growth but at a rapid pace…The amount of investors that will hit our shores will be tremendous and in that vision of our President to see a one Guyana and a sense of pride back in our country where we feel part of it, to see local content take the first step in all the hotel discussion, I’m proud to be here to see our local Private Sector has stepped up,” Ramsaroop detailed.

Wellington Park Mangrove Restoration Project

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he Guyana Mangrove Restoration Project (GMRP) has, since its inception, aimed to address the decline in mangrove-forested areas in Guyana. As such, a number of large-scale mangrove restoration projects have been completed. The Wellington Park Mangrove Restoration Project on the Corentyne Coast is one such project. The primary objective of this project is to seek commitment of the Guyanese people towards the protection and development of sustainable mangrove forests as an inexpensive form of sea defence.

Ecosystem services provided by Guyana’s mangroves The mangrove forests of Guyana provide numerous ecosystem services, including stabilisation of the Guyana shoreline; provision of a buffer from storm surges; sustenance of coastal fisheries; and as a habitat for marine birds and other wildlife.

Status of Guyana’s mangroves Despite its considerable value in terms of ecosystem services, Guyana’s mangrove cover has declined rapidly in recent years - from an estimated 91,000 hectares in 1980 to 22,632 hectares in 2011, representing a 75% reduction over a three-decade period. It should be noted that estimates of Guyana’s mangrove cover vary widely in the literature (Holowell 2009, Saenger et al. 1983, Snedaker 1986, Spalding et al. 1997), and work is underway to improve these estimates.

Major factors leading to the decline in Guyana’s mangrove cover are: * Direct conversion of mangrove areas for agriculture; * Aquaculture; * Infrastructure (eg canals, power lines, bridges and sea walls) and housing development; uncontrolled mangrove harvesting for firewood; * Production of burnt earth for road construction; and widespread grazing of livestock.

The future The GMRP has planted about 54,000 mangrove plants at Wellington Park. This area has been helping to stabilise the Guyana shoreline and provide a buffer from storm surges.

It is also important to recognise that the scale of the problems facing Guyana’s mangroves requires an integrated response from the Government of Guyana, of which mangrove restoration is just one component. What is also required is recognition of the anthropogenic stresses impacting Guyana’s coastal mangroves. The Wellington Park Mangrove Restoration Project is one of those projects that would help to stabilise the Guyana shoreline and provide a buffer from storm surges. It is important to remember that, according to the amended Forestry Act of 2010, mangroves are designated as protected species, and therefore it is illegal to destroy mangroves without prior permission from the Commissioner of Forests. In addition to this, the EPA also encourages and works with communities and the public at large to spread awareness on the importance of having intact mangrove ecosystems along our coast.

References Alleman LK, Hester MW (2011) Reproductive Ecology of Black Mangrove (Avicennia germinans) Along the Louisiana Coast: Propagule Production Cycles, Dispersal Limitations, and Establishment Elevations. Estuaries and Coasts 34:10681077.

Anthony EJ, Gardel A, Gratiot N, Proisy C, Allison MA, Dolique F, Fromard F (2010) The Amazon-influenced muddy coast of South America: A review of mud-bank–shoreline interactions. Earth-Science Reviews 103:99-121. https://nbslmegef.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/stateof-mangroves-in-guyana.pdf https://guyanachronicle.com/2012/03/29/gmrp-toplant-54000-mangrove-plants-at-wellington-park/ You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O ECEA Programme, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN, or email us at: eit.epaguyana@gmail.com.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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SUNDAY, MARCH 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Significant Young Professional homes to be taken up by women – Ali

…review needed to reduce challenges women face to access loans

The economic merits and importance of the debt ceiling increase

T

he budget debates have come to an end, and the budget was successfully passed in the National Assembly. Budget 2021 is generally well-received. The policies, initiatives, programmes and projects are, without doubt, designed to rebuild the economy and set the framework for a diversified and resilient, modern economy in the making.

During the budget debates, though, concerns were raised about the merits and/or de-merits of raising the debt ceiling. the Main Opposition MPs, in particular, are of the view that the imposition of the increased debt ceiling would be burdensome on the Guyanese tax payers. This view is, however, misinformed and divorced from context as well as the fiscal management track record of the current Government.

Today’s article discusses a theoretical perspective, drawing from empirical literature on the importance of debt financing for sustainable development and, more so, the importance of sustainable and prudent debt management in achieving the sustainable development goals.

Long-term quality investment for infrastructure

Investing in sustainable, resilient infrastructure - including transport, energy, water and sanitation - is a prerequisite for achieving the many Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In a report of the Inter-agency Task Force on financing for development (2017), it was highlighted that there is an infrastructure gap of between US$1 trillion and US$1.5 trillion annually in developing countries. Estimates of the global gap generally range from US$3 trillion to US$5 trillion annually.

Given the enormous investment needs, public, private, domestic and international investment and funding would be required. It should be noted, however, that private and public sources are not necessarily substitutable; each has its own incentive structures, goals and mandates.

In developing economies, three quarters of infrastructure is financed by the public sector (government, official development assistance, and development banks), while in developed countries, this pattern is reversed, with about two thirds of investment coming from the private sector.

The proportions of public and private investment across countries reflect different institutional frameworks, policies, and levels of development, as well as varying investment needs. In developed countries, for example, much infrastructure investment is in maintenance, rather than new greenfield investment. Different sectors also have different capital structures.

Debt and debt sustainability

Borrowing, both by governments and private entities, is an important tool for financing critical investments to achieve sustainable development, as well as for covering short-term imbalances between revenues and expenditure. Government borrowing can also allow fiscal policy to play counter-cyclical role over economic cycles.

However, high debt burdens can impede growth and sustainable development. As such, debt has to be prudently managed in both public and private spheres.

Developing countries made considerable progress in reducing their external debt in the early part of the century, assisted - especially in the case of the heavenly indebted poor countries - by the support of the international community. Yet, some developing countries are in debt distress, and several countries have external debt exposures that leave them vulnerable to debt difficulties from external shocks, such as falls in commodity prices, or natural disasters.

Additionally, some low-income countries are now accessing international capital markets, introducing new financing opportunities along with new risks, such as exposure to volatile international capital flows.

Developing countries have made significant progress in debt management over the last decade. Favourable liquidity conditions and debt relief initiatives have helped many countries to make their debt burdens manageable. In addition, various initiatives have focused on the reform of debt management practices and the development of domestic debt markets. It is important, however, for countries to continue deepening reforms that would help them maintain access to markets, and avoid repetition of past crisis situations.

Ultimately, each country’s capacity building needs in public debt management are different. To this end, their needs are shaped by capital market constraints they face, including exchange rate regime, the quality of their macroeconomic regulatory policies, the institutional capacity to design and implement reforms, the country’s credit standing, etc. Capacity building and technical assistance, therefore, must be carefully tailored to meet policy goals, taking into consideration the specific country’s inherent characteristics on these fronts.

TO BE CONTINUED…

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------About the Author: JC. Bhagwandin is the Chief Financial Advisor/Analyst of JB Consultancy & Associates, and lecturer at Texila American University. The views expressed are exclusively his own, and do not necessarily represent those of this newspaper and the institutions he represents. For comments, send to jbbankingadvice@gmail.com.

R

ecognising that more needs to be done to not only promote women’s interests but provide opportunities for them, President Dr Irfaan Ali has disclosed that a massive number of the Young Professional homes under Government’s housing drive will go towards female applicants.

According to President Ali, “I was very pleased recently when I learned that a significant percentage of the Young Professional homes will be taken up by females. And that tells a story that the message and the culture and the stereotype is changing to the extent that young women today see themselves as providing their own opportunities, owning their own homes. This is very important for empowerment, very important for the building of confidence.”

The Head of State made this revelation during his feature address at the launch of the WE LIFT – Women’s Empowerment Expo at the Arthur Chung

Conference Centre (ACCC) on Saturday. The two-day event was held ahead of Monday’s International Women’s Day. Ali posited that women have the potential to achieve anything and face any challenge, something which can be seen in all facets of society. As such, he noted that there should be daily reflections on the hard work that women around the world are tasked with doing, which they perform with admiration.

“I don’t have the capability to understand the level of challenges that a woman would go through in her life cycle… but women have in them the potential to do anything,” he posited.

The Head of State added that in his view, not only are women designed stronger than men but beyond the strength, they exhibit an “inner soul” which is transformational and essential in any society and in any country.

At the local level, the President explained that there are many women in key positions. He made mention of his

President Irfaan Ali

female Ministers, some of whom were at the venue and stated that Guyanese women are innovative, motivated and their resourcefulness is unmatched.

Further, Ali recognised that despite their drive, women are faced with many challenges that impede their efforts.

He referred to the challenges women have, especially single-parent mothers, in accessing loans and pointed out that not just the Government, but the Private Sector also needs to have renewed systems in place.

“[We have to look at] how challenging it is for women to access loans and how do we address that. If we are to motivate investment in a particular area, we have to build specific investment regime to motivate that investment whether it is tax incentives. Similarly, in order to break the cycle and make it easier [for women], we have to sit with the banking sector and we have to work on a plan in which we can develop an incentive regime that would make it easier and less complicated for women to get loans so that they can start their own businesses,” the Head of State asserted.

Moreover, he went on to highlight that women play an integral role in the family and are essential in the transformation of Guyana. He said that changing the country starts with changing homes and in every facet of that change, women will be involved.

President Ali added that with the empowerment of women in the family, a cycle of development would be created.

TURN TO PAGE 29

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SUNDAY, MARCH 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Sand barge slams into boat in Corentyne River …4 passengers forced to swim to shore

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our persons were forced to swim ashore on Saturday morning when a barge carrying sand slammed into the boat they were travelling in.

The incident occurred on the Corentyne River about four miles from Orealla.

Reports are that 45-yearold Gordon Herman, a farmer of Anora Point, Orealla, along with his father Kelvin Herman, 74, and two others were in a 22-foot boat being powered by a 15-hp engine when, according to the younger Herman, who was captain-

ing the boat, they spotted the barge heading towards them.

He said he started to signal his light toward the captain of the barge in an effort to alert him that he was approaching their boat but within minutes he said that he felt a hard impact on his

boat.

Fortunately, all four men were able to swim to shore with only minor injuries.

At the time, Herman was heading to Corriverton, which is located 50 miles from Orealla and the barge which is owned by a businessman

The partly submerged boat in the Corentyne River on Saturday morning of Springlands, Corriverton, was heading in the opposite direction. A report was made to the Police, who have since launched an investigation.

Barges go to Orealla to collect sand. Farmers and other residents travel to Corriverton to sell their agri-

cultural produce and to purchase needed supplies. Many of them are forced to travel only when the tide is moving in the direction they wish to go because their outboard engines do not have the power to go against the tide at an economical speed. (G4)

Thieves raid 3 Linden churches

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number of items have been reported missing from three Linden churches after thieves raided the places of worship between Tuesday and Saturday.

According to Police, Flourishing Place Apostolistic Ministry Jubilee Centre located at Richmond Hill, Mackenzie, Linden, was robbed of an amplifier valued at $40,000, an audio mixer valued at $30,000 and a gift set, which consisted of a cologne and watch.

Reports are that the church building was secured on Tuesday at about 20:45h with everything intact, however, on Saturday at about 09:10h, it was re-opened to facilitate preparations for service when it was discovered that the window and door situated on the eastern side of the building were opened and the items missing. A report was made to the Police who have since launched an investigation.

Additionally, a number of items were reported missing from the MacKenzie Baptist Church situated at Wismar Street, Mackenzie, Linden.

These include a keyboard power cord, valued $5000 and a bag of clothes, which included several pants and shirts.

The items were reported

missing between Friday and Saturday.

According to information, following choir practice on Friday the church was secured with everything intact at about 20:30h.

However, on Saturday at about 06:30h when the building was opened to facilitate cleaning, it was discovered that the window in the toilet area was removed and the items were missing. The western door to the back of the church was found opened.

A report was later made to Police.

The Prayer Worship Church located at Lot 6 Crabwood Street, Mackenzie, Linden, is the third place of worship to have reported stolen items, which occurred between Thursday and Saturday.

An amplifier valued at $30,000, two five-inch speaker boxes, each valued at $30,000 and six electrical fans were reported missing. Police said that at about 19:00h on Thursday, the premises were secured leaving everything intact, following a prayer meeting.

However, on Saturday at about 08:45h, the cleaner opened the building and discovered the items missing.

Police are investigating. (G13)

Chinese supermarket owner robbed

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39-year-old Chinese national and businessman was robbed in the wee hours of Saturday morning of $500,000 outside his business place.

Reports are that Awei Huo Die was about to enter his yard at the AWEI Supermarket at Vryheid Lust Public Road, East Coast Demerara (ECD), at about 02:00h when he noticed two men passing on the road.

The two men then pounced on the man and relieved him of $500,000 and a cellphone valued at $80,000 before making good their escape.

The Police were summoned after the incident, and checks were made for the suspects in the area but no one was arrested.

Some months ago, a Chinese national was shot when gunmen stormed the Egou Supermarket located at Melanie Public Road, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

Four bandits, three of whom were armed with guns, invaded the supermarket.

Police said the suspects managed to escape with $1.8 million, a Samsung S8 cellphone, a quantity of phone cards, and a Digital Video Recorder (DVR).

The proprietor, along with five employees who are Chinese nationals, were in the supermarket when one of the suspects entered and purchased an item. He then exited but returned with his accomplices.

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3 arrested during Police raids

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hree persons were taken into custody on Saturday after the Police in Region 4A (Georgetown to Agricola) conducted several cordon and search exercises throughout the division.

Police said the exercises were conducted on several mechanic shops, suspected drug houses and homes. Motorists and pedestrians were also searched during the exercises.

A total of eight motorcycles inclusive of XR, Trip, Honjue among others were seized. Ninety-two grams of cannabis were also found abandoned under Stabroek Market, all of which were lodged.

Those persons who were arrested were a 28-yearold construction worker of Guyhoc Park, who was arrested for being in possession of 105 grams of canna-

The narcotics that were found during the search

bis at Plum Park Sophia.

A 40-year-old broker of A Field Sophia was also taken into custody for possession of 5 grams of cannabis, a 28-year-old mechanic of Tucville was arrested for unlawful possession of motorcycles, and a 24-year-old unemployed male of C Field Sophia Squatting Area, who has pending charges for a

robbery under arms matter, was also arrested.

Several other detainees were profiled and sent away.

Investigations are ongoing.

Only two days ago two men who were implicated in several armed robberies were among five persons arrested during cordon and search operations in several areas in Georgetown.

During the operations, several drug blocks, houses, motor vehicles and persons were searched.

As a result, a 44-yearold clothes vendor of Kitty was arrested with 63 grams of cannabis. He is expected to be charged for trafficking narcotics.

In addition, a 20-year-old vendor of Rasville was also nabbed with 11.9 grams of ganja in his possession while a 40-year-old businessman of Charlestown was also arrested for narcotics possession.

Police have also arrested a 21-year-old and a 24-yearold of Sophia, Greater Georgetown, for armed rob-

The motorcycles that were seized

bery.

In addition, three motorcycles (CB1, Honda Wave and a 150 Suzuki), one ped-

al cycle and a quantity of tobacco leaves (flonto) were also seized during the operations.

26 NEWS

SUNDAY, MARCH 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

57-year-old man is Guyana’s 201st COVID-19 death …43 new cases recorded

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nother COVID-19 related death was recorded on Saturday, raising the country’s death toll to 201.

The latest fatality is a 57-year-old male from Region Four (DemeraraMahaica), who died while receiving care at a medical facility.

Meanwhile, the country also saw an increase of 43 new cases in one day raising the confirmed positives to 8772. These cases emerged after 674 persons were tested.

There are, however, 466 active cases: seven patients in the designated Intensive Care Unit, 40 persons in institutional isolation and 419 in home isolation. Another 11 are in institutional quarantine.

From the 4514 males and 4258 females that contracted the virus thus far, 8106 have completely recovered. Guyana has managed to test 69,745 people since the virus was detected locally.

there is still a small chance of getting the virus, it will be in a milder form. He said Guyana was fortunate to benefit from this tranche, as there is some scarcity now with China vaccinating its large population.

New cases

A breakdown showed that new cases were recorded in five administrative regions: 11 in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara); 25 in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica); two in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni); one in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and four in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

Guyanese have been asked continuously to follow the outlined national measures and curfew which were implemented by Government to curtail widespread infection.

On Friday, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony detailed that the medical teams were trained recently to administer the Sinopharm vaccines – which were recently delivered from the Chinese Government.

“Out of an abundance of caution, we went back

India COVID-19 donation

and trained our healthcare workers on how to administer this particular vaccine and we have to develop some information booklets that when someone come to get the vaccine, that they also receive the information booklet that explains

to them the vaccines, how it works, what are the possible side effects, who can get it, who cannot get it and things like that,” he indicated.

This weekend, the Ministry started rolling out the vaccines. With the

20,000 doses, Guyana will be able to immunise 10,000 persons – continuing with healthcare workers. Dr Anthony reminded that it is one of the effective vaccines developed and will prevent transmission.

He had added that while

Today, Guyana will receive a massive donation of 80,000 Oxford-Astrazeneca vaccines – this time from the Government of India.

The country is also awaiting 100,000 doses from the COVAX mechanism, also slated to arrive in March.

India has already donated 170,000 AstraZeneca vaccines to the Caribbean – 70,000 to Dominica and the remaining 100,000 to Barbados from which Guyana was given a portion. Guyana rolled out the administration of the COVID-19 vaccine to frontline workers two weeks ago, with some 2000 frontline healthcare workers being vaccinated. (G12)

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Govt mulls maternal and children’s hospital H

ealth Minister, Dr Frank Anthony has announced that Government is looking closely at a maternal and children’s hospital – which will offer specialised care to patients.

It was informed that talks have already started with bilateral agencies in order to establish this stateof-the-art facility here in Guyana. For 2021, authorities are seeking to brainstorm a design for the structure.

“This year, we’re looking at designing a maternal and children’s hospital. We have been in discussions with bilateral partners to be able to develop this particular facility and when it’s fully developed, the specialised programme like cardiac programmes and so forth would become part of the services that would be offered.”

These specialisations have been started at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) but will be transferred to specialised hospitals that will be developed.

The Minister made this announcement in light of plans to resuscitate the Pediatric Cardiology Programme. This initiative was used to treat over 100 infants until it was stopped.

Presently, over 130 children are waiting for surgery.

As part of the programme, a team of overseas doctors would visit at least once a year, working alongside local staffers to conduct the surgeries. Starting this year, the team has agreed to return to Guyana.

“We built capacity and we were able to do some amount of surgeries and that programme was stopped, which led to a backlog of patients and of course, if you have to do a surgery like this in America or Canada, it’s a very expensive surgery. It would between US$30,000-$50,000 per patient to do these surgeries…Over the last two years or so, we were only able to send maybe about five children.”

Dr Anthony said they are seeking to ensure that every child who needs cardiac surgery is afforded the opportunity to get it done locally at the GPHC. From the discussions thus far, it is not envisaged that the patients would have to stand any costs.

“We have, over the years, been able to work with a number of great doctors to be able to put this programme together and it was sad to see that it was dismantled. We’re now putting it back together because we

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony

see the tremendous benefits it would bring to these patients. Obviously, it’s saving their lives,” he added.

Last October, Dr Anthony had revealed that there is significant local and foreign interest from the Private Sector in constructing speciality hospitals in Guyana.

“In terms of speciality hospital, apart from maybe Government investing, there has also been a lot of interest from the Private Sector, locally and foreign, to invest in developing specialised services. So, we are very favourable to such investments,” the Minister had said.

When it comes to the remaining Indian line of credit that was converted from funding a speciality hospital to upgrading existing regional ones, Anthony said that discussions are ongoing. However, he was optimistic about seeing design works for the upgrades of the West Demerara, Suddie and Bartica Hospitals commencing next year.

At least one company, Cardiology Services Incorporated, headed by Guyanese Cardiologist Dr Mahendra Carpen, has publicly indicated its interest in building a speciality hospital in Guyana. However, the company was unwittingly vested with land under the former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/ AFC) Government by the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), while the Government was in a caretaker status. With the change of Government, the company has since said it would return the land to ensure there is a fair and transparent land allocation process. Dr Carpen had signalled his intent to work with the current Government to bring the speciality hospital to fruition.

At one point, the Government of Guyana was in the process of constructing a speciality hospital of its own at Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara. To

fund it, the former People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Administration secured a US$18 million line of credit (LOC) from the Indian Export-Import (EXIM) bank.

This hospital would have provided specialised services to Guyanese and eliminated the need for persons to travel overseas for expensive, lifesaving treatment. Back in 2012, the contract to construct the hospital was awarded to an India-based company, Surendra Engineering Corporation Limited. At the time, however, a competing Indian company named Fedders Lloyd Corporation had opposed the bid. After the former APNU/AFC Government entered office in 2015, it proceeded to hand the contract to Fedders Lloyd, which was subsequently blacklisted by the World Bank for unrelated procurement breaches. With that, the speciality hospital project hit its final snag.

28 NEWS

SUNDAY, MARCH 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Teen among 2 nabbed with ganja

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teenager has been arrested following the discovery of a quantity of marijuana at Cane View Avenue, South Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

Police said that on Friday they arrested two suspects, including a 17-year-old.

It was reported that Police acting on information went to the area and conducted a search on the two suspects, where the cannabis was found in their possession.

They were cautioned, arrested and placed into Police custody as investigations are ongoing.

Meanwhile, when the drug was weighed, it amounted to 133 grams.

Just recently a 14-yearold female was taken into Police custody following the discovery of more than five kilograms (11 pounds) of ganja at her West Ruimveldt, Georgetown residence.

It was reported that after being tipped off, the Police ranks went to the premises which were solely occupied by the teenager.

Shortly after the Police arrived, they were approached by a 26-year-old

The ganja that was found in the suspects' possession

female who purported to be the daughter of the owner of the property and the sister of the teenager who was taken into custody.

Police reports stated that upon their arrival at the premises, ranks gained entry into the house via a door that was left open.

As they entered the home, they observed the teenager on a bed and proceeded to conduct a search.

The illegal substance was reportedly found hidden in

a washing tub under the bed on which the teenager was lying.

As a result, the juvenile was questioned in the presence of her sister during which she stated that she lived at the home with her 41-year-old mother, who was out of town.

The juvenile was subsequently escorted to the East La Penitence Police Outpost, where the cannabis was weighed and amounted to 11.352 pounds. (G9)

Craig man chopped, beaten by bandits during home invasion

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Craig, East Bank Demerara man was confronted by armed bandits, in his home, who demanded cash and valuables.

Forty-five-year-old Eyon Campbell of Buzz Bee Dam, Craig, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was asleep at about 02:30h on Saturday morning when he heard footsteps in his bedroom.

The man told Police as he jumped out of bed, he was confronted by three armed bandits.

Police have since said that the victim, who lives alone, secured his home and retired to bed at about 21:00h.

Fearful for his life, Campbell immediately handed over his money, but the suspects demanded more cash even as the victim told them that he did not have more.

As a result, one of the armed assailants dealt the victim a chop to his head and several lashes about his body, causing him to receive injuries.

Campbell was relieved of $350,000; one DVD player; one 42-inch Sony television and one black Samsung J2 Core cell phone valued at $35,000.

The bandits further relieved the man of other valuables and made good their escapes via a northern door, from where they gained en-

try into the house.

After the bandits left, Campbell went to a private medical facility where he was treated for his injuries and subsequently reported the matter to the Golden Grove Police Station.

Ranks then visited his home.

Investigations are in progress.

Only a week ago, 40-yearold Ahilia Robertson and 38-year-old Yogita Balgobin of Mon Repos Railway Embankment, East Coast Demerara (ECD), were robbed by two armed men who invaded their home as they were about to retire to bed.

Police said Robertson had just locked her gate and as she walked towards her house, she observed two men, one armed with a gun and the other with a knife, walking towards her.

She told Police that the men held onto her and began demanding that she hand over the cash and jewellery. Fearful for her life, Robertson led the men to where she was keeping the valuables.

Robertson and Balgobin were relieved of two cell phones, one laptop, and one iPad. Following the robbery, one of the bandits hit Robertson to her neck before making good their escape in a waiting motor car. (G9)

NEWS

29

SUNDAY, MARCH 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

More illegal camps discovered in protected Iwokrama

An illegal shop in the buffer zone

T

he Iwokrama Protected Area has constantly been confronted with acts of illegal gold mining and recently, several new camps were uncovered during a monitoring exercise.

Over the past week, the workers joined the Corps of Wardens under the Natural Resources Ministry, Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, Guyana Forestry Commission and Guyana Police Force to carry out an enforcement exercise in the Iwokrama Forest and buffer zone area, along the Siparuni River. Illegal camps were found and destroyed.

“Yet again, several camps and a shop continued to be in breach of the law, being located within or near the one kilometer buffer zone area, on the other side of the Siparuni River, even though they were told repeatedly to remove from this zone by the regulatory agencies previously. On this occasion, these camps were removed with some assistance.”

In a statement, the agency said illegal mining incursions in the protected area has been an issue since 2019 but became measurably worst in 2020 during the COVID restriction period when their monitoring capacity reduced.

Sometime in September 2019, a miner was arrested for illegally mining in the Iwokrama Forest and the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) had indicated that this individual should be charged and brought before the court

under the Iwokrama Act. Fast-forward to October 2020, the inter-agency team found itself targeted by gunfire from miners who quickly scampered away into the forest during an impromptu surveillance exercise. One arrest was made and the son of a prominent businessman in the North Rupununi area is now before the court and this case is ongoing.

As a result of the constant challenges faced in keeping illegal miners out, the Centre has reminded the public and other stakeholders that these activities are not allowed in the Iwokrama Forest unless the Centre gives express written permission for any of these activities to be undertaken.

Specifically, Section Two of the Control of the Programme Site clause of the Iwokrama Act states: “Subject to Section 6 (1), and notwithstanding anything in any other written law - no mining, forestry or other resources utilisation activity shall be carried out on the Programme Site by any person other than the Centre, except with the prior written permission of the Centre.”

The document further states, “No lease of land or permission to use land in the Programme Site shall be issued by any person other than the Centre, and all activities on the Programme Site shall be in accordance with regulations prescribed therefor under this Act.” Section Three outlines the penalties, which clearly iden-

Significant Young Professional...

FROM PAGE 23

“We cannot change this country community by community unless we develop a family. Unless we sit as families.

We change the way families think. And when you combine that change you get community change, then you get national change. The value of more empowered families is important in advancement of women.

Also, stronger families are critical in supporting women,” he contended.

The Head of State further added that his intention is to promote more jobs which will benefit women, including call centres, which can earn additional income for housewives.

According to President Ali, he is happy to see a global trend of women getting more opportunities and accomplishing more than generations before. This, he said, is very important for empowerment and the building of confidence amongst women.

Despite this, however, the President still believes that more needs to be done.

“The new generation of women, many of whom we saw earlier, are starting at a far su-

perior level than those before them. They are starting on a far better platform, but they cannot relax. That is why I think from a Government perspective, from a societal perspective, we have to look at a national approach in which we mainstream issues and challenges of women into the policy framework of the country itself,” Ali posited.

The Head of State closed by stating that he was heartened with the drive of Guyanese females and their innovation on display.

“I congratulate you because of the great role you have played in the lives of every Guyanese. I congratulate you because of your commitment, your dedication, your patience, your love, your tolerance and your belief that you can be a positive influence and change in our country. Together, we can. Together, we will. I ask every single woman in this room, and across Guyana, to join with me in building One Guyana in which all of us can be proud to be part of,” President Ali stated.

tify that any person who contravenes the provisions of subsection (2) shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine of $100,000 or imprisonment for a period of one year, and where the offence is of a continuing nature, to a further fine not exceeding $25,000 for each day during which the offence continues after conviction.

Iwokrama and the Government of Guyana have expended enough time and resources on education and awareness with regard to these illegal activities, as such, Iwokrama Management is continuing its zero-tolerance approach to these activities, especially gold mining and other illegal activities.

“In keeping with the mandate of Iwokrama, the Centre’s monitoring team together with the regulatory institutions in Guyana, will increase monitoring and targeted enforcement activities within the environs of the Iwokrama Forest.

Further, the Centre will also be rigidly enforcing the prescribed penalties under the Iwokrama Act and other laws of Guyana to any person(s) found illegally operating in the Iwokrama Forest,” the Center positioned.

Meanwhile, a reward is still offered for any information leading to the arrest and successful prosecution of persons involved in illegal activities in the Iwokrama Forest. (G12)

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GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SUNDAY, MARCH 7, 2021

Will West Indies combat Sri Lanka spin attack in T20 decider?

A

Phil Simmons

fter the first two matches in this T20 series between Sri Lanka and the West Indies, being played at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua, the Sri Lankan spinners have taken 14 wickets among themselves. In the third and final T20, which is the series decider, set for today, Sunday

March 7, from 18:00h, combating the spin would be an area of focus for the West Indies.

On the eve of the match, West Indies Head Coach Phil Simmons has said his team would be aiming to reduce the number of dot balls and continue that good boundary rate. While the Sri Lanka spinners have been having a grand time in this series thus far, the West Indies spinners have taken only two wickets between themselves.

In addition to Kevin Sinclair and Fabian Allen, the other spinner in the squad is Akeal Hosein. When asked if Hosein would be added to the starting XI, Simmons said: “there is always thought, but it’s more how we negotiate and score runs against the Sri Lankan spinners. I think that is more important, because the bowlers have done an excellent job,” Simmons explained.

He added that key for the West Indies to combat the Sri Lankan spinners is their looking to score and play cricket in the positive West Indian way. The Head Coach praised the bowlers’ performances thus far in the two games, with Dwayne Bravo and Obed McCoy leading the way with three wickets each.

With captain Kieron

Pollard disclosing in a recent media conference that there is need for consistency in selection, Simmons has said that would be considered on a regular basis, and the selection panel will remain consistent.

This West Indies team is filled with power hitters, and the Head Coach does not see the need to assign an individual to anchor the innings in this format. He believes that everyone in the team has the ability to play that ‘anchor’ role if needed, and the players are aware of the need to take responsibility.

The T20 series is certainly an indifferent one for Chris Gayle, who is batting at number three for the first time in his International career, despite playing that role in recent franchise cricket.

“That is something we will discuss, but that is where he has done well for Punjab, so we are going to see and discuss and know what we will be doing,” Simmons has posited.

Sri Lanka have gotten off the mark, and they will be high on confidence, especially the spin group. The middle-order for the Sri Lankans will be aiming to come good in this final T20 in Antigua.

(Brandon Corlette)

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SUNDAY, MARCH 7, 2021

31

BCB 2019 Elizabeth Styles Under-21 final…

Junior Sinclair propels RHT Namilco Thunderbolt to crushing title win over Albion

Junior Sinclair en route to his 73 Story and Photos by Brandon Corlette

F

ormer Guyana Under-19 player Junior Sinclair recorded a great allround performance to lead the Rose Hall Town (RHT) Namilco Thunderbolt team to a sevenwicket win against Albion in the Berbice Cricket Board 2019 Elizabeth Styles Under-21 final match, played at the Area H ground in Rose Hall Town.

Sinclair struck a blistering 73, and claimed three wickets, being well supported by Berbice under-19 batsman Mahendra Gopilall, who struck an impressive unbeaten 50.

After heavy rainfall, Albion scored 159-7 in a match reduced

to 31 overs, while the RHT Namilco Thunderbolt team cruised to 160-3 in 23.4 overs.

Sukwah, February lead Albion charge Albion had earlier won the toss and elected to bat first. Jetindra Outar (07) and Reyad Karim (01) fell cheaply to pacers Sylus Tyndall and Kevlon Anderson.

Captain Adrian Sukwah and Sarwan Chaitnarine were at the crease when the showers came, and the score then was 18-2, made in 10.3 overs.

The players left the field at 10:50h, and play resumed at 13:55h, meaning that the match was reduced to 31 overs.

Former National youth

The winning RHT Namilco Thunderbolt Team

player Adrian Sukwah dropped anchor and rode his luck after he was dropped on 27 and 35 by Anderson.

After Chaitnarine (03) was stumped off the bowling of Junior Sinclair, Ramesh Kasinauth looked promising, but was dismissed for 10 by the impressive Sinclair.

After Sukwah dominated the 51-run stand with Kasinauth, Antonio February entered with the score at 85-4. The righthanded Sukwah eventually lost his wicket to Jonathan Rampersaud, when the score was at 93-5 in the 26th over. His well-constructed innings of 65 included six fours and one six.

The burly Antonio February slammed youth player

Local swimmers protest at Liliendaal

…GASA President denies involvement

A

Protesters holding placards on Saturday morning

number of local swimmers took advantage of the brilliant sunshine on Saturday morning to stage a protest calling for the reopening of the National Aquatic Center for the purpose of training.

The protest action by the swimmers comes after months of pent-up frustration at not being able to train and keep their bodies well oiled.

After the COVID-19 pandemic hit Guyana in March 2020, all local sport facilities were closed to the public and sports associations, out of fear of transmitting the virus.

However, in 2021, with a number of international events likely to go ahead, the local

swimmers are still being denied the opportunity to train, while their athletics counterparts from selected other sports are being able to do so.

As such, the swimmers and their parents took to the Aquatic Center, displaying placards with suggestions for the National COVID-19 Task Force.

In a strange twist of events, President of the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association (GASA), Dwayne Scott, denied knowledge of the protest.

Contacted via telephone by <<Guyana Times Sport>> on Saturday afternoon, Scott informed that the protest action was neither sanctioned nor planned by the GASA.

Scott explained that the executives recently had a sitdown in which no such action was discussed, and he, in his capacity as President of the Swimming Association, is still in discussion with the National COVID-19 Task Force on the way forward for the country’s swimmers.

To date, the only swimming athletes that are currently training in Guyana are Andre Fowler and Jamila Sanmoogan, who are both preparing for the South American Swimming Championships, slated to be held from March 14-29 in Argentina; and, hopefully, the Tokyo Olympics, which will run from July 23 to August 8.

Rampersaud all over the JC Chandisingh school, which is located on the southern end of the Area H ground.

Rampersaud had figures of 1-33 in four overs, and that was revised to 1-63 in five overs after his last over yielded 30 runs.

February scored a destructive 47, which included three spanking fours and two huge sixes. He was supported by Kelvin Umroa who hit 19, including one four and a solitary six, as Albion posted 1597 in 31 overs.

Sinclair ended with 3-37 in seven overs, while Rampersaud had forgettable figures of 2-63 in five overs. Keith Simpson had 1-23 in six, while Tyndall had 1-11

and Anderson claimed 1-12.

The Sinclair-Gopilall show In response, the RHT Namilco Thunderbolt team’s openers Sinclair and Lucas Arthur added 18 runs together. Arthur struck one to long-off and was run out for five, while the classy Anderson was also run out in suicidal fashion for 19, with Sinclair being the culprit in the miscommunication.

At 56-2, Mahendra Gopilall partnered Sinclair, and the duo found boundaries at will. The Albion players found it difficult to compete on the unfamiliar Area H outfield. Sinclair's playerof-the-match innings was

Mahendra Gopilall

decorated with seven fours and four maximums in his innings of 73, despite him being dropped on a tough chance on 60. He, however, was trapped in front by leggie Kasinauth at 139-3 in the 21st over.

After that 83-run partnership had ended, Gopilall continued to play his shots and saw the game to the end. Gopilall was unbeaten on 50, which included four boundaries and two sixes.

Rampersaud was unbeaten on 10, sealing the match.

RHT received the winner’s trophy and a cheque worth $100,000, while Albion had to settle for the runners-up trophy and a $50,000 cheque.

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

SUNDAY, MARCH 7, 2021

guyanatimesgy.com

Regal book spots in Legends, Masters and Open finals – Parika Legends, Wellman Masters, Speedboat also book spots

Part of the semifinal action in the Open category

By Timothy Jaikarran

I

t all came down to the highly anticipated semifinals in the GSCL Inc President’s T20 Cup Softball tournament, as many teams battled for glory to stake their claim at the coveted place in the grand finale, set for today at the Everest Cricket Ground.

The Legends, Masters and Open categories were all contested. From this, booking their spot in the finals of the Legends category were Regal Legends and Parika Legends.

In the Masters category, Regal Masters and Wellman Masters have booked their spots; and in the Open Category, Regal All Stars and Speedboat have booked their spots.

In the second semifinal, Parika Legends crushed Wellman Masters. Parika scored 192 all out in 19.5 overs, with Ramesh Narine (94), Romeo Malone (62) and Uniss Yusuf (19) being the top-scorers. Imtiaz Mohamed and Lester Thom each took 3/31.

In reply, Wellman Legends ended on 186-7. Leading the charge were Lloyd Ruplall with 33, Nandram Samlall with 25, Gopaul Deen with 26 and Sahadeo Budhu with 22. Uniss Yusuf took 2-15, Ramesh Narine took 2-25, and Romeo Malone took 3-30. these chief wickettakers handed Parika the match by 6 runs.

In the Masters category, Regal Masters took control against Ariel Masters and stormed to

Part of the semifinal action in the Masters category

Danny Thomas picked up 3/25.

Fisherman Masters in the end could afford only 144 all out in 18.3 overs, with Dubraj Singh top scoring with 25. Anil Durga bagged 5/25.

In the Open category Semifinal, Regal All Stars defeated Venom All Stars in a thriller by 1 wicket. Regal ended

on 158-9 in 18 overs, with Rickey Sargent (42), Ravindra Ramnauth (28) and Sewchand Budhu (29) top scoring, while Sachin Persaud bagged 2/10.

In Venom All Stars’ first innings, they posted 157 for 8 (20 overs). Top-scoring were Akeem Vieira (31) and Dhanraj Singh (21) respectively. Ravindra Ramnauth

Part of the semifinal action in the Legends category

took 4/30 and Karamchand Persaud took 2/15 as the main wicket-takers.

In the final semifinal match, Speed Boat crushed Coss Cutters by 104 runs. Speedboat posted 240 for 5 in 18 overs. Leading the charge was Navin Singh with 105, Wazim Hussain with 43 and Vickash Dhaniram with 32.

Arif Samad took 2/38 and R Jairam took 2/54 as the only wicket-takers. In reply, Coss Cutters All Stars could score only 136 all out in 15.4 overs.

Top scoring were Ajay Persaud (36) and Travis Alphonso (24).

Bagging wickets were Safraz Hussain (2/12) and Mark Harold (2/22).

AAG holds second outing of the year today

Part of the semifinal action in the Legends category

In the Legends category, Regal Legends made light work of President’s XI, ending their innings on 106-1 (15.1 overs), with Mahesh Chunilall and Eion Abel top scoring with 52* and 37 respectively. Bryan Singh was the only wicket-taker, with 1/5.

President’s XI, in their first innings, made 103-4. Top scoring was Peter Persaud (33), Dhamendra Mohabir (17) and Tony Fernandes (16). Laurie Singh bagged 2/21, while Parsram Persaud and David Harper bagged 1/11 and 1/20 respectively as President’s XI won by 9 wickets.

victory by 9 wickets. Regal ended on 83-1 (7.4 overs), with Chien Gittens top scoring with 61*.

Arjune Deroop bagged 1/14.

In Ariel Masters’ first innings, they posted 82 all out 18.4 overs. Samuel Kingston could barely scrape 27, as Mohammed Ayume (4/24) and Roy Persaud (2/14) were the chief destroyers.

In the other Masters semifinal, Wellman Masters defeated Fisherman Masters by 37 runs. Wellman Masters posted 181 for 7 (20 overs), being led in the charge by Rawl Reid’s 65 and Greg De Franca’s 43.

Leslain Baird loading up for a throw

A

slew of Olympic hopefuls will hit the track today for the second time this year as they compete in the Athletics Association of Guyana’s (AAG’s) developmental meet.

This is the second event the AAG has been able to host this year, initially scheduled events being postponed owing to the need for approval from the National COVID-19 Task Force.

The first meet, which was hosted since February 14, saw a number of impressive season-opening performances from the nation’s athletes.

Emmanuel Archibald completing a leap

In focus today will be 100M and long jump maestro Emmanuel Archibald, who clocked 10.21s and 8.10M in the respective events in February.

According to the World Athletics website, Archibald currently leads the long jump this year, and has the fourth fastest sprint time internationally.

Another athlete to watch is Leslain Baird, who is keen on qualifying for the Tokyo Olympics. Baird’s best javelin throw in the last meet was 77.23M. and while it was better than he expected for his season opener, he would have to

touch 85M to secure a spot in the JulyAugust event in Tokyo.

Outside of these Olympic hopefuls, the developmental meet also gives the younger crop of athletes the opportunity to strut their stuff, with qualification for the World Juniors U20 championships, being hosted in Kenya this year, on the line.

According to the AGG, the same strict COVID-19 protocols would be in place, and no spectator would be allowed in the Leonora Track and Field Facility.

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